Group Meetings Research Articles

Relations among the trifurcated narcissism domains at trait and state level: Two of a kind?

This study explored narcissistic states using a hierarchical, trifurcated structure, examining state variability and trait-state associations of agentic extraversion, self-centered antagonism, and narcissistic neuroticism. The primary objective was to investigate whether the structural composition of narcissism, well-established in trait data, could be replicated in state data. We examined this structure at both between- and within-person levels in state data, including situation-specific structures of narcissism. The study used data from an experimental study where participants ( N = 189) met in groups of up to four people weekly over six weeks. Multilevel confirmatory factor analyses revealed that the narcissism structure was largely the same at both levels. However, within-person compositions of narcissism differed across affiliative versus controversial situations. In affiliative contexts, grandiosity manifested exclusively through agentic extraversion, with no expression through self-centered antagonism. In controversial settings, agentic extraversion and narcissistic neuroticism exhibited a slight negative association, contrasting the positive association observed across all group meetings. Our results show that narcissistic states exhibited less variability compared to the Big Five and rarely varied above their corresponding trait levels. This research contributes to a refined understanding of narcissism, highlighting the interplay between trait tendencies and situational factors in shaping narcissistic state expressions.

Assessing the Feasibility and Acceptability of Virtual Reality for Remote Group-Mediated Physical Activity in Older Adults: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Physical inactivity represents a major health concern for older adults. Most social, at-home physical activity (PA) interventions use videoconference, email, or telephone communication for program delivery. However, evidence suggests that these platforms may hinder the social connection experienced by users. Recent advancements in virtual reality (VR) suggest that it may be a rich platform for social, at-home interventions because it offers legitimate options for intervention delivery and PA. Objective This pilot study aims to determine the feasibility and acceptability of VR compared to videoconference as a medium for remote group-mediated behavioral intervention for older adults. The information generated from this investigation will inform the use of VR as a medium for intervention delivery. Methods Nine low-active older adults (mean age 66.8, SD 4.8 y) were randomized to a 4-week home-based, group-mediated PA intervention delivered via VR or videoconference. Feasibility (ie, the total number of sessions attended and the number of VR accesses outside of scheduled meetings) and acceptability (ie, the number of participants reporting high levels of nausea, program evaluations using Likert-style prompts with responses ranging from –5=very difficult or disconnected to 5=very easy or connected, and participant feedback on immersion and social connection) are illustrated via descriptive statistics and quotes from open-ended responses. Results None of the participants experienced severe VR-related sickness before randomization, with a low average sickness rating of 1.6 (SD 1.6) out of 27 points. Attendance rates for group meetings were 98% (59/60) and 96% (46/48) for the VR and videoconference groups, respectively. Outside of scheduled meeting times, participants reported a median of 5.5 (IQR 5.3-5.8, range 0-27) VR accesses throughout the entire intervention. Program evaluations suggested that participants felt personally connected to their peers (VR group: median 3.0, IQR 2.5-3.5; videoconference group: median 3.0, IQR 2.7-3.3), found that goals were easy to accomplish (VR group: median 3.0, IQR 2.8-3.3; videoconference group: median 3.0, IQR 2.6-3.4), and had ease in finding PA options (VR group: median 4.0, IQR 3.5-4.3; videoconference group: median 2.0, IQR 1.6-2.4) and engaging in meaningful dialogue with peers (VR group: median 4.0, IQR 4.0-4.0; videoconference group: median 3.5, IQR 3.3-3.8). Open-ended responses regarding VR use indicated increased immersion experiences and intrinsic motivation for PA. Conclusions These findings suggest that VR may be a useful medium for social PA programming in older adults, given it was found to be feasible and acceptable in this sample. Importantly, all participants indicated low levels of VR-related sickness before randomization, and both groups demonstrated very high attendance at meetings with their groups and behavioral coaches, which is promising for using VR and videoconference in future interventions. Modifications for future iterations of similar interventions are provided. Further work using larger samples and longer follow-up durations is needed. Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04756245; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04756245

A STUDY TO COMPARE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SPINAL MOBILIZATION WITH ARM MOVEMENT VERSUS NEURAL TISSUE MOBILIZATION ALONG WITH MUSLE ENERGY TECHNIQUE AMONG CERVICAL RADICULOPATHY PATIENTS

Background: Cervical Radiculopathy is a disease of the cervical spine and a space occupying lesion that occurs because of pathological problems with cervical nerve roots. It usually causes the pain in the neck ,radiating to one arm with reduced motor function and reflex changes in the affected nerve root and commonly affect the middle aged to elderly person. Objective: A study to compare the effectiveness of spinal mobilization with arm movement versus neural tissue mobilization along with muscle energy technique among cervical radiculopathy patients. Method: Comparative study, 30 patients were selected from Sri Venkateshwara group of institution. They were allocated into two groups, group A(n=15) spinal mobilization with arm movement along with MET, group B (n= 15) neural tissue mobilization with MET given for 3 days per week for 6 weeks, the outcome measures NPRS and goniometric measurement were used. Result: Data analysis was done by paired ‘t’ test for within the group and unpaired ‘t’ test for between the group analysis respectively. The statistical analysis shows that the group A had significant improvement than group B. It has been concluded that group A showed reduction in the pain and improvement in ROM than group B. Conclusion: This study concludes that spinal mobilization with arm movement along with MET for group A shows more significant in reducing the pain and improve ROM among cervical radiculopathy patients than neural tissue mobilization with MET in group B.

Behavioural and neuronal substrates of serious game-based computerised cognitive training in cognitive decline: randomised controlled trial.

Investigations of computerised cognitive training (CCT) show heterogeneous results in slowing age-related cognitive decline. To comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of serious games-based CCT, integrating control conditions, neurophysiological and blood-based biomarkers, and subjective measures. In this bi-centric randomised controlled trial with parallel groups, 160 participants (mean age 71.3 years) with cognitive impairment ranging from subjective decline to mild cognitive impairment, were pseudo-randomised to three arms: an intervention group receiving CCT immediately, an active control (watching documentaries) and a waitlist condition, which both started the CCT intervention after the control period. Both active arms entailed a 3-month intervention period comprising a total of 60 at-home sessions (five per week) and weekly on-site group meetings. In the intervention group, this was followed by additional 6 months of CCT, with monthly booster sessions to assess long-term training effects. Behavioural and subjective changes were assessed in 3-month intervals. Biological effects were measured by amyloid blood markers and magnetic resonance imaging obtained before and after training. Adherence to the training protocol was consistently high across groups and time points (4.87 sessions per week). Domain-specific cognitive scores showed no significant interaction between groups and time points. Significant cognitive and subjective improvements were observed after long-term training. Voxel-based morphometry revealed no significant changes in grey matter volume following CCT, nor did amyloid levels moderate its effectiveness. Our study demonstrates no benefits of 3 months of CCT on cognitive or biological outcomes. However, positive effects were observed subjectively and after long-term CCT, warranting the inclusion of CCT in multicomponent interventions.

Abstracts of the 31st Annual Meeting of the Huntington Study Group®, November 7-9, 2024

Abstracts of the 31st Annual Meeting of the Huntington Study Group®, November 7-9, 2024

Community Forest Management and the Resilience of Karen Indigenous Knowledge in Northern Thailand.

This study investigates the resilience of indigenous knowledge in five Karen villages, located in Thailand's Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Lampang provinces, that have been recognized for best practices in community forest management (CFM). The CFM model was initiated by local communities to promote forest conservation and community engagement. Data on CFM practices, land-use rights, social networks, and indigenous knowledge were collected through 17 in-depth interviews and 5 focus group meetings. The findings include how these Karen communities have adopted payment for environmental services (PES) to fund conservation projects and social welfare. More specifically, PES generates social capital by facilitating coordination with stakeholders from the private sector, academia, and government. These social networks promote markets for local products and advocate for indigenous land-use rights. The PES model also serves as a tool whereby Indigenous Peoples can shape their identities as innovative forest guardians and legitimize their residence within the forest. Additionally, the study reports on how Karen people have diversified their livelihoods to include hosting academic tourism, handicrafts, and livestock, reducing their dependence on forest resources.

Group conflict and group harmony affect future female companion travel intentions: The mediating effect of female companion travel experience

When women travel together, the social identity of the members creates group harmony, but disagreements over travel arrangements create intragroup conflict. This study draws on the self-categorization theory to examine the impact of group conflict and group harmony on female companion travel experiences and future female companion travel intentions. The study used both qualitative and quantitative methods. Focus group meetings were performed to develop the scale to measure dictatorship as a source of creating group conflict during female companion travel. The results of the questionnaire survey indicated that group conflict and group harmony have an impact on female companion travel experiences, but only group conflict directly influences future female companion travel intentions, group harmony does not. Female companion travel experience mediates the effect of group conflict and group harmony on future female companion travel intentions. Recommendations for destinations and the tourism industry to improve female companion travel experiences are provided.

Bullying victimization in schools in the United Arab Emirates: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundDespite the implementation of antibullying policies, schools in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) witnessed an increase in bullying prevalence. The aim of our study was to assess bullying victimization in schools in the UAE, types of bullying, and factors and outcomes related to bullying behavior.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted in randomly selected private and public schools in Al Ain City. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from students in grades 6–8 (Ages 10–15). We adapted the US CDC ‘Bully Survey’ for cultural relevance in the UAE through feedback from focus group meetings with teachers. Data analysis, conducted using R software, involved stratified analysis by school type and utilized Chi-Squared and Fisher’s exact tests to identify factors associated with school bullying.ResultsThe study sample consisted of 723 students of whom 68% were males, and 58% were Emirati nationals. The overall prevalence of bullying victimization in schools was 37%, with 40% in private schools and 35% in public schools. Cyberbullying was more prevalent in private schools (37%). Physical bullying was reported by 20% and verbal bullying by 12%, with a higher prevalence of physical bullying in private schools (24%) and among males (23%). The study’s findings showed significant emotional and academic impacts of bullying, including feelings of sadness and learning difficulties, contributing to a rise in school absenteeism.ConclusionsThe study reveals widespread bullying victimization in UAE schools, mainly in classrooms, with group exclusion and verbal abuse as key forms. It underscores bullying’s psychological impact and the greater awareness of parents compared to teachers. The effective intervention strategies should not only involve students, teachers, and school staff, but also actively engage parents by fostering stronger communication channels between schools and families, and providing parents with resources and training to recognize and address bullying. These strategies should aim to create a cohesive network involving the entire school community, thus fostering a safer and more inclusive environment for students. The findings stress the need for inclusive antibullying programs involving the entire school community to foster a safer environment.

Analisis Kinerja Underwriter Dalam Menentukan Calon Peserta pada Produk Dana Pensiun: Studi Kasus Ajb Bumiputera 1912 Wilayah Medan

Insurance is a series of processes related to the supply of services needed by the community in quality. The magnitude of the influence of insurance on the sustainability of a company also makes the insurance process a good risk control. Without good handling, the impact on performance will be very large. This study uses qualitative research. Qualitative research is research that emphasizes the aspect of in-depth understanding of a problem rather than looking at the problem for generalization research. Underwriter performance assessment is carried out by the company leadership by considering the results of meetings of superiors, staff groups, committee decisions, field reviews and subordinates or colleagues. : a. Quality of work b. Work quantity c. Reliable d. Cooperative work Keywords: AJB Bumiputera 1912, Pension Fund and Underwriter

Acceptability and Scalability of a Meditation App Among Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus.

Background Adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) experience stress from general life stressors and diabetes-specific stressors. This stress manifests in a range of ways, such as mood swings, heightened frustration, strained familial relationships, and difficulties in T1DM self-management, which then leads to worse health outcomes. There is small to moderate evidence that frequent use of mental health applications (MHapps) improves mental and physical health outcomes. Meditation apps may help reduce some of the stress associated with living with T1DM. This study explores the acceptability and scalability of a self-guided, smartphone-based meditation app, the Healthy Minds Program (HMP) app, among adolescents with T1DM using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology. Methods Eight adolescents ages 15-19 were recruited from a pediatric clinic in a Midwestern state and introduced to the HMP app. After using the HMP app for one week, they were invited to participate in three successive focus group meetings. During the meetings, they shared their perspectives on the content, navigation, and acceptability of the HMP app and strategies to introduce and scale app utilization among adolescents with T1DM. Researchers conducted conventional content analysis using a hybrid coding approach. Data was managed and analyzed using NVivo 10 (Lumivero, Denver, Colorado, USA). Findings Participants believed that the HMP app has the potential to enhance their stress management, mood, and coping abilities when dealing with the challenges of T1DM management. They found the app enjoyable and easy to use but expressed concerns about time constraints as a potential barrier. To address this, they shared recommendations for facilitating app uptake and usage. Conclusions This study's results provide an in-depth understanding of how positively this subset of adolescents with T1DM viewed the HMP app. The participants also offered valuable suggestions that can promote the adoption and sustained use of MHapps by adolescents living with T1DM.

SARS-CoV-2 outbreak management in nursing homes in Ireland: reflections of COVID-19 response teams from earlier to later waves of the pandemic

BackgroundA review of key learnings from the response to the COVID-19 pandemic in nursing homes in Ireland can inform planning for future pandemics. This study describes barriers and facilitators contributing to COVID-19 outbreak management from the perspective of frontline teams.MethodsA qualitative study involving ten online focus group meetings was conducted. Data was collected between April and June 2023. The focus group discussions explored the views, perceptions and experiences of COVID-19 Response Team (CRT) members, clinical/public health experts who worked with them, and care professionals who worked in frontline managerial roles during the pandemic. All nine Community Healthcare Organisations and six Public Health Areas in Ireland were represented. Inductive reflexive thematic analysis was carried out using NVivo Pro 20.ResultsIn total, 54 staff members participated in focus group meetings. Five themes were developed from a thematic analysis that covered topics related to (1) infection prevention and control challenges and response to the pandemic, (2) social model of care and the built environment of nursing homes, (3) nursing home staffing, (4) leadership and staff practices, and (5) support and guidance received during the pandemic.ConclusionsThe response to the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a steep learning curve, internationally and in Ireland. Preparing better for future pandemics not only requires changes to infection control and outbreak response but also to the organisation and operation of nursing homes. There is a great need to strengthen the long-term care sector’s regulations and support around staffing levels, nursing home facilities, governance, use of technology, infection prevention and control, contingency planning, and maintaining collaborative relationships and strategic leadership. Key findings and recommendations from the Irish example can be used to improve the quality of care and service delivery at local, national, and policy levels and improve preparedness for future pandemics, in Ireland and internationally.

Focused on the Family: Development of a Family-Based Intervention Promoting the Transition to Adult Health Care for Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes

Background/Objectives: There is minimal evidence for current interventions promoting the transition to adult healthcare for youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Few interventions exclusively target modifiable individual and family-based factors that contribute to transition readiness. The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of Behavioral Family Systems Therapy for Diabetes Transition (BFST-DT), a virtual family-based transition readiness intervention for adolescents with T1D. Methods: The development of BFST-DT occurred in three phases. In phase 1, focus groups with adolescents and young adults with T1D, their caregivers, and pediatric and adult diabetes providers were conducted to assess perspectives on common family challenges surrounding diabetes management and the transition to adult healthcare. In phase 2, focus group data were used to create video vignettes to be used as part of the intervention. In phase 3, BFST-DT was created through the adaptation of a previous evidence-based family intervention for families of adolescents with T1D. Results: BFST-DT is a virtual, 6-month family-based intervention involving four multi-family group meetings and six individual family meetings. It targets the modifiable and reciprocal interactions among individual and family transition readiness factors. Conclusions: BFST-DT is the first family-focused intervention promoting transition readiness in adolescents with T1D and is currently being tested. Intervention development benefits from prioritization of engagement with patients, caregivers, and providers, as their perspectives are invaluable for creating interventions that are relevant and acceptable to communities.

Development of a risk-stratified shared decision-making tool for colorectal cancer screening

Abstract European guidelines stress the importance of informed decision-making in colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. However, tailored tools that facilitate decision-making for underserved people and general practitioners (GPs) in Flanders are lacking. This study aimed to develop a tailored shared decision-making (SDM) tool for CRC screening, specifically a video decision aid, using a co-creative process. The development involved two rounds of focus group discussions with underserved people and five local quality group meetings with GPs in various parts of Flanders, Belgium. Qualitative data were analyzed using a Modified-Grounded Theory Analytical (M-GTA) approach to identify key themes. Findings revealed four core themes. The first theme, ‘Recognizing the Barriers to Screening’, identifies challenges such as a lack of time, staff, and tools for GPs, as well as language and literacy barriers for underserved people. The second theme, ‘Learning from Existing Tools’, highlights successful elements like visuals and simple language and limitations such as low accessibility and poor navigation. The third theme, ‘Determining the Content and Design,’ reveals that GPs seek user-friendly tools for at-home viewing, while underserved people value personalized and clear information about CRC risk factors and screening costs. The final theme, ‘Identifying Strategies for Integration,’ stresses the importance of a structured, collaborative care approach for the successful integration of the tool. The proposed modifications for the SDM tool include enhancing its accessibility with multiple language options, using simple and relatable visuals, and providing personalized risk discussions for underserved people and GPs. Nonetheless, further testing is needed to confirm the effectiveness of the SDM tool in supporting preventive talks and informed decision-making in CRC screening among these target groups. Key messages • A structured, collaborative care approach is needed for successful SDM tool integration during preventive talks with underserved people. • Further testing is needed to confirm the tool’s effectiveness in supporting informed decision-making in CRC screening for underserved people.

Metoprolol use is associated with improved outcomes in patients with sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy: an analysis of the MIMIC-IV database

BackgroundMetoprolol is commonly administered to critically ill patients; however, its effect on mortality in patients with sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SICM) remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between metoprolol use and mortality in patients with SICM.MethodsAdults with SICM were identified from the MIMIC-IV database. The exposure of interest was metoprolol treatment. The outcomes assessed were 30-day mortality, 1-year mortality, and in-hospital mortality. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis evaluated the effect of metoprolol on these outcomes. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards and logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the correlation between metoprolol treatment and mortality in patients with SICM.Results1163 patients with SICM were identified, with 882 receiving metoprolol treatment (MET group) and 281 not receiving metoprolol treatment (NOMET group). Overall, the 30-day, 1-year, and in-hospital mortality rates were 10.2%, 18.2%, and 8.9%, respectively. Significant differences in mortality existed between the groups. Multivariable Cox analysis revealed that patients in the NOMET group had a higher risk of 1-year mortality (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 2.493; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.800–3.451; P < 0.001) and 30-day mortality (adjusted HR 4.280; 95%CI 2.760–6.637; P < 0.001). Metoprolol treatment was associated with lower in-hospital mortality (odds ratio [OR] 5.076; 95% CI 2.848–9.047; P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis supported these findings.ConclusionMetoprolol treatment is associated with reduced all-cause mortality in patients with SICM. Prospective studies are required to validate these findings.

The MINT Program: A Mixed-Method Approach to Identifying Nature-Based Resources to Promote Adolescent Parent Social and Psychological Well-Being.

Adolescent parents are at an increased risk for loneliness and mental health challenges compared to childless peers. Nature-based interventions are shown to promote social connectedness. To identify elements of a nature-based intervention to reduce loneliness and foster nature connection among pregnant and parenting adolescents. Sequential exploratory mixed methods. In 2020 and 2021, we piloted the 8-week MINT program at a school for pregnant and parenting teens. Our qualitative approach (n = 17) included online and in-person group meetings with nature-based educational content, discussion, park excursions, mindfulness activities, journaling and nature photography. Subsequently, we recruited 131 young mothers at a children's hospital for a cross-sectional survey based on qualitative school findings. Qualitative results from the school-based intervention showed a preference for meditative and contemplative activities and for spending time in nature with extended family. Participants typically accessed nature close to home. Our clinic-based teen parent survey illustrated that participants' access to nature were most limited by lack of time (25% of responses), company (18%) and energy (28%). While participants showed a close nature connection (mean NR-6 score = 3.9 (SD = 0.84)), they also showed moderate levels of loneliness (mean UCLA Loneliness score = 4.78 (SD = 1.60)). Walking, hiking and/or running were the most preferred nature activity. These findings provide key details to define nature-based activities to address loneliness and psychological well-being among teen mothers. Nature-based health interventions can address loneliness and nature disconnection by building community resilience, improving provider and patient well-being and motivating environmental stewardship. We identify key features of a nature-based intervention for adolescent mothers. These findings support teen mothers in the US and abroad and may serve as a foundation for using nature-based solutions for vulnerable mothers and for adolescents facing loneliness and mental health challenges. No patient or public contribution.

Characterizing Collegiate Recovery Programs in the US and Canada: A Survey of Program Directors.

Collegiate Recovery Programs (CRPs) play a vital and expanding role in supporting students in recovery from substance use disorders and behavioral addictions at higher education institutions. Despite their importance, there is a lack of comprehensive research characterizing CRPs, including their program directors and the nature and influence of their funding streams. A survey was administered to 70 CRP directors across the US and Canada. Directors reported on their CRPs across a variety of site physical features, policy and program offerings, and funding sources, with "sustainable" funding defined as two or more sources. CRP directors were predominantly non-Hispanic, White, and female, with representation from gender and sexual minorities. The highest concentration of directors responding were in the US states of North Carolina, California, and Texas. CRPs with more than one funding source served twice as many students and had significantly more space, drop-in facilities, and relapse management policies. CRP directors had positive perceptions of harm reduction principles. Additionally, results highlighted the robust availability of All Recovery meetings and the wide diversity of mutual-help group meetings offered within CRPs and directors' positive perceptions of these meetings. This research lays a foundation for enhancing CRPs within higher education settings, emphasizing the significance of sustained funding and an inclusive support framework for the program directors that run CRPs. Future studies should further explore the effectiveness of CRPs and their impacts on the schools and students they serve.

Lived experiences of South African bariatric patients during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study

Patients having bariatric surgery require comprehensive support both socially and professionally for successful surgery outcomes. With the outbreak of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), many bariatric patients were negatively impacted due to stay-at-home orders and social distancing practices. This study used a qualitative research design using a phenomenological approach to gain a better understanding of bariatric patients’ difficulties and lifestyle challenges between 3 months and 6 years after having bariatric surgery, and to determine the impact that COVID-19 had on patients’ daily lives. A sample of 17 adults were recruited from three hospitals in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. In-depth interviews were conducted with open-ended questions that allowed participants to express their feelings and describe their lived experiences during the pandemic. The interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. The research data were analysed using inductive content analysis. Most participants were women (88.2%) and married (64.7%). The study identified five main categories: (1) physical impact; (2) psychological impact; (3) social impact; (4) medical and follow-up care; and (5) financial impact. The study yielded results that were in support of existing COVID-19 bariatric surgery literature. Many participants in the study regained weight during the pandemic due to stress and the disruption of physical routines and healthy eating habits. Many experienced an increased anxiety of contracting the virus due to a compromised immune system. The need for professional support during this time was emphasised. All follow-up appointments were cancelled due to the pandemic. Virtual support groups were not favoured above in-person support groups. This research study concluded that bariatric patients regained weight due to the pandemic because of their healthy routines being disrupted. Bariatric patients are reliant on social and professional support for successful outcomes. In-person support group meetings are highly favoured amongst these patients.

Communication Apprehension and Coping Strategies of the English Language Learners: Basis for Interactive Activities Enrichment

Communication apprehension is an uneasiness experienced by all individuals, especially when speaking. Meanwhile, coping strategies are approaches people use in dealing with anxiety. This study determined the level of communication apprehension and coping strategies of the BSED-English major students of the College of Education (CED), Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Tampilisan Campus. The researchers used the descriptive survey method utilizing the survey-questionnaire checklists. The first instrument was adopted from McCroskey's (1981) cited in Diane (2015) Personal Report of Communication Apprehension 24 (PRCA-24). The other one is the validated researchers-made survey statements comprising 30-item statements categorized as strategies for overcoming communication apprehension in group discussions, meetings, interpersonal conversation, and public speaking, with a Cronbach's alpha value of &gt;0.70. The researchers also adopted McCroskey and Richmond's coding and scoring system, weighted mean, and frequency count. Results show that most of the English major students in JRMSU-TC have a moderate level of communication apprehension. Further, there is a difference in the level of communication apprehension when grouped according to group discussion, meetings, interpersonal communication, and public speaking, as well as in the overall weighted mean. Therefore, there is a difference in the level of communication apprehension of the BSED English major students when grouped according to year level. In terms of coping strategies, students used the following strategies: accepting cultural differences, paying attention when talking to others and considering their cultural views, thoroughly preparing before the speech, and thinking of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation as a reward. In this connection, there are proposed interactive activities that may help overcome the students' communication apprehension.

Effects of Methionine on Milk Performance and Milk Constituents of Lactating Donkeys.

This study investigated the effects of adding methionine (Met) in milk production and the milk and blood metabolites of lactating donkeys. Eighteen healthy multiparous donkeys in early-stage lactation were selected for this study. The donkeys were randomly divided into three groups and fed diets with different levels of Met: control group (C, Met 0 g/d), Met group I (M1, Met 5 g/d), and Met group II (M2, Met 15 g/d). The total duration of the experiment was 5 weeks. Donkey milk and blood samples were collected at the end of the experiment. The milk yield and composition, milk, and serum metabolites were analyzed. The results showed that the addition of 5 g of Met significantly increased milk yield as well as the milk composition contents of protein, fat, lactoferrin, polyunsaturated fatty acid (PFA), solids, and solids-not-fat (SNF) (p < 0.05). Significant differences in metabolites were detected among the different samples of milk (p < 0.05). The addition of Met increased the levels of milk metabolites, such as myristic acid, d-glutamine, l-aspartic acid, and LPS 16:0. A total of 753 metabolites were detected in the serum, including 17 differential metabolites between C and M1 and 48 differential metabolites between C and M2. The levels of serum metabolites, such as l-ascorbate, inositol, and l-lysine, were up-regulated by the addition of Met (p < 0.05). The above results indicated that Met increased donkey milk production and milk composition yield and improved milk metabolites by regulating serum metabolites. These results provide a foundation for improving the nutritional needs of lactating donkeys and the nutritional regulation of donkey milk synthesis.

The Role of Digital Technology in Social Interaction of Manembo-Nembo Village Community, Matuari District, Bitung City

The purpose of this study is to determine the role of digital technology in social interaction in the Manembo-Nembo Village, Matuari District, Bitung City using the technological determinism theory approach, believing that technology has a major influence on various aspects of human interaction, especially social and cultural life, as stated by Marshall McLuhan. Using qualitative methods based on observation and interviews by collecting data from purposive sampling, namely determining competent informants, namely 2 community informants, 2 government informants. The results of the study found that the role of digital technology in social interaction has changed according to current circumstances, such as digitalization, such as in families it is easier and faster to interact via digital media with relatives who are in different places, the quality of relationships is maintained by having direct meetings in family groups (arisan), then digital interaction with the community; the creation of virtual togetherness such as people celebrating happy moments virtually by sharing photos, videos, and stories, and sharing information about sad events experienced and becoming a means of digital marketing that can increase family economic income. Digital interaction with the government; in today's public services digitally, especially in the field of population data management (KTP, Family Card, Certificate management) has been done through applications and can be done anywhere, but if there are people who need help, the local government is ready to serve, in accordance with the policy of the Bitung city government to make the Kelurahan Hebat program (digitalization).