bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What is needed to promote physical activity?
Authors: Hohberg Vivien , Kreppke Jan-Niklas , Cody Robyn , Guthold Regina , Woods Catherine , Brand Ralf , Dunton Genevieve , Rothman Alexander , Ketelhut Sascha , Nigg Claudio
Published: November 2022

Despite the health-related benefits and published evidence-based physical activity (PA) guidelines, global PA levels have been stagnating since the 2000s, with around 80% of adolescents and 28% of adults not achieving the recommendations. As a result, a pandemic of physical inactivity is occurring, with far-reaching health consequences along with a substantial economic burden. This has led to the development of the Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018-2030 (GAPPA). GAPPA includes recommendations and 20 related evidence-based policy actions, which are adaptable across country contexts. The Irish PA Research Collaboration implemented strategies from the GAPPA at a national level and thus, conducted a systems map to identify gaps and strengths in PA policy. Using this approach, the Move for Life intervention was successfully developed, implemented, and evaluated. In line with a whole system approach, a better understanding of the individual is also required in the course of successfully promoting and maintaining PA. Affective-Reflective Theory of physical inactivity and exercise highlights the importance of learnt affective responses to exercise-related stimuli, and suggests that both automatic and controlled processes contribute to the adoption and maintenance of a physically active lifestyle. A method to shed light on motivational processes and people’s everyday behavior is longitudinal micro-temporal data. During the challenging situations such as the COVID-19, longitudinal micro-temporal data collected through mobile and wearable devices can capture processes and conditions that underlie flexible shifting between the automatic and controlled processes needed to maintain behavior. In summary, this paper compiles key concepts for PA promotion and maintenance, from which future directions follow: Gathering more extensive PA and sedentary behavior data; applying a whole system approach; considering new perspectives with a dual mode approach; avoiding unpleasant feelings during PA or exercise; conceiving interventions that promote flexibility; and capitalizing on technology to integrate and achieve these future directions.
An investigation of diuretic activity of aqueous extract of malus sulvestris (l) mil fruits in experimental animal models
Authors: Bhat Ramdas , Nagesh Sahana , Shanbhag Preeti , Mestha Sujana V , V K Shilpashree , Kumar Ravi
Published: November 2022

Objective and background: Malus sylvestris Linn are a plant widely used as a traditional medicinal herb has a wide range of Pharmacotherapeutic activities. The current study was carried out to investigate the diuretic activity of Malus sylvestris Linn fruit aqueous extract (AEMS) in experimental animals. Methods: In the current study Wister rats were divided into 5 groups of n=6 each using Furosemide (100 mg/kg, p.o) as the standard drug and normal saline as the control. AEMS is given at the doses of 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg p.o. in distilled water respectively. Lipchitz method was used for his study. Parameters such as volume of urine, concentration of sodium and concentration of potassium are noted. Results and discussion: The study revealed that extract of AEMS has considerably increased the urine volume with significant increase in cationic concentration at increased doses. The concentration of Na+/K+ indicates the dose dependent response with the comparable results at the doses of 200 mg/kg, 400 mg/kg and 800 mg/kg with reference with the standard administered. Oral administration of AEMS at the dose of 800 mg/kg shows high significance (P<0.001) with that of control and dose of AEMS of 400 mg/kg shows significance (P<0.05) shows and dose of AEMS of 200 mg/kg shows less significance (P<0.01) with decreased urine output with that of control.  Conclusion: As a result of foregoing study aqueous extract of Malus sylvestris Linn fruit has considerable diuretic activity at higher doses.
Effects of plateletpheresis on hematological parameters
Authors: Setiadarma Dito , Angela Angela
Published: November 2022

Apheresis for platelet concentrates has been used more frequently in recent years due to the rising demand for platelet transfusions for patients with various medical and surgical disorders. Studies on the effect of repeated or frequent plateletpheresis on the donor's hematological parameters are still limited. This article will review the effects of plateletpheresis on the donor's hematological parameters to define the proper deferral for repeat donation because this treatment is relatively new and requires early repeat donations. We systematically search the studies and review current evidence about the effects of plateletpheresis on blood parameters in healthy donors. Literature tracking was performed on PubMed, CENTRAL, EbscoHost, and ProQuest databases. There are different effects, and some studies reveal that plateletpheresis can decrease hematological parameters (HB, HCT, PLT, PDW). Some can cause an increase in hematological parameters (HB, HCT). These different effects can be caused by variable cell separator technologies, residual blood volume lost during apheresis, and mechanical hemolysis of blood in tubes by machine pumps.
Comentarios Sobre Construcción Social y Pedofilia
Authors: Martínez-Taboas Alfonso
Published: November 2022

Freddy A. Panigua plantea en su artículo, utilizando innumerables datos internacionales, que la edad de casamiento y de tener relaciones sexuales en personas jóvenes varía a nivel regional y de país en país. También demuestra que la definición de pedofilia en el DSM-5 podría implicar un escenario en donde una persona no esté cometiendo una falta legal, pero sí podría ser juzgado con un disturbio mental como sería la pedofilia. Por lo tanto, puede ocurrir, y no es raro que ocurra, una disyuntiva entre lo legal y lo psiquiátrico. En el presente escrito, me propongo demonstrar que dicho hallazgo no es sorprendente cuando partimos de una perspectiva basada en la construcción social de la realidad. Al no haber una esencia inmutable, que trasciende épocas y regiones, la construcción social de lo que es un niño y un adolescente, y su madurez para mantener relaciones sexuales, variará de acuerdo a variables de corte político, religioso, social y económico. Asimismo, critico dos posturas del autor, las cuales me parecen insostenibles. La primera mantiene que un “niño” debe ser definido como una persona menor de 18 años. Tal postura ha sido denunciada como una infantilización de los adolescentes. La segunda es su propuesta de que se defina al pedófilo como una persona con 18 años o más y una víctima como una persona menor de 18 años. Esta clasificación llevaría a una persona de 19 años que tenga relaciones con su pareja de 17 años como una persona pedófila, lo que me parece que abre la puerta para que en psiquiatría se continúe la tendencia de ir estrechando cada vez más lo que son conductas normales.
Truncation Effects on Effective Diameter Measurement for Size-specific Dose Estimation in Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging
Authors: Alhaji Barde Mustapha , Osman Noor Diyana , Mat Razali Mohd Amir Syahmi , Mohd Naharuddin Hafizah , Mohamad Suhaimi Fatanah , Mat Isa Nor Ashidi
Published: November 2022

The determination of size specific dose estimation (SSDE) has been proposed for accurate CT dose assessment. The SSDE introduction has prompted numerous manufacturers and researchers to develop various methodologies that have progressed from manual to automated methods in SSDE determination. Few studies reported on truncation effects with respect to specific size and SSDE determination and CT manufacturers are yet to incorporate truncation correction in their system [1,2].

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of truncation artifacts on the measurement of effective diameter (Deff) and SSDE in CT imaging. A phantom study was performed using CTDI phantom of different diameters, 22 and 32 cm with Siemens SOMATOM Definition AS+ CT scanner.  Phantom images of different truncation percentage (TP) of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% were simulated and acquired. The Deff and SSDE were determined based on the displayed CTDIvol, and the AAPM correction factor table was used to calculate the SSDE accurately [3]. The percentage error for each TP in comparison with non-truncated image (TP 0%) was computed.

Results showed the percentage error (PE) for both Deff and SSDE increased as the TP increased. The PE was determined by comparing the Deff and SSDE of each TP with non-truncated (TP 0%) image. Table 1 shows the values of PE of truncated images of different TP (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) for both Deff and SSDE in phantom sizes of 22 and 32 cm. However, it can be observed that PE values for SSDE of 5% and 10% truncation were similar for both phantom sizes. This is because the correction factors for 5% and 10% were similar and had resulted in similar calculated SSDE. The highest recorded PE was observed in 20% truncation that determined the largest difference in Deff and SSDE with non-truncated image.

This study demonstrates that there is a linear relationship between truncation percentage with measured Deff and SSDE computation. It can be concluded that the percentage error in Deff measurement and calculated SSDE will increase as TP increased. Therefore, the effects of truncation artefacts should be carefully considered in SSDE calculation for accurate estimation especially in development of automated calculation.
The Overview of Job Stress and Patient Safety Culture among Nurses in the East Coast Teaching Hospital, Malaysia
Authors: Paneerselvam Aletha , Abdul Samad Nurul Izzah , Hussin Norliza , Hamzah Nurul Ainun
Published: November 2022

Patient safety is attributed to the responsibility of each component that exists in the healthcare system in an organization. Accidents may happen based on as a result of lack of attention, mistaken perception, or improper cognition or attention such as distraction [1]. Nurses are considered to carry high job stress, and low sleep quality problems due to uneven working shifts compared to other occupations [2]. Nurses are often associated with overwhelming workloads and busy schedules, and this situation could compromise their work performance and patient safety [3].

 

This study aims to determine the prevalence of job stress and the patient safety culture among the nurses in the East Coast Teaching Hospital, Malaysia. There were 188 nurses who were randomly selected and agreed to participate in this study. The assessment was conducted using validated questionnaires, comprised of Expanded Nursing Stress Scales and Safety Attitude Questionnaire. The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis and Pearson’s correlation test.

 

The study showed that 61.5% of the respondents suffered mild job stress, while 1.4% experienced severe job stress (Table 1). More than half of the respondents (74.1%) gave negative responses towards patient safety culture at their workplace showing their low awareness on patient safety culture (Table 2). Stress recognition factor (80.4%) was reported as the main factor for the negative response on patient safety culture among respondents. There was a significant inverse linear relationship between job stress and patient safety culture (r=-0.338, p<0.001).  

The result revealed that the majority of the nurses enrolled in this study experienced unsatisfactory patient safety culture levels. Most of the respondents expressed appreciation for their job, however, several other domains received less positive responses. The overall patient safety culture can be improved by providing measures to correspond with the stress factors experience by the nurses.
The Determination of Diagnostic Reference Range (DRR) Based on Clinical Indications in Head Computed Tomography (CT) Imaging
Authors: Hassan Nur Hazalina , Osman Noor Diyana , Mohd Daud Norfataha , Mockter Tasnim
Published: November 2022

Diagnostic reference range (DRR) were introduced to help manage image quality as well as patient dose by providing minimum estimated dose that covers 25–75% range of dose distribution. The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) (2017) recommended 75th percentile as upper boundary and 25th percentile as lower boundary of DRR [1]. Dose below the lower range should compromised accurate interpretation of the image and dose above the upper range may be in excess and need to be reviewed. Meanwhile, Diagnostic Reference Levels (DRLs) also recommended by ICRP as a guidance to identify any uncommon high dose delivered by computed tomography (CT) scanner. DRLs are established at 75th percentile of dose distribution and should be implemented at international, regional, or local level for dose management.

 

This study aims to establish a local DRR based on five most common clinical indications for adult head CT scanning at Department of Radiology, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia (HUSM), Kelantan. This study involved a retrospective survey on adult patient data undergone head CT scan with two CT scanners, Toshiba CT scanner at Trauma Department and Siemens CT scanner at Radiology Department, HUSM. The related data regarding the scanning protocols and dose descriptor (dose length product, DLP) were recorded for the most common clinical indication in head CT scans.

 

Results showed the five most common clinical indication related to head CT scans were abscess, bleeding, stroke, trauma, and tumour. The DLP values were varied based on their clinical indications and CT scanner types.  Figure 1 shows boxplots representing the DRRs of dose length product (DLP) based on the five most common clinical indications in head CT scans for Toshiba and Siemens CT scanners. From the figure, the DLP ranges for Toshiba CT scanner were slightly higher than Siemens CT scanners. The lowest DLP value was observed for tumour indication and the highest DLP was bleeding and trauma indications. Clinical indication that requires higher image resolution and details and longer scan length, recorded higher DLP distribution.

This study demonstrates that the dose descriptor values, CTDIvol and DLP were varied for similar anatomical region based on different image quality requirement for each clinical indication. Therefore, DRR and DRL should be established based on specific clinical indication and routine dose audit is essential to ensure patients safety.
Minocycline reduced Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation rat model
Authors: Abdo Qaid Entesar Yaseen , Abdullah Zuraidah , Zakaria Rahimah , Long Idris
Published: November 2022

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce neuroinflammation in rats and the expression of brain cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is the marker for the neuroinflammation process [1]. The effect of minocycline on neuroinflammation-induced LPS is not clearly elucidated.

 

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of minocycline (MIN) on LPS-induced COX-2 expression and compared it with a clinically approved drug for Alzheimer’s disease named memantine. A total of fifty male Sprague Dawly rats were divided into five groups (n=10): (i) control, (ii) LPS, (iii) LPS-treated with minocycline 25 mg/kg, (iv) LPS-treated with minocycline 50 mg/kg, and (v) LPS-treated with memantine 10 mg/kg. Minocycline and memantine treatments were administered intraperitoneally once daily for 2 weeks and LPS (5 mg/kg) was injected once on day 5. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot for COX-2 protein were performed to measure its expression and level in the hippocampus and cortex. 

Results showed LPS significantly increased COX-2 expression and its level in the hippocampus and cortex compared to other groups (p<0.05). Minocycline treatment, dependent on dose, reduced COX-2 expression and its level (p<0.05) comparable to the memantine effect (Figure 1).
Whole Genome Sequencing of a Clinical Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus from Terengganu Led to the Discovery of a Novel 58.4 kb Conjugative Plasmid
Authors: Ibrahim Al-Trad Esra’a , Che Hamzah Ainal Mardziah , Yeo Chew Chieng , Puah Suat Moi , Chua Kek  Heng , Chew Ching Hoong
Published: November 2022

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been listed by the World Health Organization as a priority antibiotic-resistant nosocomial pathogen in urgent need of new antimicrobials [1]. Plasmids are a key factor in the pathology and epidemiology of MRSA isolates and play important roles in their evolution. In our on-going efforts to better understand the genetic background and molecular epidemiology of MRSA isolates from Terengganu, Malaysia, whole genome sequencing using Illumina HiSeq platform (HiSeq-PE150) was performed on a 31 selection of clinical isolates obtained from the main tertiary hospital, Hospital Sultanah Nur Zahirah (HSNZ). One of these isolates, designated S. aureus SauR23, was isolated from pus in 2016 and was resistant to seven classes of antimicrobials and thus categorized as multidrug resistant (MDR). Analysis of the genome sequence of SauR23 showed it belonged to the ST22 clone with a SCCmec class IV(2B) and harbored the blaZ, mecA, norA, lmrS, mepR and ermC resistance genes, which corresponded to its MDR phenotype. Besides the norA-encoded efflux pump, fluoroquinolone resistance in SauR23 could also be due to the S84L point mutation in its gyrA-encoded DNA gyrase. SauR23 was found to carry three plasmids, designated pSauR23-1 (58,422 bp), pSauR23-2 (3,011 bp), and pSauR23-3 (2,473 bp). The smallest plasmid, pSauR23-3 was a RepL-family plasmid that encoded the ermC gene and was likely responsible for the inducible macrolide-lincosamide-streptogrammin B (iMLSB) phenotype exhibited by the host strain. Plasmid pSauR23-2 was a Rep_1 family small cryptic plasmid. On the other hand, pSauR23-1 is a novel, potentially conjugative plasmid that contains a replicase of the RepA_N domain (repUS20) that shared low sequence identity (34%) to the RepA_N replicase of pWBG749, a known staphylococcal conjugative plasmid. The putative conjugative region of pSauR23-1 differed from the conjugative transfer system of pWBG749 as well as other known conjugative systems in the database. Nevertheless, genes which contained conserved motifs for the MobL relaxase, the TraG/TraD-like conjugative transfer protein, and a type VI secretion system ATPase were detected within this region of the plasmid.
Genome based classification of Streptomyces sp. SUK 48 from fruit of Brasilia sp.
Authors: Sulaimi Muhammad Izzat Haiqal , Ahmad Siti Junaidah , Mohamad Zin Noraziah , Kusuma Ali Budhi
Published: November 2022

Streptomyces is a filamentous bacteria genus belonging to the Streptomycetaceae family and there are a lot of different species Streptomyces of that have been discovered. Streptomyces sp. SUK 48 is an endophytic bacteria which found in a fruit of Brasilia sp. that located at UKM reserved forest known as Bangi Reserved Forest [1]. This study was conducted to determine the classification of Streptomyces sp. SUK 48 isolated from fruit of Brasilia sp. tree, in genome perspectives [2]. In specific, the objectives of this study were to construct phylogenetic tree for Streptomyces SUK 48, compare genome Streptomyces SUK 48 with other related Streptomyces species genome using bioinformatic tools that can do phylogenomic research and determine Average Nucleotide Identity (ANI) score of Streptomyces sp. SUK 48 as compared to others Streptomyces spp. Based on phylogenetic analysis, Streptomyces SUK 48 have high similarities with Streptomyces malaysiense MUSC 136 with 99.65% pairwise similarity which obtained from BLASTN analysis. While, phylogenomic analysis showed Streptomyces SUK 48 has high similarity with Streptomyces murinus that observed in phylogenomic tree GToTree (Figure 1). Based on the ANI score, it shows that Streptomyces SUK 48 have similarities of 94.14% with Streptomyces murinus from the phylogenomics analysis (Table 1).

In conclusion, Streptomyces SUK 48 is a potential novel isolated species.
Association Of Lifestyle Habits and Visceral Fat Accumulation Among UniSZA Staff
Authors: Ab Hadi Nor Hannah Aqila , Harith Sakinah
Published: November 2022

An increase in visceral fat, knows as fat that surrounds the abdominal organs deep within the body causes obesity, particularly abdominal obesity [1]. National Health and Morbidity Survey   2019 has reported 1 in 2 adults in Malaysia had abdominal obesity [2]. The increased incidence of abdominal obesity  raises the risk of cardiovascular disease [2]. Visceral fat accumulation has been linked to unhealthy lifestyle and is frequently accompanied with metabolic imbalance and fluid retention because on insulin resistance, which can lead to metabolic syndrome [4]. Visceral fat accumulation is influenced by socio-demographic factors and lifestyle habits. However, only a few studies have looked at the relationship between lifestyle choices and visceral fat accumulation.

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between lifestyle habits and accumulation of visceral fat among staff in Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin. A total of 107 staff who work at department or faculty in UniSZA aged 18 to 59 years old were recruited using a purposive sampling method. Information on socio- demographic, anthropometric, mealtime pattern, physical activity, sedentary behavior and working hour were obtained. NHMS 2014 questionnaires was used to measure lifestyle habits of the participants.

The respondents (mean age: 37.7 ± 8.1 years) were predominantly male (50.5%), Malay (100%), married (77.6%), highest education in bachelor’s degree (35.5%), and a monthly salary of RM 1000 and above. The study revealed half (54.2%) of the respondent from the overweight and obese category of BMI. The percentage of overweight is

36.4 while obese is 20.6. However, half of them had a normal visceral fat range, 54.2%. Waist circumference and waist-hip ratio at risk is highest among female (62.3%) and male (55.6%), respectively.

The study shows high prevalence of overweight/ obese and abdominal obesity indicate the respondent has high risk of chronic disease such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. Thus, it is suggested that future intervention programs should focus on preventing overweight/obesity and abdominal obesity to prevent from problems related to chronic diseases.
Wound Healing in Rats Intraperitoneally Treated with Sea Cucumber Stichopus vastus (Glycosaminoglycans)
Authors: Nur-Farihin Mohamad Helmi , Mat Zin Anani Aila , Abdul  Aziz Ahmad Aizat , Md hashim Mohd Nizam , Che Ghazali Farid , Mohamad Ikhwan Sani
Published: November 2022

Marine creature such as sea cucumbers are rich in glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). It is famous and has long been utilised as traditional remedies and commonly used in wound healing therapy. This study is designed to explore the effect of GAGs in sea cucumber especially GAGs from integument wall of Stichopus vastus for wound healing study by intra-peritoneally injected to rats daily.

 

Complete randomised design was used in this study where a total of twenty male Sprague-dawley rats were divided to 4 groups; 3 treatment groups of GAGs (2 mg/kg, 4 mg/kg and 6 mg/kg) and one control group of phosphate buffer saline (PBS) with sample size of n=6 rats per group. Rats weight from 250 to 400 grams were treated with GAGs daily for 12 days. An excisional wound was created using biopsy punch with diameter of 6 mm. Treatment with GAGs of S. vastus by intra-peritoneally injected daily and the excisional part was left opened without topically applied with antiseptic to prevent bias for 12th days’ period of wound evaluation.

 

Result of this study was obtained by measuring the wound diameter (mm) using ruler or measuring caliper (Figure 1) and recorded on day 1, day 6 and day 12 followed by calculation of wound contraction percentage. The wound contraction percentage evaluation from this study found out that GAGs compound from S. vastus shows no significant difference between all treatment groups and control groups for day 1, day 6 and day 12. However, on day 6 of treatment, 2 mg/kg treatment group shows higher wound contraction percentage compared to other groups. The study found that 2 mg/kg of GAGs extraction can speed up the wound contraction in which can enhance and promote wound closure.

The wound contraction is one of the reliable parameters and commonly used to evaluate wound healing process in which the contraction of wound later leads to wound closure; healed [1]. Wound contraction can be defined as a process of shrinkage of open wound in which normal skin moves centrally to the wound site and at the end give small scar [2]. From previous study, the GAGs from fish showed an accelerating wound healing as the GAGs had been discovered to have good potential in antimicrobial activity. The abilities to fight against microbial mainly S. aureaus extend the anti-inflammatory phase in an instance speed up the wound contraction in early wound healing process [3]. Besides, Pereira et al. (2019) [4] found that, Calendula officinalis (marigold); containing anti-inflammatory effect [5], was topical applied on rats’ skin enhancing wound healing in acute wound as it increased the speed of epithelialisation, wound contraction, collagen formation and new vessel formation. Thus, it can be hypothesised that GAGs from S. vastus extract give strong anti-inflammatory effect on wound healing and has potential in enhancing wound healing by speeding up wound healing.
Development of Myocardial Infarction in Rat Model of Diet-Induced Hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: Ali Shafreena Shaukat , Mohd Asri Nur Ain , Noordin Liza , Murtey Mogana Das , Noor Azmi Norfarizan  Hanoon , Omar Maizatul Hasyima , Wan Ahmad Wan Amir Nizam
Published: November 2022

The evidence of hypercholesterolaemia (HC) being a significant contributor to the progression of ischemic heart diseases (IHDs), particularly myocardial infarction (MI) is steadily increasing globally [1]. However, data on the establishment of MI-associated diet-induced HC rat model are lacking.

 

Hence, this study aimed to establish an MI-associated diet-induced HC rat model, allowing a better understanding of the pathological changes of this rat model. A total of 6 male Sprague Dawley rats weighing 200-250 were randomly allotted into 2 groups; Control and HC-MI. Control rats were fed with standard pellet, while HC rats were fed with a self-made high-cholesterol diet (HCD) for 10 weeks. The recipe for the HCD was adopted from a previous study [2] with slight modification. At the end of 10th week, MI was induced with the administration of isoprenaline (85 mg/kg, s.c) for 2 consecutive days [3].

 

In this study, 10 weeks of HCD significantly increased body mass index (BMI), triglyceride, and total cholesterol but not fasting blood glucose level in the HC group compared to the control group, suggestive of obese and HC state (Figure 1). MI was also evident by prominent observation of myocardial necrosis accompanied by infiltration of inflammatory cells in cardiac histology, although cardiac troponin T was not significantly elevated (Figure 2). Although liver function test showed significant elevation of AST but not ALT, but liver histological observation showed the presence of mixed steatosis and ballooning degeneration, suggestive of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease development (Figure 3). Nonetheless, kidney function test revealed a significant creatinine elevation but not urea level (Figure 4).

 

Collectively, these findings suggest that supplementation of HCD for 10 weeks together with administration of isoprenaline successfully developed a rat model of HC with MI as shown across elevated systemic cholesterol level, BMI, and myocardial necrosis. This study provides useful data on the establishment of the model which could be used in the future.
Knowledge and Practice Regarding Contact Lens Wear and Care Among Undergraduate Students in Universiti Sains Malaysia
Authors: Asnil Khairi Nurul Akmal , Mohd Zain Norhasmah
Published: November 2022

Contact lenses are thin optical correction lenses worn on the eye and rest on the cornea’s surface. The number of individuals who wear contact lenses is growing every day, but many people are unaware of the benefits and drawbacks of wearing them. Contact lens wear and care that is not adhered to can lead to severe ocular complications and permanent vision loss [1]. Overall rates of non-compliance with good contact lens wear have been cited in the literature as ranging from 40-91% in the past [2]. Knowledge and practice regarding contact lens wear and care is very important to control its progression and its complication effectively.

 

The objective of this cross-sectional study is to determine the knowledge and practice regarding contact lens wear and care and factor associated with the practice among undergraduate students in Universiti Sains Malaysia who have experienced wear contact lens. The questionnaire adopted from Abd Aziz et al [3] was distributed using the online method of Google form between January to May 2022. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26. Descriptive statistics were performed to determine the knowledge and practice. General linear regression modelling was used to analyze factors associated with practice.

 

A total of 170 undergraduate students from various faculties on 3 campuses of USM aged 20-27 years old were involved in this study. Regularity of contact lens use showed most respondents used contact lens as occasionally (38.8%) and for 4-6 days per weeks (25.3%). Half of respondent mentioned their purpose of contact lens use as a refractive error (51.2%) and there is similar percentage in term of duration of contact lens use for less than 1 year and 5 years (30% and 30.6% respectively). Mean score of knowledge was 21.71 ± 2.46 with 51.8% of the respondents in this study have poor knowledge of contact lens wear and care. Mean score of practice was 22.49 ± 2.76 with majority of the respondent (74.1%) have poor practice regarding contact lens wear and care. In the final model of general linear regression, factors associated with the practice of contact lens wear and care were gender, course of study, purpose of using contact lens, duration of contact lens use and knowledge of contact lens wear and care (p < 0.05).This study indicate there is a need for health education and awareness program to contact lens wearers especially among young people regarding contact lens usage, care, and its related complications
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Over-The-Counter Analgesics among Undergraduate Students in Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Amin Siti Nur'ain Suraya , Mohd Rasani Ali Aminuddin , Mamat Mohd Noor
Published: November 2022

Over-the-Counter (OTC) analgesics are one of the convenient and effective pain treatments used in both developed and developing countries [1]. However, depending on how to utilize it, this treatment could lead to dangerous effects and complications [2,3,4]. A cross-sectional study was conducted on Medical, Dental, and Nursing students on Health Campus, USM to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice of OTC analgesics. The study aims to identify the association of sociodemographic data with Knowledge level, Fisher Exact Test and Pearson Chi-Square was used. This study also aimed to determine the correlation between Knowledge, attitude, and practice of OTC analgesics. Pearson Correlation test was used for this objective. Out of 285 undergraduate students, 199 from Medical, 53 from Dental, and 33 from Nursing were selected through a simple random sampling technique. The data was run in SPSS the was using SPSS version 26. Most of the students are female students (58.2). The finding shows that undergraduate students in Health Campus USM were having a moderate knowledge level (M = 5. 91, SD=1.048) as shown in Figure 1. As for the attitude and practice level, the score revealed 60.4% of students with a good attitude (M= 23.93, SD=3.195) and 61.4% of students with fair (M= 20.26, SD 3.526) as shown in Figures 2 and 3. There was no relationship of any sociodemographic data to be found significant. On the other hand, the knowledge has a significant relationship with (r = 0. 292, p-value < 0.001).  attitude, and attitude also shows significant relationship with practice (r = 0. 220, p-value < 0.001). In conclusion, students’ knowledge needs to be enhanced through the curriculum to improve their awareness of safe medication practice.
Antibacterial Potential of Methanol Extract of Red Guava Leaves (Psidium guajava L.) Against Salmonella typhi
Authors: Ginting Gabriella Marchelita , Ira Gracela  , Meldawati  , Adek Amansyah
Published: November 2022

Background: Typhoid fever is a fever caused by an infection of the gastrointestinal tract, where the infection is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi. This infection is generally found in environmental conditions with dense populations and poor hygiene levels. Various plants have been used from generation to generation to treat typhoid fever, one of which is red guava leaves. This study aims to further explore the potential of methanol extract of red guava leaves (Psidium guajava L.) on the activity of Salmonella thyphi in vitro.

Methods: This study is an in vitro experimental study using Salmonella thyphi culture. The phytochemical screening test was carried out on the methanol extract of red guava leaves. Furthermore, an assessment of the diameter of the inhibition zone between groups was carried out. Univariate and bivariate analyzes were performed to compare between groups.

Results: There was an increase in the diameter of the inhibition zone along with an increase in the dose of methanol extract from red guava leaves. A dose of 100 mg/mL of red guava leaf extract showed a maximum inhibition diameter of 11.85 cm.

Conclusion: Methanol extract of red guava leaves (Psidium guajava L.) has the antibacterial activity of Salmonella thyphi along with increasing concentrations.
Consumer Religiosity and Its Influence on Their Uptake and Consumption of Edible Insects Among Selected Communities in Western Kenya
Authors: Ogal Pascal Otieno , Ayieko Monica , Angira Charles
Published: November 2022

Global food demand is expected to rise due to the population increase estimated to reach 9.5 billion by the year 2050. As a result, the available natural resources such as water sources and land will become scarce and overused. Indisputably, other sustainable food resources need to be identified and practised to solve the problem of food inadequacy. The world population will be encouraged to eat less consumed food resources. Edible insects have been identified as sustainable food resource that is rich in protein and other nutrients. Even though it is still facing rejection among certain consumers due to unknown reasons, factors influencing entomophagy have now been studied from different angles of the world communities. A descriptive research design with both qualitative and quantitative methodology was employed, using a semi-structured questionnaire loaded in an Open Data Kit (ODK) Collect software. Additionally, a simple random sampling technique was used to measure the following constructs. Demographics, religiosity on the consumption of insects, contrasting beliefs among the selected religious societies on edible insects’ consumption. There was an association between religious restriction and the consumption of edible insects at a P-value less than 0.05. However, it is unclear why individuals from religious groupings would choose not to consume insects while others condone the practice. The eating of insects is cited in religious doctrines. Nonetheless, there is still low consumption of edible insects among different religious believers. Religiosity has deterred individuals from indulging in certain food items. How comes they do not indulge in what their doctrines recommend? We, therefore, wish to find out why religion has not encouraged persons to adopt entomophagy. This study, therefore, seeks to examine the influence of religiosity on the consumption and uptake of edible insects among the selected communities in Western Kenya. The data for this study will be collected through the administration of a well-formulated electronic questionnaire and multivariate qualitative models
Surface In-situ Stabilization of Saturated Ash for CCR Impoundment Closures
Authors: Lear Paul
Published: November 2022

The operation of heavy equipment on the surface of saturated coal ash during the closure of impoundments containing CCR poses significant safety concerns. Saturated ash has little to no bearing strength and the depth of saturated ash in CCR impoundments can range up to hundreds of feet. In-Situ Stabilization (ISS) technology (treatment of the top 3 to 5 feet of saturated CCR material) may be used to quickly produce a stable work platform for subsequent CCR placement and compaction and capping activities within the impoundment. The plan area of the saturated ash is divided into a number of treatment cells, each sized to require a 25-ton truckload of Portland cement. Working from the edges of the treatment cells, the Portland cement is mixed into the saturated ash using long-reach excavators. Within 48 to 72 hours, the treated material develops sufficient bearing capacity to support the operation of long-reach excavators and treat the next row of treatment cells. With the stable work platform established, placement and compaction and capping activities can be conducted, operating safely on the ISS-treated CCR material.
Determination of design parameters for solidification-stabilization soil improvement in retaining structures
Authors: Lundberg Beijer
Published: November 2022

The solidification-stabilization (S-S) method has evolved as a method to contain pollutants and modify the mechanical properties of soil. The benefits of the use of the stabilized material (S-S soil) as part of the backfill material in retaining walls are especially significant since near-shore sediments in port areas are frequently polluted and very soft, and consequently cannot be used directly in construction. There are however large differences in the practical design of such structures due to the loading conditions and time consideration. This paper reviews the traditional framework for the design of stabilized soil and highlights the main differences which need to be included in a rigorous design model when the S-S method is used for backfilling retaining structures. Data from large port-extension projects exhibits typical natural soil parameters and the possible improvement in the mechanical parameters.
MATHEMATICAL MODEL TO EVALUATE NON-DETERMINISTIC CUMULATIVE DAMAGE IN AN ORGANIZATION
Authors: Srinivasan V. , Raman J.
Published: November 2022

Unsystematic events like shocks can harm an organization and lead to its demise. The damage is not harmful by itself because of the one-failure time. The organization could eventually collapse due to the alternating damage. The organization fails once the total harm reaches a particular point. To ascertain when the organization's response plan is necessary, the inter-arrival time of harm is estimated. This study will employ the Exponentiated Exponential Binomial Distribution.
Determining the frequency of Plummer Vinson Syndrome among patients having dysphagia presenting at district Bahawalpur
Authors: Nasir Wakeel  , Masood Akhtar  , Aasma Tariq  , Iqra Gull  , Hamna Hafeez  , Nayab Anjum
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: Plummer Vinson syndrome (PVS) is a rare triad of dysphagia, iron deficiency, and esophageal webs. This study aims to assess the frequency of PVS in patients presenting with dysphagia.

METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Otolaryngology from 1st April 2020 to 31st March 2021. A total of 164 patients having dysphagia for a minimum of two weeks duration were enrolled. The patient's data was recorded using a pre-designed questionnaire for PVS assessments, complete blood count, serum ferritin levels and barium swallow test results were obtained, and a radiologist was consulted for the upper esophageal web.

RESULTS: The observed frequency of PVS among patients with dysphagia was 11(6.7%). Female gender turned out to be significantly associated with PVS occurrence (p=0.001), while age (p=0.748) and duration of dysphagia (p=1.00) showed no significant association with it. Among those with PVS, 72.7% of patients were >40 years of age, 90.9% were females, and 81.8% had a duration of dysphagia >4 weeks. 

CONCLUSION: It is concluded that PVS is not very frequent among patients with dysphagia. But since it increases the risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the pharynx and the esophagus, therefore, such patients should be followed closely for the presence of PVS and treated promptly to avoid morbidity and mortality.
THE ROLE OF THE REGULATORY AGENCY IN THE ADOPTION OF TARIFF SYSTEMS: ROUND TABLE DISCUSSION - REPORT AND CONCLUSION
Authors: Mićo Klepo
Published: November 2022

In late 2006, the Croatian Energy Regulatory Agency adopted methodologies for the calculation  of tariffs for the activities of the generation, transmission, distribution and supply of electricity,  which until now have been components of a single tariff for an integrated system of the activities  of the generation, transmission, distribution and supply of electricity. Pursuant to the legal  obligations to separate these activities, as also expressed through the approach of the cited  methodologies of the tariff systems, activities are in progress in reference to the calculation and  adoption of tariff items for the aforementioned fundamental energy activities.  With the application of the cited methodologies, i.e. the adoption and coming into force of the  new tariff systems of the electricity sector and the electricity sector of the Republic of Croatia, a  new trial regulatory period will be entered. Therefore, for the regulatory agency, representatives  of the regulated entities, and professional public, discussion of several questions and dilemmas  from this area at a meeting among representatives of various interested parties was considered  to be of great importance and benefit.
APPLICATION OF THE MÖBIUS STRIP IN ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING
Authors: Dušan Vujević
Published: November 2022

The one-sided two-dimensional surface known as the Möbius strip, in addition to applications  in the arts and various branches of technology, is also used in electrical engineering,  most frequently in the construction of low-ohm non-inductive resistors, particularly  in high frequency and pulse devices, as well as capacitor systems in high frequency units  and microwave resonators and filters, for which there are four registered patents in the  United States.
REVOLUTIONARY LOVE TO MARITAL MUTUALITY INTERPRETING INTER-CASTE MARRIAGES IN MANJU BALA’S SELECTED SHORT STORIES
Authors: Sinha Atreyee
Published: November 2022

Endogamy is an age- old compulsory condition for Brahminic India, as prescribed by Hindu scriptures, to maintain the purity of caste. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar thus advocates inter- caste marriage as the practical panacea to eradicate traditional caste stratification in Indian society. Though exogamy has been legitimised under the Special Marriage Act, 1954, still assimilation of caste through marriage remains a taboo in most part of India even in this twenty first century. Therefore, union outside caste are unlikely to get parental consent and turn to be revolutionary love stories. However, not all such unconventional marriages could exactly exemplify the similar spirit of Ambedkar’s view of exogamy. There remains a possibility underneath that their emotional bonding deteriorates to be an unsound marital relationship in this casteist society, at least in this seemingly caste- neutral state West Bengal. This article employs a deductive, analytical, objective method which assists to trace down those instances from Bengali Dalit writer Manju Bala’s short stories that may enquire if the Dalit girls are happily out- married or not.
Towards an Islamic Psychology and Psychotherapy
Authors: BENDECK SOTİLLOS Samuel
Published: November 2022

Due to the destructive legacy of colonialism within the Islamic world, traditional or premodern wisdom has, in large part, been brushed aside in favor of a materialistic and reductionistic outlook based on the shifting sands of modern intellectual fashions. Modern Western psychology emerged through the secularizing trajectory of the Renaissance, the Scientific Revolution, and the Enlightenment project; all of which contributed to the purging of metaphysics and the human soul’s intrinsic connection to the spiritual dimension within the discipline. Due to the growing interest in restoring this vital dimension, Islamic psychology—akin to other traditional understandings of the mind known as perennial psychology—addresses this need to understand human behavior in light of the sacred.
HUBUNGAN ANTARA STRESS BELAJAR DENGAN PRESTASI BELAJAR SISWA FULL DAY SCHOOL DI SD AL KAUTSAR KOTA SURABAYA
Authors: A.S Rezka Malinda , Irmayanti Nur , Zuroida Aironi
Published: November 2022

This study aims to determine whether there was a relationship between learning stress and student achievement in full day school in Surabaya city. Stress of learning in question was the pressure faced by children related to school that has an impact on physical, psychological health and learning performance. So that there was one relationship that was investigated in this study, namely the correlation between learning stress and learning achievement. This research was conducted on elementary school children with a total of 146 research subjects, consisting of 86 boys and 60 girls covering grades 4 & 5 elementary school. The data collection tool was in the form of a learning stress questionnaire consisting of 30 items and a recapitulation of the report card PAS (end of semester assessment) for 1 year. Data analysis was performed using pearson product moment statistical correlation techniques with the help of the SPSS program (statistical product and service solution) 21. From the analysis of research data obtained correlation values between learning stress with learning achievement of 0,163 with p of 0,488. This shows that there was a significant correlation between learning stress and learning achievement. This means that the higher the stress of learning, the lower the learning achievement of full day school students in SD Surabaya city and vice versa the lower the stress of learning, the higher the learning achievement of full day school students in SD Surabaya city.
CLUSTERS AND INNOVATION: THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN MEMBERSHIP IN CLUSTERS ORGANISATIONS AND TECHNOLOGICAL MATURITY OF COMPANIES IN POLAND
Authors: Mackiewicz Mart , Pavelkova Drahomira
Published: November 2022

This article aims to investigate the relationship between cluster organisation membership and the performance of companies in terms of their technological maturity. The article introduces and operationalises a new concept of technological maturity which reflects competitiveness, innovativeness, and market reputation of a company in a particular sector. To compare the technological maturity between cluster organisation members and non-members a composite index was created. The study is based on theoretical and empirical analyses. The empirical part is based on firm-level data collected in the survey from 464 companies identified in the technological fields covered by the National Smart Specializations in Poland. A set of statistical tests has been employed to assess whether (a) the indicators differ significantly between cluster organisation members and non-members (b) the composite index differs significantly between cluster organisation members and non-members. Results of the analysis show a positive relationship between being a member of the cluster organisation and the technological maturity of the company. The regression analysis proved that the relationship remains significant when controlling for the industry, geographical location, and size of a company. The article contributes to the discussion about the role of cluster organisations and their economic impact.