Research Reports Research Articles

A refined framework for qualitative content analysis of mathematics textbooks

Within the realm of mathematics education, the examination of textbooks has emerged as a focal point of scholarly investigation. This endeavor necessitates the development of a comprehensive instrument capable of facilitating both qualitative and quantitative textbook analysis. To address this need, we draw upon a corpus of seminal studies, and supplement our analysis with local research reports that assess the quality of mathematics textbooks through a qualitative content analysis approach. Content analysis was utilized to examine the documents and identify the themes relevant to the analysis of mathematics textbooks. Our data analysis revealed the identification of six overarching themes for the systematic evaluation of mathematics textbooks: (1) language and communication, (2) content analysis, (3) pedagogical approach, (4) cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, (5) assessment and exercises, and (6) visual aids and presentation. Each of these themes is meticulously expounded upon, shedding light on their significance in shaping the intricacies of mathematics textbook authorship. This proposed analytical framework presents an invaluable resource for enhancing the quality of mathematics textbooks at the school level. The themes elucidated herein offer a structured approach to textbook assessment, ultimately fostering the advancement of mathematical education by improving the instructional materials that are integral to the teaching and learning process.

Mind-wandering increases in frequency over time during task performance: An individual-participant meta-analytic review.

Attention has a seemingly inevitable tendency to turn inward toward our thoughts. Mind-wandering refers to moments when this inward focus diverts attention away from the current task-at-hand. Mind-wandering is thought to be ubiquitous, having been estimated to occur between 30% and 50% of our waking moments. Yet, it is unclear whether this frequency is similar within-task performance contexts and unknown whether mind-wandering systematically increases with time-on-task for a broad range of tasks. We conducted a systematic literature search and individual participant data meta-analysis of rates of occurrence of mind-wandering during task performance. Our search located 68 research reports providing almost a half-million total responses to experience sampling mind-wandering probes from more than 10,000 unique individuals. Latent growth curve models estimated the initial occurrence of mind-wandering and linear change in mind-wandering over sequential probes for each study sample, and effects were summarized using multivariate meta-analysis. Our results confirm that mind-wandering increases in frequency over time during task performance, implicating mind-wandering in characteristic within-task psychological changes, such as increasing boredom and patterns of worsening behavioral performance with time-on-task. The systematic search and meta-analysis provide the most comprehensive assessment of normative rates of mind-wandering during task performance reported to date. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

The Empowerment of Digital Literacy Aspects in Education Policy: Supporting Young Generation's Preparability for the Digital Era Literature Review

This research aims to investigate the importance of the empowering aspects of digital literacy in education policy to support young people's readiness for the digital age. Utilizing a structured approach, this research conducted a deep analysis of the relevant literature and presented data and findings that support the argument. The literature review highlights the concept of digital literacy, its impact on everyday life, and the need for integration into the education system. The research methodology involved a critical analysis of various sources related to the topic, including scientific journals, textbooks, and research reports. The findings show that the empowerment of digital literacy in education policy has a positive impact on preparing young people for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.orts. The findings show that the empowerment of digital literacy in education policy has a positive impact on preparing young people for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.

Effect of Hita Tenryo Water™, a natural mineral water, on allergic symptoms induced by cedar in mice

The number of patients with allergies to pollen and food is increasing worldwide. In Japan, the prevalence of cedar pollinosis, a type I allergy, is nearly 30% and accounts of hay fever are rising. A potential natural remedy for these allergic diseases may be Hita Tenryo Water™ (referred to simply as Hita Tenryo water), water that is pumped from deep underground in the Hita region of Oita, Japan, which has been the subject of various research reports. Here, we investigated the potential of using Hita Tenryo water to suppress the onset of cedar pollinosis in a mouse model and explored the immunological mechanism of the suppression. Test model mice were given Hita Tenryo water ad libitum to drink and received intraperitoneal administration of (i) tap water (Hw1), (ii) 25% Hita Tenryo water (Hw2) or (iii) 100% Hita Tenryo (Hw3). There were no significant differences in body weight change, feed intake, or water intake among the groups during the experimental period. We examined nose rubbing and sneezing as allergic symptoms. The frequency of rubbing and sneezing tended to decrease in the Hw1 and Hw2 group, and significantly decreased in the Hw3 group compared to control. Total IgE levels in serum were also significantly reduced in Hita Tenryo water intraperitoneal administration groups. In vitro examination of the rate of release of β-hexosaminidase from BL-2H3 cells showed that there were no significantly differences between Hita Tenryo water-treated and control cells. In addition, measurement of Th2-related cytokine levels in concanavalin A-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells revealed a significant decrease in IL-4, IL-6, and IL-10 levels in medium (p < 0.01). In contrast, production of IFN-γ significantly increased (p < 0.01). These results indicate that Hita Tenryo water may alleviate and/or suppress allergic symptoms.

Advancing the Engineering Approach to Improving the Quality Cracking Efficiency of Palm Nut Crackiing Machine

A Palm Nut cracking machine with an improved beater configuration was developed to effectively crack Palm Nuts of various species and sizes. This research aim at improving the quality of the Palm kernel recovered at relatively low cost during Palm kernel oil production. Durable materials were acquired locally to fabricate the machine for ease of usage and maintenance, also to make it affordable for small and large scale processors. Basic features of the machine are; hopper, electric motor (prime mower), cracking chamber, cracking beater and discharge outlet. The design of the cracking drum and beater configuration was based on the impact force required to crack the Palm Nut which is a function of Palm Nut shear strength. A 5 hp electric motor was selected based on the power required to effectively operate the machine. The machine was tested with “Tenera” varieties, three nut sizes (14.5, 22.15 and 29.43mm) and five speeds (970, 1200, 1450, 1750 and 2430rpm). Result shows that the change in machine speed significantly (P&lt;0.05) affects all the machine performance irrespective of the Palm Nut size and variety, which agrees with the report of several other researchers. The obtained optimum machine performance values are 14,874 nuts/h, 89.5%, 98% for the machine capacity, quality performance efficiency and cracking efficiency for Tenera variety. The best crop and machine parameter for the optimum performance of the Palm Nutcracker are 29.43 mm and 970 rpm, nut size and machine speed.  It was concluded that the overall performance of this developed Palm Nut cracking beater was effective because it fell within the range of 80 to 98% efficiency.

Comparing autonomous vehicle acceptance of German residents with and without visual impairments

Connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) will greatly impact the lives of individuals with visual impairments, but how they differ in expectations compared to sighted individuals is not clear. The present research reports results based on survey responses from 114 visually impaired participants and 117 panel recruited participants without visual impairments, from Germany. Their attitudes towards autonomous vehicles and their expectations for consequences of wide-spread adoption of CAVs are assessed. Results indicate significantly more positive CAV attitudes in participants with visual impairments compared to those without visual impairments. Mediation analyses indicate that visually impaired individuals’ more positive CAV attitudes (compared to sighted individuals’) are largely explained by higher hopes for independence, and more optimistic expectations regarding safety and sustainability. Policy makers should ensure accessibility without sacrificing goals for higher safety and lower ecological impact to make CAVs an acceptable inclusive mobility solution.

Paper Mills – Research report from COPE &amp; STM

Version 1: June 2022

Optimized Solid–Liquid Separation of Phenolics from Lavender Waste and Properties of the Dried Extracts

Lavender distillation produces huge quantities of solid waste yearly. This waste is usually discarded, resulting in serious environmental issues. However, it still contains residual essential oil and other bioactive compounds. This research reports on the development and comparison of optimized solid–liquid separation methods, i.e., microwave- (MAE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of phenolic compounds from lavender distillation waste. The optimal pretreatment conditions, such as waste moisture content and particle size, were also determined. The extracts were spray- or freeze-dried and the resulting powders were characterized for their physicochemical properties. The majority of the original phenolic compounds in lavender were found in the leachate fraction after distillation (61%), whereas 43% was found in the solid waste. Drying of the solid waste before extraction affected the process efficiency. UAE led to a higher phenolic content and greater antioxidant properties compared to MAE. Drying (spray or freeze) the extracts did not significantly affect their phenolic content, whereas the use of maltodextrin as a drying agent improved the drying process yield, especially when using the freeze-drying method. It is concluded that valorization of lavender distillation wastes can be achieved via an integrated process consisting of a green extraction method and a consequent drying process that results in a stable bioactive powder.

It isn't just Mom: Gendered provision of family and home responsibilities among emerging adults during COVID-19.

Media and research reports have highlighted the disproportionate burden of home and family responsibilities shouldered by women and mothers due to COVID-19-related school/childcare shutdowns. This cross-sectional study extends this line of inquiry to emerging adults. Our study of 329 diverse emerging adults suggests that young women took on more home/family responsibilities than young men amidst the pandemic, and that these duties were associated with symptoms of depression. However, results also indicate that emerging adults who reported greater home/family responsibilities amidst the pandemic also experienced more quality family time, suggesting that pandemic-related challenges may have also been accompanied by opportunities for family connection. Contrary to previous research that has shown home/family responsibilities to be concentrated by SES and race/ethnicity, we found that participants uniformly endorsed COVID-19-related impacts on home/family responsibilities across these demographic distinctions. This could reflect the ubiquity of COVID-19's impact; across race/ethnicity and class-but differentially by gender-young adults faced significant challenges in taking on new home/family roles.

Identifying the Best Model for Implementing Technology-Based Education in Indonesian Schools

This research aims to identify optimal models that can be implemented effectively in Indonesian schools using technology-based education. The approach used in this research is literature study analysis, using literature study research methods to collect and summarize related literature from various sources such as journals, books, research reports, and theses. An in-depth evaluation of the literature reviewed shows that each model, such as Blended Learning, Flipped Classroom, Learning Management Systems, Game Based Learning, Video-Based Learning, Open Educational Resources – OER, STEM Model, Social Media in Learning, and Mobile Learning (m-learning), has specific advantages and disadvantages. The results of this research identify optimal models to be implemented in the context of technology-based education in Indonesian schools but also provide a basis for improvement and concrete recommendations for further research and implementation. The implications of these research findings are significant, providing valuable guidance for educational stakeholders, teachers, and researchers. The resulting conclusions can also be a basis for policymakers to design more effective technology-based education strategies in Indonesia. Thus, this research has the potential to inspire positive changes in curriculum development and technology education in schools while supporting efforts to improve the overall quality of education in Indonesia.

Frozen inactivated autograft replantation for bone and soft tissue sarcomas.

The frozen inactivation of autologous tumor bones using liquid nitrogen is an important surgical method for limb salvage in patients with sarcoma. At present, there are few research reports related to frozen inactivated autograft replantation. In this study, we retrospectively collected the clinical data of patients with bone and soft tissue sarcoma treated with liquid nitrogen-frozen inactivated tumor bone replantation, and analyzed the safety and efficacy of this surgical method. The healing status of the frozen inactivated autografts was evaluated using the International Society of Limb Salvage (ISOLS) scoring system. Functional status of patients was assessed using the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) scale. This study included 43 patients. The average length of the bone defect after tumor resection is 16.9cm (range 6.3-35.3 cm). Patients with autograft not including the knee joint surface had significantly better healing outcomes (ISOLS scores) (80.6% ± 15% vs 28.2% ± 4.9%, P<0.001) and limb function (MSTS score) (87% ± 11.6% vs 27.2% ± 4.4%, P<0.001) than patients with autografts including the knee joint surface. The healing time of the end of inactivated autografts near the metaphyseal was significantly shorter than that of the end far away from the metaphyseal (9.8 ± 6.3 months vs 14.9 ± 6.3 months, P=0.0149). One patient had local recurrence, one had an autograft infection, five (all of whom had an autograft including the knee joint surface) had joint deformities, and seven had bone non-union. Frozen inactivated autologous tumor bone replantation is safe and results in good bone healing. But this method is not suitable for patients with autograft involving the knee joint surface.

How Community-based Tourism Improves Community Welfare? A Practical Case Study of ‘Governing the Commons’ in Rural Nglanggeran, Indonesia

Anchored in Ostrom’s (1990) account of Governing the Commons, this article discusses community-based mechanisms and their potential implication for poverty alleviation and well-being improvement of societies. The material for this article draws on our research report on the application of community-based tourism (CBT) as social innovation for poverty alleviation and social well-being improvement in the Nglanggeran village from 2009 to 2016, which continues to be monitored to date. Our findings indicate that community-led initiatives have been successful in alleviating chronic poverty and social problems by integrating local institutions and developing resource-based businesses. However, recent government intervention has limited the initiatives, highlighting a power imbalance between government agencies and the community. Consequently, CBT has become an industry reserved for a select few villagers who have formed partnerships with the government. It reveals the recurring problems of government–community partnership, which, over the last two decades, has expanded in many Southern countries and has resulted in contestations of political interest within the empowerment programme, all of which produced institutional constraints to ‘commons approach’ application to governance. This article contributes to understanding the dynamics of empowerment initiatives by highlighting the intersection of collectivity and welfare capitalism as an analytical framework, enabling the application of ‘the commons theory’ within community/social development studies.

Where and How Health Care Happens

This issue of NEJM Catalyst Innovations in Care Delivery includes articles, case studies, and research reports on health care buildings, at-home care, ambient AI, academic medical centers, anti-racism training, and workplace violence response.

Pharmacologic interventions for the treatment of equine herpesvirus-1 in domesticated horses: A systematic review.

Equine herpes virus type 1 (EHV-1) infection in horses is associated with upper respiratory disease, neurological disease, abortions, and neonatal death. Does pharmacological therapy decrease either the incidence or severity of disease or infection caused by EHV-1 in domesticated horses? A systematic review was preformed searching AGRICOLA, CAB Abstracts, Cochrane, PubMed, Web of Science, and WHO Global Health Index Medicus Regional Databases to identify articles published before February 15, 2021. Selection criteria were original research reports published in peer reviewed journals, and studies investigating in vivo use of therapeutic agents for prevention or treatment of EHV-1 in horses. Outcomes assessed included measures related to clinical outcomes that reflect symptomatic EHV-1 infection or virus infection. We evaluated risk of bias and performed a GRADE evaluation of the quality of evidence for interventions. A total of 7009 unique studies were identified, of which 9 met the inclusion criteria. Two studies evaluated valacyclovir or small interfering RNAs, and single studies evaluated the use of a Parapoxvirus ovis-based immunomodulator, human alpha interferon, an herbal supplement, a cytosine analog, and heparin. The level of evidence ranged between randomized controlled studies and observational trials. The risk of bias was moderate to high and sample sizes were small. Most studies reported either no benefit or minimal efficacy of the intervention tested. Our review indicates minimal or limited benefit either as a prophylactic or post-exposure treatment for any of the studied interventions in the mitigation of EHV-1-associated disease outcome.

An exploratory research report on brain mineralization in postoperative delirium and cognitive decline.

Delirium is a severe postoperative complication associated with poor overall and especially neurocognitive prognosis. Altered brain mineralization is found in neurodegenerative disorders but has not been studied in postoperative delirium and postoperative cognitive decline. We hypothesized that mineralization-related hypointensity in susceptibility-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (SWI) is associated with postoperative delirium and cognitive decline. In an exploratory, hypothesis-generating study, we analysed a subsample of cognitively healthy patients ≥65 years who underwent SWI before (N = 65) and 3months after surgery (N = 33). We measured relative SWI intensities in the basal ganglia, hippocampus and posterior basal forebrain cholinergic system (pBFCS). A post hoc analysis of two pBFCS subregions (Ch4, Ch4p) was conducted. Patients were screened for delirium until the seventh postoperative day. Cognitive testing was performed before and 3months after surgery. Fourteen patients developed delirium. After adjustment for age, sex, preoperative cognition and region volume, only pBFCS hypointensity was associated with delirium (regression coefficient [90% CI]: B = -15.3 [-31.6; -0.8]). After adjustments for surgery duration, age, sex and region volume, perioperative change in relative SWI intensities of the pBFCS was associated with cognitive decline 3months after surgery at a trend level (B = 6.8 [-0.9; 14.1]), which was probably driven by a stronger association in subregion Ch4p (B = 9.3 [2.3; 16.2]). Brain mineralization, particularly in the cerebral cholinergic system, could be a pathomechanism in postoperative delirium and cognitive decline. Evidence from our studies is limited because of the small sample and a SWI dataset unfit for iron quantification, and the analyses presented here should be considered exploratory.

Alleviation of Poverty Through Panchayat Raj Institutions: A Critical Study of Challenges and Prospects in Karnataka, India

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to: Analyse the role of Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) in alleviating poverty in Karnataka, India. Identify the challenges faced by PRIs in implementing poverty alleviation programs. Explore potential solutions to overcome these challenges and improve program effectiveness. Provide recommendations for strengthening the role of PRIs in poverty alleviation efforts.&#x0D;  &#x0D; Theoretical reference: This paper draws on several theoretical frameworks, including: heories of poverty alleviation, focusing on the role of local governance and community participation. Theories of decentralization and the devolution of power to local governments. Theories of social justice and equity, emphasizing the need to address the root causes of poverty. Theories of sustainable development, highlighting the importance of integrating economic, social, and environmental considerations.&#x0D;  &#x0D; Method: This research is primarily a doctrinal study, relying on a variety of primary and secondary sources: Primary Sources: Statutory enactments: Constitution of India, 1950, Central Government Schemes implemented by PRIs, The Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj Act, 1993. Policy documents: National Rural Development Policy, Karnataka State Rural Development Policy, Poverty alleviation scheme guidelines.&#x0D;  &#x0D; Secondary Sources: Statistical analysis: Government reports and data sets, Research reports and surveys, Research publications: Peer-reviewed articles and books on poverty alleviation, local governance, and development. Case studies: Examples of successful poverty alleviation programs implemented by PRIs.&#x0D;  &#x0D; Results: This research identified several key challenges faced by PRIs in implementing poverty alleviation programs in Karnataka: Corruption: Misuse of funds and resources hinders the effectiveness of programs and prevents benefits from reaching the intended beneficiaries. Caste: Deep-rooted social inequalities limit access to resources and opportunities for marginalized communities. Lack of awareness: Many people remain unaware of available schemes and benefits, leading to underutilization of resources. Limited capacity: PRIs often lack the necessary skills and resources to effectively plan, implement, and monitor programs. Lack of coordination: Poor coordination between different levels of government and stakeholders can lead to delays, duplication of efforts, and inefficient resource allocation. Despite these challenges, the research also identified several promising practices and potential solutions: Transparency and accountability: Initiatives like social audits and public hearings can improve transparency and hold PRI officials accountable for program outcomes. Community participation: Engaging communities in program design and decision-making can ensure programs are relevant and address local needs. Capacity building: Training programs can equip PRI officials with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage programs effectively. Technology and innovation: Utilizing technology can enhance program efficiency, data management, and communication with beneficiaries. Partnerships: Collaborations with NGOs, civil society organizations, and private sector can contribute resources, expertise, and innovation.&#x0D;  &#x0D; Conclusion: PRIs play a crucial role in alleviating poverty in India. While they face numerous challenges, there are also promising solutions and opportunities for improvement. By investing in capacity building, promoting transparency, fostering community participation, and embracing technology and innovation, PRIs can be empowered to become more effective agents of poverty alleviation in Karnataka and beyond.&#x0D; Implications of research: This research has several key implications for policy and practice: The need for strengthened capacity building for PRI officials to improve program planning, implementation, and monitoring. The importance of enhancing transparency and accountability in the allocation and use of resources for poverty alleviation programs. The necessity for increased community participation in program design and decision-making to ensure programs are responsive to local needs and priorities. The need for better coordination between central, state, and local governments to ensure effective implementation of poverty alleviation programs.&#x0D;  &#x0D; Originality/value: This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on poverty alleviation by: Providing a detailed analysis of the role of PRIs in Karnataka, India, a context that is often overlooked in research. Identifying unique challenges faced by PRIs in implementing poverty alleviation programs. Offering practical recommendations for strengthening the role of PRIs and improving program effectiveness. Contributing to the understanding of how local governance can be leveraged to achieve sustainable poverty alleviation.

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Brain Areas Involved, Neurobiological Mechanisms, Diagnoses and Therapies.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), affecting over 2% of the pre-school children population, includes an important fraction of the conditions accounting for the heterogeneity of autism. The disease was discovered 75 years ago, and the present review, based on critical evaluations of the recognized ASD studies from the beginning of 1990, has been further developed by the comparative analyses of the research and clinical reports, which have grown progressively in recent years up to late 2023. The tools necessary for the identification of the ASD disease and its related clinical pathologies are genetic and epigenetic mutations affected by the specific interaction with transcription factors and chromatin remodeling processes occurring within specific complexes of brain neurons. Most often, the ensuing effects induce the inhibition/excitation of synaptic structures sustained primarily, at dendritic fibers, by alterations of flat and spine response sites. These effects are relevant because synapses, established by specific interactions of neurons with glial cells, operate as early and key targets of ASD. The pathology of children is often suspected by parents and communities and then confirmed by ensuing experiences. The final diagnoses of children and mature patients are then completed by the combination of neuropsychological (cognitive) tests and electro-/magneto-encephalography studies developed in specialized centers. ASD comorbidities, induced by processes such as anxieties, depressions, hyperactivities, and sleep defects, interact with and reinforce other brain diseases, especially schizophrenia. Advanced therapies, prescribed to children and adult patients for the control of ASD symptoms and disease, are based on the combination of well-known brain drugs with classical tools of neurologic and psychiatric practice. Overall, this review reports and discusses the advanced knowledge about the biological and medical properties of ASD.

TRENDS IN HONEY CONSUMPTION AND PURCHASING HABITS IN THE EUROPEAN UNION

Honey is a staple food of animal origin, with many beneficial properties, so the study of consumption and purchasing habits is an important issue. The main aim of our research is to present the market situation and conditions of the domestic beekeeping sector from the consumer's point of view. We considered it appropriate to present the beekeeping market because the European Union is the second largest honey producer in the world and Hungary is the largest honey producer in the EU. Thus, global and EU trade changes, market trends and changes in consumer habits are significant factors influencing the domestic situation. The market situation is presented through a review of the relevant domestic and foreign literature, and statistical databases (EU Member States' honey programmes, KSH, OMME, Statista databases and reports) are analysed. The research aims to find out the direction of honey consumption and purchasing patterns and trends in European honey consumption. We chose an online questionnaire survey method to assess consumption and purchasing habits in Hungary and present the results in comparison with similar Hungarian studies. To analyse the situation in Europe, we have collected and analysed relevant research reports, primary and secondary studies from several EU countries. Finally, the data from each country are compared, highlighting similarities and differences.

Personalizing education: the role of adaptive technologies in individualized education

This bibliographic review addressed the issue of personalized education and the role of adaptive technologies in individualized education. The main objective was to analyze how adaptive technologies can be integrated into the educational process to promote personalized teaching, meeting individual student needs and improving learning efficiency. The methodology involved a literature review, focusing on relevant scientific articles, books, and research reports. The results indicated that adaptive technologies, combined with active methodologies and innovative educational practices, are effective in promoting more personalized teaching. However, the implementation of these technologies faces challenges, such as the need for adequate infrastructure and teacher training. The analysis highlighted the importance of educational practices that integrate adaptive technologies for more flexible and student-centered teaching. It was concluded that, despite the challenges, the prospects for successful integration of adaptive technologies are promising and can contribute significantly to more inclusive and effective education.

Optical sensing of 1-Nitronapthlene in ethanol at room temperature using Zn-Im-MOF

In this research report, we have synthesized Zn-Im-MOF using Zinc Nitrate Hexahydrate and 2-ethylimidazole in aqueous solution under certain experimental conditions. Lab synthesis of Zn-Im-MOF has been confirmed through Powder X-ray diffraction technique, Field emission scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared and UV–Visible spectroscopy. After confirmation of optical properties of Zn-Im-MOF using photoluminescence spectroscopy, we have explored 1-Nitronapthlene detection in solution phase. Off-quenching mechanism has been observed during the interaction of MOF with analyte in the range of 0.01–5 ppm in ethanol at room temperature. We have achieved 1.37 ppm limit of detection for 1-nitronapthlene using Zn-Im-MOF.