Faculty Of Sciences Research Articles

Inclusive Universities. Exploring the well-being of university students with special needs in Albania

Aim. The purpose of this study is to explore the issue of the inclusion of university students with special needs (USSN) in universities and their social well-being, based on the case of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Tirana in the Republic of Albania. Methods. The methodology used is based on the combination of secondary sources, with primary ones, provided through the interview of the academic and administrative staff, parents and students. Results. The study highlighted that in the Republic of Albania important positive steps have been taken in improving the legislation of Higher Education regarding the inclusion of UUUUSSN in universities. This has been successfully adapted to the Unaiversity Statute of the University of Tirana. Also, the study highlighted that even from the infrastructural aspect, some opportunities have been created for USSN in this faculty, but they are still insufficient. The lack of protocols and individual programmes for the treatment of USSN is a necessity. Regardless of these shortcomings and some people’s skepticism about the participation of USSN in university education, a friendly climate is created in this faculty, in function of the social well-being of USSN. Conclusions. As a conclusion, the adaptation of the philosophy of inclusion in concrete practices is met with numerous challenges. Regarding the creation of a friendly climate in function of the social welfare of USNS, the case of the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Tirana constitutes a positive model, which should be promoted.

I’m not half and half: navigating being a “both” in discipline-based education research

Introduction and methodsThrough years of conversations, three discipline-based education researchers used a duoethnographic process to interrogate their own discipline-based education research (DBER) identities. We present a description of how these individuals navigate being a “both,” gathered through reflections, discussions, and deeper research to explore perspectives of our professional identities and what we perceive those identities look like to our peers, supervisors, and trainees.ResultsOur own definitions and eventually realized identities as a “both” emerged through this research process. We envision that science faculty have multiple roles, demands, and identities; at the most basic level, they are “both” an educator and a researcher. In the unique case of discipline-based education research (i.e., scholars studying the teaching and learning of science often in science departments), some faculty find an overlap between complementary yet sometimes competing research agendas (i.e., biology research (BR) and discipline-based education research (DBER)), of which they do “both.”DiscussionThis article has two key contributions. First, it articulates this side-glancing process of our navigation of being a DBER “both,” leveraging each of our unique perspectives and the literature. Second, it represents how such an exploration may be useful to other interdisciplinary researchers in understanding and embracing all parts of their identities.

Development of Science Learning Modules with Computer-Based Test (CBT) Assessments to Train Critical Thinking Skills of Students at SMP Negeri 7 Bontang

This study aims to improve Modules for science subject with the Computer-Based Test Assessment in order to train students’ critical thinking on one of science topics which is human’s respiratory system using ADDIE model. This model of research is the development research level 3. The data were collected by involving expert’s validation, observation, test, and questionnaire. The results showed that: the module validity result in terms of module itself was 93.75% with a very valid category. The validity in terms of language and material were 88.77% and 99.54% respectively, while the results by the Computer-Based Test application were 97%. The module’s practical results assessed by questionnaires were 89.41% and it means this module is highly practical to be used. The results of the module’s efficacy in terms of normality, the n-gain of all classes in pre-test and post-test’s sig value > 0.05, therefore the data was distributed normally. The results of paired sample t-test indicate that there is a noticeable difference on the average of pre-test and post-test results in the experimental group. Hence, the science module with Computer-Based Test is effective to be utilized as learning materials that can increase students’ critical thinking skills at schools.

Представления россиян о финансово грамотном поведении как показатель сформированной финансовой культуры

The paper substantiates the relationship between financial literacy, financial culture and financial behavior, the concept of a sociological study of financial culture. The authors cite a number of studies that, to varying de-grees, show the cultural characteristics formed in Russian society in terms of personal finance management. Attention is drawn to the behavioral characteristics of Russians in such components of financial behavior as savings, investment, including savings and investment, consumer, payment, and credit. The article presents the results of a series of in-depth semi-structured interviews with 60 Russians representing various socio-demographic groups, conducted from November 2022 to January 2023 by the educational and scientific socio-logical laboratory of the Department of Sociology of the Faculty of Social Sciences and Mass Communications of the Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation.

Spiritual Growth and Stress Management of Physical Education Sport and Health Students

The purpose of this research was to identify the spiritual growth and stress management of Physical Education, Health and Recreation students. The method of this research was qualitative. The respondents to this study were students of the Physical Education, Health and Recreation study program at the Faculty of Sports and Health Sciences, Universitas Negeri Surabaya. The sampling technique used was quota sampling, which was determined by researchers to include as many as 170 students. The data collection technique was a survey with a questionnaire filled out online. The research instrument used was the Health Promoting Lifestyle Profile II instrument, which was adjusted to the characteristics of the activities of Physical Education, Health and Recreation students in the sub-questions about spiritual growth and stress management. The research data were processed descriptively and correlatively using Pearson Correlation analysis. The results of the Pearson Correlation test showed a significance value of. 000 < 0.05, so it was stated that the two variables were correlated. Spiritual growth and stress management, with a Pearson Correlation value of.728, have a degree of relationship with a strong correlation. The significance value of.728 is positive, indicating that the relationship between spiritual growth and stress management increases with the assumption that the higher the spiritual growth, the higher the stress management. The conclusion of this study is that the spiritual growth of Physical Education, Health and Recreation students has a positive correlation with stress management. This study contributes to providing recommendations for conducting stress management activities for students.

Generative Artificial Intelligence on Mobile Devices in the University Preparation of Future Teachers of Mathematics

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the field of education. The possibilities of AI in education range from providing intelligent tutoring to facilitating computational thinking, a key skill in an AI-based society. As education systems around the world adapt to technological advances, the need for teachers to develop AI skills becomes crucial. This paper explores the use of AI on mobile devices to improve the preparation of future mathematics teachers. We acknowledge the need for teachers to be skilled in the use of AI tools to foster collaborative, effective, and ethical learning environments. We also provide a case study of our implementation of the generative AI ChatGPT in the preparation of future mathematics teachers at the Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Computer Science at Comenius University in Bratislava. After this implementation, we analyzed students’ opinions on the application of AI in selected areas. We present the results of this analysis and the implications for the practical use of AI in the university education of future mathematics teachers. Finally, based on our study results, we highlight the possibilities of the successful use of AI in different aspects of teaching and its temporary limitations, which are likely to be reduced by further technological developments.

Faculty development for supervisors of medical student rural attachments in Zimbabwe.

Reflective writing and keeping portfolios during rural hospital attachments has been shown to give medical students more confidence, better communication skills and clinical competence, thereby making them stronger adult learners. The role of supervisors as facilitators of learning during Community-based Education rural site visits is critical. The University of Zimbabwe Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences established faculty development workshops to train supervisors to be better able to support students in becoming active learners and critical thinkers, giving them constructive feedback, and encouraging them to look for positive outcomes during their rural attachments. These educational skills were new to most supervisors, requiring a culture change from the usual didactic approaches. Educators had to learn about adult learning theories, the constructivist approach to knowledge creation, role-modelling and methods of assessment that were empowering for students. They were encouraged to form communities of practice through the faculty development process of training and assessment and to consider how to develop research and scholarship in documenting their experiences as facilitators and learning partners with their students and colleagues. These activities enhanced their professional identity formation as scholars, educators and facilitators. Their exposure to the functioning of rural hospitals, partly through narratives of the students' reflective writing, enabled them to develop a greater appreciation of the potential of primary care and the district health services as the foundation of the Zimbabwe health system. Future benefits could include application of this training to other health professional programmes, as part of interprofessional education.

Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Avocado (Persea americana Mill.) Seed on the Testis Histology (Mus musculus l.) Induced Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) is a substance that is able to produce free radicals such as ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species), which can cause oxidative stress in the body and damage reproductive organs such as the testes. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of avocado seed ethanol extract (Persea americana Mill.) on the histology of the testes of mice (Mus musculus L.) induced monosodium glutamate (MSG). This research is an experimental study that was conducted in October 2023 – January 2024 at Biology Laboratory, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Negeri Padang. The design used is a Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with 4 treatments and 6 repeats. The data obtained were analyzed using the ANOVA test (Analysis of variance) using the SPSS 23 application. The results showed that the administration of avocado seed ethanol extract showed a noticeable effect on the diameter of the testes of male mice exposed to MSG. However, it showed no noticeable influence on testicular weight, seminiferous tubule diameter and Leydig cell count. Ethanol extract avocado seed dose 0.84 mg /g body weight / day (P1) was able to improve the diameter of mice testes that had been induced MSGKeyword: Avocado seed extract, Histology of testis, Mice, MSG

The Role of Organizational Commitment in Mediating the Effect of Work-Family Conflict and Work Stress on Employee Performance (Study at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Udayana University)

Goal setting theory explains that a person's behavior is determined by values and goals. Goals set influence actual behavior, which is governed by ideas and intentions, thereby influencing actions and performance. Effective control of work-family conflict and work stress improves performance. Human Resource Management involves planning, organizing, implementing, and controlling human resources to achieve organizational goals efficiently. Work-family conflicts, such as heavy workloads and family responsibilities, and work stress reduce motivation and performance. Organizational commitment, including loyalty and work motivation, helps employees overcome conflict and stress and maintain good performance. The respondents in this research were employees at the Faculty of Cultural Sciences, Udayana University . The number of respondents in this study was 52 respondents using nonprobability techniques , namely saturated samples or often called total sampling. This research uses Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis from the Smart Pls program. The results of this study indicate that work-family conflict and work stress have a negative and significant effect on organizational commitment. Work-family conflict and work stress have a negative and significant effect on employee performance. Organizational commitment has a positive and significant effect on employee performance. Organizational commitment is not proven to play a mediating role in the indirect effect of work-family conflict on employee performance. The effect of the mediating role of organizational commitment on the indirect influence of work-family conflict on employee performance has a direct effect without going through the mediating role of organizational commitment. Organizational commitment has been proven to play a mediating role in the influence of work stress on employee performance. The effect of the mediating role of organizational commitment on the indirect influence of work stress on employee performance is partial complementary mediation.

Impact of ante-mortem fluoxetine administration on estimation of post-mortem interval and insect activity in rabbit carcasses

BackgroundIncreasing the number of drug-related deaths has affected medico-legal death investigations. Drugs within a corpse have a great impact on the insects’ development rate which in turn will affect the rate of post-mortem decomposition and the estimation of the post-mortem interval. This explains the importance of the application of forensic entomotoxicology, which studies the impact of drugs and toxins on the development and succession patterns of insects. The current study aimed to determine the impact of fluoxetine, one of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), on post-mortem decomposition, insects’ attraction, and its pattern of succession on carcasses. Sixteen healthy male and female Oryctolagus cuniculus rabbits were chosen to be included in this study. They were divided into a treated group of eight rabbits received oral fluoxetine for 28 days and a control group of eight rabbits received oral distilled water for 28 days. After oral administration of 10 mg/kg/day of fluoxetine and distilled water for 28 days, rabbits were sacrificed, and carcasses were transmitted to the roof of Research and Training Centre on Vectors of Diseases at faculty of Sciences, Ain Shams University, for following up the post-mortem decomposition process and insect’s attraction to carcasses for 60 days. Carcasses were put in two outdoor sites that differ in temperature to assess the effect of temperature on decomposition process.ResultsFluoxetine administration has accelerated the rate of post-mortem decomposition in the treated carcasses by 3–9 days compared to the control ones and affected the numbers and species of attracted insects, while it had no effect on the insects’ succession patterns. Exposure of carcasses to direct sunlight has accelerated the rate of decomposition in comparison to that of carcasses put in shade in the overall period of decomposition by about 14 to 16 days.ConclusionsFluoxetine has an important and effective role in post-mortem decomposition and estimation of post-mortem interval (PMI) and has a great impact on attracted insects to the treated carcasses. Temperature has a great effect on the rate of decomposition of carcasses. Higher temperature accelerates the rate of post-mortem decomposition.

Uji Aktivitas Antibakteri Ekstrak, Fraksi Air, Fraksi Etil Asetat, Fraksi n-Heksan Daun Petai Cina (Leucaena leucocephala) Terhadap Bakteri Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923

Shina, mai., 2024, test of antibacterial activity of extract, water fraction, ethyl acetate fraction, and n-hexane fraction of chinese petai leaf (leuncaena leucocephala) against staphylococcus aureus atcc 25923, thesis, faculty of health sciences, duta bangsa university, surakarta one of the traditional medicines that currently has the potential to be developed is the chinese petai plant (leucaena leucocephala). Chinese petai leaves are used by the people of indonesia as a remedy for new and swollen wounds. Staphylococcus aureus is a gram-positive coccus bacterium that is the main pathogen in humans. Almost everyone has experienced a wide variety of staphylococcus aureus infections during their lifetime, from severe food poisoning to minor skin infections. The methods used in this study are diffusion and dilution. The purpose of this study was to determine the antibacterial activity of water extracts and fractions, ethyl acetate fractions, and n-hexane fractions of chinese petai leaves (leuncaena leucocephala), to find the most active extracts and fractions based on their inhibitory zones, and to determine the khm and kbm of the most active extracts against staphylococcus aureus atcc 25923. Based on research conducted on ethanol extract, water fraction, ethyl acetate fraction, and n-hexane fraction of chinese petai leaves have antibacterial activity against staphylococcus aureus atcc 25923. The most active extract in inhibiting staphylococcus aures atcc 25923 judging from its inhibition zone value is ethanol extract. Ethanol extract of chinese petai leaves has the same khm and kbm values, namely at a concentration of 25%.

Transforming digital learning and assessment strategies in higher education

This study proposes a transformative approach to integrate modern technology and online assessments in higher education, emphasizing the shift from traditional methods to advanced-conceptualized digital platforms. It explores the potential of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and mobile applications to reshape education by offering scalability, real-time feedback, and personalized learning experiences. These technologies provide opportunities to create immersive learning environments and enable students to engage with content more interactively. Through a survey conducted with 367 sophomores from four faculties at Universitas Terbuka, digital readiness, challenges, and expectations were assessed. The survey results indicated a diverse range of digital proficiency among students, highlighting both strengths and areas needing improvement in digital skills. Preliminary findings indicate significant differences in digital readiness and expectations for interactive and flexible learning environments among faculties. Students from technology-oriented faculties exhibited higher readiness and adaptability to digital tools compared to those from humanities and social sciences faculties. The study underscores the need for targeted strategies to enhance digital competencies and support systems, ensuring equitable access to digital learning tools. Additionally, it identifies key barriers such as limited access to reliable internet and insufficient digital literacy training, which must be addressed to fully realize the benefits of online education. For instance, students reported difficulties in accessing advanced educational software due to limited bandwidth, which impacts the efficacy of online learning platforms. These insights provide practical recommendations for educators, developers, and policymakers to optimize digital learning experiences and address emerging educational challenges, setting the stage for future transformative practices in higher education. The findings advocate for a comprehensive institutional policy that promotes continuous digital skills development and infrastructure investment to support inclusive and innovative learning experiences.

Pengaruh Dosis Pupuk Nitrogen terhadap Produktifitas Hidroponik Fodder Jagung (Zea Mays)

This research is intended to identify the effects of nitrogen fertilizer on fresh production., dry material production (DM ), organic mater production ( OM ) crude pretein (CP) fodder mayze (zea mays). This research was carried out in the field lab of animal science departemen, Faculty of health and science, University Nusamara PGRI Kediri. research design in this study use a complete random design 4 treatment with 5 replicated. Treatment use concentration nitrogen fertilizer (T0 = 0 ml / l) ,( T1 =0.8 ml / l ), (T2 =1.6 ml / l ), (T3 =2.4 ml / l ). Studies show that different levels of nitrogen fertilizer can affacted to DM production (p < 0.01 ), OM production (p < 0.01 ) and CP production (p < 0.01) maize fodder (zea mays ).The conclusion of this study is that the use of different doses of nitrogen fertilizer has an effect on the production aspect of maize fodder (Zea mays )

Investigating Tertiary Education Students’ Self-Efficacy and Willingness towards Using Online Collaborative Tools for Learning in Kogi State Tertiary Institutions

Online Collaborative tools are computer software designed to help people involved in a common task achieve their goals. Descriptive survey design was used for the study. The study is aimed at Investigating Tertiary Education Students Self-Efficacy and Willingness towards using Online Collaborative Tools for Learning in Kogi State Tertiary Institutions The population of this study comprises all tertiary students of the five (5) selected tertiary institutions in Kogi State. The target population for this study was tertiary education students of the Faculty of Education, Sciences and Arts in selected Federal and State Tertiary institutions in Kogi state. A sample size of four hundred and eighty (480) respondents were sampled using Researchers’ Advisors Model (2006). The findings revealed that there is no significant difference in the opinions of respondents (students) on the available online collaborative tools for learning among tertiary education student in Kogi State Tertiary Institutions. This is because the computed probability is 0.701 which is higher that the p-value of 0.05 level of significance. In conclusion, it was suggested that, among other things that there should be available online collaborative tools for learning among tertiary education student in Kogi State Tertiary Institutions. The study further recommended that tertiary education students should be trained to use online collaborative tools for learning purposes in Kogi State Tertiary Institutions.

Mikania micrantha Kunth leaf Methanol Extract as Bioherbicide Againts The Growth of Amaranthus spinosus L. Weeds

The presence of weeds on plantation land causing a decrease in growth and productivity of cultivated plants. Thorny amaranth (Amaranthus spinosus L.) is broadleaf weeds that have high competitiveness. This study aims to determine the influence of the application of bitter vine (Mikania micrantha Kunth) leaf extracts against the growth of thorny amaranth and the best concentration that can inhibit the growth of thorny amaranth weed. This study has been carried out for October 2023 - March 2024 in the Biology Screen House and Chemistry Laboratory, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Tanjungpura University. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with four levels concentration treatment of bitter vine leaf extracts with five replications. The treatment consisted of bitter vine leaf extract with a concentration 0% (0g/ml) as a control, 15% (0,15 g/ml), 20% (0,2 g/ml) and 25% (0,25 g/ml). Data was analysed using Kruskal Wallis test followed by Mann-Whitney test. The results showed giving bitter vine leaf extracts can inhibited the growth of thorny amaranth weeds. Application of bitter vine leaf extract concentration 15% was the best treatment that can inhibited the growth of thorny amaranth on parameters weeds height (2,53 cm), number of leaves (2,65 strands), root length (1,74 cm), wet weight (0,13 grams) and dry weight (0,01 grams).

Analysis the Implementation of Independent Learning-Independent Campus Program based on Students’ Perceptions

Investigations of the independent learning-independent campus program still encounter obstacles in its implementation. This research is research that is motivated by the phenomenon of certain obstacles and problems faced by students when implementing independent learning-independent campus program in the mathematics department, FMIPA UNM, so it needs to be reviewed and carried out further analysis as material for further improvements. This research aims to explore student perceptions regarding the implementation of independent learning-independent campus program which is focused on the implementation of existing programs at independent learning-independent campus program which is implemented in the Mathematics Department of FMIPA UNM. This research is quantitative descriptive research using survey methods. The research was carried out at the Mathematics Education Study Program, Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, State University of Makassar. The sample in this study were students in semester IV and semester VI from the FMIPA mathematics department who were selected purposively based on research interests and needs, namely students who took part in the independent learning-independent campus program. Data was analyzed descriptively to see students' perceptions of the implementation of the independent learning-independent campus program. Research finds that students majoring in mathematics at FMIPA UNM responded well to the MBKM program, it can be seen that the majority of students were interested in joining the program.

Comparative Study of Bioactive Compounds of Several Varieties of Sembalun Garlic, Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara

Indonesia is known as a rich country in herbs, which are utilized as a source of natural herbal medicine, including garlic. This research aims to achieve a comparative study of the bioactive compounds retained in several varieties of Sembalun garlic. The research was conducted at the Integrated Laboratory of Mataram State Islamic University and Laboratory of Biology, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Nahdlatul Wathan Mataram. Three varieties of Sembalun Garlic were used in this research, namely the Nunggal, Jamak and Sanggah varieties, which were extracted using 96% ethanol. The research results show bioactive compounds in flavonoids, saponins, steroids and phenolics in the three varieties of Sembalun garlic (Nunggal, Jamak, and Sanggah).

Being old is like…: perceptions of aging among healthcare profession students

BackgroundThis research explores the perspectives and attitudes of university students in health sciences towards aging and older adults. Given the intricate interplay of factors influencing attitudes toward aging, coupled with the demographic shift in Turkey from a youthful to an aging population, the study aims to discern how a cohort of university students perceives the aging process.MethodsEmploying a mixed-methods research strategy, which enhances the depth of data interpretation, the study utilized a questionnaire for quantitative data collection. Additionally, qualitative insights were gathered through a metaphor stem-completion item appended to the questionnaire and semi-structured interviews with students. The participants were selected from the Health Sciences Faculty and School of Medicine at a Turkish university.ResultsThe study revealed that participating students generally hold positive attitudes and demonstrate respect towards older adults. However, they also associate old age with negative aspects such as loss of autonomy and a constant need for assistance. Furthermore, older individuals are perceived as emotionally challenging and challenging to work with, irrespective of the nature and duration of interactions during their academic programs. These findings suggest a potential pathologizing perspective towards aging adults among health science students, who are prospective health professionals.ConclusionsThis paper discusses the implications of the study and offers insights for program coordinators, curriculum designers, and faculty members in health sciences. The results underscore the necessity for a heightened emphasis on gerontology-related subjects within health science curricula. This emphasis is crucial for cultivating a comprehensive understanding among students of the social, psychological, cognitive, and biological changes associated with aging.

Hidden in plain sight: New partners for forensic nursing education

BackgroundBreaking disciplinary silos and increasing understanding for students has the potential to transform the future of healthcare, yet it can be challenging to develop interdisciplinary simulations. MethodsWhile integrating the AACN Essentials into a new course about forensics in the healthcare setting, innovative simulation design helped undergraduate nursing and pre-health track science students demonstrate specific sub-competencies. ResultsThe simulations resulted in self-reported increased student learning. ConclusionWith simulation-based experiences in both healthcare and chemistry lab settings, nursing faculty and students, science faculty and students interested in health sciences, public safety, and counseling services are ubiquitous to institutions of higher learning that house nursing programs and are all great partners in designing simulations in the interdisciplinary forensic science field.

Academic Dishonesty and Its Impact on Students’ Moral and Personality Development

Academic dishonesty is an illegal activity in which students are involved in different ways for the temporary benefit of ignoring other aspects of this illegal activity. One aspect of this activity enchants students to get temporary success in exams through unlawful activity. On the other hand, the second aspect is very terrible, which spoils all students' abilities. This study aims to highlight the effect of academic dishonesty on students' moral development and personality. This study was conducted at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad. Out of a total seven faculties faculty of social sciences was chosen purposively. A total of 105 students were selected randomly from the chosen faculty. The researcher collected data through a validated and pre-tested questionnaire. Collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The results of this study indicate that lack of confidence, Failure to explore ideas, and lack of hard work have adverse effects on students' personalities. Lack of discipline among students and low acceptance of students' opinions lowered students' moral development. This study suggested that academic dishonesty is minimized by using institutions' ethical, professional standards and building student confidence.