Biofuel Research Team

Some Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) systems allow the retrieval of detailed data for each sperm analyzed during a capture routine. By "capture routine," we refer to the process of recording a video sequence for a defined period, typically one or two seconds. The data obtained include traditional kinematic or motility parameters, such as VCL (Curvilinear Velocity), VAP (Average Path Velocity), VSL (Straight-Line Velocity), LIN (Linearity), STR (Straightness), BCF (Beat Cross Frequency), and ALH (Amplitude of Lateral Head Displacement). Additional parameters may also be available, depending on the CASA system's manufacturer and software version. Since motility parameters are derived from coordinate data, they serve as condensed representations of sperm kinematic behavior. Consequently, the coordinate data contains a wealth of additional information, enabling not only the reconstruction of motility parameters but also the trajectories followed by individual sperm. It is important to note that these trajectories cannot be reconstructed solely from motility parameters. Thus, we emphasize that each trajectory has an associated set of motility parameters (Rodríguez-Martínez et al., 2023). Despite the inherent richness of coordinate data, current methodologies for identifying kinematic subpopulations in datasets have relied exclusively on motility parameters (Ramón and Martínez-Pastor, 2018). Coordinates can also be used to reconstruct the trajectories of individual sperm analyzed in a CASA system. These trajectory images can subsequently serve as input for machine learning algorithms, which can cluster the images into groups (subpopulations). These subpopulations can then be statistically characterized based on their associated motility parameters. In this protocol, we describe how we constructed a coordinate dataset to serve as input for machine learning algorithms, specifically the one implemented by Rodríguez-Martínez et al. (2023). The data corresponds to coordinates of hamster sperm analyzed using a CASA system (SMAS, Version 3.18), with a capture speed set at 50 fps for one second (Fujinoki M, personal communication). Each capture routine in the SMAS system generates two files: the first contains motility parameter data, while the second contains the coordinates of the detected sperm. The procedure comprises three stages: (1) acquisition and initial adjustments, (2) adding identifiers, and (3) constructing the final dataset. Files are saved with the “.ods” extension (compatible with LibreOffice Calc), and the readODS library is used to import them into the analysis workflow.

Balance is referred to as a state of equilibrium where forces of agonist and antagonistic muscles are equal. This is particularly relevant in the practice of Goju-Ryu Karate-Do, a martial art style with combinations of hard and soft techniques. Particularly, karate stances not only depend on technical aspects but also on the ability to achieve a centered posture. In this narrative review, we aim to integrate the existing knowledge about alignment parameters of the spine to various stances in Goju-Ryu Karate-Do to improve biomechanical understanding, allow technical modifications, and consequently enhance positive training experience. Balance is constantly challenged during the interplay of accelerated movements and subsequent controlled postures (Japanese: “Kamae”). This requires continuous neuromuscular coordination to maintain the body’s equilibrium. In particular, the body’s center of gravity, which is located around the second sacral vertebra in a standing position, needs to be kept within Dubousset’s “efficiency cone” for low energy consumption and minimal fatigue. This state is primarily maintained by aligning the spine, the pelvis, and the lower extremities, which is a result of complex biomechanical interactions of various spinopelvic parameters. Applying these concepts of Dubousset to stances in Goju-Ryu Karate-Do helps to explain why during the aging process or natural degeneration, technical modifications are needed to guarantee an optimal training experience in senior or disabled practitioners of Karate-Do. Biomechanical parameters of the spinopelvic axis are crucial in mastering the art of Goju-Ryu Karate-Do. Only with a balanced stance and an optimally situated center of gravity, a block or attack may be successful and movement strategies effective. However, technical modifications of stances must be considered in aged or disabled karateka to allow a sustained training experience.

The Basic Hotel & Restaurant Accounting course is a core component of hospitality education but is often perceived as difficult and complex by students. This study aims to identify the challenges faced by hospitality students in learning accounting and to explore strategies that can improve their academic performance. The research involved 42 third-semester Hotel Operation students from Sungai Petani Community College. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire adapted from validated instruments. The findings reveal several critical issues, including reliance on traditional teaching methods, limited student-faculty interaction, inadequate assessment structures, low student engagement, and a lack of industry-relevant resources. Students also reported insufficient feedback and a disconnect between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Additionally, poor study habits and negative attitudes toward accounting were found to hinder learning. The study recommends adopting student-centred teaching approaches, integrating technology into instruction, utilizing interactive learning methods, and developing customized course materials tailored to the hospitality context. These strategies aim to make accounting education more accessible, relevant, and engaging for hospitality students.

This manuscript is a summary of archaeological studies conducted in the ancient Kedah area, covering about 1,000 km². The conclusions of the study were identified by compiling data from written and navigational records as well as the archaeological record itself. The ancient Kedah Kingdom played an important role as a maritime kingdom in Southeast Asia since the 6th century BC. The jetty structure, port management, and the location of trade artifacts, which represent a trade area, provide evidence of ancient Kedah's involvement in trade activities. The iron smelting workshops at Sungai Batu Archaeological Complex and the bead and pottery manufacturing centers in Sungai Mas and Pengkalan Bujang provide evidence of the ancient Kedah industry. Moreover, the evidence of ritual structures, the Vimana-Mandapa (Hindu temple), the Buddhist temple, and sculptures clearly demonstrate the development of religion within this ancient Kedah civilization. This research clearly demonstrates that the ancient Kedah civilization conducted trade transactions with the early civilizations of the world, enabling foreign civilizations to recognize this kingdom as a major producer of iron ingot. This recognition was based on the nickname given to ancient Kedah by these civilizations, which means either iron or port. This indicates that foreign civilizations have recognized ancient Kedah as a port area that exports iron ingots of a global standard.

Effective leadership is essential for achieving success in private international schools. Beyond academic achievements, organizational success is reflected in teacher retention, financial stability, and institutional reputation, which signify the overall health and sustainability of these institutions. As international education becomes more competitive and culturally diverse, there is an urgent need for visionary, flexible, and capable school leaders. This research aimed to explore how different leadership styles—transformational, transactional, and distributed affected performance measures in a representative sample of private international schools from China, Thailand, Singapore, and the USA. Utilizing a strong mixed-methods approach, this research quantitatively analyzes data from structured surveys and qualitatively assesses information gathered through semi-structured interviews and document analysis. Data from 320 respondents, including teachers, administrators, and school leaders, were supplemented by in-depth interviews with 10 senior education professionals regarding leadership behavior. Document analysis, which included strategic planning and performance reports, was utilized in triangulation and provided an institutional context. The findings suggest that transformational and distributed leadership styles are more effective in achieving organizational excellence, which is characterized by a combination of high academic performance, teacher satisfaction, financial stability, and a positive institutional reputation. These leadership styles effectively motivate teachers and stakeholders while being culturally appropriate. During times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, emotional intelligence, cultural awareness, and strategic vision become crucial for leaders. Those who embody these qualities often achieve better academic results, higher staff retention, and increased stakeholder trust. Some challenges remain, including fragmented regulations, staff diversity, and the pressures of international accreditation standards. This study contributes to the global discourse on educational leadership by presenting empirically grounded, regionally contextualized insights into the dynamics of effective leadership in international schools, with practical implications for school administrators and policymakers. These include recommendations for investment in leadership training, development of cross-cultural competencies, and data-informed decision-making. The study concludes that leadership quality is more than just a matter of management, as it is a strategic imperative for long-term sustainability in an ever-changing world of international education.