bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Підвищення ефективності функціонування виробників енергії з відновлюваних джерел у сучасних умовах ринку електричної енергії України
Authors: Мірошник Володимир Олександрович
Published: January 2025

У доповіді обговорено виклики, які постали під час війни перед виробниками енергії з відновлюваних джерел унаслідок руйнування інфраструктури. Розглянуто проблеми централізованої енергосистеми і наголошено на необхідності її децентралізації з впровадженням малих і середніх електростанцій, мікромереж та систем накопичення енергії. Значну увагу приділено участі в балансуючих групах, що допомагає зменшити витрати, пов’язані з небалансами. Проаналізовано ризики та переваги виходу виробників із групи ДП «Гарантований покупець». Запропоновано методику зниження витрат, яка ґрунтується на застосуванні коригуючих коефіцієнтів прогнозних графіків та штучних нейронних мереж для збільшення точності прогнозів генерації. Отримані результати дають змогу підвищити економічну ефективність виробників електроенергії з відновлюваних джерел, що є важливим для розбудови енергосистеми на принципах децентралізації.
Occult Abdominal Trauma Screening in the Evaluation of Suspected Child Physical Abuse
Authors: Ruiz-Maldonado Tagrid M. , Wood Joanne N. , Laskey Antoinette L. , Greeley Christopher S. , Bachim Angela , Lindberg Daniel M. , Anderst James , Melville John , Coombs Carmen , Harper Nancy S. , Frasier Lori , Brink Farah W. , Crumm Caitlin E. , Campbell Kristine A.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Occult abdominal trauma (OAT) screening with transaminases, followed by abdominal computed tomography (CT) for transaminase values greater than 80 IU/L, has been recommended in cases of suspected physical abuse. This study aimed to evaluate case characteristics associated with OAT evaluation and determine OAT prevalence in these children.

METHODS

Injured children aged younger than 60 months undergoing Child Abuse Pediatrics (CAP) consultation for suspected physical abuse from February 2021 to May 2023 were identified in CAPNET, a multicenter research network. Children with symptoms or signs of intra-abdominal injury were excluded. We identified case characteristics associated with transaminase screening and abdominal CT imaging using logistic regression and determined OAT prevalence.

RESULTS

Of 6161 eligible children, 3982 (64.6%) underwent transaminase screening; 687/3982 (17.3%) had transaminases greater than 80 IU/L with 298/687 (43.4%) undergoing abdominal CT imaging. Variability in screening and imaging practices was identified between CAPNET sites. In a fully adjusted model, transaminase screening was associated with ages younger than 6 months, greater clinical severity, and site. CT imaging was associated with site, inpatient status, and higher transaminase range. We identified 16 OAT cases in children with transaminases greater than 80 IU/L, representing 2.3% of CAP-evaluated children with positive transaminase screening and 0.3% of all eligible children.

CONCLUSIONS

Providers often perform transaminase screening but not abdominal CT imaging despite transaminases greater than 80 IU/L. The low prevalence of OAT suggests that routine transaminase screening in suspected child physical abuse evaluations may not be necessary when all signs and symptoms of abdominal injury are absent.
Features related to the presence of internet gaming disorder and their impact on the treatment outcomes
Authors: Ayala-Rojas Rocio-Elena , Rosinska Magda , Cárdenas Iván Perales , Soldevilla-Morera Jorge , Granero Roser , Fernández-Aranda Fernando , Jiménez-Murcia Susana
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

Internet gaming disorder (IGD) is a highly engrossing activity with the individual spending up to 10 h per day gaming, this causes issues in accomplishing their tasks and personal goals. Also, to generate in them increased anxiety, impulsivity and lack of social skills, this impacts the good personal development and individual's quality of life. Therefore, it is vital to better understand, in terms of treatment, which factors are associated with therapeutic outcomes (largely to achieve control over the use of video games and the lack of relapses) following a standardized Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) protocol. This study aimed to explore sociodemographic and personality variables and their relation to treatment outcome in patients with IGD.

Method

The sample included n = 105 patients with IGD, considered between January 2005 and December 2022 and recruited from the Behavioral Addictions Unit at the University Hospital of Bellvitge. Data at baseline was registered (sociodemographic and clinical measures), as well as the therapy outcomes (compliance with the guidelines, presence of relapses and dropouts).

Results

Patients were mainly males (n = 95) with a mean age of 24.97 (SD = 12.03). All patients included in this sample had individual CBT treatment in relation to their problematic gaming behavior. In terms of patients who relapsed, they had higher interpersonal sensitivity, hostility and persistence with lower self-directedness. Patients who dropped out were males with an older age of IGD onset. When looking at treatment noncompliance, it was related to higher psychoticism and reward dependence, and lower cooperation. Patients with IGD show higher levels of treatment noncompliance.

Conclusion

These findings evidence a positive and promising effect of CBT on IGT. The factors identified as predictors of good and poor treatment outcomes should be considered for developing new evidence-based interventions focused on learning healthier key coping strategies to manage both cravings and triggers.
Cognitive Engagement in AI-Supported Integrated Language Learning: A Comparative Study of CBI and TBI Using Bloom's Taxonomy
Authors:   res inst edu sci, Lim Young-shin
Published: January 2025

본 연구는 AI의 영향을 탐구하며, Bloom의 수정된 분류체계를 통해 통합 언어 교육인 과업 중심 교육(TBI)과 내용 중심 교육(CBI)을 비교 분석하고자 하였다. 특히, 본 연구는 AI가 언어 학습자의 인지 과정과 지식 습득에 미치는 영향을 통합적으로 이해하고자 데이터 다각화(data triangulation)로 자료를 수집하였다. 17명의 참여자와 세 명의 강사로부터 개방형 설문조사지, 반구조화 인터뷰, 그리고 교사의 성찰 일지를 통해 데이터를 수집하고, 내용 분석을 통해 수집된 자료 중 개방형 설문지 응답을 분석하였다. 연구 결과는 세 가지의 주요 교육적 시사점을 다음과 같이 제시한다. (1) TBI에서는 학습자들이 주로 절차적 지식과 적용 인지 과정을 사용한 반면, CBI에서는 더 다양한 인지 기술이 활용되는 것을 확인하였다. (2) 이러한 교수 방법에 AI의 발달된 기능인 오류에 대한 인지와 학습과정 모니터링이 언어교육에 접목되었을 때 고차원 사고 기술이 활용되는 것을 관측하였다. (3) 반면에, 실험 참가자 집단의 AI활용에 대한 인식에 관한 조사결과, 학습자와 강사 간에는 상반된 관점이 나타나는 것을 확인하였다. 이렇게 두 집단의 상반된 인식에 대한 결과에 기반하여, 본 연구는 AI의 언어교육 적용에 대한 긍정적이면서 부정적인 효과에 대한 통합적인 접근이 필요하다고 제언한다.
Strengthening Human Rights Protection in Nigeria: Safeguards Under the Police Act 2020
Authors: Ehirim Ugochukwu Godspower , Ossai Morrison , Aloamaka Patrick Chukwunonso , Ehirim Nwanneka Flora
Published: January 2025

The concept of Human Rights has become a critical factor in the definition of modern civilisation and constitutional democracies in the twenty-first century. The activities of the police remain central to the perception of human rights under municipal and international law according to the policies of the state-party. This article sets out to examine the provisions of the ‘new’ Police Force (Establishment) Act 2020 with a view to identifying the safeguards put in place by the law for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights in Nigeria. It identifies factors which have contributed to inefficient policing and ever-increasing cases of human rights violations by the police and recommends sticking with the extant legal reforms for a better Nigeria Police Force. The Act introduces provisions such as mandatory accountability mechanism, abolition of use of force or torture to obtain statements from suspects as well as the requirement for the presence of a legal practitioners during a suspect’s interrogation, among others. The doctrinal research method is adopted in analysing statutory provisions and judicial precedents to assess the alignment of policing procedures with constitutional guarantees in line with global best practices. It is observed that despite the wide discretion afforded the Nigeria Police in the discharge of their duties which should boost the observance of human rights, the police abuse these discretions with the end result of serious violations of citizens’ rights which are guaranteed under the constitution. The article concludes that fostering a human-rights-based approach in the discharge of police duties alongside a stringent enforcement of the Police Act 2020 is imperative to sustaining lasting, far-reaching reforms.
Random-anisotropy effects in the second-order phase transition of the 2D Blume-Capel model
Authors: Huong Giang Bach , Nguyen Phong , Nguyen Quan , Bui Son
Published: January 2025

We report on the second-order phase transition of two-dimensional (2D) magnetic materials under the influence of random anisotropy in the context of the Blume-Capel model employing an effective field theory and the differential operator method. By analyzing the temperature dependence of magnetization, we thoroughly explore the second-order ferromagnetic-to-paramagnetic (FM-PM) phase transition at the critical temperature $T_C$. When the magnitude of the random anisotropy $D$ and its probability $p$ is sufficiently large, the magnetization equation becomes divergent and unsolvable at a critical temperature, indicating the emergence of a tricritical point and a first-order phase transition. Additionally, we produce a phase diagram for the second-order phase transition presenting the relation between the critical temperature and anisotropy amplitude at various probabilities.
Os Monumentos Nacionais de Portugal e a abertura ao público (2023): principais indicadores
Authors: Macedo Sofia Costa , Jorge Santos , José Soares Neves , Maria João Lima
Published: January 2025

The Survey of National Monuments in Portugal (IMNP) is an annual initiative by the OPAC - Portuguese Observatory of Cultural Activities, launched in 2019. This project aims to compile statistical data on the usage, public access, visitor numbers, and human resources of visitable National Monuments in Portugal, with most indicators referencing data from 2018 and visitor data from 2017. The absence of official statistics on cultural heritage in Portugal, particularly regarding visitor data (excluding museums), prompted OPAC to undertake the study ‘From Safeguarding to Valuing: Portugal's National Monuments and Opening Up to the Public’ (Macedo et al., 2023; Neves et al., 2020; 2023; Neves et al., 2020a; 2020b; 2021; Neves et al., 2020c; Neves et al., 2024; Santos et al., 2022). This survey is part of that study. The sixth edition, conducted in 2024 with data from 2023, surveyed 337 National Monuments, of which 258 responded. Among these, 241 are accessible to visitors.
„Mi smo vama nešto ko zamorčići, jel?“ O etičkim i metodološkim dilemama istraživanja beskućništva
Authors: Vukušić Ana-Marija , Belaj Melanija
Published: January 2025

Članak se bavi etičkim i metodološkim dvojbama koje su proizašle iz istraživanja socijalno ugroženih građana Zagreba, odnosno ljudi s iskustvom življenja u beskućništvu. U prvome dijelu rada donosimo kratki osvrt na odabrane značajke dosadašnjih istraživanja beskućništva. Potom predstavljamo osobitosti izgradnje našega istraživačkoga pristupa, odnosno „metodološke mreže“ u kojoj smo, posredstvom isprobavanja klasičnih i uvriježenih etnografskih metoda te iskustava temeljenih na početničkom promatranju s udaljenosti, preko sudjelovanja (volonterski rad) i intervjuiranja, spoznale važnost etnografije nenametljivosti, odnosno slušanja, čekanja i druženja. U nastavku rada bavimo se pozicioniranjem ili, preciznije rečeno, preklapanjima naše istraživačke, volonterske i, uvjetno rečeno, prijateljske uloge u različitim kontekstima bivanja na terenu, te osmišljavanjem strategija kojima bismo nadvladale ta preklapanja kako bismo postigle „istraživačku učinkovitost“, a onda i „umirile“ naša metodološka i etička propitivanja.
Aplicação de Redes Neurais Artificiais na Classificação de Manifestações Patológicas por Meio de Imagens Capturadas por Aeronave Remotamente Pilotada
Authors: Velozo Jair Henrique dos Passos , Albuquerque Everson Silva De , Costa Glauber Carvalho , Monteiro Eliana Cristina Barreto
Published: January 2025

With today's technological advances, many areas have made great leaps forward by incorporating and incorporating automation systems into their routines, and the broad field of modern architecture and civil construction have followed the same path. Programming is becoming a highlight around the world and with it we know artificial neural networks, sets of algorithms that, when trained, can identify and classify different elements. The objective is to use Remotely Piloted Aircraft (ARP), extract images to perform image processing using software and train neural networks in order to diagnose pathological manifestations in modern building architecture. In turn, pathological manifestations, as they are post-construction elements, are identified and classified by civil engineering professionals, who have increasingly adopted the use of technological tools to facilitate their routines. With the use of images taken through cameras and drones to identify pathological manifestations, neural networks began to play a fundamental role when it comes to identification, classification of these elements and even efficiency in activities. The use of the elaborate neural network served to identify where these pathological manifestations were located and what they were, with only real images of the damaged building and thus could be compared with a damage map, finally having an acceptable accuracy in relation to its results.
Avaliação da qualidade ambiental de salas de aula
Authors: Canelada Andre , Fontes Maria Solange Gurgel de Castro , Magagnin Renata Cardoso , Azambuja Maximiliano dos Anjos
Published: January 2025

Ensuring environmental quality, such as thermal, acoustic or visual, in classrooms is an essential factor for high productivity among those who use this space, because these are places where users spend most of the day. Measuring these parameters in these environments can be done using different qualitative and quantitative methodologies, being the most common the on-site measurements of temperature, luminance and noise, along with the application of questionnaires to understand the perceptions of those who use the location. In this context, the article aimed to identify the most common methods for measuring the environmental quality of classrooms in the specific literature. To this end, a systematic literature review was carried out using the ScienceDirect and Scopus databases, based on the selection of 29 articles, which made up the sample size. With the individual analysis the articles, the importance of carrying out post-occupancy evaluation experiments in school spaces is highlighted, taking into account personal variables between human beings, as well as different microclimatic and cultural contexts, as users' perception of the built environment may be interfered according to these criteria. The analysis of the bibliography provides a general overview of the researches developed around the world, being able to serve as a basis for work related to the topic. Furthermore, the references indicated a gap regarding the lack of articles that use methodologies other than conventional ones, mainly in relation to qualitative methodologies for evaluating a physical space of the classrooms.
Crescimento Demográfico e Extensão dos Aglomerados Subnormais nas Bacias PCJ
Authors: Feltre Cristiane , Terci Eliana Tadeu
Published: January 2025

The municipalities of the PCJ Basins have faced economic and demographic pressures for years that make it hard to universalize basic sanitation and water sustainability. This article aims to analyze the challenges faced by these municipalities, as well as by metropolitan management, since the inclusion of most of the PCJ Basins region in some metro region after the state reconfiguration process in the year 2021. In addition to natural elements, such as persisting droughts, and the structural ones, such as the extension of sanitary sewage services and the loss of water in distribution, the population of this region expanded more than the São Paulo state, combined with the migration of people looking for better job opportunities and the real estate speculation generated a process of socio-spatial segregation in cities extending the number of households in subnormal agglomerates. Demographic pressures were more robust in smaller and less dynamic municipalities, which, by nature, already face financial difficulties. These cities need public policies developed within the scope of metropolitan regions to face the challenges of guaranteeing access to water and sanitary sewage to everyone.
Elaboração de mapas de danos para análise comparativa do estado de conservação da Ponte Santa Isabel nos anos de 2021 e 2022
Authors: Gonzaga Camila Marques do Rêgo , Vasconcelos Felipe Duan Moura , Silva Marcelo Avelino da , Monteiro Eliana Cristina Barreto , Silva Simone Rosa da
Published: January 2025

The city of Recife has numerous bridges that have existed for several years and are essential for the proper functioning of society. Over time, these special works of art suffer from the action of external weather and, in some cases, the action of man, which ends up generating countless pathological manifestations that require correction. As a result, this research's main objective is to carry out a comparative study of the levels of degradation of the Santa Isabel Bridge between the years 2021 and 2022, aiming to collaborate with future restoration works at the site and also, with the increase in the number of research aimed at for the topic studied. Therefore, the case study was chosen as the methodological basis, being divided into four stages: selection of the object of study, carrying out two photographic inspections of the selected bridge (one in 2021 and the other in 2022), preparation of the Identification Sheets of Data (ISD) and damage maps, and execution of a comparative analysis of the bridge's situation during the studied period. As a result, several pathological manifestations were found on the facades and in the central section of the bridge and, from the preparation of damage maps, it was possible to identify the areas that required more urgent repairs due to the high degree of incidence of anomalies. Based on the results, it was possible to show the importance of conserving this type of structure, as it is an important instrument for the economic, social, and environmental development of cities.
Fast Computational Modeling Based on the Boundary Element Method Towards the Design of an Ultrasonic Biomedical Applicator
Authors:   Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes, Martínez-Valdez Raquel , Bazán Ivonne ,   Universidad Autónoma de Aguascalientes
Published: January 2025

The aim of this work is to analyze the usage of the boundary element method (BEM) as a fast computational tool for solving large ultrasonic field problems, i.e. 3D models. A proposed tridimensional radiating surface SR was modeled by means of BEM and the finite element method (FEM). Four time-harmonics models were developed: two containing the entire SR and two considering a symmetrical plane at half-length of the radiator. BEM solutions were validated with FEM models by contours at -3 dB and -6 dB pressure decays, areas within the contours, elliptical shape ratio Er and ellipsoidal focal volume approximations. The average differences in pressure and distance at the focus were 39.875 Pa and 0.4515 mm, respectively; the areas within the contours show differences between 0.6 mm2 and 2.3 mm2. The Er of the focal zone was over 92 %, while the ellipsoidal volume approximation showed differences between 0.0817 mm3 to 1.4632 mm3 at -3 dB, and 1.2354 mm3 to 4.1144 mm3 at -6 dB. Analyzed data suggest the use of BEM to model the ultrasonic beam pattern in a lossless medium during ultrasonic biomedical applicators design, reducing the solution time from 22 h with FEM to 2 min with BEM.
Isolation and Antibacterial Screening of Marine Heterotrophic Bacteria from Makassar Strait, Indonesia
Authors: Fretes Charlie Ester de , Pesilette Rosmi Nuslah , Sohilait Mario Rowan , Yanubi Dorthea , Ririhatuela Florensia Claudya Thalia , Satwika Dhira
Published: January 2025

The biological potential of microorganisms in Indonesian waters has yet to be widely reported despite their high diversity. This research aimed to isolate bacteria from seawater and seabed sediments in Makassar Strait and then screen their potential antibacterial abilities. Subsequently, we tried to determine the bioactive compound content of the bacterial extracts. We purified 15 bacterial isolates and based on a 16S rRNA analysis, we found that these bacteria represented three phyla, namely Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria. All the isolates were found to have antibacterial capabilities, while 2 isolates showed positive results for inhibiting the growth of the pathogens tested. Molecular analysis studies provided information that the two isolates which were Bacillus sp., namely B. stratosphericus TR4 and B. thuringiensis TR13, were detected to have non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) genes, which are thought to contribute to their antibacterial potential. Compounds from the imidazole group, quinolone ester derivatives, steroid derivatives, and acetamide derivatives were found in the extracts of both strains. Further research needs to be conducted to better understand each compound’s antibacterial mechanisms and possible interesting bioactive properties.
The Characterization and Maternal Phylogenetic Analysis of Complete Mitochondrial Genome of the Native Bian Chicken
Authors: Bai Hai , Liu Limin , Zhang Yongfang , Wen Yuping , Zhang Xing , Xiang Hai
Published: January 2025

The Bian chicken (Gallus gallus, Linaeus, 1758) is an indigenous breed known for its unique traits that make it well-suited for rearing in the cold regions and highland hills of northern China. To better understand the genetic characteristics of this breed, we conducted high throughput sequencing to determine the complete mitochondrial genome (mitogenome) of the Bian chicken. The mitogenome of the Bian chicken was found to be 16,787 bp in size and consisted of 22 transfer RNA genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes, and 1 non-coding control region known as the D-loop. The overall nucleotide composition was found to be 32.45% C, 30.25% A, 23.8% T, and 13.5% G. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the Bian chicken is distantly related to the Zhuanghe big-boned chicken, but closely related to the Xiaoxiang chicken and Taoyuan chicken. This study not only provides valuable genetic data for the diversity and preservation of the Bian chicken breed, but also contributes additional evidence supporting the significantly different genetic relationship between the Bian chicken and the Zhuanghe big-boned chicken.
Unveiling Common Pathways and Potential Drug Targets for Ulcerative Colitis and IgG4-Related Disease through Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Liao Quan , Zhang Hongjian , Zhou Fangyuan , Lin Huasheng , Zheng Xiongwei , Weng Zhiyun , Li Kaiyue , Wan Zheng , Pan Heng
Published: January 2025

Patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) are at an increased risk of developing IgG4 related diseases (IgG4-RD). However, the molecular mechanisms are not known. This study aimed to investigate the potential molecular mechanisms and drugs to treat both UC and IgG4-RD. GSE42911 and GSE40568 datasets were intersected to generate common differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The DEGs were then subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. After a protein-protein interaction network (PPI) analysis, hub genes and transcriptional regulators (TFs) were tracked. Finally, potential therapeutic drugs were predicted by the DGIDB drug database. A total of 212 common DEGs were identified in between UC and IgG4-RD. Functional enrichment revealed DEGs enriched in ‘cytoplasm’, and ‘RNA binding’. Furthermore, KEGG pathway analysis identified significant enrichment in ‘Hippo signaling’. The PPI network was enriched with 162 genes/nodes and 532 edges. Additionally, hub genes and associated with 41 TFs and 18 miRNAs were found. Finally, 16 potential drugs targeted to four hub genes were found. In summary, these findings provide novel insights into the pathophysiology of UC and IgG4-RD, highlighting potential molecular targets and drug candidates for therapeutic intervention. The identified drugs could pave the way for targeted therapies, potentially improving clinical outcomes for patients suffering from these conditions and offering a new direction for treatment strategies in both UC and IgG4-RD.
Pembangunan Pengukuran MyPrestasi Berdasarkan Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award (MBNQA): Kesahan dan Kebolehpercayaan Menurut Model Rasch
Authors: Mohd Suradi Nur Riza Binti , Mohd Nasir Mohammad Fairuz Bin , Ismail Wan Rosmanira Binti
Published: January 2025

Instrumen MyPrestasi bagi memantau dan mengukur prestasi organisasi dalam sektor awam di Malaysia telah dibangunkan dengan merujuk kepada kriteria Anugerah Kualiti Kebangsaan Malcolm Baldrige (MBNQA). Tujuh kriteria MBNQA iaitu Kepimpinan, Strategi, Pelanggan, Pengukuran, Analisis dan Pengurusan Pengetahuan, Tenaga Kerja, Operasi dan Keberhasilan menjadi konstruk instrumen pengukuran prestasi organisasi. Kajian ini melibatkan 100 responden pegawai awam persekutuan daripada kategori Pengurusan dan Profesional Gred 41 sehingga Gred 54. Tiga jenis analisis khusus menggunakan pengukuran model Rasch telah digunakan untuk menilai kesemua tujuh konstruk melibatkan 28 item dalam instrumen MyPrestasi. Nilai infit dan outfit MSNQ bagi lima konstruk MyPrestasi didapati mematuhi nilai julat yang ditetapkan. Manakala, dua item iaitu ST4 dan RT4 dalam konstruk Strategi dan Keberhasilan digugurkan dari instrumen MyPrestasi disebabkan terkeluar daripada julat MNSQ. Analisis Korelasi Pengukuran Titik Item bagi kesemua item juga menunjukkan nilai yang positif. Hasil kajian mencadangkan MyPrestasi dengan 26 item sebagai instrumen yang jitu, sah dan boleh dipercayai untuk mengukur prestasi organisasi dalam sektor awam.
Penggunaan Pasir Silika dan Karbon Teraktif sebagai Medium bagi Merawat Air Bawah Tanah di Hulu Langat, Selangor
Authors: Mohamad Noor Fatinah , Roslan Norsyafina , Abdul Halim Azhar , Wan Abdul Karim Wan Neqhaikal
Published: January 2025

Masalah utama yang dihadapi oleh pengguna air bawah tanah di Malaysia adalah kandungan mineral oksida besi yang tinggi. Komposisi air bawah tanah adalah dipengaruhi oleh geologi dan hidrogeologi setempat. Oleh itu, kajian ini dijalankan untuk mengkaji potensi pasir silika dan karbon teraktif sebagai medium yang berkesan bagi merawat air bawah tanah di beberapa lokaliti terpilih di Hulu Langat, Selangor. Kajian dimulakan dengan aktiviti pemetaan geologi di kawasan kajian dan mentafsir data lubang gerudi bagi menghasilkan model konsep geologi kawasan kajian. Data paras air bawah tanah dan data kimia air bagi telaga abstraksi di Hulu Langat dianalisis bagi menghasilkan cirian hidrogeologi kawasan kajian. Sampel air bawah tanah di kawasan kajian dianalisis secara in situ menggunakan YSI Pro 1030 MPS (suhu, pH, kemasinan dan jumlah pepejal terlarut) dan kit ujian (nilai kekerasan dan kandungan besi). Sampel air dirawat menggunakan turus penjerapan dengan pasir silika pelbagai saiz dan karbon teraktif sebagai medium. Parameter fiziko kimia bagi sampel air bawah tanah terawat dianalisis menggunakan YSI Pro 1030 MPS dan Kit Ujian. Litologi utama kawasan kajian adalah granit biotit. Lapisan tanah baki menindih lapisan batuan granit yang teretak membentuk lapisan akuifer terkekang. Air bawah tanah di kawasan kajian adalah dominan dengan unsur Na+, K+ dan HCO3-, hasil interaksi antara air bawah tanah dengan medium akuifer dan aktiviti guna tanah di sekitar telaga abstraksi. Kajian turus penjerapan menggunakan pasir pelbagai saiz dan karbon teraktif sebagai medium didapati lebih berkesan berbanding menggunakan medium pasir sahaja. Sistem rawatan yang dihasilkan ternyata berkesan dalam meneutralkan air bawah tanah yang berasid, mengurangkan kekerasan air dan menyingkirkan kandungan besi.
Impak Perubahan Iklim dan Jaminan Keselamatan Makanan: Cabaran Pengeluaran Padi di Malaysia
Authors: Abdul Talib Shaidatul Azdawiyah , Idris Wan Mohd Razi , Neng Liew Ju , Lihan Tukimat , Abdul Rasid Muhammad Zamir
Published: January 2025

Isu perubahan iklim global menjadi perhatian masyarakat dunia ekoran impak negatif terhadap trend cuaca yang menjurus kepada berlakunya peristiwa ekstrim. Di Malaysia, peningkatan suhu dan perubahan corak taburan hujan mengakibatkan berlakunya banjir dan kemarau, yang turut memberi kesan kepada kawasan pertanian termasuklah tanaman padi. Lembaga Kemajuan Pertanian Muda (MADA) merupakan kawasan jelapang terbesar di Malaysia turut berdepan dengan permasalahan ini. Oleh itu, perubahan corak taburan hujan serta suhu persekitaran perlu dianalisis ekoran impak terhadap hasil tanaman yang turut akan melibatkan isu jaminan keselamatan makanan. Data iklim cerapan (1991-2020) dan unjuran perubahan iklim (CMIP5) di bawah senario RCP 4.5 dan RCP 8.5 dianalisis bagi 7 lokasi terpilih di MADA, merangkumi ujian Mann-Kendall (MK) dan kecerunan Sen (SS), indeks keamatan hujan (PCI), indeks anomali hujan (RAI), indeks kerpasan piawai (SPI) dan anomali suhu. Unjuran dibahagikan kepada 3 tempoh masa; awal abad (2020-2046), pertengahan abad (2047-2073) dan akhir abad (2074-2099). Hasil ujian MK dan SS mendapati jumlah taburan hujan tahunan dan kedua-dua musim penanaman dijangka akan terus meningkat dengan corak hujan yang tidak sekata pada musim utama. Tiada kemarau dijangkakan di MADA dengan peningkatan sehingga 2.74 °C (RCP 4.5) dan 4.83 °C (RCP 8.5). Unjuran hasil DSSAT 4.8 menggambarkan purata hasil tanaman padi berkurangan sekitar 19% - 25% (RCP 4.5) dan sekitar 20% - 27% (RCP 8.5) berbanding hasil yang direkodkan pada tahun 2022. Sehubungan itu, hasil kajian ini dapat membantu para penyelidik dan penggubal dasar merangka strategi adaptasi dan mitigasi terbaik bagi menjamin keselamatan makanan dan pembangunan mapan.
Inhibition of Quorum Sensing, Biofilm, and Motility of Escherichia coli by Staphylococcus warneri MG1_8 Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Chaichana Nattarika , Sukpondma Yaowapa , Sermwittayawong Decha , Sermwittayawong Natthawan
Published: January 2025

Quorum sensing (QS) system in bacteria, mediated by a small signaling molecule called an autoinducer (AI), promotes biofilm formation and other virulence factors that contribute to reducing the susceptibility of treatment agents. Escherichia coli is considered bacteria contaminated in the food industry with their biofilm-forming ability which allows them to adhere on surfaces. In this study, the cell-free supernatant (CFS) extract of mangrove forest isolated bacteria, Staphylococcus warneri MG1_8, was purified and its possible quorum sensing inhibitor (QSI) metabolites were identified. Fraction A was separated from S. warneri MG1_8-CFS extract using gel column chromatography and confirmed as a positive fraction by its ability to inhibit bioluminescence in the biosensor strain Vibrio campbellii ATCC BAA-1119, showing 76% inhibition. In addition, pyridoxine (PN) was identified as a major compound in the S. warneri MG1_8 CFS extract. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of PN against E. coli ATCC 25922 was 50 mg/mL. The PN at 1/4MIC reduced biofilm formation and cell adherence in E. coli strains, as observed under scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Moreover, motility and AI-2 signaling also decreased after exposure to PN at sub-MIC levels. Current research demonstrates that PN can inhibit biofilm formation and motility by interfering with AI-2 QS, suggesting it could be considered a novel biocontrol agent to reduce bacterial contamination in food production.
Aktiviti Antimalaria dan Skizontisida Sebatian Analog 4-aminokuinolina-pirano[2,3-c]pirazol terhadap Plasmodium knowlesi A1H1 dan Analisis Dok Molekul
Authors: Kamal Siti Nurfatehah , Ali Amatul Hamizah , Ling Ng Yee , Shamsudin Mohd Asyraf , Jamil Siti Nur Hidayah , Agustar Hani Kartini , Hassan Nurul Izzaty , Mohd Abd Razak Mohd Ridzuan , Ling Lau Yee , Latip Jalifah
Published: January 2025

Kemunculan jangkitan zoonosis Plasmodium knowlesi dan perkembangan kerintangan parasit terhadap ubat antimalaria sedia ada memacu penyelidikan dinamik bagi meneroka dan mencari agen antimalaria yang baharu. Penghibridan farmakoforik ialah suatu strategi gabungan dua sebatian yang berlainan farmakofor untuk mencegah kerintangan parasit terhadap ubat antimalaria sedia ada dan mengurangkan kesan sampingan ubat antimalaria. Lima terbitan kuinolina telah menunjukkan aktiviti antimalaria terhadap parasit malaria iaitu kesan analog 4-aminokuinolina-pirano[2,3-c]pirazol terhadap strain Plasmodium falciparum 3D7 dan K1. Oleh itu, objektif kajian ini adalah untuk menilai aktiviti antimalaria dan skizontisida analog 4-aminokuinolina-pirano[2,3-c]pirazol terhadap strain parasit zoonotik iaitu Plasmodium knowlesi A1H1 yang telah diadaptasi dalam darah manusia. Kesemua analog kuinolina telah diuji secara in vitro terhadap P. knowlesi A1H1 menggunakan plasmodium laktat dehidrogenase (pLDH) dan ujian pematangan skizon (SMA). Analisis dok molekul analog kuinolina turut dilakukan pada satu protein sasaran, Plasmodium sp. pengangkut rintang-klorokuina (PfCRT) yang bertujuan untuk memahami kemungkinan potensi protein ini sebagai sasaran antimalaria analog kuinolina tersebut. Hasil yang diperoleh menunjukkan bahawa analog 2 dan 5 (EC50 = 0.15-0.16 µM) mempunyai kesan antiplasmodium yang poten terhadap P. knowlesi. Tambahan lagi, analog 2 dan 5 mempunyai kesan skizontisida yang poten terhadap P. knowlesi berbanding sebatian analog yang lain. Suatu kajian menggunakan analisis dok in silico menunjukkan bahawa analog 2 dan 5 mempunyai konformasi pengikatan sempurna dalam tapak domain transmembran-1 PfCRT dengan masing-masing mempunyai nilai afiniti pengikatan -9.1 kcal/mol. Hasil kajian ini mencadangkan bahawa analog 2 dan 5 menghalang pertumbuhan parasit zoonotik P. knowlesi dan menyasarkan protein parasit PfCRT sebagai sasaran molekul berpotensi.
Kesan Azanium Iodida terhadap Sifat Konduktif Elektrolit Berasaskan Polimer Campuran Poli(Ethenol)-Selulosa Metil Eter
Authors: Shamsuri N.A. , Chia J.J. , Hamsan M.H. , Kadir M.F.Z. , Shukur M.F.
Published: January 2025

Elektrolit polimer pepejal (EPP) telah menarik perhatian sebagai pengganti yang berpotensi disebabkan oleh kelenturan mekanikal yang ketara, kebolehterusan proses yang mudah, membolehkan pembentukan peranti penyimpanan yang selamat, ringkas dan mudah dibentuk. Dalam kajian ini, suatu sistem EPP yang terdiri daripada poli(etenol) (PE) dan selulosa metil eter (SME) telah disediakan melalui teknik pelapisan larutan. Pelbagai peratus berat (% bt.) azanium iodida (AI) telah digabungkan dengan EPP PE/SME sebagai pembekal ion untuk meningkatkan kekonduksian ion. Interaksi antara EPP PE/SME dan AI telah dianalisis melalui analisis spektroskopi inframerah transformasi Fourier (FTIR). Daripada mikroskopi imbasan elektron penyerakan medan (FESEM), didapati bahawa kandungan AI telah memberi kesan yang signifikan terhadap morfologi EPP lalu meningkatkan kekonduksian ion EPP. Pengaruh AI ke atas sifat elektrik EPP telah dikaji lebih lanjut melalui spektroskopi impedans elektrokimia (EIS). Penggabungan 40 %bt. AI telah mengoptimumkan kekonduksian suhu bilik elektrolit kepada (2.34 ± 0.48) × 10-5 S cm-1.
Development of TCS3200 Color Sensor Based on Arduino Uno Microcontroller for Determination of Capsaicin Level in Sauces
Authors: Suhud Khairi , Utari Dian , Surbakti Muhammad Syukri , Alva Sagir , Omar Fairuz , Saiful Saiful , Heliawati Leny , Ningsih Purnama , Kacaribu Andriy Anta , Hadistya Muhammad Daffa , Gunana Thariq Zaid , Idroes Rinaldi
Published: January 2025

A color sensor has been designed to measure the capsaicin level in commercial sauces. This system is designed using a TCS2300 color sensor as an input, and an Arduino Uno microcontroller with Integrated Development Environment (IDE) software as signal conditioning and signal processing. The measurement result will be compared to the standard Ultraviolet-Visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer method. The sauce samples were taken using a sampling technique, namely eight samples of sauces circulating in the city of Banda Aceh. The result showed that the levels of capsaicin using the TCS3200 color sensor and UV-Vis spectrophotometer ranged from 5.39 to 22.42 mg/L and 5.58 to 22.64 mg/L, respectively. The linearity obtained in the concentration range of 5.25 mg/L shows a linear calibration curve using the TCS3200 color sensor (R2 = 0.9961) and UV-Vis Spectrophotometer (R2 = 0.9973). Accuracy (% recovery) for the TCS3200 color sensor and UV-Vis spectrophotometer ranged from 98.94 to 106.63%, and 98.13 to 110.2% mg/L, respectively. In the case of interday and intraday relative standard deviation has not more than 2%. Based on the t-test assessment, it shows that the TCS3200 color sensor has no differences statistically in results with UV-Vis Spectrophotometer. These results describe that the TCS3200 color sensor can be an alternative for analyses of capsaicin in sauce samples.
Cytoprotective Role of Chondrocyte Coculturing for Enhanced Cartilage Regeneration
Authors: Tariq Muhammad Faizan , Rashid Sumera , Tarar Aisha , Sajjad Umar , Ahmad Muhammad Rauf , Ijaz Bushra , Kaul Haiba , Latief Noreen
Published: January 2025

Osteoarthritis is characterized by the progressive deterioration of articular cartilage, leading to joint pain and functional impairments. Current treatment options are limited in their ability to stimulate cartilage regeneration. Evidence suggests that the co-culture technique, involving the interplay of multiple cell types, may effectively restore damaged cartilage. This investigation assessed the regenerative impact of co-culture on osteoarthritis-affected rat knee joints. Gene expression profiling validated phenotypic and biochemical expression analysis. Compared to the control group, the co-cultivated cohorts showed elevated levels of cartilage-specific markers, such as collagen and aggrecan. Notably, the group with stress and co-cultured with normal and osteoarthritic chondrocytes (H2O2+N+OA) demonstrated significant results, including lower LDH release (15.06 ± 1.461), decreased glycosaminoglycan levels (1.551 ± 0.1487), and reduced cell death percentage (17.50 ± 3.536) compared to the H2O2 control. Safranin-O staining retention also increased (28.89 ± 2.846), indicating enhanced cartilage matrix retention. Enhanced expression of survival markers such as Bcl (0.3974 ± 0.02241) and decreased apoptotic markers like Bax (0.2961 ± 0.01199) were observed, confirming the stimulation of critical genes involved in cartilage development and matrix synthesis. These findings support the potential of co-culture technology to accelerate cartilage regeneration and offer an innovative strategy to impede osteoarthritis progression.
Extraction Efficiency Study of Dysprosium and Neodymium from Acetic Leaching Solution of Xenotime by Di-(2-Ethylhexyl) Phosphoric Acid
Authors: Mohamed Takip Khaironie , Md Saleh Noorashikin , Hazan Roshasnorlyza , Luthfi Abdullah Amru Indera
Published: January 2025

The increasing importance of rare earth elements (REEs) in advanced technologies has prompted extensive research on their extraction, notably neodymium (Nd) and dysprosium (Dy), critical components for neo-magnet production. Researchers are actively exploring Nd and Dy recovery from both primary and secondary REE sources, often employing solvent extraction post-acid leaching for effective separation. In this context, a study focused on extracting Nd and Dy from local xenotime minerals utilizing acetic acid (CH3COOH) as the leaching solution and Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) in kerosene at a 30% concentration as the organic solvent. Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (ED-XRF) analysis gauged Nd and Dy concentrations pre and post-extraction. The study identified optimal conditions, showing peak extraction efficiency: 99.4% for Nd and 99.3% for Dy, achieved using a 1M leaching solution concentration and a 1:1 aqueous-to-organic (A/O) phase volume ratio. The extraction process demonstrated highest efficacy at 30 °C within a 20-min timeframe. Consequently, the investigation highlights the potential of acetic acid as a xenotime leaching medium for Nd and Dy extraction with D2EHPA. Therefore, this study proves that CH3COOH is potentially be used as the leaching media of xenotime for the extraction of Nd and Dy with D2EHPA.
Aktiviti 210Pb dalam PM10 di Pesisir Pantai Timur Semenanjung Malaysia
Authors: Johari Siti Munirah , Liu Shengfa , Shi Xuefa , Mohamed Che Abd. Rahim , Mohd Ali Masni
Published: January 2025

Radionuklid semula jadi 210Pb kerap digunakan sebagai penyurih untuk mengkaji proses atmosfera dan pengangkutan jarak jauh bahan pencemar dalam ruang udara. 210Pb yang melekat pada zarah PM10 telah melalui proses penggarutan yang dipengaruhi oleh pelbagai faktor sekitaran. Objektif kajian ini adalah untuk menentukan hubungan antara aktiviti 210Pb dan faktor meteorologi di pantai timur Semenanjung Malaysia. Pensampelan PM10 telah dijalankan pada tahun 2007 oleh Jabatan Meteorologi Malaysia di stesen meteorologi Kota Bharu, Kuantan dan Mersing. Sampel PM10 dihadam sepenuhnya dan aktiviti 210Pb dihitung menggunakan Spektrometri Pembilang Kasar Alfa Beta. Kota Bharu, Kuantan dan Mersing menunjukkan kepekatan PM10 maksimum pada Monsun Barat Daya dengan nilai 82.7 mg/m3, 47.9 mg/m3 dan 51.9 mg/m3, selari dengan bilangan titik panas di Kepulauan Riau, Indonesia. Julat aktiviti 210Pb pada tahun 2007 adalah 0.25 - 1.17 mBq/m3 (Kota Bharu), 0.13 - 0.86 mBq/m3 (Kuantan) dan 0.15 - 0.84 mBq/m3 (Mersing). 210Pb merekodkan aktiviti maksimum semasa Monsun Barat Daya bagi Kuantan dan Mersing masing-masing dengan purata 0.64 ± 0.08 mBq/m3 dan 0.58 ± 0.08 mBq/m3. Manakala, Kota Bharu merekodkan aktiviti 210Pb maksimum semasa Monsun Timur Laut dengan purata 0.70 mBq/m3. Analisis korelasi Pearson dan regresi linear menunjukkan korelasi yang negatif antara jumlah hujan harian (unit: mm) dan aktiviti 210Pb di pesisir pantai Semenanjung Malaysia. Selain itu, terdapat korelasi positif antara aktiviti 210Pb dengan suhu. Ini menunjukkan bahawa jumlah hujan harian dan suhu adalah faktor-faktor penting yang mempengaruhi aktiviti 210Pb dalam PM10 pesisir pantai.
Multi-robot Path Planning Based on the Improved Nutcracker Optimization Algorithm and the Dynamic Window Approach
Authors: Zhao Jiangrong , Ding Hongwei , Zhu Yuanjing , Yang Zhijun , Hu Peng , Wang Zongshan
Published: January 2025

Multi-robot path planning faces challenges such as conflict avoidance, collaboration, and dynamic environments. This paper proposes a multi-robot path planning algorithm that integrates the improved nutcracker optimization algorithm with the improved dynamic window approach. To address the nutcracker algorithm’s sensitivity to initial conditions and slow convergence, a population initialization strategy is introduced for more diverse initial populations. Additionally, a simplified path node strategy is also designed to shorten paths and reduce steering times. By incorporating a dynamic inertia weight factor , the balance between global exploration and local optimization is improved. To address the limitations of the dynamic window approach, which is unable to avoid dynamic obstacles instantly and is prone to falling into local optimal solutions, the target distance subfunction, the path evaluation subfunction and the deviation from danger zone subfunction are added to the evaluation function. Finally, the two algorithms were fused together and we conducted four experiments to validate the performance of the MANOA, IDWA, and MANOA-IDWA algorithms, as well as the application of MANOA-IDWA in multi-robot path planning. Results show that MANOA-IDWA significantly increases path planning success rates in dynamic environments, producing shorter and smoother paths, thus enhancing the safety and stability of multi-robot operations.
Engaged Scholarship and Its Discontents
Authors: Molla Tebeje
Published: January 2025

Engaged scholarship plays a crucial role in shaping collective narratives and fostering inclusive societies. This article explores the concept of engaged scholarship, highlighting both its transformative potential and the discontents that accompany it. Informed by existing literature and personal reflections, the discussion is divided into three key sections. The first section provides a concise overview of engaged scholarship and outlines the conditions that enable its practice. The second section delves into the main discontents of engaged scholarship: narrow definitions of academic work, polarised views on knowledge and truth, restrictive professional guidelines, the potential for backlash, and the risk of burnout. These pitfalls create an environment where scholars may hesitate to engage fully, despite the pressing need for their contributions to public discourse. In the third and final section, the article emphasises the moral imperative of using research for social change and advocates for the creation of supportive ecosystems to help scholars navigate the challenges of public engagement.
35 ANOS DE CONSTITUIÇÃO CIDADÃ: DAS ORIGENS AOS DESAFIOS ATUAIS
Authors: Pilatti Adriano
Published: January 2025

Trata-se de ensaio sobre as origens e o significado da Constituição da República Federativado Brasil, promulgada em 5 de outubro de 1988. Por meio de um breve retrospecto histórico,são enfocados os principais acontecimentos do período transcorrido entre, de um lado, aretomada, nos anos de 1975-1979, da resistência pública ao regime autoritário instauradocom o Golpe de 1964 e, de outro, já na fase de redemocratização, o processo de elaboraçãodo texto constitucional pela Assembleia Nacional Constituinte instalada em 1º de fevereirode 1987. A partir dessa contextualização, são abordados o sentido político-jurídico daConstituição de 1988, seus principais avanços relativos aos direitos fundamentais, àconstitucionalização de políticas públicas socioeconômicas, e à limitação dos poderespúblicos e privados. O objetivo é realçar o significado do “projeto civilizatório” traduzido notexto constitucional, e chamar a atenção para os desafios que a ordem constitucionaldemocrática enfrenta no período contemporâneo. Este ensaio foi o texto-base da AulaInaugural do Departamento de Direito da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Rio de Janeiro,ministrada pelo autor em 31 de agosto de 2023.
Produksi protein sel tunggal mikroalga (Chlorella vulgaris) menggunakan limbah ayam broiler dan aplikasinya dalam pakan
Authors: Iba Wa , Padang Crasilia Yanti , Sari Nilam , Ambardini Sri , Suriana Suriana
Published: January 2025

Protein sel tunggal dari mikroalga berpotensi digunakan dalam formulasi pakan ayam broiler. Mikroalga yang banyak dikembangkan saat ini salah satunya adalah Chlorella vulgaris. Penelitian bertujuan untuk menentukan konsentrasi C. vulgaris yang dikultur menggunakan media organik limbah ternak ayam broiler dan kandungan proteinnya dalam pakan. C. vulgaris dikultur menggunakan media organik dari feses ayam broiler dalam air laut pada 4 konsentrasi (10, 100, 1.000, dan 10.000 ppm). Kandungan protein C. vulgaris dan pakan dianalisis menggunakan metode Kjeldahl. Protein tertinggi diperoleh pada C. vulgaris dalam media feses ayam 10 ppm, yaitu 23,53%.  Biomassa mikroalga yang dikultur dalam media 10 ppm feses ayam ditambahkan dalam formulasi pakan ayam broiler pada konsentrasi yang berbeda, yaitu 0; 2,5; 5; 7,5 dan 10% dengan 3 kali ulangan. Kandungan protein tertinggi, yaitu 34,65% pada penambahan biomassa C. vulgaris 2,5%. Kandungan protein yang mendekati optimal untuk ayam broiler fase pre-starter dan starter yaitu 22,71% dan 24,06% diperoleh dengan penambahan tepung C. vulgaris 5 dan 7,5%.