bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AI’s black box and the supremacy of standards
Authors: Karasinski Murilo , Bez Birolo Candiotto Kleber
Published: April 2024

This article investigates the metaphor of the “black box” in artificial intelligence, a representation that often suggests that AI is an unfathomable power, politically uncontrollable and shrouded in an aura of opacity. While the concept of the “black box” is legitimate and applicable in deep neural networks due to the in- herent complexity of the process, it has also become a generic pretext for the perception, which we seek to critically analyze, that AI systems are inscrutable and out of control, as well as supposedly endowed with intel- ligence and creativity. To challenge these ideas, we will address what we call the supremacy of patterns and the two significant phenomena that result from it: enchanted determinism and the dictatorship of the past.
Green Computing
Authors: Shharma Mala
Published: April 2024

Green computing refers to strategies and procedures for creating, utilizing, and disposing of computer resources in an environmentally responsible manner while preserving overall computing performance. This entails using less hazardous materials, getting the most usage possible out of a product while using the least amount of energy possible, as well as making old items and garbage more reusable, recyclable, and biodegradable. Many businesses are making efforts to lessen the negative effects of their activities on the environment.
Water Resource Managements in Soil and Soilless Irrigation Systems Using AI Techniques
Authors: Jeya R. , Venkatakrishnan G. R. , Rengaraj R. , Rajalakshmi M. , Pradeep Mohan Kumar K. , Boopathi Sampath
Published: April 2024

This chapter explores the integration of AI techniques in water resource management for soil-based and soilless irrigation systems in agriculture. It emphasizes the importance of AI in optimizing water use and data-driven decision-making. AI-powered techniques like machine learning and predictive analytics enable precise water optimization. Soilless systems like hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponics also contribute to water efficiency. AI is crucial in weather forecasting, climate adaptation, crop water estimation, and water use optimization in water-stressed environments. The chapter discusses successful AI implementations, cost-benefit analysis, ethical, social, environmental considerations, equity, access, and sustainability. Future prospects, advancements, and challenges in AI techniques for water management are explored, emphasizing the need for AI adoption in water-efficient farming practices.
New Era Plant Disease Detection Techniques and Methodologies Using Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Sharma Sangita Devi , Sharma Aditi
Published: April 2024

Agriculture is a backbone for the monetary situation of a country. But plant disease is the principle drawback of agriculture because it reduces the first-class and amount of agriculture products. Disease detection through guide approach is highly priced and time consuming. To reap the most yield from the agriculture area, it is required that farmers need to be provided with the excellent era and methodologies. In this case, artificial intelligence is one of the era used significantly due to its capacity to perceive the issues, developing the proper motives for that, and to establish most appropriate answers for it. Artificial intelligence can act as a useful resource in addressing the illnesses of plants. The present review offers a short compare of the software of artificial intelligence in agriculture, its available techniques for agriculture, and highlights several strategies for the detection of plant disease in plant life.
Introduction to Antibacterial Drug Resistance
Authors: Jan Fatimah , Bashir Saika , Rehman Muneeb U.
Published: April 2024

This chapter provides an overview of antibacterial drug resistance, elucidating its mechanisms, implications for public health, and potential strategies to combat this escalating crisis. By understanding the fundamental aspects of antibacterial drug resistance, researchers, healthcare professionals, and policymakers can collaborate to develop effective measures for preserving the efficacy of antibiotics and safeguarding human health.
Mechanisms of Antibacterial Drug Resistance
Authors: Kaur Rajwinder , Bali Samriddhi , Bandral Shubhdeep Singh , Kaur Amrit , Choudhary Diksha , Saini Balraj , Chandrasekaran Balakumar
Published: April 2024

Antibacterial resistance is an escalating worldwide public health challenge with substantial ramifications for global well-being. It has emerged as a critical global health concern. As defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), antimicrobial resistance (AMR) denotes the capacity of microorganisms to endure antimicrobial therapies. Resistance mechanisms involve a change in the target site, efflux pumps, PBP mutation, Porin modification, and enzymatic inhibition. Factors influencing antibacterial resistance encompass inappropriate antibiotic use and environmental and biological factors. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics, coupled with the adaptive capabilities of bacteria, contribute to the emergence of resistant strains. This complex issue demands a multifaceted approach that includes responsible antibiotic use, the development of new therapeutic strategies, and enhanced surveillance measures.
Exploring the World of ß-Lactamase Inhibitors
Authors: Walia Aditya , Sharma Rajat , Rani Nidhi , Dahiya Randhir Singh
Published: April 2024

With the increased prevalence of gram-negative bacterial infections, for which there are some effective therapies, the significance of hydrolyzing β-lactamase enzymes is also rising in certain significant clinical issues. Since the arrival of antibiotics, antibiotics of β-lactams are regarded as the highly effective antimicrobial agent. The primary pathway responsible for acquired β-lactam resistance in Gram-negative organisms is β-lactamase synthesis. Four different classes, i.e., A, B, C, and D, of β-lactamases have been explained. Enzymes of class B can also be called metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) because they need a metal cofactor (for example, zinc in its natural form) to function. A, C, and D classes comprise of serine component as an activated center which catalyze the β-lactam ring hydrolysis via acyl-intermediate of serine. This chapter constitutes the knowledge of class A to D and brief about some of the β-lactamase inhibitors with their action mechanism.
Countering Aminoglycoside Modifying Enzymes
Authors: Tiwari Tushar , Nain Divya Pratap , Gaur Nisha , Sharma Eti
Published: April 2024

Aminoglycosides are a group of broad-spectrum antibiotics that progress the formation of antibiotic-resistant strains. As many microbes have the capability to encounter them with their diverse defense mechanisms, this shed light on the vulnerability of aminoglycosides as antibiotics. Consistent use of numerous antibiotics has resulted in multi drug resistant (MDR) strains, becoming the most sensitive and high-priority concern. The microbial resistance against aminoglycosides is due to Aminoglycoside modifying enzymes (AMEs), which improvise the chemical structure of aminoglycosides and cease the ability of the antibiotic to bind to its natural target site. Evolutionary processes make AMEs capable of resisting most natural and semi-synthetic antibiotics. Consequently, constructing AMEs inhibition strategies may block the modification of aminoglycosides by AMEs to counter the problem of MDR bacteria. This chapter provides insight into understanding aminoglycosides and AMEs interactions, which play a pivotal role in developing inhibitory strategies. It may be helpful to counter the threat of MDR.
Outer Membrane Permeability Enhancer
Authors: Shahanawaz Mo , Singh Kuldeep , Kushwaha Shom Prakash , Kumar Arun , Suvaiv  , Shafiurrahman
Published: April 2024

Bacterial resistance poses a significant threat to global healthcare systems and requires innovative solutions to combat this growing problem. In this context, the concept of outer membrane permeability enhancers has emerged as a promising strategy. The gram-negative bacteria's outer membrane acts as a robust defense mechanism, limiting the effectiveness of antibiotics. The introduction of outer membrane permeability enhancers aims to address this challenge by enhancing the permeability of the outer membrane, thus facilitating the entry of antibiotics into bacterial cells. In this chapter, the authors explore the intricacies of outer membrane permeability enhancers like EDTA, polymyxins, aminoglycosides, and tris or tris (hydroxymethyl) aminomethane and their potential impact on bacterial resistance. The outer membrane's composition, comprising lipopolysaccharides, proteins, and phospholipids, creates a formidable barrier that many antibiotics struggle to penetrate.
Targeting Microbial Biofilm
Authors: Waghamare Suresh
Published: April 2024

Microbial biofilms are complex communities of microorganisms that are embedded in a self-produced extracellular polymeric substance matrix. Biofilms can form on a variety of surfaces, including biological tissues, medical devices, and environmental surfaces. Biofilms are associated with a wide range of infections, including chronic wounds, medical device infections, and implant infections. Biofilms are difficult to treat with conventional antibiotics because the EPS matrix protects the bacteria from antibiotics and other antimicrobials. In addition, bacteria in biofilms are often metabolically dormant, which makes them less susceptible to antibiotics. As a result of these challenges, there is a growing need for new therapeutic strategies to target and eradicate biofilms. This chapter will discuss some of the current and emerging strategies for targeting microbial biofilms.
Nanotechnology-Based Approaches for Mitigating Antibacterial Resistance
Authors: Chauhan Shikha Baghel , Jasmine  , Singh Indu
Published: April 2024

The escalating crisis of antibacterial resistance demands innovative strategies that transcend traditional approaches. Nanotechnology offers a promising avenue for combating antibacterial resistance by providing precise and multifaceted interventions. This chapter explores the diverse applications of nanotechnology in mitigating antibacterial resistance. It delves into the mechanisms underlying nanomaterial-bacteria interactions, highlighting how engineered nanoparticles can disrupt resistance mechanisms and enhance the efficacy of existing antibiotics. Through an exploration of recent research and case studies, this chapter showcases the potential of nanotechnology to revolutionize antibacterial therapies and contribute to the global efforts against resistance. This chapter aims to provide an in-depth exploration of how nanotechnology can revolutionize antibacterial strategies by addressing resistance mechanisms, enhancing drug delivery, and enabling rapid diagnostics, while also discussing the ethical and societal considerations associated with these advancements.
Remote Virtual Sanctuary
Authors: Hai-Jew Shalin
Published: April 2024

2023 was an original year, with global humanity emerging from a deadly pandemic (COVID-19), facing the advent of artmaking generative AIs, and surviving in a time of geopolitical turmoil, economic and financial pressures, and social strife. What role does an online social network (built up around an artmaking generative AI platform) play for people in this present moment? How does the remote virtual community enable participants to seek various fulfillments? The web-facing Deep Dream Generator tool and platform has proven itself to be a powerful social space for many with rich immersions and remote social interactions. This work is a practice-led case study.
Artistic Expressions, Generative AI, and Legal Tapestry
Authors: Ghose Anuttama , Ali S. M. Aamir , Mishra Aayush Mayank
Published: April 2024

This study delves into the transformative impact of generative artificial intelligence (AI) on creative production, exploring the collaborative efforts of artists and cutting-edge technology. The convergence of human ingenuity and AI in artistic expression expands creative boundaries but introduces complex intellectual property (IP) challenges. Examining beyond visual art, the study reveals the intricate engagement between humans and advanced algorithms, offering a unique perspective on the creative process. The intersection of AI and creativity raises critical copyright concerns, challenging traditional concepts of authorship and infringement. Addressing the global scope of AI-generated art, the study advocates for a unified framework to navigate legal complexities and ensure ethical considerations in the evolving landscape of creative technology.
Layered Architecture of IoT
Authors: Maurya Satish Kumar , Pal Om Prakash , Sarvakar Ketan
Published: April 2024

This chapter provides a comprehensive exploration of the layered architecture on the internet of things (IoT) ecosystem. IoT has become integral to modern life, touching industries from healthcare to smart cities. The chapter begins with an introduction to IoT's significance and evolution. It then breaks down the architecture into key layers—perception, network, middleware, and application—explaining their roles, interactions, and security considerations. Real-world case studies offer practical insights, while discussions on emerging technologies and challenges provide a glimpse into IoT's future. This chapter equips readers with a fundamental understanding of IoT's layered architecture, encouraging them to participate in this dynamic field.
IoT-Enabled Secure and Intelligent Smart Healthcare
Authors: Shafik Wasswa
Published: April 2024

This study examines the complex array of impediments and potential advantages of internet of things (IoT)-enabled secure and intelligent smart healthcare devices (IESISHDs) associated with the shift towards enabling smart cities, motivated by the pressing necessity to address climate change and promote sustaining smart healthcare systems. This study looks at the technological, economic, and social problems that need to be solved in order to make cities smarter with IoT. It does this by reading a lot of scholarly sources. Most stupendously, it emphasizes the environmentally sustainable merits, potential for economic growth, and improvements in societal well-being that can arise from this transition. It further depicts selected case studies to demonstrate sustainable empirical evidence and provide policy recommendations. The paradigm is to assist governments and other stakeholders in effectively managing human-associated challenges to attain maximum sustainable value and an innovative healthcare future that guarantees worldwide prosperity and ecological welfare.
Sustainable Smart Transportation
Authors: Shiva Chandan Kumar , Vedik B. , Manoharan Geetha
Published: April 2024

In smart city planning and development, smart transportation integrates advanced technology with traditional transportation systems to maximise sustainability, safety, and efficiency. Intelligent transportation systems collect and analyse vehicle movement, traffic patterns, and other data using sensors, data analytics, and AI. This data can then be utilised to optimise transport systems, decreasing emissions, enhancing safety, alleviating traffic, and boosting quality of life. Intelligent transport, which improves transport network sustainability, efficiency, and security, could transform urban mobility, and elevate living standards. In this chapter, intelligent transportation systems and their benefits are extensively covered. Mobility-as-a-service platforms, connected and autonomous vehicles, and intelligent transportation networks are investigated as emerging transportation technologies. This chapter also discusses the policies and norms needed to install intelligent transport systems and the obstacles to their implementation.
A Comparative Analysis of the Soft Power of Iran and US in Post-Saddam Iraq
Authors: Omidi Ali , Emami Asma
Published: April 2024

Soft power as one manifestation of power allows countries to gain influence through means such as political values, cultural diplomacy, and foreign policy attitudes. Iraq has become a venue for influential players such as Iran and the US to exert their soft power after 2003. Iran employs shared religious ties with the Shiite population in Iraq, promotes its independent anti-imperialist foreign policy as a value, highlights the shared geography and historical memories between the two countries, and applies other similar elements to enhance its soft power. On the other hand, the United States employs cultural attractions and promotes values such as freedom, democracy, and human rights. The United States presents itself as an idealistic democratic archetype and encourages Iraq to emulate its model in the post-Saddam era. The aim of this chapter is to provide a comparison of soft power status of Iran and the US in the post-Saddam Iraq.
China's Soft Power Diplomacy in Vietnam
Authors: Chakraborty Mohor
Published: April 2024

China's economic rise, coupled with its military heft and soft power acculturation, stimulates a sense of enigma in international relations. The “Chinese dream” theorizes the realization of great national rejuvenation and comprehensive national power, and the BRI is ample evidence to this effect. This is discernible in the Southeast Asian region, demonstrated by China's credence and acceptability, notwithstanding the fact that many of these states share contested sovereignty claims with China in the disputed South China Sea. Vietnam's inclusion in the BRI offers a unique case study, as it endeavors to strike a harmonious balance between realism and neoliberal considerations of national interests. The BRI, in synergy with Vietnam's “Two Corridors, One Economic Circle” framework, offers the pedestal for bilateral cooperation. Given this backdrop, this chapter analyzes the dynamics, principal areas of cooperation within the BRI framework, and its social, political, and economic ramifications for Vietnam as well as on China's international image as facilitator of soft power.
Chinese Discursive Strategies During the Syrian Civil War
Authors: Grandpierron Matthieu , Pomès Eric
Published: April 2024

The Syrian situation crystallises all the questions related to the issue of the application of the responsibility to protect to sovereign states. It illustrates the delicate balance between the protection of human rights and international security. By contrast to the Russian position, China's has been more discreet and became more and more present in conjunction with the development of its geopolitical project Belt and Road Initiative. This chapter investigates all of these questions from the perspective of official Chinese discourses related to Syrian civil war. Beginning with the key assumption that what matters more to understanding how the Chinese view the international order is not what they say but how they say it, this chapter uses critical discourse analysis in order to unpack the implicit meanings of official Chinese narratives and views on the international order.
Chinese State Identity and Its Place in the International System
Authors: Chitadze Nika
Published: April 2024

In the chapter, the defining characteristics of the national identity of the Chinese nation are explored, arguing that it directly affects the formation of the Chinese worldview in international relations. To discuss China at a qualitatively new level, the chapter examines the hidden correlations between Chinese state identity and Chinese history and political philosophy. There are also discussed several religious directions in China, which have played the significant role in the formation of Chinese identity and Statehood of China.
Dominican Missionary Strategies in Ming and Qing China
Authors: Huang Zhicang
Published: April 2024

This chapter delves into the strategies employed by the Dominican Order in their missionary activities within the Ming and Qing dynasties of China. It underscores their initiatives to weave Western religious doctrines into the Chinese spiritual landscape, representing an early form of religious and cultural diplomacy. The engagement of the Order with local communities, their linguistic accomplishment, and their active involvement in the socio-political spheres of the region are explored in depth. Furthermore, the chapter scrutinized the social initiatives undertaken by the Order, particularly in relation to child welfare, and evaluates their impact on the social fabric of the era. Through a comprehensive investigation of the influence exerted by the Dominican Order in China, this study unveils the multifaceted nature of cultural exchange, shedding light on the lasting effects of these historical interactions on Sino-Iberian relations and the evolution of soft power dynamics.
Media's Role in Fostering the Belt and Road Initiative and Chinese Foreign Policy in the Arab Region
Authors: Qi Tianzhe , Hou Wei
Published: April 2024

The current study aims to investigate the role of media in fostering the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and serving Chinese foreign policy in the Arab region. The BRI, also known as the One Belt One Road initiative, is a Chinese government-led development strategy that aims to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through a network of infrastructure projects, trade, and investment. The Arab region is a significant part of the BRI, and China's engagement in the region has been increasing in recent years. However, little is known about how media in China and the Arab region present and shape the public perception of BRI and its implications on Chinese foreign policy in the region. The research question of this study is: “How do Chinese and Arab media present and shape the public perception of BRI in the Arab region and its implications on Chinese foreign policy?” The results of this study will provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of media in shaping the public perception of BRI and its impact on Chinese foreign policy in the Arab region.
Soft Power Diplomacy
Authors: Badawi Habib , Wattar Karim
Published: April 2024

In an epoch defined by China's staggering economic ascent, the global panorama witnesses an expansive sprawl of Beijing's interests, notably in regions as diverse as the Middle East and North Africa. Central to this burgeoning influence is China's deft and strategic employment of “soft power” strategies, fostering calculated and symbiotic “strategic partnerships” with Arab states. This diplomatic approach, characterized by nuanced elements such as non-interventionism, cultural dissemination, and collaborative economic ventures, stands as a linchpin in China's diplomatic toolkit. In the face of Western portrayals casting shadows of a “Chinese menace,” Beijing finds itself compelled to vehemently defend its peaceful policy objectives. Beyond mere economic gains, China's motives are laced with geopolitical and geostrategic considerations, adding layers of depth to its engagements. This meticulously orchestrated outreach encapsulates a significant facet of China's broader recalibration towards the Western sphere. This chapter undertakes a comprehensive exploration of the intricate and manifold facets of China's soft power diplomacy, offering a panoramic view of its profound influence extending across the intricate landscapes of Asia and the Middle East. Through a nuanced lens, it illuminates the mosaic of strategies, motivations, and implications that underpin China's burgeoning presence in these pivotal regions, painting a vivid tapestry of its ever-evolving global entrenchment. Various sources are used as support for the chapter. Press conferences, readings, academic journals, and scholarly articles are just some of the references found in the chapter. Additionally, expert opinions from well-renowned scholars were taken into consideration about China's growing influence in Asia and the Middle East in the fields of trade, technology, and politics. Furthermore, visual representations, such as images and graphs, are placed to facilitate selected aspects for the readers.
The Impact of China's Soft Power on the Educational Development of Young Mongolians
Authors: Buyandlai Enkhzul , Lkhagvajav Ariunaa , Bayartsogt Myadagmaa
Published: April 2024

The study examines the effectiveness of investing in higher education, specifically providing scholarships for Mongolian students, in the context of China's soft power in higher education. A combination of quantitative and qualitative data analysis techniques was employed to identify China's influence on Mongolian education. The questionnaire was used for gathering quantitative data. The satisfaction survey included eight variables including reliability, correlation, regression, and crosstabulation. During the interview, participants were asked seven questions about their study experience in China. Additionally, the case study evaluated the advantages and disadvantages of studying in China based on the personal experiences of the participants. The study concluded with a SWOT and TOWS analysis. This level of satisfaction can be determined by various factors such as education outcomes, economic efficiency, cultural and social improvement, comparison of education quality with other countries, personal needs or development, and overall satisfaction with education in China.
The Soft Power Impact of China in Strategic Competition With the United States in Vietnam
Authors: Le Hoang Kiet , Tran Hiep Xuan , Anh Minh Nguyen , Nguyễn Phúc
Published: April 2024

In the context of increasing strategic competition between the United States (US) and China in the Indo-Pacific region, soft power has become an important tool in implementing foreign policy, enhancing the overall national power, especially for emerging superpowers like China. To achieve the goal of becoming a global superpower comparable to the US, China has focused on increasing its soft power in countries with important geopolitical positions on the regional and global map. Accordingly, Vietnam is China's neighboring country with a strategic position for China's process of expanding its power in Southeast Asia. Therefore, Vietnam is one of the countries most strongly affected by China's strategy to increase its soft power in strategic competition with the US. This chapter aims to analyze the opportunities and challenges that China's strategy to increase its soft power brings to Vietnam through political-diplomatic, economic-commercial, cultural educational fields.
Promotion of an Antitumor Immune Program by a Tumor-specific, Complement-activating Antibody
Authors: Saxena Ruchi , Bushey Ryan T , Campa Michael J , Gottlin Elizabeth B , Guo Jian , Patz Edward F , He You-Wen
Published: April 2024

Tumor-targeting Abs can be used to initiate an antitumor immune program, which appears essential to achieve a long-term durable clinical response to cancer. We previously identified an anti–complement factor H (CFH) autoantibody associated with patients with early-stage non–small cell lung cancer. We cloned from their peripheral B cells an mAb, GT103, that specifically recognizes CFH on tumor cells. Although the underlying mechanisms are not well defined, GT103 targets a conformationally distinct CFH epitope that is created when CFH is associated with tumor cells, kills tumor cells in vitro, and has potent antitumor activity in vivo. In the effort to better understand how an Ab targeting a tumor epitope can promote an effective antitumor immune response, we used the syngeneic CMT167 lung tumor C57BL/6 mouse model, and we found that murinized GT103 (mGT103) activates complement and enhances antitumor immunity through multiple pathways. It creates a favorable tumor microenvironment by decreasing immunosuppressive regulatory T cells and myeloid-derived suppressor cells, enhances Ag-specific effector T cells, and has an additive antitumor effect with anti-PD-L1 mAb. Furthermore, the immune landscape of tumors from early-stage patients expressing the anti-CFH autoantibody is associated with an immunologically active tumor microenvironment. More broadly, our results using an mAb cloned from autoantibody-expressing B cells provides novel, to our knowledge, mechanistic insights into how a tumor-specific, complement-activating Ab can generate an immune program to kill tumor cells and inhibit tumor growth.
Damage-associated molecular patterns as a mechanism of sevoflurane-induced neuroinflammation in neonatal rodents
Authors: Joe Young-Eun , Jun Ji Hae , Oh Ju Eun , Lee Jeong-Rim
Published: April 2024

Background: General anesthesia is inevitable for pediatric patients undergoing surgery, though volatile anesthetic agents may cause neuroinflammation and neurodevelopmental impairment; however, the underlying pathophysiology remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the neuroinflammation mechanism in developing rat brains associated with sevoflurane exposure time, by identifying the specific damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) pathway and evaluating the effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in alleviating neuroinflammation.Methods: A three-step experiment was conducted to investigate neuroinflammation induced by sevoflurane. First, the exposure time required for sevoflurane to cause neuroinflammation was determined. Next, the specific pathways of DAMPs involved in neuroinflammation by sevoflurane were identified. Finally, the effects of NSAIDs on sevoflurane-induced neuroinflammation were investigated. The expression of various molecules in the rat brain were assessed using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blot analysis, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Results: In total, 112 rats (aged 7 days) were used, of which six rats expired during the experiment (mortality rate, 5.3%). Expression of CD68, HMGB-1, galectin-3, TLR4, TLR9, and phosphorylated NF-κB was significantly increased upon 6 h of sevoflurane exposure. Conversely, transcriptional levels of TNF-α and IL-6 significantly increased and IFN-γ significantly decreased after 6 h of sevoflurane exposure. Co-administration of NSAIDs with sevoflurane anesthesia significantly attenuated TNF-α and IL-6 levels and restored IFN-γ levels.Conclusions: In conclusion, 6 h of sevoflurane exposure induces neuroinflammation through the DAMPs pathway, HMGB-1, and galectin-3. Co-administration of ibuprofen reduced sevoflurane-induced neuroinflammation.
Comparison of scoring systems for predicting short- and long-term type 2 diabetes remission after bariatric surgery
Authors: Baldane Süleyman , Celik Murat , Korez Muslu Kazim , Yilmaz Huseyin , Abusoglu Sedat , Kebapcilar Levent , Alptekin Husnu
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Our study aimed to compare the short- and particularly long-term type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remission prediction abilities of ABCD, individualised metabolic surgery (IMS), DiaRem2, Ad-DiaRem and DiaBetter scoring systems in Turkish adult type 2 diabetic morbidly obese patients who underwent bariatric surgery.

Patients and Methods:

Our study was planned as a retrospective cohort study. A total of 137 patients with T2DM, including 78 sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and 59 Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) patients, were included in the 1st-year evaluation after bariatric surgery, and a total of 115 patients with T2DM, including 64 SG and 51 RYGB patients, were included in the evaluation at the end of the 5th year.

Results:

In the 1st year after bariatric surgery, area under the ROC curve (AUC) values for diabetes remission scores were 0.863 for Ad-DiaRem, 0.896 for DiaBetter, 0.840 for DiaRem2, 0.727 for ABCD and 0.836 for IMS. At 5 years after bariatric surgery, the AUC values for diabetes remission were 0.834 for Ad-DiaRem, 0.888 for DiaBetter, 0.794 for DiaRem2, 0.730 for ABCD and 0.878 for IMS.

Conclusions:

According to our study, the DiaBetter score provided a better AUC value than the other scores both in the short and long term but showed similar predictive performance to Ad-DiaRem in the short term and IMS in the long term. We believe that DiaBetter and Ad-DiaRem scores might be more appropriate for short-term assessment and DiaBetter and IMS scores for long-term remission assessment.
Uso das Informações do Orçamento de Desempenho em Municípios no Brasil
Authors: Azevedo Ricardo Rocha de , Pigatto José Alexandre Magrini
Published: April 2024

A pesquisa investiga quais fatores explicam o uso da informação de desempenho contida no processo orçamentário de Prefeituras Municipais. A análise foi realizada por meio de uma regressão OLS estimada a partir de dados coletados a partir de uma survey eletrônica com Prefeituras Municipais. Foi verificado que a legitimidade percebida, a estrutura do município, a transparência, e a participação social foram significantes para o uso das informações de desempenho no processo orçamentário. Por sua vez, as resistências políticas e de servidores não afetaram a utilização desse tipo de informação. Duas são as contribuições principais da pesquisa. Primeiro,  avança na literatura de orçamento por resultados, considerando-se a escassez de pesquisas em governos locais e que tragam a percepção dos responsáveis pelo processo orçamentário nessa temática. Segundo, contribui com a discussão do orçamento por desempenho no contexto nacional em contraposição a sua estagnação, que pode ser explicada inclusive, pela baixa utilização da sua informação. A pesquisa discute as implicações da estagnação do planejamento por resultados frente a sua institucionalização na da legislação orçamentária o que é apontado como consequência da baixa legitimidade desse tipo de informação em municípios brasileiros.
A Study on Museum Active Learning Methodology for Effective Art Museum Convergence Education for the Mild Disabled and Family Caregivers
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Yang Yeon Kyoung
Published: April 2024

This study presents the following objectives for the necessity of art museum activities necessary for the disabled and family caregivers. First, active art museum factors for people with mild disabilities and families are discovered. Second, we propose an active learning range centered on effectiveness and self-efficacy. Third, we find the Gap elements of art museum activity and present effective art museum service design. Fourth, we will build a museum active learning model that embraces both disabilities and non-disabilities. As a result of studying the special program of art museums centered on the last three years, Case-based learning is advantageous for the disabled, and family caregivers predict that Goal-based learning, Team-based learning, and Problem-based learning methods are effective. Disabled and family caregivers can try Flipped learning, Action learning, and Project-based learning together. The results of this study: First, there should be many cultural and artistic service programs by expanding public care for the developmentally disabled and the elderly with dementia. Second, m service design should help disabled people and their families with a sense of accomplishment, satisfaction, and social resilience. Third, art museum experience education services for the mildly disabled and their families should prioritize various activities, familiar living materials, and space accessibility
A Study on Characteristics of Experiential Factors of Upscale Boutique Hotels in South Korea: Based on Bernd Schmitt’s five experience modules
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Kim Junghee , Nah Ken
Published: April 2024

In the experience economy era, with a growing interest in unique boutique hotels in South Korea, this study explores the significance of “experience” in luxury boutique hotels. It examines two domestic hotel cases that successfully integrate rich experiential content to create exemplary luxury boutique hotel experiences. Data were collected through literature reviews and interviews with 14 participants who had visited each hotel. Each hotel's key contents were evaluated using a 5-point scale, resulting in a total of 70 evaluations. The analysis revealed that sensory and emotional aspects were the highest-rated experiential elements, while cognitive elements were rated the lowest. This research offers insights into the distribution of experiential elements in domestic luxury boutique hotels, aiding future development and planning, and guiding the identification of key experiential factors.
The mediating effect of engagement on the relationship between design typicality and brand trust of domestic shared electric bicycles
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Na Kyung Hoon
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study is to identify the mediating effect of consumer engagement in the relationship between design typicality and brand trust of shared electric bicycles, one of the emerging personal means of transportation, so-called personal mobility(PM). Through theoretical review, design typicality was divided into external and internal typicality. The case study analyzed form, color, logotype, and illustration corresponding to external typicality for shared electric bicycles of GCOO, SWING, and Xing Xing, and as a result, it was found that each brand is striving to secure its own identity. The empirical study verified the influence relationship between variables through the analysis of the structural equation model, and the results are as follows. First, it was found that the design typicality of shared electric bicycles had a positive and significant effect on brand trust. Second, the positive effect of design typicality of shared electric bicycles on consumer engagement was confirmed. Third, the positive influence relationship between consumer engagement and brand trust was found. Fourth, it was found that consumer engagement mediates the design typicality and brand trust of shared electric bicycles. This study is of great significance in that it provides theoretical and practical implications for smart mobility companies to respond quickly. It is expected that this study will serve as a stepping stone to provide the basis for related research in the future.
Spatial Pattern Analysis to Improve Urban Proximity through Metaverse-based Solution
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Chang Mi , Choi Daewoong , Yoon Daesub , Lee Ji-Hyun
Published: April 2024

This study proposes a method for addressing the limitations of physical proximity in real-world walking environments and focusing on Metaverse-based solutions. The first phase of the research entailed a community analysis centered on locations in Daejeon, through which problematic areas were identified and defined. The second phase involved conducting a survey among users of the Metaverse environment to explore methods of enhancing proximity. Based on these findings, the study developed three approaches to improve proximity in a Metaverse-based environment. It emphasizes the importance of objective data analysis and precise problem definition, underscoring the necessity of developing and designing solutions within the Metaverse environment. Moreover, the study suggests that to enhance user experiences in the Metaverse, a thorough analysis of regional characteristics is essential, followed by the development of tailored Metaverse solutions.
Proposing User-Centered HMI Design Guide for Digital Manufacturing: Focusing on PBF Metal Additive Manufacturing Machine
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Won Ga Eun , Kwon Hyosun
Published: April 2024

With the advancement of metal additive manufacturing technology and the digitization of equipment, the need for user-centered design in HMI (Human-Machine Interface) has become increasingly apparent. However, research on design guides and usability test for industrial equipment has been lacking. Therefore, this study applied user-centered design principles to design and manufacture a prototype HMI for metal additive manufacturing equipment, followed by a usability test of the HMI prototype. Based on usability testing and in-depth interview analysis, this study proposes UX/UI design guidelines for user-centered industrial equipment HMI. The usability evaluation highlighted the need to improve the visibility of the system's real-time status, enhance interface intuitiveness for error prevention, and address emergency situations. It is crucial that the interface reflects both the visible and invisible states of the equipment, considering that the operation targets are mechanical equipment but the operating devices are HMI screens. Furthermore, for industrial equipment with numerous complex functions, it is essential to restrict or guide user actions through permission settings. Through the industrial PBF (Powder Bed Fusion) method metal additive manufacturing equipment HMI design guides proposed by this study, we anticipate the development of user-friendly and productivity-enhancing HMI designs.
Analysis of Emotional Design Evaluation Factors in Blind Box Character Design
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Wang Run Qi , Jung Jung Ho
Published: April 2024

Recently, there has been an expansion in the development of new products based on consumer data, highlighting the growing importance of emotional design elements. Companies are exploring new evaluation methods for innovative character designs. This study proposes a model to assess and improve the emotional aspects of random box character designs. The methodology involved identifying emotional design elements and analyzing their importance through expert surveys using the AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) technique. The key elements identified were emotional empathy, creativity, sustainable value, and stability, each showing varying levels of importance. User satisfaction was measured using the IPA (Importance-Performance Analysis) technique and compared with AHP results, revealing that the 'HIRONO character' had higher satisfaction levels than the 'SOSKID character'. This research presents a systematic evaluation method for emotional design elements, expected to provide important guidelines for the development of innovative character designs and contribute to continuous design improvement.
A Study on the Impact of Art Therapy Characteristics on Treatment Acceptance Intentions: Focusing on China's MZ Generation
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Xu Chen , Koo Ja Joon
Published: April 2024

With the rapid development of digital technology, societal changes have a significant impact on mental health and behavior, particularly among China's MZ generation. Their unique life experiences and social backgrounds have led to a high concern for mental health and differing preferences for traditional psychological treatments. This study explores the influence of art therapy characteristics on the treatment acceptance intention of the Chinese MZ generation, focusing on non-verbal nature, form diversity, self-expressiveness, and safety. After reviewing relevant literature and analyzing representative cases, a research model and hypotheses are proposed. A questionnaire survey among the MZ generation with experience or acceptance of art therapy collects empirical data. Multiple regression analysis confirms the impact of art therapy's non-verbal nature, self-expressiveness, and safety on treatment acceptance intention (p-values: 0.000, 0.008, 0.000, respectively, all <0.05), indicating a positive effect. However, form diversity (p-value: 0.116) shows no significant impact, leading to the rejection of its hypothesis.
Exploring Application and Effectiveness of Character Design Education Program Using AI Based on Triarchic Theory of Intelligence
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Ko Eun Young , Nam Won Suk
Published: April 2024

AI has emerged as a key technology in the 4th Industrial Revolution, leading innovation in various fields. Various attempts using AI are also being made in the field of character design, and accordingly, the capabilities that designers should have are changing. However, design education programs using AI are currently insufficient in specialized high schools, and it is necessary to establish a character design curriculum using systematic AI. Therefore, this study attempted to develop a character design education program using AI based on Sternberg's ‘Ttriarchic Theory of Intelligence’ and analyze its educational effect. The research method laid the basic foundation for this study by examining the theoretical background of the expected educational effects of character design, AI, and Ttriarchic Theory of Intelligence through literature research, and investigating the necessity of a character design education program using AI through a survey. Based on this, character design education using AI based on Ttriarchic Theory of Intelligence was planned, and classes were conducted with a total of 12 sessions of AI character design education programs. Classes were held for about three weeks from November 6 to November 24, 2023, and as a result of conducting a satisfaction survey after the end of the class, the overall satisfaction with the class was 4.53, confirming the effectiveness of this design education program study.
Proposal for Utilizing Design Components in Vertical Educational Video Content: Centered on Vertical Media Platform Educational Content
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Kang Min Gu
Published: April 2024

The study analyzed user preferences and expressive characteristics of design components for vertically oriented educational video content on vertical media platforms. Through a literature review, theoretical background was established, and design components were derived. A case study on content from the Photoshop YouTube account and focus group interviews (FGI) involving five experts helped design evaluation criteria. An experiment with 48 participants measured their preferences and the importance of characteristics for each component. Results showed clear preferences for certain design components like screen, caption font, and sound. Specific expressive characteristics deemed important included 9:16 aspect ratio, top and bottom placement, outline clarity, text box readability, and voice clarity. Subsequent research aims to provide foundational data for vertically oriented educational video content production on vertical media platforms.
A study on Development of Mind Healing VR Content Design for Active Seniors
Authors:   Korea Institute of Design Research Society, Yang Je Hee , Jung Jung Ho
Published: April 2024

This study addresses the increasing psychological issues among the elderly in South Korea, including a rising suicide rate. The focus is on developing mind-healing VR content for active seniors, emphasizing the need for psychologically oriented care services. The research involves analyzing active seniors' characteristics, defining mind-healing, exploring VR content concepts, and proposing designs based on user surveys. Recommendations include diverse content development, interactive pet features, personalized guidance, and integrated management systems. The goal is to contribute to psychological health management in South Korea's aging society.