bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of space, time and night-time light intensity on antenatal care coverage in Bangladesh
Authors: Baffour Bernard , Das Sumonkanti , Talukder Ashis , Richardson Alice
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a small area estimation approach to assess trends in antenatal care (ANC) coverage among reproductive-age women in Bangladesh at various disaggregated levels. A multinomial multilevel time-series model is developed using district (admin-2) level ANC coverage data, categorizing women into three groups: (i) those with no ANC visits (ANC0), (ii) those with 1-3 visits (ANC123), and (iii) those with four or more visits (ANC4 +). The model accounts for the distinct behavioral profiles of each group in relation to factors influencing maternal health coverage, using remote-sensed night-time light intensity data to provide improved estimates. Our proposed small area model-based estimators incorporate significant social, economic, and geographical disparities, allowing us to identify regions exhibiting progress, stagnation, or decline. The model-based estimates demonstrate improved precision over direct estimates and provide valuable insights for designing targeted interventions to maximize impact. Additionally, a 1 spatio-temporal extension of the multinomial multilevel logistic model has yielded further refined estimates, helping to uncover disparities in the trends of maternal health care access. In Bangladesh, as in many developing countries, the health system operates under a decentralized structure, making district-level statistics crucial for localized planning and decision-making to ensure health equity.
Roman Loimeier: Ethnologie. Berlin 2021
Authors: Mischek Udo
Published: February 2025

Buchbesprechung
Richard Price: Inside/outside. Athens 2022
Authors: Rossbach de Olmos Lioba
Published: February 2025

Buchbesprechung
Helga Diallo, geb. Kreutzinger (1926–1991)
Authors: Greifeld Katarina
Published: February 2025

Nekrolog
Brief an Fritz
Authors: Bumke Peter
Published: February 2025

Nekrolog
Drop tower impact rig to assess the effectiveness of suspension seat for small high-speed passenger craft
Authors:   School of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia, Ikram Bin Abd Samad Faisal ,   Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian Institute of Marine Engineering Technology, Lumut, Perak, Malaysia, Yuzri Bin Mohd Yusop Mohd ,   Universiti Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian Institute of Marine Engineering Technology, Lumut, Perak, Malaysia, Mohd Ridzuan Bin Shaharuddin Nik ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia,   Marine Technology Centre, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia, Bin Yaakob Omar ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia,   Marine Technology Centre, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Johor, Malaysia
Published: February 2025

This work aims to design a drop tower impact rig to examine the effectiveness of suspension seats for small high-speed passenger crafts and to evaluate whether the designed suspension seat can effectively mitigate the slamming impact on passengers and lower the risk of injuries. A drop tower was fabricated, and drop tests were conducted at different drop heights to simulate base impact acceleration between the range of 3g to 7g. Acceleration data captured using accelerometers were low pass filtered accordingly, and the seat effectiveness and safety were analyzed using the Dynamic Response Index (DRI). The seat's stiffness was experimentally and theoretically analyzed using Hooke's Law, and damping values were analyzed using the logarithmic decrement method. The results revealed that DRI values, limited to 18, can only be attained with deck acceleration of less than 6.73g. The tested suspension seat reduced the impact severity by 54 %. This impact mitigation is achievable with an underdamped system of average stiffness and damping rates of 64.8 kN/m and 211 Ns/m, respectively. The research has successfully proved that the fabricated drop tower could simulate the base impact acceleration of desired slamming impact acceleration according to drop heights and that the designed suspension seat can mitigate the severity of the slamming impact effectively.
Methods of extraction, separation and identification of cyclic peptides from flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.): A review
Authors: Sobolev R. V. , Sokolov I. E. , Petrov N. A. , Sarkisyan V. А. , Kochetkova A. A.
Published: February 2025

Oilseed flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) is a valuable crop characterized by a high content of fats, dietary fiber, protein and various biologically active substances, in particular cyclopeptides. Cyclic peptides are a group of cyclic hydrophobic peptides consisting of eight to ten amino acids with a molecular weight in the range of 950–2300 Da. Flax oil and seeds contain from 0.1 to 0.3% cyclopeptides, which can exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunosuppressive, antihypertensive and antitumor activity. The aim of this review was to systematize and summarize the available literature data on methods of extraction, separation and identification of cyclopeptides from flaxseed oil. It was found that the main methods for obtaining cyclopeptides are solid-liquid, liquid-liquid or solid-phase extraction. Commonly used solvents include methanol, hexane, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, acetonitrile and deionized water. Preparative flash chromatography on silica gel or polymer adsorbents is used to purify and concentrate cyclopeptides, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is used to obtain individual standards. The most commonly used stationary phases are non-polar modified sorbents — octadecyl (C18) and phenylhexyl functional groups. Identification is carried out using instrumental methods of analysis: IR spectroscopy, NMR, HPLC with a diode array detector (HPLC-PDA/DAD), high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization (ESI-HR-MS/MS). For the qualitative and quantitative determination of cyclopeptides, the HPLC with a diode array detector at a wavelength of 214 nm is sufficient. In turn, mass spectral methods, including tandem mass spectrometry, make it possible to confirm the qualitative composition and establish the amino acid sequence of cyclic peptides.
Proteomic methods for separation and identification of milk proteins
Authors: Lepilkina O. V. , Grigorieva A. I.
Published: February 2025

The review presents the most common proteomics methods based on separation and identification of proteins, with examples of their use for studying the protein system of milk and dairy products. The essence of electrophoretic and chromatographic methods for separating proteins and peptides and their identification using Western blotting and mass spectrometry is described. The main types of electrophoresis methods (native, two-dimensional, in polyacrylamide gel with urea, immunoelectrophoresis, capillary) and chromatography methods (gas, liquid, ion exchange, gel filtration, affinity) are given. It is noted that the main direction of research using these methods, which has both scientific and applied significance, is the detection of falsifications in the composition of milk and dairy products. Such falsifications are associated with the deliberate addition of dry milk and cheese whey, as well as with the replacement of raw milk by milk from other animals, which is unacceptable in the production of cheeses with a protected designation of origin (PDO) or a protected geographical indication (PGI). Another area is research into the proteolytic processes that occur during the maturation of cheeses, on the basis of which their degree of maturity and species can be determined depending on the manufacturing technology. Given the wide range of cheeses from different countries, such research is clearly insufficient.
Influence of storage duration on the amount of iodine in food ingredients
Authors: Dydykin A. S. , Zubarev Yu. N. , Logunova E. I. , Samoylova A. M. , Kalugina Z. I.
Published: February 2025

Iodine has an undeniable effect on the vital systems of the human body, and its deficiency or excess can have harmful consequences. Measures for the mass prevention of iodine deficiency diseases mainly include the fortification of publicly available food products with iodine-containing food ingredients. The results of the study showed that the amount of iodine in ingredients such as iodized salt and dried kelp can decrease during storage, even if storage conditions and expiration dates are met. Quantitative analysis of iodine and iodotyrosines in dietary supplements containing the organic form of iodine showed good stability of the compounds throughout the shelf life. Quantitative analysis of molecular iodine in the objects was carried out using the voltammetric method, based on the results of which “box-and-whisker” diagrams were compiled, displaying the measurement error, with a tendency for iodine in the research objects to decrease during storage. Quantitative analysis of the organic form of iodine (iodotyrosines) was carried out by high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrophotometric detection. Based on the results obtained, histograms were compiled, reflecting changes in the ratio of monoiodotyrosines and diiodotyrosines and a decrease in the concentration of iodotyrosines depending on the shelf life.
Influence of microbiological risks associated with spore-forming microflora on the quality and storability of butter from different production methods
Authors: Sviridenko G. M. , Zakharova M. B. , Topnikova E. V.
Published: February 2025

The article presents the results of studies of the effect of spore-forming bacteria on the quality and storability of butter depending on the method of its production  — cream churning (CC) or high-fat cream transformation (HFCT). A simulation approach was used in conducting the research, including the following stages: reduction of microbial contamination of raw cream and its contamination with a test culture of spore-forming microorganisms; production of butter according to existing technological schemes; control over the development of the test culture at the stages of production and storage of butter. The objects of the study were: cream before and after pasteurization; pasteurized cream contaminated with a test culture of Bacillus subtilis; butter made by CC and HFCT from contaminated cream. Storage of butter samples was carried out at temperatures of 3±2 °C, 10±1 °C and 25±1 °C. The quality and storability of butter were assessed taking into account significant rejection criteria reflecting the requirements of standardization documents. For this purpose, microbiological and physicochemical indicators were determined using standardized methods, including the content of vegetative cells and spore forms of the Bacillus subtilis test culture, milk plasma acidity, and indicators of oxidative spoilage of the fat phase. Organoleptic indicators were assessed by taste, smell, consistency, and appearance. As a result of the studies, it was established that during the production and storage of butter, the greatest microbiological risks associated with spore-forming bacteria of the genus Bacillus and leading to a decrease in its quality and storability were observed during production by the churning method, which is due to the technological features of production (duration of processes, temperature conditions). When producing butter using the HFCT method, the risks associated with spore-forming aerobic microorganisms were less significant. This ensures long-term preservation of the initial safety and quality indicators of butter at a regulated temperature of 3±2 °C, as well as higher storability at elevated storage temperatures in comparison with butter produced using the churning method.
Improvement and quality evaluation of rutab date paste fortified with wheat germ
Authors: Dyab A. S. , Atieya Kh. M. , Abdel Salam M. A.
Published: February 2025

This investigation aimed to utilize wheat germ to improve the nutritional value and sensory properties of date pastes. Wheat germ was added to the soft date paste at different concentrations (5, 10%, and 15%). Chemical composition, bioactive compounds, browning index, fatty acids, microbiological quality, and peroxide values were estimated. Substitution with wheat germ significantly increased the ash, protein, and fat contents of the treatments, and decreased total sugars and total carbohydrates. In addition, the incorporation of wheat germ into the date paste led to a decrease in water activity. The color index of fortified date paste was improved and unsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid, increased. A reduction in the total bacterial, yeast, and mold counts was observed. The highest score of the index of acceptance was recorded for 15%, followed by 10% and 5%, and the lowest score was for the control sample.
Survey of students’ experiences of bovine externships
Authors: Gibbons Phillippa , Koziol Jennifer , Anderson Arn
Published: February 2025

Externships are an important adjunct aspect of veterinary students’ learning experiences to refine and improve tech­nical skills, experience other areas of practice and to meet potential employers. Externships are highly variable in re­quirement by the veterinary schools and may overlap with rotations in a distributive model program. In efforts to better understand externship experiences of clinical year, student members of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners were asked to respond to a survey detailing up to 2 bovine externships that they had undertaken. Students answered questions regarding the practice itself, skills they performed and how the externship was structured. Seventy-five students from 33 institutions completed details for 1 externship, with 19 students completing information for 2 externships. The most frequent sector of the bovine industry experienced was cow-calf followed by dairy. Overall top skills that were per­formed included history taking, transrectal palpation, tran­srectal ultrasound, physical examination and left displaced abomasal surgeries. The survey revealed key insights into stu­dents’ externship expectations in bovine practice, including their reasons for participation, skills gained, and externship structure. Students from distributive model schools reported externships with more structure primarily in receiving orien­tation. The findings emphasize the importance of designing externships that meet both student learning needs and prac­tice goals, benefiting both students and practitioners.
STUDY OF FACTORS AFFECTING SARCOPENIA IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS
Authors:   Professor, Department of General Medicine, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute., K. Ravi , Raghu Sidharth ,   Post Graduate, Department of General Medicine, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute., Kishor Naval ,   Post Graduate, Department of General Medicine, Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute.
Published: February 2025

Patients with type 2 diabetesmellitus frequently developed sarcopenia, a chronic complication, and prior research produced conflicting findings regarding the incidence and risk factors of sarcopenia in T2DM.

Objectives:Thisstudy aims to determine frequency of sarcopenia in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and to determine factors affecting sarcopenia in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Methods: After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 151 T2DM patients were included in the cross sectional study that was carried out in hospitals attached to Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute. The patients baseline information was documented in a predefined format and patients were screened for presence of sarcopeniausing SARC-F (sluggishness, assistance in walking, rising from a chair, climb stairs, falls) score. Different groups were compared using chi square/ ANOVA /t-test according to the type of data. All the parameters were compared between patients with and without sarcopenia. P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. R version 4.1.2 statistical software was used for the statistical analyses.

Results:The study included 151 T2DM patients in total. Sarcopenia was common among T2DM patients, with 38% prevalence. Elderly age, female gender, chronic hyperglycemia (higher HbA1c), and hypertension were all significant risk factors for sarcopenia.

Conclusion:Patients with T2DM often experienced sarcopenia. Significant risk factors for Sarcopenia included advanced age, female gender, hypertension, chronic hyperglycemia, and a diet low in nutrients.
UNDERSTANDING PSYCHOSOCIAL MATURITY THROUGH DERMATOGLYPHICS: A QUANTITATIVE PERSPECTIVE
Authors:   Student, Department of Genetics,National Institute of Medical Sciences, Jaipur, Rajasthan., Lenka P. , Singh D. ,   Student, Department of Medical Biotechnology, National Institute of Medical Sciences, Jaipur, Rajasthan., Rani R. ,   Student, Department of Microbiology, National Institute of Medical Sciences, Jaipur, Rajasthan., Rout S. S. ,   Student, Department of Biotechnology, Dayanand Sagar University, Bangalore, Karnataka., Subramanya N. ,   Associate Professor, Department of Biotechnology, Padmashree Institute of Management and Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka.
Published: February 2025

Transitioning from adolescence into adulthood, the youth have to face numerous challenges and navigate through adolescence and into their early 20s in order to do so they have to develop sufficient psychosocial maturity (PM) [5]. However, due to inadequate development during adolescence and early adulthood, the emotional and social aspects of maturity are not well understood [15].This study examines the correlation between a model of psychosocial maturity (PM) [6] and dermatoglyphic patterns. Thus, this study offers a new perspective on the dual role of genetic and environmental factors in the development of maturity [22]. The data was collected from university students, in the age group 18-25 over a three-month period. The factors considered for determining psychosocial maturity include, self-esteem, openness to change, independence, and social tolerance. Dermatoglyphic patterns of the subjects were examined to assess the correlation with these psychosocial traits.The study revealed a considerable correlation between PM and dermatoglyphic patterns. This predicted that the maturity of an individual may be based on genetic predisposition, yet, environmental factors play a much larger role in shaping it. These findings further contribute to the understanding of environmental and genetic factors in social and emotional development.
Organic positioning strategies and digital consumer behavior: A study in Peru’s real estate sector
Authors: Deza-De-Souza-Ferreyra Socrates , Jeanett Ramos-Cavero Maria , Cordova-Buiza Franklin
Published: February 2025

This study examined the relationship between organic positioning strategies and the behavior of digital consumers in real estate companies in Peru, a topic of growing importance given the expanding role of digital marketing in the real estate sector. The primary objective was to determine the effectiveness of SEO strategies in influencing consumer behavior. A quantitative methodology was adopted, employing a non-experimental, cross-sectional, and correlational design. 100 real estate SEO experts in Peru, who were recruited from LinkedIn, were surveyed. Data were collected through surveys, and the analysis was conducted using the SPSS statistical software. The findings revealed that brand awareness, keyword analysis, and marketing strategy are pivotal components in the development of successful SEO approaches. Simultaneously, factors such as brand awareness, marketing performance, and brand interaction emerged as critical influencers of digital consumer behavior. The statistical analysis yielded a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.707, indicating a strong positive relationship between organic positioning strategies and digital consumer behavior. These results underscore the practical value of implementing effective SEO strategies in enhancing consumer engagement and behavior in the digital space. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that well-executed organic positioning strategies can significantly improve digital consumer behavior, offering valuable insights for real estate companies seeking to optimize their digital marketing efforts. This highlights the importance of incorporating targeted SEO techniques to strengthen brand presence and drive consumer engagement in an increasingly competitive market.
Evaluation of the Generation of Acid Contaminants in Small-Scale Ozonators
Authors: F. Baldissera Roger , Annunziato Francielle , Canalli Vicente , J. R. Pires Marçal
Published: February 2025

The formation of undesirable nitrogenous contaminants has been reported in ozone
production by dielectric barrier discharge process using air as the feed gas. This study aims to
evaluate operational and environmental variables in the production of ozone and the formation
of nitrogenous contaminants while using small-scale ozonators. The highest production of
ozone occurred intermittently at higher flows, while relative humidity and increased temperature
decreased production. The presence of nitrite and nitrate ions and a decrease in pH were verified
in the aqueous phase, suggesting the formation of nitric acid and nitrous acid. In the intermittent
mode, there was a lower generation of total nitrogen and nitrite and a higher production of ozone.
Increasing the flow significantly decreases the formation of contaminants, and nitrite is not formed. Ambient air can be a more practical and lower-cost alternative for ozone production if the operating conditions are controlled.
Estimação e mapeamento do nível de potência recebida do sinal digital de TV na região urbana da cidade de Mossoró – RN utilizando métodos de interpolação espacial
Authors:   , Lima Karoline Rodrigues
Published: February 2025

O processo de transição do sinal analógico para digital do sistema de televisão aberta ainda
está em andamento no Brasil. O desligamento analógico, que iniciou em 2016 na cidade de
Rio Verde, no estado de Goiás (GO), tem prazo para finalizar em 31 de dezembro de 2023. A
cidade de Mossoró, no estado do Rio Grande do Norte (RN), teve o sinal analógico
completamente desligado com o fim da primeira etapa do processo de digitalização do sinal
de TV, em 9 de janeiro de 2019. Nesse sentido, o estudo da propagação do sinal digital é de
grande relevância para que os radiodifusores possam desenvolver e aperfeiçoar o serviço de
transmissão. Este trabalho tem o objetivo de analisar o nível de potência recebida do sinal
digital de uma estação de TV na região urbana da cidade de Mossoró – RN. A partir de uma
campanha de medição, dados reais da potência do sinal digital foram confrontados com o
limiar de recepção de – 77,40 dBm, estabelecido na norma ABNT NBR 15604:2020
(Televisão digital terrestre – Receptores). Em dois pontos foi constatado que a potência
recebida foi menor que o limiar, – 77,83 dBm e – 77,90 dBm. A maior atenuação nesses
locais pode estar relacionada à maior concentração de obstáculos e aglomerações. A fim de
identificar um modelo de propagação mais adequado para o ambiente estudado, os dados
coletados foram comparados com estimativas de potência recebida calculadas através de
diferentes modelos de propagação. A Recomendação ITU-R P. 1546-6 forneceu as
estimativas mais precisas com base nos menores valores de Mean Absolute Error – MAE =
6,02 e Root Mean Squared Error – RMSE = 7,90. Uma boa representação do nível de
potência recebida contribui para o mapeamento de maior e menor intensidade do sinal digital
na região. Para obter dados contínuos de potência sobre a área de interesse, foram utilizados
diferentes métodos de interpolação para gerar mapas de distribuição espacial do sinal digital
na região urbana de Mossoró. A implementação dos métodos de interpolação foi realizada no
software Surfer® (Golden Software, LLC), que fornece o relatório de validação cruzada com
os valores de Mean Error (ME) e RMSE associado a cada método. O menor valor de RMSE
(7,6083) indicou que o método Krigagem Ordinária com modelo de variograma exponencial
obteve as previsões mais precisas
Polymers in Cardiovascular Surgery
Authors: Gopinath Sithara
Published: February 2025

Polymers are very useful in developing cardiovascular surgery, with flexibility, biocompatibility, and possible adjustable mechanical strength. This chapter looks into different forms of polymers, such as natural and synthetic, used in cardiovascular devices, for instance, stents, heart valves, and vascular grafts. Some key advancements have been discussed in polymer synthesis, surface modifications for enhanced hemocompatibility, and their clinical performance. Areas of challenge include the degradation of polymers and future developments that involve biohybrid materials, smart polymers, and so on. The chapter includes discussions on regulatory and ethical considerations so that eventually, polymers shall play a central role in the future of cardiovascular interventions.
quality of reading and meaningful learning in basic general education students
Authors: Rivera-Mendoza Katiuska Josefina , Patiño-Briones Geomara Karinel , Mendoza-Zambrano Loida Maribel , Mendoza-Zambrano Fabio Alfredo , Candela-Muñoz Johanna Lisbeth
Published: February 2025

Teaching reading is one of the noblest activities that the teacher has developed, the same one that over the years has managed to awaken curiosity, but also a lack of interest, especially in school-children. The daily debate and the continuous search for answers to the questions raised by teachers in relation to how to improve and energize the teaching-learning process of reading has been shared by the author. The research is based on the investigation regarding the current situation related to the quality of reading and learning in students of Basic General Education, seeking evidence of the way in which teachers apply different strategies and methodologies to obtain learning. significant in the teaching of reading, information is collected that deals with the role that parents play in the educational process. In short, it gives an account of the state of the art related to the topic of the research. The investigative characteristics are quantitative and descriptive in nature, the quantitative methodology develops a set of techniques that are used to study the variables of interest of a certain population, its purpose is to plan various investigative activities that allow obtaining information.
Adaptation and psychometric properties of the Disgust Scale-Revised in a Peruvian sample
Authors: Silva-Alegria Mauricio Enrique
Published: February 2025

Objective: Adapt and validate the psychometric properties of the Disgust Scale-Revised in Peruvian Adults. Method: A non-probabilistic, snowball sample of 335 Peruvian adults was taken. For content validity, the clarity of the items was evaluated using Aiken's V. For internal structure validity, the fit indices of a series of CFAs were evaluated for the one, two, and three-factor models. For external validity, the DS-R constructs were correlated with the purity subconstruct of the Moral Foundations Questionnaire. For reliability, the ordinal alpha and the omega coefficient were used. Results: Acceptable fit indices were obtained for the two and three-factor models. Acceptable reliability indices for the core disgust and animal reminder scales were obtained. And small, significant positive correlations were obtained between the contamination and animal reminder factors with the purity scale of the MFQ. In conclusion, the DS-R is an instrument with acceptable psychometric properties for research contexts, although some adjustments could be made to increase the reliability of the contamination scale.
COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN URBAN AGRICULTURE (UA): DOES STAKEHOLDER COLLABORATION ENHANCE EMPOWERMENT?
Authors: Nazuri Nur Shuhamin , Rosnon Mohd Roslan , Ahmad Suhaimi Siti Shazwani , Mohd Salim Sara Shakilla
Published: February 2025

Urban agriculture (UA) is recognised as a solution to urban food insecurity and a driver of economic development. Success of UA initiatives largely depends on careful design, planning, and the active involvement of urban communities. Understanding the motivational values of UA for community participation is crucial for achieving UA’s broader social and economic goals. This study aims to investigate the values driving community participation in UA within the Klang Valley, Malaysia, and assess their contributions to social and economic empowerment. The study surveyed 180 participants involved in UA programmes using a multistage random sampling method. To examine the complex relationships among the variables affecting UA outcomes, Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was applied. A mediating effect analysis was also performed to identify indirect relationships, particularly the role of linking social capital between planning, implementation, and empowerment outcomes. In conclusion, the study highlights the crucial role of implementation and evaluation in urban agriculture (UA) programmes for social and economic empowerment. Evaluation processes revealed successes and potential drawbacks, emphasizing the need for improved methodologies. Linking social capital emerged as a key mediator that connects effective planning to empowerment outcomes, offering insights to enhance UA frameworks for sustainable and resilient communities.
INFLUENCE OF CENTRAL COURTYARD’S DAYLIGHTING ON VISUAL COMFORT AT TAMARIND SQUARE SELANGOR, MALAYSIA: A CASE STUDY
Authors: Khairuddin Nuur Liyana , Denan Zuraini
Published: February 2025

Current commercial buildings are designed in a compact and massive form leading to an unhealthy environment. Courtyard is an effective daylight passive design strategy implemented in a building that can contribute to a healthier environment. Moreover, courtyards can also act as a multi-functional space that can enhance social activities. These two potentials make courtyards relevant in solving the issues which arise in current commercial building’s design. However, Malaysia is a tropical country with bright sky condition. To make use of the potential of daylight in courtyards in a tropical climate, a design strategy is needed to adapt with the over exposure of sunlight. To study the influence of daylight in courtyards and the strategies needed to counter the issues of visual discomfort, Tamarind Square was chosen as a case study, as the building is considered as one of the best design practices in Malaysia, based on the recognitions given by the Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM) and other notable bodies. Daylight design strategies are examined to verify whether courtyards in Tamarind Square do meet the criteria for good visual comfort. Visual comfort is analysed based on visual comfort parameters that include: available amount of light, light uniformity, shading strategy, risk of glare, choice of material, access to view, and colours. There were three courtyards involved in this study: the North Court, the Centre Court and the South Court. Each of these courtyards has its own strategies in adapting to tropical climate and providing good visual comfort, while at the same time meeting its purpose as part of the commercial space in Tamarind Square.
THE SOCIO-TECHNICAL SYSTEM FRAMEWORK FOR MAINTAINING THE SMART HERITAGE OF CHENGDU’S HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL VILLAGES
Authors: Feng Luo , Isa Mohd Ismail , Roosli Ruhizal
Published: February 2025

As the development of smart cities continues to advance, Smart Heritage has become an essential component of cultural preservation and inheritance. The cultural Heritage of Chengdu's historical and cultural villages possess significant cultural and social value and currently faces complex challenges in terms of conservation. Based on the actual situation of Chengdu's historical and cultural villages, employs qualitative research methodology, including semi-structured interviews with experts, to construct a socio-technical system framework supporting the implementation of smart Heritage in Chengdu's historical and cultural villages, aiming at effective management and conservation of Smart Heritage. The study first identifies the expertise areas and the number of experts involved. It is divided into three main parts: the socio-technical system's social, technological, and environmental dimensions. Based on the findings of this study, it is evident that the Smart Heritage of Chengdu's historical and cultural villages require interdisciplinary cooperation and coordination across various sectors. Additionally, there is a need for continually updated and improved technological support systems to adapt to changes in the era and demands. This framework is believed to provide valuable references and guidance for managing and conserving Smart Heritage in Chengdu's historical and cultural villages.
RETROFITTING GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE IN KUALA LUMPUR: A DOCUMENT ANALYSIS OF POLICY GAPS AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE
Authors: Nizarudin Norhanis Diyana , Zakariya Khalilah
Published: February 2025

Urban green spaces play a critical role in enhancing environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and the well-being of urban populations. However, the fragmentation of green spaces in Kuala Lumpur presents significant challenges to sustainable urban planning and climate adaptation efforts. This study examines the policy gaps that hinder the effective integration of green infrastructure into Kuala Lumpur’s urban planning framework. A qualitative document analysis is conducted to assess national policies, planning guidelines, and international best practices related to green infrastructure and climate resilience. The findings reveal that while Malaysia’s policies accentuate the provision of green spaces, they lack comprehensive enforcement mechanisms, leading to inconsistencies in green infrastructure implementation. Key challenges include policy fragmentation, decentralised governance, inadequate financial incentives, and the absence of explicit regulatory frameworks supporting green infrastructure retrofitting. By analysing international models, such as the United Kingdom’s Green Infrastructure Standards and Singapore’s Green Plan 2030, this study identifies policy strategies that could enhance Malaysia’s urban resilience. The study concludes that a systematic retrofitting framework is required to address the existing policy gaps and ensure the strategic integration of green infrastructure into urban development. It recommends adopting international best practices, strengthening regulatory enforcement, and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration to enhance climate adaptation and ecological connectivity. These measures are essential for improving urban sustainability and mitigating the adverse effects of rapid urbanisation and climate change in Kuala Lumpur.
Preferred Uses of Generative AI Chatbots in Mental Health Care: Exploring Practitioners’ Perspectives (Preprint)
Authors: Goldie Jessie-Marie Dorothy , Dennis Simon , Hipgrave Lyndsey , Coleman Amanda
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND

Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) chatbots have the potential to improve mental health care for practitioners and clients. Evidence demonstrates that AI chatbots can assist with tasks such as documentation, research, counselling, and therapeutic exercises. However, research examining practitioners’ perspectives is limited.

OBJECTIVE

Drawing on qualitative and quantitative data, this mixed-methods study investigates: (1) practitioners’ perspectives on different uses of Generative AI chatbots; (2) their likelihood of recommending chatbots to clients; and (3) whether recommendation likelihood increases after viewing a demonstration.

METHODS

Participants were 23 mental health practitioners (17 female, 6 male; M age = 39.39, SD = 16.20). In forty-five-minute interviews, participants selected their three most helpful uses of chatbots from 11 options and rated their likelihood of recommending chatbots to clients on a Likert-scale before and after a 11-minute chatbot demonstration.

RESULTS

Binomial tests found that Generating Case Notes was selected at greater-than-chance levels (p = .001), while Support with Session Planning (p = .863) and Identifying and Suggesting Literature (p = .096) were not. Although 55% (n = 12) were likely to recommend chatbots to clients, a binomial test found no significant difference from the 50% threshold (p = .738). A paired samples t-test found that recommendation likelihood increased significantly (p = .002) from pre-demonstration to post-demonstration.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest practitioners favour administrative uses of Generative AI and are more likely to recommend chatbots to clients after exposure. This study highlights the need for practitioner education and guidelines to support safe and effective AI integration in mental health care.
Problems of the state of the oral cavity and anesthetic care in users of various forms of cocaine (scientific and literary review)
Authors: Kravets O.V. , Yekhalov V.V. , Sedinkin V.A. , Romanyuta I.A.
Published: February 2025

The prevalence of cocaine among the narcotic substances used by the population of Europe and America is second only to cannabinoids. Cocaine and crack use can cause various types of damage to the oral cavity, ranging from bad breath (halitosis) and gingivitis to cancer. These lesions are due to the anesthetic, vasoconstrictor, local prothrombotic properties of cocaine and its components in combination with cytotoxic effects and tissue damage associated with the method of use. Dentists quite often and treat cocaine users unknowingly, and they should be aware of the significant risks of possible problems and complications and be prepared to deal with them. Consuming this narcotic immediately before or after tooth extraction can cause excessive bleeding. Active cocaine users had significantly more complications related to anesthesia. Anesthesiologists should know the specifics of managing such patients, regardless of whether they are acutely intoxicated or suffering from the effects of chronic drug use. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, class I antiarrhythmic drugs, and methadone in combination with cocaine lead to arrhythmias. The prescription of β-blockers should be avoided. The use of atropine and adrenaline can cause dangerous tachycardia in cocaine addicts. With general anesthesia during intubation, uncontrolled hypertension, arrhythmia and myocardial infarction, difficulty in mask ventilation and tracheal intubation due to inflammation, mucosal edema, defects of the palate, nasal membrane, pulmonary hypertension, which can complicate oxygenation or ventilation, may occur. Sympathomimetics are contraindicated if cocaine has been used within the last 24 hours. This must be explained to the patient (who must ensure that the drug was not used during this period), if local anesthesia with vasoconstrictors is indicated to reduce periodontal bleeding, since the use of a local anesthetic alone may not provide the necessary duration of anesthesia or the degree of hemostasis. Planned intervention using general anesthesia is possible at least 48 hours after the last use of cocaine (with certain risks), and optimally — after a week.
High Burden of Carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) Colonization in Neonates in A Tertiary Care Hospital in India
Authors: Mishra Kajal , Saini Manu , Pragya Pragya , Sharma Swati , Rakshit Pue , Banerjee Tuhina , Kumar Ashok
Published: February 2025

Neonatal sepsis due to carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is a global cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in East and Southeast Asia. Among different sources of CRKP implicated in sepsis, neonatal skin and gut colonization are important reservoirs. Despite being endemic for CRKP infections, there is an extreme paucity of data on CRKP colonization in neonates. Therefore, this prospective cohort study was performed to detect the frequency of gut colonization with CRKP in the neonates following admission in the neonatal unit of a tertiary care hospital in India. The study was conducted in the 14 bedded neonatal unit and infection control section. Surface swabs from skin and rectal swabs were cultured for bacterial identification from every neonate at admission and at 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h. Isolates were genotypically tested for phylogeny groups, screened for carbapenem resistance by imipenem E-test and typed by Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus (ERIC) PCR. Data for the CRKP colonized and non-colonized neonates were statistically analyzed. A total of 30 neonates and 180 swabs were studied. Gram-positive cocci in skin, whereas for rectal colonization, K. pneumoniae (genotype K. pneumoniae subsp. pneumoniae) was the commonest. The frequency of CRKP colonization was 33%, with 20% colonization pressure at admission. All the CRKP had blaNDM gene. On ERIC-PCR, multiple clones were seen. The study highlighted the high burden of blaNDM carrying CRKP colonization in neonates at admission, thus emphasizing the urgent need for the implementation of stringent infection control policies to prevent nosocomial transmission of these colonizers.
Tax Avoidance And Green Accounting In Increasing Firm Value And CSR Practices In Indonesia
Authors: Hamdani Hamdani , Sunaryo Dede , Galuh Febrianto Hendra , Indah Fitriana Amalia , Dehavilan Sandrina , Eky Pambudi Januar
Published: February 2025

Purpose: This study examines the effect of tax avoidance and green accounting on firm value with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as a moderation variable.Methodology/approach: This research is included in quantitative research. This study covers the population of 83 energy companies on IDX. This sampling technique uses purposive sampling in 50 company financial statement data samples. Data analysis was done using panel data analysis, and the MRA test was performed using Eviews 12.Findings: The study results show that tax avoidance does not affect firm value. However, green accounting does affect firm value. It is also observed that corporate social responsibility does not moderate the relationship between tax avoidance and firm value, as well as the relationship between green accounting and firm value. It can be inferred that Tax Avoidance does not impact a firm's value. Green Accounting hurts the value of the company. CSR cannot moderate the relationship between variables related to Tax Avoidance and the value of a firm. However, CSR can influence the link between Green Accounting factors and Firm value. Practical implications: The results of this research are expected to help investors in making decisions and for theories, it is hoped that this research can develop theories about the value of companies.Originality/value: This research will complement existing research and what distinguishes it from other research is the CSR variate which is the moderation variable, where there are still few who include these variables.
Development of a Tool to Measure VDT Syndrome Prevention Behavior in Office Workers
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Jung Young Mi , Jang Keong sook
Published: February 2025

Objectives The purpose of this study was to develop a tool to measure VDT (Visual Display Terminal) syndrome prevention behaviors for office workers, and to verify the scale's validity and reliability.
Methods The subjects were 399 office workers. Data were analyzed using item analysis, exploratory and con firmatory factor analysis, criterion-related validity, and internal consistency.
Results The final scale consisted of 15 items and three factors (physical self-care, stress management, and work environment management), which explained 61.4% of the variance. Confirmatory factor analysis indicated that the theoretical model consisting of 15 items satisfied all goodness-of-fit indices. Criterion-related validity was demonstrated by the VDT syndrome scale (r=-0.46, p<.001). The Cronbach’s alpha for the total scale was .91, with subscale values ranging from .88 to .76, and the test-retest reliability was .91, with subscale values ranging from .73 to .86.
Conclusions This tool can be used to measure the preventive behaviors for VDT syndrome among office workers.
Analysis of Media Article related to College Students’ Careers before and during COVID-19 through Text Mining and Topic Modeling
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Kim Mikyoung , Park Suhong , Bae Yuna
Published: February 2025

Objectives The purpose of this study is to identify changes in social perception of ‘college student career’ before and during COVID-19 in order to identify various considerations related to college student career path and provide basic data for effective college student career support.
Methods For this purpose, the period before and during COVID-19 are divided into the pre-COVID-19 period (January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2019) and the COVID-19 period (January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2021), and 76 and 81 media articles were selected using BIGKinds, a news big data site, respectively. The articles were ana lyzed using Textom, and text mining and topic modeling were used for the analysis.
Results As a result, it was confirmed that while offline-centered career concerns were centered before COVID-19, the transition to online-centered career activities during COVID-19 was confirmed. In addition, due to COVID-19, college students have experienced direct and indirect changes such as reduction in career-related regional scope, restrictions on career preparation activities, changes in career direction, and psychological difficulties. Meanwhile, as a result of the topic modeling analysis related to college students' career before and during COVID-19, 5 and 3 topics were derived, respectively.
Conclusions Through the analysis of media articles, it was found that the meaning of career was recognized as the meaning of ‘job’ before COVID-19. As all matters related to the existing college student career have been transformed into a different form due to COVID-19, we expected to be able to find effective ways to support col lege students’ career.
The Mediating effect of Grit on the relationship between Positive Psychological Capital and Career Self-Regulation among the freshmen without a declared major at university
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Kim Haesook , Kwoon Junghyeon
Published: February 2025

Objectives This study aims to examine how grit affects the relationship between positive psychological capital and career self-regulation among university freshmen who enter without a declared major.
Methods To achieve this, the researchers collected 83 university freshmen data entering without a declared major at G University. The data were analyzed using statistical methods including t-tests, analysis of variance, Pearson correlation analysis, and hierarchical regression analysis. To test the significance of the indirect effects through grit as a mediator, bootstrapping was performed.
Results Significant positive correlations were found among positive psychological capital, grit, and career self-regulation in the freshmen entering without a declared major. Additionally, grit was found to partially mediate the relationship between positive psychological capital and career self-regulation.
Conclusions This study is significant in that it identifies the relationships among variables affecting career ex ploration and setting for university students entering without a declared major. Based on the findings, recom mendations for career development programs and interventions are provided.