Model Theory Research Articles

Persepsi Orang Tua dan Pengasuh terhadap Pemberian Imunisasi Rutin pada Balita Pasca Pandemi Covid-19

Immunization is an effective strategy of the government to reduce morbidity and mortality from Preventable Diseases by Immunization (PD3I). During the Covid-19 pandemic, this situation had a significant impact on the health sector, reducing immunization coverage rates. Currently, Indonesia is in the post-Covid-19 pandemic phase characterized by positive trends in pandemic control. This study aims to understand the perceptions of parents or caregivers regarding the provision of routine immunization to children in the post-Covid-19 pandemic era. The research method used a cross-sectional design with sampling using the quota sampling method, with a total of 100 respondents. Data were collected through a questionnaire adopting the health belief model theory to parents or caregivers who brought their children to the Posyandu for immunization. The results showed that perceptions of vulnerability (p value = 0,071), seriousness (p value = 0,121), and cues to action (p value = 0,731) had an insignificant effect on immunization for toddlers, while perceptions of benefits (p value = 0,008), barriers (p value = 0,000), and self-efficacy (p value = 0,000) had a significant effect on immunization for toddlers in the post-Covid-19 pandemic era (p value < 0.05). The components of the health belief model that form the perceptions of parents or caregivers towards immunization are interconnected, although not all are statistically significant. Therefore, perceptions of vulnerability, seriousness, and cues to action need to be improved to form a good perception of immunization after the Covid-19 pandemic

Development of a framework for community health workers to contribute to interprofessional learning teams

Background. Community health workers’ knowledge, skills and training seem to affect their contribution to 4th-year health sciences student teams who are following an interprofessional learning programme aimed at improving two South African rural communities’ health outcomes related to diabetes. Objective. To develop a framework for community health workers to contribute to interprofessional learning teams. Methods. The framework development forms part of previous phases of a multi-method study. The theory of change logic model guided the development of the draft framework, informed by data from two ecogram sessions, five nominal group technique discussions and a scoping review. The final framework was validated by experts during a workshop using forward and backward mapping. Results. The framework addresses the need for community health workers to gain knowledge, skills and training related to diabetes to effectively contribute to interprofessional learning teams. The theory of change process identified community needs and assets, desired results, influential factors, evidence-based strategies and assumptions required to address the problem. Conclusion. The framework focuses on a problem within specific interprofessional learning teams. Collaboration with stakeholders contributed to a rigorous research process, and the validation, refinement and future implementation of the framework. The framework eventually led to the development of an evidence-based training programme comprising knowledge, skills and training strategies related to diabetes. It is predicted that once community health workers have completed this training programme, they will be able to contribute effectively to the interprofessional learning teams.

Hybrid inflation, reheating and dark radiation in a IIB perturbative moduli stabilization scenario

We study the cosmological implications of an effective field theory model derived within a configuration of D7 brane stacks in the framework of type-IIB string theory. We consider a suitable geometric setup where the Kähler moduli fields are stabilized and the parametric space is constrained so that a de Sitter vacuum is ensured. In addition to the moduli fields we also take into account the usual Higgs and matter fields included in the effective field theory. In this background, we implement the standard hybrid inflation scenario with a singlet scalar field acting as the inflaton and the Higgs states serving as waterfall fields. Radiative corrections and soft supersymmetry breaking terms play an essential role in the realization of a successful inflationary scenario consistent with the present cosmological data. Small tensor-to-scalar ratio values are predicted, which can be probed in future planned experiments. Further constraints on the model’s parameters are derived from bounds on dark radiation which is measured as a contribution to the effective number of neutrino species Neff. In particular, we find an excess of ∆Neff ≤ 0.95 at 2σ confidence level with natural values of the involved couplings.

Enhancing mental well-being for parents through competence based curriculum implementation strategies in public day primary schools in Nairobi County, Kenya

The Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) focuses on developing learners' skills and competencies, ensuring a holistic approach to education. Active parental engagement in their children's education is essential, as it not only enhances the academic success of learners but also significantly contributes to the mental well-being of parents. This study aims to explore strategies that may enhance the mental well-being of parents during CBC implementation in public day schools primary in Nairobi County, Kenya. The study adopted a qualitative design and was grounded in the theory of the Epstein model and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. The target population comprised parents of children enrolled in public day primary schools in Nairobi County. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select a sample size of 12 participants, ensuring a representative distribution across different demographic profiles. Data was collected using in-depth interviews and subjected to thematic analysis. The findings revealed that enhancing parental support during CBC implementation requires a multifaceted approach involving workshops, accessible resources, effective communication, and collaboration from schools. Schools should provide training sessions and online materials to guide parents through the CBC framework while maintaining regular updates on curriculum changes. Additionally, parents' associations may foster community support groups and offer mental health resources, which can alleviate stress for parents. The study also emphasized the role of learners in supporting their parents through effective communication and encouraging independence, promoting a collaborative learning environment essential for the success of CBC.

Determining the lifetime distribution using fractional moments with maximum entropy

Here we propose a model-free, non-parametric method to solve an ill-posed inverse problem arising in several fields. It consists of determining a probability density of the lifetime, or the probability of survival of an individual, from the knowledge of the fractional moments of its probability distribution. The two problems are related, but they are different because of the natural normalization condition in each case. We provide a maximum entropy based approach to solve both problems. This problem provides a concrete framework to analyze an interesting problem in the theory of exponential models for probability densities. The central issue that comes up concerns the choice of the fractional moments and their number. We find that there are many possible choices that lead to solutions compatible with the data but in all of them, no more than four moments are necessary. The fact that a given data set can be accurately described by different exponential families poses a challenging problem for the model builder when attaching theoretical meaning to the resulting exponential density.

Analysis of the spatial variations in the adoption of solar energy technologies among households in rural and urban areas of Konoin sub-County, Kenya

Globally, the overall demand and cost of energy and particularly, for fossil fuels is on the rise due to increasing population and overall development process. The increasing use of fossil fuels has significant ramifications to the environment, such as increase in carbon emissions. There is need, therefore, to adopt the use of green energy technologies like solar energy so as to minimize the negative effects of fossil fuels on the environment. Despite these, there is paucity of information on factors influencing the spatial variations in the adoption of solar energy technologies among households in the study area, which this study sought to investigate. The study was informed by the Diffusion of Innovation theory and Technology Adoption Model. A a descriptive survey research design was employed. A stratified random sample of 387 households was surveyed and data collected analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression. The findings reveal significant spatial variations in solar energy adoption rates. Proximity to renewable energy sources and fluctuations in energy costs positively influenced adoption levels. Also, social factors, including: household size; and community support had a positive influence in adoption of solar energy. Further, economic considerations, such as perceived installation costs and anticipated long-term savings, played a significant role in influencing adoption levels. Moreover, geographic variables, particularly access to areas with abundant sunshine, significantly influenced adoption levels.

Anti-Aggressive Accounting Creative Pada Lembaga Perkreditan Desa Menuju Pembangunan Inklusif Berkelanjutan

This study aims to understand the meaning of aggressive accounting creative practices in Village Credit Institutions (LPD). This study involved four participants from LPD empowerment services and institutions, academics, and three LPD heads. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, followed by data triangulation (source, technique, and time) based on Miles and Huberman's interactive analysis. Interpretive analysis was used for data analysis. This study found the existence of aggressive creative accounting practices, which means maintaining stakeholder trust so that the level of health and risk of LPDs is maintained. New meaning of anti-aggressive creative accounting through digital transformation of reporting in the form of accrual income recognition and cash adjustments. Digital transformation is described through the technology acceptance model (TAM) theory, which can be explained using stakeholder theory and agency theory with the additional assumption of intentional human beings extending human local values. The research contribution is theoretically in the form of developing theoretical assumptions and practically to prevent aggressive accounting creativity so that sustainable inclusive development from villages towards Indonesia can be realized.

The Obligatory Roles and Responsibilities of Teachers on Learner Discipline, Case of Selected Schools in Nylstroom Circuit

Disciplinary measures and learner safety are critical components of effective teaching and learning. Lack of discipline has become a major problem in schools. The abolishment of corporal punishment led to an increase in violent incidents in schools. This study aims to provide educators with useful guidelines to help them understand their roles when instilling discipline in schools and to ensure learners have a clear understanding of the difference between discipline and corporal punishment. The study followed a qualitative research approach in exploring human elements and behavior. Interviews, observations, field notes, and questionnaires were used to collect data, with a case study design. The population consists of principals, disciplinary committee members, educators, and learners from three high schools. We used a purposive sampling method, selecting three members from each of the three schools. We used Skinner's behavioral theory model, which attempts to explain how repeated behavior with rewards alters bad behavior. We applied grounded theory, a method that employs inductive reasoning for data analysis. The study found that teachers, accustomed to the banned use of corporal punishment for discipline, find it challenging to adjust to new forms of discipline. The study revealed that parents find it difficult to accept the long-standing ban on corporal punishment and attempt to coerce teachers into applying it to their children. The study suggested educating learners about their mistakes and motivating them to avoid ill-discipline. Parents should instill morals and discipline in their children from a young age, as they model discipline and behavior at home.

Using ECHO program data to develop a brief measure of caregiver support and cognitive stimulation using the home observation for measurement of the environment-infant/toddler (HOME-IT).

Data from three NIH Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Program cohorts that collected the HOME-Infant-Toddler (HOME-IT age 0-3 years) version were used to examine the reliability of a brief scale of caregiver support and cognitive stimulation. Participants with HOME-IT data (N = 2518) were included in this analysis. Mean child age at HOME-IT assessment was 1.51 years, 48% of children were female, and 43% of children identified as Black. A four-stage analysis plan was used to evaluate item response theory assumptions, item response theory model fit, monotonicity, scalability, item fit, and differential item functioning. Results indicate the feasibility of developing a reliable 10-item scale (reliability >0.7) with particularly high precision for children with lower levels of cognitive stimulation.

A theoretical perspective on segmental relaxation dynamics of model dendrimer

The internal segmental diffusion and the relaxation modes are investigated, and the relationship between the topology of model dendrimers is established, all within the bounds of analytical and simulation approaches. The precise theoretical and simulation approaches are thoroughly described after sufficient data is provided for model theories and their predictions. The analytical framework of the Generalised Langevin Equation is exactly replicated in the results. The primary focus of this review is on the NMR technique for forecasting the occurrence of the prominent processes, such as bond pulsation, segment reorientation, and total dendrimer rotation, utilizing the relaxation spectrum at various time scales. The utilization of two autocorrelation functions, namely time and orientational, is given significant emphasis. These functions illustrate the mobility of branches and their dependence on the generation number. The text also includes discussions of the approximations, assumptions, and limitations of each author’s chosen technique, when relevant.

Comments on the paper "Quantum defect and Rydberg energy level calculations for 85Rb and 87Rb by Weakest Bound Electron Potential Model"

The manuscript highlights some issues in the recently published paper "Quantum defect and Rydberg energy level calculations for 85Rb and 87Rb by Weakest Bound Electron Potential Model". The issues stem from fundamental and conceptual miscues. We resolved them, and new results are presented based on quantum defect theory and the weakest bound electron potential. The necessary input data to calculate the quantum defects in the 85Rb series were obtained from the NIST site. In the first step, the quantum defect theory determined the quantum defect for the series ns, np, and nd. In the second step, the calculated quantum defects were employed in the Weakest Bound Electron Potential Model theory to calculate the energy of 85Rb I levels. The quantum defects and energies of 85Rb I were determined for the series ns, np, and nd. The spectral coefficients were compared with the published work, and the energies with the NIST database showed good agreement. Our results differ significantly from the previously reported findings, highlighting key errors in methodology.

Nitrogen-doped activated carbon composite electrode for deionization of phosphate removal and DFT model adsorption of phosphates

Phosphate discharge in sewage can result in water eutrophication, posing a threat to aquatic ecosystems. Membrane capacitive deionization (MCDI) has demonstrated outstanding performance and significant potential for salt removal and nutrient recovery. In this study, a nitrogen-doped activated carbon electrode material (NAC) was synthesized through one-step pyrolysis to selectively remove phosphate from MCDI. At a voltage of 1.2V, a flow rate of 20 mL/min, and a pH of 6.51, the phosphate adsorption capacity of the NAC electrode was determined to be 1.60 mg/g. The study revealed that NAC pHpzc increased from 4.14 to 6.44, effectively broadening the pH range for phosphate removal. In the presence of competing ions (NO3-, Cl-, and SO42-) at a concentration of 0.5 M, the electroadsorption capacity of phosphate decreased to 1.21 mg/g, 1.14 mg/g, and 1.02 mg/g, respectively. The kinetic parameters of adsorption indicated that NAC electroadsorbed phosphate through physical adsorption, with the maximum adsorption capacity achieved at 303K. Data from the Freundlich isothermal model suggested that phosphate adsorption by the NAC electrode involves a multilayer adsorption process. A carbon structure model of density functional theory (DFT), incorporating doped nitrogen, was constructed based on XPS analysis. Following nitrogen doping, the electrostatic potential (ESP) of unsaturated carbon atoms became more positive, enhancing the ability of nitrogen-doped activated carbon to adsorb phosphate. This study provides compelling evidence that nitrogen doping facilitates the adsorption of phosphate by carbon materials.

Application of an integrated behaviour-change model on grandparental adherence towards childhood domestic injury prevention in Hong Kong: a longitudinal study

Background/purposeEvery year, unintentional injury claims thousands of children’s lives and causes disabilities in many more. For very young children, these injuries often occur at home. The risks of domestic injury...

Optimizing Genomic Parental Selection for Categorical and Continuous-Categorical Multi-Trait Mixtures.

This study presents a novel approach for the optimization of genomic parental selection in breeding programs involving categorical and continuous-categorical multi-trait mixtures (CMs and CCMMs). Utilizing the Bayesian decision theory (BDT) and latent trait models within a multivariate normal distribution framework, we address the complexities of selecting new parental lines across ordinal and continuous traits for breeding. Our methodology enhances precision and flexibility in genetic selection, validated through extensive simulations. This unified approach presents significant potential for the advancement of genetic improvements in diverse breeding contexts, underscoring the importance of integrating both categorical and continuous traits in genomic selection frameworks.

Applying Technology Acceptance Model Theory on Distributing Electronic Money the Role of Intention Power

The use of electronic money is currently very massive, but in some areas the use of money This electronic also still encounters many obstacles, this is because there is still a need for education and socialization in the distribution of electronic money. Objective: This study aims to analyze the use of TAM theory in distributing electronic money and its influence on usage decisions through the power of interest as an intervening variable. Research Design, Data, and Methodology: This research is a quantitative research that uses primary data from questionnaires distributed to respondents. Research data is processed through path analysis. Data processing and analysis is carried out using Smart-PLS 04 software. Results: this study proves directly the perception of usability of use and perception of ease of use affects the decision of use, ease of use affects the strength of interest, the perception of the benefits of use does not affect the strength of interest, the strength of interest is proven to affect the decision of use, while indirectly the perception of usefulness of use does not affect the decision of use through strength interest and perception of ease of use influence the decision to use through the power of interest Conclusion: The use of electronic money still requires better socialization and education and in educational efforts to distribute electronic money using TAM theory, it is also necessary to emphasize the level of security and risk so that the usefulness of electronic money can be better understood by the public

Acoustic optimization of a tee via a Helmholtz resonant cavity and noise prediction via a genetic algorithm coupled with the grey model

As a key local component in heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, the acoustic characteristics of the tee largely determine the indoor acoustic environment quality. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of the Helmholtz resonant cavity (HRC) on the tee noise and sound transmission loss (STL). The noise was predicted using the Ffowcs Williams-Hawkings (FW-H) equation and large eddy simulation (LES), and an analysis was conducted on four design variables: the cavity width, cavity height, outlet flow ratio, and hole width. The results indicated that increasing the hole width had a positive effect on reducing the noise of the tee. HRC could result in a tee peak noise attenuation up to 34.81 dB. In addition, based on grey model (GM) and genetic algorithm (GA) theory, the noise of the Helmholtz resonant tee (HRT) was predicted, and a noise prediction formula for resonant cavity structure paraments was derived. This study provides a new perspective for optimizing the STL of the tee and a simplified prediction method for low-noise tee design.

The Prisoner’s Dilemma game as a tool to investigate cooperation and undergraduate education in evolution

Evolutionary theory is based on the conflict that arises when certain heritable variants out-compete others. Given this foundational conflict, a central question for evolutionary biologists concerns the presence of cooperation found throughout all levels of biological organization; from biochemical pathways to complex animal societies. Human behavior is often distinguished from other animal behavior by the presence of acts of cooperative behavior called altruism. Altruism is a cooperative act that penalizes the actor for actions that benefit the recipient. Any other form of cooperation, one that does not penalize the actor, is formally not considered altruistic. How can costly altruistic behavior evolve? This question was the basis for development of a web application tool incorporating a game theory model to investigate conditions affecting cooperative behavior. The game theory model described as Prisoner’s Dilemma incorporates acts of cooperation and non-cooperation (defection). Computer simulations of Prisoner’s Dilemma were developed and online applications were administered for five semesters at Georgia Gwinnett College, using two simulation environments referred to as Random and Non-random. Data collected from simulation runs were used to evaluate the effect of environment on student cooperative behavior and actively engage students in concepts associated with the evolution of cooperation and game theory. Results from student game play suggest group simulation environment played a significant role in the likelihood of observing cooperative behavior. Educational content and attitudinal surveys suggested that PD game play in the undergraduate evolution class at Georgia Gwinnett College improved student knowledge and self-confidence.

Solar–Hydrogen-Storage Integrated Electric Vehicle Charging Stations with Demand-Side Management and Social Welfare Maximization

The reliable operation of a power system requires a real-time balance between supply and demand. However, it is difficult to achieve this balance solely by relying on supply-side regulation. Therefore, it is necessary to cooperate with effective demand-side management, which is a key strategy within smart grid systems, encouraging end-users to actively engage and optimize their electricity usage. This paper proposes a novel bi-level optimization model for integrating solar, hydrogen, and battery storage systems with charging stations (SHS-EVCSs) to maximize social welfare. The first level employs a non-cooperative game theory model for each individual EVCS to minimize capital and operational costs. The second level uses a cooperative game framework with an internal management system to optimize energy transactions among multiple EVCSs while considering EV owners’ economic interests. A Markov decision process models uncertainties in EV charging times, and Monte Carlo simulations predict charging demand. Real-time electricity pricing based on the dual theory enables demand-side management strategies like peak shaving and valley filling. Case studies demonstrate the model’s effectiveness in reducing peak loads, balancing energy utilization, and enhancing overall system efficiency and sustainability through optimized renewable integration, energy storage, EV charging coordination, social welfare maximization, and cost minimization. The proposed approach offers a promising pathway toward sustainable energy infrastructure by harmonizing renewable sources, storage technologies, EV charging demands, and societal benefits.

Exploring principals’ process of gathering, reflecting upon and implementing feedback from their teachers: a grounded theory

ABSTRACT This study developed a grounded theory model describing how principals manage feedback on their leadership. Our research was conducted through interviews with 12 principals and led to the identification of three distinct phases. In Phase I, ‘Feedback Collection’, principals choose between formal and informal feedback methods, decide the scope of teacher involvement, and determine the anonymity of responses. Phase II, ‘Reflection’, involves principals’ initial reactions, deliberation through contemplation, debriefing, emotional processing, and validation of the feedback, culminating in a decision to act or not. Phase III, ‘Implementation’, sees principals either taking action through planning and goal-setting, communicating these plans, and enacting changes, or opting for inaction but considering its communication. This cycle is iterative as principals continuously seek new feedback. We suggest using a visual model to represent this feedback process, thereby enhancing the intentionality of the practice. Integrating feedback systems into evaluation frameworks is recommended to support principal development and professional growth. Further research should explore the impact of these feedback processes on teacher perceptions, job satisfaction, and principals’ views on feedback gathering and reflection.

Transcendental Meditation Enriches Nurses' Authentic Presence Through Caring for Self and Others.

Purpose of Study: Given the enormity of the most recent challenges to clinician well-being, intensified by the pandemic, we decided to explore the influence of Transcendental Meditation® (TM)® on the well-being of clinical nurses. The purpose of our study was to use qualitative analysis to enhance our understanding of the experiences of clinical nurses who practiced TM, as viewed through the lens of our conceptual model and Watson's holistic unitary caring science theory. Design and Method: This qualitative study involved a thematic analysis of clinical nurses' written descriptions following the completion of the TM program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Findings: The nurse participants shared their experiences with the practice of TM as creating present moment focus, leading to enhanced self-care, and development of authentic presence with others. The overall theme uncovered in the analysis is that authentic presence is veritas (truth) in knowing, being, doing, and becoming. Conclusions: The findings were congruent with Watson's unitary caring science theory and provided illumination of the holistic value of TM as a self-care strategy for supporting nurses' well-being with the goal of retaining nurses in practice. When nurses care for themselves, they are more likely and able to care for others, thus helping them to enjoy their nursing careers.