Quantitative Methods Research Articles

The Role of Lower Extremity Neuromuscular Control and Stability in Predicting Biomotor Skills in Soccer Players

Soccer is a complex sport that requires the utilization of multiple motor skills. The effective use of these skills enables players to make accurate and quick decisions. The kinetic chain in sports is a mechanism that activates neuromuscular coordination of the body segments to perform sport-specific tasks. In this context, this study aims to examine the role of lower extremity neuromuscular control and stability in predicting biomotor skills in soccer players. This study was designed with descriptive and relational survey models from quantitative research methods. A total of 53 male soccer players voluntarily participated in the study. The data collection tools included the “Personal Information Form,” “20 Meter Sprint Test,” “Standing Long Jump,” “505 Agility Test,” and the “Closed Kinetic Chain Lower Extremity Stability Test (CKCLEST).” The data were analyzed using the Pearson Correlation Test and regression analysis. According to the analysis, no significant relationship was found between the biomotor skills of the athletes and the CKCLEST points (for all variables; p>0.212; r<0.130). However, a significant positive correlation was found between agility and sprint performance (r = 0.349, p = 0.010), and a significant negative correlation was identified between agility and long jump performance (r = -0.575, p < 0.001). Regression analysis showed that the long jump explained 0.0002% of the CKCLEST variance (R² = 0.000002, β = -0.019), agility explained 1.7% (R² = 0.017, β = 1.54), and sprint explained 3.0% (R² = 0.030, β = -2.87). The findings showed no significant correlation between biomotor performance and the neuromuscular control and stability test points. However, significant positive relationships were observed between agility and sprint, and a significant negative relationship between long jump and agility. In conclusion, the findings suggest that multiple tests should be used simultaneously to differentiate athletes with similar biomotor performance levels.

An End-to-End Quantitative Identification Method for Mining Wire Rope Damage Based on Time Series Classification and Deep Learning

An End-to-End Quantitative Identification Method for Mining Wire Rope Damage Based on Time Series Classification and Deep Learning

How Fanatic? Examining the Relationship between Sports Team Evangelism and Media Fanaticism

The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between sports team evangelism and media fanaticism levels of Atatürk University Faculty of Sports Sciences students. The research was conducted with a total of 320 students studying Faculty of Sports Sciences at Atatürk University. In the study, Sports Team Evangelism (eFANgelism) Scale and Fans' Motivation to Follow Their Teams on Social Media Scale were applied by using the relational survey model, one of the quantitative research methods. Independent Sample T-Test and One-Way Analysis of Variance were used to analyze the data. In cases where a significant difference was observed as a result of One-Way Analysis of Variance, Post Hoc (Tukey) test was applied to find the source of the difference. In order to determine the relationship between the scales, "Pearson Correlation" analyzes were performed and evaluated at the p < .05 significance level. A significant difference was found in the gender variable in the participants' sports team evangelism levels (p < .05). Significant difference wasn't found in the variables of age, sports license status, income level, department, and favorite team. Significant differences were detected in the participants' motivation to follow their teams on social media in terms of gender, sports license status, department and favorite team variables. No significant difference was found in age and income level variables. It was concluded that there was a highly positive relationship between the participants' sports team evangelism levels and their motivation to follow their teams on social media. It can be said that as the participants' level of sports team evangelism increases, their motivation to follow their teams on social media also increases; as the level of sports team evangelism decreases, their motivation to follow their teams on social media also decreases.

Feasibility of Quantitative Theory in ESG Investment Field

Environment (E), society (S), and governance (G) are the key drivers for corporate sustainability in the modern world. To better implement ESG investment standards and control risks, quantitative methods should be introduced to practice the ESG investment philosophy. This article studies that sustainable development is a development concept put forward by human beings today after reflection and looking forward to the future. ESG has become a factor to be evaluated together with economic and financial indicators in corporate management and financial investment. By tracing the development history of ESG and analyzing the different focuses of the globally recognized ESG evaluation systems nowadays, the non-financial information of enterprises regarding ESG is used, and the quantitative methods in the field of financial investment are applied to develop relevant data platforms. Research shows that by quantifying the data in the three dimensions related to ESG, the data will be clearer and more accurate, enabling investors to maximize their returns under the condition that ESG risks are controllable.

A Quantitative Research of Retirement Policy in China Based on PMC-AE Index Model

Under the circumstance of aging phenomenon, Chinas government tried to keep social stability by changing retirement policies. So far, there is no research has systematically evaluated the consistency of the series of policies issued by China's retirement system, or pointed out the advantages and disadvantages of the current retirement policies in China. This paper evaluates Chinas retirement policy (1950-2022) in a quantitative method by PMC-AE index model. Based on the model, it sets nine major variables, including policy level, policy duration, policy nature, target population, release body, policy evaluation, policy input, policy implementation, and policy impact. Results show that the average of PMC index for 14 Chinas retirement policies was 8.21, 3 excellent consistency policies (P10, P11, P14) and 11 perfect consistency policies (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5, P6, P7, P8, P9, P12, P13). Policy 13 Civil Servant Law of the Peoples Republic of China (retirement part) gains the highest score (8.47), and Policy 11Shanghai Urban Employee Pension Insurance Measures scored the lowest (7.97). Therefore, China's retirement policies are generally perfect consistency and low fidelity. The main risk factors are policy implementation and target population. But it gets high marks for policy consistency, effectiveness and input.

Contextualizing the challenges of education graduate students in the Philippines: translating needs analysis into strategic solutions

The Philippine government has described the state of the education system, including graduate education, as both "miseducation" and a "failed system," resulting in poor quality. In response, the Philippine Commission on Higher Education has introduced a new policy implicitly called the "no publication, no graduation policy" and the implementation of transnational education law in the Philippines. This study explores the interest levels, research productivity, institutional support, and challenges faced by graduate students majoring in education, particularly in light of the recent implementation of the Commission on Higher Education Memo No. 15, Series of 2019. The study employed a descriptive quantitative online survey method with 198 education graduate students enrolled in the master's and doctoral degrees at Y University using Tinto's Theory of Student Departure. The findings showed that the majority of respondents show interest in research but lack confidence in their abilities, indicating a limited publication output. Regarding the top 12 challenges of graduate students at Y University were lack of time for research, lack of research capacity building, conflict of schedule between work and study, lack of mentoring support, extended cost for residency, heavy workload as a working student, lack of academic resources, financial problems, emotional concerns, unresponsive supervisor, lack of support from the library, and lack of motivation. Respondents predominantly prefer enhancing their research skills through structured training, seminars, and workshops. The study provides a range of recommendations to improve graduate education and the need for further research in this area.

THE EFFECT OF LEADERSHIP STYLE AND WORK ENVIRONMENT ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE AT THE AERODYNAMICS, AEROELASTICS, AEROACOUSTICS LABORATORY (LA3-BRIN) IN THE SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY PARK BJ HABIBIE SETU, TANGERANG SELATAN

This study aims to analyze the influence of leadership style and work environment on employee performance at LA3-BRIN. The research employs a quantitative associative method with a saturated sampling technique, involving 80 employees as respondents. Data collection was conducted through questionnaires, and the analysis was carried out using multiple linear regression to examine both partial and simultaneous effects of the independent variables on employee performance. The findings reveal that leadership style does not significantly affect employee performance, while the work environment has a strong and positive influence. A well-structured and comfortable workplace, including air circulation, lighting, and noise control, enhances employee motivation and productivity. Although leadership style does not have a direct impact, it plays an indirect role in shaping organizational culture and engagement. The study concludes that improving the work environment and refining leadership approaches can enhance overall employee performance.

Beyond the Surface: Exploring Ancient Plant Food Processing through Confocal Microscopy and 3D Texture Analysis on Ground Stone Tools

Ground stone tools are frequently found in archaeological contexts from early to late prehistoric times. These tools are key evidence for reconstructing past societies’ lifeways, technology and know-how, given their role in different tasks, including subsistence and craft activities. In recent years, the field of use-wear studies on ground stone tools showed an exponential growth in applying quantitative methods at all scales of observations, from macro to micro. These included using 3D models to measure and identify worked areas, spatial analyses for exploring trace and residue distribution, and confocal profilometers to analyse micro-polish texture. In this paper, we present results stemming from the application of confocal light microscopy and 3D surface texture analysis to identify and distinguish micro-polishes deriving from the processing of plant foods. We tested the potential of this method by analysing micro-polishes on modern limestone replicas used for grinding, pounding and dehusking wild and domestic cereal grains and legumes. Following a multi-level analysis, we demonstrate the efficacy of confocal microscopy and 3D surface texture analysis in correctly discriminating between different micro-polishes. We show how this method, integrated with the qualitative assessment of use-wear, may enhance functional interpretations of ground stone tools; we also discuss the current limits and future perspectives for their systematic application in the study of archaeological assemblages.

THE IMPACT OF WORK DISCIPLINE AND WORK ENVIRONMENT ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE AT PT. HJ BUSANA INDAH QUALITY CONTROL DIVISION SUKABUMI

This study examines the influence of work discipline and work environment on employee performance in the Quality Control Division of PT. Hj Busana Indah. The research adopts a quantitative method with an associative approach to analyze the relationships between variables. The population consists of 120 employees in the Quality Control division, and the sample size was determined using Slovin’s formula, resulting in 99 respondents selected through simple random sampling. Data were collected through surveys and analyzed using SPSS software. The findings indicate that work discipline has a significant positive effect on employee performance, while the work environment also contributes but to a lesser extent. A well-structured disciplinary system enhances productivity, and a supportive work environment fosters motivation and efficiency. Multiple regression analysis confirms that both variables play a role in improving performance. The study recommends strengthening discipline policies and enhancing workplace conditions to optimize employee performance and company competitiveness.

Establishment of a rapid and quantitative method for detecting the range of infection exposure in preclinical dental education

BackgroundsSafe dental treatments that prevent nosocomial and cross-infections are essential for patients and dental workers. However, dental students sometimes pay inadequate attention to infection control, especially in preclinical practice, because of too much focus on technical training, such as the use of equipment, etc. The spread of infections such as SARS-CoV-2, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and oral bacteria are sometimes lethal for medically compromised patients. Thus, the rapid and inexpensive detection system to detect and measure dental practice-related infection spread during preclinical treatment is highly desired for dental education. This study aimed to establish a method to quantify and visualize infected areas using dental phantoms for safe and effective preclinical dental practices.MethodsAt first, we developed artificial saliva as an in vitro study, including food-derived bacteria and fluorescence dye, which is safe for application to preclinical practice education. In vitro study, the correlation between adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels and Lactobacillus colony numbers in yogurt was examined using the ATP fluorescent method, with colony counting on yogurt only and a mixture of yogurt and ultraviolet (UV)-sensitive hand lotion. The mixed liquid of yogurt and hand lotion was used as artificial saliva. Second, we used this artificial saliva in preclinical education. The degree of contamination of personal protective equipment and dental chairs in preclinical practice using this artificial saliva was determined using the ATP fluorescent method and measuring the luminescence areas among 10 dentists, 10 dental residents, and 10 fifth-grade dental students.ResultsATP levels and Lactobacillus colony numbers in yogurt were positively correlated with yogurt alone and a mixture of yogurt and UV-sensitive hand lotions (correlation coefficient ≒ 1). Preclinical education using a mixture of artificial saliva successfully quantified and visualized infectious areas and droplets, which revealed significant differences in ATP amounts in personal protective equipment among groups according to years of experience as dental practitioners (p < 0.05).ConclusionsAn education system for infection control constructed using artificial saliva containing Lactobacillus and a UV-sensitive fluorescent hand lotion quantified the infectious areas and degrees. Thus, this method is effective in preclinical practice using dental phantoms.

Development of a new method for maintainability and downtime analysis of mining machinery

Shovels are universally acknowledged as vital machinery in surface mining production systems, and enhancements to this equipment substantially augment operational mine output capacity. Extending the length of continuous operation is a cost-efficient strategy that may result in significant productivity improvements, as it is directly linked to the fleet’s reliability and maintainability. This research analyses the maintainability of a fleet of ten rope shovels in an open-pit copper mine, consisting of three separate models. To this end, repair data for all ten shovels over two years were analyzed, and maintainability models were assigned to each shovel. The results indicate that all shovels are predominantly maintained in less than 45 h, and 80% of repairs can be accomplished within a single shift, which is operationally understandable and manageable for the entire crew. Alongside maintainability research, a novel quantitative method has been established to examine the composition of downtimes based on primary categories of action: pre-repair actions, repair actions, and post-repair actions. Analysis of 25 mechanical and 25 electrical failures revealed that repair duration was almost 50% of the overall downtime. The residual time was allocated to multiple tasks, including vehicle arrival, delays, requisite preparations, diagnostics, and performance testing and validation. Approximately 30% of the overall downtime stemmed from the duration needed for transportation from the repair facility to the machine and operational delays. The findings established a foundation for recommending a viable approach to enhance the maintenance and repair conditions of the Shovel fleet at the copper mine under consideration.

Unveiling the gaze: deciphering key factors in selecting knowledge workers through eye-tracking analysis

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to identify and analyze the characteristics and visual patterns of successful knowledge workers using quantitative methods, particularly eye-tracking technology. By conducting a systematic review and matching identified factors with theoretical literature, the research aims to uncover key attributes that contribute to the effectiveness of knowledge workers. These insights are intended to improve employee selection processes, ensuring the right candidates are chosen based on their cognitive, behavioral and visual traits.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-methods approach is employed in this study, consisting of three phases: (1) a systematic literature review identifies key characteristics of successful knowledge workers, (2) these factors are aligned with theoretical frameworks and expert insights to assess their applicability and (3) empirical data is collected through questionnaires and eye-tracking assessments involving ten high-performing site design employees and ten students from Shahid Beheshti University. SPSS software and Tobii Pro Lab tools are used for data analysis to establish correlations between eye movement patterns and attributes of effective knowledge workers.FindingsThe findings reveal that students whose eye movement patterns resemble those of high-performing knowledge workers also share similar cognitive and behavioral characteristics. Identified key attributes include enhanced problem-solving skills, adaptability and effective communication. The study further highlights the potential of eye-tracking technology as a valuable tool in employee selection, offering insights into visual behaviors that correlate with high performance in knowledge work. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the critical traits that optimize organizational performance.Originality/valueThis study presents a novel approach by integrating eye-tracking technology into the knowledge worker selection process. It provides empirical evidence of the visual and cognitive patterns associated with high performance, thereby enhancing the theoretical understanding of knowledge worker selection. The study contributes valuable insights for organizations aiming to refine their hiring practices, emphasizing the importance of both cognitive skills and visual behaviors in candidate assessment. This research lays the groundwork for future studies exploring the intersection of technology and human resource management to optimize workforce effectiveness.

The Influence of Family Support on Stroke Patient Compliance in Treatment at Blud RSU Ciamis

Family support is an important role for the recovery of stroke patients. With family support from all sides, stroke patients will be motivated to recover. Family support is a form of affection given to loved ones so that everyone feels cared for and loved. . This form of support can be in the form of words, behavior or material. Purpose: to find out how the influence of family support on stroke patients undergoing treatment at the BLUD of RSU Ciamis. Method: The method used in this study is a quantitative method using a descriptive design and a cross-sectional research design. The sample in this study was 32 respondents in stroke patients at the BLUD of RSU Ciamis. Results: It can be explained that there is an effect of family support on stroke patient compliance in undergoing treatment at the BLUD of RSU Ciamis. Conclusion: family support for stroke patient adherence has an influence on undergoing treatment at the BLUD of RSU Ciamis.

Developing a framework for cloud computing adoption in academic libraries: an empirical investigation from university librarians

Purpose This study aims to investigate the adoption of cloud computing by university libraries in Punjab province, Pakistan, identify the awareness of university librarians about the use of cloud computing in libraries, reveal the problems faced by university libraries in adopting cloud computing and develop a framework for cloud computing adoption in academic libraries. Design/methodology/approach This study used a quantitative research method by using a questionnaire as an instrument to address the study’s objectives. A total of 65 university libraries of Punjab Province were the population of the study. A purposive sampling technique was used. The SPSS software was used for the analysis of data. Findings The study found that the majority of university libraries in the Punjab province have the necessary information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure. Among the three cloud computing models (SaaS, PaaS and IaaS), Software as a Service (SaaS) was the most widely adopted model in university libraries. The study identified various cloud-based services provided by university libraries. Librarians showed limited awareness of cloud service providers, with the majority only being aware of Amazon Web Services. Librarians acknowledged various challenges in adopting cloud-based library services, including poor internet connectivity, high subscription and renewal costs, data security and privacy concerns. Originality/value This study has provided a framework based on empirical findings of the study to efficiently adopt cloud-based library services in academic libraries.

An Evaluation of OpenAlex Level 0 - Art

OpenAlex is an online repository using an automated classification system. While existing studies highlight the overall usability of OpenAlex, this study analyzes the limitations and effectiveness of the Level 0 concept “Art.” Our findings suggest that the system has significant hierarchical and semantic shortcomings identified through a mixed-method research approach. This approach utilized qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a holistic evaluation of the system, gauging its effectiveness in indexing papers. Moreover, we provide key insights into how improvements can be made to render OpenAlex an effective andusable classification system.

Pre-Service Special Education Teachers’ Perceptions of Applying Technologies in Education

The role of technology in special education is of great significance, yet few studies have targeted pre-service special education teachers as users of educational technology. The aim was to explore such teachers’ technology perceptions: (a) purposes of and reasons for applying technologies in education; (b) factors they see affecting the use of technology in education; and (c) how these perceptions evolved between 2017 ( N = 111) and 2022 ( N = 86). The perceptions of students in two cohorts were investigated with quantitative and qualitative methods. Quantitative results indicated that students’ perceptions of applying technologies for various educational purposes became more positive in the 2022 cohort. All students saw multiple factors affecting the use of technology in education. Qualitative results showed students’ multiple considerations regarding both educational purposes and advancing factors. The results suggest that teacher training should provide knowledge, examples and authentic learning experiences with different technologies for the purposes of special education.

The mechanical test as a supplemental decision support tool for the safe removal of an Ilizarov circular external fixator

BackgroundTiming the fixator removal is vital for a successful external fixation treatment. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of axial load–share ratio in vivo as a supplemental decision support tool for the safe removal of an Ilizarov circular external fixator.MethodsThis prospective observational study consists of 83 patients undergoing tibial or femoral lengthening with Ilizarov circular external fixation in our institution, from January 2011 to October 2019. In group I (38 patients), the external fixator was removed based on the surgeon’s clinical experience and radiographs from January 2011 to June 2015. In group II (45 patients), from July 2015 to October 2019, the supplemental axial load–share (LS) ratio test was accomplished without the knowledge of the clinical results by another medical team. The test was performed by electronically measuring forces in the fixator rods and in a ground force plate. When the LS ratio < 10% was consistent with the conclusion (dense bone formation was achieved in the distraction zone) drawn from the corresponding routine radiographs by the treating surgeon, the external fixator was removed.ResultsThere was no statistical significance in demographic data between the two groups (P > 0.05). In group I, 4 of the 38 patients suffered refracture (the refracture rate was 10.5%) after fixator removal, and bone union was finally achieved with further intervention by intramedullary nail. In group II, 36 patients terminated the external fixation after the first mechanical test, and another 9 patients terminated the external fixation at the subsequent test. None of the 45 patients in group II suffered refracture (the refracture rate was 0%). There was statistical significance in the refracture rate between the two groups (P < 0.05).ConclusionsAdequate assessment of bone regenerate is crucial before removing an external fixator to prevent deformation or refracture. The axial load–share ratio in vivo is a practically quantitative method to supplement radiography and clinical experience for the assessment of regenerate healing, and the axial load–share ratio dropped below 10% is a safe limit for the Ilizarov circular external fixator removal.

Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the Swallowing Satisfaction Scale (SSS).

The purpose of the current study was to develop a new scale to assess a level of satisfaction associated directly with swallowing ability. First, by interviewing 10 adults with dysphagia, 10 experts, as well as reviewing literature, the initial version of the swallowing satisfaction scale (SSS) was developed. The content validity of the SSS was evaluated using two qualitative and quantitative methods and expert opinions. The qualitative method was also used to determine face validity through interviews with 10 adults with dysphagia. Finally, the reliability of the scale was assessed by determining the values of internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Interviews with patients with swallowing disorders and experts in the field of dysphagia, as well as a literature review, led to the development of an initial version of the SSS with 36 items. After determining content and face validity, the number of items in the scale was reduced to 24. The calculation of Cronbach's alpha coefficient with participation of 53 patients with dysphagia showed the appropriate internal consistency of the SSS (0.968). Moreover, the ICC coefficient of the scale score in the test-retest phase was 0.983 and the ICC of each scale item was between 0.87 and 0.98. In this study, a suitable tool was developed to evaluate the level of satisfaction associated directly with swallowing ability in individuals with dysphagia, and its psychometric properties were investigated. The SSS is a valid and reliable tool with 24 items that can be used by therapists and researchers for clinical or research purposes.

Impact of time-based variability on planning reliability in construction projects: analysis of production management systems

PurposeThis research article proposes a quantitative method for analyzing planning reliability and risk evaluation in construction projects through probabilistic numerical simulation models. The aim is to assess the combined time-based variability of activities across the project and its impact on planning reliability in various production management systems.Design/methodology/approachThe study examines different methods for comparing the impact of production management strategies, specifically standardization and lean construction practices, on project reliability. The article introduces Monte Carlo, importance sampling and first-order-second moment methods as quantitative tools for decision-making and continuous improvement in construction projects.FindingsThe utilization of multiple numerical simulation models demonstrates how the variability in activity durations directly affects planning reliability, leading to uncertainty and increased risk in construction projects. The study highlights the significance of lean construction principles and industrialized processes, such as standardization of processes and construction methods, in reducing variability and improving the average duration of activities. Furthermore, it quantifies the differential impact of various production management systems on project performance and planning reliability.Research limitations/implicationsThis study is based on a limited number of case studies, which may affect the generalizability of the findings. The results are specific to the construction projects analyzed in Colombia. Expanding the research to include a broader range of projects will improve the applicability of the findings. Developing more comprehensive numerical models can also enhance understanding of planning reliability across different construction management systems.Originality/valueCurrently, there are limited quantitative methods available for project managers to evaluate the impact of industrialized construction practices and production management strategies on planning reliability as well as quantifying the associated risk level in project delays. Consequently, the adoption of innovative construction methods is often limited to a few pilot projects, as managers lack numerical evidence to support the implementation of new methodologies that require changes in traditional operational practices.

Ultrasound in pediatric emergency medicine simulation: evaluation of a longitudinal curriculum.

Pediatric resuscitations involving shock and trauma are rare but they are high-stakes events in the pediatric emergency department (ED). Effective use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) can expedite diagnosis and treatment in such cases. This study aimed to assess the impact of a longitudinal pediatric emergency medicine simulation curriculum and high-fidelity POCUS simulator on residents' clinical practice, comfort level, and motivation to learn resuscitative ultrasound. This mixed-methods study involved 12 pediatric emergency medicine residents who participated in a 12-month simulation curriculum integrating resuscitative ultrasound. The POCUS simulator was integrated and made available for use during all simulations. Assessment and program evaluation occurred at multiple levels, according to Kirkpatrick's hierarchy, using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The residents were surveyed at baseline, 4, 8 and 12months. Semi-structured interviews were conducted at the end of the 12-month study period. Twelve residents participated in 23 simulation cases over the 12-month longitudinal curriculum. The hybrid POCUS simulator was used by participants in 18/23 (78.2%) cases. Comparing pre- and post-curriculum changes, large effect sizes were seen in residents' comfort using ultrasound in resuscitation (including in cases of trauma and undifferentiated shock). Accordingly, the mean number of POCUS scans performed per resident clinically on shift increased from a mean (SD) of 5.7 (± 2.3) scans/month to 12.4 (± 5.1) scans/month. Qualitative analysis highlighted several themes, including the value of simulation for teaching the integration of resuscitative ultrasound in high-acuity low-occurrence events and the effect of repeat exposures to resuscitative ultrasound. Our study demonstrated that a longitudinal, simulation-based curriculum focused on resuscitative ultrasound increased residents' confidence, their motivation and likelihood of using these skills in the clinical setting. Repeated simulation exposures to resuscitative ultrasound can help participants translate this critical skill into use at the bedside, especially in high-acuity low-occurrence events.