Aspects Of Behavior Research Articles

Noninvasive brain–computer interfaces for children with neurodevelopmental disorders: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder

Background:Brain–computer interface (BCI)-mediated neurofeedback training (BCI-NFT) has emerged as a highly promising treatment in the field of neurorehabilitation. Many previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of BCI techniques in clinical rehabilitation, but children are largely neglected in BCI research. Purpose:This systematic review aimed to synthesize existing studies from technical and clinical application perspectives to identify the current state of research on noninvasive brain–computer interface (NBCI) technology in children with two major neurodevelopmental disorders, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Methods:Five relevant electronic databases were searched (PubMed, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, Embase, and the Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature). The publication dates ranged from the inception of each database to June 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the use of NBCI technology in children with ASD or ADHD were included. Manual searches of the clinical trial registry platforms and the reference lists of reviews related to the study topic were also conducted. Two independent reviewers performed the literature screening, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment. Results:A total of 24 RCTs involving 1998 children with ASD or ADHD were included in this systematic review. With respect to input brain signals, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) (4.2%), electroencephalography (EEG) combined with fMRI (4.2%), and EEG combined with galvanic skin response (GSR) sensors (4.2%) were utilized in one study each. Seven studies employed EEG combined with electrooculogram (EOG) (29.1%), and the remaining fourteen studies used EEG alone (58.3%). Compared with those of the controls, significant improvements in both behavioral aspects and brain activity in patients were observed in eleven studies (45.8%). NBCI technology has a positive effect on both the behavioral and brain activity levels of children with ASD or ADHD, while it still faces challenges in the paediatric population, particularly in terms of signal processing and the unique cognitive and physiological developmental stages of children, which may complicate the application of these technologies in this population. Conclusion:It demonstrated that there has a high potential for NBCI application in the field of neurodevelopmental disorders. Future research should focus on developing advanced machine learning algorithms to improve neural signal decoding capabilities and on creating child-appropriate application paradigms to explore the long-term efficacy of these algorithms.

The 9th Victor de Mello lecture: reflections and speculations

The paper reviews the published literature on some aspects of fabric and particle behaviour in cohesionless soils. It uses insights from Discrete Element Modelling and Microcomputed Tomography to speculate on reasons for the difference in behaviour observed between moist tamped and sedimented sands at the same global void ratio and stress state. It is suggested that inhomogeneities in the form of macrovoids in moist tamped samples trigger localisation, collapse and the development of a local scale chain reaction. It questions whether a similar sequence applies at the field scale and whether expansive partial drainage influences the rate of propagation of the chain reaction. The paper offers reasons why the use of critical state based on moist tamped samples to assess the stability of tailings, may not be the best approach, and suggests that identifying instability lines for sedimented samples at appropriate void ratios and principal stress directions, may be preferable. Critical state reflects behaviour at large strains where initial and evolving inhomogeneities affect identification of relevant void ratios; instability lines reflect behaviour at small strains where inhomogeneities probably initiate collapse. The paper emphasises the importance of spatial variations in local void ratios in loose material, the importance of anisotropy of collapse potential and of load-controlled rather that strain-controlled shearing.

Adoption challenges of environmental monitoring practices: case study of temperature data loggers in selected Australian vegetable supply chains

Temperature monitoring across cold chain practices is an integral component of fresh produce supply chains. Numerous temperature data loggers (TDLs) are available to reduce the significant amount of food loss and waste (FLW) (equivalent to around 50%) in vegetable supply chains; however, its widespread adoption remains a challenge for the actors along the chain. This study seeks to understand the adoption of TDLs within selected Australian vegetable supply chains to address the challenge of FLW. Three representative cases of vegetable supply chains were purposively selected, including growers, packers, transporters, distribution centres along with technology providers, and industry experts. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed utilising thematic analysis. The findings indicate that members of vegetable supply chains recognise temperature management as one of the key factors for preserving quality and extending shelf life of their produce; however, they are not proactively seeking to utilise TDLs in their supply chain operations. Resistance to adoption of TDLs is deeply rooted in product-based challenges such as cost and compatibility, and process-based challenges including information sharing and product mixing. Additionally, presence of an individual’s undesirable behavioural aspects such as status-quo bias and responsibility shirking as well as prevailing social norms within the industry influence the adoption of TDLs.

Caregivers' physiological responses during toddler vaccinations: associations with psychological and behavioral responses.

This study investigated biological, psychological, and behavioral aspects of caregivers' responses to toddlers' pain-related distress by measuring caregivers' high-frequency heart rate variability (HRV) responses during toddler vaccination pain and examining associations with caregivers' behavioral responses and psychological stress. Participants included caregiver-toddler dyads (N = 194) from a longitudinal cohort-sequential study who were observed during toddlers' 12-, 18-, or 24-month routine vaccinations. Changes in caregiver HRV were analyzed using growth curve modeling. Conditional growth curve models examined associations between caregiver HRV and caregivers' concurrent behavior and psychological stress. The unconditional growth curve model indicated a slight linear decrease in caregiver HRV (i.e., vagal withdrawal) across the 3 min post-needle (unstandardized B = -0.06, p = .049). In conditional growth curve models, higher levels of parenting stress were associated with less vagal withdrawal during the post-needle period (standardized B = 0.47, unstandardized B = 0.02, p = .003). Caregivers' behavioral responses (i.e., use of soothing and distress-promoting behaviors), state anxiety, and general anxiety symptomology were not significantly associated with HRV responses. Caregiver parasympathetic nervous system activity levels changed minimally from baseline to post-needle and decreased slightly across the post-needle period. Caregivers' self-reported parenting stress was associated with their parasympathetic responses to the procedure. Findings support an improved understanding of the mechanisms underlying caregivers' responses to children's pain-related distress in a naturalistic setting.

The Power of Words: How Does Leader’s Motivating Language Affect Employees’ Organizational Commitment

The influence of leadership on organizational outcomes has long been a subject of extensive research. Our study departs from the traditional examination of broader behavioral aspects. It focuses on a specific and nuanced element within leadership styles and approaches—motivating language. Drawing on insights from the social cognitive and motivating language literature, this study provides a more nuanced understanding of how leaders can influence organizational commitment through their language choices. We conducted an online survey of 413 full-time employees across various sectors in China. The findings indicate that leaders’ motivational communication, which includes direction-giving, empathetic, and meaning-making language, positively correlates with organizational commitment. Moreover, psychological empowerment serves as a mediator in the relationship between each type of motivating language and organizational commitment. Despite the positive link between psychological empowerment and organizational commitment, relationship conflict weakens this association.

Metaverse-supply chain and halal behavior: bibliometric analysis, framework and implications

Purpose This paper aims to review how the metaverse influences and contributes to the halal industry, particularly focusing on halal logistics (HL), halal supply chain management (HSCM) and consumer behavior. Design/methodology/approach This paper analyzed scholarly studies to investigate existing literature and current as well as future trends in the adoption of the metaverse in HL, supply chains and consumer behavior. The study explores the thematic structure of the current knowledge landscape, identifies research gaps and highlights potential directions for future research at the intersection of the metaverse, supply chain and halal behavior. The authors identified 286 papers that examined the integration of the metaverse with HL practices, supply chain management strategies and consumer behavior in alignment with Islamic principles and standards. Findings The results indicate a limited number of studies on the successful adoption of the metaverse in HL, HSCM and behavioral research. This paper has proposed a framework for the metaverse-supply chain and halal behavior. The framework can serve as a reference for scholars and practitioners on how to incorporate advanced technology to engage with and predict market demand. Additionally, the metaverse-supply chain framework can be used to align with halal supply chain practices based on customer needs and preferences. The metaverse integrates the virtual world, enabling halal supply chain networks to enhance virtual reality, digital experiences and business performance. Practical implications The halal industry can showcase products and services through virtual scenarios, avatars and shops. By developing a halal-compliant metaverse, the halal industry can facilitate activities such as online sales, online payments and virtual marketing, thereby enabling a digital business transformation. Embracing the metaverse can improve business efficiency and influence consumer behavior, decisions and compliance with Shariah principles. Originality/value The authors argue that this paper is at the forefront and will serve as a reference for future research. This paper is distinct from existing literature, as it focuses on metaverse adoption and its correlation with a Shariah compliance framework in logistics, supply chain and behavioral aspects. Through its findings, this framework aims to inspire further empirical research and provide guidance and solutions to foster sustainable development in the halal industry.

Could probiotics be used as a novel therapeutic approach to alleviate the reproductive and neurobehavioral side effects of sertraline? A study in male mice

There are still few studies that have investigated the impact of sertraline (SE) on fertility, as well as adjuvant treatments that alleviate its side effects. Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the impact of SE on reproductive and neurobehavior parameters and verify whether the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus alleviates the side effects of SE. After carrying out a dose-response study with SE, experiment II was conducted. Thus, male mice were distributed into four experimental groups (n=8–9/group): control (CO)-received filtered water (vehicle); sertraline group (S)–received 20 mg/kg of SE, diluted in the vehicle; probiotic (P)-received the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus (1×109 CFU) diluted in the vehicle; and SP group that received both probiotic and SE. The treatment occurred/lasted for 30 days. At the end of treatment, behavioral aspects were analyzed. After euthanasia, the organs were weighed, the histology of the testis and epididymis were analyzed, and the sperm quality and also natural fertility were verified. Complementarily, in vitro assays were carried out to verify whether sertraline could affect sperm capacitation and embryonic development. The results showed that the SP group, compared to S, did not reduce body weight and seminal gland weight and presented a lower number of resorptions. Notably, the rate of resorption in both the SP and S groups was similar to that of the control group. It was also observed that the S group was less exploratory and more anxious than the SP group. Thus, the present study demonstrated that SE has an impact on the reproductive system and neurobehavior. Therefore, for the first time, we demonstrate that the probiotic can alleviate the side effects of SE.

Effect of a patient health engagement (PHE) model on rehabilitation participation in patients with acute myocardial infarction after PCI: a study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundParticipation in cardiac rehabilitation is low in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Although existing rehabilitation methods have achieved certain results, patient participation in exercise rehabilitation is not ideal. The Patient Health Engagement (PHE) model is designed to ensure that patients improve their participation in cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and other aspects in all phases of exercise rehabilitation. The purpose of this study is to confirm whether the rehabilitation method based on the PHE model improves the rate of patient participation and enhances the rehabilitation effect during cardiac rehabilitation in patients with acute myocardial infarction compared with the traditional rehabilitation model.Methods/designThis is a single-center, double-blind, randomized, controlled trial that will enroll 128 patients. Patients with stable acute myocardial infarction after undergoing PCI who received cardiac rehabilitation and postoperative LVEF ≥ 40%, categorized into Killip class I ~ II and with age ≥ 18 years, will be included in the study. Exclusion criteria are mainly malignant arrhythmias, acute heart failure, congestive heart failure, and patients requiring intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation. Patients will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to the intervention (1) and control (2) groups. Physicians, rehabilitation specialists, patients, and data collectors will be blinded during the study. A rehabilitator and a specialist nurse will conduct the cardiac rehabilitation. The specialist nurse will hand over the sealed bag containing patient information (group 1 or 2) to the physician. Group 1 will undergo cardiac rehabilitation through the PHE model, three times a week for 3 months. The rehabilitation program will be evaluated and adjusted in time from each period of the rehabilitation. Group 2 will be treated with routine cardiac rehabilitation. The rehabilitation participation rate of the two groups will be evaluated before and after 3 months of intervention. The primary outcome will be the level of patient participation in rehabilitation, and the secondary outcome will include general data of patients, postoperative rehabilitation indicators, cardiac rehabilitation knowledge–attitude–practice questionnaire, cardiovascular adverse events, and a brief mood scale.Expected outcomesWe expect improved cardiac rehabilitation participation rates and rehabilitation outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction after undergoing PCI using the PHE model.DiscussionThis approach may increase patient participation in rehabilitation, improve rehabilitation outcomes, and be widely implemented in hospitals and rehabilitation centers.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov identifier, ChiCTR2400085276 (Version 2.0 June 04, 2024), https://www.chictr.org.cn.Trial sponsorShandong Second Medical university, Weifang, Shandong. Contact name: Dechun Qin, Address: Shandong Second Medical university, Weifang Shandong. Email: 13562666589@163.com.

Therapeutic Community Treatment Modality Program Implemented in Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges: A Mechanism for Social Re-Integration

The study evaluated the effectiveness of the implementation of the Therapeutic Community Treatment Modality Program (TCTMP) in Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges (CSPC) as one of the community-based treatment extension services of the college in partnership with the Probation and Parole Office Administration (PPOA), Iriga City. The 28 Twenty-eight parolee respondents voluntarily answered unstructured questionnaire, on-on-one interviews, document analysis, and focus group discussions. Results revealed the28 participants are the primary subjects involved in the crime, with a probation period ranging from 3 to 4 years. The study found that CSPC provided various activities for participants' social reintegration, affecting their behavioral, emotional, intellectual, and survival aspects. Participants agreed that TCTMP significantly improved their lives, with pre-contemplation and contemplation being the only constraints. Value formation and skills training were deemed potent tools for social reintegration.

Mechanisms of Control and Media Protagonism in Management

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the mechanisms of control and media protagonism in the management of epidemics in order to demonstrate the influence that the media in association with the State and large private corporations exert on human behavior. Theoretical Framework: In this topic, the main concepts and theories that underlie the research are presented. The issue of fear arising from contagion in a scenario of disease outbreaks, aspects of collective behavior and the use of institutional and media control methods are highlighted, providing a solid basis for understanding the context of the investigation. Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises the survey and selection of journalistic texts containing national and international coverage of outbreaks of contagious diseases to organize the corpus of comparative analysis of the influence on the process of legitimization of prophylaxis, surveillance and control measures. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed that the media is established with other possibilities besides surveillance, in which control is something even more present, and its role will be that of control through discourse. In the discussion section, these results are contextualized in the light of the theoretical framework, highlighting the implications and relationships identified. Possible discrepancies and limitations of the study are also considered in this section. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how the results can be applied or influence practices in the fields of communication and health, in relation to the construction of the media narrative about public health with possible developments in relation to the vaccination campaigns that followed the epidemic and the pandemic that are the objects of this study. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating, in different scenarios separated from each other by a decade, but characterized by the worldwide dissemination of contagious diseases, the performance of the same logic of control and media protagonism. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by the demonstration of the need for the journalist to perceive in his professional practice the asphyxiating implications arising from the control by the discourse imposed by the media on society.

Pedestrian crossing behavior in social groups: Exploring cultural contexts through a comparative study

Walking is a common mode of transportation that offers numerous benefits. However, pedestrians are vulnerable road users and account for a significant number of traffic accidents worldwide. Characterizing pedestrian behavior is crucial for enhancing safety and comfort. Several factors influence pedestrian behavior, including personal, situational, social, and cultural aspects. It is essential to consider these factors collectively for accurate predictions. Previous studies have highlighted the importance of cultural and location-specific influences on pedestrian behavior, yet many have focused primarily on risk perception, often neglecting the role of social interactions during street crossings. This study analyzes pedestrian behavior at a crossing in two culturally diverse cities: Bucaramanga in Colombia and Guimarães in Portugal. The research emphasizes the social and operational factors that affect how pedestrians cross streets. Specifically, it explores how cultural and social differences in each city influence group walking speed and mobility. The study examines several factors, including walking speed, the distance between pedestrians (whether in groups or alone), and the impact of group size and gender composition. The results demonstrate that informal rules and cultural context significantly impact pedestrian behavior during various crossing phases. Notable variations were observed in pedestrian speed before crossing and the spatial organization of groups during the crossing. To enhance road safety, interventions should consider these cultural factors and include educational programs that promote safe practices. This study contributes to a better understanding of how social factors influence pedestrian behavior and provides valuable insights for modeling pedestrian behavior, optimizing pedestrian facilities, and developing effective strategies for improving road user safety.

A Scoping Review of Episodes of Lucidity in People Living With Dementia Near the End of Life: The Potential Role of Speech-Language Pathology in Research and Practice

Purpose: Emerging evidence suggests that people with dementia may experience episodes of lucidity (ELs) near the end of life, characterized by a temporary recovery of function, communication abilities, and/or awareness of surroundings. This scoping review aims to identify the available evidence on EL, clarify its key concepts and characteristics, identify knowledge gaps, describe the disciplines involved in EL research, and provide recommendations for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) working with people with dementia at the end of life. The ultimate goal is to guide future research and develop clinical strategies for SLPs involved in end-of-life care for this population. Method: A scoping review was conducted with a systematic literature search across five major databases using relevant terms such as “dementia,” “end-of-life,” and “lucidity,” covering all records up to May 2023. The review included quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods studies focused on lucid episodes at the end of life. Results: Of 5,780 articles screened by two independent reviewers, 10 met the criteria and were synthesized using narrative methods. Data extraction and quality assessment were independently performed by these reviewers. Among the selected studies, three were case reports, while the remaining seven employed qualitative assessments based on caregiver or informant reports. Most studies involved disciplines such as nursing, medicine, and psychology. All definitions and reports of lucidity involved aspects of verbal and nonverbal communication by individuals living with dementia. Conclusions: The scoping review provides a valuable synthesis of evidence on lucid episodes in people with severe dementia near the end of life, highlighting an area of growing research interest. Exploring the neurobiological and behavioral aspects of lucidity in dementia can lead to enhanced care for older adults. Given the fundamental role of communication in defining lucidity, SLPs are well positioned to contribute to this research and care continuum.

Abstract B027: ISG15 modulate cancer cell mechanics and metastasis in breast cancer

Abstract Metastasis in breast cancer is a major challenge for prognosis and effective treatment, primarily because cancer cells can create an immune-suppressive microenvironment that supports their progression and spread. The physical properties of cancer cells significantly influence their metastatic potential and their interaction with the environment. Identifying targets that impact both the physical characteristics of cancer cells, and their microenvironment is crucial for tackling metastatic disease. Interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), a ubiquitin-like protein, is often overexpressed in breast cancer tissues and is associated with poor prognosis, higher tumor grade, and increased invasiveness. Despite these associations, the precise role of ISG15 and its post-translational modification, ISGylation, in cancer cell behavior and interactions with their microenvironment remains unclear. To explore this, we interrogated the biophysical role of ISG15 by using mouse modeling and in vitro loss of function approaches. We utilized whole- body ISG15-deficient mice and conducted a series of experiments to assess the impact of ISG15 on cancer cell properties and their surrounding environment. Our preliminary results indicate that cells lacking ISG15 exhibit altered physical traits, such as increased stiffness and size, which may influence their metastatic behavior. Additionally, targeting ISG15 or disrupting ISGylation enhances the susceptibility of cancer cells to immune cell-mediated destruction. In ISG15- deficient mice, we observed significantly reduced tumor growth and metastasis compared to wild-type controls. These findings suggest that ISG15 modulates critical aspects of cancer cell behavior and their interactions with the microenvironment, contributing to immune evasion and metastatic spread. Our research highlights ISG15 as a promising therapeutic target and provides a foundation for developing new strategies to prevent and treat metastatic cancer Citation Format: Mohamed Haloul, Priya Shah, Vinay Pai, Faruk Hossen, James James Lee, Ekrem Emrah Er. ISG15 modulate cancer cell mechanics and metastasis in breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference in Cancer Research: Tumor-body Interactions: The Roles of Micro- and Macroenvironment in Cancer; 2024 Nov 17-20; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(22_Suppl):Abstract nr B027.

Pandemic-Era Trends in US Automatic Payment Adoption: A 2022 Behavioral Analysis

Introduction: This study analyses the adoption trends of automated payment methods among different racial groups in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2022. It investigates the correlations among financial literacy, risk attitudes, customer sentiment, and the adoption of automated payment mechanisms for bill settlements. Method: An analysis of responses from a diverse demographic is conducted using logistic regression on data from the 2022 Survey of Consumer Finance. This analysis investigates the trends associated with subjective and objective financial literacy, consumer sentiment as evaluated by economic perceptions, and risk attitudes among several generations, taking into account race as well. Results: Initial results suggest disparities in the degrees to which financial literacy, risk attitudes, and consumer sentiment are connected with adoption rates among various racial groups. The statistical analysis highlights disparities in the adoption of automated payments among different racial and ethnic groups. Discussion: The findings underscore the complex interplay among socio-economic status, behavioral variables, and technology adoption in the period after the pandemic. This methodology aligns with current scholarly works on behavioral finance, which emphasize the need to consider both individual psychological aspects and wider social impacts in the process of making financial decisions. By incorporating racial diversity into the research, the study provides a valuable understanding of how cultural and demographic factors interact with behavioral aspects in the particular setting of financial technology adoption during a time of substantial economic transformation.

대학생의 학습역량과 진로준비행동 간의 관계에서 대학생활적응과 진로탐색행동의 순차적 매개효과

Objectives Career development and career preparation during university are major concerns and essential processes for undergraduate students. Therefore, this study aims to explore the relationship between university students' career preparation behavior and factors such as cognition, environment, and behavior. With this study, the author proposes educational support from universities and effective educational strategies to enhance career preparation behavior. The study analyzes the sequential mediating effects of adjustment to college and career exploration behavior in the relationship between learning competence and career preparation behavior among university students. Methods A survey was conducted with 281 university students in Busan, using scales measuring learning competence, adjustment to college, career exploration behavior, and career preparation behavior. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS and Macro PROCESS for reliability testing, correlation analysis, multiple regression analysis, and bootstrapping to verify the mediating effects. Results First, significant correlations were found among learning competence, adjustment to college, career exploration behavior, and career preparation behavior. Second, the sequential mediating effects of adjustment to college and career exploration behavior were significant in the relationship between learning competence and career preparation behavior. Conclusions The findings of this study suggest that to enhance university students' career preparation behavior, it is important to develop and accumulate learning competence during the college years, which fosters better adjustment to college and promotes career exploration behavior. Step-by-step and integrated support in learning competence, environmental, and behavioral aspects is necessary to implement students' career preparation behavior effectively.

Agenda for psychological and behavioural science of transformative behavioural change

Abstract Since the emergence of psychological and behavioural science, one of its foundational goals has been to explain human behaviour. Although the discipline has been highly successful in this endeavour, there is an elephant in the room. Psychological and behavioural science has neglected studying the most challenging aspect of human behaviour−transformative behavioural change. This change can be described as a fundamental and difficult-to-achieve shift in someone’s actions that involves a transformation of one’s way of living. Understanding transformative behavioural change is essential not only for psychological and behavioural science to accomplish its foundational goal but also to maintain its contemporary relevance. Indeed, it is imminent that both solving the world’s biggest issues (e.g., climate change) and living through major disruptions (e.g., technological revolution) will require people to transform their behaviour. In this perspective, I first review and discuss previous relevant research, and then propose a seven-step agenda for how psychological and behavioural science can become the science of transformative behavioural change.

Behavioral strategies for reducing corruption: from regulation to choice architecture

Abstract Traditionally, corruption is seen as a rational pursuit of profit, focusing on personal gain. However, this view overlooks other influences. This paper focuses on the behavioral aspects of corruption, providing a deeper understanding of its complexities, and addressing the factors overlooked by conventional approaches. Reviewing some of the literature, we highlight how researchers have approached corruption from the perspective of behavioral sciences. Additionally, we examine how the emerging discipline of Behavioral Public Policy (BPP) employs innovative methods to reduce corrupt practices, offering new strategies that transcend traditional perspectives. Our paper innovates by demonstrating how corruption can be reduced by substituting traditional regulations with nonregulatory tools like nudges and sludge audits, or by leveraging digital choice architectures to minimize human-to-human interactions, known corruption enablers. By reducing regulations and administrative red tape, and introducing digital frameworks, these tools simplify processes minimizing opportunities for corrupt behavior. In this paper, we aim to infuse corruption research with a behavioral twist, a digital approach, and a deregulatory perspective, offering policymakers an alternative path to foster transparency, accountability and ethical governance. While this approach will not completely eradicate corruption, it strives to show how BPP can reduce its occurrences.

Designing a Human Resource Management System for Performance Assessment using Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scales (BARS) for Operators at PT. Polyland Indoteknik Bandung

Employee performance appraisal is a crucial aspect of enhancing organizational productivity and effectiveness. This research aims to develop a more robust performance appraisal system for factory operators at PT. Polyland Indoteknik Bandung employs the Behaviorally Anchored Rating Scales (BARS) method. Through an analysis of the existing appraisal system, this study found that the sole use of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) is insufficient to measure complex behavioral aspects. Therefore, BARS is proposed as a more comprehensive method. The designed BARS system incorporates specific behavioral indicators relevant to the job of factory operators. Additionally, this research outlines an implementation strategy involving socialization, integration with existing systems, feedback provision, and periodic evaluation. The results indicate that BARS can improve the quality of performance appraisals and provide more constructive feedback to employees.

Increasing detections of the margay: occupancy, density, and activity patterns in Madre de Dios, Peru

This study provides novel insights into the ecology of the margay (Leopardus wiedii), focusing on its occupancy, density, and activity patterns in the Madre de Dios region, Peru, by utilizing both arboreal and terrestrial camera traps. Conducted across 10 km2, the research achieved 47 detections, utilizing semi-arboreal, lower canopy cameras for the first time to capture margay activities. Occupancy models revealed a mean occupancy probability of 53.82% and a detection probability of 6.57%. Among the environmental covariates, diameter at breast height (DBH) was identified as a significant predictor, negatively impacting occupancy, suggesting margays favor areas with smaller tree diameters. Contrary to expectations, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) did not significantly influence occupancy. Tree density exhibited a positive, though non-significant, association with margay presence. Spatial capture-recapture (SECR) models estimated a margay density of 71.46 individuals per 100 km², with significant sex-based differences in spatial behavior. Males demonstrated larger home ranges (approximately 13.50 km²) compared to females (approximately 3.79 km²). Activity pattern analyses indicated primary nocturnal behavior with peaks at midnight to 3 am, 5 am, and 6 pm. Temporal overlap analysis revealed a low overlap coefficient with jaguarundis (Dhat1 = 0.21) and a higher overlap with ocelots (Dhat4 = 0.79), reflecting intricate interspecies dynamics. Our findings highlight important ecological aspects of margay behavior, including habitat preferences, nocturnal activity patterns, and interspecies interactions, which were effectively captured through the combined use of terrestrial and arboreal camera traps. The study emphasizes the importance of habitat preservation and the development of conservation strategies tailored to the ecological needs of margays, potentially influencing global practices for the management and protection of lesser-studied semi-arboreal wild cats.

Study of Bacteriological Content and Risk Factors of Drinking Water Consumption Patterns in Cases of Stunting Toddler

Stunting is one of global nutrition problems, especially in developing countries including Indonesia. The prevalence of stunting in Demak Regency, Indonesia, in 2021 was 4.34%, and in 2022 it was 2.99%. However, stunting problem remains a priority because the impact of stunting can hinder efforts to enhance the health of the society and the development of the quality of human resources. Risk factors for stunting are influenced by behavioral aspects of the environment, like sanitation and drinking water. This study aimed to determine the content of bacteriological factors that contribute to the risk pattern of drinking water consumption in cases of stunting toddlers in Temuroso Village, Working Area of Guntur I Health Center, Demak Regency, Indonesia. This study was a quantitative observational case study. The population included families and toddlers in Temuroso Village, totaling as many as 854 people. The sampling technique was purposive sampling, so the sample size was 182 people for cases and controls. Data analysis used Chi-Square test and linear regression test. The bacteriological content was predominantly negative (66.5%), with the majority of subjects showing no infections (67%). Most participants fell into the high drinking water consumption category (62.1%). Stunting incidence was significantly associated with bacteriological content (p <0.0001) and drinking water consumption patterns (p <0.0001). Among these, bacteriological content was the most dominant factor influencing stunting (exp B =0.199). In summary, the primary risk factors for stunting among toddlers in Temuroso Village, within the Guntur I Health Center working area, Demak Regency, were bacteriological content (p <0.000) and drinking water consumption patterns (p <0.000).