bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Age-related Macular Degeneration – An Asian Perspective
Authors: Lim Tock-Han , Laude Augustinus
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the top blinding condition in developed countries. Dry AMD progresses slowly. Patients with dry AMD usually retain good vision until geographic atrophy or wet transformation sets in. Wet AMD causes rapid visual loss through chronic progressive or recurrent leakage and haemorrhage. Fundus biomicroscopy provides the clinical diagnosis, confirmed with fundus fluorescein angiogram (FFA). FFA also provides qualitative information on the rate of leakage. However, it does not adequately delineate the offending vascular lesion except in pure classic choroidal neovascularisation (CNV). Advancement in imaging technology employing confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope indocyanine-green angiography (CSLO-ICGA) allows for accurate identification and delineation of the offending vascular lesion in 95% of cases, and for vascular subtyping into CNV, polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) and retinal angiomatous proliferation (RAP). These vascular subtypes have different natural histories, and may respond differently to standard therapies.

Methods: In a case series of 158 Asian eyes with wet AMD in Singapore, CNV was found in 85%, PCV in 34% and RAP in 5%. The relative proportion is different from published data involving Caucasian patients. Evidence-based treatment of extrafoveal classic CNV is thermal laser photocoagulation. Evidence-based treatment of subfoveal CNV includes periodic intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) agents such as ranibizumab or pegatanib, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) with verteporfin for suitable lesions. Due to cost considerations, off-label intravitreal injection of bevacizumab, an agent approved for metastatic colorectal cancer, may be considered on a compassionate-use basis. Other treatment modalities include direct thermal photocoagulation of extrafoveal PCV and CSLO-ICGA-guided PDT for occult CNV and PCV. Extrafoveal Stage-1 RAP can be treated with thermal laser photocoagulation. As wet AMD is a chronic recurrent condition, monitoring for treatment response and recurrence is of utmost importance. Optical coherence tomography provides objective measurement of the retinal thickness. Together with serial fundus photographs, it is invaluable for disease monitoring. With optimal treatment, avoidance of moderate visual loss over 24 months can be achieved in over 90% of cases, and a significant visual improvement of 3 lines (LogMAR) can be expected in about a third of cases.

Conclusion: Optimal management using new pharmaco-therapies is unfortunately very costly at this juncture, and beyond the means of many Asian patients. Research into alternative cost-effective treatments is urgently needed.
The Role of Muller’s Muscle-Conjunctiva Resection (MCR) in the Treatment of Ptosis
Authors: Yip Chee-Chew , Foo Fong-Yee
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Muller’s muscle-conjunctival resection (MCR) is a form of posterior approach surgery for the treatment of ptosis. The phenylephrine test is commonly used preoperatively to predict the treatment response of MCR and to guide the amount of Muller’s muscle resection needed.

Methods: Literature search for this topic is done with PubMed using the words “Muller’s muscle”, “conjunctival”, “resection”, “mullerectomy”, “ptosis” and “blepharoptosis”. Additional articles on this subject were traced when indicated from the list of literature obtained by the PubMed search engine.

Results: The original surgical technique of MCR reported by Putterman and other modifications of this surgical technique are described. Various treatment algorithms on the quantity of Muller’s muscle to be resected for a desired level of ptosis correction and the surgical success rates are reviewed. As compared to other common ptosis surgeries, it offers the advantages of tarsal preservation, avoiding skin incisions, non-violation of the orbital septum and orbital fat. The disadvantages of MCR include non-preservation of conjunctiva (with goblet cells) and damage to the accessory lacrimal glands (glands of Krause and Wolfring).

Conclusions: MCR is an acceptable alternative treatment modality for mild and moderate ptosis with good levator function. It offers the benefits of short surgical time, being less invasive, obviating the need for intraoperative adjustment, predictability and less re-operation. The potential risks of conjunctival forniceal shortening and dry eye after surgery seem to be low.
Prophylaxis Against Endopthalmitis in Cataract Surgery
Authors: Tan Colin SH
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Endophthalmitis is an uncommon but potentially devastating complication of cataract surgery and often carries a poor prognosis. The incidence of endophthalmitis varies considerably in the literature, ranging from 0.05% to 0.35%. Some measures routinely used as prophylaxis have not been proven to be of benefit. This article reviews the current literature on the common prophylactic measures used to prevent endophthalmitis.

Methods: A search of the literature in Medline and critical review of the study design, sample size, and analysis of outcomes.

Results: Clinical studies on prophylactic measures suggest that using povidone-iodine 5% to clean the eyelids and conjunctiva before cataract surgery has a significant benefit both in reducing the actual rate of endophthalmitis and reducing the bacterial load after surgery. A bolus dose of intracameral cefazolin or cefuroxime has a significant benefit on reducing infection rate, with evidence for the latter drug coming from a large, prospective, randomised clinical trial. There is some evidence to suggest that subconjunctival antibiotics may reduce the incidence of endophthalmitis, although much of the evidence comes from case-control studies. Although the current evidence on the efficacy of topical antibiotic drops is mixed, this is commonly practiced both pre- and postoperatively.

Conclusions: The most useful prophylactic measures to reduce the rate of endophthalmitis are the use of 5% povidone-iodine and intracameral injection of antibiotics after surgery. Subconjunctival antibiotics may be of benefit, while topical antibiotics alone may not reduce the rate of endophthalmitis significantly.
Vision Restoration Therapy: New Hope for Stroke Patients with Visual Field Loss
Authors: Goh Kong-Yong
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Patients suffering from visual field defects caused by optic nerve or post chiasmatic injury commonly experience many limitations in their daily activities. The generally accepted paradigm that nothing can be done leaves little hope for such patients as restoration was once considered impossible. In recent years, however, a paradigm shift has taken place. Through high-resolution perimetry (HRP), areas of residual vision can now be identified where training visual functions help to restore some of the lost vision and there is now a growing body of evidence that the visual system possesses a high degree of plasticity.

Clinical Picture: A retrospective case review of 3 patients who suffered post-chiasmatic visual field loss and underwent 6 modules of vision restoration therapy (VRT). Their HRP results were compared before and after therapy.

Treatment: All 3 patients underwent 6 modules of VRT. Each module consisted of twice daily 30 minutes of visual stimulation consisting of 500 randomly placed supra-threshold visual stimuli in a central 540 by 430 dark monitor screen.

Outcome: All 3 patients experienced an improvement in their confidence in mobility as well as bumping less into objects in their peripheral fields. In Case 1, pre-VRT HRP showed a stimulus detection accuracy of 55.34%. After 6 modules of VRT there was an impressive increase to 90.23%. In Case 2, pre-VRT HRP showed a left incomplete homonymous hemianopia with a stimulus detection accuracy of 70.32% that improved to 98.10%. In Case 3, pre-VRT HRP revealed a left superior quadrantanopia with a stimulus detection accuracy of 57.03% that increased to 73.42%.

Conclusions: Although VRT is in its early stages in Singapore, the results from these 3 patients are promising and this can become one of the new modalities in the provision of an all-rounded neuro-rehabilitation programme for our patients with post-chiasmatic visual field loss.
An Investigation of Pre-Service English Language Teaching Students' Opinions About Their Practicum at Schools on the Basis of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Authors: Sağlam Manolya
Published: November 2024

Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the views of pre-service English language teaching students about their practicum at schools on the basıs of SDGS.
 
Theoretical Framework: Concerns about personal, perceptual, and motivational issues that arise during the teaching process can be linked to instructors' emotional and affective states, which in turn can lead to anxiety in foreign language instruction.
However, pre-service teachers' motivations are intrinsic, altruistic, and service-oriented related to their desire to study work with the students.
 
Method: This qualitative study involves 50 pre-servive English language teaching teachers studying at a foundation university in İstanbul/Türkiye. The data collection instruments include in-depth interviews, student reflection papers, and a questionnaire with open-ended questions.
Results and Discussion: The findings indicated that their worries stemmed from their own assessments of their foreign language ability, their lack of teaching experience, the students' disinterest in the classes, their concern of receiving poor feedback from both students and observers, and their inability to manage their time well.
The sources of motivation for the pre-service teachers were working with supportive teachers, the evaluation of the mentors, relationships with students, respect from students, and feeling useful and valuable.
 
Research Implications: Pre-service teachers had the chance to consider what teaching and learning meant to them personally and to assess their own performance during their teaching practicum. Pre-service training program curriculum have to be changed with an eye on improving their applicability to teaching practicums.
The Impacts of Environmental Amenities on Rental Value of Houses and a Pathway Towards Sustainable Urban Development Align with SDG 11
Authors: Sobhan Md. Abdus , Hossain Md. Elias , Ahmed Rashed , Bapari Md. Yahia
Published: November 2024

Objective: The objective of the study is to assess the impacts of environmental amenities on rental value of houses and formulate the pathway for sustainable urban development align with Sustainable Development Goals 11.
 
Theoretical Framework: The hedonic pricing model is an effective theoretical foundation for examining influence of environmental amenities and dis-amenities on house rental prices. It investigates how environmental factors influence house rental prices and promote sustainable urban development goals.
 
Method: The study is based on 210 primary data which are collected by random sampling survey of tenants living in Rajshahi City, Bangladesh. The hedonic regression method is used for assessing house rent determinants and willingness to pay formula is used for hedonic valuation of environmental attributes.
 
Results and Discussion: The study found four factors- income of tenant, house structure characteristics, neighborhood characteristics and environmental amenities including ventilation, open space proximity, drainage management, waterlogging and landfill by wastes which affect houses rent. In planned areas, proximity to open spaces and ventilation increases the rental value by 77.27% and 24.46% respectively than that of unplanned area. The willingness to pay for environmental amenities including open space, ventilation and proper drainage is BDT162.148 (US $1.35), BDT 164.055 (US $1.36, and BDT 64.271 (US $0.53) respectively from their average rent in planned area. In contrast, in unplanned areas, tenants are willing to pay more BDT 45.061 (US $0.37) for open space closer proximity, BDT 64.693 (US $0.53) for ventilation and BDT 78.536 (US $0.65) for proper drainage from their average rent.
 
Research Implications: The study propose that urban planning should prioritize environmental improvements, real estate developers should increase the value of houses through improved amenities and emphasizes the tenant preferences in developing sustainable residential zones.
 
Originality/Value: This study presents empirical evidence on the valuation of environmental amenities in Bangladeshi housing markets, adding new insights to the fields of urban economics and sustainability.
The Effect of the PJBL Model in Biology Learning on the Learning Outcomes of UPTD SMAN 1 Sarudu Students
Authors:   Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Tadulako, Lilies Lilies , Zahra Zahra ,   Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Tadulako, Rauf Abd. ,   Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Tadulako, Astija Astija ,   Biology Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Tadulako
Published: November 2024

The research seeks to elucidate the impact of the PJBL (project based learning) learning paradigm on student academic performance at UPTD SMA Negeri 1 Sarudu. This research utilizes a quantitative approach, specifically the quasi-experimental method. The population in this study comprises class X pupils, whereas the sample consists of students from classes Xa and Xb, utilizing a saturation sampling strategy. Data gathering methodologies include pretest and posttest inquiries throughout the first and final sessions. The research shows that the PJBL learning model has a big effect on how well students learn at UPTD SMA Negeri 1 Sarudu. There is a big difference between the experimental class that gets PJBL and the control class that doesn’t. The Mann-Whitney test revealed a score of 1,174 for the experimental class and 779 for the control class, with a significant value of 0.005, indicating acceptance of the hypothesis. Therefore, we concluded that the PJBL learning model had an influence on the biology learning outcomes of students at UPTD SMA Negeri 1 Sarudu.
The rise of the Taliban to the government in Afghanistan: assessment of internal and external factors
Authors: Madni Sumama , Ali Rizwan , Bakht Mahwish
Published: November 2024

The arrival of the Taliban in August 2021 has significantly affected Afghanistan’s governance, particularly in terms of service delivery for the betterment of the community at large and engaging stakeholders from different institutions in the decision-making process. This paper aims to analyse the governance of the Taliban, their role and policies towards internal and external factors, including regional relations and bilateral trade with China and Central Asia, geo-strategic significance, the role of public administration and women's rights in Afghanistan.  Data was collected from 27 people, including government officials and common people. Snowball and purposive sampling techniques are used for research. The framework for the study is Braun and Clarke, which is for thematic analysis in six phases. Major themes from the survey highlighted that the Taliban’s goal is to establish peace and smooth administrative running of its institutions. The key stakeholders, including academics, policymakers, and individuals interested in Afghan governance and international relations, play a crucial role in the issue of Afghanistan as a country and society. They have realised that the internal ethnic strife and external forces are considerable factors contributing to the destruction of Afghan society. These stakeholders are actively working for peace and stability in the country.
Políticas públicas e consumo individual de alimentos: comparativo entre alimentos in natura ou minimamente processados e ultraprocessados
Authors:   , Pereira Ana Carolina Dias
Published: November 2024

Este estudo buscou analisar o efeito do Programa Bolsa Família e do consumo de ultraprocessado na merenda escolar sobre as demandas individuais de alimentos, considerando alimentos in natura ou minimamente processados e ultraprocessados, conforme a classificação NOVA e do Guia Alimentar para a População Brasileira. A estratégia empírica utilizada baseia- se na estimação de múltiplas equações, com o balanceamento das observações por meio do Propensity Score Matching (PSM), utilizando os microdados da Pesquisa de Orçamento Familiares (POF) 2017-2018. Com base na Lei de Engel, que sugere que o aumento da renda leva a uma maior diversificação alimentar, a variável Bolsa Família foi usada para captar o efeito da transferência de renda sobre os gastos alimentares dos beneficiários. Para a análise sobre a merenda escolar, utilizou-se como proxy, o consumo de ultraprocessados, de forma típica, na merenda escolar. Os resultados indicam que os beneficiários do Bolsa Família tendem a aumentar em 4,21 pontos percentuais (p.p.) a parcela destinada a alimentos in natura ou minimamente processados, em comparação aos não beneficiários. Em contrapartida, a demanda por ultraprocessados diminui na mesma proporção. Apesar de o Bolsa Família promover um aumento no dispêndio com alimentos mais saudáveis, isso não é suficiente para garantir uma diversificação alimentar adequada. Quanto ao contato com ultraprocessados presente na merenda escolar, verifica-se que reduz a probabilidade na decisão de compra de Hortaliças e Frutas no domicílio dos indivíduos. Em domicílios com presença de crianças menores de 5 anos, nota-se redução na decisão de compra de Leite, ovos e farinha, sendo preocupante a substituição que o público infanto-juvenil tem feito. Conclui-se que tanto o Bolsa Família como o PNAE, influenciam os indivíduos na decisão de consumo dos alimentos. Apesar disso, a transferência de renda não é suficiente para aumentar a parcela de dispêndio com Frutas, Hortaliças e Carnes, que são produtos com maior valor agregado. Nota-se que o Bolsa Família é mais que um programa de transferência de renda, na qual influência nos hábitos alimentares dos beneficiários. Por outro lado, a merenda escolar por meio do PNAE, a distribuição de ultraprocessado no cardápio cria preferência alimentares por estes alimentos no domicílio e reduzindo a probabilidade de compra de alimentos in natura ou minimamente processados. Palavras-Chave: Bolsa Família; Merenda Escolar; Demanda individual de alimentos; PSM.
Optimization and Performance Evaluation of ZnS-Based Schottky Diode Simulated in Silvaco TCAD
Authors: M. Sai kumar  , Dr. Anita Khanna  , Mrs. Pragati Patharia
Published: November 2024

This research shares the plan, testing, and improvement of ZnS Schottky diode using N-ZnS and P-Si materials. The Silvaco TCAD software was used for the testing. It's important to blend p-Si & n-ZnS carefully for Schottky diodes with top-notch performance. The V-I characteristics Schottky diodes were deeply analyzed to guarantee the best efficiency and least leakage current. The emphasis was on reaching high rectification ratios and low reverse leakage currents under various conditions. By carefully adjusting device settings using advanced simulation methods, the performance metrics like forward current density and ideality factor were enhanced while reducing reverse leakage current. The results show a noteworthy enhancement in customization. Tailored Schottky diodes offer superior performance and reliability in diverse fields such as power electronics, solar devices, & sensor technologies. This research enhances semiconductor device engineering by highlighting the superior features of high-performance ZnS-based Schottky diodes developed with Silvaco TCAD software.
The Role of Volunteerism in Shaping Youth Social Skills: A Study of Motivational Factors in Malaysia
Authors: Abdul Kadir Zaemah , Megat Abdul Rahim Puteri Rohani , Syed Husain Sharifah Shahnaz , Rais Haniza , Yulia Yuyun
Published: November 2024

Volunteering by young people is essential because it helps them to contribute to the country and society. Volunteering is a concept and practice that refers to contributing or sharing time, resources, knowledge, skills or abilities, and experience voluntarily, without coercion, and without expecting a reward. Its central aim is to contribute to the development of the country. Despite all efforts to cultivate the spirit of voluntarism in society, studies on the motivation of young people to participate in voluntary activities have yet to receive much attention in research. This study examines youth participation in volunteer activities in Malaysia. In particular, the factors that motivate youths to participate in volunteer activities were examined. The snowball method was used in this study. According to the results, respondents ranked value factors as the most important part of volunteering. At the same time, they ranked understanding as the second most important part of volunteering. Respondents also saw protective qualities as an important aspect of volunteering. Finally, young people consider career and social issues the least important aspects of volunteering. The results of this study will provide some suggestions and recommendations on how institutions can help attract and engage students in volunteering more successfully.
Uma Reflexão sobre o Labor dos Catadores (as) de Resíduos Sólidos Recicláveis na Cidade de Fortaleza:
Authors: Andrade José Creginaldo de , Gonçalves Rodrigo Santaella
Published: November 2024

Este artigo faz parte de uma pesquisa recentemente concluída sobre o labor e a luta pela sobrevivência das pessoas que laboram na catação de resíduos sólidos recicláveis. Através da metodologia qualitativa com uma abordagem etnográfica, na pesquisa os catadores narram suas histórias de vida, trajetórias, seus anseios e seus sonhos. É necessário compreender a dinâmica dos catadores de resíduos sólidos, a partir de vários olhares, principalmente a grande contribuição dos catadores da valorização da reciclagem, com a colocação do lixo na rota capitalista de produção. Diante da problemática, resolvemos empreender este estudo, com objetivo geral de conhecer as histórias de vida e labor dos catadores de materiais de resíduos sólidos recicláveis. A questão dos resíduos sólidos é uma das questões ambientais atuais e inquietantes na sociedade moderna. Vivemos a era do consumismo desenfreado e a maioria dos produtos são descartáveis, causando grande preocupação para saúde das pessoas e um grande problema para o meio ambiente. É necessário refletirmos sobre as condições de precariedade e vulnerabilidade social no labor dos catadores (as) de resíduos sólidos recicláveis. Nunca foi fácil para essa classe trabalhadora, a luta por melhores condições de trabalho, reconhecimento da importância do seu trabalho pela sociedade, melhores condições de vida, dignidade, segurança e, principalmente pela sobrevivência.
Librarians’ social media use, attitudes, behaviour towards dissemination of health information during COVID-19 pandemic: The case of University of Ilorin Libraries
Authors: Ochonogor Wilson Chukwunedum
Published: November 2024

The study examined librarians‟ attitudes, behaviour towards dissemination of health information during COVID-19 pandemic focusing on University of Ilorin libraries in an information disorderly era using social media. The population of the study was 90 health librarians drawn from the libraries of University of Ilorin. The census sampling technique was adopted; that is the entire population was used as sample. The instrument for data collection from health librarians was the questionnaire. The data collected were analyzed using simple percentage and frequency counts for the demographic variables, while the mean was used to answer the research questions raised in the study. Findings of the study showed that librarians have positive attitude as they usually expect clear explanation from information seekers for their information needs and interact with information seekers to enable them assist them with information on COVID-19; the librarians behave well toward information seekers by consulting different resources to enable them provide required information on COVID-19; they also strategically sustain health information sources as they archive information materials for future use and reference purposes; librarians make sure that all questions from information seekers are answered. Based on the findings, the study recommended the need for librarians to improve their usage of social media during health emergencies, view social media as a veritable tool for information dissemination during health emergencies and the need to identify various strategic sustainability plans and make such as policies to guide their use of social media during health emergencies.
The constellation of punishment. Paths of criminal photography in the chilean visual culture of the entresiglo.
Authors:   Universidad Austral de Chile, Rodríguez Lehmann Cecilia , Risco Ana María
Published: November 2024

This article explores the participation of photography in the construction of what Alan Sekula named a "criminal body", paying special attention to the Chilean case. From the early photography made in prison and police spaces to the images of criminals published by mass magazines, we analyze the transformations of the representation of the criminal subject between the end of the nineteenth century and the beginning of the twentieth, in a Chile that was trying to modernize the State and its institutions. The corpus analyzed allows us to review strategies before and after the installation of the Bertillon method and to argue that the image of an unwanted other could only be constructed by relationship and contrast with a repertoire of images inserted in the tradition of bourgeois photographic portraiture, cultivated during the nineteenth century.
Comparative Evaluation of the Ameliorating Effects of Some Natural Products as Neurotherapeutic Interventions for a Neurodegenerative Disorder in Status Epilepticus Model
Authors: Ahmad Mohammad , Alharbi Homood , Alshehry Abdualrahman  Saeed , Alsadoun Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Background: The lithium-pilocarpine (Li-Pc) model of status epilepticus (SE) is the most convenient and is frequently used for pathophysiological and management strategies in search of new, safe, and effective therapeutic agents including natural remedies for SE. Oral administration of cinnamon (CIN), Nigella sativa (NS), and curcumin (CUR) can reduce neuroinflammation which is a common feature of neurodegenerative disorders. Although many studies on CUR and NS effects on SE have been undertaken, to our best knowledge no study has been conducted on studying the effect of CIN on SE. Purpose: The present study explores the neuroprotective effects of natural food products CUR, NS, and CIN on Li-Pc-induced SE in rats. This study may help to understand the neurotherapeutic effects of these natural food products on cognitive dysfunctions and brain oxidative stress which have a correlative perspective with SE. Methods: SE was induced in experimental rats using the lithium–pilocarpine model. Besides control groups, the animals were also grouped as treatment groups which received CIN, NS, and CUR pre-treatment before induction of SE. Besides the severity of the seizures, and cognitive dysfunctions, the oxidative stress parameters were also estimated in the fore-brain tissue of all groups of animals. Results: Treatment with CIN, NS, and CUR significantly lessened the frequency and severity of epileptic seizures in a dose-dependent manner. The cognitive dysfunctions and the oxidative stress indices (enzymatic and non-enzymatic) were ameliorated significantly and dose-dependently by these natural food products pre-treatments in the order NS<CIN<CUR in all parameters. Conclusion: Possible therapeutic applications of CIN, NS, and CUR as antiepileptics and as antioxidants for the treatment of SE in the order NS<CIN<CUR, have great potential and warrant further studies. Most importantly, involving such natural food products for neurotherapeutic applications bears great significance from a healthcare point of view for neurodegenerative disorders
Influence of Social Media on Youth Voting Behaviour: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Yahaya Fatimah Yazmin , Hassan Mohd Sufiean , Azni Zuliani Mohd , Hadi Siti Nur Izyandiyana Ab , Allam Siti Nurshahidah Sah , Ibrahim Noor Afzaliza Nazira
Published: November 2024

This paper delves into the significant impact of social media on the behavior, identity formation, and political involvement of young people, employing a systematic literature review (SLR) as its methodological approach. Social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter have evolved beyond mere entertainment channels. They now play a crucial role in shaping how youth express their political views, connect with like-minded individuals, and engage in political activities, often circumventing traditional media outlets. By examining existing research, the SLR uncovers prevailing trends and theoretical perspectives, revealing how these platforms contribute to a personalized approach to politics. The review highlights how social media enhances political awareness among young people and affects their voting patterns. The paper identifies several key areas of interest in current research, including how social media facilitates political discussions, fosters community-building, and enables youth to participate in political processes in novel ways. However, it also points out significant gaps in the existing literature, particularly concerning the long-term consequences of social media on political engagement and its ethical dimensions. The review emphasizes the need for ongoing research to fully understand how sustained use of social media platforms influences political behavior over time, and to explore the ethical implications of these interactions. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide a clearer understanding of the complex relationship between social media and youth political engagement, guiding future studies and policy considerations.
Orchestrating Followership: A Comprehensive Analysis of Follower Typologies and Organizational Dynamics
Authors: Zawawi Azlyn Ahmad , Halim Norsyazwani Ab , Kamarunzaman Nur Zafifa , Badruddin Nurazah Mohd , Patriani Ira
Published: November 2024

This review examines the pivotal role of followership in organizational success, focusing on prominent typologies such as Kelley’s follower types and Chaleff’s concept of courageous followership. These models provide a foundational understanding of how followers influence leadership effectiveness and team dynamics. Kelley’s framework categorizes followers based on their independent thinking and engagement levels, while Chaleff’s model emphasizes the active role followers play in both supporting and challenging leaders. By analysing various follower behaviours, this review highlights the reciprocal relationship between leaders and followers, where each contributes to the other’s success. In addition to synthesizing key typologies, the review identifies gaps in the literature, particularly in understanding the fluid transitions between follower types and how organizational culture impacts follower behaviour. It also addresses the evolving role of followership in modern organizations, influenced by changes in workplace dynamics, technology, and leadership practices. The insights presented call for further research to explore these emerging complexities, expanding the understanding of followership beyond traditional frameworks.
UM PANORAMA SOBRE AS TEORIAS E AS ABORDAGENS PEDAGÓGICAS DA EDUCAÇÃO A DISTÂNCIA (EAD) NOS CURSOS DE GRADUAÇÃO EM ADMINISTRAÇÃO NO BRASIL
Authors: Kuazaqui Edmir , Antonio Volpato Luis
Published: November 2024

O objetivo deste artigo é descrever as principais teorias que fundamentam a Educação a Distância (EAD) nos cursos de Administração no Brasil, bem como os autores que contribuem para essa área de conhecimento sob o ponto de vista do docente. Aborda-se também as principais metodologias pedagógicas aplicadas, incluindo o modelo de broadcast, a virtualização da escola tradicional, o conceito de "estar junto virtual" e a flexibilização no uso de diversas abordagens. Além disso, discute-se conceitos essenciais relacionados ao Currículo e apresenta-se um panorama histórico da atividade profissional do Administrador no Brasil, além de delinear o perfil do Administrador conforme as diretrizes do Ministério da Educação (MEC). Foram 40 questionários aplicados em amostra não probabilística por conveniência. As análises revelam que as abordagens pedagógicas nos cursos de graduação em Administração na EAD variam consideravelmente entre as instituições, refletindo uma diversidade de paradigmas teóricos. Essa variação sugere a necessidade de um aprofundamento nas práticas pedagógicas, visando a melhoria da qualidade do ensino e a formação de profissionais capacitados para os desafios do mercado de trabalho. Embora alguns identifiquem que o EAD pode ser uma forma de redução de custos, outros tem a percepção de qualidade, salvo as limitações da IES e corpo discente. Assim, o artigo contribui para um melhor entendimento das dinâmicas da EAD e suas implicações na formação do Administrador no Brasil.
User Acceptance and Usability for Early Detection of Hearing Loss Using The LittlEars Application: A Validity Study
Authors: Suharti Amien , Roselina Elsa , Ramadhani Riznadia , Natilda Fiya , Putranto Fikri Mirza , Airlangga Tri Juda , Hawalie Azwien Niezam
Published: November 2024

Introduction: This study aims to evaluate the acceptance among Posyandu cadres of the Littlears application, which is designed to identify hearing impairments in children early on.
Method: The LittlEars Questionnaire, designed to identify hearing impairment in children, has evolved into the LittlEars application with the objective of early detection of hearing loss. The evaluation of system usability within the framework of the USE Questionnaire involves four key elements: usability, user-friendliness, learnability, and user satisfaction, and is assessed through 35 specific questions.
Result: The usability assessment of the LittlEars application through the USE questionnaire revealed that its usefulness stands at 95.4%, its ease of use at 93.5%, its ease of learning at 92.8%, and satisfaction levels at 94.6%. The average for all dimensions combined is 9.07%.
Conclusion: The LittlEars application can be accepted by users, especially Posyandu cadres, and is an application that is easy to use in detecting hearing loss in children.
Enhancing Data Analytics and Visualization Support in CSViewer for Analysts - Version 1.1: Access to an Integrative Database and Knowledge Model of Cayo Santiago Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Zhao Martin Q. , Novak Cooper , Widener Ethan R. , Patel Raj A. , Gong Rui , Francis George , Wang Qian
Published: November 2024

The CSViewer for Analysts app is designated to provide a myriad of graphical user interfaces and analytical tools for researchers to study the valuable datasets collated from the Cayo Santiago Rhesus macaque colony, which has been raised on the "monkey island" off Puerto Rico since 1938. It is a part of the effort to integrate decades of accumulated genealogy and demographic information with newly collected osteology data using the CS derived skeletal sets. When Version 1.0 was first shared among the collaborating teams in early 2023, CSViewer enabled its users to browse the CS population in the forms of matrilineal and patrilineal trees, as well as to visualize skull dimension data and photos when they are available. After choosing a Java-based dataframe library, a planned redesign has been implemented into Version 1.1, which supports data selection for animal subjects, bone measures to include, as well as facilitates more streamlined data management within the system. Various data analytics and visualization features have been added in v1.1, and a workshop was held during AABA 2024 to introduce CSViewer to interested users. Project-related materials have also been used to provide teaching materials in related undergraduate classes at the Computer Science Department of Mercer University to engage students in this NSF-funded project.
 
Received: 9 May 2024 | Revised: 30 September 2024 | Accepted: 31 October 2024
 
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest to this work.
 
Data Availability Statement
Data available on request from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
 
Author Contribution Statement
Martin Q. Zhao: Conceptualization, Methodology, Software, Validation, Formal analysis, Investigation, Resources, Data curation, Writing - original draft, Writing - review & editing, Visualization, Project administration, Funding acquisition. Cooper Novak: Software, Validation, Writing - review & editing. Ethan R. Widener: Software, Writing - original draft. Raj Patel: Validation, Writing - review & editing. Rui Gong: Methodology, Formal analysis, Writing - review & editing, Visualization. George Francis: Methodology, Validation, Investigation, Data curation, Writing - original draft, Writing - review & editing. Qian Wang: Conceptualization, Resources, Funding acquisition.
Unpacking Optimism versus Concern: Tertiary Students' Multidimensional Views on the Rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Authors: Nkedishu Victor Chukwubueze , Okonta Vinella
Published: November 2024

This paper examined unpacking optimism versus concern: tertiary students' multidimensional views on the rise of AI. The study was guided by four research questions and hypotheses respectively. Ex-Post-Facto using descriptive survey method was employed in the study. The study population consists of 29,000 undergraduate students of Delta State University, from which a stratified sampling technique was used to sample 398 respondents. The questionnaire titled, “Tertiary Students' Multidimensional Views on the Rise of AI Questionnaire (TSMVRAIQ)” was validated through face and content validity. Data were analysed using means and standard deviations for research questions while hypotheses were tested using a t-test and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) at a significant level of 0.05. The study found that university students from various disciplines view AI as a significant opportunity to advance educational research, enable personalized learning, and enhance data analysis accuracy. Students believe AI will positively impact society, lead to technological advancements, and benefit all demographics equally. AI literacy significantly influences students' perceptions of AI's social impact, driven by factors such as personal interest and engagement. Also, Students demonstrated proactive thinking and a desire for active university involvement in shaping AI development. It was thus recommended that Universities should create dedicated AI research centers that foster interdisciplinary collaboration. These centers could organize regular workshops, seminars, and hands-on projects that bring together students from various disciplines to work on AI-related challenges.
Crude Oil By-Products Price Movements and Standard of Living: Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Ighoroje James Ese , Okorie Chiyem , Egberi Kelvin Agbarha
Published: November 2024

Crude oil deposits have occasioned over-dependence for most Nigerians, forming a single, high-valued commodity as a primary source of earnings exposure. Nevertheless, crude oil product prices are highly volatile. This study analyzed the impact of changes in the prices of crude oil by-products price movements on standard of living in Nigeria from 1989 to 2021. The changes in crude oil product prices are disaggregated into costs of oil price per barrel movements (OPBM), Diesel Pump Price Movements (DPPM), Petroleum Pump Price Movements (PPPM), and Kerosene Pump Price Movements (KPFF), while the regressed per capita income as a proxy for living standards in Nigeria. The data were analyzed using econometric methods, specifically the Unit Roots tests, Fully Modified OLS (FMOLS) Granger causality test and Generalized Method of Moments (GMM). The result established that OPBM- Oil Price per Barrel Movements and Petroleum Pump Price Movements reduce per capita income significantly while KPPM- Kerosene Pump Price Movements minimally reduce per capita income. However, DPPM- Diesel Pump Price Movements improve per capita income minimally. The study concludes that the overall reliance on crude oil is behind the improvised state of Nigerians. To reduce Nigerians' (especially OPBM and PPPF) dependence on crude oil by-products, mostly OPBM local pump prices should be lowered. Again, the government should re-direct its revenue towards improving the standard of living. The study is novel as it provides a robust economic policy model linking crude oil by-products and Nigeria's living standard.
The Effect of Regularized Unweighted Least Squares on CFI, TLI, RMSEA and TLI in Structural Equation Modeling
Authors: Zulkifli Nurul Raudhah , Aimran Nazim , Deni Sayang Mohd
Published: November 2024

In a confirmatory investigation, researchers are mandated to employ covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM). A crucial assumption inherent in CB-SEM is the multivariate normality of the data. However, real-world data rarely conforms to a perfectly normal distribution. To address this, unweighted least squares (ULS) is specifically tailored for handling non-normally distributed data in SEM. Nonetheless, ULS often yields unsatisfactory outcomes, such as negative or boundary estimates of unique variances, as it accounts for measurement errors in observed variables. In the realm of SEM, unique variance manifests as disturbance, arising from unreliability or measurement error and reliable variation in items indicating latent causes that are not explicitly known. One common cause of improper solutions in SEM is non-convergence, wherein the estimation fails to reach a minimum fit function. To address this challenge, the present study proposes the regularization of the ULS estimator to rectify inadequacies in model fit. Multivariate non-normally distributed data, with predetermined population parameters and sample sizes, were generated through Pro-Active Monte Carlo simulation and subsequently analyzed using the R Programming Environment. The results reveal the effectiveness of the regularized ULS in enhancing model fit indices such as the Comparative Fit Index (CFI), Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI), Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA), and Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMR).
Healthcare Customers’ Intention to Adopt AI Technologies: A Systematic Literature Review and Future Research Directions
Authors: Mathew Joshy , Mer Akansha , Tanwar Vimlesh
Published: November 2024

This systematic literature review (SLR) explores the factors determining healthcare customers' intention to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Various established theoretical frameworks such as TAM, TAM, UTAUT, BRT, and BHM and their predictors are analysed to comprehend the readiness of healthcare customers to embrace AI-powered technologies in their daily lives. Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, twenty-two studies from diverse databases were meticulously reviewed and synthesised to comprehensively evaluate the determinants influencing the acceptance of AI technologies in healthcare. This study aims to explore the frameworks analysing healthcare customers' intentions to adopt AI-based medical technologies, identify acceptance factors, assess AI's impact on outcomes, and highlight future research areas. Healthcare is transformed by AI technologies such as virtual assistants and wearables, which results in diagnostic precision, improved efficiency, personalised care, better patient outcomes, and lower healthcare costs. Additionally, it highlights potential research areas for further exploration to enhance comprehension of AI adoption among healthcare consumers, emphasising the significance of integrating psychological and behavioural perspectives in providing AI interventions that are effective, morally suitable and customised for specific individuals. This comprehensive study highlights the potential of AI to transform healthcare services and patient care and advocate for strategies that foster its successful implementation and acceptance.
A Review of Work-Life Balance Trends in Remote Work
Authors: Rustan Ahmad Fauzan , Puji Rahayu Meika Kurnia , Surwanti Arni
Published: November 2024

This bibliometric analysis explores the development of work-life balance (WLB) research within remote work, covering publications from 2014 to 2023. The study uses the Scopus database to examine key trends, including annual publication growth, language distribution, country contributions, subject areas, leading authors, and highly cited papers. Results show a sharp increase in research output following the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by the global shift to remote work, significantly impacting WLB. English is the predominant publication language, with the United States, India, and the United Kingdom contributing the highest number of studies. The research spans diverse disciplines such as social sciences, business, medicine, psychology, and environmental sciences, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of WLB studies. Key themes include employee productivity, mental health, job satisfaction, and organizational strategies for sustaining WLB in remote work settings. The study highlights influential papers and authors, as well as emerging themes and gaps in this study. Limitations include the exclusive reliance on the Scopus database, which may exclude relevant studies from other sources. Overall, this analysis offers valuable insights into the progression of WLB research in remote work environments, providing practical implications for policymakers and organizations aiming to improve employee well-being and work-life integration in the modern, flexible workplace.
Spiritual Well-Being in Relation to Spiritual Engagement among Tribal Youth of Indigenous Donyi-Polo Faith
Authors: Amar Tadar , Goswami Kakali
Published: November 2024

The present this study aims to explore relationship between the engagement in spiritual activities and the spiritual well-being of tribal youth practicing indigenous religious faith of Donyi Polo. The tribal youth of indigenous faith practices closeness to nature and believe on spirit in various natural entity and spirituality is considered as closeness to mother nature. The present study aims to explore the concept of spirituality in terms of finding the reason of existence in this world, how to liberate oneself with human limitation. The researchers administered the Spiritual Well-being (SWB) Scale and a self-constructed interview schedule on Spiritual engagement to 103 tribal youth selected randomly from Arunachal Pradesh, ages 18 to 32 who practice indigenous religious faith Donyi-polo. The results found that there was high level of spiritual well-being among the youth. Additionally, individuals who engaged in spiritual practices had considerably higher scores on measures of spiritual well-being than those who did not. Further research findings indicate that those who often read or listened to spiritual content had considerably higher scores for spiritual well-being compared to those who didn’t. The finding of the research is able to fill the gap in present knowledge in spiritually among indigenous tribal youth of India in a borderland state.