Effects Of Different Strategies Research Articles

Energy Transition and Poverty Alleviation in Light of Environmental and Economic Challenges: A Comparative Study in China and the European Union Region

This study aims to compare the effectiveness of renewable energy and circular economy practices in reducing environmental damage and poverty in China and the European Union (EU) by using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach and the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) technique. Analyzing data from 1995 to 2022, we compared the effectiveness of these approaches in both regions. This study offers several fresh perspectives on the fight against environmental damage and poverty, differentiating itself from existing research in a few key ways. In fact, most studies focus on a single region’s approach to sustainability. However, this research directly compares China and the European Union (EU), highlighting how factors like economic structure and development stages influence the effectiveness of renewable energy and circular economy practices. Also, this study shows how renewable energy and circular practices can simultaneously tackle both environmental damage (emissions) and social issues (poverty). Our findings reveal that factors like poverty, fossil fuel reliance, economic growth, and international trade all contribute to rising carbon emissions in both China and the EU, though their influence varies. Interestingly, China experienced greater success in curbing emissions through solar power, circular economy measures, and wind power compared to the EU. Additionally, the impact of these strategies on poverty reduction differed significantly between the two regions. Based on these results, we recommend that policy makers in both regions develop tailored strategies for tackling carbon emissions and poverty. Prioritizing renewable energy sources and circular practices is key, as they can simultaneously reduce emissions and alleviate poverty. However, it is crucial to focus on approaches that work best in each specific region, considering social, economic, and environmental factors. This study suggests that a one-size-fits-all approach will not work for fighting climate change and poverty. While renewable energy and circular economies are effective, China saw greater success with solar and wind power compared to the EU. Policy makers need to design strategies specific to their region’s economic, social, and environmental context. Further research can refine these approaches, and public education is crucial to promote sustainable behavior and empower policy makers. It is also needed to refine and improve the implementation of these strategies. Finally, public awareness and education are essential to promote sustainable behavior and empower policy makers in their fight against climate change and poverty. This study highlights the importance of a region-specific approach to energy transition and poverty alleviation. By comparing China and the EU, we gain valuable insights into the effectiveness of different strategies in tackling these interconnected challenges. The findings provide valuable guidance for policy makers looking to create a more sustainable and equitable future.

Efficacy of different strategies for reducing labor pain: A Bayesian analysis.

The effectiveness of different medical interventions in managing labor pain has yielded mixed results. Therefore, this systematic review and network meta-analysis aimed to provide a comprehensive summary of the available evidence on the impact of different strategies for reducing labor pain. We systematically searched 3 English databases (Pubmed, Embase and the Cochrane Library) from inception to January 2023. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or controlled clinical trials that investigating the effects of different strategies for reducing labor pain were included in this network meta-analysis. Risk of bias (ROB) was assessed using the Cochrane ROB tools. Network meta-analysis was performed using the R software (version 4.2.1) with gemtc package. A total of 9 studies involving 823 patients, including 9 treatments (acupressure, birth ball exercise, Bonapace method, distraction techniques, ice pressure, LI4 acupressure, lidocaine spray, smartphone-based music intervention and placebo). The surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) shows that Bonapace method ranked first (SUCRA, 79.5%), LI4 acupressure ranked second (SUCRA, 65.6%), distraction technique ranked third (SUCRA, 57.6%), birth ball exercise ranked fourth (SUCRA, 51.8%). According to the results of the network meta-analysis, among the different strategies examined, the Bonapace Method stands out as the most effective nonpharmacological intervention for reducing labor pain. The results of this meta-analysis can aid both patients and healthcare professionals in choosing the most effective techniques to reduce labor pain.

Evaluation of Early-Age Compressive Strength in Winter Prefabrication: A Comparative Study

In the field of prefabrication, the timely demolding of concrete elements is crucial to prevent structural failures during panel lifting. This study investigates the early-age compressive strength of different concrete mixtures by simulating various prefabrication plant scenarios. Special attention is given to winter conditions, where concrete hydration tends to be slower, potentially compromising the minimum compressive strength requirement of 10 MPa. The first scenario (reference), set at an ambient temperature of 20 °C with raw materials at room temperature, establishes the baseline for comparison. Two alternative dispositions are explored: Scenario 2, with an external temperature of 8 °C and the water for mixing at 35 °C, and Scenario 3, with the same external temperature but utilizing a heating hood to maintain the concrete at 35 °C. The experimental results shed light on the effectiveness of different strategies in achieving the desired early-age compressive strength under winter conditions. The use of warm mixing water and heating hoods are evaluated as potential measures to counteract the hydration slowdown. The findings contribute valuable insights for optimizing prefabrication processes in cold weather, ensuring the structural integrity of precast concrete elements.

Optimizing Crop Water Productivity in Greenhouse Pepper

Although advanced production systems have been developed in the last 20 years, water scarcity is still a growing problem in agriculture. This study aims to evaluate the effect of different strategies that combine the application of seaweed and microbial biostimulants with regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) strategies on the irrigation water productivity (WPI), fruit quality parameters and soil enzymatic activity in pepper plants (Capsicum annum sp.) under two commercial greenhouse conditions. In each trial, two treatments were applied: (i) irrigation according to Farmer criteria without biostimulant applications and (ii) a combined treatment of RDI and the same biostimulation program, composed of Bacillus paralicheniformis and Ascophillum nodosum extracts. RDI was applied in different phenological stages in each greenhouse after the establishment until the 1st harvest in trial 1 or during the ripening and harvest period in trial 2. On average, the irrigation was reduced by 600 m3 ha−1 compared to the Farmer irrigation schedule. In both trials, biostimulation promoted an increase in fruit numbers, punctually in trial 1, leading to yield precocity, or generally in trial 2, obtaining a higher yield. Globally, WPI was increased when RDI was combined with biostimulation. This combined treatment also enhanced the root water absorption and improved the soil enzymatic activity in both greenhouses, suggesting that nutrients in the soil would become more available to plants. Thus, the combined action of biostimulation under different RDI strategies has been proved to be a useful strategy to improve agricultural sustainability.

Evaluating mitigation strategies for building stocks against absolute climate targets

With the growing urgency of addressing climate change it is increasingly important that decision makers at all levels are equipped to take efficient mitigation actions. This research evaluates the potential of four mitigation strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the building stock based on a case study, and these are further evaluated in terms of alignment with the remaining global emission budget and the planetary boundary for global warming. The results cover annual emissions from 2023 to 2050 across 18 impact categories, thus highlighting possible impact burden-shifting that may occur as a result of the mitigation strategies. The results show that decarbonisation of the electricity grid delivers a substantial reduction across impact categories. However, in absolute terms, this is counteracted by the increase in building stock. The results also show that current estimates for mitigation potentials are insufficient to comply with the remaining global emission budget. Thus, mitigation strategies should be even more ambitious: constructing 80% fewer new buildings and reducing operational energy demand by 80%. These findings highlight the urgency of taking multiple actions. The increase in demand for new buildings needs to be challenged. Practice relevance Present urban mitigation strategies are inadequate for meeting the stated GHG targets. To enable informed decisions it is important to quantify the effects of different strategies. Traditional life cycle assessments have static inventories and impacts can therefore not be temporarily differentiated and transparency cannot be provided on long-term potentials. This study suggests combining material flow analysis and life cycle assessment to enable integration of dynamic parameters into the life cycle inventory. This shows how the long-term effectiveness of different mitigation strategies can be evaluated. To ensure unintended burden-shifting does not occur, results cover annual emissions from 2023 to 2050 across 18 impact categories. Furthermore, this study showcases how strategies can be designed to align with global commitments such as those set by the Paris Agreement.

Experimental and New Approaches for Bladder Preservation in Intermediate and High-Risk Non-Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer (NMIBC).

About 75% of bladder cancers are detected as non-muscle invasive. High-risk patients have high progression risk. Although the standard is transurethral resection of bladder tumor plus full dose intravesical BCG for one to 3 years, due to the high risk of progression, radical cystectomy may be considered in specific cases. Although radical cystectomy is still the best approach for high-grade NMIBC from an oncological perspective, its high morbidity and impact on quality of life motivate studies of new strategies that may reduce the need for cystectomy. We carried out a mini-review whose objectives were: 1 - to identify bladder-sparing alternatives that are being studied as possible treatment for patients with intermediate and high-risk NMIBC; 2 - understand the evidence that exists regarding success rate, follow-up, and side effects of different strategies. Several studies have sought alternatives for bladder preservation, including immunotherapy, intravesical chemotherapy, chemo-hyperthermia, antibody-drug conjugates, viral genetic therapy, and others with promising results. The selection of an optimal therapy for high-risk NMIBC that can reduce the need for cystectomy, with low toxicity and high efficacy, is of paramount importance and remains an issue, however, several known medications are being tested as bladder-preserving alternatives in this scenario and have shown promise in studies.

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Associated with Noninvasive Ventilation on Physical Capacity and Quality of Life in Post-COVID-19: A Randomized Controlled Double-Blinded Clinical Trial Protocol.

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) seems to be a better choice to improve physical and functional capacity after acute infection. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the effects of different strategies to optimize post-acute phase rehabilitation and reduce long COVID-19 physical deteriorations. To compare the use of a noninvasive ventilation (NIV) plus aerobic exercise strategy during PR program with to a standard PR (without NIV) on physical capacity and quality of life outcomes in post-COVID-19. Double-blinded randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 100 individuals discharged from hospital in a post-acute phase of severe COVID-19 will be randomized into two groups: PR + NIV (Group 1) and PR (Group 2). Inclusion criteria include participants who present symptomatic dyspnea II and III by the modified Medical Research Council, aged 18 years or older. Both groups will receive aerobic and resistance exercise, and inspiratory muscle training. However, group 1 will perform aerobic training with bilevel NIV. Cardiopulmonary exercise test will assess the O2 peak uptake, 6-minute walk test will assess the walking distance and short-form 36 will assess the quality of life before and after 8 weeks (after 24 PR sessions). Moreover, patients will be contacted by telephone every 3 months for one year to record possible adverse events, hospitalizations, and death. All data will be registered in RedCap, and analyses will be performed in the STATA v13 software. RBR-3t9pkzt.

The Impact of Excessive Smartphone Use on Social Health: A Literature Review

This paper reviews the literature on the impact of excessive smartphone use on social health. With the growing popularity of smartphones, there has been an increasing concern about the impact of excessive smartphone use on social health. This review examines the factors contributing to excessive smartphone use, the impact of excessive smartphone uses on social health, and strategies for managing smartphone use to promote healthy social relationships. The literature review highlights that excessive smartphone use can have negative effects on social health, such as social isolation, decreased face-to-face communication, and increased anxiety and depression. Factors contributing to excessive smartphone use include addiction, fear of missing out, and boredom. However, several strategies can be effective in managing smartphone use, such as setting boundaries, practising mindfulness, and engaging in alternative activities. The paper concludes with implications for future research, including the need for further studies to explore the long-term effects of excessive smartphone use on social health, the effectiveness of different strategies for managing smartphone use, the underlying mechanisms that contribute to excessive smartphone use, and the impact of social media platforms on social health. This review provides valuable insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers who are interested in understanding the impact of excessive smartphone use on social health and developing effective strategies for managing smartphone use to promote healthy social relationships.

Effect of different strategies for excluding duplicate cultures on the correlation between hospital resistance rates and antibiotic consumption.

Studies may underestimate the impact of antibiotics on bacterial resistance when correlating hospital antibiotic use with resistance rates (RRs) that exclude duplicate cultures as duplicates usually include more resistant isolates. Comparing correlations between antibiotic consumption and RRs resulting from different strategies for excluding duplicates could help explore how their exclusion affects such correlations. We obtained antibiotics consumption and Pseudomonas aeruginosa susceptibility data from 2017 to 2021 for seven antibiotics and for carbapenems as a group in a university hospital. We calculated RRs using seven different time criteria for excluding duplicates. We assessed the correlations of antibiotic consumption to the same-year and next-year RR rates for the three most distinct rates. Duplicate cultures represented 53.45% of total cultures. RRs were higher when duplicates were included. We compared RRs resulting from excluding all duplicates, excluding duplicates monthly or admitting one culture per day. All antibiotics except meropenem showed a correlation with same-year RRs, either positive or negative, whereas all antibiotics showed a positive correlation with next-year RRs. For same-year and next-year correlations, the criteria with fewer duplicates (and therefore fewer resistant strains) found more correlations. However, the inclusion of duplicates taken at least 1 month apart found the most correlations. Admitting one culture per day found the fewest correlations. Excluding duplicates from RRs affects the correlation of antibiotics consumption with RRs in P. aeruginosa. Including at least some duplicate cultures in correlation analyses, such as those taken 1 month apart, should be considered.

Personalised versus standard text message prompts for increasing trial participant response to telephone follow-up: an embedded randomised controlled retention trial

BackgroundImproving retention within randomised controlled trials is important. The effectiveness of different strategies can be assessed using a Study Within A Trial (SWAT). Previous research has shown personalised text message reminders improve clinic attendance rates; however, the results are mixed on improving postal questionnaire return. This SWAT aims to assess whether personalised text message reminders improve completion rates for scheduled telephone follow-ups.MethodsThis SWAT is a two-arm, multi-centre randomised controlled trial with equal allocation. The host trial was the Melatonin for Anxiety prior to General anaesthesia In Children trial (ISRCTN 18296119), where the child’s caregiver was to answer a scheduled telephone follow-up 14 days post-surgery; participants for the SWAT were therefore the caregiver. Text messages were sent 24–48 h before the scheduled call and the personalised version contained the first name of the caregiver which was omitted in the non-personalised version. The primary outcome was questionnaire completion rate, defined as the proportion of caregivers successfully contacted, and completed any of the questionnaires, over the telephone within the follow-up window (day 14 + 7 days).ResultsThe SWAT included 100 of the 110 (91%) participants randomised into the host trial. Randomisation within the SWAT was equal between non-personalised (n = 50) and personalised (n = 50) interventions. The overall questionnaire response rate was 73% with a difference between the two interventions of 68% in the non-personalised text message arm and 78% in the personalised text message arm. The adjusted absolute risk difference was 7.1% (95% confidence interval = −10.2%, 24.4%). There was no difference in either the time to response or the number of contact attempts between the two interventions.ConclusionsThere is some evidence that personalised text messages could be effective at increasing response rates when data is collected via telephone and in a population of caregivers for paediatric trial participants. However, similar SWATs have shown mixed results. Given the low-cost and low risks associated with personalising text message reminders, this SWAT could be implemented easily in other RCTs scheduling telephone follow-up appointments.Trial RegistrationISRCTN 18296119, SWAT 35 (MRC Northern Ireland Network for Trials Methodology Network).

Therapeutic Inertia in the Management of Type 2 Diabetes: A Narrative Review.

Adequate glycemic control is key to prevent morbi-mortality from type 2 diabetes (T2D). Despite the increasing availability of novel, effective, and safe medications for the treatment of T2D, and periodically updated guidelines on its management, the overall rate of glycemic goal attainment remains low (around 50%) and has not improved in the past decade. Therapeutic inertia (TI), defined as the failure to advance or de-intensify medical therapy when appropriate to do so, has been identified as a central contributor to the lack of progress in the rates of HbA1c goal attainment. The time to treatment intensification in patients not meeting glycemic goals has been estimated to be between 1 and 7years from the time HbA1c exceeded 7%, and often, even when an intervention is carried out, it proves insufficient to achieve glycemic goals, which led to the concept of intensification inertia. Therefore, finding strategies to overcome all forms of TI in the management of T2D is a fundamental initiative, likely to have an enormous impact in health outcomes for people with T2D. There are several factors that have been described in the literature leading to TI, including clinician-related, patient-related, and healthcare system-related factors, which are discussed in this review. Likewise, several interventions addressing TI had been tested, most of them proving limited efficacy. Within the most effective interventions, there appear to be two common factors. First, they involve a team-based effort, including nurses, pharmacists, and diabetes educators. Second, they were built upon a framework based on results of qualitative studies conducted in the same context where they were later implemented, as will be discussed in this article. Given the complex nature of TI, it is crucial to use a research method that allows for an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon. Most of the literature on TI is focused on quantitatively describing its consequences; unfortunately, however, not many study groups have undertaken qualitative studies to deeply investigate the drivers of TI in their diverse contexts. This is particularly true in the United States, where there is an abundance of publications exploring the effects of different strategies to overcome TI in type 2 diabetes, but a severe shortage of qualitative studies aiming to truly understand the phenomenon.

Exploring the Dark Side of Online Distance Learning: Cheating Behaviours, Contributing Factors, and Strategies to Enhance the Integrity of Online Assessment

AbstractThis study investigated cheating behaviours, contributing factors, and strategies to enhance the integrity of assessment in an online learning context. The researchers conducted an analysis of the literature on students’ motivation to cheat in online modules and noted that there is limited research on the specific reasons why students cheat in online learning contexts. To contribute to this knowledge gap, this study set out to understand cheating in two English modules with first-year second language students, in an open distance and e-learning institution in South Africa. The purpose of this study is (1) to investigate why students cheat in their online assessments, (2) to explore the contributing factors of cheating behaviours, and (3) to determine strategies to minimise cheating. Using qualitative methods such as focus group discussions with students, evaluation questions with markers, and one-on-one interviews with lecturers, the study found that cheating is a significant issue in distance education, with students admitting to various forms of cheating in online assessments. Using the social cognitive theory of moral disengagement, the study found that cognitive mechanisms motivate students to engage in unethical behaviour such as cheating. The study recommends implementing an interactive module design, lecturer training on student support, and stringent academic integrity policies to minimise cheating. There is a need for studies that explore the impact of cheating and the effectiveness of different strategies for minimising cheating and enhancing integrity in online assessment.

Strategic Management Practices in Dynamic Business Environments

This research delves into an exploration of strategic management practices within organizations operating in dynamically changing business environments. The primary objective is to provide insightful perspectives on how businesses adeptly navigate and adapt their strategies to not only endure but thrive amid swift and continuous changes. Employing a robust mixed-methods approach, the study integrates quantitative analysis derived from survey data with qualitative examination through case studies. The quantitative facet involves collecting and analyzing survey data from a diverse array of businesses in dynamic environments. This survey aims to quantify various strategic management practices, offering statistical insights into the prevalence and effectiveness of different strategies. Simultaneously, the qualitative component encompasses in-depth case studies conducted on select organizations. Through interviews, document scrutiny, and direct observation, this phase seeks to unravel nuanced insights into specific strategic practices responding to dynamic business conditions. Key findings from this dual-method approach shed light on the factors contributing to effective strategic management in dynamic contexts. The discussion emphasizes the significance of adaptability, innovation, and proactive planning in strategic management practices. These insights have practical implications, offering valuable guidance for practitioners engaged in strategic decision-making, helping businesses enhance their resilience and competitive positioning in dynamic environments. Furthermore, scholars can use this study as a foundation for further exploration and theoretical development in the field of strategic management. In conclusion, this research significantly contributes to understanding effective strategic management amid dynamic business environments, benefiting both practitioners and scholars.

확장된 블로토 대령 게임에서 최적 전략의 수학적 분석과 시각화

The Colonel Blotto Game is a game theory that can be applied to various social phenomena in reality, and prior research on various variations is also being conducted. This study attempted to build a strategy selection model using the concept of Quantal Response Equilibrium, an extension of the Nash Equilibrium, in the Colonel Blotto Game that assigned weights to each battlefield arrangement, identify the effectiveness of different strategies, and visualize the results. For this purpose, the rules and progression of the Colonel Blotto Game were mathematically defined and the optimal probabilistic strategy was analyzed. The results obtained using C++ were visualized and presented in two ways (a method based on troop deployment characteristic indicators and a method applying the PCA algorithm for dimensionality reduction). It was found that the smaller the model’s strategy selection volatility, the more dominant the equal distribution strategy is, and as the volatility increases, several characteristic strategies, including the equal distribution strategy, form a cyclical relationship.

The role of social media in the country's defense capability

The aim of the article. Analyzing the impact of social media on defense capability, the article aims to determine their role in ensuring information security, maintaining morale and using them in crisis situations. The results of the analyses. The results of the analyses reveal three key aspects of the role of social media in enhancing a country's defense capabilities. Fostering moral spirit and societal unity: the research underscores the significant role of social media in bolstering the moral spirit of the population and fostering societal unity. Through various mechanisms, these platforms have been found to positively influence public sentiment, creating a sense of collective identity and shared values. Ensuring information security via social media: an essential finding is the crucial contribution of social media to ensuring information security. The analyses indicate that these platforms serve as strategic instruments for disseminating accurate information, countering disinformation, and enhancing the overall cybersecurity posture of the nation. Using social media for crisis response: the research identifies the instrumental role of social media in effectively responding to crisis situations. By leveraging these platforms, authorities can promptly disseminate crucial information to the public, coordinate emergency responses, and mobilize support, showcasing the invaluable utility of social media in crisis management and response efforts. Conclusions and direction for further research. It was determined that social media are becoming not only a means of communication, but also a strategic tool for ensuring information security. The growth of threats and risks requires the development and implementation of new strategies to protect against cyber attacks, disinformation and other threats originating from social media. The research showed that the use of social media can effectively support the morale of the society and the unity of the nation. The formation of a positive image of the defense forces through these platforms affects the formation of patriotic attitudes and readiness to defend the country. The role of social media in crisis response is also extremely important. With the help of these platforms, it is possible to quickly inform the public and coordinate assistance in emergency situations. All of this indicates that social media are becoming not only a platform for communication, but also a strategic tool for strengthening the defense capabilities of countries in the new realities of global security. Further exploration in this domain could involve a detailed examination of specific case studies where social media played a pivotal role in shaping a country's defense narrative. Analyzing instances of successful utilization of social media platforms during crises and conflicts can provide valuable insights for policymakers and defense strategists. Additionally, investigating the potential vulnerabilities and risks associated with the extensive use of social media in defense contexts is crucial to develop robust frameworks that safeguard national security in an evolving digital landscape. Moreover, further research endeavors could involve a detailed examination of specific case studies where social media played a pivotal role in shaping a country's defense narrative. Analyzing instances of successful utilization of social media platforms during crises and conflicts can provide valuable insights for policymakers and defense strategists. Additionally, investigating the potential vulnerabilities and risks associated with the extensive use of social media in defense contexts is crucial to develop robust frameworks that safeguard national security in an evolving digital landscape. Furthermore, studying the effectiveness of different strategies in using social media for defense purposes, including analyzing public reactions to information disseminated on military social networks and platforms, could be a fruitful avenue for future research.

STRATEGIES FOR EFFECTIVE HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN THE AVIATION INDUSTRY: A CASE-BASED ANALYSIS

In the dynamic and rapidly evolving landscape of the aviation industry, the effective management of human resources plays a pivotal role in ensuring operational excellence, safety, and customer satisfaction. This study delves into the realm of human resource management within the aviation sector, focusing on the strategies that organizations employ to attract, develop, and retain a skilled workforce. Through an in-depth analysis of relevant case studies from various aviation organizations, this research aims to uncover the diverse approaches utilized to address the unique challenges and opportunities of human resource management in this industry. The study explores recruitment and training practices, leadership development, employee engagement initiatives, and the integration of cutting-edge technologies in the aviation context. By synthesizing insights from these cases and existing literature, the research provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of different strategies and their impact on operational performance and organizational success. The findings not only contribute to the academic discourse on human resource management but also offer practical implications for aviation industry professionals and policymakers striving to optimize human capital utilization in the pursuit of excellence.

Selecting methods for a modular EEG pre-processing pipeline: An objective comparison

Electroencephalography (EEG) to study brain functions has become fundamental in many research settings across very different protocols. Indeed, a plethora of processing methods have been developed, for both data preparation (pre-processing) and analysis. While an effect of the pre-processing on the signal is admitted and accepted, there is an increasing effort to better understand to which extent such an influence may affect the analysis results, and which may be the best practices for the correct data pre-processing.Pre-processing procedures include different steps, and each of them may induce modifications affecting the study results. Thus, we analyze the effect of different methodologies at each step and propose quantitative parameters for the choice of the preferable strategy.We illustrate how method selection may affect the quality of EEG signal in an Action Observation and Motor Imagery protocol, using quantitative indices. We analyzed the effect of different strategies for early-stage data preparation; two independent component analysis (ICA) algorithms (SOBI and Extended Infomax) used for artifact removal; and four re-reference approaches (Common averaged reference-CAR, robust-CAR, reference electrode standardization technique – REST, and reference electrode standardization and interpolation technique – RESIT). The effects of the different pipelines were also evaluated through the computation of event-related spectral perturbation (ERSP) of the sensorimotor rhythm. Results showed that signal segmentation significantly affects the cleaning procedure, while comparable results are obtained across ICA approaches. Finally, similar topographical representations were obtained after the application of CAR, REST, and RESIT re-referencing approaches, where rCAR showed the most different ERSP topographical pattern.

The Effects of Top-down and Bottom-up Cognitive Processes in Chinese EFL Learners’ Incidental Vocabulary Acquisition

This study analyzed the correlation between the incidental acquisition of vocabulary using different processing strategies during reading by 56 native Chinese-speaking students studying English at a university in China. Based on top-down and bottom-up cognitive processes, the study discussed the lexical processing strategies employed by the participants in analyzing unknown words. Based on introspective data collected during think-aloud and the subsequent vocabulary retention test results, the researcher explored the acquisition effects of different strategies. The results indicated that the bottom-up processing strategy showed better acquisition effects than the top-down strategy. Finally, the researcher discussed the reasons why Chinese college students performed better with the bottom-up cognitive approach in incidental vocabulary acquisition while reading, attempting to provide pedagogical implications for L2 vocabulary teaching in China.

Teaching English to Young Learners: A Literature Review

This study aimed to identify age-appropriate materials for teaching English to young students, explore engaging teaching methods that promote active participation and language acquisition, and investigate the importance of creating a supportive learning environment for young students. This research uses a library research method, which involves identifying and locating sources of factual information or personal or expert opinion on a research question. This method was chosen in this study because of its performance-enhancing properties. Therefore, this study requires strong theoretical and experimental evidence to support its argument. Research findings on age-appropriate English teaching materials for young students highlight the effectiveness of different strategies. Research highlights the importance of visual and interactive materials, storybooks, songs and hymns, games, and technology integration to engage younger students. These methods not only capture students' attention but also promote language skills, comprehension and vocabulary acquisition. In addition, establishing a positive and supportive atmosphere, clear expectations and routines, supportive teacher-student relationships, collaborative learning, and a safe communication environment are among them. elements necessary to promote optimal learning. The importance of creating positive teacher-student relationships cannot be overstated, as these relationships form the basis of a confident and nurturing classroom atmosphere. In addition, the study highlights the value of differentiated teaching methods that are tailored to young learners' diverse learning styles, language levels, and interests. By tailoring instruction to individual needs, teachers can ensure that all students feel respected and supported on their language learning journey.

Response- and probability-based evaluation of spectrally matched ground motion selection strategies for bi-directional dynamic analysis of low- to mid-rise RC buildings

In this study, the effect of different strategies which consider various levels of constraints for spectrally matched ground motion (GM) selection on seismic responses of the buildings was evaluated. For this, six different three-dimensional buildings and three different local soil classes were considered. Various GM record sets were used for each strategy and local soil class pair to perform bi-directional nonlinear dynamic analyses of the buildings and maximum global and maximum inter-story drift ratio demands were obtained. To evaluate the efficiency of proposed strategies, the mean and dispersion of the demands were investigated. Then, the differences among the means of the seismic demands obtained for the strategies were evaluated using the analysis of variance method. Moreover, probability curves of the demands were constructed and compared. The results indicate that i) the mean of the demands generally used for code-based performance assessment can be estimated more consistently by the proposed strategies; ii) the supplemental constraints about spectral matching allow to control the dispersion of the spectral acceleration values of selected GMs and hence the dispersion of the demands; iii) using the appropriate one of the proposed strategies, GMs with desired dispersion of spectral accelerations can be acquired for probability-based performance assessment.