bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioprospecting of Limosilactobacillus fermentum Strain MH 2.3 for Anti-diabetic Properties: from Biochemical to Molecular Docking Approaches
Authors: Whatin Ulfa Febiana , Manguntungi Baso , Djamaludin Heder , Handoko Handoko , Vanggy Leggina Rezzy , Fenylestari Gita , Kusuma Ali Budhi
Published: July 2023

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by an increase in blood glucose beyond normal limits or hyperglycemia due to abnormalities in metabolic processes due to insulin deficiency. Acarbose is now widely used as a drug for people with diabetes mellitus. However, the use of acarbose can cause negative effects in the form of flatulence, diarrhea, and hypoglycemia. Alpha-glucosidase enzyme inhibitors are needed to treat diabetes. Lactic acid bacteria act as inhibitors of alpha-glucosidase activity. This study aimed to determine the presence of specialized metabolites with antidiabetic compounds harvested from Limosilactobacillus fermentum MH 2.3 culture filtrate using biochemical and molecular docking analyses. The use of molecular docking aims to predict ligand bonds and target proteins, which focuses on energy affinity and bond interactions. The results of alpha-glucosidase inhibition assay and molecular docking indicated that L. fermentum MH 2.3 is a prospective “gold mine” in search of novel anti-diabetic compounds. The highest antidiabetic activity, inhibition value of 551.2%, was obtained from the undiluted crude extract of L. fermentum strain MH 2.3 culture following the incubation at 37 ℃ for 72 h. Tert-butyl 3-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl) piperidine-1-carboxylate and benzylmaleimide were found to be the best ligand candidates, as they inhibits the alpha-glucoside activities by forming hydrogen interactions at the leucine residues (734A), similar residues found in its the native ligand. These results are supported by the respective lowest binding energy score of –4.5 kcal/mol when compared with the acarbose as the positive control. The docking was validated by estimating the RMSD values. This finding substantiates the evidence that bioprospecting novel bacterial strains provides a greater chance to discover unknown yet potential bioactive molecules for various biomedical purposes, one of which is a drug candidate to treat diabetic mellitus, which now is considered one of the most life-threatening global epidemics.
Phenotypic and Genotypic Characterization of the Virulence Factors and Antimicrobial Resistance of Enterobacteriaceae Isolates Associated with Clinical Mastitis in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Ancuelo Amily , Perez Rodney
Published: July 2023

Mastitis is a prevalent disease in dairy cattle. One of its important etiological agents is the species belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae family. Thus, this study aims to characterize the virulence and multi-drug resistance (MDR) profiles of Enterobacteriaceae strains previously isolated from dairy cattle with clinical mastitis in Region 4-A, Philippines. Results showed that 60% of Klebsiella pneumoniae and 100% of the Proteeae tribe (Proteus spp., Providencia spp., and Morganella spp.) exhibited hemolytic activity. Hemolysin-coding gene, viz. hpmA, was suspected to contribute to the hemolytic activity of all Proteus spp. Biofilm formation was observed in several isolates and mrkD, ireA, ucaA, atfA, and ureG genes were expected to be accountable for this virulence trait. All Enterobacteriaceae strains were classified as MDR pathogens. All isolates exhibited resistance to erythromycin, penicillin, clindamycin, and lincomycin. Resistance to streptomycin and tetracycline was also exhibited by a significant number of isolates and the resistance genes (rrs and tetK) responsible for this resistance were most frequently detected. Only one isolate of M. morganii harbored integron-related gene intI2. The characterization of these strains has significant health and economic implications. Severe virulence and drug resistance of these strains pose a challenge in the management and treatment of intramammary infections in dairy farms. Being reservoirs of antimicrobial resistance-associated genes, these strains pose a threat to the food chain.
Determinants of Underweight and Stunting among 6–59-months-old Indigenous Children in the Philippines
Authors: Viajar Rowena , Dorado Julieta , Maniego Ma. Lynell , Gulay Joanne Jette , Amita Patricia Isabel , Angeles-Agdeppa Imelda
Published: July 2023

Data on the nutrition and health situation of indigenous people (IPs) across groups in the Philippines is limited. This study determined the factors associated with underweight (UW) and stunting of 6–59-mo-old indigenous children utilizing the 2018 Expanded National Nutrition Survey data of the Department of Science and Technology’s Food and Nutrition Research Institute. The study participants were 1,173 indigenous people households and their 6–59-mo- old children covering 29 provinces and highly urbanized cities. Potential predictors of UW and stunting were examined using descriptive and logistic regression analyses. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that indigenous children 6–59-mo-old living in food-insecure households, with an unimproved source of drinking water, and with inadequate riboflavin intake were more likely to become UW than their counterparts. Likewise, indigenous children belonging to food-insecure households, children who have not undergone newborn screening, those with inadequate energy intake, and vitamin A deficient children were more likely to become stunted than their counterparts. Policy actions should focus on improving the indigenous people’s household food security and source of drinking water, child’s nutrient intake, vitamin A status, and participation in child’s health and nutrition programs. Participation in a vitamin A supplementation program and strengthening backyard gardening to increase accessibility and use of vitamin A-rich foods may help improve the vitamin A status of a child. A follow-up study exploring the behavioral barriers to IP households’ participation in health and nutrition programs among children under five is recommended.
Carbon Storage of Vegetation in the Different Land Uses of Mt. Musuan in Bukidnon, Philippines
Authors: Paquit Joseph , Amoroso Victor , Polinar Kleia Deinisa
Published: July 2023

Mt. Musuan is a mountain ecosystem that is valued for its biodiversity and ecotourism. In order to further enhance the biodiversity and ecotourism activities, the current status of its land uses and the carbon storage of its vegetation was assessed. Findings have shown four major ecosystems in the area – namely, natural forest, plantation forests, grass-shrubland, and agro-ecosystem – which respectively cover 16% (66 ha), 24% (103 ha), 39% (164 ha), and 20% (85 ha) of the mountain’s 425-ha total land area. Trails and physical facilities occupy the remaining 1%. Fifteen (15) land uses were delineated, wherein eight are forest plantations. The largest area was the G. arborea plantation that comprised 37% (38.23 ha), whereas the least was the P. caribaea plantation that only covers 0.7% (0.73 ha). The summit has an area of about 1800 m2, from which around 1000 m2 can be used by visitors for sightseeing and camping. The designated viewing area at the very top is much smaller and is estimated only at around 100 m2. In terms of vegetation carbon storage, the natural forest stores an estimated 208 Mg C ha–1. For the entire Mt. Musuan, an estimated 25,522 Mg C is stored, 47% (13,657 Mg C) of which is in the natural forest. The data and findings in this study will have potential use in planning. Based on the spatial pattern of the land uses, planners and implementers will be guided on where to put up development projects and investments related to biodiversity and ecotourism development. Effective management of the natural forest to protect its remaining biodiversity and carbon should be done. Accelerated rehabilitation of the grass-shrubland ecosystem should also be done to further enhance the biodiversity and ecotourism potential of the area, as well as its capacity to store carbon.
Review on the Real-time Implementation of IoT-enabled UAV in Precision Agriculture and the Overview of Collision Avoidance Strategies
Authors: Ganesan Tamilselvan , Jayarajan Niresh , Sureshkumar P.
Published: July 2023

Drone-based monitoring is very convenient and effective in the modern era for monitoring large and dense areas where humans cannot monitor efficiently. Precision agriculture (PA) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) monitoring techniques make farmers more protective and knowledgeable about their fields. Modern PA drone employs a 5G-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) that captures field data and transmits it to the cloud with extremely low latency to make quick decisions. From anywhere, farmers can keep an eye on their farms. Also, they have a choice of manual or automated methods for executing the proper data-driven actions. Smart farming is substantially more efficient than traditional farming. This article gives an in-depth analysis of UAVs’ real-time deployment of hardware, software, sensors, and IoT in agriculture for crop monitoring, weed identification, and collision avoidance. This research also covers the wide variety of collision avoidance algorithms utilized in both outdoor and interior conditions.
Nanoemulsion of the Mixture of Citronella Grass Distillation Waste and Piper aduncum Essential Oil to Control Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Lina Eka Candra , Holeng Henny Sonia Febrianty , Nelly Novri , Reflin Reflin , Ernis Gustria
Published: July 2023

Corn production in Indonesia is challenged by the attack of the new invasive pest fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda, Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). This pest is known to be resistant to many synthetic insecticides. Botanical insecticide with nanoemulsion formulation is an option to solve this problem because it was relatively eco-friendly, and the various active components delay insect resistance and insect resurgence. The objectives of this research are to determine the characteristics of the nanoemulsion of the mixture of spiked pepper (Piper aduncum) and citronella grass distillate waste (Cymbopogon nardus) and to test the insecticidal activity of nanoemulsion against Spodoptora frugiperda. The nanoemulsion formulation is made with the spontaneous emulsification method. The leaf dipping technique is applied at the nanoemulsion toxicity test on S. frugiperda larvae. Then, the nanoemulsion formulation is analyzed with PSA and Zetasizer Nano Malyern to measure the particle size and zeta potential. The result of the research shows that the nanoemulsion of the mixture of citronella grass waste and P. aduncum fruit oil has insecticide activity with LC50 = 0.53%. Additionally, it causes mortality and developmental delay in S. frugiperda larvae. The nanoemulsion particle is 273.1 nm. It has homogeneity and an even distribution.
Review on the Use of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi in Bioremediation of Heavy Metal Contaminated Soils in the Philippines
Authors: Trocio Dominique Ysabel , Paguntalan Diana
Published: July 2023

Heavy metal (HM) contamination is a global issue characterized by high concentrations of HMs beyond safe and tolerable standards. Plants may receive the brunt of their toxicity due to physiological uptake mechanisms and extreme consequences, leading to plant growth and yield impairment, plant parts system translocation, and eventually plant death. The introduction of these HMs into the food web may occur if not treated. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) treatment can potentially pose as a biological method to reduce HMs in local terrestrial soils. They are popularly known to enhance plant growth and yield and fortify plant resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. AMF has also been extensively probed to protect plants against the effects of HM toxicity. Through the systematic collection and summarization of multiple reliable scientific articles, this review reports that AMF are capable of alleviating HMs from the soil through various plant-assisted mechanisms. In this study, information on the current status of HM contamination in the country and the role of AMF as a sustainable tool to address this problem is explored. While increasing metal uptake, they are also able to improve plant metal stress tolerance by acting as a buffer, increasing the “dilution effect,” chelating HMs, and sequestering HM ions in their hyphal cells. In the Philippines, there is little knowledge of the status of HM contamination in the soil, but the majority of the studies reported HM contamination in multiple sites. Therefore, there is a need for the implementation of biological solutions such as the use of AMF, as well as further investigation of the outcomes of this innovation in different laboratory and field conditions.
Two New Species of Darkling Beetles of the Genus Gauromaia Pascoe, 1866 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Cnodalonini) from Central and Southern Mindanao with Updated Species Geographic Distribution and a Key to Species of the Philippine Fauna
Authors: Medina Milton Norman , Cudera Rizalyn , Villegas Jhonnel , Cabras Analyn
Published: July 2023

Two new species of Gauromaia from Mindanao Island Philippines are described and illustrated: G. dorsu Medina & Cabras sp. nov. and G. purpurea Medina & Cabras sp. nov. In total, seven species of the genus are distributed in the Philippine archipelago, five of which are known on Mindanao Island. An updated key to the species in the Philippines and species distribution is also included.
Effect of Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Saccharomyces cerevisiae Fermentation on the Pasting Properties of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas) Flour
Authors: Yuliana Neti , Nurdjanah Siti , Andaningrum Arifia Zulaika , Flores Floirendo
Published: July 2023

The modification effect of fermentation on the pasting properties of flours enhances their potential as functional ingredients in product development. As such, the fermentation of sweet potato (SP) may alter its pasting properties and thus enhance its application for new food product development. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of starter culture and fermentation time variations on the pasting profile and amylose content of SP flour. The starters used were Leuconostoc mesenteroides, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and a paired culture of Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Saccharomyces cerevisiae with a fermentation time of 24, 48, 72, and 96 h. Results obtained showed that fermentation starter variation had a significant effect (p < 0.01) on some pasting properties and amylose content of the SP. The highest peak viscosity of 1204 Brabender units (BU) was obtained from samples fermented with the paired culture of Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Based on these results, fermented SP flour possesses the potential to be applied to products that require a thickening property.
Enhanced Growth Performance of Bauhinia purpurea L. and Rhizosphere Soil Microbial Communities by Inoculation of Beneficial Microbes
Authors: Gestiada Emer , Aggangan Nelly
Published: July 2023

Bauhinia purpurea (belonging to Family Fabaceae-Leguminosae) is a small to medium-sized deciduous fast-growing tree that is very important in reforestation and agroforestry, and also used as fodder for livestock. This study investigated the influence of mycorrhizal inoculant with varying nitrogen-fixing bacteria (NFB) amendment levels on the growth performance of B. purpurea, the buildup of microbial communities in its rhizosphere soil, and root colonization in screenhouse conditions with UV plastic roofing, following a two-factor randomized complete block design. Factor 1 was the type of mycorrhizal inoculants applied on containerized seedlings grown in garden soil: AMF1 (MYKOCAP® or MCAP) and AMF2 (MYKORICH® or MRICH). Factor 2 was the rate of NFB (BioNTM) amendment (0 g, 5 g per seedling). At 90 d, MCAP + BioN treated plants were 37% taller than the MRICH + BioN treated ones (34 ± 0.50 cm). Seedlings with MCAP + BioN or MRICH + BioN had higher diameter increment; partitioned biomass from stems, lateral roots, and primary roots; root-shoot ratio; and root colonization than those without BioN and the control. Likewise, the NFB population was 276 and 126%, respectively higher with MCAP + BioN and MRICH + BioN than their counterparts without BioN. Contrarily, partitioned biomass from leaves, roots, and shoots, and the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) spore density were higher with AMF inoculants alone. Spore count was strongly positively correlated with primary root biomass (p = 0.013, r = 0.573), NFB buildup with height increment (p = 0.001, r = 0.708), and root colonization with diameter increment (p = 0.001, r = 0.805), total biomass (p = 0.023, r = 0.532), stem biomass (p = 0.001, r = 0.692), shoot biomass (p = 0.001, r = 0.698), primary root biomass (p = 0.029, r = 0.514), and root biomass (p = 0.005, r = 0.628). AMF and NFB symbiosis was inferred to have been developed, thereby promoting overall plant growth with an increased mycorrhizal root infection and NFB buildup, while the increased spore density contributed to enhanced primary root growth. Field verification trials must be conducted to determine the microbial fertilizer’s efficacy under abiotic and biotic stresses.
Prevention and Control Measures of Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Mueang Phitsanulok District, Thailand
Authors: Homsuwan Rungphetch , Kanokthet Thanach
Published: July 2023

Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral infection, primarily in infants and children aged younger than 5 yr. HFMD has been widely spread in Asia. Of the infected children, approximately 83% were caused by Coxsackievirus A16 and were relatively mild, but serious complications involving the central nervous system can occur due to Enterovirus 71. The purpose of this study was to develop social measures to prevent and control HFMD in Muang Phitsanulok District, Thailand. The multistage mixed method was conducted from February–December 2021 on 436 participants. Multiple regression was used to analyze the factors affecting HFMD prevention and control behaviors in the first phase, which were the caregiver’s attitude, family income, caregiver’s secondary education, and awareness of the disease situation. For the next step, the findings were taken back to communities and the social measures developed through community participation. The developed social measures were guideline-based and consisted of two parts: prevention and control of disease measures. The stakeholders were classified into five social sectors – including [1] caregiver; [2] nursery, early childhood development center, and kindergarten; [3] primary care unit; [4] the Bureau of Public Health and Environment Municipality; and [5] private sector. The social measures were considered in credibility and feasibility by nine experts in a connoisseurship seminar. Finally, the expert opinions were made congruent for all measures. The recommendation for improving HFMD prevention and control in the community is for low-income groups to support and promote HFMD prevention and control behaviors. All relevant sectors should conference together to inform the results of their operations and collaborative problems solving. In addition, effective communication channels should be developed for all sectors.
Comparative Study between Conventional and Converted Electric Tricycle
Authors: Orpilla Michael , Ibanez Arthur , Dumlao Florentina , Tolentino Harley
Published: July 2023

In the Philippines, tricycles are the most popular short-distance mode of transportation, and they are considered one of the major sources of air and noise pollution. Shifting to an electric tricycle (e-Trike) is seen as the solution, but it is hindered due to its high investment cost. One way to reduce the investment cost while having the benefit of an e-Trike is by converting the conventional tricycle to an electric tricycle (c-Trike). This study compares the performance and economic potential of conventional tricycles with the c-Trike. Mileage efficiency, climbing ability, and emissions are the factors considered in comparing these tricycles. The c-Trike has a better mileage efficiency of around 268 and 365% compared with 4- and 2- stroke counterparts, respectively. Climbing ability is tested considering different loads on the sloped roads available within Tuguegarao City. Due to the absence of a transmission, the c-Trike can only climb a 13-degree sloped road at a maximum load of 250 kg, compared to the 300 kg of the conventional tricycle, which limits its application to relatively flat terrain areas. The c-Trike emits half and a third less CO2 than the 2- and 4-stroke counterparts, respectively. Converting all 2-stroke units to c-Trike in Tuguegarao City will result in yearly environmental savings of around 16,000 tons of CO2. Economic analysis performed shows that the c-Trike is more economically feasible – having a 242.38% rate of investment (ROI), an 877,748.16 net present value (NPV), and a 0.41 payback period compared to 241.29%, 708,761.96, and 0.41 for conventional tricycles. The result of the study provides valuable input for the TODA operators, especially those with 2-stroke units, on which option is the most feasible as they are mandated to upgrade their tricycles. This could also be useful information for lawmakers in drafting legislation and policies supporting transportation modernization.
Color Test Kit for Detecting Organophosphate and Carbamate Pesticides by Using Esterase Extract from Honey Bees
Authors: Jaitham Udomsap , Yadoung Sumed , Wongta Anurak , Chuttong Bajaree , Danmek Khanchai , Hongsibsong Surat
Published: July 2023

Organophosphates (OPs) and carbamates (CMs) are two classes of pesticides that are widely used in agriculture, public health, and home pest control. Both OPs and CMs work by inhibiting the activity of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Analytical methods used for the detection of OPs and CMs can be costly, as they often require specialized equipment and experienced analysts. Therefore, it is necessary to develop low-cost, quick, and simple analytical techniques for OPs and CMs detection. This study developed a method for detecting OPs and CMs using esterase enzymes from honey bee heads and a colorimetric technique. The limits of detection (LODs) for OPs include dicrovos, mevinphos, azinophos-methyl, and chlorpyrifos with values of 0.005, 0.001, 0.02, and 0.02 mg/kg, respectively, and the LODs for CMs are carbaryl, ethiofencarb, oxamyl, and fenobucarb with values of 0.0008, 0.03, 0.01, and 0.09 mg/kg, respectively. Comparisons between the developed method and the GC-FPD showed no difference in detecting OPs and CMs residues in fruits and vegetables. This developed method can detect OPs and CMs residues in fruits and vegetables, which will help reduce costs and facilitate easy verification.
First Report of Hedychium flavescens Carey ex Roscoe (Zingiberaceae) in the Philippines
Authors: Mendez Noe , Dargantes Kent Sean Alan , Tobias Adriane
Published: July 2023

During expeditions in the province of Bukidnon, southern Philippines, populations of Hedychium flavescens Carey ex Roscoe – a major plant invader in New Zealand, Hawaii, and La Réunion – were documented. This paper formally reports the presence of H. flavescens, an escaped species with invasive potential in the country. The species was recorded in the municipalities of Impasug-ong and Maramag in Bukidnon in 2018 and 2020, respectively. H. flavescens is the third species of Hedychium in the Philippines, adding to the two previously known species – namely, H. coronarium Koenig and H. philippinense K.Schum. Information on its distribution, habitat and ecology, phenology, colored photographs, and key to different species of Hedychium in the Philippines are provided in this paper.
China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): A review of Internal and External Challenges
Authors: Saeed Muzamil , Gopang Khuda Dino
Published: July 2023

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is a strategy for the development of the economy of Pakistan. It is very beneficial from an economic and social point of view for both countries. This economic social and political plan has some roots in different sub-regions of Asia. It is famously called "Game Changer" and can change the fortune of Pakistan. It is very helpful for the infrastructure and connectivity to the rest of the world. It consists of different options and opportunities for the economy of Pakistan to have some serious problems internal and external. This research is basically an analysis of the economy of Pakistan having some internal and external challenges for the CPEC project and positive recommendations.
Impact of Financial Derivatives on Macro Economic Variables
Authors: Bhutto Fiaz Ahmed , Ghumro Ikhtiar Ali , Solangi Abdul Basit
Published: July 2023

Contracts using derivatives often lack the basic elements of contract theory. The derivatives' contingent character enables derivatives to be declared off-balance sheet; modeling-based derivative valuation is likewise a complicated process. Because of these flaws, derivatives have become a muddled financial instrument. The derivatives regulatory framework has a variety of problems, such as a large number of rules and regulators, which allows for regulatory arbitrage. Derivatives are undoubtedly a source of disruption in real-economy; inflation, high-scale speculation, interest rate and currency rate volatility, banking system and financial market instability, and so on, are all exacerbated when derivatives are present. In numerous economic meltdowns. Derivatives have also harmed corporations like hedge and Enron funds for example LTCM. Because of the enormous amount of derivatives trading, the Subprime Crisis became the Global Financial Crises of 2008. The dominance of derivatives trading has instilled enormous systemic risk in today's global financial system.
Mediating role of Thriving at Work for the relationship of Core Self Evaluation with Employee Job Engagement
Authors: Mahmood Tahir , Watoo Hummayun Raza Shakoor
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this research is to examine the impact of Core-Self Evaluation on Employee Job Engagement by examining the Mediating role of Thriving at Work. A questionnaire survey was utilized to collect the data from 165 employees working in the banks of Lahore.  Tests like Reliability, Correlation, and multiple linear regressions were used in the analysis. Mediation was tested by utilizing the Baron and Kenny method. Results revealed that Core-Self Evaluation has a positive impact on Employee Job Engagement and Core Self Evaluation is a positive insignificant impact on Thriving at Work. Moreover, Thriving at Work has a positive impact on employee job engagement. Additionally, Employee Job Engagement also partially mediates the relationship between Core Self Evaluation and Employee Job Engagement. In general, future research on the prproposedesearch will be carried out on the employees of other types of industries like the textile sector, hospitality industry a,nd health sector also. Because Thriving at Work only partially mediates the relation between Core Self Evaluation with Employee Job Engagement and it is preferable to incorporate additional potential mediators like psychological climate, job insecurity through career adaptability.
Linking Workplace Incivility with Employee Creativity
Authors: Chaudhry Hajra , Tahrim Fakhira , Ahmad Maqsood
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this research was to examine the impact of workplace incivility on employee creativity A questionnaire survey was utilized to collect the data from 315 female nurses of public and private hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. The results of the study indicated that workplace incivility has a significant negative effect on employee creativity. This research explores the phenomenon of workplace incivility and employee creativity in nurses which is infrequently addressed in developing countries. The key limitation of this research was the cross-sectional. This study was conducted in a hospital in one province; therefore, the data and results were specific to this location. This study recommends that the management should improve the work environment by enhancing the ethical climate and institutional policies to decrease workplace incivility in their organization.
Is History a Useful Guide for Decision Making: A Comparative Study of Decision Making in Bi-Polar and Uni-Polar World in the Context of Suez Crisis and Falkland Island War
Authors: Javed Maham , Bukhari Waqas Haider
Published: July 2023

To develop better understanding of world, history is necessary as it enables us to understand the world in which we live in more precise way. History can proved to be a driving force as well. It can play a very important role in decision making. But it’s not right to totally rely on it as circumstances changes with time. With changing circumstances requirements and criteria also change. New world structure which has emerged in last century is more state and ego centric than ever involved in competition under the umbrella of democracy which seems to be very fascinating but actually it’s leading world towards drastic end by creating trust deficit among states. So a decision which was a best suitable decision in one circumstance can’t always be a perfect fit for other situations because we know with changing circumstances requirements also change e.g. US has different policies in unipolar world than in bi-polar world. Developing knowledge and understanding of historical events and trends, specially over the past century enables us to develop a much greater understanding for current events but proper calculation is necessary. That’s why a critical rationality with proper reasoning is required for better and more relying decisions by decision makers. Before implementation it’s necessary to make sure that you are right and then go ahead as stated by ‘Davy Crockett’.
Emerging Trends in Curriculum Development and Evaluation in Pakistan at Higher Education Level: A Current Perspective of 21st Century
Authors: Khadim Madiha , Jamil Sadia , Rafiq Shahid
Published: July 2023

This study provides a current perspective on emerging trends in curriculum development and evaluation in Pakistan. Adopting an interpretivist paradigm and a qualitative research approach, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 teacher educators from six government universities in the Punjab province, and thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data. The study found a growing interest in skills-based learning and the use of technology to enhance teaching and learning. However, there are challenges to effective implementation, including limited access to technology and inadequate teacher training. The study also identified a need for more nuanced and context-specific methods of evaluating curriculum effectiveness in Pakistan. Based on the findings, recommendations are provided to enhance the quality and relevance of education in Pakistan, including incorporating skills-based learning, providing access to technology, enhancing teacher training, developing context-specific evaluation methods, encouraging collaboration and sharing of best practices, and supporting research and innovation. These recommendations aim to ensure that the education system is preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century and improving the quality of education in Pakistan.
Yeşil İşlerde Çalışan Mavi Yakalı İşgörenlerin Sürdürülebilirlik Farkındalıklarının İncelenmesi
Authors: BOZKURT Öznur
Published: July 2023

Bu araştırma sürdürülebilirlik faaliyetlerinin temelini oluşturan farkındalıkla ilgili olarak yapılmıştır. Sürdürülebilirlik farkındalığını bireysel düzeyde ele alan bu çalışma, yeşil işlerde çalışan mavi yakalı çalışanların konu ile ilgili farkındalıklarını değerlendirmek üzere yapılmıştır. Yeşil işlerden biri olan ve geri dönüşüm süreçlerini etkin kullanarak atık malzemenin üretime yeniden katılmasını sağlayan işletmelerin mavi yakalı olarak tabir edilen, üretim işçileri araştırmanın örneklemi oluşturmuştur. Nicel veriye dayalı olarak yapılan araştırmada yüz yüze toplanan anketler SPSS24 programı ile analiz edilmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda örneklem içinde yer alan katılımcıların sürdürülebilirlik farkındalıklarına yönelik genel algılarının orta derecede olduğu görülmüştür. Sürdürülebilirlik farkındalığının incelendiği üç alt boyuttan en düşük eğilim davranış boyutunda ortaya çıkmıştır. Bilgi boyutu ise en yüksek eğilime sahip değişken olmuştur. Sürdürülebilirlik farkındalığının diğer alt boyutu olan çevresel farkındalık ise orta dereceli bir eğilimin olduğu değişkendir. Araştırmaya katılanların gelirine, eğitim seviyesine, medeni durumuna, çocuk sahibi olma durumuna ve yaşına göre de sürdürülebilirlik farkındalıkları farklılık göstermektedir. Genel olarak değerlendirildiğinde, araştırmaya katılanların sürdürülebilirlik ile ilgili orta dereceli bilgi ve farkındalıkları bulunmakla birlikte, bunun davranışa yansıması noktasında düşük bir eğilim söz konusudur.
Geçmişten Geleceğe Kültür Bağı: Ehrama Dokunuşlar Sergisi
Authors: ÇEĞİNDİR Neşe , ARGA ŞAHİNOĞLU Meyrem , ÇİLEROĞLU Birsen
Published: July 2023

Bu çalışmada, 18-24 Temmuz 2022 tarihleri arasında 26. Bayburt Dede Korkut Uluslararası Kültür Sanat Şöleni kapsamında Bayburt Bedesten Sanat Galerisinde gerçekleştirilen “Ehrama Dokunuşlar” sergisine ilişkin ziyaretçi görüşlerinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Tarama modelinin kullanıldığı araştırmanın örneklemini, yukarıda açık olarak ifade edilen “Ehrama Dokunuşlar” isimli sergiyi ziyaret edenler evreninden; anketi cevaplamaya gönüllü olan 52 kişi ve bir Ehram Dokuma Ustası oluşturmaktadır. Katılımcıların görüşleri, anket ve görüşme formu ile alınmıştır. Bunların dışında, Bayburt Belediyesi kurumsal sosyal medya hesabı üzerinden ziyaretçi beğenileri de incelenmiştir.

Veri toplama araçlarından elde edilen bulgulara göre; “Ehrama Dokunuşlar Sergisi” ve başlığın altındaki alt etkinlikler, gerek fiziki sergi ziyaretçilerinin neredeyse tamamına yakınından gerekse Bayburt Belediyesinin resmi sosyal medya hesabını takip edenler tarafından oldukça iyi düzeyde beğeni almıştır. Ehramdan yeni ürünlerin üretilmesi konusunda hediyelik eşya ve aksesuarlar ön plandadır. Yeni nesillere Ehram dokuma kültürünün aktarımı, kullanımının sağlanmasına yönelik kapsamlı ve istihdam sağlayıcı projelere ihtiyaç göze çarpmaktadır.
The Study of Product Development from Sarong (Sinh) Fabric of San Kamphaeng, San Kamphaeng district, Chiang Mai Province
Authors: Chainan Chaicherd
Published: July 2023

Study and development of products from sarong (sinh) fabric of San Kamphaeng, San Kamphaeng Subdistrict, San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai Province has objectives: 1) to study the needs of entrepreneurs and target groups of Sarong (sinh) fabric of San Kamphaeng, 2) to develop product designs from sarong (sinh) fabric of San Kamphaeng, in conducting the research, the San Kamphaeng sarong fabric was used and applied to be bag products in various 3 types: handbag, shoulder bag and backpack by surveying the shape from experts’ opinions and Thai consumer group, tourists in the target area. The tools used in the research were Physical test result record form, Mechanical test result record form and evaluated products by experts and the consumer acceptance questionnaire data that were analysed from the assessment forms and questionnaires with descriptive statistics, including percentage, mean, and Standard Deviation.
The materials used to form the product structure were leather, steel, and bag making equipment to make the products were strong and more complete. When the products made from San Kamphaeng sarong were given to all 6 experts, they were evaluated that the developed San Kamphaeng sarong products with an overall average of 4.35 at a very satisfied level. Results from consumer group acceptance test evaluation, it was found that consumers accepted San Kamphaeng sarong fabric products which were the most accepted. In this regard, handbag products and shoulder bag products, the consumers accepted the same, with an overall average of 4.67 and backpack products with an overall average of 4.63.
Investigating the Relationship between Religious and Tourists' Perceptions of Temple Visitation Experience: Evidence from Phra Nakhon District Bangkok
Authors: Poltanee Issarapong , Boonphetkaew Umaporn
Published: July 2023

The objectives of this research are 1) to analyze the differences in religious tourism behaviors of Thai tourists in Phra Nakhon District, 2) to develop a structural equation model of religious tourism behaviors of Thai tourists. Data was collected, by using accidental sampling technique, with a sample of 400 people who were tourists and came to visit temples.
The results revealed that the relative chi-square (CMIN / DF) is 1.978, the conformity index GFI is 0.938, the CFI of the comparative conformity index CFI (Comparative Fit Index) is 0.980, (NFI) is 0.961 and the expected shift (RMSEA) is 0.050.
The results of the hypothesis testing which scrutinized the causal influence of image variables on experience, showed a significant direct impact. Furthermore, the experience component directly influences the satisfaction component. Additionally, the elements contributing to the willingness to spread the word were found to be statistically significant at the 0.001 level. This includes the importance of constructing floor features, such as ramps, to accommodate the needs of elderly tourists.
A Development Model of School Administration Towards the Next Normal
Authors: Puthaprasert Choocheep , Supising Jiraporn , Thammachai Prapan , Kosanpipat Sirimas , Phuvipadawat Somsak , Muntabutara Suwan
Published: July 2023

The objectives of this research were: 1) to investigate the current state and problems of school administration in the new normal to prepare the school for the next normal; 2) to analyze success factors and conditions of school administration towards the next normal; 3) to develop a model for school administration towards the next normal, and 4) to propose policy proposals and practical guidelines for school administration towards the next normal. The research was divided into four phases, as follows: 1) investigate the current state and problems in the new normal by using an in-depth interview with 29 administrators; 2) analyze the success factors and conditions by participating in the workshop of 11 informants; 3) develop a model by constructing, verifying, and evaluating it by attending connoisseurship; and 4) propose policy proposals and practical guidelines by conducting brainstorming discussions with 15 experts and a research team. The research results were as follows: 1) the current state and problems in the new normal have seven components: 1) Planning (P), 2) Organizing (O), 3) Staffing (S),             4) Directing (D), 5) Coordinating (C), 6) Reporting (R), and 7) Budgeting (B); 2) the success factors and conditions were administrators, educators, and school boards must work together to ensure the overall academic progress of students, technology, and communications were playing an important role in helping people adapt to the next normal; 3) a model consisted of a principle, objectives, operational approaches, an evaluation, and conditions for achievement; and 4) policy proposal and practical guidelines were the government should implement an entirely new policy to establish strategies for school administration towards the next normal and the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) and directors of the Educational Service Area should lead the school administrators and affiliate agencies to apply strategies into practices for school administration towards the next normal.
Orthogonal Polynomials Based Operational Matrices with Applications to Bagley-Torvik Fractional Derivative Differential Equations
Authors: Talib Imran , Özger Faruk
Published: July 2023

Orthogonal polynomials are the natural way to express the elements of the inner product spaces as an infinite sum of orthonormal basis sets. The construction and development of the many important numerical algorithms are based on the operational matrices of orthogonal polynomials including spectral tau, spectral collocation, and operational matrices approach are few of them. The widely used orthogonal polynomials are Legendre, Jacobi, and Chebyshev. However, only a few papers are available where the Hermite polynomials (HPs) were exploited to solve numerically the differential equations. The notable characteristic of the HPs is its ability to approximate the square-integrable functions on the entire real line. The prime objective of this chapter is to introduce the two new generalized operational matrices of HPs which are developed in the sense of the Riemann-Liouville fractional-order integral operator and Hilfer fractional-order derivative operator. The newly derived operational matrices are further used to construct a numerical algorithm for solving the Bagley--Trovik types fractional derivative differential equations (FDDE). Moreover, the results obtained by using the proposed algorithm are compared with the results obtained otherwise to demonstrate the efficiency and accuracy of the proposed numerical algorithm. Some examples are solved for application purposes.
Examination of the Relationship Between Severity of Addiction and Personality: The Mediating Effect of Social Alienation and Emotional, Cognitive Regulation
Authors: Ghavidast Mahdi , Hassanvandi Saba
Published: July 2023

Background: The current research investigated the mediating roles of social alienation and emotional and cognitive regulation in the relation between personality and severity of substance abuse in students. This study is a descriptive-correlational research design. Objectives: This study, used a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach to evaluate the correlates of the severity of the addiction. This path analytical strategy allowed for the simultaneous examination of the mentioned variables. Methods: The sample of this study included all students in Tehran province (the academic year of 2022). Five hundred fifty students took part in the current research. NEO-PI-R, social alienation, and the Severity of Dependence Scale (SDS) were used. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and structural equation modeling. Results: Considering that the model fit indices represent a good fit of the model and the mean root square of the estimation error (RMSEA) was equal to 0.029, which shows a very good fit, and according to the presented indicators, the research model is confirmed. The results indicate that the relationship between variables is significant (P value 0.05). The direct effect of personality on the severity of addiction and social isolation is equal to -0.68 and -0.73, respectively, and in terms of cognitive emotion regulation is estimated to be 0.85. The indirect effect of personality on addiction severity was calculated at 0.86 by social alienation and -0.79 by emotional cognition. Conclusions: Our results suggest that personality features mediated by social alienation and emotional and cognitive regulation can be used to predict the severity of the addiction. Therefore, the proposed model was cleared to be an appropriate model for predicting substance abuse in students.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Alexithymia, and Defense Mechanisms Among Medical Students of Northeastern Iran
Authors: Aryan Hossein , Faridhosseini Farhad , Gharavi Morteza , Tamiztousi Tanin , Ziaee Maliheh
Published: July 2023

Background: Defense mechanisms are essential to personality and behavior that help individuals deal with stress. These mechanisms might act in different ways, rendering medical students caring physicians or egoistic individuals, and thus, a good understanding of defense mechanisms can contribute to the efforts made to improve the psychological well-being of medical students. Objectives: We studied the prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and alexithymia as determinants of psychological well-being and the mechanisms by which medical students might cope with stress and anxiety. Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 232 medical students, 126 (60%) females and 96 (40%) males, in northeast Iran. Data were collected through GAD-7, the Farsi version of the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (FTAS-20), and the Defense Styles Questionnaire (DSQ-40). Statistical analysis was performed with IBM SPSS 22.0. Pearson's chi-square test, bivariate correlations, and multiple linear regression analysis were used to identify associations between GAD, alexithymia, and defense mechanisms. Results: A total of 87 (37.5%) participants showed moderate to severe anxiety. Alexithymia was detected in 49 (21%) participants. Mature defense mechanisms had the highest prevalence among participants (56.5%), while immature mechanisms had the least (23.3%). A significant positive correlation was noted between GAD and alexithymia. Also, GAD was positively correlated with immature and neurotic defense mechanisms (P < 0.05). A negative correlation was found between mature defense mechanisms and GAD (P < 0.001). Suppression and humor (mature mechanisms) were the negative predictors of GAD. Reaction formation, somatization, autistic fantasy, splitting, passive aggression, displacement, and pseudo-altruism (an immature and neurotic mechanism) were the positive predictors of GAD. Conclusions: The statistically significant correlations found among GAD, alexithymia, and defense mechanisms suggest that a good understanding of these conditions and mechanisms can contribute to alleviating anxiety among medical students and improving their psychological well-being.
Sexuality and Attachment Styles as Predictors of Romantic Jealousy Among Women in Edo State, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ariyo Joy Osagiator , Akinnawo Ebenezer Olutope , Akpunne Bede Chinonye
Published: July 2023

Background: Increasing rates of violence in romantic relationships have been reported to relate to jealousy. Romantic jealousy may have protective or deleterious effects on relationships depending on the scope, severity, and influence of sexuality, attachment styles, and inherent socio-demographic correlates. Developing effective strategies for improving the quality of romantic relationships requires a thorough understanding of the dynamics of romantic jealousy. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the effects of sexuality and attachment styles on romantic jealousy among female nurses in Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the nurses (n = 468) from four hospitals in two local government areas in Edo State, Nigeria, were investigated. Participants were asked to complete a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Multidimensional Romantic Jealousy Scale, Multi-dimensional Sexuality Scale, and Adult Attachment Scale. Results: Minority of the participants reported severe forms of romantic jealousy across domains (i.e., cognitive (16%), emotional (15.8%), and behavioral (17%)). While increasing age predicted cognitive jealousy, attachment styles, and sexuality jointly predicted all domains of romantic jealousy (R = 0.35, R2 = 0.12, F (11, 456) = 5.87, P < 0.01) among the participants. Conclusions: In sum, romantic jealousy was infrequent among our study participants. Patterns of attachment styles and sexuality were found capable of predicting romantic jealousy.