bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical observation of the manifestation of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria with a complication in the form of thrombosis in a teenager
Authors: Lyubimova E. G. , Dzhumaitov A. A. , Antonova A. A. , Davydova O. V. , Abdurakhimova P. M.
Published: November 2024

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria in children is an acquired orphan disease that has not yet been sufficiently studied. Diagnostic errors with delayed diagnosis of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria are common, due to the diversity of the clinical picture and insufficient awareness of doctors about this rare disease. Using the example of a clinical case of a patient with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria to show the features of the manifestation and course of this disease. A 14-year-old patient, due to anemia, was hospitalized in the oncology department of the Regional Children’s Clinical Hospital named after N.N. Silishcheva (Astrakhan). During the examination, the diagnosis was made: severe iron deficiency anemia. Copious menstruation of the puberty period. Microhematuria and leukocyturia were noted in the urine analysis. Systemic connective tissue diseases and oncological pathology were excluded. Studies have been performed to diagnose autoimmune diseases. Survey results. As the patient was monitored, the diagnostic and therapeutic concepts changed. Given the presence of anemia, moderate hyperbilirubinemia, negative Coombs test and microhematuria, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria is suspected. During cytofluorometry, an APG clone was detected – determined on erythrocytes (12.49%), granulocytes (93.7%) and monocytes (91.1%); ADAMTS13 91%, which confirmed the diagnosis of Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria. Classical paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria in the practice of a pediatrician is extremely rare, the use of routine research methods leads to improper treatment and the development of complications. Timely specific diagnostics and therapy provided positive dynamics of clinical and laboratory symptoms of the disease and a favorable prognosis for health.
Features of the composition of the intestinal microbiota in obese children, depending on the presence or absence of metabolic complications
Authors: Skvortsova O. V. , Migacheva N. B. , Lyamin A. V. , Mikhailova E. G. , Kaiumov K. A. , Alekseev D. V.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Childhood obesity is one of the most pressing problems in modern pediatrics. The serious attention of specialists is attracted by numerous reports on changes in the composition of the intestinal microbiota (IM) in obese patients.

Аim. Тo find the relationship between the metabolic complications of obesity in children and the diversity of IM.

Materials and methods. A single-stage prospective controlled study was conducted, which included 133 children with exogenous constitutional obesity and 23 healthy children of the control group. All children underwent an examination aimed at diagnosing metabolic complications of obesity. An additional research method was the assessment of the microbiome of the luminal contents of the large intestine with the identification of microorganisms by MALDI-ToF mass spectrometry.

Results. The study revealed a high incidence of metabolic complications of obesity in the examined patients: arterial hypertension (AH, 22.7%), impaired carbohydrate metabolism or type 2 diabetes mellitus (25.1%), dyslipidemia (25.6%), impaired purine metabolism (46.4%) and metabolically associated fatty liver disease (49.3%). When assessing the microbiological profile, a decrease in the frequency of excretion of bifidobacteria and streptococci in patients with hypertension was revealed, and the relationship of individual microorganisms with some complications of obesity was also found.

Discussion. According to the literature, the frequency of excretion of bifidobacteria in obese patients is reduced, as in our case. This can be considered as a potential therapeutic target for the correction of metabolic disorders. The issue of reducing the diversity of IM in patients with hypertension is also being discussed in the scientific community, which this study also shows, proving the relationship of changes in IM with complications of obesity. It turned out to be interesting that certain bacteria associated with colorectal cancer were isolated from obese patients, which requires further study of the issue, given the higher prevalence of oncopathology in this group of patients.

Conclusions. The results of the study demonstrate a high incidence of metabolic complications of obesity in children, as well as their relationship with IM, which dictates the need for further study of this area and the search for possible ways to influence IM in order to influence metabolic disorders in obese patients.
Asymptomatic nasopharingeal carrying of Streptococcus pneumoniae in preschool children
Authors: Makhkamova G. T. , Shamansurova E. A. , Turdieva Sh. T.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Despite the availability of modern, effective antibiotics and vaccines, up to 825 000 children under five years of age worldwide suffer from severe pneumococcal infection every year.

Aim. To study the prevalence and manifestation of asymptomatic carriage of St. pneumoniae in unvaccinated preschool children.

Materials and methods. The study design was a prospective cohort study that began before the inclusion of pneumococcal vaccination in the National Preventive Vaccination Calendar of Uzbekistan (2015). The microbiota of the nasopharynx was studied in 236 practically healthy children, of which children attending preschool, from 3 to 5 years old – 143 (60.6%), unorganized children from 1.5 to 3 years old – 93 (39.4%). According to standard methods, a bacteriological analysis (bacterial culture) was carried out to detect St. pneumoniae in a nasopharynx smear.

Results and discussion. Asymptomatic nasopharyngeal carriage of St. pneumoniae was detected in 40.7% of those observed, which was higher than the detection rate of H. influenzae – 22.0% (52/236), as well as Moraxella catarrhalis – 13.6% (32/236), and in children attending kindergartens, the detection rate was two times higher (50.4% versus 25.8%), compared to unorganized children. According to two-year observations, a more aggressive effect of pathogens was noted in young children (unorganized children). Repeated episodes of pneumonia were noted in 29.2%, which is 5.2 times more than in children from the second age group (5.6%). The data obtained indicate a high incidence of children under three years of age with St. pneumoniae carriage.

Conclusion. Among unvaccinated children under five years of age, asymptomatic nasopharyngeal carriage of St. pneumoniae was 40.7%, and the transition of asymptomatic carriage to invasive respiratory diseases reached 97.9%, which indicates the need for family doctors to organize and conduct effective vaccination of children before their admission to preschool institutions.
Role of angiotensinogen gene polymorphisms (AGT: с. 174C>T and AGT: с. 235T>С) in children with obesity and cardiometabolic disorders
Authors: Evdokimova N. V. , Novikova V. P. , Nakhimov T. A. , Nakhimova U. A. , Buntovskaya A. S. , Trandina A. E. , Gavriusheva O. A. , Glushakov R. I.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Obesity is a multifactorial disease that arises through the joint actions of multiple genetic and environmental factors. Identification of genetic markers of obesity, including their polymorphisms, especially in children of early and preschool age is an important field of diagnosis and prevention of the disease.

Aim. To study the prevalence of single-nucleotide polymorphisms of the gene (AGT: с.174C>T, p.T174M (rs4762) and AGT: с.235T>С, p.M235T (rs699)) in children with obesity.

Materials and methods. A total of 180 children aged 5–17 years were examined in a clinical case-control study. The case group included 120 obese subjects, of whom 60 were aged 5–10 years old and 60 were aged 11–17 years old. The control group included 60 subjects with normal body weight, of whom 30 were aged 5–10 years old and 30 were aged 11–17 years old. The subjects underwent measurement of physical development, carbohydrate metabolism, and lipid status, as well as daily blood pressure monitoring, and molecular genetic testing, in particular, gene polymorphisms (AGT: p.174C>T, p.T174M (rs4762) and AGT: p.235T>C, p.M235T (rs699)). Odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to assess the impact of polymorphisms on the development of obesity and obesity-associated conditions. 

Results. No association was established between the AGT gene polymorphism: c.174C>T and obesity and dyslipidemia in children aged 5–17 years old. We found an association between the AGT gene polymorphism c.235T>C and obesity and dyslipidemia in children aged 5–17 years old (OR 3.1 [0.1; 3.9], p = 0.000001; OR 1.6 [0.9; 3.3], p = 0011). An association between both polymorphisms and the development of arterial hypertension (AH) in children and adolescents with obesity (OR 1.2 [0.4; 2.7], p = 0.000025; OR 2.2 [0.5; 2.4], p = 0.00002) was established.

Discussion. Numerous works performed by foreign authors demonstrated the association between the AGT gene polymorphism: p.235T>C and the development of obesity and related comorbid conditions in adults. There is no information on the effect of the AGT polymorphism: p.174C>T.

Conclusion. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) gene polymorphisms contribute to the development of obesity, dyslipidemia and hypertension in childhood.
Acute cough in young children in the practice of a primary care pediatrician
Authors: Safina A. I.
Published: November 2024

Acute cough in children is a very common problem, especially in young children. Approximately 4.7 to 23.3% of all causes for visiting primary care physicians and up to 60% of all consultations are related to cough in children. Cough is more common in preschool children than in older children. Acute respiratory viral infections/acute bronchitis is the most common cause of acute cough in children. About 75% of children aged 0 to 4 years with acute respiratory infections have a cough. The therapeutic approach of a primary care paediatrician is to assess the symptoms of the disease causing the cough. Infections that can cause complications, such as pneumonia, should be excluded. In most children with acute cough, the etiology is associated with an acute respiratory viral infection and only requires symptomatic therapy (antipyretics, fluid regimen, and nasal irrigation with saline solutions). Over-the-counter cough suppressants have shown to be ineffective in treating acute cough and can cause side effects, so they should be prescribed with caution in children under 2 years of age. Herbal medicines in paediatrics are agents of great interest today. They have proven efficacy and safety in the treatment of acute cough, for example, Hedera helix L.-based preparations (ivy leaf extract). The 2015 Cochrane review of 71 randomized clinical trials on herbal medicines (pelargonium, echinacea, ivy, thyme, primrose, essential oils, andrographis paniculata, etc.) used for the treatment of cough in children with colds, demonstrated substantial evidence of the effectiveness of ivy-based preparations in reducing the frequency and severity of cough symptoms (OR 1.40, CI 95% 1.23–1.60; p < 0.00001).
Predictors of Malignant Lymph Node Involvement in paediatric patients: Analysis of 217 Cases
Authors: Polev G. A. , Oganesyan R. S. , Yaremenko E. Yu. , Grachev N. S.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Diagnosing cervical lymphadenopathy in children with a history of oncological or immunopathological conditions is challenging, often resulting in overtreatment. This study analyses ultrasound-based differential diagnostics for lymphadenopathy in this patient group.

Aim. To improve diagnostic accuracy for cervical lymphadenopathy in children with a history of oncological or immunopathological conditions.

Materials and methods. A retrospective analysis was performed on clinical and demographic data from 217 paediatric patients diagnosed with cervical lymphadenopathy. These patients underwent excisional lymph node biopsy and/or lymphadenectomy between December 2017 and December 2022. The cohort was divided into Group A (benign lymphadenopathy; n = 92) and Group B (malignant lymphadenopathy; n = 125).

Results. Significant predictors of malignant lymphadenopathy were identified, including “Lymph Node Configuration Index ≤ 2” (increasing the odds by 4.4–5.1 times), “Short Axis of Lymph Node > 10 mm” (OR 2.5–2.8), “Specific Therapy Prior to Lymph Node Removal” (OR 6.9–7.2), “Absence of Lymph Node Differentiation” (OR 2.2–2.4), “Presence of Intranodal Microcalcifications” (OR 14.1–16.3), “Increased Vascularisation of the Lymph Node” (OR 2.0–2.6), “Overall Hypoechogenicity” (OR 2.4), and “Formation of Conglomerates” (OR 3.6). Predictive models integrating these factors demonstrated strong accuracy, with an informational capacity of 81.1% (p < 0.001), sensitivity between 79.3% and 82.6%, and specificity from 80.0% to 82.4%.

Discussion. The comprehensive analysis of predictive factors for malignant lymphadenopathy in patients with a history of oncological or immunopathological diseases suggests that no single ultrasound risk factor should be the sole basis for differential diagnosis, supporting earlier findings.

Conclusion. The predictive models provide a standardised, robust approach for assessing malignant lymph node involvement, improving diagnostic accuracy in paediatric patients with oncological or immunopathological histories.
Acute rhinosinusitis in children in outpatient practice: The possibilities of rational therapy and prevention of complications
Authors: Kirichenko I. M. , Popadyuk V. I. , Kozlova N. S. , Chernolev A. I.
Published: November 2024

In outpatient practice, both pediatrician and otorhinolaryngologist, acute rhinosinusitis is the most common infectious disease of the upper respiratory tract. The formation of sinusitis against the background of acute respiratory viral infection (colds) in children is facilitated by the unjustified administration of antibiotics, decreased immunity, allergies, changes in the structure of the nose and paranasal sinuses, metabolic disorders, beriberi, chronic diseases, adverse environmental factors. The administration of systemic antibiotics for viral infections of the upper respiratory tract leads to a violation of the immune response of the mucous membranes and does not prevent the development of bacterial complications. Mucociliary transport is the main mechanism for cleaning the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses from mucus and pathogens, preventing the development of inflammation. Violation of mucociliary transport against the background of viral infections leads to the development of acute sinusitis, which can be complicated by acute otitis media, eustachiitis, adenoiditis. Sometimes intracranial and orbital complications develop. The article presents a clinical case of a 12-year-old patient with complaints of difficulty in nasal breathing, mucopurulent nasal discharge, discharge from the back of the throat, unproductive cough, especially disturbing at night, periodic facial pain on the right, pain and congestion in the right ear. An endoscopic examination of the nose, nasopharynx and ear, as well as a computed tomography scan were performed. When prescribing complex treatment, including a combined mucolytic drug, a complete recovery was achieved on the 7th day of treatment. The use of the topical mucolytic drug (acetylcysteine, tuaminoheptane) in children improves the rheology of discharge from the nose and paranasal sinuses and prevents the development of complications of acute rhinosinusitis.
Treatment of prolonged cough in children – choice of combination therapy
Authors: Kasanave E. V. , Geppe N. A. , Khachatryan L. G. , Aseeva E. V. , Ozerskaia I. V.
Published: November 2024

Cough is one of the most common symptoms in pediatric practice. It can manifest itself in children as a mild cough, which has almost no effect on the general condition and behavior, or, on the contrary, have a severe and debilitating character, disrupting sleep and worsening the child’s quality of life. Cough is a multifunctional problem caused by a variety of causes, which creates certain difficulties in diagnosis, especially in case of prolonged (subacute) and chronic cough, and in choosing the appropriate treatment. It can be associated with various diseases, which requires a careful approach from the doctor and selection of adequate therapy taking into account the causes of cough, response to treatment, patient’s age and other indicators. This article discusses the etiology, as well as diagnosis and treatment of respiratory pathology in children, where the main symptom is a prolonged cough. The advantages of mucoactive therapy of subacute cough using a combination drug containing salbutamol, guaifenesin and bromhexine in pediatric practice are considered.
The effect of liraglutide therapy on body weight and carbohydrate metabolism and lipid profile in obese children
Authors: Sharshova O. G. , Chubarov T. V. , Peterkova V. A. , Zhdanova O. A.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. The analogue of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), liraglutide, has been shown to be effective in reducing body weight. Its effect on lipid and carbohydrate metabolism is still being studied.

Aim. To assess the dynamics of body weight, carbohydrate metabolism and lipid profile in obese children using liraglutide.

Materials and methods. A single-center, prospective study was conducted to evaluate the use of liraglutide in children aged 12 to 18 years with constitutional exogenous obesity over a period of 12 months. The decrease in body weight, the standard deviation of the body mass index (SDS BMI) and the dynamics of laboratory parameters (glucose, insulin, lipid profile) were evaluated. Results. A decrease in SDS BMI by 0.25 or more was noted in 23 children (71.8%, group 1). Weight loss in group 1 patients was observed from 1 to 8 months of therapy. In group 1 patients, there was a significant decrease in glucose values from 5.0 ± 0.4 to 4.6 ± 0.5 mmol/l (p < 0.0001), fasting insulin from 13.0 ± 7.6 to 8.3 ± 5.7 mMU/l (p = 0.004), HOMA-IR insulin resistance index from 3.4 ± 2.0 to 1.9 ± 1.5 (p = 0.0008). In group 2 patients, who did not experience weight loss, there was a significant reduction in serum cholesterol levels from 4.4 ± 0.8 mmol/l to 3.3 ± 1.6 mmol/l (p = 0.02) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels from 2.1 ± 0.6 mmol/l to 1.7 ± 0.6 mmol/l (p = 0.014).

Discussion. In our study, as in previous studies, there was no effect of gender, age, and degree of obesity on the effectiveness of treatment. The obtained significant changes in carbohydrate metabolism and lipid profile in obese children after liraglutide therapy had not been previously observed.

Conclusions. In the group of children who did not lose body weight, there was an improvement in lipid metabolism, which requires an additional assessment of the effect of GPP-1 agonists on metabolism. More research is needed to identify factors that affect the effectiveness of liraglutide treatment.
Features of the transition of newborn children with pathology from tube feeding to breastfeeding
Authors: Aksenov D. V. , Zakharova N. I. , Lavrentev S. N. , Goryunova A. D. , Ryumina I. I.
Published: November 2024

Introduction. Successful breastfeeding is possible if the child has a mature sucking reflex and coordination of sucking, swallowing and breathing. Violation of these coordinated functions can lead to a high risk of apnea, bradycardia, and aspiration.

Аim. To determine the factors influencing the transition from probe feeding to bottle feeding and breastfeeding in newborns. The study included 30 newborns of different gestational age and body weight.

Material and methods. To assess the activity of sucking, the Oral Feeding Scale was also used, proposed for premature infants, and reflecting the functional features of sucking, swallowing and breathing of sick newborns.

Results and discussion. The transition from tube feeding to bottle feeding with a nipple and the time required for successful transition to breastfeeding was longest in 5 children of gestational age (GA) 28–30 weeks, with perinatal hypoxic-ischemic CNS damage and infectious diseases, The second maturity level (PRO < 30% and RT ≥ 1.5 ml/min) was detected in 3 children aged 31–32 weeks with a similar combined pathology. The third maturity level (PRO ≥30% and RT <1.5 ml/min) was established in 3 children with combined perinatal pathology at GW 33–34 weeks. The most mature level of sucking is in full-term newborns and late preterm infants from 35 weeks of GA with PRO ≥ 30% and RT ≥ 1.5 ml/min.

Conclusion. The study of the rate of sucking and the proportion of nutrition sucked in 5 minutes, the total amount of absorbed nutrition and the number of days from the beginning to complete self-feeding are effective criteria for the transfer of sick newborns from probe feeding to breastfeeding, including those with neurological disorders, which allowed 83% of sick children to be transferred for breastfeeding.
A perspectiva de Retorno dos Alunos de uma Universidade Pública às Aulas Presenciais no Pós Pandemia
Authors: Peinado Jurandir , Vianna Fernando Ressetti Pinheiro Marques , Meneghetti Francis Kanashiro
Published: November 2024

O estudo analisa as percepções dos alunos sobre o retorno às aulas presenciais no pós pandemia. Os dados foram produzidos por meio da aplicação de um questionário online a estudantes de uma Universidade Pública, e contou com 3.236 respostas submetidas a procedimentos estatísticos. Resultados apontaram que os alunos não consideram as vantagens do ensino remoto mais relevantes que os ganhos decorrentes do ensino presencial, e grupos de alunos que contraíram covid-19 são mais temerosos ao retorno do ensino presencial.
Políticas de Avaliação e Regulação da Educação Superior para as IES estaduais:
Authors: Brandalise Mary Ângela Teixeira Angela Teixeira , Borges Regilson Maciel , Oliveira Maria Eliza Nogueira Oliveira Nogueira , Silva Nadja Fonsêca da
Published: November 2024

Resumo: Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar o processo de normatização das políticas de avaliação e regulação da educação superior das IES no âmbito dos Conselhos Estaduais de Educação (CEE), em interface com a política nacional de avaliação da educação superior definida pelo SINAES. A pesquisa, de abordagem qualitativa do tipo estudo de casos múltiplos, aborda por meio da análise documental, como os CEE traduzem e recontextualizam a  política de avaliação e regulação da educação superior para as IES a eles jurisdicionadas. Embora  atendam o SINAES, a trajetória e composição dos CEE pesquisados apresentam características distintas, revelando ações próprias em seus processos avaliativos e regulatórios no âmbito  da educação superior estadual.
供水管网系统提升与漏损控制
Authors: Hamilton Stuart , Charalambous Bambos , Wyeth Gary
Published: November 2024

管理供水管网漏损并提升供水系统性能 是全球多数水司面临的重大挑战。有时，这些水司可能设定了过于宏伟的目标，而当这些“不切实际”的目标未能达成 时，往往会被视为失败。然而，这种“失 败”实际上是一种对预期成果的过度期 望，而非真正的失败。

本书旨在协助水司明确其在“漏失阶梯” 中的位置，并识别迈向下一阶段所需的 关键条件。本书将向您展示水司在降低 漏损过程中应追求的具体目标，以及需 要达成的关键指标。书中不仅提供了有 关无收益水量问题的深入分析和解决方 案，还包含了丰富的实践案例研究。

The English edition of this book is on our website here: https://iwaponline.com/ebooks/book/819/Improving-Water-Supply-Networks-Fit-for-Purpose

ISBN: 9781789064995 (eBook)
ANALISIS PERAN BADAN USAHA MILIK DESA (BUM DESA) REJEKI BAROKAH SEBAGAI UPAYA PEMBERDAYAAN MASYARAKAT DAN PEMBANGUNAN EKONOMI DESA SUMBERGONDO KECAMATAN BUMIAJI KOTA BATU
Authors: Amordiaz Elmico Duta , Maryunani
Published: November 2024

Village-Owned Enterprises (BUM Desa) are village autonomous institutions managed by the community and village government to empower the community and strengthen the village economy. BUM Desa Rejeki Barokah is an institution in the village social and economic sector as a provider of village community services in the form of waste management and educational tourism in Sumbergondo Village, Bumiaji District, Batu City. The aim of this research is to determine the role of BUM Desa in improving the economy and empowering its community. The method used in the research is descriptive qualitative. Data collection through interviews with key informants and research informants, as well as through documentation of the results of Village BUM management. This research shows that the existence of BUM Desa improves the Village economy in the form of getting jobs as well as increasing the income of the people who are workers in each business unit and who are suppliers of raw materials in the business unit as well as the people who are customers in the Waste Bank business unit. Apart from that, the existence of BUM Desa is aimed at empowering village communities in the form of village communities being involved from establishment, implementation to reporting. Apart from that, BUM Desa collaborates with businesses and MSMEs owned by the community.
PENGARUH IKLAN/AKTIF SOSIAL MEDIA, WORD OF MOUTH, DAN PELAYANAN TERHADAP KEPUTUSAN MUZAKKI DALAM MEMBAYAR ZAKAT (STUDI KASUS LEMBAGA AMIL ZAKAT SAHABAT MUSTAHIQ KOTA KEDIRI)
Authors: Ardiansyah Febrico Candra , Muttaqin Aminnullah Achmad
Published: November 2024

The collection of zakat in Indonesia has significantly increased from 2020 to 2022, but it has not yet met the expected targets. This study identifies the factors influencing muzakki decisions in paying zakat at the Amil Zakat Institution (LAZ) Sahabat Mustahiq in Kediri City, namely advertising, social media activities, word of mouth, and service. This research uses a quantitative approach with explanatory research. Primary data was collected from 112 active muzakki respondents selected randomly and analyzed using multiple linear regression methods with the help of SPSS. The findings show that advertising, social media activities, word of mouth, and service significantly influence muzakki decisions in paying zakat. The conclusion of this study highlights the importance of communication strategies and service quality in maximizing zakat potential. The implication of this research is that increasing public awareness about zakat and its management can support government programs in reducing poverty. This study contributes to understanding muzakki behavior and can be used as a reference for LAZ in optimizing zakat collection through effective marketing strategies.
 
            Kata Kunci : Keputusan Muzakki; Zakat; Iklan; Media Sosial; Word of Mouth; Pelayanan
DETERMINAN KEPUTUSAN GENERASI Z DALAM MELAKUKAN PEMBAYARAN ZIS MELALUI DIGITAL PLATFORM
Authors: Nurul Aini  , Paksi Girindra
Published: November 2024

This study aims to analyze the influence of perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, zakah literacy, and income on generation z's decision to make digital payments for Zakah, Infaq, and Sedekah (ZIS). The research method employed in this study is quantitative primary data with 412 respondents representing generation z in Indonesia. The model used in this research employs logistic regression analysis for data processing and analysis. The results indicate that only two factors play a significant role: perceived ease of use and zakah literacy as determinants influencing generation z's decision toward digital ZIS payment services in Indonesia. This research underscores the importance of perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, zakah literacy, and income in influencing generation z's decisions regarding digital ZIS payments. The findings of this study are expected to enhance institutions' strategies for optimizing ZIS collection and improving generation z's perception of digital ZIS payments.
ANALYSING NEIGHBOURHOOD SAFETY FOR CHILDREN IN SHAH ALAM, MALAYSIA USING FUZZY-AHP AND GIS
Authors: Alias Elina , Naharudin Nabilah , Mohd Yusoff Zaharah , A. Rahaman Lutfi
Published: November 2024

Children could be vulnerable to being victims of kidnapping cases due to their cognitive level in perceiving safety. Until September 2023, 4,471 missing persons were reported all around Malaysia. As there is a growing concern regarding children’s safety, this study was conducted throughout the Shah Alam region as it is one of the biggest cities in Selangor, which has several factors contributing to kidnapping cases towards children. However, does every section in Shah Alam have a high level of safety and is suitable for children? Geographic Information System (GIS) and Fuzzy-Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) are used as the main processes in decision-making when identifying the Neighbourhood Safety for Children in Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia. Based on previous studies, five (5) main criteria were selected, i.e., Perceived Safety, Transportation Accessibility, Land-Use, Public Facilities and Population Density. They were represented on the ground using the sub-criteria. Spatial data was collected, and 15 criterion maps were established, undergoing editing, rasterisation and reclassification. A pairwise comparison matrix was created to determine the weightage of these criteria, and Weighted Overlay Analysis was used to identify the safety level for each section. The results showed moderate neighbourhood safety (index level 5 or 6) for children in Shah Alam, with southern and western areas having worse safety levels (index value 4) compared to the middle and eastern parts. The safety index exhibits a random pattern (Moran I: -0.3333), indicating that it is spatially independent and unaffected by nearby sections. This index could help local authorities improve safety measures in the area.
ASSESSING ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE POLLUTION AROUND PUBLIC HOSPITALS IN SELANGOR, MALAYSIA: IMPLICATIONS FOR URBAN PLANNING
Authors: Mohd Nasir Yusma Hanim , Wan Ismail Wan Zuriea , Misni Alamah , Aksah Hasnizan
Published: November 2024

Environmental noise is a major concern, particularly in the vicinity of hospitals, which are designated as sensitive areas. There are many complaints about the outside noise, which makes their time in the hospital uncomfortable. Numerous factors, such as expanding urbanisation, industrial activity, traffic, and building, contribute to environmental noise pollution. To avoid having a significant negative effect on users, it is crucial to investigate the sources and measure the level of environmental noise. To date, no data has been recorded on environmental noise around public hospitals in Malaysia. The aim of this study is to assess the current environmental noise pollution surrounding selected hospitals and explore potential improvements that contribute to future urban planning. This study integrates a field measurement at three public hospitals in the Klang Valley (Hospital Shah Alam, Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah and Hospital Sungai Buloh), employing quantitative data collection via a sound level meter with a data logger to identify the various environmental noise sources surrounding public hospitals in the Klang Valley. The findings indicate that in one case study, the average readings failed to meet the DOE standard, categorising it as environmental noise pollution. Considering the results obtained, all three case studies’ environments require significant improvements that can be addressed through strategic urban planning, such as enforcing zoning regulations that restrict noise-emitting activities in the surrounding areas.
CATASTROPHIC FLOODING IN PAHANG, MALAYSIA: WHAT WENT WRONG WITH THE FLOOD RESPONSE?
Authors: Mabahwi Nurul Ashikin , Nakamura Hitoshi
Published: November 2024

This study aims to critically analyse the flood response in Pahang, Malaysia, focusing on identifying the issues and challenges from the perspectives of responsible agencies. Using qualitative research methods, including face-to-face interviews with 30 officers from various emergency response agencies, the study adopted thematic analysis to identify key issues. Findings indicated significant challenges, such as acute manpower shortages, severe deficiencies in logistical assets, substantial communication barriers, and coordination problems between agencies. The study underscored the need for improved resource allocation, enhanced communication technologies, better logistical planning, and stronger inter-agency cooperation to enhance flood response efficiency and effectiveness. Recommendations include adopting more robust communication technologies, comprehensive logistical asset management, proactive federal support, and a thorough overhaul of current emergency response protocols. This research highlights the urgent need for a more resilient and efficient disaster management framework to mitigate the impact of future floods.
DETERMINANTS OF RESIDENTS’ SUPPORT FOR TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AT WORLD HERITAGE SITE, LONGMEN GROTTOES, CHINA
Authors: Yutong Bai , Rahman Suraiyati
Published: November 2024

Heritage tourism has become increasingly popular in China, generating significant economic benefits for tourist destinations. Although the rapid growth of tourism in heritage sites boosts business opportunities, it also brings challenges, such as gentrification. The influx of new capital and investment in housing can disrupt the local community’s social and economic structure, often forcing residents to move away due to rising living costs and the inability to cope with rapid changes, as observed in the Longmen Communities. This shift in demographics tends to be profit-driven and can influence how residents perceive the benefits of tourism and their support for its development. This study examines the factors that shape residents’ perceptions of tourism benefits and their support for tourism development at heritage sites. Four main factors—community attachment, community involvement, community gains, and trust in government—were analysed to understand their influence on perceived benefits. A quantitative research method and systematic sampling were used for data collection. The study offers valuable insights into residents’ support for tourism development and the protection of heritage sites based on their perceived benefits. The findings provide guidance for government officials, tourism planners, and policymakers on shaping local opinions to foster heritage tourism.
UNDERSTANDING THE DYNAMICS OF SPORT TOURISM ON ISLANDS: CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIC PLANNING FROM EVENT ORGANIZERS’ PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Ku Azmi Nuwal Fadhilah , Hanafiah Mohd Hafiz , Md Zain Nur Adilah , Mior Shariffuddin Nur Shahirah
Published: November 2024

This study explores the challenges event organizers face in managing sporting events on island destinations and highlights the need for strategic planning to address unique logistical and operational issues. The qualitative research was conducted through semi-structured interviews with selected Malaysian sporting event organizers. The study found that the available tourism ecosystem, favorable destination image, accessibility, and sporting facilities availability are the key elements a sports tourism destination must have and are preferred by event organizers. In terms of challenges, organizing sporting events on islands involves overcoming logistical constraints, environmental impacts, high costs, and the need for cultural sensitivity, emphasizing careful planning and local engagement. The study's findings illuminate the importance of a comprehensive understanding of the tourism ecosystem, destination image, accessibility, and sporting facilities in shaping a thriving sports tourism destination in an island setting.
HERITAGE AWARENESS STRATEGY ON THE UNESCO-LISTED KEDAH HERITAGE ASSETS AMONG SCHOOL STUDENTS IN KEDAH, MALAYSIA
Authors: Wan Shamsuddin Wan Iskandar Zulkarnain , Said Shahrul Yani , Harun Siti Norlizaiha
Published: November 2024

As Malaysia’s oldest state, Kedah has a long and illustrious history. Its innumerable heritage assets deserve to be protected as part of a conservation effort for the sake of the country’s history and future generations. Lack of heritage-awareness among the community may result in the utter loss of heritage evidence, impeding the identity and pride in local communities as well as economic opportunity in the tourism industry. The aim of this paper is to develop a holistic ‘awareness strategy framework’ on UNESCO-listed Kedah heritage assets (KHAs) among school students in Kedah. Two (2) objectives have been established, namely: 1) to discover the principles of the provision of heritage-awareness strategy for heritage assets with global status, and 2) to ascertain the state of heritage-awareness level among school students on KHAs. A mixed-method analysis was employed involving a literature review and a state-wide survey with 676 school students to assess their awareness on KHAs and related matters. The data revealed alarming results, denoting low awareness on KHAs among the respondents. The findings further offer several recommendations on the appropriate strategy and action plans to enhance heritage-awareness. It is deemed that the implementation must begin with the establishment of a dedicated management body empowered under the state’s statutory act, which will be responsible for heritage-awareness creation via its public education system.
EVALUATING THE URBAN ARCHITECTURAL COLOUR STATUS OF JINAN, CHINA FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF COLOUR GEOGRAPHY
Authors: Ma YaoDong , Misni Alamah
Published: November 2024

This paper provides a comprehensive evaluation of the current status of architectural colour in Jinan through the theory of colour geography. Founded by Jean-Philippe Lenclos, colour geography studies the influence of geography and social culture on architectural urban colour. This study used tools to generate the data on site, including Chinese architectural colour charts, drones, and cameras. The city of Jinan, China, was chosen because of its rich history and culture, unique geographical environment, and multi-ethnic composition, all of which have contributed to its diverse urban colour. The colour characteristics of Jinan are divided into three areas: the old city, the new city, and the industrial area. This study provides an in-depth analysis of the current status of urban colour in Jinan, which provides a scientific basis for future urban planning and design to support sustainable development and cultural heritage protection. The results revealed that warm earth tones and traditional styles dominate the old city area, while cooler modern tones dominate the new city area. The industrial area is dominated by grey and yellowish brown. The study found that Jinan's urban colour scheme lacks uniformity, especially in the new development areas where highly saturated colours are widely used. In contrast, the colour scheme in the old city is more consistent and reflects traditional aesthetics. The study highlights the need for coordinated colour schemes to preserve cultural heritage and improve the consistency of urban aesthetics. We hope this study not only enriches the theory of colour geography, but also provides an important reference for existing and future urban colour planning in Jinan.
THE INFLUENCE OF OUTDOOR SPACE SPATIAL ECOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT FOR THE ELDERLY
Authors: Jing Lu , Misni Alamah
Published: November 2024

Outdoor activities improve the physical and mental health of the elderly. Only an excellent outdoor environment can attract the elderly, increase the frequency of their activities, and improve their quality. However, there is a lack of research on urban outdoor environmental factors that influence the outdoor activities of elderly people in China. This study aims to explore outdoor environmental elements suitable for the elderly in China, explore the impact of the environment on the activities of the elderly, and better design outdoor environments for the elderly. The study selected Beishan Park in Qingdao, China, as the research location because of its outdoor environment. It explored three aspects: the physical environment, the psychological environment, and the ecological environment. A survey questionnaire was written for data collection. The data was analysed using PLS-SEM to analyse the relationship between outdoor environmental factors. The research findings indicate that the ecological environment, which fosters both the physical and psychological environments, significantly influences the outdoor activities of the elderly population. A good ecological environment can encourage the elderly to spend more time outdoors. This paper discusses the important outdoor environmental factors that affect the outdoor activities of the elderly, provides a basis for improving the outdoor environment and outdoor activities of the elderly in Chinese cities, and also provides a reference for designers and related personnel.
BIOPHILIC WORKSPACES: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF VISUAL ATTRIBUTES IN GOVERNMENT INDOOR OFFICE ENVIRONMENTS IN PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA
Authors: Zulkifli Nabilah Huda , Sapian Abdul Razak , Abdul Munir Fadhlizil Fariz , Mansor Mazlina , Mohammad Yusoff Wardah Fatimah
Published: November 2024

The paper examines the visual features of biophilic design patterns in indoor workspaces in government office buildings in Putrajaya. It aims to highlight and identify the biophilic elements in these workspaces. The perceived perception of biophilic design elements is recorded based on inventory lists using the author’s expertise—the comfort and health of building occupants, mainly indoors, need to be considered. Visual benefits from interacting with nature, directly and indirectly, are abundant, including improving mood, thus contributing to enhanced focus and concentration. Based on the observation conducted on the indoor workspaces in the government offices in Putrajaya, Malaysia, the prevalent elements identified are the usage of natural lighting and diffused light entering from windows, especially in the cellular offices, which indirectly provides an external view outside the office. The presence of natural elements, such as potted plants and flowers, pictures of nature, botanical elements at the door, building panels, and pillars, can be seen. Biophilic design in indoor working spaces must be encouraged to cater to office users’ physical and mental well-being, thus improving their performance at work.
The Origin of Natural Neurostimulation: A Narrative Review of Noninvasive Brain Stimulation Techniques
Authors: Danilov Igor Val
Published: November 2024

This narrative review of the literature on noninvasive brain stimulation techniques observes four neurostimulation domains: light therapy, photobiomodulation, a group of techniques within transcranial electric current and magnetic field stimulations, low-frequency sound stimulations, including vibroacoustic therapy, and rhythmic auditory stimulation. The review aims to determine whether or not different brain stimulation approaches rely upon a similar physicochemical sequence of actions. The study identifies relevant hypotheses about processes at the cellular level underlying noninvasive brain stimulation. The data analysis reveals that mitochondria activity will likely play a central role in brain stimulations implemented by different approaches. Additionally, the mother-fetus neurocognitive model analysis gives insight into conditions of the natural neurostimulation of the fetal nervous system during pregnancy. Drawing on these findings, the article supposes the hypothesis of the origin of neurostimulation during gestation. The article presents the requisites of the nature-based brain stimulation technique, called Acoustic Photonic Intellectual Neurostimulation (APIN), derived from studying natural neurostimulation components.
Exploring the Social Media Discussion of Breast Cancer Treatment Choices: Quantitative Natural Language Processing Study
Authors: Spiegel Daphna Y , Friesner Isabel D , Zhang William , Zack Travis , Yan Gianna , Willcox Julia , Prionas Nicolas , Singer Lisa , Park Catherine , Hong Julian C
Published: November 2024

Background

Early-stage breast cancer has the complex challenge of carrying a favorable prognosis with multiple treatment options, including breast-conserving surgery (BCS) or mastectomy. Social media is increasingly used as a source of information and as a decision tool for patients, and awareness of these conversations is important for patient counseling.

Objective

The goal of this study was to compare sentiments and associated emotions in social media discussions surrounding BCS and mastectomy using natural language processing (NLP).

Methods

Reddit posts and comments from the Reddit subreddit r/breastcancer and associated metadata were collected using pushshift.io. Overall, 105,231 paragraphs across 59,416 posts and comments from 2011 to 2021 were collected and analyzed. Paragraphs were processed through the Apache Clinical Text Analysis Knowledge Extraction System and identified as discussing BCS or mastectomy based on physician-defined Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine Clinical Terms (SNOMED CT) concepts. Paragraphs were analyzed with a VADER (Valence Aware Dictionary for Sentiment Reasoning) compound sentiment score (ranging from −1 to 1, corresponding to negativity or positivity) and GoEmotions scores (0‐1) corresponding to the intensity of 27 different emotions and neutrality.

Results

Of the 105,231 paragraphs, there were 7306 (6.94% of those analyzed) paragraphs mentioning BCS and mastectomy (2729 and 5476, respectively). Discussion of both increased over time, with BCS outpacing mastectomy. The median sentiment score for all discussions analyzed in aggregate became more positive over time. In specific analyses by topic, positive sentiments for discussions with mastectomy mentions increased over time; however, discussions with BCS-specific mentions did not show a similar trend and remained overall neutral. Compared to BCS, conversations about mastectomy tended to have more positive sentiments. The most commonly identified emotions included neutrality, gratitude, caring, approval, and optimism. Anger, annoyance, disappointment, disgust, and joy increased for BCS over time.

Conclusions

Patients are increasingly participating in breast cancer therapy discussions with a web-based community. While discussions surrounding mastectomy became increasingly positive, BCS discussions did not show the same trend. This mirrors national clinical trends in the United States, with the increasing use of mastectomy over BCS in early-stage breast cancer. Recognizing sentiments and emotions surrounding the decision-making process can facilitate patient-centric and emotionally sensitive treatment recommendations.