bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data Science/ AI: A Possible Panacea for Refugee Crisis
Authors: Shrivastava Avi
Published: March 2023

Data and information are currently the two threads that intertwine to weave the shimmery fabric of modern society. We often use data and information interchangeably, but they differ considerably. For example, information analysis reveals a rationale, and logic, while data analysis, on the other hand, reveals a pattern. Moreover, patterns revealed by data can enable us to create the necessary tools to combat huge problems on our hands. They paint a clear picture so that the decision-making process becomes simple. Moreover, to solve the refugee crisis, we need to leverage that.  

 

The refugee crisis does not have binary answers. Given the emotionally wrenching nature of the ground realities, experts often shy away from realistically stating things as they are. This hesitancy can cost lives. When our decisions are based solely on data, we can remove emotions from our decision-making steps. Data also presents irrefutable evidence and tells whether there is a solution or not. Moreover, it also responds to a nonbinary crisis with a binary answer. Because of all that, it becomes easier to tackle a problem.

 

Data science and A.I. can predict future refugee crises. With the recent explosion of data due to the rise of social media platforms, data and insight into data has solved many social and political problems. Data science can also help solve many problems refugees face while staying in refugee camps or a new country. This paper looks into various ways data science can help solve refugee problems.
“From the West, Clouds come hurrying with the wind” - Caribbean & African feminism: Trends Examined
Authors: Armstrong Rachelle , Wabuke Emmah
Published: March 2023

To describe Caribbean and African feminism as interwoven is an understatement. Their correlation is irrefutable, sharing commonalities across concepts of gender and sexuality, labour, and feminist organization. Both feminisms share the distinctive characteristic of being in constant flux, being especially influenced by the colonial structures that continue to pervade our society today. As a result of colonialism, the gender identity and sexuality of the Caribbean and African female subject have been subject to regulation and policing, in order to ensure that the recipients of patriarchal privilege are made explicit. Likewise, attempts have also been made to control the Caribbean and African entrepreneurial community. The space these women have created for themselves in order to escape the racialised and genderised barriers associated with formal labour, is being constantly devalued through the implication that this space is in need of legitimisation. Over time, these feminisms have grown to centre a multitude of social, economic and political concerns. The contributions they have made to society however, are under constant threat of erasure.
Biomimetic Research of Fish Mucus and Cargo Ships
Authors: Wood Madison
Published: March 2023

The goal of this research was to determine if one could increase the efficiency of drag and energy loss on containership hulls in the water by utilizing the principles of biomimetics. All species of fish contain a coat of mucus which makes the surface of the fish slippery and reduces drag, adds external protection and many additional advantages. The mucus layer fills the gaps of a body to make a smooth and slippery surface for minimum drag while also providing hydrodynamic advantages by increasing velocity from which the surrounding fluid hits  the surface of the fish. Increase in efficiency during movement on water was determined by the different travel speeds using 2 cargo ship model boats (one was coated with fish mucus on the hull and the other one was left uncoated). It was observed that the ship with fish mucus on its hull increased in speed and decreased the drag force, thus making the travel more efficient. The data obtained in this experiment supports the hypothesis that cargo ships would use less fuel and waste less energy with a fish mucus-like synthetic on their hulls.
Predicting Flood Streamflow with Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average Models
Authors: Yang Everest , Zhuang Yong
Published: March 2023

Flooding is the most common natural disaster and continues to increase in frequency and intensity due to climate changes [7]. Currently, there is a lack of efficient tools to predict flooding. This research is aimed to create a Time Series Machine Learning (ML) program using Auto Regressive Moving Average (ARIMA) models to forecast streamflow, one of the most prominent factors in flood prediction. A streamflow dataset from the Ganges River, Bangladesh was used to plot several graphs of the river Log Volume to observe possible trends. Another plot was graphed to check and quantify how much the distribution of the stream volume changed over the course of 10 years using KL Divergence. The plot analyses and Partial Autocorrelation Function (PACF) and Autocorrelation Function (ACF) tests were used to help obtain the ARIMA parameters of (p, d, q) as (1, 1, 1). However, the forecasted streamflow of the ARIMA function was not accurate when compared with previously recorded data because of heavy seasonality. As a result, the final program was redesigned with Seasonal ARIMA (SARIMA) to account for the inaccuracy. The SARIMA model was used to forecast the streamflow of subsequent years and was close to the actual recorded data. Such accuracy indicates that this method can be a useful tool in navigating and preparing for floods.
Effects of Chinese Stock Market Policies on Chinese Stocks Listed in the United States
Authors: Radkov Connor , Tipping Blythe
Published: March 2023

Chinese stock market policies have shown to increase stock volatility on domestic Chinese stock exchanges (Wang et al, 2017). However, little research has been conducted on the effects of Chinese stock market policy on Chinese stocks listed on U.S. exchanges. It was hypothesized that Chinese stock market policies had a major effect on Chinese stocks listed on U.S. stock exchanges. Key dates on which Chinese stock market policies were passed were studied to see if there was a relationship to Chinese stocks in U.S. markets. The list of policies was sourced from Wang and associates. A list of Chinese stocks that listed on U.S. exchanges before January 2021 was acquired from the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission. Percentage change was analyzed for Chinese stocks one week, one month, and six months after a Chinese stock market policy was passed. Percentages were then averaged and compared to the mean percent movement of the iShares Russell 1000 ETF (Ticker $IWB) for the same time periods. A two-sample t-test was conducted on the average percent movements of the three categories of Chinese companies and $IWB. Since all P values were above the accepted alpha value of 0.05, it was concluded that there was no significant difference between Chinese companies and $IWB for all three time periods analyzed in the study. This suggests that there is no causal relationship between Chinese stock market policies and the price of Chinese stocks on U.S. stock exchanges.
Asymmetric Electrospun Nanofiber Composed Of Polycaprolactone, Chitosan, and Curcumin To Promote Chronic Wound Healing
Authors: Doppalapudi Laasya , Wilson Brett , Tomlinson Michael
Published: March 2023

Chronic wounds are a growing medical issue around the world, with 2.4 - 4.5 million people afflicted in the United States alone. The condition currently makes up 2-3% of healthcare costs for developed countries, and this number is expected to increase as chronic wound-causing problems, like diabetes, grow in prevalence. Due to the lack of effective wound dressings, chronic wounds face a higher risk for bacterial infection and express high morbidity and mortality rates. Many current dressings are homogeneous and fail to account for the complexities of the different layers of skin. Alternatively, asymmetric electrospun nanofibers have a bilayer design that corresponds to the skin’s dermis and epidermis. We intend to demonstrate that an asymmetric electrospun nanofiber composed of polycaprolactone (PCL), chitosan (CS), and curcumin (Cur) can be utilized as a chronic wound dressing. These three biodegradable and biocompatible components were applied in an asymmetric design to mimic the protective epidermis and porous dermis. Upon electrospinning our asymmetric nanofiber and running it through a scanning electron microscope, we found that our hydrophobic PCL layer had a low porosity (52.16%) and thin nanofibers (281.82 nm), while our hydrophilic PCL/CS/Cur layer had a high porosity (61.18%) and thick nanofibers (425.54 nm). Our asymmetric nanofiber was also more effective at resisting bacterial permeation than the homogeneous PCL nanofiber. Our results highlight the superiority of asymmetric membranes for resisting bacterial infection and suggest that with further experimentation, we can establish our nanofiber as a viable wound dressing.
The Applications of the CRISPR/Cas9 Gene-Editing System in Treating Human Diseases
Authors: Varanasi Akanksha , Wilson Elisabeth
Published: March 2023

In the early 2010s, scientists realized that CRISPR/Cas9, a bacterial immune defense system against viruses that involves the CRISPR-associated protein #9 (Cas9) endonuclease enzyme, single-guide RNAs (sgRNAs), and PAM recognition, could be used to intentionally manipulate genes, essentially changing gene expression and regulation in such a way that would allow for a customized genome. Since then, CRISPR technology has revolutionized medical research and the biotechnology industry, and its newfound capabilities have scientists asking if CRISPR can be used to modify genes in such a way that would cure or treat certain harmful or life-threatening diseases. There have been CRISPR-based clinical studies done to treat β-thalassemia (TDT), sickle-cell disease (SCD), the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and several other genetic and non-hereditary diseases, but there is still a long way to go before CRISPR can become a widespread treatment for many more such diseases (Ebina et al., 2013; Esrick et al., 2021; Frangoul et al., 2021). Currently, researchers are looking to see if CRISPR is an accurate, specific, non-harmful, and effective treatment for these diseases, which means addressing and eliminating potential concerns about its safety and efficacy through extensive pre-clinical and clinical research, as well as overcoming moral and social obstacles. In this review, I will look at how the CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing system can be applied in humans to prevent, cure, or treat these diseases, as well as what needs to be done before the CRISPR/Cas9 system can be made publicly available as a medical treatment for diseases.
Treating Dilated Cardiomyopathy with Methylene Blue Using the Drosophila melanogaster Heart Model
Authors: Zhang Tiffany , Pan Yida , Spinelli Nicole
Published: March 2023

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), the most common cardiomyopathy, is characterized by ventricular dilation and impaired heart contractility. Past studies found that the inhibition of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), a crucial protein degradation system that removes dysfunctional proteins, plays a key role in the pathogenesis of DCM. Since treatments for DCM only aim at alleviating heart failure symptoms, a new therapeutic was sought. Methylene blue (MB) was selected because of its cardioprotective properties and ability to increase proteasome activity, potentially allowing it to revert the impact of an impaired UPS. The Drosophila melanogaster strain wupA, which presents DCM symptoms, was used and treated with MB (30 μM). The flies’ lifespans and negative geotaxis were assessed, and dissections were conducted to analyze heart rates (HR), heart diameters, and fractional shortening (FS) with ImageJ. The log-rank test and t-tests were used to analyze statistical significance. Results showed that DCM increased the heart diameters (p<0.01) and decreased the HR (p<0.05), FS (p<0.01), and negative geotaxis (p<0.01). MB fully restored the dilated heart diameters and impaired FS as there was no significant difference between control and experimental groups (p>0.05), exhibiting potential in treating DCM. However, MB didn't affect the impaired HR and negative geotaxis of flies with DCM. Hence, future studies should investigate supplemental treatments to fully restore those properties.
Using Virtual Machine Size Recommendation Algorithms to Reduce Cloud Cost
Authors: Chin Kenhao , Zhao Justin , Shan Eric , Zong Ziliang
Published: March 2023

Cloud spending has risen on a year-to-year basis, with the pandemic acting as the primary catalyst for its recent growth; however, “cloud waste,” referring to cloud resources that are not used to their full capacity, also follows this upward trend and causes the loss of an increasingly large amount of money. Unfortunately, present-day cloud research lacks data-driven studies that analyze why cloud users are wasting resources, or suggestions to users on how to lessen such waste. In order to prevent this over-expenditure, it is vital to choose the best-suited options when it comes to virtual machines (VM), especially for small to mid-sized businesses with limited funds and a lack of expertise. In this paper, we first analyzed the 235 GB Azure user dataset from the users’ perspective. We then implemented machine learning to determine our pricing model and the VM costs. With these statistics, we then delineated our methodology to calculate the wasted cost of each VM, and using this data, we propose an algorithm that can identify potential candidates with wasteful VMs and assist users in reducing costs. By applying our algorithm to approximately 2.7 million VMs, we demonstrate that it has the ability to help 66,721 VMs created by 1,520 users lower their monthly costs by $14.9 million. We conclude that businesses, while still reaping the benefits of cloud services, can do so at a much lighter cost and save on their VMs.
DeepSPICE: Accelerating Digital Cell Characterization Using Deep Learning
Authors: Suriyaprakash Ishwar , Burroughs Greg
Published: March 2023

This paper introduces DeepSPICE, a machine learning approach to accelerate the characterization of the building blocks, or cells, of digital integrated circuits. In contrast to the current approach of computing the input-to-output propagation delays of a cell by simulating all possible input event combinations, DeepSPICE employs a Deep Neural Network (DNN) to learn from the propagation delays obtained by simulating a small subset of input event combinations and to predict those for the rest. The DNN for training and prediction is created using the Keras framework, and Python is used for automating the entire flow. The effectiveness of the DeepSPICE approach is demonstrated on 14 CMOS logic cells with the number of inputs ranging from 2 to 7. Simulations to create the training set for each cell are performed using the open source NGSPICE circuit simulator on their transistor-level circuit descriptions. Experiments using two different train:test ratios of 0.25:0.75 and 0.3:0.7 demonstrate the promise of reduction in time with DeepSPICE, especially for large cells where simulation costs are expensive. For cells with at least 6 inputs, DeepSPICE computes propagation delays for all input event combinations 2 to 2.2 times faster than baseline while limiting the error between 6.3% and 12.3%.
Towards a Supersonic Transport: Minimization of Sonic Boom
Authors: Goel Nimish , Jawahar Shrinivas
Published: March 2023

An aircraft exceeding the speed of sound can cover large distances in short amount of time and has several important applications. Thus, there has always been an interest in producing a Supersonic Transport (SST) Aircraft for commercial usage in recent decades. However, the problem of sonic boom restricts operations over inhabited/ land areas. This major obstacle to overland supersonic flight has been subject of governmental and private research for a long time. The research has two parts: minimum acceptable parameters of ground boom signatures for supersonic flight and reduction of Sonic Boom. The methods developed to reduce the boom are generally classified into Aircraft operations, Design, and Exotic methods. This paper reviews the significant methods proposed under each of these categories with special emphasis on design. Due to the range and complexity of methods proposed, there is no consensus amongst the scientific community about the design for an SST. The requirements of low boom design conflict with the requirements of carriage of an effective payload and basic aerodynamics. With the development of high- fidelity CFD and wave propagation programmes like PCBoom, analysing new designs has become easier and understanding of the contribution of various configurations on ground signatures has improved. This has led to promising developments like the X-59 research aircraft, making this field of study one of the most exciting in the aviation industry today.
Sensory Marketing Theory: How Sensorial Stimuli Influence Consumer Behavior and Subconscious Decision-Making
Authors: Kulkarni Pranav , Kolli Harish
Published: March 2023

Sensory marketing is a rapidly advancing field of marketing that allows brands to capitalize on consumer behavior, more specifically subconscious decision-making. By understanding how the brain processes and evaluates sensorial stimuli, we can better understand how sensorial cues can lead to emotional and brand attachment with consumers. After identifying the significance of embodied cognition and how sensory awareness influences human behavior, we analyzed how sensory marketing can evoke certain bodily sensations. By conducting various case study analyses through “Neural Correlates of Behavioral Preference for Culturally Familiar Drinks” and “The Influence of In-Store Music on Wine Selections”, we’ve been able to visualize data that supports evidence of auditory stimuli' effects on in-store decision-making as well as evidence of subconscious brand preference for consumers. Furthermore, we’ve examined how the anticipation of certain brands results in increased amygdala activation, showing how sensory marketing can alter the way our brains perceive the merit of products. Finally, we’ve created a conceptual model that allows for a better understanding of the sensory marketing progression on the consumer’s end.
Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer Metabolism and Their Cellular Cycles
Authors: Ganga Harshita , Appavu Rajagopal
Published: March 2023

Cancer is a prevalent disease, with 1,752,735 new cases reported to the CDC in 2019.  The disease is characterized by uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. Current treatments for cancer can affect the whole body and have detrimental effects. Cancer cells are often programmed metabolically. In recent years, treatments to undermine this metabolic reprogramming have come to the forefront. In this review, we explore some of the molecular mechanisms underlying certain dietary interventions and critical metabolic pathways. Dietary interventions such as chronic calorie restriction (CR) and fasting have been shown to aid in adjusting metabolic reprogramming to help in reducing cancer progression. Other dietary interventions target amino acid (AA) metabolism. Essential AAs are only consumed from the diet and their restriction has been shown to work as a treatment in mice. Lastly, central carbon metabolism includes the TCA cycle and glycolysis, both commonly reprogrammed pathways in cancer cells. Other dietary interventions and the reprogramming of these pathways can be used to treat cancer in other ways, such as knocking out genes and cell cycle arrest.
Recent Advances in Alzheimer’s Disease Treatments with Therapeutic Antibodies to Amyloid-β
Authors: Yang Jerry , Bradford Aaron
Published: March 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent and devastating neurodegenerative disorders which affects tens of millions of patients. It imposes significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens on patients, families, and society. Formation of Amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques from the accumulation of Aβ peptides in the cortex and hippocampal region is considered one of the fundamental neuropathological pillars of the disease. Pathological Aβ peptides are generated from its precursor protein through proteolysis. Four small molecule medications were approved by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 1968 to treat the cognitive symptoms of AD, but they are not curative and have no effect on the development of AD. At least four anti-Aβ antibodies and dozens of other anti-Aβ small molecule agents have been evaluated in clinical trials in the past decades but none of them showed consistent clinical efficacy, presumably because they cannot remove Aβ plaques effectively enough or other reasons such as the patient selection and trial design. Despite the failures, more anti-Aβ antibodies are under development, aiming for more efficient Aβ plaques removal through selectively targeting Aβ oligomers. Among those aducanumab was approved by FDA in 2021 as the first drug to address the underlying biology of AD rather than the symptoms.
The Explanation of the dependency of the efficacy of ADHD treatments on the age of the recipient.
Authors: Chew Rebecca
Published: March 2023

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a highly prevalent neuropsychiatric disorder, affecting people of all age groups. Several treatment methods have proven to be effective in ameliorating ADHD symptoms, most falling under the categories of stimulants, non-stimulants and non-pharmacological. However, many experimental studies have shown that the efficacy of certain ADHD treatments is dependent on the age of the subject. In this paper, I will be providing insight into possible explanations of this phenomenon. By understanding this, not only can we better understand the changes that occur in the brain with age, but also the disorder itself and possible treatment methods.
A Review of the pharmacological treatments of Alzheimer’s disease (AD)
Authors: Jiang Derrick Feng , Xiao Yaotian
Published: March 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an irreversible, neurodegenerative disease that has haunted millions of lives globally. This article briefly reviews the diagnosis and pathophysiology behind AD while focusing on the currently approved and potential pharmacological treatments for AD. Cholinesterase inhibitors and NMDA receptor antagonists have been the most widely used drug to treat AD for decades. In 2003, Aducanumab was authorized by the US FDA for market use but not by other countries. Unfortunately, all the drugs mentioned could only ameliorate the clinical syndromes of AD instead of curing the disease and came with various side effects. Research has shown that the clinical progression of AD happens in parallel with the accumulation of amyloid β plaques and the spread of neurofibrillary tangles composed of hyperphosphorylated tau. There are many potential drugs under different stages of trials, including β‑secretase inhibitors, γ‑secretase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, tau aggregation inhibitors, and other therapeutic strategies. Although they are still immature to be put into clinical use, we are looking forward that a specific and efficient drug that has fewer side effects for AD will be developed in the future.
Analysis On The Impact of Human-Induced Pollutants On River Microbiology
Authors: Cai Shangchen
Published: March 2023

In recent decades, water quality and contaminant concentrations have been tightly regulated by relevant laws and monitoring. However, detailed microbial composition in different environments and their interactions with human activities has yet to be fully characterized. This paper shows how different environments, including city environments and highways, can affect the properties of water bodies closely associated with them geographically. Two pairs of locations along Schuylkill and Wissahickon river were sampled. Through 16s rRNA metagenomic diversity sequencing and a functional gene prediction approach, the taxonomic and predicted gene profiles of

samples from various locations were elucidated. Through comparative study of these samples, the effect of human

activity on the river between the locations were evaluated. In the Wissahickon river, metagenome analysis

indicates that human-induced pollutants potentially fostered the growth of bacteria that are able to utilize them, but

suggests no increment of genes’ abundance that resist their damaging effects, such as heavy metals exporting

ATPase, and various antibiotic resistance genes. In the Schuylkill river, the analysis indicates that the growth of the

aforementioned bacteria is insignificant, and the resistance genes were predicted to decrease in the urban area

where it was anticipated to receive more influence from human activities, rendering the result inconclusive. We

anticipate that this study will become the starting point for future research on microbial populations in water bodies

so that the dynamics of how human activities influence river microbiology can be determined more clearly.
“A Cross-Comparative Study of Adolescent Mental Health and Social Media Use in South Korea and Canada”
Authors: Seo Jiyeon , Kim Leni
Published: March 2023

In an increasingly digital world, the mental health of adolescents is reflected in their interactions on social networking sites (SNS). As adolescence represents a pivotal transitional period characterized by an increase in social relationships, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and its transferal of in-person interactions to online spheres is a crucial component of adolescent mental health in 2022. Where excessive social media using during the lockdowns led to an increase in cyberbullying (highlighted in Canada’s updated criminal code) and eating disorders (explored through mukbang, or ‘escapist eating’ in South Korea), the type of SNS interactions adolescents engage in—comparative social media use and more passive, autonomous enjoyment—are critical to distinguishing between the positive and negative effects of social media on adolescent health. To identify the link between pre, during, and post-pandemic adolescent mental health, this study utilizes a comparative analysis of surveillance and harm within social media consumption in South Korea and Canada. For South Korean and Canadian adolescents, the distinction between active and passive social media use and the degree of online autonomy can define the level of harm to mental stability, emphasizing the importance of autonomous social media consumption in ‘safe digital spaces.’
Hydration Status of University Students in the Fasting Month of Ramadan
Authors: Khattak Muhammad Muzaffar Ali Khan , Mohd Shukri Nor Azwani , Baharuddin Nur Hidaya
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Islamic fasting is widely advocated for its health benefits around the world. According to the Holy Quran, it is prescribed by The Almighty Allah (God) for the Muslim to fast in the holy month of Ramadan of the Islamic Calendar every year. Aim: This study aimed to assess the hydration status of the students who were performing their fasting during the holy month of Ramadan. Methods: Thirty male and female students at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) Kuantan Campus volunteered to participate in this study. All study participants were of healthy and normal body mass index (BMI) according to the WHO classification. Their hydration status was assessed using a bioelectrical impedance (BIA) instrument. This was done before, during, and after fasting, on specific adjusted time post meal. The collected data were compiled and statistically analysed. Results: The results indicated that the total body water (TBW) was increased without affecting the balance of intracellular water (ICW) and extracellular water (ECW) of the fasting study participants. Conclusion: This study indicates that Islamic fasting does not cause a reduction in TBW in fasting individuals. The TBW is maintained due to the burning of body fat.
Investigating the Perception of Muslims With Hearing Impairment Towards Islamic Understanding and Practice
Authors: Rahmat Sarah , Ahmad Nur Shakinah , Shahira Yati Izatey Elleysha , Dzulkarnain Ahmad Aidil Arafat , Mohamed Zain Nor Azrita , A Rahman Shahirah
Published: March 2023

Introduction: This study aims to investigate the relationship between; i) the perception of Islamic obligation and Islamic practice, ii) the perception of difficulty in understanding and practicing Islam and the perception of Islamic practice, iii) hearing loss threshold and the perception of difficulty in understanding and practicing Islam; and iv) to compare the perception of difficulty in understanding and practicing Islam between hearing aid users and non-hearing-aid users. Method: Seventy- seven (77) subjects with hearing impairment underwent audiological assessments and completed the ‘Inventori Persepsi bagi Muslim yang Memiliki Masalah Pendengaran’ (IPM3P) questionnaire (consists of three domains- ‘obligation’, ‘practice’, and ‘difficulty’). Results: Pearson correlation revealed a significant positive correlation (p<0.05) between obligation and practice domain, and between difficulty and practice domain. A significant negative correlation was observed (p<0.05) between hearing threshold and total difficulty domain score. The Independent T-test revealed a significantly greater difficulty in understanding and practicing Islam among non-hearing aid users compared to hearing aid users (p<0.05). Conclusion: The study findings emphasized on; i) the importance to instill good perception of Islamic obligation via appropriate Islamic education, ii) the benefit of hearing aid in elevating the difficulty level in understanding and in practicing Islam, thus calls for prompt action to help in funding amplification for Muslims with hearing impairment.
The Association between Physical Activity Status and Mental Wellbeing among Overweight and Obese Female University Students
Authors: Shahadan Siti Zuhaidah , Bolhan Nurul Syafiqah , Mohamad Ismail Mohamad Firdaus
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Physical activity (PA) is essential in fighting obesity, and it may also improve one’s mental wellbeing. Nonetheless, the association between PA and mental wellbeing among female university students with non-ideal body mass index (BMI) is still fragmented. Hence, this study aims to determine the association between PA status and mental wellbeing among overweight and obese female students in a university in Malaysia’s East region. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 102 overweight and obese female students. An online survey of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and The Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Acreda Scale (WEMWBS-ACREDA) was distributed using convenience sampling and analyzed. Results: The results show that 43.2% of the participants have a high and 18.6% have a low PA level. Meanwhile, the finding revealed that the majority of the participants have a moderate state of mental wellbeing (59.8%). Additionally, physical activity levels were found to be a significant predictor of mental wellbeing in overweight and obese female university students (ᵝ = 0.341, p 0.001). Conclusion: This study proposed that PA may influence the mental wellbeing of female university students with non-ideal BMI. Therefore, incorporating more physical-related activities into their learning objectives may promote a better quality of life during their campus life.
Cardiovascular Disease Risks Among Medical Students in A Public University
Authors: Shalihin Mohd Shaiful Ehsan , Daeng Azaiyni , Halim Imrah , Zainal Nik Adlin , Said Abdul Hadi
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major global health problem, with hazards evident even in children and adolescents. The purpose of this study is to measure the knowledge, attitude and practice of young medical students at the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM) with regards to CVD, their CVD risk score and its associated factors. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 247 preclinical students from March to July 2019. Validated self-reported questionnaires were used which includes sociodemographic, socioeconomic, lifestyle, International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) and Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of CVD. A standardized scales were used to measure body mass index (BMI), digital sphygmomanometer for measuring blood pressure and blood glucose test kit for random blood sugar. CVD risk score was calculated based on a 30-years risk Framingham simple model of calculation using BMI. Univariate analysis and linear regression were used to identify the significant predictors. Results: The mean age was 21 (SD = 1.016) years old. 13.4 % of the students had elevated CVD risk scores. Prevalence central obesity, abnormal random blood glucose and abnormal BMI were 35.2%, 70.4% and 40.5% respectively. The participants scored good marks in KAP (97.6%). The relationship between CVD risk score with increasing age, male gender, smoking, increasing weight, low height, increased BMI and high systolic blood pressure were significant. Conclusion:The major risks of cardiovascular disease are widely distributed among students. Despite being in medical school and having a decent KAP score, there are smokers and students who live a sedentary lifestyle.
Association Between Social Media Use and Depression Among Students of International Islamic University Malaysia Kuantan
Authors: Abdul Ghani Radiah , Abd Nadzir Nur Sarah Nabila , Mohd Noor Hanisah
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Depression is a vital issue to be concerned about because it is anticipated to be one of the major health issues confronting Malaysia in the coming years. Social media has emerged as one of the main contributors to depression due to the increased use of technology in modern society. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between social media use and depression among IIUM students. Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 227 students of IIUM Kuantan from three Kulliyyahs; Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences (KAHS), Science (KOS) and Dentistry (KOD). Convenience sampling was applied and self-administered questionnaires were distributed. Data was analysed using Statistical Package Software for Social Sciences (SPSS), where descriptive frequency table, Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test and Correlation test were applied. Results: This study indicated that the level of social media-related depression among students in selected kulliyyah in IIUM Kuantan was low (n=61, 26.9%). Body image dissatisfaction, online harassment, sleep disturbance and high self-esteem were significantly associated with low depression. Socio-demographic factors, which are the types of kulliyyah and working part-time, were significantly associated with depression, with a p-value of 0.002 and 0.012, respectively. Conclusion: Social media use and depression were associated considerably, involving body image, online harassment, sleep, and self-esteem. A guideline and education for better and safe use of social media in our country should be proposed as part of preventive action in future.
“My Soul is Empty...”: The Intensive Care Patients’ and Their Family Members’ Experience of Spiritual Care
Authors: Baharudin Ayuni Asma’ , Nurumal Mohd. Said
Published: March 2023

Introduction: The intensive care environment may seem intimidating, too focused on the patient survival and causing stress to the patients and the family members. As more patients survive critical illnesses, experts began to shift treatment focus towards survivorships. Based on previous findings, critically ill patients of the intensive care unit (ICU) need psycho-emotional and spiritual care. In addition, these cares are also vital for their family members. This study was conducted to explore patients’ and family members experience in receiving spiritual care in the ICU. Methods: Interviews with patients and their family members were conducted in the ICUs of three government hospitals in Johor. Data from the interviews were recorded, anonymised, and transcribed. Codes and themes were generated using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis. Results: A total of 25 patients and family members were included in this study. The central theme was Faith-based Care. Based on the narratives of the participant’s experience, nine categories of spiritual needs were identified emerging through four themes: 1) Having Faith, 2) Giving-receiving All, 3) Being There, and 4) Letting Go. Conclusion: The intensive care patients and their family members valued the provision of spiritual care from ICU clinicians. Their experience of spiritual care in the ICU can be improved with a model of ICU spirituality. Further research is needed to seek the clinicians’ view on spirituality and to further improve its provision in the ICU settings.
The Level of Emotional Intelligence in Medical Imaging Students
Authors: Binti Ahmad Zaiki Farah Wahida , Binti Wan Nasir Wan Zulaikha
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Emotional intelligence (EI) is a crucial skill that aids students on how to cope with challenging nature of the academic. Emotionally intelligent persons are emotionally, spiritually, intellectually, and physically balanced. This study is aimed to evaluate the average level of EI in medical imaging students whether it is significantly different from the EI value set at 2.5 (high level of emotional intelligence). Methods: This cross-sectional study used the adopted Emotional Intelligence Scale (EIS) questionnaire. Purposive sampling method was conducted on 89 medical imaging students. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. One sample T-test and Pearson correlation test were conducted with the significant p-values were set at <0.05. Results: : The results showed that the medical imaging students’ EI overall mean score was 3.84 (SD:0.38) with p-value of <0.001. There were also significant p-values of <0.001 for all 10 sub-dimensions of EIS. However, there is no significant correlation was found between level of emotional intelligence and year of study of the respondents 0.69 (r-value:-0.043). Significant high level of EI in medical imaging students could plausibly cause the students to have the ability to perceive themselves as efficient, enthusiastic, cheerful, satisfied, and always tend to stay optimistic in life, have greater self-control, able to endure pressure and manage tension, and are conscientious. Conclusion: High emotional intelligence students were predicted to be more poised for success in the future healthcare professions and industries.
Explication of the Relationship Between the Ministers & the Ministry & Christ (1 COR. 3:1-15): Contextual Understanding of Catholic Priests
Authors: Ezeogamba Anthony Ezeogamba
Published: March 2023

The Word became Flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:1-14). This Word is named Jesus Christ (Matt 1:21; Luke 1:31; 2:21).  He took flesh and dwelt among us for the salvation of mankind (Matt. 1:21b).  From the beginning, Jesus knew that the work of salvation has to go on from generation to generation and thus called people who would assist him to propagate the message even when he is no longer there physically. He thus selected disciples and out of the disciples he selected twelve ordinary men named apostles whose names and ministry appear in Matthew 10:2- 26. This shows that Jesus Christ is the one who calls, the one who owns the ministry, and the one who will reward each according to his or her contribution and based on the quality of the contributions.  The greatest problem today is that some ministers have forgotten that the ministry does not belong to them and have no reason at all to quarrel with one another but should see one another as collaborators in Christ's ministry.  Secondly, some people of God have forgotten that every minister has God-given talent which should not warrant them to be involved in a personality cult that is, preferring one minister over another or even preferring a minister to Jesus. This paper aims at explaining again who a minister is, how he should see his fellow minister, and how he should see Jesus Christ.  The work adopts the Historical-Critical Method (HCM) as well as Textual Criticism (TC) to unravel the inner meaning of 1 Cor. 3:1-15. HCM is a branch of criticism that investigates the origins of ancient texts in order to understand the world behind the text – 1 Cor. 3:1-15.  In the same way, TC was used so as to get to the original wording of the text as was written by Paul.  The writer discovers that some ministers have forgotten their roles, their relationship with their fellow ministers, and with Jesus Christ, the owner of the ministry.  The paper recommends, among other things, that there should be the adequate formation of candidates going into the ministry as priests as well as constant catechesis on the part of members of the Church, especially, on the nature of the Church.  This will enable us to avoid unnecessary rivalry in the Church. As a matter of policy, this should be started as soon as a child reaches the age of reasoning.  Hence, the saying, “catch them young.”  Significantly, this work will be of immense benefit to all the members of the Church as well as her ministers.
Global Supply Chain in Covid-19 Crisis
Authors: Fatima Sana , Ahmad Nabeel
Published: March 2023

Amid the Covid-19 crisis, one of the biggest challenges that developing and even developed countries faced was the disruption in the global supply chain. In past decades, there has been an over-reliance on China, the largest manufacturing hub. But when the pandemic hit the world, subsequent lockdowns were imposed. This greatly affected the efficiency of supply chain management. The paper discusses the importance of the global supply chain and how Covid-19 affected the chain. Also, the difference between the pre-Covid era and the post-Covid era has been studied so to understand the necessity of moving from efficiency to resilience.
Innovation as a Catalytic Factor for Growth in Indian Small and Medium Enterprises
Authors: Saxena Ashish , Verma Neerav , Mishra Prerna
Published: March 2023

Innovation is the pre-requisite of survival &success in each generation. Right from the stone age to the digital age of the present day; the human civilization has gone under countless revolutionary changes. Today’s astonishing statusis not reached overnight; nonetheless, it is the result of a very lengthyseries of umpteen subtle changes.Change is an ever-inevitable phenomenon of nature as well as market; which may be in disguise of a challenge or opportunity to every industry and firm.Whether a change is foreseeable or not; its implications and repercussions are affected in a manner, that how that very change is embraced by an organization or industry. An enterprise may be big or small, however the degree of its refinementto accommodate a change is dependent on the consistency and strength of its innovative capacity.

This study is a consolidated review, which seeks to substantiate the existence of a certain correlation between the degree of innovative strategies in the people, product and process of various Indian Small and Medium Enterprises;and the prospective potential of its benefits at the firm level innovation of such enterprises.

Keywords

Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Performance, Competitiveness, Productivity
Cubosomes and its Pharmaceutical Application in Treatment of Cancer
Authors: Deshmukh Shradha Suresh  , Dr. Anil P. Dewani  , Prof (Dr.) A. V. Chandewar
Published: March 2023

Cubosomes are lipid-based nanoparticles that have recently gained attention in the field of pharmaceuticals due to their unique physicochemical properties. These nanoparticles are composed of a highly ordered lipid bilayer that forms a cubic liquid crystalline phase, which can encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs. The unique structure of cubosomes allows for high drug loading and sustained release, making them an attractive option for drug delivery. Cancer treatment is a major focus of research for cubosomes due to their potential for targeted drug delivery. Cubosomes have been shown to be effective in delivering chemotherapeutic agents to cancer cells, increasing drug efficacy while reducing toxicity to healthy tissues. Additionally, the highly ordered structure of cubosomes can be tailored to increase cellular uptake and improve the stability of the drug within the body.Recent studies have demonstrated the potential of cubosomes as an effective drug delivery system for a wide range of anticancer agents, including small molecule drugs, peptides, and nucleic acids. In addition, cubosomes have been explored for use in combination therapy, where multiple drugs can be encapsulated within a single nanoparticle. Overall, cubosomes have shown great promise as a versatile and effective drug delivery system for the treatment of cancer. Further research is needed to fully understand the potential of cubosomes in cancer therapy, including optimization of their structure, improved drug loading efficiency, and increased specificity for cancer cells
Role of Dr. B R Ambedkar in Indian Woman Empowerment
Authors: Dr. Ajay Shankar Panday
Published: March 2023

Dr. Ambedkar, a dedicated warrior and a profound scholar, has made major contributions to society's pursuit of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. He was the first Indian to break down obstacles to women's growth in India. By codifying the common Civil Code for Hindus and other parts of Indian society, he created the groundwork for more tangible and earnest efforts. The purpose of this article is to illustrate Dr. Ambedkar's perspective on women's issues in pre- and post-independence India, as well as its relevance in the current situation. In 1920, Dr. Ambedkar launched his movement. He began ferocious propaganda against the Hindu social system, launching the journals Mook Nayak in 1920 and Bahiskrit Bharat in 1927 to that end.Through its topics, he emphasised gender equality and the need of education, as well as the difficulties of the depressed and women. Dr. Ambedkar's support to enable women to speak fearlessly was seen when RadhabaiVadale addressed a news conference in 1931. In the Bombay Legislative Assembly, he was an outspoken supporter of family planning legislation for women. Dr. Babasaheb dedicated his life to the welfare of women, even if they were involved in undesirable habits and professions such as prostitution. Ambedkar raised awareness among impoverished, uneducated women and motivated them to combat unfair and societal practises like as child marriage and the devadasi system. Dr. Ambedkar attempted to adequately include women's rights into India's political discourse and constitution. In assembly, he persisted on the Hindu Code bill, offering fundamental adjustments and revisions. He also pushed on and summoned all legislative members to assist in passing the bill in parliament. He eventually quit for the same reason. As a result, his genuine interest and compassion for the whole development of women are shown in every statement and word.
A tradução para o cinema do teatro engajado: "Non si paga, non si paga", de Franca Rame e Dario Fo, no Brasil
Authors: Mello Amanda Bruno de , Palma Anna
Published: March 2023

Os dramaturgos Franca Rame e Dario Fo são conhecidos pelo uso do riso como instrumento de ridicularização dos poderosos e fortalecimento das classes menos favorecidas. De seu longo período em atividade, provavelmente o mais engajado é a década de 1970, época em que, entre outras, escreveram a peça Non si paga, non si paga (1974; 2000), recentemente traduzida para o audiovisual no Brasil, no filme Não vamos pagar nada, escrito por Renato Fagundes e dirigido por João Fonseca, lançado em outubro de 2020. Este trabalho pretende investigar de que forma essa tradução adapta a obra de Rame e Fo para o contexto político brasileiro da pandemia, além de “traduzir” um texto teatral para o cinema. Referências importantes para a nossa reflexão são Diniz, Edo, Rosenfeld e Zatlin, e sobre o teatro de Fo e Rame, Farrell.