Animo Repository - De La Salle University Research
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Enhancing knowledge management through life cycle thinking; a case study of facade cladding systems
No full textThis study develops a novel Knowledge Management – Life Cycle Assessment (KM-LCA) framework designed to institutionalize sustainability knowledge in construction decision-making. Bridging ISO 30401:2018 (Knowledge Management Systems), ISO 14040:2006 (Life Cycle Assessment Principles), novel application of Roger’s Diffusion of Innovation (DOI) and guided by Knowledge-to-Action (KTA) funnel, the study presents a construction-oriented corporate model that aligns soft and hard systems thinking. A stratified yet balanced sampling method was applied to ensure equitable representation across all demographic profiles within the organization using a single-entity case-study design. Reliability and assumption tests (Cronbach’s α \u3e 0.6, Shapiro-Wilk, and Levene’s) confirmed data validity for one-way ANOVA. Findings revealed that, for Behavioral/Cultural Readiness, significant differences existed only across roles in the organization (ρ = 0.017). highlighting functional disparities in personal motivation, and knowledge-sharing behavior. For Technical Readiness, an LCA comparative case study of EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finishing System) and ACP (Aluminum Composite Panel) was utilized as a diagnostic tool. Findings revealed that differences were marginally significant for roles (ρ = 0.053) and near significant for tenure (ρ = 0.061), suggesting that exposure duration influences technical adoption of LCA practices. The results validate the framework’s novelty in connecting cultural readiness, technical capacity, and knowledge diffusion within a single integrative model that advances sustainable construction management practice. Keywords: Knowledge Management, Life Cycle Assessment, Life Cycle Thinking, ISO 30401, ISO 14040, Sustainable Construction Industr
Banyuhay ng Makabayang Bakla: Ang Naratibo at Pagkakakilanlan ng mga Aktibistang LGBTQ+ sa Metro Manila
No full textAng salitang banyuhay o “bagong anyo ng buhay” ay isang metapora na sumasalamin sa pag-usbong ng pagkakakilanlan ng mga aktibistang LGBTQ+. Ginamit ang disenyong narrative case study upang masiyasat ang (1) pagbabago sa pagkakakilanlan bago at pagkatapos sumali sa mga pagkilos, (2) mga salik na nag-udyok na kilalanin ang sarili bilang ganap na aktibista, at (3) pagkakakilanlan batay sa mga kategorya ng Social Identity Theory–Self-Categorization Theory (SIT-SCT). Bilang unang hakbang, pinasagutan ng mga mananaliksik ang pre-interview questionnaire upang makakalap ng inisyal na impormasyon sa mga kalahok. Sumunod dito, isinagawa ang semi-structured interview sa anim na kalahok mula sa iba\u27t ibang organisasyong nakadestino sa Metro Manila. Sinuri ang datos gamit ang Modelo ng Pagsusuri ng Salaysay ni Labov (1972). Mula sa pagsusuring ito, lumitaw ang mga sumusunod na panloob at panlabas na salik na nag-udyok sa mga aktibistang LGBTQ+ na lumahok sa aktibismo: (1) maagang pagkamulat at pagtuklas sa sarili, (2) personal na pagbubuo at pagninilay ng identidad, at (3) impluwensiya ng relasyon sa paligid. Batay sa SIT-SCT, lumabas na pinahahalagahan ng mga aktibista ang kolektibong identidad at pakikilahok. Inirerekomenda ng mga mananaliksik na lawakan ang saklaw ng pag-aaral sa mga aktibistang LGBTQ+ mula sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng bansa at siyasatin ang mga naratibo ng mga aktibistang may iba pang adbokasiya
Full Issue (Volume 4, Issue 2): Evolving Englishes, Innovative Pedagogies, and Emerging Linguistic Insights
No full textAbstract not applicable
Influence of temperature on porcine skin decellularization using osmotic cycling for tissue engineering applications
No full textDecellularization is a viable strategy for creating extracellular matrix (ECM) scaffolds for skin substitutes. The ECM, located within the epidermis, is essential for tissue structure, repair, and function. Among animal sources, porcine skin is a viable and comparable source as a potential decellularized scaffold. This study evaluated the hybrid decellularization method for porcine skin through the use of hypotonic and hypertonic solutions subjected to three different temperature treatments (2-4°C, 22°C, and 37°C). This approach aimed to eliminate cellular components while preserving the structural integrity and composition of the native ECM without using conventional detergents. The decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) was evaluated through macroscopic evaluation and assessment of decellularization efficiency through Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Attenuated Total Reflectance–Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Macroscopic evaluation showed a gradual color change into translucent white tissue, exhibiting decellularization within 7 to 9 hours. H&E staining analysis revealed that higher temperatures resulted in better cell removal. Although the highest temperature caused moderate damage, a visibly intact ECM structure. While for SEM, the highest temperature resulted in enhanced cell removal efficiency; however, the preservation of the ECM structure was compromised. Spectral analysis shows a difference in the chemical structure and composition of the native skin and decellularized porcine skin. The presence of structural components specific within the ECM suggests the preservation of tissue composition. These preliminary results demonstrate the feasibility of a detergent-free and temperature-dependent approach that can provide efficient cell removal and preservation of the ECM integrity. Notably, this method offers a safer alternative for porcine tissue decellularization, as it eliminates the use of harsh detergents posed by its cytotoxic risks and potential tissue damage. By reducing effects associated with detergent-based methods, this approach increases the suitability for biomedical applications. The findings may contribute to ongoing research to improve the approaches for the development of skin substitute materials
Traditional medicine practices and allergic reactions in selected areas of the Philippines: A survey of folk remedies and their effects on allergies
No full textThe study explored the association between allergic reactions and the practice of folk medicine in the Philippines, specifically in the provinces of Benguet, Nueva Ecija, and Pangasinan. The research applied a mixed-methods approach, blending quantitative survey results from 99 respondents with qualitative interviews in establishing the prevalence, utilization patterns, and health effects of traditional medicine. Findings showed that Lagundi, Bayabas, and Sambong herbal medicines were the most utilized, while boiling and oral intake were the most prevalent preparation and administration methods. The survey revealed that 27 out of 99 participants utilized traditional medicine when ill, the majority of whom were aged 26–35 years. Use of conventional medicine had a high correlation with place (p=0.04, Cramer\u27s V=0.255), while education level and age had a moderate correlation. Participants used traditional medicine for reasons of accessibility, affordability, and as a cultural practice. Side effects were also experienced by others, including allergic reactions such as skin irritation, respiratory complications, and hypersensitivity. Statistical analysis, such as Chi-square analysis, correlation analysis, and use-value analysis, was used to ascertain the degree of concordance between the consumption of traditional medicine and allergic reactions. Overall findings indicated that allergic reactions could be caused by a substance, plant, preparation, or dosage; however, more evidence was required for establishing causality relations. The research also determined that most of the respondents found traditional medicine to be practical or equivalent to orthodox medicine in curing common diseases. This research highlights the cultural and pragmatic aspects of conventional medicine among Filipino groups, including its risks and benefits. Implications for the findings are provided to researchers, clinicians, and public health administrators on how to understand and promote the safety, efficacy, and long-term use of traditional medicine practices. It also recommends educating the communities in safe practices and incorporating effective remedies into overall health interventions
Prevalence and awareness of yeast infection in type two diabetes mellitus outpatients in San Pedro, Laguna based on urinalysis and survey results
No full textOver the next succeeding years, it is predicted there will be an exponential increase in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) cases in the Philippines, affecting 1 in 14 Filipino adults over the age of 40. With the current state of diabetes in the country, it is crucial to explore what factors can influence such outcomes. The lack of literature associating T2DM and yeast infections prompts the urgency for this study to contribute to the existing knowledge of yeast infections in the local setting. Thus, this study aims to promote awareness by investigating the prevalence among T2DM patients. The urinalysis results of 101 outpatients in San Pedro, Laguna were collected together with a curated survey that tackled patient awareness, recurrence of infection, sexual activity (in the last 90 days), symptoms and treatment plans alongside with the type of medication prescribed. Throughout the four-month (September 2024 to January 2025) data collection, 15 out of 101 patients have yeast infection affected more women especially within the 40 - 69-year-old bracket. Out of all the factors found in urinalysis results only pus cell count had a statistically significant turnout and as for survey-based pre-disposing factors, sexual activity and presentation of symptoms were factors found to be statistically significant. These results can be used as a point of reference for medical practitioners to better understand and diagnose their patients. As well as improving patient awareness through engaging in healthy dialogue to find optimal solutions in conjunction with their lifestyle choices to prevent complications such as yeast infections
Leaf disease of dracaena trifasciata (Prain) Mabb. caused by lasiodiplodia theobromae (Pat.) Griffon & Maubl. and fungal growth inhibition by three common household disinfectants
No full textThe snake plant (Dracaena trifasciata (Prain) Mabb.), formerly known as Sansevieria trifasciata Prain, is a popular ornamental plant in the Philippines. Beyond its decorative value, D. trifasciata is also known for its use in traditional medicine, potential to improve indoor air quality, and for producing fibers that are used in textiles and other products, highlighting its economic importance. This study is the first to identify Lasiodiplodia theobromae (Pat.) Griffon & Maubl. as the causative agent of leaf blight on D. trifasciata in the Philippines, a globally reported, opportunistic pathogen of various crops. Nine fungal isolates obtained from symptomatic leaves were purified, but only one isolate (Dr 002) was confirmed to be pathogenic. This was based on lesion development and re-isolation of the pathogen from wounded leaves, establishing Koch’s postulates. Additionally, typical morphological traits of L. theobromae, such as rapid mycelial growth and darkening colonies, were observed on PDA. To evaluate potential treatments, the study tested three common chemical disinfectants, 70% isopropyl alcohol, 6% sodium hypochlorite, and 6% hydrogen peroxide, on fungal growth in vitro. All treatments displayed significant inhibitory effects (p \u3c 0.05), with isopropyl alcohol achieving 100% inhibition. Sodium hypochlorite and hydrogen peroxide showed 95.2% and 87.8% inhibition, respectively. Statistical test ANOVA revealed significant differences among treatments. However, Tukey HSD confirmed that the treatments differed significantly from the control but not from each other, indicating comparable effectiveness. These findings confirm that L. theobromae is a pathogen of D. trifasciata. Common household disinfectants, most notably isopropyl alcohol, inhibit its growth in vitro, offering an affordable and accessible approach to managing L. theobromae infections in snake plants. Further phytotoxicity testing is recommended
Development and testing of a pol gene-based pcr assay for the detection of feline immunodeficiency virus (fiv) in domestic cats
No full textFeline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) is a retrovirus that compromises the immune system of cats with molecular detection often hindered by high genetic diversity and the absence of regional reference sequences. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a PCR assay targeting the pol gene for FIV detection in Philippine domestic cats, and compare it with commonly-used gag-based primers. Using designed and published primers, PCR amplification was performed on DNA extracted from FIV-positive and -negative cats. Sanger sequencing determined nucleotide composition, phylogenetic analysis assessed clustering and bootstrap support, and BLASTN confirmed sequence identity. Results showed that pol-based primers produced more consistent amplification than gag. Of the three pol sequences analyzed phylogenetically, all clustered with known FIV pol sequences and exhibited strong bootstrap support but only one of the three sequences, originating from an FIV-positive cat, was interpreted as a likely true positive. FIV-negative cats also showed clustering with known FIV sequences, though with lower support and poor sequence quality, suggesting incidental similarity or novel strain detection. Despite this, BLASTN returned no significant matches for any sample, suggesting the presence of potentially novel or highly divergent strains. This study implies that pol-based assays may offer greater sensitivity in detecting divergent FIV strains and underscores the need for more localized sequence data. It is recommended that future studies include recombination analysis, deep sequencing, and validation methods such as endpoint dilution to confirm novel FIV lineages