bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of illiquidity, risk, beta and firm size towards stock returns: ASEAN stock exchanges
Authors: Kuswarianto Ivan , Mahadwartha Putu Anom , Ernawati Endang
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the effect of factors related to the stock return, such as liquidity, company size, risk, and beta of companies listed on ASEAN Exchanges for 2011-2019. This study uses a quantitative approach by using multiple linear regression method. The dependent variable is stock return, while the independent variables used are liquidity, company size, risk, and beta. This research uses 14,580 observations of 1,620 wide-spread companies across Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, and Philippine in nine years. The study finds that illiquidity, risk, and size positively influence stock return significantly, while beta has an insignificant positive effect on stock return. This study also finds that there are country-effect towards stock return in each country.
A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) on Yixing Zisha Teapot Design as Intangible Cultural Heritage
Authors:   National Design Centre, College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia Wuxi Vocational Institute of Arts & Technology,214206, Yixing, Jiangsu, China, He Yinuo , Anwar Rusmadiah ,   National Design Centre, College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Awang Nor Nazida ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara Perak Branch, Seri Iskandar Campus Perak, Malaysia 4GreenSafe (GreSAFE), Faculty of Architecture, Planning, & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi Mara Perak Branch, Seri Iskandar Campus Perak, Malaysia, Pan Shimin ,   National Design Centre, College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia Wuxi Vocational Institute of Arts & Technology,214206, Yixing, Jiangsu, China
Published: September 2024

Promoting traditional culture and intangible cultural heritage has always been a hot topic for the Chinese government, which has also formulated a series of policies to support the development of intangible cultural heritage. As the first batch of intangible cultural heritage recognized by the Chinese government, Yixing Zisha teapot-making techniques have gradually spread in design theory and practise with the promotion of the government and artisans. Therefore, this article systematically reviews the design of Yixing Zisha teapots from the perspective of intangible cultural heritage, emphasising design concepts and design thinking. Critical thinking of bibliometric analysis and literature review was conducted to achieve the research objectives. The results show preliminary design concepts and thinking that emerged in the Yixing Zisha teapot design. However, there needs to be a systematic design theory and framework to promote future design research, pointing out that the research gap can help promote the development of the Yixing Zisha teapot design.
Artistic Conception In Meticulous Flower-and-Bird Painting
Authors:   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Melaka, Malaysia, Libin Yao , Mohammad Noh Liza Marziana ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Melaka, Malaysia, Abd Razak Haslinda ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Melaka, Malaysia
Published: September 2024

Chinese painting has its own unique form of artistic conception, which aims to convey the inner emotions and spirits of different people. Although more and more people are fond of Chinese meticulous painting, their aesthetic views on it are also constantly improving, and they are increasingly emphasizing the spirit of Chinese meticulous flower and bird painting through the expression of their works. Chinese meticulous painting is an inheritance of China's excellent traditions, and the images displayed through the paintings can allow viewers to feel the true emotions of the creators. "Artistic conception" is the source of meticulous flower-and-bird painting art creation, the "soul" of flower-and-bird painting, and also the rich connotation of meticulous flower-and-bird painting art in various periods, and the key and core of creation. In spite of this importance, there are deficiencies in the analysis of artistic conception in contemporary meticulous flower-and-bird painting in the current literature. This study attempts to fill this gap by organizing and analyzing the relevant content of "artistic conception". This paper focuses on the artistic conception of Chinese meticulous flower-and-bird painting. Firstly, an overview of the artistic conception was provided, followed by an analysis of the constituent elements and expressive techniques of the artistic conception in Chinese meticulous painting. Finally, the artistic conception in the creation of Chinese meticulous flower and bird painting was conducted. The results of research and analysis show that the reality of Chinese contemporary meticulous flower-and-bird painting is not only a collection reflection of the essence of objective things, but also a creation of "the unity of mind and scene, the unity of meaning and context" that integrates with the author's personal feeling experience, and is a total embodiment of the combination of the viewer's inner expectation of artistic conception.
An Analysis of Elementary Musical Creativity Contents in China
Authors:   Conservatory of Music, College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia., Yuan Qianyun , Ong Wen Bin ,   Conservatory of Music, College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia.
Published: September 2024

This study aims to examine and analyse the musical creativity content of elementary school music textbooks in China through qualitative document analysis. The selected materials are textbooks published by the People's Music Publishing House and People's Education Press for Grade 5 and 6 students. The frequency and percentage of musical creativity contents were recorded, and the corresponding musical elements and mediums were analysed. The results showed that the musical elements with the highest frequency are rhythm and melody, while the musical mediums with the highest frequency are vocal, body, instrument, and notation.
Wood Carving Motifs in Masjid Lama Tanjung Beringin, Seri Menanti, Negeri Sembilan
Authors:   College of Creative Arts, Univeristi Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Mohd Zaine Muhammad Zulkarnaen , Ab. Aziz Arbai’yah ,   College of Creative Arts, Univeristi Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: September 2024

The sustainability of Malay wood carving motifs in the present era is at stake. The lack of effort to identify and document the motifs led to the weak preservation of this national heritage. This indirectly poses a threat to the Malay identity that has existed since a long time ago. Thus, this research aims to provide additional documentation on Malay wood carving motifs through the observation in Masjid Lama Tanjung Beringin, Seri Menanti, Negeri Sembilan. This mosque was chosen because there is minimal research on wood carving motifs in the southwest coast states of Malaysia. The study's objective is to identify the motifs of wood carving and its categories. This research employed a qualitative method that involved data collection from site observation, in-depth interviews with six selected respondents, and library research. As a result, the findings have identified 16 motifs, 12 inspired by the element of flora, one from fauna, one from calligraphy, one from geometry, and one from still life. This research recommended that more in-depth wood carving studies should be carried out especially in the southwest coast states of Malaysia to promote the Malay identity and to prevent this national heritage from being overwhelmed by contemporary trends.
Exploring the Element of Form Based on Traditional Chinese Auspicious Patterns
Authors:   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Jing Sun , Ab. Aziz Arba’iyah ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Aris Asliza ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi MARA Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: September 2024

Chinese traditional auspicious patterns, which date back more than 5,000 years, are a vital component of national art and traditional culture. These patterns have special meanings and are often associated with good wishes and blessings. Their development reached its peak in the Ming and Qing Dynasties. This research on auspicious patterns focuses mainly on the creation method and classification, with few forms. It seeks to ascertain the features of the traditional auspicious pattern form in China. This study adopts qualitative analysis, specifically in analyzing patterns by observation. Based on Panofsky's theory of iconography, the study selected six common Chinese traditional auspicious patterns and analyzed them to determine their classification, layout, composition and elements. It can be concluded that their form is characterized by various elements, specifically figurative and complete, complex pattern formations, full layout designs, balanced or symmetrical compositions, and single or fit patterns. Thus, this study summarized the pattern form analysis model or the PFC-Model. By addressing this gap in knowledge, the study enhances understanding of auspicious patterns. At the same time, the pattern analysis model can be used to analyze similar patterns, which makes it easier to analyze other pattern forms and brings the study of traditional Chinese patterns to a new height. In the meantime, this research only studies the external form of auspicious patterns. In this regard, as form and color is the first layer of research mentioned in Panofsky's image theory, it needs to be more comprehensive. In the future, researchers can continue to explore its color characteristics and extend the research into the content of the first layer of the theories. Undoubtedly, researchers can also expand the analysis of auspicious patterns using the theory's second and third layers.
A Conceptual Framework in Curatorial Practices in New Media Art in the Malaysian Art Scene
Authors:   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Campus Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia, Daya Daygaret Lembut , Michael Valerie ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Campus Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia, Abu Bakar Muhammad Fauzan ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Campus Kota Samarahan, Sarawak, Malaysia
Published: September 2024

In Malaysia, technological devices such as computers were introduced as one of the art mediums to be used in the 1980s. New media art in Malaysia is often equated with electronic art, digital art, video, and media art. Thus, the objective of this paper is to identify the curatorial practices in new media art practice by the curators in the Malaysian art scene. This paper aims to construct a conceptual framework of curatorial practices in the new media art. This conceptual framework aims to highlight the main attributes and factors in curating new media art in Malaysia’s art scene. The method used in this research is the Kawakita Jiro which extracts the keywords related to the curatorial practices through the literature reviews. The result shows that the curatorial practices in new media art disciplinary, application, concept, perception, production, integration, and awareness are the curatorial practices in new media in the Malaysian art scene, and the conceptual framework shows that the interrelation between each attribute of curatorial practices has contributed to facilitating the production of new media art.
Traditional Chinese Cultural Elements in Ceramic Tea Set Design Based on Morphosemantics
Authors:   National Design Centre, College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia Anhui Finance & Trade Vocational College, Anhui Economics & Management College, 236000, Anhui,Hefei,China, Zhongyue Zuo , Anwar Rusmadiah ,   National Design Centre, College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Awang Nor Nazida ,   College of Creative Arts, Universiti Teknologi Mara Perak Branch, Seri Iskandar Campus Perak, Malaysia 4GreenSafe (GreSAFE), Faculty of Architecture, Planning, & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi Mara Perak Branch, Seri Iskandar Campus Perak, Malaysia
Published: September 2024

The evolution of ceramic tea sets continues to the present day. The integration of traditional Chinese cultural elements into the design of ceramic tea sets serves to enhance the aesthetic function of the design and expand the design elements, while also improving the cultural connotation of the tea set products. This study employs the theory of morphosemantics to examine the integration of traditional Chinese cultural elements into ceramic tea set design. It proposes a methodology for combining conventional cultural elements with modern design in novel ways, thereby facilitating the inheritance and innovation of cultural heritage. Guided by the theory of morphosemantics, this study presents a synthesis of the morphological principles, meanings, and design methods associated with traditional cultural elements in ceramic tea set design. It underscores the value of innovative design based on inheritance and advocates for the effective integration of cultural inheritance and modern design.
Current State of Animal Testing on Cosmetic Products in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore
Authors:   Particle Design Research Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), 42300 Bandar Puncak Alam, Selangor, Malaysia, Zulkifli Zulaila Aini , Naharudin Idanawati
Published: September 2024

The rapidly expanding segment within the cosmetics and personal care industry represents a convergence of personal care and pharmaceutical sectors. Traditionally, animal testing has been utilized to ensure the safety and efficacy of cosmetic products for human use. However, in response to consumer demands, many prominent brands have transitioned to being cruelty-free, gaining widespread acceptance. The official members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore, have implemented the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) as an agreement that aims to harmonize the regulations and standards for cosmetic products. However, the ACD does not provide specific legislation on animal testing. The directive defines cosmetics and specifies prohibited ingredients while allowing for permitted preservatives, UV filters, and colorants. This critical review focuses on the current state of animal testing for cosmetic products in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. The review was carried out with a reference to research works released between 2015 to 2022 by searching using an electronic database and involved referencing various articles. Its primary objective is to review the current state of animal testing on cosmetic products and the alternative methods used to ensure that cosmetic products are in regulatory compliance.
A Study of the Status and Perceptions of the Department of Educations’s Efforts to Increase the Employment of Teachers with Disabilities
Authors:   Korean Society of vocational Rehabilitation, Kim Rahkyung , Jang Seyoung , Im Heejin
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study is to analyze the number of teachers with disabilities, their types of disabilities, and their employment status by school level and subject in 17 cities over the past three years. A mixed-method approach was used, combining the analysis of employment status of teachers with disabilities with qualitative data from focus group interviews. The results showed that all 17 departments of education fell far short of the mandatory hiring rate of 3.6%, and the number of new teachers with disabilities has been declining over the past three years. Physical disability was the most common type of disability among incumbent teachers with disabilities (over half), followed by visual impairment, hearing impairment and hepatic impairment. Also, the highest proportion of teachers with disabilities were assigned to special schools. The Seoul department of education was the only one with an disability employment rate of more than 2%, while the Gyeongbuk, Jeonnam and Gangwon departments of education had very low rates. The main reasons for this were inconsistent selection rates of candidates in competitive examinations, lack of accommodations, and underrepresentation. Mid- to long-term plans, including follow-up research, and short-term solutions to the current situation were discussed.
Immunological parameters of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) with Flavobacterium psychrophilum gill infection
Authors: Schulz P. , Pajdak-Czaus J. , Kazuń K. , Kazuń B. , Duk K. , Siwicki A.K.
Published: September 2024

Flavobacterium psychrophilum, the etiological agent of bacterial coldwater disease and rainbow trout fry syndrome, causes great economic losses in salmonid aquaculture worldwide but the influence of this bacterium on non-specific immunity in fish and the development of disease is uncertain. In our studies rainbow trout were diagnosed with gill infections caused by the bacterium after experiencing mortality in one of the fish farm’s tanks. For 6 weeks, we assessed the immunity parameters in affected fish. The activity of lysozyme and ceruloplasmin, as well as the level of total protein and immunoglobulins in fish serum were measured. Also, spleen phagocyte respiratory burst and potential killing activity, as well as head kidney lymphocyte proliferation stimulated by concanavalin A or lipopolysaccharide were determined. Almost all tested immunological parameters except for ceruloplasmin activity were reduced compared to the control group. F. psychrophilum seems to have mechanisms that allow it to evade the fish’s immune system and suppress the basic non-specific humoral and cellular defense mechanisms of the infected fish.
Evaluation of the relationship between ACE2 G8790A and AT2R A1675G gene polymorphisms in COVID-19 patients with and without lung involvement
Authors: Akcilar Raziye , Kocak Fatma Emel , Kar Fatih , Isiklar Ozben Ozden , Atlanoglu Sahinde , Genc Ozlem , Yaman Fatima
Published: September 2024

Background

The SARS-CoV-2 virus produces severe acute respiratory syndrome. The severity of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection is determined by a number of factors, including inherited ones.

Objectives

Our goal is to investigate the link between ACE2 G8790A (rs2285666) and AT2R A1675G (rs14035430) gene polymorphisms in COVID-19 patients with and without lung involvement.

Methods

A total of 160 COVID-19 patients were divided into 2 groups based on their clinical symptoms: those without lung involvement (control group) and those with lung involvement (infected group). The ACE2 G8790A and AT2R A1675G gene polymorphisms were analyzed using the PCR-RFLP methods.

Results

The GG genotype, G allele of ACE2 G8790A, and GG genotype of AT2R A1675G were significantly higher in the control group and had a protective effect against COVID-19 as well as decreased the development of lung involvement (OR = 0.29, 95% CI = 0.10–0.84; OR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.22–0.72; and OR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.14–0.78, respectively). Moreover, we found that the AA genotype, A allele of ACE2 G8790A, and AG genotype of AT2R A1675G increased the risk of COVID-19 in the infected group (OR = 3.50, 95% CI = 1.18–10.3; OR = 2.49, 95% CI = 1.39–4.48; and OR = 3.08, 95% CI = 1.28–7.38, respectively).

Conclusions

These results revealed that a greater frequency of COVID-19 lung involvement in the Turkish population was connected with the AA genotype, the A allele of ACE2 G8790A, and the AG genotype of AT2R A1675G.
TPH1 inhibits bladder tumorigenesis by targeting HIF-1α pathway in bladder cancer
Authors: Ren Jianwei , Mo Zhiting , Deng Xia , Ren Minghui , Ren Hailong , Jin Jie , Zhang Huihui
Published: September 2024

Background

BCa is the most common cancer of the urinary system. TPH1 has been reported to be associated with distinct tumorigenesis. However, the role of TPH1 in BCa remains to be clarified.

Objectives

Our aim is to demonstrate the molecular mechanism of TPH1 in BCa carcinogenesis and development.

Methods

In research, we explored the effect of TPH1 on T24 cells. Colony formation, soft agar, and cell proliferation assays were used to determine the survival and proliferative capacity of cells. Moreover, TPH1−/− cell lines were analyzed using CRISP-CAS9, and the recovery experiment was conducted. Realtime fluorescence quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blot were used to detect HIF-1α mRNA levels and TPH1 protein.

Results

The TPH1 expression is lower in tumor tissues than in normal tissues. Colony formation, soft agar, and cell proliferation assays revealed that the overexpression of TPH1 declined cells survival. Moreover, the deficiency of TPH1 increased the number of clones. These results suggested that survival rate of TPH1 overexpression was repressed in cells. In addition, we found that HIF-1α activity was significantly downregulated with an increase in TPH1. The transcriptional activity of survivin was increased with TPH1−/− cells. Then, the proliferative ability of TPH1−/− cells was almost similar to the wild type levels with the treatment of LW6, TPH1 might play a major role to repress HIF-1α activity.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results suggested that increasing TPH1 activity could inhibit survival and proliferation of cells via HIF-1α pathway. TPH1 may be a potential target for human BCa therapy.
Predictive model for left main coronary artery or triple vessel disease in patients with chronic coronary syndromes
Authors: Nuchanat Piyanop , Methavigul Komsing
Published: September 2024

Background

Data about prediction of left main coronary artery disease (LMCAD)/three-vessel disease (TVD) in patients with chronic coronary syndromes (CCS) are lacking.

Objectives

This study aimed to develop a model for predicting patients at risk of LMCAD/TVD.

Methods

This study used retrospective data from patients with CCS scheduled for invasive coronary angiography (ICA) and who were retrospectively recruited between January 2018 and December 2020. Predictors were obtained and analyzed by using logistic regression analysis, and generated the prediction score. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated. The cut-off value and area under the curve (AUC) were analyzed by using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

We recruited 162 patients with CCS. There were 75 patients in the non-LMCAD/TVD and 87 patients in the LMCAD/TVD groups. After the multivariate analysis, new onset of heart failure (HF) or left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) and suspected CAD, ST elevation (STE) in aVR, STE in V1 and lateral ST depression (STD) were associated with increased risk of LMCAD/TVD. Based on these 4 predictors, the prediction score was created. The cut-off value of the prediction score by using ROC curve analysis was 3.0. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 71.26%, 86.67%, 86.11%, and 72.22%, respectively, with an AUC of 0.855.

Conclusions

The CCS patients with new onset of HF or LVSD and suspected CAD, STE in aVR, and STE in V1 and lateral STD were associated with increased risk of LMCAD/TVD. The novel prediction score could predict LMCAD/TVD in those patients with acceptable sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV.
The Importance of Green Real Estate Planning and Development
Authors: Assina Ayoob Khan Mohamed Hamid Ali , Srinivasan Nirmalkumar , Lapuke Sanda , Bode Ilmars
Published: September 2024

Green real estate (GRE) planning and development have become critical to achieving environmental sustainability and urban resilience. This paper explores the importance of incorporating eco-friendly techniques into real estate developments, with a focus on lowering carbon footprints, increasing energy efficiency, and encouraging sustainable land use. Regulatory rules, market demand, and technical breakthroughs are all key drivers of green development. The study emphasises the advantages of green buildings (GB), including better health outcomes, lower costs, and higher property values. By evaluating case studies and current research, this study emphasises the importance of stakeholders implementing sustainable practices to reduce environmental consequences and promote long-term economic growth. The findings call for a coordinated approach between governments, developers, and communities to ensure the success of green real estate programs.
Optimal Monetary Policy Framework in an Emerging Market Economy under Sanctions Pressure and Restrictions on Capital Flows
Authors: Kharitonchik Anatoly
Published: September 2024

The study evaluates the effectiveness of monetary policy regimes that can serve as the basis for economic policy strategies in emerging economies. Based on the macroeconomic gap model for Belarus, simulations of the strong shock impact on the economy using different monetary policy regimes have been implemented. The effects of capital flow restrictions on the stabilization capacity of monetary policy regimes have been examined. Given the existing sanctions and internal capital controls, the most preferable regime for Belarus is a flexible inflation targeting. In transforming the economy and political system towards the inclusivity of political and economic institutions, applying a flexible price-level targeting can be considered.
The Contribution of the BSC to Strategic Focus and Organisational Performance – Perception of the Mayor Export Companies in Portugal
Authors: Oliveira Cidália , Martins Nayra , Rodrigues Margarida
Published: September 2024

Objective

Managers recognise the ability of the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) to leverage strategic focus and organisational performance. In addition, the BSC is capable of addressing strategic focuses, aligning and monitoring strategic goals.

Considering the strategic focus and organisational performance, various studies have been carried out related to the BSC; however, few studies have delved into the knowledge and relevance recognised by organisations with and without the BSC. Considering the organisations that have implemented the BSC and those that have not, this research empirically demonstrates the real benefits of this tool.

Methodology

A quantitative approach was adopted, using a questionnaire drawn up on the basis of a literature review. The respondents were managers of companies that have implemented the BSC and managers of companies that have not implemented the BSC.

Results and Conclusions

This research shows that the characteristics and benefits of the BSC are confirmed by the managers of the main exporting organisations in Portugal, regardless of whether they have the BSC implemented or not. In companies that do not have the BSC in place, managers agree that if the BSC were implemented, it would support strategic focus and improve the monitoring of organisational performance.

Added Value

The contribution of this research is useful for both academics and professionals, as it highlights the relevance of the BSC with regard to strategic focus and performance management.

Recommendations: The BSC should be used to track strategic focus and organ-isational performance on a monthly basis
Multigraphs from crossword puzzle grid designs
Authors: Coté Ben , Merrill Leanne
Published: September 2024

Crossword puzzles lend themselves to mathematical inquiry. Several authors have already described the arrangement of crossword grids and associated combinatorics of answer numbers [Fer14] [Fer20] [McS16]. In this paper, we present a new graph-theoretic representation of crossword puzzle grid designs and describe the mathematical conditions placed on these graphs by well-known crossword construction conventions.
Mathematizing the Toxin Puzzle
Authors: Wapner Leonard M.
Published: September 2024

A mathematical model of Gregory Kavka’s “Toxin Puzzle” is constructed to provide the optimal course of action for this thought experiment. But the action suggested by the model is irrational, rendering the model useless for the rational player. Yet, it is the failure itself which provides a deeper insight into the nature of intention and mathematical modeling in general.
The formulation of a well-built research question
Authors: Santos Marilene , Galvão Márcia
Published: September 2024

The formulation of a research question and bibliographic search make it possible for health and academics professionals to get to the best scientific information available with efficiency and accuracy. PICO strategy (acronym for P: population/patients; I: intervention; C: control; O: outcome) is used to help to define what the research question should in fact specify. This article presents the main steps in the formulation of the research question and describes the PICO strategy.
Impact of Indoor Residual Spray (IRS) and Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) for sand flies (Diptera: Psychodidae) elimination in some remote communities
Authors: Austine Amaechi , John Iwunze , Francis Njoku , Murph Nwoke , Augusta Ebeh-Njoku , Atinuke Aderibigbe , Ifedayo Orimogunje
Published: September 2024

Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) and Indoor Residual sprays (IRS) in synergy have been an effective way to drive vector transmissions to low levels. A comparison-based survey for the field efficacy of (IRS+ITN) versus single interventions, IRS or ITN alone compared with control was conducted in the Mbaise Area of Imo State Nigeria. Sticky trap (ST) and Human bait (HB) techniques were used for sandflies collection. Results from the two techniques showed that after intervention, the lowest sandflies proportion were from households that intervened with combined measures (IRS+ITN) when compared with single intervention households (IRS) and (ITN) or control. The percentage reduction (%RI) at the sites that intervened with IRS+ITN as compared to either control site or single interventions was found to be the highest. The study strongly advocates the use of integration vector management for sand fly reduction and subsequent disease transmission especially in our rural areas.
Uji Coba Modul Yoga untuk Mengatasi Insomnia Tingkat Ringan-sedang pada Mahasiswa Kedokteran
Authors: Lilis Lilis , Kodrata Grace Angelica , Ayu Astri Parawita , Amita Angela Shinta Dewi
Published: September 2024

Pendahuluan: Insomnia adalah gangguan tidur yang paling umum terjadi. Gejalanya dapat berupa sulit untuk tertidur, sering terbangun pada malam hari dan tidak dapat tertidur kembali, bangun terlalu dini, atau bangun dengan kondisi kurang segar. Mahasiswa kedokteran merupakan salah satu kelompok yang rentan untuk memiliki insomnia. Kualitas tidur yang buruk dapat mengganggu kinerja kognitif dan motorik. Yoga dilaporkan dapat memberikan efek relaksasi sehingga dapat mengurangi gejala insomnia. Uji coba modul ini mengetahui pengaruh yoga terhadap insomnia tingkat ringan-sedang pada mahasiswa kedokteran.
Metode: Desain studi penelitian ini adalah kuasi-eksperimental. Total partisipan ada 16 orang yang memenuhi kriteria penelitian. Instrumen yang digunakan adalah kuesioner Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) untuk mengukur derajat insomnia dan 17 pertanyaan mengenai modul yoga. Intervensi latihan yoga dilakukan selama 8 minggu. Analisis data menggunakan uji normalitas Shapiro-Wilk dan uji paired t-test untuk mengetahui perubahan rerata skor ISI sebelum dan sesudah intervensi.
Hasil: Uji statistik menunjukkan adanya perbedaan yang signifikan antara rerata skor ISI pre-intervention dan post-intervention (p<0,001) pada kelompok studi. Modul yoga juga dapat diikuti dengan baik oleh partisipan.
Simpulan: Penelitian ini mengindikasikan bahwa latihan yoga berdasarkan modul yang telah disusun dapat mengurangi gejala insomnia pada mahasiswa kedokteran. Modul yoga juga dapat diikuti dengan baik oleh partisipan.
Penurunan Kadar Malondialdehid (MDA) pada Tikus Putih Jantan Hiperlipidemia oleh Pemberian Ekstrak Etanol Bajakah Tampala
Authors: Joneri Richie , Manalu Jojor Lamsihar , Dewi Rita , Arieselia Zita
Published: September 2024

Pendahuluan: Penyebab kematian tertinggi di Indonesia adalah stroke dan penyakit jantung koroner. Salah satu faktor risiko adalah hiperlipidemia. Hiperlipidemia berisiko menyebabkan aterosklerosis. Stres oksidatif telah terbukti berperan pada hiperlipidemia dan aterosklerosis. Salah satu biomarker untuk menentukan stres oksidatif adalah malondialdehid (MDA). Penggunaan antioksidan dapat mengurangi kerusakan yang diakibatkan oleh radikal bebas. Bajakah tampala adalah tanaman yang mengandung berbagai metabolit sekunder yaitu flavonoid, fenol, tanin, dan saponin. Metabolit sekunder tersebut berperan sebagai antioksidan dan memiliki efek hipolipidemik. Peneliti ingin mengetahui efektivitas dari ekstrak bajakah tampala dalam pengobatan penyakit hiperlipidemia.
Metode: Penelitian ini adalah studi eksperimental in vivo terhadap tikus dengan metode pre-test dan post-test. Sampel penelitian adalah 12 ekor tikus putih jantan Sprague-Dawley yang sehat dan tidak cacat berusia 8 minggu dengan berat badan ±200 gram. Tikus diinduksi hiperlipidemia selama 21 hari. Setelah itu, kelompok pertama diberikan ekstrak bajakah tampala dan kelompok kedua diberikan simvastatin selama 21 hari. Nilai absorbansi sampel campuran serum dengan reagen MDA assay kit pada panjang gelombang 450 nm, 532 nm, dan 600 nm diukur menggunakan metode spektrofotometri. Kadar MDA dihitung dengan rumus menggunakan nilai absorbansi tersebut. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan uji paired T-test.
Hasil: Hasil menunjukkan penurunan yang signifikan pada rerata kadar MDA tikus putih jantan hiperlipidemia yang diberikan ekstrak bajakah tampala (p<0,05). Tidak terdapat perbedaan rerata penurunan kadar MDA yang signifikan antara yang diberikan ekstrak bajakah tampala dengan simvastatin (p>0,05).
Kesimpulan: Pemberian ekstrak bajakah tampala terbukti efektif dalam menurunkan kadar MDA pada tikus putih jantan hiperlipidemia.
Kata Kunci: Bajakah tampala, malondialdehid, stres oksidatif, hiperlipidemia
Tratamentos para bruxismo do sono em crianças e adolescentes
Authors: Castro Thais Almeida , Morais Gleison Silva , Bedim Natiele Resende , Paula Cibelle Costa Colares de
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: Realizar um levantamento das intervenções mais comuns e dos resultados alcançados por cirurgiões-dentistas no tratamento de crianças e adolescentes diagnosticados com bruxismo do sono. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão bibliográfica com delineamento metodológico baseado no Método PRISMA, realizada nas bases de dados SciELO, PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane, Web of Science e Bibliografia Brasileira de Odontologia, com período de extração estabelecido entre 2012 e 2022.  Resultados: Foram estratificados 121 manuscritos que após passarem pelas etapas de identificação, triagem, elegibilidade e inclusão, resultaram em 13 estudos que apresentaram intervenções de cunho farmacológicos, ortodônticos, homeopáticos, psicológicos e fisioterapêuticos. Todas as pesquisas analisadas ressaltaram a importância de estabelecer um diagnóstico específico a partir da análise etiológica para definir uma abordagem adequada para a criança e o adolescente com bruxismo do sono. Conclusão: Considera-se que há diversas abordagens multidisciplinares e individualizas eficazes no tratamento do bruxismo do sono em crianças e adolescentes. Estas intervenções podem serem ministradas pelo cirurgião-dentista através da utilização de fármacos, aparelhos ortodônticos e tratamentos homeopáticos, assim como, podem ser utilizadas terapias psicológicas e fisioterapêuticas.
Desafíos y barreras para la apertura de datos de biodiversidad en Uruguay
Authors: Grattarola Florencia , Laufer Gabriel , Rodríguez-Tricot Lucía , González Enrique M. , Teixeira de Mello Franco
Published: September 2024

Los nuevos desafíos que plantea el cambio global tornan urgente contar con datos de calidad que permitan monitorear la biodiversidad y frenar su pérdida. Sin embargo, en la actualidad, el Estado Uruguayo y sus diferentes ministerios no disponibilizan datos primarios. Tampoco existe información abierta disponible sobre los ejemplares de las colecciones nacionales ni existen políticas institucionales transversales con relación al acceso a datos e información científica financiada con fondos públicos. Para contribuir a revertir este panorama, en 2018 surge Biodiversidata, el Consorcio de Datos de Biodiversidad del Uruguay. Pese a los avances alcanzados (e.g., publicar los primeros datos abiertos de biodiversidad para el país), el número de datos digitalizados es el más bajo de la región. ¿Por qué hay tan pocos datos abiertos de biodiversidad en Uruguay? Para reflexionar sobre este asunto, se desarrolló la mesa redonda Datos Abiertos de Biodiversidad en Uruguay. La pregunta trabajada fue: ¿cuáles son las dificultades o barreras que existen en el país para la disponibilización de datos abiertos? Para responderla, se hizo foco en las siguientes etapas de la generación de datos: a) obtención, y b) gestión y publicación. Identificamos que los principales obstáculos existentes en las primeras etapas del proceso son las trabas institucionales para obtener los datos (e.g., permisos de colecta), la falta de apoyo a las colecciones biológicas en el país y la ausencia de estándares comunes para la colecta de información. Por otro lado, en las etapas finales del proceso de generación de datos, los principales obstáculos son la falta de conocimiento sobre cómo gestionar y publicar datos abiertos, la falta de cultura de intercambio de datos y de incentivos para hacerlo. En este trabajo describimos estos obstáculos y ofrecemos propuestas para comenzar a superarlos.
Exploring the Effects of Extensional Versus Intensional Representations on Domain Understanding
Authors: Samuel Binny M. , Khatri Vijay , Ramesh V.
Published: September 2024

Cognitive research suggests that understanding the semantics, or the meaning, of representations involves both ascension from concrete concepts denoting specific observations (that is, extension) to abstract concepts denoting a number of observations (that is, intension), and vice versa. Consonantly, extant conceptual schemas can encode the semantics of a domain intensionally (e.g., ER diagram, UML class diagram) or extensionally (e.g., set diagram, UML object diagram). However, prior IS research has exclusively focused on intensional representations and the role they play in aiding domain understanding. In this research, we compare the interpretational fidelity of two types of representational encoding of cardinality constraints, an intensional schema using an ER diagram and its extensional analog using a set diagram. We employ cognitive science research to conceptualize that extensional representations will enable enhanced understanding as compared with intensional representations. Further, given that prior research suggests that the semantics of cardinality constraints remain challenging to understand, we focus on mandatory and optional cardinality constraints associated with relationships in these representations. Based on our laboratory experiments, we find that understanding with an extensional representation was (1) at least as good as that with an intensional representation for mandatory cardinality constraints and (2) significantly better for optional cardinality constraints. We also conducted an applicability check of our results via focus groups and found support for the perceived significance of extensional representations in practice. Overall, this research suggests that the tradition in IS research of exclusively focusing on intensional encoding of domain semantics should be reexamined.
IT Consumerization and the Transformation of IT Governance
Authors: Gregory Robert Wayne , Kaganer Evgeny , Henfridsson Ola , Ruch Thierry Jean
Published: September 2024

IT governance describes the decision rights and accountability framework used to ensure the alignment of IT-related activities with the organization’s strategy and objectives. Conversely, IT consumerization refers to the process whereby the changing practices and expectations of consumers influence the IT-related activities of workers and managers in organizations. We propose that IT consumerization not only challenges the foundations of IT governance but ultimately also transforms it. To explore this research problem, we utilize the punctuated equilibrium theory and a case study of IT consumerization and the transformation of IT governance in a large global bank. Our findings suggest that the widespread adoption of digital technology in everyday life leads to “everyone’s IT,” which is a new set of shared beliefs among consumers that highlights democratized access and individualized use of IT. As everyone’s IT beliefs begin to alter the IT-related activities of workers, the result is IT governance misalignments that ultimately lead to a punctuated transformation of IT governance that dismantles functional IT governance. The establishment of platform-based governance marks a new equilibrium period. Our mid-range theory contributes to the IS domain with the novel concept of everyone’s IT and a grounded explanation of IT governance transformation in the context of IT consumerization. Our theory offers a set of significant research and practical implications.
Were Mammoths Brought by Mudflows?
Authors: Сергин В.Я.
Published: September 2024

На ряде поселений конца верхнего палеолита Восточной Европы встречено большое количество костей мамонта. В статье рассмотрена гипотеза, согласно которой скопления возникали в результате гибели животных от селей и плывунных потоков, а человек находил и использовал их. В настоящее время в условиях, характерных для этих памятников, такие опасные явления не возникают. Нет оснований предполагать их проявление в прошлом. Стратиграфия памятников и состояние костей мамонта на них (отсутствие частей скелета, состав, сходная сохранность) свидетельствуют о накоплении костей в результате деятельности человека.

Some Upper Palaeolithic sites in Eastern Europe have revealed a large number of mammoth bones. The paper explores the hypothesis which states that accumulations of these animals occurred because of their death caused by mudflows whereas people found and used them. Dangerous mudflows do not occur in the conditions typical for these sites today. Nothing suggests that there were mudflows in the past. Stratigraphy of the sites and conditions of the mammoth bones at the sites (some parts of the skeleton missing, similar state of preservation) demonstrate that the bones were accumulated in the course of human activity.
CULT AND MEMORIAL COMPLEXES OF THE SCYTHIAN TIME ON THE MIDDLE DON
Authors: Володин С.А.
Published: September 2024

Погребальные памятники скифской эпохи (V–IV вв. до н. э.) на территории Среднего Дона представляют собой в большинстве случаев захоронения под курганными насыпями. На данный момент изучено частично и целиком 10 некрополей. В трех из них, а именно в могильниках Терновое – Колбино, Мастюгино и Староживотинное, были зафиксированы «пустые курганы». Исследователи по-разному трактовали эти комплексы: как кенотафы, святилища или остатки кремаций. В данной работе предлагается интерпретация среднедонских курганов без захоронений скифского времени как культово-поминальных комплексов, тесно связанных с огненными ритуалами. Практика сооружения комплексов подобного назначения была широко распространена на территории скифо-сибирского мира, наибольшие же аналогии среднедонским культово-поминальным комплексам обнаруживаются на территории Днепровской лесостепи.

Burial sites of the Scythian time (V–IV centuries BC) in the Middle Don region are mostly represented by burials deposited under kurgan mounds. At the moment, 10 cemeteries have been investigated partially entirely. In three of them, namely, the cemeteries of Ternovoe-Kolbino, Mastyugino and Starozhivotinnoe, so-called “empty kurgans” were recorded. The researchers interpreted the associations in question differently: as cenotaphs, sanctuaries or remains of cremated burials. This paper suggests an interpretation of the Middle Don kurgans of Scythian time without burials as a cult and memorial complexes, closely associated with fire rituals. The practice of constructing complexes of similar purpose was widespread in the Scythian-Siberian world, the closest analogies to the Middle Don cult and memorial complexes are known in the territory of the Dnieper forest-steppe
DISTURBANCES OF SCYTHIAN GRAVES DURING THE ARCHAIC PERIOD (PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS)
Authors: Кузнецова Т.М.
Published: September 2024

Раскопки скифских курганов в Северном Причерноморье показывают, что большинство захоронений в них было нарушено. Это явление не без основания связывается с различными этапами ограбления скифских гробниц. Однако при сопоставлении погребальных комплексов, расположенных на правом берегу р. Днепр, удалось сделать некоторые наблюдения по поводу нарушений «скифских» памятников, возможно связанных не только с ограблениями. Рассматривались четыре близкие по конструкции могилы в курганах: «Репяховатая Могила» (гробницы № 1 и 2), «Червона Могила» (гробница № 2) и № 407 у с. Журовка (Журавка). Эти памятники объединяются сходными по форме железными навершиями и другими категориями сопроводительного инвентаря. Нарушенными в представленных памятниках оказались лишь мужские (скифские) захоронения, тогда как женские и детские останки потревожены не были. Предварительная оценка характера нарушений позволяет предположить возможность негативного отношения местного населения Правобережной лесостепи к пришедшим в этот регион скифам. Разрушение рассмотренных памятников трудно связать с ограблениями ради наживы, так как, судя по сохранившемуся вещевому комплексу, они не были наполнены драгоценными металлами.

The excavations of Scythian kurgans in the North Pontic area demonstrate that most graves were disturbed. Not without good reason, this phenomenon is linked to looting of the Scythian tombs at different stages. However, comparison of funerary assemblages located on the right bank of the Dnieper helped make some observations about disturbances of «Scythian» sites, possibly, related to processes other than lootings. The paper reports on four graves with similar construction in the following kurgans: Repyakhovataya Mogila (graves No. 1 and 2), Chervonaya Mogila (grave No. 2) and No. 407 near the village of Zhurovka (Zhuravka). These sites exhibit similarities such as iron terminals of similar shape and presence of other categories of grave goods. Only male Scythian graves were found looted while female and children graves were not disturbed. Preliminary assessment of the nature of disturbances suggests possible negative attitude of the local population inhabiting the forest-steppe on the right bank of the Dnieper towards the Scythians who arrived in this region. It is difficult to link disturbances of the sites excavated to looting for the sake of profit because, as suggested by preserved funerary offerings, the graves did not contain items made of precious stones.
Excavations on the Southwest Slope of the Markula Hilfort
Authors: Требелева Г.В. , Хондзия З.Г. , Шведчикова Т.Ю. , Юрков Г.Ю.
Published: September 2024

Важным открытием 2016 г. стало обнаружение in situ стены у подножия склона холма с городищем с юго-западной стороны. В том же году было начато исследование этого склона. В ходе шурфовки было обнаружено женское погребение IV в. н. э., сопровождавшееся инвентарем, в том числе бусинами из пасты, а также слой с чернолаковой керамикой. Раскопки 2017 г. подтвердили наличие эллинистического слоя.

The find of a wall in situ at the foot of the hill slope with a hillfort on the southwestern part was an important discovery made in 2016. Examination of the slope was launched in the same year. The test boring discovered a female grave of the 4th century as well as a layer with black-glazed ceramics. The 2017 excavations confirmed presence of a Hellenistic layer at the site.