bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal distribution and relative abundance of bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, along the US mid-Atlantic Coast
Authors: Torres Leigh G. , McLellan William A. , Meagher Erin , Pabst D. Ann
Published: March 2023

In the US mid-Atlantic, multi-disciplinary studies are underway to elucidate the complex stock structure of coastal bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), as well as the degree of overlap between coastal and offshore ecotypes. In this study we use geo-referenced data, collected during aerial surveys in 2000-2002, to describe the distribution and relative abundance of bottlenose dolphins along the US midAtlantic coast. Two aerial survey designs were used: (1) onshore/offshore surveys out to 35 n.miles during winter from Georgia to Virginia; and (2) coastal surveys throughout the year along North Carolina (NC). The winter onshore/offshore surveys demonstrated that significantly more bottlenose dolphins occur in Raleigh Bay (between Cape Hatteras and Cape Lookout, NC), than in all other regions. Additionally, in winter most bottlenose dolphins occur in the coastal waters of NC; nearly half of all sightings occurred between the shoreline and 3km from shore. The year-round, coastal surveys demonstrated that this winter distribution pattern is the result of a distinct seasonal increase in the number of dolphins within the coastal waters of NC. Circular statistical analyses demonstrated a strong influence of season on dolphin abundance. Relatively few bottlenose dolphins were observed in late spring, summer, and early autumn, with increased numbers observed during winter. In all seasons but summer, dolphin numbers were highest in Raleigh Bay. Thus, the results of both surveys indicate the importance of the habitat surrounding Cape Hatteras to bottlenose dolphins. Dolphins may preferentially use these waters in response to changes in prey distribution and/or abiotic factors such as water temperature. These results reveal an overall seasonal movement pattern along the US Atlantic coast, which appears to be correlated, at least in part, to water temperature gradients and prey availability. Although the stock identity of dolphins sighted during these aerial surveys could not be ascertained, focused photo-identification efforts, together with enhanced genetic sampling, would provide insights into the movement patterns, and, thus, stock identity, of dolphins in this region.
Artificial Intelligence and Malignant Melanoma : A Review
Authors: Ramezanpour Peyman , Sasani Shahram , Golshahi Rad Shiva
Published: March 2023

Malignant Melanoma is the most deadly form of skin cancer and one of the most quickly expanding cancers in the world. Some of melanocytic nevi have a higher risk of developing malignant melanoma. Early diagnosis of melanoma is critical due to increasing survival rates, decreasing surgical removal and following disfigurement, and reducing the overall care costs. Although the golden standard is histopathologic examination of the excised suspicious lesion, there are a number of tools which allow a more detailed examination of the skin lesion. Artificial intelligence (AI) with its subfields (deep learning and machine learning) and imaging technologies have been incorporated in science and medicine. In dermatology, the rising incidence of melanoma, the benefits of early diagnosis, and the limited access to dermatologic services in some countries, have conduced  developing of image-based, automated diagnostic systems and the usage of either clinical or dermoscopic images. This article tries to overlook the studies in this field and give a general view of it.
Fashion Consumerism: the Impact of Marketing Strategies on Generation Z Consumers
Authors: Bjerre Ella
Published: March 2023

The fashion industry is one that constantly changes due to worldly events. One of the most common ways to market fashion to consumers is through social media. Interestingly, Generation Z is one of the leading causes of social media use for marketing. With COVID-19 drastically impacting all aspects of life, the researcher chose to answer this question: “How have fast fashion and sustainable fashion brands adapted their social media marketing to target Generation Z in The United States as a result of the pandemic?” The method chosen for this paper was a content analysis looking at 1,200 Instagram posts uploaded to the accounts of five fast fashion brands, and five sustainable fashion brands within chosen dates between 2019 and 2021. The study found that the biggest shifts in social media marketing lay within advocacy of worldly events, sustainability, and a decrease in regular clothing advertisements. While fast fashion and sustainable fashion brands are certainly different, there are interesting parallels between them as it pertains to social media marketing.
Traditional Mongolian on Modern Devices
Authors: Barker Samantha , Ewalt Jessica
Published: March 2023

Computer operating systems have been slow to adopt the Traditional Mongolian script for the Mongolian language due to its vertical, left-to-right orientation. Prior research shows that Webkit-based browsers struggle to display the Traditional Mongolian script, while Blink-based browsers like Google Chrome are able to display Mongolian text to a certain extent. However, this research is outdated and fails to look at these issues with reference to the operating system being used to host each browser. This study will determine the accessibility of the Mongolian script on modern computer systems by examining the problems that major operating systems have with the Traditional script. Data was collected through a needs assessment, where quantitative analysis of the data was employed. Operating systems included Android 12, iOS 15, and Windows 10, in which Google Chrome, Safari, Microsoft Edge, and Samsung Internet were hosted. Initial results showed that browsers ran in iOS contained a higher amount of text rendering problems compared to other variables, while browsers ran in Android and Windows had the most amount of support and were the most usable. Text rendering problems generally varied based on the operating system being used rather than the browser displaying the text, meaning that Mongolian support problems were moreso dependent on the operating systems. These findings indicate that Mongolian display problems lie more with the operating systems themselves, meaning that distributors like Apple, Android, and Windows should consider which aspects of localization support should be focused on when providing language options for the Traditional Mongolian script.
A Feasibility Study of Lightweight Polylactic Acid Fused Deposition Modeled Propeller Prototyping
Authors: Sundar Aadhav , Bain Stephen
Published: March 2023

From the inception of fused deposition modeled (FDM) 3D printing, various materials have been introduced as filaments. Lightweight polylactic acid (LW-PLA) has been introduced as a 3D printing material by a company named ColorFabb, and it has a unique property to expand at around 230℃. The expansion can be calculated and harnessed to create more lightweight 3D printed models. Previous studies have used ANSYS computer simulations to gauge the feasibility of 3D printed propellers of various materials. Previous studies that tested propellers in real life have shown that propellers made from polylactic acid (PLA), another 3D printing plastic, are only feasible for prototyping purposes. This study attempted to find feasibility of LW-PLA in the FDM prototyping of propellers by using a real life testing apparatus to compare LW-PLA and PLA propellers. 4 propeller designs were made, and PLA and LW-PLA counterparts were created for each design. A significant difference in thrust-efficiency ratio was found between LW-PLA and PLA propellers, indicating that LW-PLA propellers were not feasible for propeller prototyping. It was observed that the application of acrylic sealer coatings to both LW-PLA and PLA propellers decreased the difference, but the difference was still significant in most cases. Additionally, LW-PLA propellers were observed to be about 50% of the weight of their PLA counterparts, indicating that LW-PLA propellers may be useful in situations where weight is required to be minimized. This study is significant in that it addresses the major gap in the research of LW-PLA and its applications in aerospace.
A Method For Network Intrusion Detection Using Deep Learning
Authors: Mudigonda Nihar
Published: March 2023

In an increasingly digitally reliant world, organizations are facing the ever more challenging problem of how to best defend their digital information and infrastructure. Current non-machine learning methods for detecting network intrusion, like signature-based and anomaly-based algorithms, are slow and unreliable. Signature based detection holds signatures, or known information and warning signs, about a known attack and compares them to the current flow of data. If a signature matches with the network activity, users and network administrators are notified. Anomaly based detection is where the system monitors current network traffic and compares it to a set baseline traffic. Again, if any unusual traffic occurs, members of the network are notified. In this research, new advancements in deep learning algorithms are used to bolster the defenses of digital networks. Neural networks are used to create a multi-class classifier, which will determine whether the network activity is a certain type of malicious attack or benign. We will use the CICIDS2017 dataset (Canadian Institute of Cybersecurity), which is a state-of-the-art network intrusion dataset composed of computer network activity, including  multiple types of attacks such as DDoS, SQL Injection, and Brute Force. This research proposes a more precise network intrusion detection system (NIDS) to accurately detect malicious network activity. Better NIDSs will also prevent cybercrime and create a safer internet for all users.
Can we predict the future?: Modelling SARS-CoV-2 epidemic to endemic transition
Authors: Agrawal Krish , Broad Arianna
Published: March 2023

COVID-19, an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is the viral agent responsible for the ongoing pandemic. Various vaccines have been developed for different strains of the virus. This has led to reduction in the number of infections and deaths throughout the world, but the pandemic seems to be far from over due to constant mutations in the structure of the virus and other factors like immunity loss rate and re-infections. However, there is guidance to how we should proceed from a public health standpoint, due to the similar cases of influenza and the Hepatitises. These pathogens started out as epidemics or pandemics, then morphed into an endemic over the course of decades. Therefore, by combining our knowledge of these past epidemic to endemic transitions, we have made similar predictions about the transition of the COVID-19 pandemic into endemicity. A simple epidemiological model called the SIR model has been utilized to predict the course of the pandemic by computation, considering 2 cases – one without vaccination intervention and the other with vaccination intervention. The results indicate that COVID-19 is likely already an endemic, but to maintain a stable state and to mitigate the death toll, there is a serious need for continuous vaccination and regular changes in vaccinations as the virus mutates.
Prediction of Chronic Graft vs. Host Disease Using Machine Learning
Authors: Bordia Sanay , Ramezani Ramin
Published: March 2023

This paper attempts to predict the onset of chronic Graft vs. Host Disease (GVHD) in children with blood cancers who have received a bone marrow or stem cell transplant using machine learning models. It analyzes and compares the results of three different models in terms of how accurate they each are in predicting chronic GVHD. These models are Logistic Regression, J48 algorithm using decision trees, and Multilayer Perceptron. The models are formed using a dataset containing 36 attributes, excluding chronic GVHD itself. Through data preprocessing and analysis in Weka, these 36 attributes are narrowed down for each model to figure out which combination of attributes leads to the best predictive accuracy. The study uses 10-fold cross validation for each model and uses the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) Area as a measure of the accuracy for each model. The study found that Multilayer Perceptron is the best predictor of chronic GVHD. In comparison, Logistic Regression was the worst predictor of chronic GVHD. The J48 algorithm used the least number of attributes to make its prediction.
Regenerative Medicine and its Potential in Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Garg Dhruv
Published: March 2023

Regenerative medicine, using stem cell therapies, has shown great promise in developing advances in medicine to long standing disease. Gene editing technologies such as the novel CRISPR-Cas9 (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats with CRISPR associated protein 9) system, has enabled gene manipulation that is precise and efficient, with applicability to regenerative medicine. Patients with diseases thought to be incurable may attain the most benefit from regenerative medicine, particularly with cell-based therapies. Induced pluripotent stem cells due to their versatility and flexible differentiation have proven that they are the most viable stem cell option in the creation of safe and effective regenerative treatment. To create induced pluripotent stem cells, somatic cells first need to code for an induced pluripotent stem cell in the body using varying levels of the following transcription factors: cMyc, Klf4, Sox2, and Oct4. Once in an induced state, these pluripotent stem cells need to be further specialized and differentiated into a specific cell. To code for this differentiation into a cardiomyocyte, additional transcriptional factors are required, including: Gata4, Mef2c, and Tbx5. Through the alteration of these seven different transcriptional factor levels, an ideal induced pluripotent stem cell and eventually the ideal cardiomyocyte can be created. With the development of functional cardiomyocytes, micro arteries can be created which can aid in redirecting blood flow away from blockages caused by diseases such as myocardial infarctions. This can greatly reduce the fatality of myocardial infarctions and prevent relapse.
A Miscalculated Risk: Austria-Hungary, the “Blank Cheque” and the Origins of the First World War
Authors: Ha Raymond , Petrovic Vladimir
Published: March 2023

This paper examines whether Austria-Hungary would have gone to war with Serbia and thereby initiated the First World War if it had not received the “blank cheque” from Germany on July 5th and 6th, 1914. The article begins by exploring political debates over war against Serbia in Austria-Hungary’s Ministerial Council following of the assassination of Franz Ferdinand, as informed by the diverse personal and domestic interests of the council’s members. It then analyzes the probability of Austro-Hungarian victory in a hypothetical invasion of Serbia without German support. Possibilities of a peaceful resolution of the assassination crisis that may have been achieved without German obstruction are also taken into account. Overall, this paper concludes that an Austro-Hungarian invasion of Serbia in 1914 becomes unlikely without the blank cheque. It also offers insights into the role of diplomatic support in emboldening risk-taking by states past and present, even when major wars are possible. The extent to which such support is unconditionally guaranteed in alliances continues to be an important factor when de-escalating international crises today.
Statistical Analysis of The Effect of Participation in the Interdistrict Tinsley Voluntary Transfer Program On Student Academic Achievement
Authors: Chen Sheryl
Published: March 2023

Academic outcomes are a centerpiece of desegregation literature, as desegregation is often viewed as a means to rectify systemic racial inequality in the education system. However, because a vast majority of desegregation programs in the United States happen within district, and not between districts, where there are the most racial divisions, existing research may not portray the full extent of what racial integration. Investigations into interdistrict desegregation may offer greater insights into the effects of racial integration and better school resources on individual minority students.

This paper zooms into the Tinsley Voluntary Transfer, an interdistrict desegregation program allowing students in the minority Ravenswood City School District to transfer into neighboring Mid-Peninsula schools. In an effort to contextualize the existing literature on minority academic outcomes of desegregation to interdistrict transfer in specific, the research question posed is as follows: Is there a statistically significant difference in the academic performance of Tinsley transfer students and students who stayed within the Ravenswood district?

To assess the relationship between these two groups, quantitative statistical analysis was performed on data sets of the standardized test scores from 3rd-8th grade of both Tinsley transfer students in the Menlo Park City School District and Ravenswood students who did not transfer out of the district. The result was that there is a statistically significant difference between groups, though excluding for 7th and 8th grade Math. The paper hypothesizes that this may be partially accounted for by the beginning of tracking in math courses at the Menlo Park district.
Factors Contributing to the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Chen Yihang , Syed Ali Alamdar Shah
Published: March 2023

Both the deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are classified into venous thromboembolism (VTE). Risk factors for VTE are multifactorial with both genetic and non-genetic risk factors. Factor V Leiden, Prothrombin, and ABO blood group are three widely researched mutations highly associated to VTE while there are other rarer genetic risk factors such as Protein C, Protein S, Antithrombin deficiencies. Race and ethnicity, age, sex, diet and lifestyle are examples of some of the non-genetic risk factors for VTE; however, because non-genetic risk factors may be dependent of other environmental factors (such as the relationship between sex and oral contraceptives), their individual association to VTE needs further research.
Analyzing Bacteria Growth Differences Among Home Produced and Industrially Manufactured Samples of Maple Syrup from a County in Northeast Ohio
Authors: Coleman Caden , Talarczyk Patricia
Published: March 2023

Maple syrup has been identified as one of the healthiest natural sweeteners by many scholarly sources. Previous research has examined the bacteria growth in syrup samples to assess its antibacterial properties. The goal of this research study was to examine the bacteria presence on locally versus commercially produced maple syrup in Geauga County, where home produced maple syrup options are prevalent. To assess the differences in terms of bacteria growth and sugar content of syrup samples in Northeast Ohio, a quantitative method was conducted where five samples from roadside stands and five samples from mass produced locations sold in stores were purchased. The colonies were counted over a period of six days and the sugar content was measured using a refractometer. It was concluded from this research that home produced samples contained less bacteria than store bought samples, which indicates potential health benefits for consumers to choose the best source of maple syrup production for their health. There was also a slight correlation discovered between the sugar content of the syrup and the number of colonies grown by the end of the data collection period.
The reason behind the collapse of Ming
Authors: Liu Yuhao
Published: March 2023

Born in 1368 A.D., after the fall of the Yuan dynasty, the Great Ming Dynasty, which ruled until 1644, was the last Chinese dynasty ruled by a member of the Han ethnic group. Throughout the Ming dynasty, China’s population doubled, and trade, art, technology, and architecture reached new heights. However, the Great Ming Dynasty collapsed in 1644, its capital fallen to the rebel army led by Li Zicheng. This collapse was caused by several long-term causes embedded in its structure, which had eroded the government to the point of collapse. An important cause was the political structure that the founding emperor, Zhu Yuanzhang, created at the initial phrase of the dynasty. The political system had been built up with several flaws that worsened as the dynasty evolved, which led to the rebellion and the collapse of the dynasty. These flaws included aspects within economy, heritage, and military.
Complex Roots of Quadratics with the Floor Function
Authors: Sun Eric , Modgil Vidur , Yuan Kevin
Published: March 2023

Quadratics are generally a rather well-understood portion of mathematics, with methods of solving quadratics being presented early in one’s mathematical development. However, when floor functions, also a well-understood function in mathematics, are inserted into such quadratics, the complexity of such expressions quickly increases. In this paper we extend the work of a previous paper focusing on the behavior of quadratics with the floor function in them by extending our analysis to the complex plane. In our paper, we utilize both algebraic analysis and domain coloring to examine the roots of such functions, and the impact the coefficients of a quadratic have on the roots of such a function. Our paper finds that quadratics with a floor function inside can be solved through finding the intersection of two graphs or through the use of domain coloring. We also show that there is no upper bound on the number of complex roots a single function of the form z2+b[z]+c can have. Lastly, we examine the behavior of the roots of a quadratic with a floor function inside when the coefficients of the equation are incremented and find similarities to the behavior of a normal quadratic.
Trial by Jury: The Anchor for Democracy
Authors: Wang Zhicheng , Peterson Aaron
Published: March 2023

Trial by jury is a legal proceeding that originated in 12-13 century England. After a series of development and diffusion over the course of history, it has been adopted by several countries today, with the U.S. and Britain the most prominent. Still, the debate about abolishing the trial by jury has always been heated. Many people, such as Tomas Jefferson, regard jury trials as the foundation for democracy and justice because they can prevent the government’s abuse of power and have many other benefits. However, critics of trial by jury claim that it should be abolished due to jurors’ lack of professional knowledge and other flaws of this system. Such discussion about whether to abolish trial by jury is what the paper addresses on. In addition, this paper discusses trial by jury within its U.S. and Britain contexts and primarily focuses on the United States, since a large proportion of jury trials worldwide take place in America. After analyzing various primary and secondary sources from different time periods and contexts, this paper concludes that trial by jury should not be abolished since it can preserve democracy through checks and balances, instill citizens with civic virtues, and promote social justice. In addition to arguing trial by jury should not be abolished, this paper also examines certain criticisms of jury trials and rebuts these doubts.
The The Causes, Consequences, and Solutions for Political Polarization in the United States
Authors: Shaik Yousuf , Nwadei Tosen
Published: March 2023

Following highly publicized recent events such as the controversial 2020 presidential campaign, and the ensuing January 6th attacks on the Capitol, the condition of U.S. politics has undoubtedly been called into question. A major underlying cause behind this political instability is the phenomenon known as political polarization. This paper examines political polarization through three lenses; its causes, consequences, and finally, potential solutions. Firstly, we examine key areas which include the flaws within our current political system, the media relation to politics, and inherent psychological factors. Subsequently, we look at various impacts that occur as a result of each cause, namely the effects it has on the productivity of government institutions, the spread of misinformation, and our social relationships. In turn, this allows us to put the aforementioned events, as well as numerous other instances into perspective in order to shed light on the extent of the problem. Lastly, we look at both existing and proposed solutions to address the respective causes, considering innovations in the political system, highlighting ways to oppose misinformation, and exploring the practice of deliberative democracy. In considering the importance of a strong political backbone on everyday life, it is imperative to look at what can be done to combat political polarization, and in the process, attempt to restore the state of American politics.
Young Consumer Conformity and Identity Amplified by Social Media: Marketing Applications
Authors: Jain Anmol , Meyers Stuart
Published: March 2023

As social media and the internet become integral to producer-consumer relations, it is necessary to understand how to properly use these tools to maximize consumer acquisition. Companies and customers must be aware of how psychological factors influence consumer decision-making to improve marketing tactics. The author examines the need for belonging that young consumers face in the technological world and the conforming influences that impact young consumer decisions. The phrasing of product and sales promotions changes psychological reactions, thus emphasizing the need for careful phrasing during campaigns to convey the right messages. Young consumer identity formation is recognized as a variable in consumer behavior. Despite studies arguing that identity expression has a limited influence on consumer behavior, the author recommends companies apply it in business and marketing strategies. Two forms of social media marketing, word-of-mouth marketing and celebrity marketing, are compared by their appeal to young consumers’ belonging and identity needs. A discussion on marketing strategies implements results from the studies on the influence of conformity, identity, and social media on consumer behavior. The author applies word-of-mouth marketing successful qualities to the traditional celebrity/social media influencer marketing deals to incorporate psychological influences of trust and genuineness while maintaining the pressures to belong and form an identity. The paper finds that marketing strategies should incorporate identity expression and formation features, as well as taking the expressive elements and targeted narratives from word-of-mouth marketing and implementing them into celebrity endorsements to create an honest, genuine campaign that attracts young consumers.
Alzheimer's Disease and the Aging Brain: A Review of Current Etiology and Treatments
Authors: Hulbert Alexandra , Bazinet Julia , McClellan Justine
Published: March 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is currently one of the leading causes of death in the United States, and it continues to kill more patients every year. Although it is believed to have many different contributing causes, one of the main hypotheses is that unhealthy build-up of proteins in the brain blocks signaling and degrades neurons. Unfortunately, no current treatment is capable of preventing this build-up or reversing its effects. However, four treatment options exist to combat a different contributor to the disease's onset: acetylcholine inhibition. Cholinesterase inhibitors work by preventing the enzyme, cholinesterase, from breaking down acetylcholine, a chemical messenger with an important role in memory and learning that is more scarce in patients with Alzheimer’s. Memantine is used alongside cholinesterase inhibitors, and it prevents the N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptor from overactivating and causing neuron death. Though cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine are helpful medications for those suffering from AD, they do not stop progression of the disease or reverse the damage. This article will review the current research on AD and what it reveals about known causes and treatments.
SOLID STATE PHYSICS
Authors:   Dr. M.G.R Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, E Kavitha ,   Dr. M.G.R Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, C Andal , A Kaviarasi ,   Dr. M.G.R Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Published: March 2023

Solid state physics is an exciting field of study that has revolutionized the world of modern electronics and advanced technology. This book is intended for graduate engineers who seek to deepen their understanding of the fundamental concepts and principles of solid-state physics. The book is divided into five chapters, each covering a different aspect of solid-state physics. Chapter 1 introduces the basic concepts of crystal structures, including lattice structures, symmetry operations, and crystallographic planes and directions. Chapter 2 focuses on conductors and superconductors, including the electrical and thermal properties of metals, the Meissner effect, and the BCS theory of superconductivity. Chapter 3 delves into semiconductor physics, including band theory, carrier transport, and the physics of p-n junctions. Chapter 4 explores magnetic and dielectric physics, including the behavior of magnetic materials, ferroelectricity, and the physics of dielectric materials. Chapter 5 discusses the principles of optoelectronics, including the physics of light emission, absorption, and detection in semiconductors. Throughout the book, we strive to provide a clear and concise presentation of the key concepts of solid-state physics, with numerous examples and illustrations to aid in understanding. We also include a number of problems at the end of each chapter to help reinforce the concepts and encourage active learning. This book is intended to serve as a comprehensive resource for graduate engineers seeking to gain a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of solid-state physics. It is our hope that this book will be a valuable reference for students, researchers, and professionals working in the fields of materials science, electronics, and engineering. Keywords: crystal structure, lattice vibrations, electronic properties, band structure, semiconductors, dielectrics, magnetic properties, optical properties, phonons, Fermi surface, doping, conductivity, superconductivity, topological insulators, graphene, nanomaterials, spintronics, quantum computing.
Accuracy of Supervised Machine Learning in Predicting Depression, Anxiety and Stress Using Web-based Big Data: Preserving the Humanistic Intellect
Authors: Mohammad Aidid Edre , Musa Ramli
Published: March 2023

Introduction: One of the most useful tool to assess the extent of depression, anxiety and stress symptoms is the validated Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, 21 items (DASS-21). The availability of online mental health resource centre provides big data capable of machine learning analytics for early detection of mental health issues. However, prediction accuracy of these data using machine learning method remains elusive. Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted, using secondary data of respondents who answered an online DASS-21 questionnaire from an online resource center. Depression, anxiety and stress were measured using DASS21 as either the outcome or predictor, depending on the model. The model includes sociodemographic predictors such as gender, age, race, marital status, education level and occupational status. A feed-forward artificial neural network was constructed based on multilayer perceptron machine learning procedure using IBM SPSS version 23. Results: A total of 339,781 respondents data were obtained. The observed prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress was 39.9%, 48.5% and 13.4%, respectively. This resulted in 76.4% prediction accuracy for depression, 76.3% accuracy for anxiety and 87.4% prediction accuracy for stress. Stress and anxiety were the most important factors contributing to the disease model. Conclusion: The prediction models have high accuracy to predict the true observed depression, anxiety and stress prevalence. The clinical relevance of these prediction models still needs the human intellect judgment based on Maqasid al-Shariah principles. Machine learning therefore should not be abused but to help in decision-making towards early detection and prompt treatment.
An Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Video Gaming and the Relationship with Depression among University Students
Authors: Salleh Anisa , Abdul Ghani Radiah
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Video games which are electronic games played on a video screen, has the potential to be one of the leading causes of depression among youth. Since there are only few studies on the issue, this study identified the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on the effects of video gaming on depression among International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) students and the correlation between them. Methods: A self-developed questionnaire, with four sections on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude and practice on depression and video games, was used to do a cross-sectional survey among 140 IIUM students. The level of KAP was evaluated using a descriptive frequency table. Pearson correlation test was used to determine the correlation. Results: The majority of the respondents had moderate level of knowledge (56.4%) and attitude (57.1%). For practice scores, the majority portrayed a poor level of it (73.6%). Only knowledge and attitude scores showed positive correlation (r = 0.440). Conclusion: This study showed that increasing knowledge on factors of excessive video gaming habits and factors that increases the risk for development of depression can be helpful in tackling the rising rate of depression among the youth in Malaysia.
The Efficacy and Durability of Three Desensitising Agents for Management of Hypersensitive Teeth: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Wan Abd. Manan Wan Nor Hayati , Izaham Fithriah , Ahmad Khushaimi Khairunnisa’ , Husain Juzaily
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Dentine hypersensitivity (DH) is a brief and acute pain produced when dentine is subjected to various stimuli. The treatment for DH has been classified by mode of delivery as at- home and in-office therapy. It was proven that desensitising agents have the capacity for occluding dentinal tubules. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and durability of desensitising agents for management of DH. Methods: Twelve non-carious extracted human permanent premolars were sectioned into dentine layer. The dentine disc specimens were divided into four groups. Each group were applied with 8% arginine-calcium toothpaste, 0.24% sodium fluoride toothpaste, 5% potassium nitrate toothpaste and distilled water respectively. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) is used to evaluate the magnitude changes of dentinal tubules post treatment with the desensitising toothpastes in terms of the efficacy and durability at day one, week one and week three after application. The data will be analyzed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software (version 19.0). Results: All toothpastes demonstrated significant dentinal tubule occlusions. However, 8% arginine-calcium toothpaste showed the greatest percentage of occlusion at day one followed by potassium nitrate toothpaste and sodium fluoride toothpaste. After three weeks, 8% arginine-calcium toothpaste remained the greatest percentage of dentinal tubules occlusion Conclusion: The result revealed that 8% arginine-calcium toothpaste is the most efficient and has longer durability among the other toothpaste. Therefore, with this finding it could help the patient for selection of desensitising toothpaste in managing the DH.
Preliminary Findings on Urinary Incontinence Screening Among Childbearing Women Attending Maternal and Child Health Clinic in Kuantan
Authors: Muda Siti Mariam , Sutaji Umi Maisarah , Mustapa Kamal Basha Muzaitul Akma , Hasan Haliza , Nusee Zalina
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Urinary incontinence is common among childbearing women that affect quality of life and the screening should be performed as early as possible to prevent further complication in later life. Thus, this study was conducted to assess the level of knowledge and practice of UI screening and its associated factors among childbearing women. Methods: A cross-sectional study using convenience sampling method was carried out among 113 childbearing women attending selected Maternal and Child Health Clinic in Kuantan. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to participants from February 2020 to April 2020. A structured validated Malay version questions towards urinary incontinence screening were used consisting of 20 items on knowledge, 11 items on attitude and 12 items on practices. Results: The response rate for this study was 71% and 93.8% of participants were Malay. Majority of childbearing women, 92%, showed lack of knowledge on urinary incontinence and 91.1% of them never do the screening. Only 39.8% of childbearing women have positive attitude towards the urinary incontinence screening. One Way Anova test shows no association between education level and knowledge (p=0.074) and no association between parity and severity (p=0.843). However, Independent t-test shows a statistical difference between severity of urinary incontinence and screening practice (p=0.036). Conclusion: The knowledge, attitude and practice of urinary incontinence screening need to be enhanced among childbearing women. Health education and awareness campaign should be done regularly to encourage childbearing women to do the screening and discuss the consequence of urinary incontinence in future with health care providers.
Transitioning into Independent Adult Life: A Phenomenological Study of Teenagers at a Shelter Home
Authors: Mohd Munir Nur Syuhada , Rais Haniza
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Studies on adolescents ageing out of shelter homes in Malaysia were scarce. This research aimed to explore the phenomenological experiences of the teenagers in their preparation to transition out from the shelter home upon reaching the age of 18 years towards the independent living phase. Method: This qualitative research employed a purposive sampling design that used focus group discussion as the main source for data collection. Thematic analysis was selected for the analysis of data to generate themes and sub-themes gathered from significant phrases shared from the participant’s responses in the group discussion. Five participants who met the criteria of inclusion were recruited for the focus group discussion. Results: The findings presented the challenges faced by the participants in preparing for their journey toward independent living. Among the issues shared were relationships, lacking skills and competencies, and mixed feelings faced by the participants as part of the overall concerns in the transition process. Conclusion: The findings of this research will hopefully shed light on the administration of shelter home institutions and policymakers for improvement of the services, facilities, and interventions for teenagers in helping them transition through emerging adulthood towards independent living.
Efficacy and Safety of Second-generation Antipsychotics in Schizophrenia Pharmacotherapy: A Comparative Narrative Review
Authors: Elnaem Mohamed Hassan
Published: March 2023

Antipsychotic medications are essential in schizophrenia pharmacotherapy, with notable differences in efficacy and safety. This review aims to discuss and compare the differences in efficacy and safety among various second-generation antipsychotic drugs (SGAs). A narrative review was conducted involving the English-based published literature in three scientific databases between 2000 and January 2021: Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed. Clozapine is widely considered an effective therapy option in cases of resistance. Maintenance of schizophrenia treatment with paliperidone palmitate was effective and resulted in a longer duration between relapses. The risk of weight gain and diabetes mellitus was increased significantly with clozapine and olanzapine. Risperidone caused neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) and significantly elevated prolactin levels. The extent of safety concerns reported varied by study design. While there were minor differences in the dose-dependent role of SGAs in acute episode treatment, there were significant differences in the type and intensity of side effects, and hence adherence determinants.
Diabetes Quality of Life Among Elderly Diabetic Patients and Its Associations
Authors: Shalihin Mohd Shaiful Ehsan , Fauzi Abdullah , Zulkifli Nurul Afiqah , Abdul Aziz Azrul Aziz , Md Aris Mohd Aznan , Omar Ahmad Marzuki , Edre Mohammad Aidid
Published: March 2023

Introduction: The number of elderly diabetes patients is rising all over the world. Therefore, the quality of life of older people as well as the factors that influence it are aimed to be evaluated in this study. Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 269 senior diabetes patients from government health clinic in Kuantan, Pahang. Their sociodemographic information was gathered, and the Diabetes Quality of Life Instrument (DQoL) was used to assess their quality of life. The connection between DQoL domains and covariates was determined by Mann-Whitney U test and the Kruskal-Wallis test. Linear regression analysis was used to find the predictors. Results: : The majority of patients in the B40 groups had at least a primary level of education (52.2%) and a source of income (97.3%).The majority of the clinics (61.3 %) were located in rural areas and did not have a family medicine specialist on staff (77.7 %). The majority of the patients had uncontrolled diabetes (71.7%), uncontrolled blood pressure (63.2%), uncontrolled cholesterol levels (74.0%), and abnormal abdominal circumferences (84.8%). Clinic location, diabetes control status, and old age were statistically significant in predicting the quality of life. Conclusion: Despite the perception of a significant risk of problems, this study found that decreasing the HbA1c goal further improved the quality of life of older patients. Those clinic headed by family medicine specialist gave the highest degree of patient quality of life. As a result, additional primary care physicians should be trained, as well as local treatment measures.
“I Need Help”: A Study of Spiritual Distress Among People Diagnosed With Bipolar Disorder in Malaysia
Authors: Mohamad Shariff Nurasikin , Wright Nicola , Crawford Paul
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Little is known about spiritual distress in people with bipolar disorder, inclined to maladaptive coping. Given the contextual influence of religion on Malaysians, this study explores the phenomenon of spiritual despair and recovery, as experienced by a group of people with bipolar disorder. Method: A qualitative one-to-one interview was conducted on 25 participants of multi-religious background and diagnosed with bipolar disorder recruited from two psychiatric clinics in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. All interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim. The interview data were analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Results: This paper presents the theme of ‘Restoring hope, meaning, and purpose’ with three subthemes; 1) experiencing spiritual despair, 2) engaging in spiritual meaning-making, and 3) orienting the spiritual life. The finding captured the participants’ experience of having despair in God over the ‘fated experience’ (takdir) and they abandoned religious practice during the period. However, participant narratives also indicate the possibility that their spiritual despair can be mitigated, endured, or transformed through the support of family members. The participants also highly recommended that spirituality may be combined with medical interventions, such as medication prescribed by their psychiatrist. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of supportive families in advancing towards religious-spiritual pathways and the advantages of medical interventions in controlling bipolar symptoms during their spiritual despair. This study favours extending the role of mental health services in providing sessions for the users to voice out their spiritual concerns.
Muslim Dietitian-patient Spiritual Conversations and Its’ Challenges: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Afandi Aflah , Mohamad Hasbullah , Mohd Abu Bakar Wan Azdie , Mamat Nik Mazlan
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Spirituality is essential in patient care. In dietetics, the patient-centred care approach has a significant role in promoting caring relationships with the patients in dietary counselling. While integrating spirituality in clinical practice influences patients’ ability to cope with illness, there is a paucity of research on spirituality in dietetics. This study aimed to discover the proportion of Muslim dietitians who inquired about patients’ spiritual needs and its association with socio-demographic factors, identify selected conversations on spiritual concern and its challenges. Method: This cross-sectional study adopted selected items from The International NERSH-Cohort questionnaire. A new semi-structured question on responses to patients’ spiritual concerns was also evaluated (4 items; alpha=.79). Data were gathered through an online survey and analysed using descriptive analysis and Pearson chi-square.Results: Out of ninety-eight respondents, only 3% reported always making an attempt to inquire about patients’ spiritual needs, whereas 44% had never made such an inquiry. The duration of practising dietetics was not associated with inquiring spiritual needs practices. When the Muslim patients brought up a discussion on spiritual concern, 38% of the Muslim dietitians had responded that only Allah has the power to heal and grant happiness. This study highlights that Muslim dietitians’ most common obstacles to addressing spiritual concerns during dietary counselling were the fear of offending the patients and insufficient knowledge/training. Conclusion: There are ways for Muslim dietitians to engage in spiritual conversations during dietary counselling, but the existing challenges indicate a calling for formal training.