bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The dark side of competition in developing economies: Evidence from closely held SMEs
Authors: Javadi Siamak , Kroll Mark , Liu Yu
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates how product market competition affects the performance of closely held small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in developing economies. In contrast to prior findings that focus on large publicly traded companies in developed economies, we find that market competition has a negative effect on firm performance. Our findings are robust to different measures of competition and firm performance and survive after addressing endogeneity issues. We provide evidence that the adverse effect of competition is channeled through increased corruption. Our findings further suggest that firms respond to competition by attempting to acquire more financial resources and government support, adopt quality improvement and cost reduction policies. The adverse effect of competition is especially strong for smaller firms.
The effectiveness of garlic extracts on biogenic amine formation by foodborne pathogens and fish spoilage bacteria
Authors: Yazgan Hatice , Kuley Esmeray , Ozogul Yesim , Ozogul Fatih , Bartkiene Elena , Rocha João Miguel
Published: July 2024

Impacts of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of garlic were investigated in suppressing bacterial growth and biogenic amine (BA) formation by selected foodborne pathogens (Candida albicans, Salmonella paratyphi A, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) and fish spoilage bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis, Photobacterium damselae and Pseudomonas luteola). The spread‐plate method was used to monitor bacterial growth in histidine decarboxylase broth (HDB), whereas the rapid high‐performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method was used for BA analysis. Bacterial growth and their ammonia and BA production were monitored using HDB. The results showed that bacterial growth on HDB was in the range from 9.13, for P. luteola, to 9.54 log CFU (colony‐forming units) mL−1, for S. aureus and C. albicans. The presence of garlic extracts in HDB resulted considerably in lowering bacterial growth and BA formation (P < 0.05). The highest inhibitory activities of ethanolic and water garlic extracts were obtained for Gram‐positive S. aureus with 1.4 and 1.5 logarithmic reduction on bacterial growth, followed by Gram‐negative Salmonella Paratyphi A and E. coli. Application of garlic extracts, mainly ethanolic ones, showed a significant inhibitory effect on bacterial ammonia production, with 4‐100‐fold lower ammonia accumulation (P < 0.05). Bacteria produced all tested BAs, mainly dopamine, agmatine and tryptamine. The highest levels of histamine and tyramine (61.99 and 36.45 mg L−1) were produced by S. aureus. In the presence of aqueous or ethanolic garlic extracts, putrescine production by E. faecalis was around 110‐fold lower than that of the control group. Results revealed that both garlic extracts are potent antimicrobials that can control the growth of foodborne pathogens and their harmful BA formation.
Nutritional retention and browning minimisation in dehydrated onion slices through potassium metabisulphite and sodium chloride pre‐treatments
Authors: Ahamad Sajeel , Sagar Vidya Ram , Asrey Ram , Islam Sabina , Tomar B. S. , Vinod B. R. , Menaka M. , Kumar Ajeet
Published: July 2024

The global demand for dehydrated onion is on the rise, driven by the increasing consumer preference for ready‐to‐eat convenience foods. This study focused on enhancing the quality and functional properties of dehydrated onion slices (cv. Pusa Shobha) through different pre‐treatment and drying conditions. Fresh onion slices were subjected to pre‐treatment using NaCl (3%, 5% and 7%) and KMS (0.3%, 0.5% and 0.7%) solutions for 10 min, followed by tray drying at 50 °C, 60 °C and 70 °C temperatures for varying durations of 14, 12 and 10 h, respectively. Based on physicochemical and functional properties, onion slices pretreated with 5% NaCl + 0.5% KMS and dehydrated at 60 °C for 12 h retained higher bioactive compounds like total phenols (166.32 mg GAE 100 g−1 DW), total flavonoids (28.94 mg QE g−1 DW), ascorbic acid (12.45 mg 100 g−1 DW), quercetin (172.88 μg g−1 DW) and total antioxidant activity (24.59 μmol TE g−1 DW). Additionally, it maintained superior sensory acceptability with higher pungency (7.15 μmol g−1 DW), dehydration ratio (9.25%), rehydration ratio (5.20%), lower non‐enzymatic browning (0.36) and moisture content (5.75%). Hence, the optimised treatment of ‘Pusa Shobha’ slices with 5% NaCl + 0.5% KMS, followed by dehydration at 60 °C for 12 h, yields dehydrated onion slices with superior bioactive compounds, sensory acceptability, and enhanced functional properties. The findings of his research offer valuable technology for the food industry, providing a practical and efficient method to produce high‐quality dehydrated onion slices.
Flexible hollow Ni/Al2O3 fibers: A sustainable and reusable catalyst for efficient dry reforming of methane
Authors: Yan Huihui , Wang Kun , Zhao Liping , Zhang Peng , Chen Han , Liu Jing , Gao Lian
Published: July 2024

A new type of Ni/Al2O3 self‐supporting catalysts, with high specific surface area, was fabricated by blow‐spinning technology. These Ni/Al2O3 self‐supporting catalysts are hollow flexible fibers and were utilized for the dry reforming of methane. The Ni/Al2O3 catalysts exhibited exceptional catalytic performance, maintaining their activity for over 150‐h at a high temperature of 800°C. The Ni nanoparticles disputed on the hollow fibers demonstrated remarkable resistance to sintering and coking during high‐temperature catalysis. This was a noteworthy feature, as sintering and coking are common challenges faced by catalysts during high‐temperature reactions. Furthermore, the catalysts retained its activity even after a rigorous 150‐h test at 800°C, indicating its durability and stability. Importantly, the Ni/Al2O3 self‐supporting could be successfully reactivated after the test, further highlighting its reusable nature. This study offers promising new avenues for the development of high‐temperature, self‐supporting, and reactivatable catalysts.
The recognition and the initial reaction to children's signals after experiencing maltreatment during childhood
Authors: Bérubé Annie , Turgeon Jessica , Tsur Noga , Talmon Anat
Published: July 2024

Maltreatment during childhood has many long‐lasting effects. Victims often become parents who experience parenting difficulties, therefore contributing to the intergenerational cycle of maltreatment. This paper highlights the consequences of severe trauma during childhood on two processes critical for a sensitive response, namely the recognition of and the initial reaction to emotional signals. We argue that most interventions focus on the observed parental response to children's behaviors or on parental interpretation of children's signals, that is, the attribution of meaning or intent to the signal. Interventions should better integrate research indicating that a history of childhood maltreatment could impair the capacity to correctly identify the emotion and the immediate reaction to these signals. By failing to acknowledge these long‐lasting consequences of childhood maltreatment, scholars and practitioners might never achieve true success in intervening with families in the hope of breaking the intergenerational cycle of maltreatment.
Annexin A5 is a novel prognostic biomarker in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Ting , Zhang Xiaoxin , Song Yuxian , Ding Liang , Huang Xiaofeng , Zhang Lei , Ye Chuanjin , Yang Yan , Celentano Antonio , Hu Qingang , Ni Yanhong
Published: July 2024

Background

ANXA5, a notable tumor marker, displays irregular expression in diverse solid cancers, and links to local recurrence and metastasis rates. We aimed study the expression of ANXA5 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and its diagnostic and prognostic values.

Methods

520 head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients in TCGA database and 124 OSCC patients in Nanjing stomatology hospital were enrolled in our study. Immunohistochemical analyses were performed using ANXA5 antibodies. Chi‐square test was used to analyze the clinicopathological features. Survival rates were determined using the Kaplan–Meier method and log‐rank test.

Results

Our results showed significantly elevated ANXA5 at the gene and protein levels in HNSCC and OSCC compared to non‐tumor tissues. Histopathologically, ANXA5 was broadly present in OSCC tumor cells and fibroblast‐like cells but absent in tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes, particularly at the invasive tumor front. Patients exhibiting high ANXA5 expression in these cells demonstrated poor differentiation, aggressive invasion patterns, and heightened lymph node metastasis risk, contributing to poorer postoperative outcomes. Remarkably, ANXA5 in fibroblast‐like cells emerged as an independent risk factor impacting survival in OSCC patients. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) highlighted ANXA5's involvement in key pathways like epithelial‐mesenchymal transformation (EMT), TGF‐beta signaling, and hypoxia, which correlated with adverse clinical outcomes in OSCC.

Conclusion

ANXA5 emerges as a significant prognostic biomarker for OSCC, potentially influencing its metastasis via the EMT pathway.
Understanding the role of temperature in seasonal timing: Effects on behavioural, physiological and molecular phenotypes
Authors: Sur Sayantan , Sharma Aakansha
Published: July 2024

Organisms adapt to daily and seasonal environmental changes to maximise their metabolic and reproductive fitness. For seasonally breeding animals, photoperiod is considered the most robust cue to drive these changes. It, however, does not explain the interannual variations in different seasonal phenotypes. Several studies have repeatedly shown the influence of ambient temperature on the timing of different seasonal physiologies including the timing of migration, reproduction and its associated behaviours, etc. In the present review, we have discussed the effects of changes in ambient temperature on different seasonal events in endotherms with a focus on migratory birds as they have evolved to draw benefits from distinct but largely predictable seasonal patterns of natural resources. We have further discussed the physiological and molecular mechanisms by which temperature affects seasonal timings. The primary brain area involved in detecting temperature changes is the hypothalamic preoptic area. This area receives thermal inputs via sensory neurons in the peripheral ganglia that measure changes in thermoregulatory tissues such as the skin and spinal cord. For the input signals, several thermal sensory TRP (transient receptor potential ion channels) channels have been identified across different classes of vertebrates. These channels are activated at specific thermal ranges. Once perceived, this information should activate an effector function. However, the link between temperature sensation and the effector pathways is not properly understood yet. Here, we have summarised the available information that may help us understand how temperature information is translated into seasonal timing.
Effects of ondansetron on symptoms during a gastric emptying study and enteral lipid challenge and on daily symptoms in diabetic gastroenteropathy
Authors: Varma Revati , Chakraborty Subhankar C. , Ramu Shivabalan Kathavarayan , Burton Duane D. , Deb Brototo , Ryks Michael D. , Feuerhak Kelly J. , Bailey Kent R. , Bharucha Adil E.
Published: July 2024

Background

This study compared the effects of ondansetron and placebo in patients with diabetes mellitus and symptoms of dyspepsia (diabetic gastroenteropathy [DGE]).

Methods

We performed a randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study of ondansetron tablets (8 mg) three times daily for 4 weeks in DGE patients. Symptoms were assessed with the Gastroparesis Cardinal Symptom Index daily diaries. Gastric emptying (GE) of solids (scintigraphy) and duodenal lipid infusions (300 kcal over 2 h) were each assessed twice, with placebo and ondansetron. Drug effects on GE, symptoms during the GE study and during lipid infusion, and daily symptoms were analyzed.

Key Results

Of 41 patients, 37 completed both GE studies and one completed 1; 31 completed both lipid infusions and four only placebo; and all 35 randomized patients completed 4 weeks of treatment. Compared to placebo, ondansetron reduced the severity of fullness (p = 0.02) and belching (p = 0.049) during lipid infusion but did not affect GE T1/2. Both ondansetron and placebo improved daily symptoms versus the baseline period (p < 0.05), but the differences were not significant. In the analysis of covariance of daily symptoms during the treatment period, the interaction term between treatment and the acute effect of ondansetron on symptoms during lipid challenge was significant (p = .024).

Conclusions & Inferences

Ondansetron significantly reduced fullness during enteral lipid infusion in patients with DGE. Overall, ondansetron did not improve daily symptoms versus placebo. But patients in whom ondansetron improved symptoms during enteral lipid challenge were perhaps more likely to experience symptom relief during daily treatment.
Personal and Social Worries Associated with the Likelihood of Having Children
Authors: Golovina Kateryna , Jokela Markus
Published: July 2024

Previous studies showed that worries about the economic situation and job security are associated with childbearing, but evidence is scarce on whether worries about other personal and social issues are also related to childbearing. Drawing on the German Socio‐Economic Panel Study, this study examined the relationship between worries about various personal and social issues and the likelihood of having children. Based on exploratory factor analysis, worries were categorized into social/environment and economy/safety factors. Cox regression models showed that social/environment worries were associated with a decreased likelihood of having children, even after adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, personality traits, and political attitudes. Among specific worries, concerns about environmental protection, climate change, personal health, peace, immigration to Germany, and hostility toward immigrants were linked to a decreased likelihood of having children. Notably, worries about the economy in general were strongly associated with a reduced probability of becoming a parent among childless individuals, with a 25 percent lower likelihood for those highly worried about it. Similarly, childless individuals highly worried about climate change exhibit a 16 percent lower likelihood of parenthood. Our findings highlight the role of other worries in childbearing in addition to economic uncertainty and suggest that fertility decreases when the future is perceived as uncertain.
Intensity and associated factors of home health care service needs among elderly patients with chronic diseases in the community: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Li Hang , Liu Suzhen , Zhou Luling
Published: July 2024

Aim and Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the intensity of needs for home health care services (HHCs) among elderly patients with chronic diseases and to identify the associated factors.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted in Wuhou District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, from April to November 2021.

Methods

Convenient sampling was used to screen elderly patients with chronic diseases managed by Yulin Community Health Service Center. The questionnaires included general information and the Chinese version of the Community Healthy Intensity Rating Scale were completed according to patients’ conditions. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression.

Results

A total of 371 patients (10.40%) completed the survey. The mean age of the elderly patients was 84.04 years (SD = 7.07); these patients suffered from 1 to 7 kinds of chronic diseases, and the most common were hypertension (78.98%) and diabetes (40.97%). The need intensity of patients for HHCs was moderate (41.51%) or severe (58.49%). For each additional chronic disease that patients suffered from, the need intensity increases by 1.289 times (OR = 1.289; 95% CI: 1.055–1.575, p = .013); in additional, those aged more than 90 years, with a personal monthly income less than 2500 yuan ($387.00), with a poor health current status, and with only basic medical insurance presented greater need intensity (p < .05).

Conclusion

Our data analysis revealed that economic status, insurance condition, poor health status, and multiple comorbidities may be the most common factors associated with the need intensity for HHCs. These characteristics may help medical staff to identify and help those with urgent health problems.
Optimization of Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction Condition for Total Phenolic Compounds from Citrus Hystrix Peel
Authors: Ong Chun Keat  , Wan Azelee Nur Izyan , Zainan Nur Hidayah
Published: July 2024

This study aims to optimize the extraction conditions of Ultrasonic-Assisted Extraction (UAE) on the extraction of phenolic compound and antioxidant activity of Citrus Hystrix (C. Hystrix) peel. The experimental design was carried out using Face Centered Central Composite Design. A total of 20 sets of different combination experiment designs were generated from 3 parameters; temperature (30-50°C), time (20-40 min), and raw material to the solvent ratio (1:30-1:70).  The highest yield of total phenolic compounds was 4.36 mg/g with the optimize extraction condition of , 30 min extraction time and 1:50 raw material to the solvent ratio. The result of this study indicates that the phenolic compounds extracted from C. Hystrix peel could have the potential to be used for pharmaceutical and food applications.
Screening of Different Fungi Strains Gongronella sp. WICC F60 and Cordyceps sp. WICC F61 for Degradation of Low-Density Polyethylene
Authors: Dailin Daniel Joe , Azzahra Sitty Zhaqia , Rithwan Fahim , Hanapi Siti Zulaiha , Rashidi Ahmad Ramli , Ramli Solleh , Abdul Manas Nor Hasmaliana , El Enshasy Hesham
Published: July 2024

Over the past decade, polyethylene (PE) products have become increasingly important in several industries. Their biggest concerns are plastic material degradation resistance and environmental longevity. Therefore, this study aims to find fungi that are capable of degrading low-density polyethylene (LDPE) efficiently. This study uses Gongronella sp. WICC F60, and Cordyceps sp., WICC F61. The fungi were grown on potato dextrose agar for 30 days. Following that, fungal colonies were placed in potato dextrose broth for incubation. The LDPE sample was then cultured with the fungal strain in a minimum salt medium with a 10% inoculum. After 30 days of biodegradation testing, the analysis was done. These studies measured LDPE sample weight loss, pH, and fungal biomass. It was observed that the LDPE sample weight loss increased with time until the end of inclubation. Gongronella sp. WICC F60 and Cordyceps sp. WICC F61 were able to degrade LDPE plastic. Both fungi show an increase in LDPE weight loss. However, Cordyceps sp. WICC F61 shows more efficiency in LDPE degradation compared to Gongronella sp. WICC F60. The LDPE weight loss using Gongronella sp. WICC F60 was 1.07%, which is lower than Gongronella sp. WICC F60's LDPE weight reduction of 5.56%.
The Development of Edible Straw from Apple and Durian Peel
Authors: Mong Yi Tong , Salleh Eraricar
Published: July 2024

Over the past few decades, there has been a surge in the demand for plastic utensils, especially plastic straw which contribute to consumption of toxic chemicals. The use of plastic straws has led to plastic pollution crisis due to their non-biodegradability and lengthy decomposition periods. Currently, various kinds of edible straw have been developed to replace traditional plastic straw to reduce the environmental pollution, however the edible straw usually has weak structural integrity and becomes soggy when immersed in beverages. The purpose of this study is to develop the production of edible straw from fruit peel, such as apple and durian peel skin and investigate the physicochemical characteristics of the edible straw at different temperatures. The manufacturing process of edible straw using fruit peel can be categorized into 3 main steps, including preparation of fruit peel paste using fruit peel and distilled water at weight ratio 1:0.3, preparation of edible film as well as drying and demoulding of edible straw. Then, a series of tests including water absorption test, heat resistance test and swelling ratio test have been conducted to investigate the functionality of the edible straw in different kinds of beverages, including hot and cold liquids at temperature ranges from 5 °C to 65 °C. The observation suggests that durian peel edible straw has higher water absorption capability, heat resistance and swelling ratio when soaked in liquids compared to apple peel edible straw. Both the apple and durian peel edible straw are best for use at beverage temperature within 25 °C. Durian peel edible straw has better performance as it can be used for beverage temperature up until 65 °C while only 45 °C for apple peel edible straw.
The Spatial Distribution of Sexual Harassment Sentiment in Twitter
Authors: Mohd Shariff Nur Shafiqah , Noor Azmy Suzanna , Tarmidi Zakri , Rusli Noradila
Published: July 2024

In a cultural landscape where discussions about sexual harassment are often considered taboo, this study leverages social media as a platform for the anonymous sharing of experiences related to sexual harassment in Asia. By focusing on Kuala Lumpur, we applied grid-based data mining to analyze the spatial distribution of tweets related to sexual harassment, revealing significant distribution patterns. Moreover, this study utilized two advanced sentiment analysis methods: the Natural Language Toolkit (NLTK) and Azure Machine Learning (AML), to evaluate the polarity of sentiments expressed in these tweets. The findings demonstrate a notable variance in sentiment analysis results between NLTK and AML, with NLTK classifying a majority of tweets as neutral (63.7%), while AML identified a predominant positive sentiment (70%). This discrepancy highlights the complexities of sentiment analysis and the importance of selecting appropriate tools for specific research contexts. In examining the spatial distribution, it becomes apparent that tweets collected through the identified keywords are dispersed within the boundaries of Kuala Lumpur. However, there is a notable concentration in specific areas, particularly evident in the hotspot encompassing Taman Desa and Pantai Dalam. Understanding the sentiment's location enables us to delve deeper into the pronounced cluster of tweets, examining potential correlations with surrounding social and moral issues. This insight empowers us to address the issue through various means, including the implementation of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design and fostering community-based initiatives.
The challenges of using blockchain technology for medical data in public hospitals in Malaysia
Authors: Sahalan Muhammad Izdihar , Yusof Fathi , Abas Hafiza
Published: July 2024

The management and ownership of medical data will affect the future of decentralised healthcare data-sharing applications. Future research projects examining the use of blockchain technology to store medical data in governmental organisations in Malaysia will need to address governance concerns and consider how to regulate blockchain to achieve these objectives. This paper examines the present governance issues in the healthcare industry, identifies areas requiring further research, and outlines the most crucial factors for blockchain applications to function. This paper presents a systematic literature review that investigates the challenges associated with implementing blockchain applications for medical data in public hospitals in Malaysia. As a result of a systematic screening procedure, 53 primary studies were included in the final analysis, which discovered eleven significant issues individually. The analysis of eleven issues, including social, interoperability, and security concerns, presents significant challenges and solutions for blockchain applications for medical data. The systematic literature review provides insight into the current state of blockchain implementation in Malaysian public hospitals and offers helpful recommendations for addressing the identified challenges. Policymakers, hospital administrators, and blockchain technology developers can use these findings to create practices that facilitate the successful integration and implementation of blockchain applications in Malaysian public hospitals.
UI and UX Redesign for COVID-19 Response Mobile Application Using Usability ISO Model and Testing Tools
Authors: Kamil Abdullah , Hassan Hasnani , Hassan Haslin , Jamaluddin Robiatul A'dawiah , Polohan Nadan Jaya Malathy
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to analyse the user-friendliness of the COVID-19 Response Mobile Application, namely PeduliLindungi. 107 respondents answered the questionnaire and concluded that the usability of the current version is 68%, which is categorised as ‘terrible' on the system usability scale, indicating that the main concern of users is the accessibility of the application. The main objective is to redesign the UI and UX of the PeduliLindungi mobile application to improve the usability and accessibility of the application. The quantitative method was used as a research tool to obtain the responses of PeduliLindungi users and measure the attributes of the application based on the ISO 9241-11 metrics: Efficiency, Effectiveness and Satisfaction. A revised version of the PeduliLindungi mobile application received a 70% usability rating and was rated "good" on the system usability scale. The study also identified specific usability characteristics from the ISO usability model widely used in usability engineering. A guide was created for developers to include UX considerations in the development of mobile applications
A Review: Application of Big Data Analytics in Airlines Industry
Authors: Mohd Hanif Atikah Hanisah , Jaafar Abdul Ghafar
Published: July 2024

Technological advancements have led to the generation of massive amounts of data across industries, including the airline sector. Leveraging big data analytics allows valuable insights to be derived from these vast datasets. A total of twenty research papers were reviewed, and electronic databases such as Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Google Scholars, and IEEE Xplore were utilized to gather relevant studies. The search keywords included "big data analytics," "airlines industry," "data mining," "predictive analytics," and "machine learning." The findings highlight the diverse application areas of Big Data Analytics (BDA) in the airline industry, including airline operation and optimization, service quality and customer satisfaction, risk management and safety, and aircraft maintenance. The review also identifies key challenges associated with BDA implementation in the airline industry: data integration, regulatory compliance, and data privacy and security concerns. Overall, this review paper provides valuable insights into the application of BDA in the airline industry and the associated challenges. It contributes to the existing knowledge base and offers a foundation for future research and practical implementations in this domain.
A PRISMA Review on Methods and Challenges in Learning Computer Maintenance Using Augmented Reality Technology
Authors: Mee Mee Alainmar  , Megat Norziha , Nurazean Maarof  , Nurulhuda Firdaus Azmi  , Rasimah Che Mohd Yusop  , Syed Ardi Syed Yahya Kamal  , Wan Azlan Wan Hassan
Published: July 2024

Augmented reality technology which is currently used in mobile phones is convenient for students and educational institutions because it provides flexibility and real-time learning environments. The use of AR applications in higher education learning has rapidly progressed. In view of this, this study investigates the design aspects of augmented reality in computer maintenance learning. In designing augmented reality-driven mobile applications, there are several gaps discovered in the interface components and relevant design principles. This study addresses the methods and challenges regarding the design of augmented reality mobile applications. A preliminary search and selection process using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analysis (PRISMA) has been conducted and identified 782 articles with 57 full texts assessed for the reviewing eligibility. The results may help to develop the visual aspects of augmented reality systems in prototypes more effectively for computer maintenance courses in future.
Proposed Research Model for Mobile Digital Wallet Adoption Among Consumer In Malaysia
Authors: Darail Mohd Abdul Kadir , Megat Mohd Zainuddin Norziha , Maarop Nurazean , Bani Nurul Aini , Johari Sabariah
Published: July 2024

Digital wallets are considered as a game changer because they allow digital financial inclusion among various levels of society. However, the use of digital wallet among Malaysians is low compared to other countries. A pre-liminary study was conducted to identify the issue related to digital wallets in rural areas. Besides, a literature review was conducted to determine the factors and barriers that may influence behavioral intention of consumers in Malaysia to adopt digital wallet. Findings from the pre-liminary study were discussed and a conceptual model that consisted of some constructs from the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2, and Innovation Resistance Theory and Trust was proposed to examine the drivers and barriers towards the adoption of digital wallet. Expected results from this study would provide insights on the perception on digital wallet among Malaysians in rural and urban areas.
E-Commerce Customer Churn Prediction for the Marketplace in Malaysia
Authors: Tang Hui Ying , Ya’acob Suraya
Published: July 2024

Customer churn, or the loss of customers, is a significant challenge for e-commerce businesses, as it leads to revenue loss and increased marketing costs. Most online marketplaces have insufficient awareness of the e-commerce customer churn rate that can be analysed before conducting customer retention activities or management. It is crucial for an online marketplace to handle customer churn as it is more high-value to manage existing customers than to have new customers on the platform. This study uses machine learning algorithms to predict e-commerce customer churn. This project has three (3) goals that must be met, which include identifying the attributes with high association to e-commerce customer churn for the online marketplace in Malaysia, constructing e-commerce customer churn prediction model with the important attributes by using the machine learning techniques, and evaluating and comparing the performance of the e-commerce customer churn prediction models using evaluation metrics. The machine learning techniques chosen based on the literature review are Decision Tree (DT), Random Forest (RF), Naïve Bayes (NB), Logistics Regression (LR), K-Nearest Neighbours (KNN), and eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGB). The dataset involved in the project was compiled from a leading e-commerce platform in Malaysia – online marketplace ABC, and it contains customer demographic information, purchase history etc. The dataset and model will use Python as the analytics tool and extended CRISP-DM with TDSP as the methodology. There will be four (4) evaluation metrics to compare and evaluate the performance of the prediction models, including accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. The desired outcome will show that machine learning can predict Malaysian e-commerce customer churn. This study can help Malaysian e-commerce companies identify at-risk customers and retain them. Additionally, this study can inform e-commerce customer churn prediction research.
Development of Prediction Model for Heart Disease by Combining Clustering and Classification Techniques
Authors: Seelan Reenah K Uthama , Narayana Samy Ganthan , Selvananthan Mahiswaran , Maarop Nurazean , Perumal Sundresan , Keat Jin David Lau
Published: July 2024

The concerning trends in deaths related to heart disease some measures need to be in place to ensure early treatment and diagnosis of the disease. Therefore, one of the way can be done is by leveraging the abundance of medical data available. Advancement in technology today has improved the availability and accessibility huge amounts of valuable data and it only makes sense for us to explore the opportunities that lie in the data that could possibly save lives and reduce costs. Thu, this study aims to do that with the help of classification and clustering data mining techniques to predict heart disease based on some key indicators of the disease. Studies show that applying classifiers on clustered data can improve the performance of algorithms. Hence, this method will be explored in this study using the Naïve Bayes, Decision Tree and Random Forest classifiers together with both K-Means Clustering and Density-Based Clustering on the data analysis using tool WEKA. The performance of the each model will be measured and compared against each other using accuracy, precision, recall, specificity, AUC and model build time. Thus, this paper will focused on development of prediction model for heart disease by combining clustering and classification techniques in detail.
Influancing Factors To Adopt M-LearningDuring Covid-19 For Schools In Pakistan
Authors: Bilal Syed Muhammad , Yuhaniz Siti Sophiayati , Hassan Noor Hafizah
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this research is to investigate the factors exaggerated due to COVID-19 to adopt m- learning specifically in schools in Pakistan. During COVID-19, school, colleges, universities were obliged to close to implement precautionary measures. The key adopted policy to reduce pandemic was physical distancing forced all towards digital social lifestyle. Health anxiety due to pandemic exaggerated the use of digital devices. Users had to bear price of devices and services. The theoretical model of UTAUT suggests that the actual use of technology is determined by behavioural intention. The degree of association between the independent variables Performance Expectancy (PE), Effort of Expectancy (EE), Social Influence (SI), Facilitating Conditions (FC), and Physical Distancing (PD) is determined using a modified UTAUT model. Whereas the Health Anxiety and Price Value moderating factors are chosen to make the model acceptable for evaluating the study questions and hypothesis. The research is going to explore a gap in the literature by analysing the Physical Distancing and moderating variables of Health Anxiety and Price Value, which might influence the student’s behaviour of Madrasa-tul-Banat High school. 210 female students of grade8,9, and 10 were selected for this research. In this study, a questionnaire survey is utilized to obtain quantitative data on student’s intention and actual usage of m-learning. SPSS 27.0 software is used to evaluate the questionnaire's design and execution, and it will be utilized to examine the degree of association between the research's components.
Blockchain Abstract Architecture for Energy Collaboration for Agriculture in Indonesia based on Bibliometric Approach
Authors: Yudho Satrio , Rusjdi Darma , Elly M Jafar
Published: July 2024

The direction of development for the application of electric vehicles is starting to be seen with great certainty, this situation is driven by the vision of sustainable development goals (SDGs) where one of them is energy that is minimal from carbon. The agricultural sector is a field of activity that also requires machinery or equipment to support its activities. and currently most of them still use conventional machines that produce quite high carbon, meanwhile, when agricultural machinery is converted to electricity, the challenge is to provide affordable energy at competitive prices and reliable technology. Blockchain is a disruptive technology that has many advantages, especially in terms of flexibility and security to accommodate broad interactions from many parties in an activity chain. The purpose of this research is to develop a blockchain-based architecture to support collaborative energy supply in agriculture that is sourced from renewable energy. we use Scopus indexed data sources to formulate and describe the directions and references of the proposed architecture
Comparative Analysis of Software Process Improvement Models
Authors: Almazidi Almutasim , Anuar Syahid
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive comparative analysis of four leading process improvement models: CMMI, ISO, Lean and Six Sigma. The objective is to evaluate and compare these models to determine their effectiveness in optimizing organizational processes. Using a qualitative method of analysis, the study breaks down each model based on standardized criteria, including complexity of implementation, performance metrics, and applicability across industries. The results highlight the unique strengths and limitations of each model and provide a nuanced understanding of their operational impact. The study provides a detailed guide for organizations to select an appropriate model tailored to their specific process improvement needs
Exploring the Impacts of Internet and Social Media Exposure on Children: A Survey-Based Analysis
Authors: Yusri Fatin Nur Khalida , Wan Ali Wan Noor Hamiza , Abas Hafiza , Mamat Normaisharah
Published: July 2024

For the reason of the widespread of technologies in daily life, the rising rate of internet and social media usage among children has emerged as an important area of research. The purpose of this study is to enhance our knowledge of the impact of unsupervised internet and social media use on children's development and well-being. Data was collected via an online questionnaire divided into two sections. Section A dealt with demography, while Section B discussed the impact of the internet and social media on children. This study surveyed 36 parents to investigate their children's access to various internet information, its consequences on mental and physical health such as eye strain and sleep difficulties, and implications for academic achievement. According to the findings, unsupervised internet interaction can result in behavioural abnormalities in roughly 70% of cases, academic difficulties in around 30.6%, and health issues in about 58.3%. However, parents are using a variety of strategies to mitigate these risks. The survey reveals that 70% of respondents set limits on their children's gadget usage, while 22.2% utilize parental control software. These findings highlight the importance of taking proactive actions to overcome the issues posed by unsupervised digital interaction and create a safer and more beneficial online environment for children.
Orthonormal representations, vector chromatic number, and extension complexity
Authors: Balla Igor
Published: July 2024

We construct a bipartite generalization of Alon and Szegedy's nearly orthogonal vectors, thereby obtaining strong bounds for several extremal problems involving the Lovász theta function, vector chromatic number, minimum semidefinite rank, nonnegative rank, and extension complexity of polytopes. In particular, we answer a question from our previous work together with Letzter and Sudakov, while also addressing a question of Hrubeš and of Kwan, Sauermann, and Zhao. Along the way, we derive a couple of general lower bounds for the vector chromatic number which may be of independent interest.
Supporting breastfeeding for women with low education levels, psychosocial problems, and/or socioeconomic constraints: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Frandsen Annemi Lyng , Rytter Maren Johanne Heilskov , Beck Malene , Schiøtz Michaela Louise , Broberg Lotte
Published: July 2024

Objective:

This scoping review aims to identify and map interventions and/or strategies used to support the initiation and continuation of breastfeeding for women at risk of delaying initiation, early cessation, or not breastfeeding due to low levels of education, psychosocial problems, and/or socioeconomic challenges in high-income countries.

Introduction:

While breastfeeding has lifelong beneficial health effects for women and infants, there is a risk of delaying initiation, early cessation, or not initiating breastfeeding at all due to factors related to health inequalities, such as low levels of education, psychosocial problems, and/or socioeconomic constraints.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include eligible quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods studies, as well as systematic reviews and gray literature. We will include studies conducted in high-income countries, focusing on interventions and/or strategies to support women with low levels of education, psychosocial problems, and/or socioeconomic constraints in the initiation and continuation of breastfeeding for up to 6 months postpartum.

Methods:

This review will follow the JBI methodology for scoping reviews, using the Participants, Concept, and Context framework. The primary search will be performed in MEDLINE (Ovid), PsycINFO (EBSCOhost), Embase (Ovid), and CINAHL (EBSCOhost). We will include publications in English, Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, German, Bulgarian, Arabic, and Spanish, published from 1991 until the present. A data charting form will be developed and used for all the included articles.

Review registration:

Open Science Framework https://osf.io/tmp4v/
Reliability Test of Mobile-Embedded Accelerometers and Gyroscopes With the Goal of Measuring Postural Stability for People With Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Thelen Matthew , Meeker Alexis , Mazumder Fardeen , Tabbah Mariam , Zhu Linda , Tang Charlotte , Miller Nathaniel S.
Published: July 2024

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the United States. The cardinal symptoms of PD are tremor, rigidity, slowed movement, and impaired balance. These symptoms often interfere with the daily activities of people with Parkinson's (PwPD) and negatively affect quality of life (QoL). Therefore, monitoring PD symptoms is essential for clinical evaluations and adjusting medication to help maintain QoL for PwPD. We are developing a mobile app to conduct at-home PD symptom monitoring to provide more timely, frequent, and accurate measurements of PD symptoms. While the tremor and finger-tapping results collected in the mobile app have been discussed in previous publications, this paper focuses on the design and evaluation of postural stability tests in the app and validating the reliability of the embedded accelerometers and gyroscopes in smartphones. During the test, a shaker was employed to provide vibration in amplitude and frequency ranges similar to human postural stability signals, and both the accelerometer and gyroscope measurements were evaluated. We used signal processing algorithms to extract postural stability factors, such as the root-mean-square (RMS) value, the derivative of acceleration, and frequency factors for the accelerations, and the ranges and RMS for the angular velocity. Our findings show that smartphone devices have good consistency over multiple trials and between devices, and motion patterns achieved from multiple data points are reliable for postural stability analysis.
Genome-wide comparative analyses highlight selection signatures underlying saline adaptation in Chilika buffalo
Authors: Surati Utsav , Niranjan Saket K. , Pundir Rakesh Kumar , Koul Ymberzal , Vohra Vikas , Gandham Ravi Kumar , Kumar Amod
Published: July 2024

Indian Chilika buffaloes are being maintained on extensive grazing system and have a unique ability to convert local salty vegetation into valuable human food. However, adaptability to saline habitat of Chilika buffalo has not been explored to date. Here, we identified genes and biological pathways involved, such as MAPK signaling, renin secretion, endocytosis, and oxytocin signaling pathway, underlying adaptability of Chilika buffalo to saline environment. This investigation shed light on the mechanisms underlying the buffalo’s resilience in its native surroundings.
Enhanced Expression and Bioactivity Assessment of Recombinant SUMO‐Protease‐1 in E. coli BL21 (DE3) via Cleavage of His6‐SMT3‐SDF‐1 Fusion Protein
Authors: Sadri Farzad , Safarpour Hossain , Ansari Zahra , Ebrahimpour Yazdan , Feriedouni Mohammad
Published: July 2024

Background. The SUMO fusion system is advantageous in improving the solubility and correct folding of proteins that are difficult to produce. SUMO‐protease‐1 (Ulp1) is a key enzyme in this system, and its proper expression and purification in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) are critical to its efficiency. Objective. To optimize Ulp1 expression and purification using His6‐SUMO‐SDF‐1 as a model, aiming to improve efficiency across similar fusion proteins. Methods. We provided a codon‐optimized Ulp1 gene into the pET28a vector. Essential culture factors, including IPTG concentration, incubation length of time, and temperature, were precisely adjusted. Ulp1 was purified using Ni‐NTA affinity chromatography. A cleavage activity assay of recombinant Ulp1 is carried out using the His6‐SUMO‐SDF‐1 fusion protein to demonstrate how well the optimized settings work. Furthermore, the activity of recombinant SDF‐1 was evaluated using the scratch wound healing assay. Results. Ulp1 expression was optimized in E. coli using the pET28a vector, with optimum conditions including 0.1 mM IPTG, 28°C incubation temperature, and an overnight period of time. Recombinant Ulp1 was purified using Ni‐NTA affinity chromatography, resulting in high purity. Enzymatic activity was shown by the effective cleavage of the His6‐SUMO‐SDF‐1 fusion protein. In the scratch wound‐healing assay, recombinant SDF‐1 increased cell migration following cleavage, confirming that biological activity was retained. These findings illustrate Ulp1’s efficient synthesis and effectiveness for prospective applications in biology. Conclusion. This study successfully showed the expression and purification of the recombinant Ulp1 enzyme, showing the most suitable growing conditions for productive protein production. Ulp1’s functionality was validated by its specific cleavage of the His6‐SUMO‐SDF‐1 fusion protein, as well as the fragmented SDF‐1 purified and its biological activity in promoting cell migration. These findings highlight Ulp1’s potential in protein processing as well as its application in biotechnological and biological research.
Figure S1. from Uncovering Risks Associated with Smoking Types and Intensities in Esophageal Cancer within High-Prevalence Regions in Africa: A Comprehensive Meta-analysis
Authors: Kamsu Gabriel T. , Ndebia Eugene J.
Published: July 2024

Funnel plots and regression-based Egger test for small-study effects associating smoking and esophageal cancer risk in Africa.
Supplementary Table S4 from Optimization and Local Cost-Effectiveness of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Screening Strategies in Southern China: Secondary Analysis of the Guangdong Randomized Trial
Authors: Miller Jacob A. , Liu Zhiwei , Pinsky Benjamin A. , Le Quynh-Thu , Li Tong , Yu Kelly J. , Hildesheim Allan , Cao Su-Mei
Published: July 2024

The supplementary table S4 shows impact of screening duration and rescreening intervals on NPC mortality reduction and cost-effectiveness among men and women for serology-based screening strategies in southern China.
Supplementary Table S1 from Optimization and Local Cost-Effectiveness of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Screening Strategies in Southern China: Secondary Analysis of the Guangdong Randomized Trial
Authors: Miller Jacob A. , Liu Zhiwei , Pinsky Benjamin A. , Le Quynh-Thu , Li Tong , Yu Kelly J. , Hildesheim Allan , Cao Su-Mei
Published: July 2024

Supplementary Table S1 shows the modeled transition probabilities, management assumptions, health utilities, and costs with parameter ranges for deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses.
Supplementary Materials and Methods from Optimization and Local Cost-Effectiveness of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Screening Strategies in Southern China: Secondary Analysis of the Guangdong Randomized Trial
Authors: Miller Jacob A. , Liu Zhiwei , Pinsky Benjamin A. , Le Quynh-Thu , Li Tong , Yu Kelly J. , Hildesheim Allan , Cao Su-Mei
Published: July 2024

Guangdong Clinical Trial Protocol