bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards an Ethnography of Pagdihon: The Art and Language of Pottery Making in Antique Province, the Philippines
Authors:   University of Antique, Cabrillos Edbert Jay , Cabrillos Weng ,   University of Antique
Published: March 2023

Pottery is a creation of ornamentals, cookware, or material storage devices. Yet, while economic gain is often considered when producing these materials, the artistic and linguistic aspects have been ignored. This study discusses factors influencing the culture, process and language of pottery making, in Bari, Antique, in the Philippines. The study documents the community of pottery makers in the region, and begins to record and expose the efficacy of the language intertwining with the pottery making culture. The ethnography included video and audio recording. The study reveals that environmental factors influence the culture of pottery making in the barangay, and as such, eight main processes emerge during the making of the pottery. Together the other processes, the language used in pottery making is an archaic form of Kinaray-a, the language of the province., suggesting a specialized pottery making.
On the Progress of Phonemic Analysis of Chinese Word Syllables
Authors:   Beijing Normal University, Wang Qing
Published: March 2023

The process of the sound notation of sinographs arose in China to address problems in pronunciations. Attention to this process is almost as old as the use of the sinographs, and thus has marked historical relevance. Throughout this extended period of time, there was no strong appropriate method to convey the pronunciation of sinographs to the learners of the language, despite several attempts. With the design of different methods of sinograph sound notation, that is, direct notation, the fan-qie method, the national sound notation alphabet, and the scheme of the Chinese phonemic alphabet, the analysis of the Chinese word syllable has progressed developmentally, with an increasingly delicate view of segmentation of the Chinese syllable. The latter three methods, which divided the Chinese word syllable in two, three, and even four parts respectively, have been designed under influences of foreign linguistic methods, and for which, the communications between China, and India and European countries have offered an impetus for the progress in Chinese syllabic analysis. This paper thus addresses the development of these models for articulating the phonology of the Chinese word or syllable, by presenting the above models, and by describing their application and appropriacy to the field of Chinese linguistics through an ethnography of language and text.
O potencial do resíduo do café como fonte de geração de energia
Authors:   , Freitas Caroline Piccoli Miranda de
Published: March 2023

O Brasil é o maior produtor e exportador de café do mundo e o estado de Minas Gerais, o maior produtor do país. Contudo, o processamento do café gera uma grande quantidade de resíduos, uma vez que mais de 50% do fruto do café é descartado, além da geração de borra de café após seu processamento e uso. Assim, a valorização dessa matéria orgânica por meio de processos avançados se torna necessária. Deste modo, o objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o potencial energético da casca e da borra de café, através da pirólise catalítica de cloreto de zinco e cloreto de magnésio e não-catalítica da casca de café e da pirólise e liquefação hidrotermal da borra de café. Para isso, a borra e a casca de café foram caracterizadas através de análise termogravimétrica, análise imediata, análise elementar e análise de poder calorífico superior. Para a pirólise catalítica do café, foi realizada a adsorção de 30 g de casca de café com 10% de cloreto de magnésio e cloreto de zinco. A pirólise da casca de café foi realizada a temperaturas de 350 e 500°C para cada ensaio. O maior poder calorífico superior obtido pela fração orgânica do bio-óleo foi obtido para a pirólise da casca de café sem aporte de catalisadores a 500ºC (34,8 ±0,00 MJ kg-1). Em relação ao balanço de energia, o processo de pirólise catalítica a 350ºC (Relação do consumo de energia (RCE) = 0,84) gerou mais energia que consumiu em comparação com o processo de pirólise sem aporte de catalisador na mesma temperatura (RCE = 0,94). Logo, a pirólise de casca de café com MgCl 2 a 350ºC se apresentou como o processo mais eficiente para a geração de energia. Em uma segunda etapa, foi realizada a pirólise da borra de café com um teor de umidade inicial de 5,94 ± 0,11 b.u. nas temperaturas de 350 e 500°C. Já a liquefação hidrotermal da borra de café foi realizada a um teor de umidade inicial de 66,97 ± 0,48% b.u. e temperatura de 350°C. O rendimento do produto sólido foi maior para a pirólise a 350 ºC (38,33%) enquanto o do bio-óleo foi maior para a pirólise a 500 ºC (45,29%). Na liquefação hidrotermal observou-se um maior poder calorifico superior da fração orgânica do bio-óleo (37,30 MJ kg-1) e uma menor relação de consumo de energia (RCE=0,39) em relação aos outros ensaios, significando que esse processo gerou mais energia que consumiu quando comparado com o processo de pirólise. Logo, a liquefação hidrotermal se apresentou como o processo mais eficiente para a geração de energia. Dessa forma, tanto a casca de café quanto a borra de café são biomassas promissoras para a geração de energia através dos processos termoquímicos estudados. Palavras-chave: Liquefação hidrotermal. Pirólise. Casca de café. Borra de café. Catalisador. Coffea arábica.
Constitutional Violations by the Health Care Quality Improvement Act (HCQIA) and the Reporting by the National Practitioner Databank (NPDB): Focusing on the Preservation of the Civil Rights of Physicians
Authors:   University of Central Florida College of Medicine, Orlando, Florida, Gharagozloo Farid , Poston Robert ,   Mercy Health, Paducah, Kentucky
Published: March 2023

In 1986, the US Congress passed the Health Care Quality Improvement Act of 1986. (HCQIA) was designed to protect the health and safety of the public by 1) enhancing the Peer Review process through protection for peer review members from lawsuits, and 2) providing a national repository for reported information regarding medical malpractice payments and adverse actions involving physicians, which among other things, would monitor the movement of incompetent or unprofessional physicians. The framers of HCQIA did not foresee that in 2023, hospitals and employers will invariably deny employment and/or hospital privileges based on an NPDB report outlining loss of hospital privileges or relinquishment of hospital privileges under investigation. Such an adverse report by NPDB results in the inability of the physician to obtain employment or practice in a hospital. Therefore, in 2023, the unintended consequence of the reporting of adverse peer review actions by NPDB, an agency of the Federal Government, can violate the constitutional and civil rights of the said physicians.
A review of beaked whale behaviour and ecology in relation to assessing and mitigating impacts of anthropogenic noise
Authors: MacLeod Colin D. , D'Amico Angela
Published: March 2023

Little is known about the ecology and behaviour of species within the family Ziphiidae. In this paper, five aspects of beaked whale ecology and behaviour are reviewed in relation to possible anthropogenic impacts upon them: social structure; life history; foraging/diving ecology; form and function of beaked whale sounds; and habitat characteristics. Differences in social structure within and between species may affect how anthropogenic activities affect local populations. Life history parameters may likewise vary within and between species and may influence the extent of and ability to recovery from population level impacts. Foraging and diving ecology determine where beaked whales spend most of their time and therefore, where in the water column they are most likely to encounter anthropogenic activities. The form and function of beaked whale sounds may be important in determining whether and how beaked whales are affected by anthropogenic noise. Finally, habitat characteristics determine whether beaked whales are likely to occur in a specific area where anthropogenic activities are to be undertaken and may also determine exactly how beaked whales are affected by it within a local area. To help fill the gaps in our knowledge of beaked whale behaviour and ecology, available opportunities for data collection must be maximised. This includes greater levels of co-operation between research groups to build up large datasets, the use of platforms of opportunity to study beaked whales in areas where little research has previously been undertaken and maximising the amount of information that can be learned from each possible source of data, such as stranded animals, through co-ordinated national and international research programmes.
Properties of the underwater sound fields during some well documented beaked whale mass stranding events
Authors: D'Spain Gerald L. , D'Amico Angela , Fromm David M.
Published: March 2023

Recent mass strandings of marine mammals, mostly Cuvier’s beaked whales (Ziphius cavirostris) from the family of ziphiidae, have occurred coincident in space and time with human production of high levels of underwater sound. Three of these events, the May 1996 mass stranding along the Greek coast, the Bahamas mass stranding event in March 2000 and the September 2002 event in the Canary Islands, were selected for consideration here since pertinent information was readily available. The purpose of this paper is to summarise the probable characteristics of the sound fields during these events and to search for common features. The acoustic sources in all three cases moved at speeds of 5 knots or greater and generated periodic sequences of high amplitude, transient pulses 15-60s apart that contained significant energy in the 1-10kHz frequency band. The environmental conditions included water depths exceeding 1km close to land. In addition, the depth dependence of the ocean sound speed created an acoustic waveguide whose lower boundary was formed by refraction within the water column. The anthropogenic sources in all cases were located within such waveguides. Under these conditions, sound levels decrease more slowly with increasing range after a certain transition range than otherwise, due to sound focusing and to decreased attenuation because of isolation over extended ranges from the ocean bottom. In addition, the frequency dispersion is such that pulses tend to remain as pulses during propagation. For those events involving near-surface sources in surface ducts, weather conditions were calm leading to minimal sound attenuation and scattering by near-surface bubbles and ocean surface roughness. Quantitative prediction of the actual sound field properties during these events is limited primarily by the lack of knowledge of prevailing environmental conditions. Results from simple numerical modelling show that received sound level increases of up to 20dB occur after the transition range for sources and receivers within refractive waveguides. Data-based semi-empirical models of surface duct propagation provide simple, realistic, quantitative estimates of the mean acoustic field in the duct and the effects of changes in environmental conditions. Numerical modelling of total sound exposure (pressure squared integrated with respect to time) illustrates the importance of the relative velocity and minimum range between source and receiver, indicating that realistic animal motion models are required to obtain representative results. Although several features of the sound fields during these three mass stranding events are very similar, their actual relationship to the strandings is unknown.
Assessing the Relationship between Entrepreneurship and Economic Development in the MENA Region: An Empirical Investigation
Authors:   Permanent Researcher, Mecas Laboratory University of Tlemcen, BP 226, Tlemcen Algeria, Benghalem Abdelhadi
Published: March 2023

Purpose: Entrepreneurship has come to be considered as one key to the economic development of countries. Our work assesses the connection between entrepreneurship and the economic development of nine MENA economies for 2006-2018. We aim to shed additional light on the role of entrepreneurship in affecting the economy of the Middle East and African countries, hence, relates some policy and managerial implications with the results. Design/methodology/approach: Two different indicators of entrepreneurship are used; self-employment rates and the number of new business formations. The study employed four control variables: human capital, the money supply, governance quality, and foreign direct investment. We use an econometric analysis based on panel data with fixed and random effects methodology (for every year) to test the feed-back effects between entrepreneurship, economic development, and other control variables in the MENA region. Findings: Our empirical analysis suggests that the effectiveness of entrepreneurship in generating economic development in the MENA region is not related to the number of self-employed but to the creative and imitative entry of existing businesses into new markets. On the other hand, the growth of new businesses is insufficient to spur the economy unless good governance quality manages entrepreneurship in the region. Originality/value: This research adds to the literature in two ways: first, we provide new insights into the effect of two types of entrepreneurship (self-employment rate/new business formation) on economic development in the MENA region. Secondly, our research innovates in the selection of control variables to investigate factors that relate entrepreneurship to economic development. Additionally, the novelty of this paper is to analyze the relationship between entrepreneurship and economic development in the MENA region for a new period and new combinations of intermediates variables.
Measuring Determinants of Environmental Performance during COVID-19: Evidence from the Healthcare Sector
Authors:   Department of Management Sciences Comsats University Islamabad, Islamabad 45550, Pakistan, Haq Inzamam Ul
Published: March 2023

Purpose: The current study aims to investigate the role of green human resource management (GHRM, i.e., green competence building, green motivation enhancement, and green employee involvement) practices in enhancing employee environmental performance in the health care sector during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach: The data were collected from hospital staff (N=350) working in different private and public hospitals of China. Structural equational modelling–partial least squares (PLS–SEM) modelling was used to test the proposed model based on the respondents' data. Findings: The study results support the relationship between GHRM practices and environmental performance directly and through employees' green attitudes during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study results also extend this support to the negative moderating role of perceived personal inconvenience on the relationship between GHRM practices and environmental performance.
Challenges of the Social Economy Action Plan for Greece in the Light of the Socially Responsible Public Procurement
Authors: Lamprinidis Lampros
Published: March 2023

Purpose: The purpose of the Communication is to present the action plan for the social economy in the European Union. Public procurement is a powerful tool for public authorities to spend public money in an efficient, sustainable and strategic way, especially in times of budgetary constraints (EU Commission, 2017). Annual spending on public procurement in the EU amounts to €2 trillion, so managing it effectively can save significant resources for public budgets and investments, while supporting social and environmental policies. A public procurement strategy requires a change of attitude from public authorities, so that public procurement is no longer seen as a mere administrative process, but as a tool to serve broader objectives and needs, while respecting the rules governing the EU (EU Commission, 2017). With this in mind we will refer to the Action Plan for the Social Economy in the EU (2021) in the light of Socially Responsible Public Procurement in relation to Greece.

Methodology: Concise review of the Action Plan for the Social Economy in EU in the Light of the Socially Responsible Public Procurement. For this reason, we will refer to Socially Responsible Public Procurement, European policies supporting the Social Economy, and the EU Action Plan for its development. Then we will refer to the Public Procurement Strategy in Greece from the point of view of supporting Social Economy Entities.

Findings:   Presentation of the challenges of the Public Procurement Strategy in Greece in relation to Socially Responsible Public Procurement and the Social Economy Action Plan by extension

Unique Contribution to Theory Practice and Policy: The contribution of this paper is to inform stakeholders in Greece on the implementation of the Social Economy Action Plan of EU and its link to Socially Responsible Public Procurement. Through this link, the development of Social Economy Organisations can be supported on the one hand and on the other hand it can contribute to the sustainable development of the European economy and of Greece in particular.
FEATURES OF TERRITORIAL LOCATION AND YIELD DYNAMICS OF MILLET FOR GRAIN IN THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS
Authors: Matychenkova O. V. , Azarenok T. N. , Matychenkov D. V. , Dydyshko S. V. , Shylgina S. V.
Published: March 2023

The article establishes the territorial features of the placement of millet crops (for grain) in the regions of the republic on the basis of an analysis of the sown areas of millet. The statistical data on the dynamics of millet grain yield for the period 2019–2021 were analyzed. On the basis of regression analysis, the influence of agrometeorological conditions on the yield of millet grain has been established. For the first time, the coefficient of stability of harvest production by regions of the republic was calculated, which made it possible to establish that the Vitebsk region is included in the zone of extremely unstable harvesting, two regions (Minsk and Mogilev) belong to the zone of unstable production, and the rest – to the zone of permissible sustainability of crop production (for grain). The research results presented in this article are of great importance for the scientifically based formation of sown areas of drought-resistant crops, taking into account the assessment of agro-climatic data.
Movement for Rights and Freedom: Bulgaria’s Turkish minority party
Authors: Egeresi Zoltán
Published: March 2023

This paper describes the political trajectory of the Movement for Rights and Freedom (MRF) in Bulgaria. It outlines the history of the Turkish minority in Bulgaria, as well as the social background enabling the emergence of the party. The paper also describes the political history of the party during the last thirty years and highlights its role in Bulgarian politics. It is argued that the MRF has built a solid electoral base by relying not only on the Turks living in Bulgaria but also on the Turks who live in Turkey but have a Bulgarian citizenship. Despite several attempts to break its political hegemony over the Turkish electorate, the party has managed to keep its primacy and resist any kind of counter-hegemonic attempts.
Go South: Opportunities for South Korea to Increase its Economic and Political Weight in the ASEAN Region
Authors: Goreczky Péter , Mezei Tibor
Published: March 2023

The New Southern Policy (NSP) initiated by President Moon Jae-in in 2017 has given significant impetus to the development of political, economic, and cultural relations between the Republic of Korea and the ASEAN countries. The objective of South Korea is to enhance its middle power status and bolster its image as an important regional player. While the results of political and security cooperation have been modest so far, advancing economic and trade cooperation with the ASEAN region offers important opportunities for South Korea to expand and diversify its economic relationships. The growing consumer market of ASEAN and free trade agreements could primarily boost trade flows, while direct investments of South Korean companies could be catalysed by relocation strategies, supply chain transformation, and new, emerging industries and technologies. Official development aid is also expected to play an increasingly important role in the economic relations between South Korea and the ASEAN region. The main challenges include building relations with the less developed and stable economies of the region and the low visibility of the NSP at the level of regional narratives.
The Rio Tinto case: when Serbian environmentalists become a force for pressure
Authors: Viola Cintia
Published: March 2023

Rio Tinto and the Serbian government have planned to open a lithium mine in Loznica this year. Lithium, which is key to the production of electric cars, represents a huge economic potential for the company and for Serbia, but the extraction also has significant negative environmental and social impacts. Since September 2021, Serbian environmentalists have been putting pressure on the government through mass protests, which have led to the temporary shutdown of the Jadar project. Despite this, environmentalist and increasingly antigovernment protests have continued unabated and could influence the upcoming parliamentary and presidential elections.
Nordic Views of the Balkan Enlargement
Authors: Nielsen Kristian L.
Published: March 2023

While EU policy towards the Western Balkans has been scrutinized intensely, the position of the Nordic EU member states has been more obscure. While all three countries were once quite involved in the peacekeeping and rebuilding efforts, a closer examination shows that while Denmark and Finland have largely withdrawn from the region, Sweden continues an active policy across several fields. Public debate on future EU enlargement towards the Western Balkans is largely absent in all three countries, and public opinion, although far from solid, is not very enthusiastic, either. However, there is also little to suggest any active hostility in the three Nordic states. Instead, in the absence of strong, direct interests – whether in terms of the economy or hard security – the Nordic countries seem content to let EU institutions and other member states push the integration of the region forward. Most initiatives are, by and large, passively supported, while close attention is paid to the formal criteria for membership.
Southeast Asia in the US-China Tech Rivalry II. : Digital Infrastructure Development and Data Governance
Authors: Goreczky Péter
Published: March 2023

The economic development of Southeast Asia is increasingly dependent on establishing a cutting-edge digital infrastructure. In some segments of digital infrastructure, for example, data centre operations, the presence and strategy of the two nations’ tech companies in Southeast Asia has mainly been driven by market considerations. As for smart and safe city solutions, submarine internet cables, and 5G infrastructure, investment projects are linked to security concerns to a greater extent and are increasingly affected by the tech rivalry of the two great powers. The maze of geopolitical and business motivations and interests makes it more challenging for ASEAN nations to navigate the tech war and face the dual challenge of rapidly developing the digital infrastructure and avoiding taking sides in tech decoupling. The lack of global legislation on digital issues enables great tech powers to push their own data governance models. An intensifying clash between the US and China over data governance concepts would pose a risk to the evolution of adequate local legislation in the ASEAN region.
The Significance of the Abraham Accords for Morocco
Authors: Pásztor Kitti
Published: March 2023

Morocco and Israel signed a Joint Declaration on 10 December, 2020 to normalise their relations. This paper demonstrates why this event is not limited to the dispute over Western Sahara, but attention should also be paid to the various economic, security, diplomatic, ethnic, religious, and foreign policy aspects that influence Morocco. While the country is headed for a diplomatic low point, its cooperation with Israel is opening new opportunities for Rabat.
The 2021 Census in North Macedonia: Debates and Tensions
Authors: Radvánszki András
Published: March 2023

North Macedonia has successfully conducted a national census after a twenty-year hiatus. The census shows a catastrophic demographic decline and a sharp fall in the proportion of ethnic Macedonians. It has also had an important influence on the debate regarding the country’s ethnic composition and powersharing mechanism, which has been going on for two decades. The results of the census give new momentum to the political cohabitation dictated by the Ohrid Framework Agreement and the incessant fights between the representatives of the Macedonian and Albanian communities for more political influence and resources. Despite the positive reactions of the government and the praise of the international community, the controversies that have emerged regarding the results, the negative attitude of the parties, and the hostile behaviour of many political actors will further deepen the existing political fault lines and may lead to renewed ethnic conflicts.
Analysis of Chinese Economic Statecraft and its Methods through Four Case Studies
Authors: Bán Zoltán
Published: March 2023

In the past decade, China has employed its economic statecraft more frequently, possibly due to its more advanced economic capabilities and its more assertive foreign policy. Four case studies (South Korea, Australia, Canada, and Lithuania) are analysed from the past few years regarding the Chinese economic statecraft methods in order to get a better understanding of the methods used and to derive useful conclusions and recommendations for potential future cases of economic coercion. An analysis of the four cases to identify similarities in the methods utilised by Beijing shows that success rates vary at best, and many adverse effects for China are also found. Countries should be aware of such coercion methods, although building resilience seems to be more successful in easing tensions than does all-out deterrence.
Poland and the European Green Deal: On Track Towards Peaceful Coexistence?
Authors: Rákos András Dominik
Published: March 2023

Following the adoption of the European Green Deal, the traditionally reluctant position of the government of Poland regarding climate neutrality is showing ruptures and has become controversial. The aim of this policy brief is to assess the structural and discursive elements shaping the climate and energy policy of the Polish government. The paper uses a mixed methodology of literature review and qualitative content analysis involving official statements issued by three government bodies between 1 September and 31 December, 2021. The study finds that the reluctance of the Polish government is maintained by frames that presume an incompatibility between ambitious climate action and the will of ‘the people’, as well as structures that can be characterised by a state capture of the energy sector and the dominance of pro-coal actors.
Determination of unefficiently used land plots in rural settlements of the Minsk district
Authors:   Belarusian State University, Republic of Belarus, Mikhailov S.S. , Chizh D.A.
Published: March 2023

The article presents an example of integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with the data of the State Land Cadastre of the Republic of Belarus for identifying inefficiently used land plots in the residential estate fund of Minsk district. By intergating GIS with the data of State Land Cadastre of the Republic of Belarus investment attractiveness can be increased for more rational, efficient and high-quality land management of the Republic of Belarus
Using maintenance and repair strategies for equipment in a chemical company
Authors:   «Sintez OKA» group of companies, Russia, Nasonov M.A.
Published: March 2023

The article indicates the relevance of the application of modern strategies for maintenance and repair of equipment for companies in the chemical industry, using in their activities the provisions of a unified system of preventive maintenance. The maintenance strategies designed to improve the efficiency of the equipment are considered, and a brief description of each of them is given. The tasks for the implementation of each of the strategies presented in the article are given and briefly characterized, examples of data sources used in monitoring the technical condition of equipment are given. Tasks common to all strategies are identified that increase the efficiency of applying strategies. In conclusion, conclusions are presented on the feasibility of applying an integrated strategy, which includes various maintenance strategies for different categories of equipment of a chemical company.
Project consulting as a means of improving the professional competence of college students
Authors:   Mari State University, Russia, Kondrasheva V.L. , Shvetsova N.K.
Published: March 2023

This article actualizes the problem of improving the professional competence of college students through the use of project consulting. The concepts of professional competence of students are defined. The method of projects is considered as one of the effective ways to improve the professional competence of college students. The possibilities of project consulting in the formation of professional competence of students are revealed, which specific professional competencies are developed in students.
Development of mechanisms for the implementation of car recycling processes at the regional level
Authors:   SPBGUPTD, St. Petersburg, Treyman M.G. , Mikhailov A.V.
Published: March 2023

The problem of recycling used cars at the present stage of society's development is taking on new forms. This article provides options for the disposal or restoration of individual nodal parts, bodywork, batteries, liquids used in the car. The state of this problem was considered in the most developed countries of Western Europe and the USA from the point of view of the automotive industry. The article presents the need to form an integrated approach to the use of spare parts and components for their eyes within the domestic automotive industry.
Neural networks in medicine. Automation using artificial intelligence
Authors:   Volga State University of Telecommunications and Informatics, Russia, Lysova M.E. , Kuznetsov M.E.
Published: March 2023

Neural networks will help to improve and automate medicine, both in the treatment process itself and in the service part. After the introduction of neural networks (robots and chips), each polyclinic will be able to increase the level of efficiency. Three examples of the use of neural networks in the use of both technical equipment and medical techniques are presented. Some cons and pros of using artificial intelligence are considered. A brief description of the possible improvement of various aspects in the field of medicine is given. Robots-registrars in the infomat, Tracking chips in the home hospital, Robots-assistants in vaccination offices, their impact on the automation of service processes. The influence of artificial intelligence on patients and employees of general polyclinic and polyclinic staff. The ability to save time when going to the doctor, for statements and directions. Improving sanitary standards through the introduction of neural networks that reduce the contact of patients with each other. Simplification of operators' work, the ability to do more work in less time. Elimination of errors when sending QR codes to the state portal. Reducing conflicts between medical professionals and patients. Improving the welfare of medical institutions.
E-Learning in Pharmacology Education During COVID 19 Pandemic: Students’ Preference & Perception of Assessments
Authors: Azamam Nurul Najiah , Suratman Suraya , Mustaffa Mohd Faiz , Ramli Nor Amlizan , Maniam Sandra , Ali Aida Azlina
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Pharmacology is one of the fundamental components of the undergraduate pharmacy curriculum, providing core knowledge on the mechanisms of drug action and toxicity, consequently laying the foundational concepts in rational pharmacotherapeutic decisions. The Covid-19 pandemic has urgently forced educational institutions to transition to online remote learning. This unprecedented move has not only affected teaching and learning, but also assessments, a known factor in driving student learning. This study served to determine students’ preference and perceptions of the assessments utilised for pharmacology courses in the undergraduate pharmacy programme, during the online and distance learning period. Methods: An online survey questionnaire was developed and distributed to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Pharmacy (B. Pharm) programme at the Faculty of Pharmacy, UiTM Selangor Puncak Alam Campus. Three hundred and fourteen students participated in the study. Collected data was then analysed using SPSS version 26. Results: Findings revealed that the majority of students preferred multiple choice questions (MCQs) test the most. Problem-based learning (PBL) was also among the most favoured especially among 3rd year students. In term of perceptions, this study disclosed that students acknowledged all assessments conducted for pharmacology courses contributed to their understanding towards course material, knowledge strength, analytical and critical thinking skills, problem analysis and learning feedback. Conclusion: Although the findings were mostly positive, a more thorough investigation is needed to identify how these assessments can be improved. Regular review on how curriculums are delivered and assessed are imperative in order to implement necessary measures for improving learning outcomes.
Bibliometric Analysis on Medical Education During Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Hod Rafidah
Published: March 2023

Medical education encompasses vast topics related to teaching-learning, among medical students. Bibliometric analysis is a scientific method to review properties of academic publications using quantitative statistical techniques. Aim of this study is to provide a bibliometric analysis of scholarly publications specifically on medical education related topics during the COVID-19 pandemic. The relevant documents on medical education were obtained from the Scopus database. Database search performed on 20th March 2022 and analysed using Microsoft Excel 365, VOSviewer and Harzing’s Publish or Perish. A total of 1436 documents were retrieved from Scopus database, left with 782 documents after filtering. For the past 2 years, the total citations received are 4974, while 44% of the documents were never cited. The most productive journal is BMC Medical Education. Most cited article is entitled: Medical Student Education in the Time of COVID-19 published in 2020. Most frequently used author keyword is covid-19. Visualisation on citation analysis among countries reveal the strongest link by United States of America with other countries. The current study provides a bibliometric perspective on the available medical education related publications in addressing issues related to covid-19 that is useful to guide them in considering possible future studies.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Applications During Covid-19 Pandemic Among Preclinical Medical and Dentistry Students: A Mini-Review
Authors: Mohamad Zainal Nurul Hayati , Ramli Rosmaliza , Omar Norsuhana , Mahmud Melati , Abdul Salim Noor Hafizah
Published: March 2023

The efficacy of online learning in delivering theoretical knowledge with appropriate content to students is imperative, especially in the Covid-19 pandemic era. Substantial interactive teaching materials were developed for higher education. However, some were designed immensely general, especially in fulfilling the syllabus of preclinical medical and dentistry students. Augmented reality (AR) is an interactive three-dimension (3D) experience that uses computers to overlay virtual information in the real world whereas virtual reality (VR) is a computer-generated artificial recreation of a real-life experience or situation. Interestingly, both can be complemented and integrated into online and traditional teaching methods. Implementation of these technologies will increase the learning efficacy in understanding the human body’s anatomical and physiological changes in the normal or pathological state. As AR and VR technologies are continuously evolving, this review provides the preview and current updates on AR and VR applications in medical and dentistry education which may benefit the educators within these specialities.
Anatomy Laboratory Postdoctoral Training during COVID-19 Pandemic in Europe: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Alias Aspalilah , Abas Razif
Published: March 2023

Postdoctoral researchers utilise their time in training to broaden their research interests, learn new ideas and practices, such as grant application and laboratory administration, develop their higher-order thinking and communication skills, and get familiar with new scientific methodologies and concepts. Anatomy postdoctoral trainees working in laboratory research benefit greatly from biological sciences. During the COVID-19 pandemic, postdoctoral researchers face several challenges, including restricted hands-on laboratory work, limited lab supplies and equipment, less labour work as peoples become more isolated, and reduced supervision of their postgraduate students. Hence, in this commentary, we discussed the challenges and solutions during the anatomy laboratory postdoctoral fellowship amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe, with regard to our own experience. Academic and research institutions, financial institutions, learning and professional associations, and employers must all work together to define the future, regardless of the situation.
Burnout among Clinical and Non-clinical Academics during the Implementation of Remote Teaching and Learning due to COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ayub Izzudeen , Muhd Helmi Muhd Alwi , Mohd Azhar Nur Syuhada , Mohd Fauzi Nurul Fauwiza , Ashikin Taib Mai Nurul , Sharifudin Mohd Ariff
Published: March 2023

Introduction: The extent of burnout among clinical and non-clinical academics during the COVID-19 pandemic is not well gauged and necessitates further attention. This study was designed to determine the prevalence of burnout among academics in the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Kuantan campus, and the associated sociodemographic and occupational-related factors. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study between March and May 2021 using questionnaires adapted from Copenhagen Burnout Inventory and General Stressor Questionnaire at the IIUM, Kuantan campus. Results: 57 clinical and 93 non-clinical academics responded to the survey. The prevalence of significant burnout was 49%. Compared to non-clinical academics, clinical academics had a significantly higher proportion of burnout with a p-value of <0.001, particularly in work-related, student-related, and superior-related burnout domains, with a p-value of 0.004, <0.001, and 0.006, respectively. Factors significantly associated with burnout among our cohort were clinical work, chronic illness, and gender, each with an odds ratio of 2.72 (95% CI = 1.01,7.34), 2.81 (95% CI = 1.14, 6.92), and 4.86 (95% CI = 2.15, 10.9). Conclusion: Burnout was highly prevalent among academics in the IIUM Kuantan campus, particularly among clinical academics during the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of remote teaching and learning policy.
Effectiveness and Student’s Perception of E-anatomy Kit as a Tool for Gross Anatomy of Respiratory System Virtual Practical During Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Choy Ker Woon , Zaidun Nurul Hannim , Haslan Haszianaliza , Bt Adib Ridzuan Nurul Raudzah
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Anatomy is perceived to be an onerous subject as it contains complex information that necessitates three-dimensional visualization to comprehend. During COVID-19 pandemic, there was a paradigm shift to online distance learning including practical sessions. Innovative instructional techniques of learning anatomy are clearly needed.Methods: An e-Anatomy kit composing of 5 components: i) pre-recorded cadaveric demonstrations, ii) Complete Anatomy application, iii) interactive diagram labelling, iv) schematic diagram and v) mnemonics were designed to improve the Respiratory Module virtual practical experience of medical students from Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia. The students were divided into 2 groups: the control group had regular discussion and the experimental group received an e-Anatomy kit. Pre- and post-test containing Anatomy questions as well as questionnaires regarding student perceptions were also given to the students. Results: There was significant difference between the means of pre- and post-test assessment in both control and e-Anatomy kit groups. There were no differences of post-test assessments between the control and e-Anatomy kit groups. However, in post-test assessments, the mean percentage difference of the e-Anatomy kit group is higher (15.8%) in comparison to the control group (10.3%). The students perceived the e-Anatomy kit as engaging, interesting and effective. Conclusion: e-Anatomy kit is an efficient and engaging approach as an alternative or adjunct to face-to-face anatomy teaching, especially under COVID-19 pandemic.
The Major Challenges Faced by Medical Lecturers in Teaching, Learning and Assessment During the Covid-19 Pandemic: A Hermeneutic Phenomenology Study
Authors: Yusoff Muhamad Saiful Bahri , Mohamad Irfan , Mat Pa Mohamad Najib , Ismail Muhd Al-Aarifin , Draman Nani , Yaacob Nor Azwany , Hadie Siti Nurma Hanim , Wan Abdul Rahman Wan Faiziah
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Online teaching, learning, and evaluation are inevitable to ensure the continuity of medical education delivery throughout the COVID-19 Pandemic. Based on medical lecturers’ experiences during the COVID-19 movement control order (MCO), this study looked into the problems of implementing online teaching, learning, and assessment. Methods: During the COVID-19 MCO, a hermeneutic phenomenology study was conducted using reflective written exercises to explore the challenges faced by medical lecturers. The medical lecturers were given online open-ended questions via a Google form to help them reflect on their previous experiences. The reflective written comments were analysed by ATLAS.ti. Thematic analysis was performed for coding and categorizing the reflective comments into meaningful codes, categories, and themes. Results: A total of 29 medical lecturers responded to the open-ended reflective questions. They were 16 females, and 13 males representing four main medical specialties: basic science (n=10), medical-based (n=9), surgical-based (n=5), and laboratory-based (n=5). The thematic analysis identified five themes of challenges faced by medical lecturers during the pandemic that include ICT facility and support, lecturers’ receptivity, online students’ engagement, online assessment, and online teaching. Conclusion: This study emphasised the common obstacles faced by medical lecturers during the COVID-19 MCO in order to maintain the continuity of medical education delivery. Students, lecturers, curriculum, ICT facility, and technical assistance were all part of the issues. Several proposals for charting ways to improve medical education delivery during the epidemic were explored.
SAĞLIK SEKTÖRÜ YÖNETİMİNDE KADIN TEMSİLİ
Authors: Aydınoğlu Nejla , Vural Selvi
Published: March 2023

Bu araştırmanın amacı, sağlık sektöründe yönetici kadın temsilini ortaya koymaktır. Nitekim, tüm dünyada üst düzey yönetici pozisyonlarında kadınlara yer verildiğinde birtakım avantajların örgütleri daha güçlü kıldığı görülmektedir. Ancak gerek ülkemizde gerekse dünya çapında tepe yönetim kademelerindeki kadın yöneticilerin sayısı oldukça düşüktür. Bu durumun temelinde; çok sayıda unsur yer alabilmektedir. Neticede, örgütler içerisinde kadın çalışan sayısının görece daha yüksek olduğu sağlık kurumlarında bile kadınların yönetimdeki varlığı istenilen düzeyde değildir. Bu nedenle, konun yönetimde kadın-erkek fırsat eşitliği bağlamında önem arz ettiği ve incelenmesi gerektiği düşünülmektedir. Bu kapsamda, Bursa ilindeki/ilçelerindeki kamu ve özel hastanelerin web siteleri aracılığıyla doküman analizine tabii tutularak üst yönetim kademeleri incelenmiş ve fırsat eşitliği bağlamında kadın yöneticilerin sayısal büyüklüğü dikkate alınarak tanımlayıcı nitelikte bir araştırma gerçekleştirilmiştir. Araştırma sonucu toplam 326 yöneticiye ilişkin bulgular; toplam kadın yönetici oranının %40.8 (N:133), erkek yönetici oranının ise %59.2 (N: 193) olduğunu ve Bursa kamu-özel hastanelerinde kadınların yönetsel temsilinin yetersiz, üniversite hastanelerinin ise diğerlerine göre nispeten daha yüksek olduğunu açık bir şekilde ortaya koymaktadır.
Assessment of Efficiency and Effectiveness of Bus Transport Organizations Using DEA Incorporating Emissions and Accidents
Authors: Praveen Kumar P.
Published: March 2023

Environmental pollution due to vehicular emissions and accidents reflect upon the sustainability, and social responsibility of transport organizations. However, it is also necessary to attain higher levels of performance by ensuring higher transit ridership measured in terms of passengers carried per day. The present work is focused on the analysis of performance efficiency and service effectiveness of 25 selected State Road Transport Undertakings (SRTUs) in India for the year 2004-05, 2009-10 and 2014-15. Here, it was proposed to use a hybrid output-oriented Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) approach developed by Seiford and Zhu in 2002 to handle undesirable outputs such as annual Carbon-di-oxide (CO2) emitted per passenger-km, and total accidents per year in addition to overall productivity. The results of the analysis provided details on targets that could be achieved for the available input resources allocated. Transport organizations can adopt similar approaches in performance evaluation and benchmarking considering sustainability, and social responsibility along with efficiency.
O tradutor teatral além do texto
Authors: Cruz Claudia Soares
Published: March 2023

Teatro é uma arte coletiva, e nada relacionado ao fazer teatral se dá de forma isolada, o que, claramente, inclui a tradução. Entretanto, o trabalho dos tradutores teatrais costuma se limitar à entrega do texto traduzido, encerrando-se aí sua participação no processo de encenação. Este artigo visa repensar o lugar ocupado pelos tradutores nesse processo, demonstrando o quanto têm a oferecer para toda a equipe envolvida na encenação, contribuindo, assim, para que o resultado em cena seja mais promissor. Além da proposta de aproximação entre tradutores e encenação, o presente artigo propõe meios de fomentar uma maior integração entre a cena e o público.