bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of the new ambulance air exhaust system in reducing aerosol particle concentration
Authors:   , Petrangsan Vasutorn
Published: September 2023

The objective of this work is to assess the effectiveness in reducing airborne particles of the Camfil® CC410-concealed air exhaust system, that is installed in the ER-1 ambulance (a King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital ambulance). This is done by diffusing aerosols into the cabin at the patient’s face position for an injection period (IP) of 1 minute and measuring the aerosol concentration inside the cabin over time. The experiment is conducted for 2 ventilation conditions, when the exhaust system is off (Minimal Ventilation: MV) and at maximum speed (High Ventilation: HV). Density of the aerosol is interpreted in terms of its volume concentration. Time period is counted at the end of the IP.

Aerosol is found to disperse toward the cabin’s frontal part and then throughout the entire cabin shortly after IP. Its spatial distribution is non-uniform with multiple local peaks, differs between the two cases. Particles of different size range is removed from the cabin with different rates. Without an aid from the exhaust system (MV case), larger particles tend to decay relatively faster. To recover aerosol concentration to that ‘comparable’ to the initial (or background) state for the MV case, it takes 16 minutes for 0.5-1 microns, 12 minutes for 1-2.5 microns, and 9 minutes for 2.5-5 microns particles. The background state is reached after 18 minutes for all size ranges. With the aid in the HV case, the decaying period is shortened to about 5 minutes for all aerosol size ranges. During the passive decay (MV), small aerosols tend to aggregate in the rear cabin and larger aerosols in the front (close to the diffusion nozzle), reflecting their “native" dispersion ability (or inability) with respect to their sizes. Aerosol of medium-to-large 1-5 microns range is relatively large at the cabin frontal part (seat 1) but 0.5-1 microns range is large at the cabin rear (seat 5). During the active decay (HV), on the other hand, larger particle is advected toward the middle and rear parts. Small-to-medium-size aerosols at 0.5-2.5 microns is concentrated at the cabin frontal part (seat 2) while that of 2.5-5 microns concentration is peaked in the middle (seat 3) and on average in the rear (seat 5). The air exhaust system is proven satisfactory effective in reducing aerosol concentration in the ambulance cabin. Considering among seats and particle size in this experiment, the system is able to reduce peak aerosol concentrations by 25% and temporal-averaged concentration by 70%.
The development of a wearable device for relieving the lower leg muscles fatigue
Authors:   , Nitirojntanad Warawarin
Published: September 2023

Standing is considered one of the most practical working postures since our limbs have the greatest range of motion. Standing yields plenty of benefits, however, prolonged standing could lead not only to discomfort but also to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). This study aims to design and develop a device that could help relieve muscle fatigue in the lower leg as the effects of prolonged standing as well as to evaluate the proposed device. The basics of fatigue, the consequences of prolonged standing and walking, and a review of the existing interventions to cope with muscle fatigue are used in designing the proposed wearable device. The main design concept is to increase blood circulation in the lower leg muscles using roller massage and compression methods.

An experiment is conducted on four subjects. The physical fatigue was evaluated through surface Electromyography (sEMG) and postural stability, whereas the psychological fatigue was assessed through a questionnaire survey. Indicators used in this assessment include the time-to-fatigue, the mean power frequency (MNF), and the speed of the center of pressure (CoP). The results of this study confirm the competence of the fatigue alleviating methods: massage and compression. The device can reduce discomfort and increase the capable amount of time in prolonged standing tasks. However, the device should be improved by reducing its weight and size in the future.
Comparative response of dendritic cells to pathogenic and non-pathogenic leptospira spp.
Authors:   , Krangvichian Pratomporn
Published: September 2023

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease caused by pathogenic Leptospira species, which consist of three groups and contain 4 subclades: pathogenic strains (P1), intermediate strains (P2), and non-pathogenic strains (S1 and S2). Infection of pathogenic leptospires occurs through contact with contaminated environments. Then, leptospires present in the bloodstream disseminate to target organs. Nowadays, the knowledge of the immune response to pathogenic and non-pathogenic leptospires during early infection is still limited. Due to the limitation of a susceptible host, immunological reagents for hamsters and strains of mice are limited and not available. Dendritic cells are the first cells to encounter leptospires found in the skin, while monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDCs) are found in the bloodstream in inflammatory areas. Therefore, the role of dendritic cells is important for leptospires infection. The major goal of this study is to compare the responses of dendritic cells to pathogenic and non-pathogenic leptospires in susceptible hosts. Five-week-old C3H/HeNJ mice were infected with either 1x103 or 1x106 inoculum dose of Leptospira interrogans serovar Pomona. All infected mice survived and did not develop an acute lethal infection. However, C3H/HeNJ mice infected with 1x106 cells showed kidney colonization of leptospires and pathological changes in the lung and kidney, including kidney fibrosis and small glomerular size. Therefore, C3H/HeNJ mice may be used as an animal model for sublethal leptospirosis.

Human monocyte-derived dendritic cells were used as an in vitro model to study the response of dendritic cells to leptospires. Immature MoDCs phagocytosed a limited number of both pathogenic and non-pathogenic strains. The pathogenic strains significantly induced apoptotic cells, impaired maturation, and increased IL-10 production. MoDC impairment inhibited naive CD4 proliferation, produced IL-10, and induced regulatory T cells. In contrast, the non-pathogenic strains induced MoDC maturation, and increased IL-12p70 and IL-10 production, leading to CD4 proliferation, IFN- γ production, and Th1 cell induction. Moreover, the transcriptome analysis found that the pathogenic strains were associated with genes regulating apoptosis and regulatory T cells, while non-pathogenic strains were associated with genes regulating the maturation of MoDCs and Th1 cells. Therefore, the pathogenic strains might reduce the MoDC maturation and induce T reg, resulting in inefficient elimination of pathogenic leptospiral infection. In contrast, the non-pathogenic strains might increase MoDC maturation and Th1 response, leading to bacterial clearance
Designing an extracorporeal plasma filtration column with specific binding to dengue virions
Authors:   , Thonghong Sasiwimon
Published: September 2023

Dengue infection is one of the major public health concerns and no specific treatment is currently available. An extracorporeal system is one of the alternative treatment in severe dengue patients with impending shock. However, the commercial immunoadsorption devices were size-exclusive, non-selective designed for multipurpose thus not specific for dengue syndrome. This study focuses on establishing the flavivirus-specific (4G2) antibody entrapped into the alginate bead. Results showed that the viral titer reduced more than 90 % after 3 h running on a simulated circuit quantified by reverse transcription qPCR and plaque titration assay. The experiments were repeated with two biological replicates and results were consistent. Moreover, the column showed no specific adsorption to other pathogens inducing systemic infection such as Escherichia coli and Enterovirus A71. This work is the proof-of-concept of a specific viral adsorption using a monoclonal antibody against the viral particle. The system could be improved and optimized to broaden the clinical application to other systemic diseases by replacing the specific antibody or antibodies cocktail.
The synergistic activity of antibiotic combinations against colistin-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii clinical isolates and its mechanisms related to colistin resistance
Authors:   , Srisakul Sukrit
Published: September 2023

The increasing development of colistin resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii clinical isolates is a global concern. Due to the limitation of effective antibiotics, the antibiotic combination therapies are the alternative choices. Here, we investigated the prevalence of colistin resistant A. baumannii (CoR-AB) clinical isolates and their resistance mechanisms, and examined the in vitro synergistic activities of the antibiotic combinations against CoR-AB. Among 341 carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter spp., 317 (92.0%) were identified as A. baumannii by gyrB multiplex PCR. The rate of colistin resistance was 15.1% in A. baumannii isolates with MIC range of 0.125 – 64 mg/L. A total of 30 representative CoR-AB isolates were selected for the studies of colistin resistance mechanisms and synergistic activity of antibiotic combinations. The phosphoethanolamine (pEtN) addition to lipid A was found in 27 of 30 (90%) CoR-AB clinical isolates by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer (MALDI-TOF MS). In PmrC, The N248D mutation was found in 30 CoR-AB isolates. The 22 of 30 (73.3%) CoR-AB isolates harbored identical substitution in 48 amino acid positions and the other 8 isolates harbored different amino acid substitutions. For PmrA, the 4 amino acid stitutions were found in 22 (73.3%) CoR-AB isolates. Twenty-five amino acid substitutions were found in PmrB. Twenty-nine (96.7%) isolates contained the A227V mutation in PmrB that was previously described as the cause of colistin resistance. Alterations of the lipopolysaccharide production enzyme (LpxD) were identified at V3A and E117K (6.7% and 93.3%, respectively). Other mechanisms including overexpression of efflux pumps or mutations in genes associated with lipopolysaccharide production might be associated with colistin resistance in our isolates. The synergistic activities of colistin/sulbactam, colistin/fosfomycin, and sulbactam/fosfomycin combinations were identified in 86.7%, 33.3%, and 70% of CoR-AB isolates, respectively, by checkerboard assay. The time-kill study confirmed the synergistic effect of colistin/sulbactam with various concentration combinations against 6 representative CoR-AB isolates. In conclusion, this study indicated the increasing prevalence of colistin resistance in A. baumannii. The pEtN modification is the major mechanism of colistin resistance, which is contributed to the mutations in PmrC, PmrB, and PmrA proteins. The colistin/sulbactam combination could be used as alternative therapy for CoR-AB infections.
Impact of bacterial DNA in severity of sepsis
Authors:   , Kaewduangduen Warerat
Published: September 2023

Bacterial sepsis can be caused by intestinal damage, leading to the passage of viable bacteria and their components into the circulatory system. Bacterial-free DNA in the blood during sepsis can be derived from bacterial death and intestinal translocation of free DNA in the gut contents. The presence of bacterial DNA in combination with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can lead to more serious outcomes of sepsis. To explore the impact of bacterial-free DNA in sepsis, animal and macrophage experiments were performed. Firstly, the appearance of bacterial-free DNA and bacteriome in the blood was presented in mice with cecal ligation and puncture sepsis. Secondly, injection of LPS with bacterial-free DNA in mice was more severe than LPS injection alone.  Finally, the increased TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 cytokine, and several pro-inflammatory genes (iNOS and IL-1β) in macrophages support the synergy between bacterial DNA and LPS. In conclusion, the presence of bacterial-free DNA in sepsis was partly due to the degradation of viable bacteria in blood and the translocation of free DNA from the gut contents resulted in the profound inflammation. These data support the importance of free DNA in the blood during sepsis.
Effect of dielectric barrier discharge plasma hydrogenation on oxidation stability of biodiesel derived from vegetable oils
Authors:   , Kongprawes Grittima
Published: September 2023

A parallel-plate type dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma was utilized to produce partially hydrogenated fatty acids methyl ester (PH-FAME) derived from soybean and palm FAME. PH-FAME exhibits improved oxidation resistance, resulting in a longer storage time and a delay in changing fuel properties. The DBD plasma reaction occurred at atmospheric pressure and ambient temperature without a catalyst. The best condition for 35 mL of soybean FAME hydrogenation was using 25% H2 at ambient temperature for 5.5 h. An increase in saturated and monounsaturated FAMEs corresponded to a reduction of iodine value from 128 to 67.4.  This condition created trans fatty acids of about 3.67%. The oxidation stability increased from 2.13 to 10 h and the cloud point increased from -1 to 11°C. As for 300 mL PH-palm FAME production, the optimal condition was 100 W input power, 1 mm gas gap size, and 80% H2 at ambient temperature for 5 h. The iodine value decreased from 50.2 to 43.5 without trans fatty acid formation. The oxidation stability was enhanced to 20 from 12.8 h, while the cloud point rose from 13.5 to 16˚C. The production costs of PH-FAME based on soybean and palm FAME were 36.96 and 8.39 baht per liter, respectively. The DBD plasma is one of the alternative methods that can be employed in the hydrogenation process, but it is necessary to be improved to obtain a reasonable production cost.
Investigation of pm2.5 dispersion in Din Daeng district, Bangkok using computational fluid dynamics modeling
Authors:   , Tancharoen Amintra
Published: September 2023

Din Daeng is a small and densely populated district of Bangkok with two major expressways in the area. PM2.5 concentrations in Din Daeng district often exceed both daily and annual standards of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) was applied to investigate the effects of the metropolitan characteristics and traffic volumes on the dispersion of PM2.5 in Din Daeng district. The turbulent flow was analyzed using the Standard k-ε model. There are two scenarios in this simulation study. One is to investigate the consequences of having the expressways and their resulting PM2.5 emissions. The other is to examine the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the city lockdown which affected the traffic volumes. The presence of the expressways in Din Daeng district was demonstrated to enhance PM2.5 concentrations. The presence of the expressway increased the concentration of PM2.5 by approximately 3.4 times compared to the case of no expressways. The COVID-19 pandemic seemed to have an impact on the concentration of PM2.5 during the city lockdown. During the city lockdown, the concentration of PM2.5 was reduced by approximately 63% compared to the normal period.
Effects of low degree of high ambient temperature on neural pathways from median preoptic nucleus to arcuate nucleus in related to food intake.
Authors:   , Suwannapaporn Pornsiri
Published: September 2023

High ambient temperature (HTa) is one important environmental factor that decreases food intake (FI).  It is well accepted that high degree HTa induced heat stress decreased FI by the activation of corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) via hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis. However, short-term low-degree HTa exposure has been demonstrated to decrease FI earlier than activated physiological and stress responses. This effect was related to the neuronal connection between the median preoptic nucleus (MnPO) and arcuate nucleus (Arc). Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effect of short-term low-degree HTa exposure on the activity of hypothalamic Arc in regarding to FI, and the involvement of neuronal connection between the MnPO and Arc. It was firstly hypothesized that proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons in the Arc can mediate the reduction of FI under the effect of short-term low-degree HTa exposure. Second, the neuronal pathway from MnPO to Arc may related with this effect.  In order to test the hypothesis, the present study refined the condition of short-term low-degree HTa. This study demonstrated that the short-term low-degree HTa exposure (90 min) based on the control ambient temperature at 23˚C (CTa = 23˚C) and the HTa at 30˚C. The bout of CTa and HTa conditions is 7°C temperature difference (ΔT = 7 ˚C). The results showed that rats exposed to this condition decreased FI without changing in rectal temperature and hematocrit. The effect of short-term low-degree HTa exposure on the Arc could enhanced the number of c-Fos expression, POMC positive neurons and POMC neurons containing c-Fos positive nuclei in the Arc under feeding condition. Moreover, the injection with POMC receptor antagonist (SHU9119) into the lateral ventricle in the rat brain could reverse the effect of short-term low-degree HTa exposure on FI. Finally, to prove the neuronal connection of MnPO-Arc in related with the effect of short-term low-degree HTa exposure. The fluorogold (FG) retrograde tracer was injected to the Arc. Seven days after FG injection found FG-retrograde labeled neurons in the MnPO. The present of FG-labeled neurons in the MnPO imply that the Arc can receive the afferent signal from the MnPO. In conclusion, this study concludes that the Arc POMC neurons are a crucial hypothalamic nucleus on FI under the effect of low-degree HTa exposure. The effect of low degree HTa exposure in reduction on FI is mediated in part by activation of Arc POMC neurons and may relate with the MnPO-Arc pathway.
Effectiveness of positive deviance, a behavior change approach, to improve knowledge, attitude and practices on dengue prevention and control in selected slums in Islamabad, Pakistan : a mixed-method study
Authors:   , Shafique Muhammad
Published: September 2023

This is the first practical application of positive deviance on dengue in the two selected low-income slums of Islamabad which was conducted during June-October 2020. A total of 112 participants (56 for intervention and 56 for the control group) participated in the study. The intervention arm received the positive deviance intervention through the identified positive deviance role models during the regular PD sessions, role plays, illustration competitions, and songs for two months. Three surveys were conducted, before the intervention, after two months, and after four months to assess the changes in knowledge, attitude, and practices. At the baseline, no statistically significant differences in dengue knowledge were found between control (M=8.93, SD=3.107) and intervention (M=10.09, SD=3.549) groups (p=0.071). After two months, the intervention group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in dengue knowledge (M=19.00, SD=6.093) compared to the control group (M=13.13, SD=4.953) (p<0.001). After another two months at the end-line, dengue knowledge not only persisted but continued to improve with a statistically significant difference between control (M=14.30, SD=4.944) and intervention group (M=25.00, SD=9.607) (p<0.001). After two months, there were no statistically significant differences in dengue attitudes and practice between control and intervention groups. However, after four months, attitude towards dengue disease improved significantly in the intervention group (M=28.34, SD=3.604) compared to the control group (M=26.52, SD=4.343) (p=0.018). Similarly, after four months, at the end-line, practice regarding dengue disease improved significantly in the intervention group (M=13.77, SD=2.216) compared to the control group (M=11.37, SD=1.629) (p<0.001). The study revealed that positive deviance intervention had a significant impact on dengue knowledge, attitudes, and practices in the target communities.
Association between physical activity and mental health among university students in Bangladesh : a cross sectional study
Authors:   , Sultana Sanjida
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Mental health is considered one of the most significant topics of public health as it makes up an integral part of a person’s ability to lead a fulfilling life. University students are one of the most vulnerable groups to be affected by mental health disorders due to a change in their life and societal pressure. Lifestyle modifications like physical activity can be one way to combat these Mental Health problems. Although a lot of research has been carried out to analyze the health impact of Physical exercise, impact of it on Mental Health still lags, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic has caused people to live a sedentary lifestyle which could be a risk factor for Poor Mental Health among the population during this time.  Objective: This study aimed 1) to identify the prevalence of Mental Health (Depression, Anxiety and Stress) and Physical activity during the pandemic time and 2) to assess the association  between mental health (Depression, Stress, and Anxiety) and physical activity among  Bangladeshi University Students.  Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted between 23rd May to 15 June at BRAC University, Bangladesh. The questionnaire was in google form which was shared to several social media groups. Participants were selected through convenience sampling, totaling 413 students Results: The prevalence of Depression was 67.1%, Anxiety was 68.0%and  stress was 59.8%. It was found that Gender, Sleep, Relationship with family, Having toxic friends and family members, loneliness and resilience were associated with Mental Health (Depression, Stress and Anxiety). The multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that the sedentary behavior was significantly associated with depression (OR 1.97, 95%CI 1.08 - 3.58).  It was also found that vigorous PA and sedentary behavior were associated with stress (OR 1.89, 95%CI 1.25 - 2.86 and OR 1.85, 95%CI 1.15 – 2.99), respectively. Discussion: The findings of the survey illustrated that a significantly high number of University students have symptoms related to Mental Health Disorders such as Depression, Anxiety and Stress. Additionally, a significant proportion of the population is also not involved in recommended Physical Activity by WHO. Psychosocial support and counseling sessions should be provided by the University to help the status of these students. Additionally, the university should introduce compulsory Physical Activity to boost students PA status and lower Sedentary behavior.
Effectiveness of blended learning program for cyber sexual harassment prevention among female high school students in Bangkok, Thailand
Authors:   , Santre Siriporn
Published: September 2023

Cyber sexual harassment is increasing to be one of public health problem among youths. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of blended learning program on knowledge, attitudes, intention to cope with cyber sexual harassment, behavioral coping strategies, and cyber sexual harassment among female high school students in Bangkok, Thailand. A quasi-experimental study design was conducted between May 2021 to October 2021. Total 112 students (56 in intervention and 56 in control group) were selected. The intervention group participated in blended learning program for 12 weeks, while the control group did not receive any program. Blended learning program based on theory of planned behavior and theory of empowerment comprises classroom activities, i.e., brainstorming, group discussion, games, and quizzes and online activities in Facebook group. Students were evaluated for three times at baseline, after the intervention (3 months), and the follow-up period (2 months) using self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, paired samples t-test, independent sample t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and repeated-measure ANOVA were used for data analysis. The results showed that sociodemographic characteristics and internet usage of female high school students in both groups at baseline were not different. The mean score of the intervention group on knowledge, attitude, intention, and behavioral coping strategies after intervention, and follow-up were higher than baseline and the control group with statistically significant difference (p-value < 0.05). Whereas the mean score of cyber sexual harassment after the program and follow up were lower than baseline and the control group with statistically significant difference (p-value < 0.05). These findings demonstrated the effectiveness of blended learning program among female high school students. Moreover, the mean score also sustained to week 20 follow-up. This program can be beneficial to survivors, increasing in personal empowerment and a decrease in the frequency of cyber sexual harassment experiences.
Depolymerization of kraft lignin to phenolic compounds by electrochemical advanced oxidation in microreactor
Authors:   , Rittirong Chawakorn
Published: September 2023

This research focuses on the depolymerization of kraft lignin to phenolic compounds that are valuable and useful in various industries. Depolymerization is performed using an electrochemical advanced oxidation process with the hydroxyl radicals. In this process, microreactors are used. It consists of a graphite anode and a stainless steel cathode. The results of the variables studied were current density (3.7 and 5.55 A/m2), residence time (100-400 s), base pH (9), the base difference (sodium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide). The experiment found that the major product is octadecamide and the minor product propyl guaiacol is increased when the current increases. On the other hand, some of the minor products increased when the decrease in current. However, residence time increases, both major and minor products decrease. In the base condition, The resulting octadecamide increased from increasing current and residence time. Give the major product is 1,3 dioxane and found the new minor products have been increased. In other words, increasing the current and residence time enhances the formation of hydroxyl radicals, resulting in a decrease of phenolic compounds. On the other hand, the base conditions can decrease the hydroxyl radicals, Especially potassium hydroxide. In addition, the study of dimer products for describing the pathway mechanism of phenolic compounds in microreactors.
Work-related musculoskeletal disorders, psychosocial factors, work productivity, and work ability among Garment factory workers in Myanmar
Authors:   , Oo Tun
Published: September 2023

Background - Work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSD) are the most common occupational problem worldwide. The magnitude of WRMSD is worsened by the physical and psychological factors in different occupations. The global burden of WRMSD comprises the second most common cause of disability; most frequent back pain, measured by Years lived with disability (YLDs) worldwide. Workability also plays a crucial role that links with productivity and WRMSD. Musculoskeletal disorders are also one of the most common causes of YLDS in the working-age group (20-54Years) take in more than 45% of the proportion. Sewing machine operators are one of the common occupational sectors that may encounter a high prevalence of MSDs. For the quality of life of workers and national productivity, we should understand the occupational hazards and their preventive approach in this working sector. Indeed, there is very little research on the occurrence of WRMSDs related to psychosocial, work productivity, and workability among the Myanmar sewing machine operators. This study aims to find the associations among working ability, productivity status, psychosocial factors, and percentage of work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders of sewing machine operators in the garment factory.

Methodology – This is a cross-sectional study that contains personal factors questionnaire, standard questionnaires, and data is collected by self-administered type which was conducted from September to October 2021. 370 Participants were selected from Shwepaukkan Industrial Zone, Myanmar. A multistage sampling method was used and eligible participants were invited to this study. University Ethical Approved was also obtained.

Result - The study enrolled 370 sewing operators who are more than 40 years of age. The prevalence of WRMSD in at least one part of the body was reported around 90 percent of the study population. The study found a significant association between WRMSD and age, education. As regards psychosocial risk, and most of the reported cases are low psychological job demand, high job control, and high social support. In addition, sewing operators responded that their job has high physical demand. There is no significant reported absenteeism and 35% presenteeism rate within one week. The moderate workability rate is about 66.5 % followed by poor workability with 18.4%. The logistic regression model showed that gender (AOR=0.130; 95%CI 0.020-0.969), job stress (AOR=8.257; 95%CI 1.465-46.550), physical demand (AOR=4.702; 95%CI 1.172-18.862) and productivity (AOR=5.893; 95%CI 1.393-24.920) are a significant predictor of WRMSD. This findings can be helped to guide the development of the working situations of sewing operators in a garment factory and also help in developing regulations for the well-being of workers in occupational health sectors
Compilation, explanation and restoration of Moh Phon's herbal formulations for skin conditions
Authors:   , Ye Qiaoling
Published: September 2023

Moh Phon’s traditional Thai medicine formularies were developed, compiled and recorded by Abhakara Kiartivongse or Moh Phon until 1915. This study aimed to elucidate traditional Thai medical wisdom regarding to Moh Phon formularies, especially for skin diseases. Herbal crude drugs in Moh Phon’s traditional Thai medicine formularies for skin diseases were compiled and authenticated for their vernacular and scientific names. The descriptions of plant species, ethnomedical uses, pharmacological activities and active constituents and toxicities were scientifically reviewed and established. The prevalence of plant species used in the formularies was analyzed. The formularies for 26 symptoms or diseases in the skin were found in 32 chapters in Moh Phon’s traditional Thai medicine formularies. The methods of using were pound, rasp, decoction, crush, crumble, digestion, sqeeze, cut , mix, chew, burn, fried, and apply, poultice, drink, cover, rub, shower, eat. A total of 66 species and 57 genera were characterized and were divided into 54 dicotyledons (31 families), 12 of monocotyledons (8 families). The most frequent botanical families were Arecaceae (18%), Fabaceae/Leguminosae (14%), Alliaceae (12%), Solanaceae (11%), and Zingiberaceae (11%). Frequent species were Cocos nucifera L. (11%) and followed by Citrus aurantifolia Swingle (5%) and Allium sativum L. (4%), Allium ascalonicum L. (4%), Cassia alata (L.) Roxb (4%). The scientific information of Moh Phon traditional Thai medicine formularies for skin diseases was provided. Plant species were characterized for crude drug authentication and quality of medication.
Sino-Burmese overland trade under dual-overlordship system in Qing dynasty with special focus on tea trade in Sipsong Panna
Authors:   , Bai Jingli
Published: September 2023

Overland trade had played a significant role in the interactions among China, Southeast Asia and South Asia for centuries. Though maritime trading raised in fifteenth century overwhelmingly attracts more attention from scholars, overland route was far from inconsiderable. Continental commercial intercourse essentially affected the demography, politics and also modernization process of Southern China and mainland Southeast Asia to a large range. During 17th to early 20th century, represented by several Shan states, Sino-Burmese frontier trade reached another peak. Enormous commodities carried by caravans shuttled on Tai leaders’ domains. By tributing to both China and Myanmar courts, Tai leaders received recognition from both sides, which helped them won unique position in cross-border trading. In this thesis, combining historical materials from China, British early exploders’ records and also local chronicle, author tried to elaborate how unusual local administrative system in this region led to Shan States’ distinguished commercial position in Sino-Burmese trade, also to explore the role of Tai leaders in local business activities.

Differ from previous works, taking the tea trade as an interesting example, author as an indigenous people from Shan state Sipsong Panna, hold neither Sinocentric nor Eurocentric perspectives to analyze the development and evolution of trading in this region. Revealed by author’s studies, Dual-overlordship system adopted in these frontier Shan states brought this region an interesting economic ecology, which made it a welcomed “middle ground” for merchants. Along with the business journey of tea, we can learn how trade was conducted under Dual-overlordship system, from the ethnic planter to local highest ruler Chaofa, then Han or Muslim merchants, as well as Chinese and Burmese officials. Commodities come far from China and India like metal and spice were transported by traditional caravans or river transport, then re-distributed traded here; tea, cotton and other local merchandise were sent out by the same way. Culture and technology followed commerce met and merged here.
Taiwan as a norm entrepreneur : advocating people-centred values in Southeast Asia
Authors:   , Chou Ssu-yu
Published: September 2023

This research looks at the relations between Taiwan and Southeast Asia under President Tsai Ing-wen's first term (2016-2020) as her administration launched the people-centred New Southbound policy by analysing Taiwan's political discourse and interviewing shareholders in the policy projects. It argues that Taiwan acts as a norm entrepreneur framing its initiative and persuading targeted countries to join hands in development matters for people's well-being in the region. In turn, the people-centred rebranding is expected to justify and normalise cooperation at non- and semi-governmental levels with Taiwan without violating the one-China policy since the policy mainly aims to forge socio-economic partnerships. However, the interview data showed that the policy contributes to Taiwan's positive image, visibility and presence in the region but still faces limitations in spilling over the cooperative relations to the governmental level, confirming China's dominance in Southeast Asia. Given this situation, this research further suggests that the Tsai administration needs to recalibrate the New Southbound policy's people-centred agendas, making Taiwan more relevant in the region.
A decision making model for horse transportation
Authors:   , Lertratanachai Siengsaw
Published: September 2023

This study developed a mathematical model to select the most appropriate mode of equestrian horse transportation, which balanced between the costs of transportation and horse welfare. The study was divided into two stages. The first stage compared the stress level of transported horses using cortisol as well as heart rate, while the second stage developed a mathematical model that balanced horse health and transportation cost. This research used six horses that were transported by different types of vehicles, i.e., air-conditioned or non-air-conditioned, with or without space, trucks, and trailers with or without space. The horses were transported for 5 hours, covering about 250 kilometers. Horses were transported twice a week for three weeks. The cortisol level and heart rate were collected. The results showed that different modes of transportation resulted in different levels of stress in horses. A mathematical model was constructed to minimize transportation costs as well as penalty costs associated with poor horse welfare. The decision variables included the type of transportation vehicle and the number of horses transported in the transportation vehicle. The model was easily implemented and well received by horse owners, who were able to select the most appropriate mode of transportation for their horses.
The Effects of Service Quality on Customer’s Satisfaction in Low-Cost Fitness Center in Semarang, Indonesia
Authors:   , Suyatman Suyatman
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to analyze the level and the effects of service quality on customer satisfaction. The research was designed as a quantitative study with a quota sampling technique (non-probability sampling). A total of 420 respondents were collected from 14 fitness centers. Data were analyzed by percentage, mean, standard deviation and regression analysis. The results revealed that assurance, empathy, reliability, and responsiveness of perceived service quality had a higher value than expected service quality. On the other hand, tangible was the only dimension fell short of customers’ expectation. The results indicate a positive relationship between service quality and overall satisfaction. Four variables; namely tangible dimension, empathy dimension, personal class, and membership positively related to the overall satisfaction.
Innovation in evaluating and recommending fashion clothing sellers on live streaming
Authors:   , Chandrruangphen Earth
Published: September 2023

Today, many sellers use live streaming to directly present and sell fashion clothes to customers. The approach is very popular in Thailand because it is convenient, cost effective, and could reach a large number of customers. This research has made various academic and practical contributions.

In terms of academic contribution, it explores live streaming shopping criteria that influence customer intention to watch and purchase fashion clothes. The results show that, among 20 different criteria, there are three criteria with significant positive influence: product quality, price transparency, and broadcast timing pre-announcement; and three criteria with weak positive influence: seller image, seller Facebook page, and product pricing. In terms of practical contribution, it uses the resulting criteria in designing and developing an innovative live streaming rating website (LSRW). LSRW is a repository of live streaming sellers that allows customers to provide ratings and reviews on them. This research has developed LSRW prototype and perform both the technical evaluation on the recommendation model and the user acceptance test. Based on the results, there is a 63-81% probability that users have favorable attitudes and likely intentions to use LSRW. This research finishes its study with detailed commercialization plan of LSRW and future recommendations.
The impact of tourism on urban renewal through stakeholders’ perspective: A case of post-earthquake urban renewal in Kathmandu Valley in the wake of COVID 19
Authors:   , Maharjan Shitu
Published: September 2023

In an increasingly urbanized world, there is a growing awareness of the impact of disasters in urban environments and of the complex challenges in rebuilding urban areas following large-scale disasters (Daly, et al., 2017). A magnitude 7.8 earthquake and its subsequent aftershocks struck Nepal almost seven years ago on April 25, 2015, triggering a huge humanitarian disaster. The earthquake caused significant socioeconomic destruction, from which the country is yet to recover. The initial years of post-earthquake rehabilitation were slow; eventually, it picked up speed and accomplished some important reconstruction in historic sites. However, not all locations received the same amount of attention. Currently, with the covid-19 outbreak, Nepal is engulfed in yet another unprecedented crisis. The purpose of this study is to recognize the effect of tourism on urban renewal projects before and after covid and analyze the impact of covid-19 pandemic on post-earthquake urban renewal efforts in historical commercial areas of Kathmandu Valley. Tourism has been one of the driving forces for the urban renewal efforts in Nepal, but the epidemic has caused the industry to collapse. Today, as the country continues to battle the coronavirus pandemic, all the urban renewal works has been halted and there is hardly any tourist in the country. Now, the dilemma is whether the country should continue to chase tourist arrival numbers and yearly foreign currency profits or strive to shift the focus to something other than tourism in order to continue the urban renewal works. For making the entire system more transparent qualitative system mapping is used in the research. The research will be qualitative explanatory type. Case study research will be conducted at a historical commercial area of Kathmandu Valley centering Kathmandu Durbar Square. As part of a case study in Kathmandu valley, expert interviews, qualitative data analysis and system mapping will be conducted. The primary data for this research will be collected by semi structured interviews with the stakeholders and other relatable personnel. Using these data, a new approach to system mapping with be developed which will serve as a foundation for future strategy implementation and emphasize the importance of understanding the influence of covid on urban renewal and tourism in Kathmandu. Lastly, the outcomes of this research will provide useful knowledge and solutions to key stakeholders, allowing them to make wise decisions for the future of urban renewal and Nepal tourism in the light of covid 19.
Prevalence of canine atopic dermatitis and distribution of causative allergens in Bangkok
Authors:   , Sornsanit Sopon
Published: September 2023

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a pruritic allergic skin disease caused by an overreaction to environmental allergens. The diagnosis of CAD is made on the basis of the patient's history, physical examination, and exclusion of other pruritic skin diseases. Allergen-specific IgE serology (ASIS) is one of the most frequently recommended tests in veterinary dermatology for identifying causative allergens. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of CAD and the types of allergens that cause it in atopic dogs using ASIS in the Bangkok metropolitan area. The study was divided into two sections. Between 2015 and 2019, 383 dogs were diagnosed with CAD by a veterinarian at the Small Animal Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University. We collected data on the sexes, breeds, distribution of lesions, housing environment, and concurrent disease in CAD dogs. Among these dogs, 28 CAD dogs were tested using the HESKA veterinary diagnostic laboratory's Canine ALLERCEPT® (environmental panel). Canine ALLERCEPT® panel results were classified into six allergen groups (Yeast, Flea saliva, House dust mite, Grass, Weed, and Tree). The prevalence of canine atopic dermatitis was found to be 1.16 percent in this study. The allergens responsible for CAD were house dust mite (75.00%), grass (62.14%), tree (46.43%), weed (47.45%), yeast (39.39%) and flea saliva (21.43%). The findings indicate that CAD is the most prevalent skin disease and is frequently encountered in general practice. The diagnosis of canine atopic dermatitis is quite complicated, but lesion distribution and recurrent concurrent disease may provide diagnostic clues. The ASIS is the most effective method for identifying allergens that cause pruritus and plan to do immunotherapy.
Roles of BALB/c mice and Aedes mosquitoes in the transmission of duck Tembusu virus
Authors:   , Yurayart Nichapat
Published: September 2023

Duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV) is an emerging flavivirus that causes severe nervous and systemic diseases in avian hosts. The virus has been classified into three clusters, and the predominant cluster in Thailand is cluster 2.1. The pathogenesis of the virus has been extensively studied in avian hosts but not in mammalian hosts. Therefore, the first objective of this dissertation was to investigate the viral pathogenesis in mammalian hosts. Six-week-old BALB/c mice were intracerebrally and subcutaneously inoculated with Thai DTMUV to examine clinical signs, pathological change, viral load, and virus distribution. Results demonstrated that Thai DTMUV caused an acute severe disease, and it was a cause of death in BALB/c mice inoculated by the intracerebral route. Infected mice showed both systemic and neurological symptoms. Pathological changes and virus distribution were observed in all tested organs. Viral load in the brain was significantly higher than in other organs (p<0.05). However, virus shedding was not recorded in saliva and feces. The findings suggested that Thai DTMUV has the potential to cause the threatening disease in mammalian hosts. In addition, one of the virus transmission routes is mosquito bites, but the interaction between Thai DTMUV and Aedes (Ae.) mosquito, which is a mammalian host preferred-mosquito, is lacking. Thus, the second objective was to examine the vector competence of Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus mosquitoes for Thai DTMUV. Results indicated that both Aedes mosquito species could serve as vectors for Thai DTMUV with minimum viral titer in a blood meal of 106 TCID50/mL. When Aedes mosquitoes received more viral titer (107 TCID50/mL), their competence significantly increased (p<0.05). In contrast, both Aedes species did not support the development of the isolated Thai DTMUV viruses from BALB/c mice because their titer was less than 106 TCID50/mL. The third objective was to investigate the viral genomes that were isolated from BALB/c mice, Ae. aegypti, and Ae. albopictus mosquitoes compared with the original virus. A point mutation of nucleotide and the amino acid was found in all isolated DTMUV from Ae. aegypti saliva, while other viruses were similar to the positive virus. In summary, our results provide important information about Thai DTMUV in mammalian hosts, mosquito vectors, and virus genome that were useful for preventing and controlling the disease in both avian and mammalian hosts.