bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of drip irrigation and mulching on the yield of an apple orchard
Authors:   Agricultural academy, Sofia, Institute of soil science, agrotechnologies and plant protection - Sofia, Gigova Antoaneta , Petrovа Vesela ,   Agricultural academy, Sofia, Institute of soil science, agrotechnologies and plant protection - Sofia
Published: March 2024

In 2020 - 2021, on the territory of the experimental field „Chelopechene“ of IPAZR „N. Pushkarov“ an experimental trial was conducted with an intensive apple plantation of the Florina variety, created in 2017. The soils in the study area are leached cinnamon forest. In terms of rainfall, both years are very dry with a guarantee of 95.67% (2020) and 94.07% (2021). For 2020, on average, during the vegetation period of the apple plantation in the infant period, to maintain the soil moisture in the range of 70% of FC to 100% of FC, it was necessary to submit 10 watering rates with an irrigation rate of 380 mm, and for 2021. 12 watering cans with an irrigation rate of 510 mm. Water savings when using mulch averages 30-35%. For 2020 (second year) in the version with mulch, the yield is 517 kgda-1 and in the version without mulch, the yield is 266 kgda-1. In 2021 (third year), the apple orchard had a yield of 1 383 kgda-1 in the version with mulch, and 858 kgda-1 in the version without mulch. Data show that mulching has a positive effect on yield by an average of 51-62%.
Outsourcing verejného obstarávania obcami v Českej republike a jeho úspešnosť
Authors: Nemec Juraj , Šumpíková Markéta , Ďurčeková Ina
Published: March 2024

Jednou z najčastejších príčin rozhodnutia alternatívne zabezpečiť – outsourcovať - určitú internú službu je nedostatočná inštitucionálna kapacita realizovať danú službu alebo proces interným spôsobom. V podmienkach mimoriadne fragmentovanej územnej štruktúry Českej  republiky je možné preto predpokladať, že  outsourcing verejného obstarávania by mohol byť častým riešením. Cieľom tejto state bolo posúdiť rozsah a príčiny outsourcingu verejného obstarávania obcami v Českej republike a zhodnotiť jeho výsledky. Hodnotenie výsledkov sme realizovali z pohľadu „bezpečnosti“ – skúmali sme, do akej miery outsourcing verejného obstarávania znižuje riziko neúspechu obce v revíznych procesoch verejného obstarávania. Výsledky nášho skúmania na jednej strane potvrdzujú predpoklad, že obce v ČR často prikročia k outsourcovaniu procesu verejného obstarávania. Na druhej strane ale prinášajú aj mimoriadne zaujímavé špecifické zistenia, ktoré sú z pohľadu súčasnej miery poznania problematiky významne originálne. Prvým takým problémom je stav, že obce si v mnohých prípadoch nedokážu vybrať spoľahlivú firmu, ktorá by ich zastupovala kvalitne a obhájila svoje postupy v námietkovom konaní. Oslovení odborníci podali dve kľúčové vysvetlenia tohto stavu – obce vyberajú podľa ceny a obce nemajú kvalifikáciu na to, aby si dobre vybrali, kto ich bude zastupovať. Druhým doloženým problémom je využitie outsourcingu na manipuláciu výsledku verejnej zákazky.
Economic Connections of the Public Sector with the Health Literacy of the Population
Authors: Šetek Jaroslav , Alina Jiří , Poláčková Eliška
Published: March 2024

The mutual interplay of health and education policy at both national and regional levels is a testimonial to the health literacy standards of the population, from which the quantitative and qualitative component of human capital arises, of which the healthcare capital is an important organic component. These capital components of human resources are an important determinant for ensuring the stability of economic growth. This is confirmed by economic theories of endogenous growth that can fully rely on empirical research based on a correlation of investment in human resources on the one hand, and population welfare, the quality of life and the economic growth on the other. Investors in human resources in the field of health through the creation of educational programmes are numerous, from the state authorities to the lowest territorial units. Due to the application of the principle of subsidiarity in the implementation of social policy intentions, the position of investors, municipalities and regions is growing in importance, as a comprehensive view of creating quality infrastructure for human life and providing quality public services in line with societal challenges has emerged in recent years. A connecting factor is the quality of human resources as a key factor in the competiveness of a region.
Metodika rozvoje manažerů pro digitalizovaný průmysl
Authors: Pavlica Karel , Matoušková Ingrid , Kaiser Robert B.
Published: March 2024

Tato studie se věnuje návrhu metodiky rozvoje manažerů v digitalizovaném průmyslu. Vy-chází z předpokladu, že v souvislosti z digitalizací organizací se změní také nároky na jejich management. Studie je rozčleněna do tří hlavních částí. První část textu přináší sociologické poznatky o vlivu digitalizace na společnost a její organizace, zabývá se základními paradigma-ty řešení vztahu mezi lidmi/organizacemi a technologiemi a přináší také přehled výsledků ak-tuálních studií a empirických výzkumů zaměřených na identifikaci charakteristik, díky kterým manažeři dokážou úspěšně zvládat změny spojené s digitalizací. Druhá část potom přibližuje osvědčené zásady a přístupy k rozvoji manažerů podle poznatků odborníků z „The Center for Creative Leadership“: Poslední část textu obsahuje a zdůvodňuje rámcový návrh metodiky roz-voje manažerů pro digitalizovaný průmysl a vymezuje úkoly, které bude v souvislosti s jejím dalším rozpracováním potřebné splnit.
Anti-systémové strany a politika militantní demokracie
Authors: Danics Štefan
Published: March 2024

Autor hodlá přiblížit politiku militantní demokracie, která svými nástroji eliminuje politické nepřátele demokracie. Zejména ty, kteří se zorganizovali do stran a otevřeně soutěží o moc ve státě. V tomto ohledu analyzuje „zákaz“ antisystémových stran, jako nosný nástroj militantní demokracie. Upozorňuje na pozitiva, ale i negativa „zákazu“ antisystémových stran. Nabízí i nové pojetí „zákazu“ antisystémových stran, které by mělo spíše plnit funkci prevence než státní represe.
Změny typologie daňových mixů zemí EU období "předkrizového" a "současného"
Authors: Borůvková Aneta
Published: March 2024

Cílem příspěvku je vyhodnotit, zda došlo ke změnám v typologii daňových struktur v zemích Evropské unie, a zda tyto změny mohly být důsledkem finanční krize 2008. Hodnocení změn probíhá pomocí metody matematické statistiky – shlukové analýzy. Struktury jsou analyzovány na základě implicitních daňových sazeb spotřeby a práce, a to v jejich dekomponované podobě (jedná se tedy pouze o část daňového mixu). Porovnáváno je období „předkrizové“ mezi lety 2006–2007 s obdobím „současným“, tedy 2014–2015. Je porovnáváno 27 členských států Evrop-ské unie za pomoci dat Eurostatu.
Recent Advances in Bio-Tribology From Joint Lubrication to Medical Implants: A Review
Authors: Akhai Shalom , Wadhwa Amandeep Singh
Published: March 2024

Bio-tribology, the study of lubrication, wear, and friction in biological systems, has made recent strides in the lubrication of medical implants and joints. This comprehensive review discusses the most recent developments in bio-tribology, with an emphasis on the transition from basic science to medical engineering applications. An overview of bio-tribology and its increasing significance in medicine commences the study. Following this, recent research on the composition of synovial fluid and its function in minimizing friction in natural joints is discussed. Medical implant tribology, including degradation issues in dental prostheses and joint replacements, is then addressed. This study investigates the manner in which surface modifications and coatings improve the tribological performance of medical implants. It emphasizes recent developments in material science and engineering. This article emphasizes the significance of minimizing implant material degradation in relation to the functionality and longevity of biomedical devices. Following this, digital models, simulations, and state-of-the-art imaging techniques that have propelled bio-tribology forward are highlighted. In addition to proposing potential research avenues to overcome the current obstacles, the article highlights the interdisciplinary nature of bio-tribology and urges collaboration among tribology, materials science, and biomechanics researchers.
A Comparison Study Between the Performance Characteristics of Circular and Rectangular Recess Pads of Hydrostatic Bearings
Authors: Bedairi Badr H. , Alqash Sultan I. , Azzam Badr S.
Published: March 2024

As known in mechanical engineering, any rotating shafts must be supported on bearings to reduce friction and wear and so decreasing the power losses and increasing the shaft life. These bearing may be rolling or sliding. Although the rolling bearings have low friction than sliding, but the sliding (journal) bearing can possess high working life than rolling ones if they furnished with good lubrication systems. These lubrication systems are divided into two types. The first type is the hydrodynamic lubrication which generates the oil pressure by the effect of squeeze action. Whereas the other type is the hydrostatic lubrication which generates the oil pressure by the effect of an external pressure source (pump). In the hydrostatic bearing, the oil is pressurized from the external pressure source into a pocket (or pockets) manufactured in the bearing inside the surface between the shaft and the bearing to generate a projected area for carrying the radial applied load. These pockets are generally of circular shape in most applications. In this study, a rectangular recess shape is proposed to be as the pocket instead of the circular one. The bearing characteristic performance parameters as: pressure distribution in the bearing land, the load capacity, the friction torque, the power losses, and the temperature rise are considered. A comparison between the performance of both the circular and rectangular recess pads is given based on unifying the recess shape parameter.
Strategic Leadership and Diplomatic Agility: A Comparative Analysis of Conflict Resolution in South Africa and Qatar
Authors: Elamin Mustafa Osman I.
Published: March 2024

This research delves into the dynamic interplay between strategic leadership and diplomatic agility in conflict resolution, juxtaposing Nelson Mandela's transformational leadership in post-apartheid South Africa with Qatar's diplomatic navigation through the 2017 geopolitical blockade. It aims to uncover how leadership dynamics are crucial in guiding nations through conflicts and crises in diverse geopolitical landscapes, employing a qualitative comparative methodology that includes case study analysis and thematic literature review to investigate leadership virtues, diplomatic engagements, and the strategic use of international law. By comparing Mandela's commitment to reconciliation and unity with Qatar's resilience and economic ingenuity, this study seeks to articulate core principles underpinning strategic leadership and diplomatic agility, highlighting their applicability across various geopolitical challenges. Anticipated outcomes include the identification of key leadership traits such as ethical governance, strategic foresight, and the ability to foster unity, alongside effective diplomatic engagement and adherence to international norms. This investigation enriches the academic discourse on conflict resolution by providing insights into the synergy between leadership and diplomacy in managing complex disputes, underscoring the adaptability of leadership strategies in changing geopolitical dynamics, and setting a foundation for future leadership efforts aimed at achieving global peace, stability, and progress. Furthermore, it opens avenues for further scholarly inquiry into leadership dynamics in conflict resolution, enhancing the academic understanding and offering practical guidance for policymakers and leaders, thereby emphasizing the critical importance of visionary leadership and diplomatic finesse in achieving sustainable resolutions to international conflicts.
Salvation and documentation: additional (probable) type material of South American land-snail species (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora) in the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin
Authors: Breure Abraham S.H. , Ablett Jonathan D.
Published: March 2024

Type material of some South American species in the Museum für Naturkunde Berlin, belonging to different families is documented. It includes 16 species: Bulimus cuneus L. Pfeiffer, 1854, Bulimus proteus Broderip, 1832, Bulimus scalarioides L. Pfeiffer, 1867, Bulimus similaris J. Moricand, 1856, Andinia (Ehrmanniella) dedicata Weyrauch & Zilch, 1954, Helix hettneriana E. von Martens, 1897, Eurycampta hidalgonis Döring, 1877, Helix aequatoris L. Pfeiffer, 1860, Helix bituberculata L. Pfeiffer, 1853, Helix bourcieri L. Pfeiffer, 1853, Helix neogranadensis L. Pfeiffer, 1845, Cyclostoma (Cyclophorus) bourcieri L. Pfeiffer, 1854, and Helix platygyra Albers, 1857. The concept of the “salvation” of type material is explained.
The mediating role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between marital conflicts and tendency to marital infidelity in couples
Authors: Navabinejad Shokouh , Rostami Mehdi , Parsakia Kamdin
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim: Family is known as the most important unit of societies, and marriage is the most basic human relationship; Because it forms the primary structure of family relationship and the growth of the next generations. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the mediating role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between marital conflicts and the tendency to marital infidelity. Methods: This research is descriptive-correlation type. The statistical population of the present study included all the couples who referred to the counseling centers of the 1st to 5th districts of Tehran in 2022. Among these people, 100 couples (200 people) were selected by the available sampling method. In order to collect data, Bar-on's Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire (1980), Marital Conflicts Questionnaire (2008) and Bashirpour et al (2018) Tendency to Marital Infidelity Questionnaire were used. Moreover, Pearson's correlation coefficient and path analysis were used for statistical analysis of the data. Results: The findings showed an insignificant relationship between marital conflicts and the tendency to marital infidelity. Also, the results showed that emotional intelligence plays a suppressing role in the relationship between marital conflicts and the tendency to marital infidelity so that the indirect relationship between marital conflicts and the tendency to marital infidelity is significant by mediating emotional intelligence. Conclusion: Based on the findings, it can be concluded that people whose emotional intelligence plays a mediating role in the relationship between marital conflicts and the tendency for marital infidelity.
Comparing the effectiveness of child-centered cognitive behavioral therapy (CCBT) and mother-child attachment therapy on the symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder
Authors: Mohammadi Alireza , Zadhasan Zohreh , Rahimi Hasan , Amini Masoumeh
Published: March 2024

Objective: This research aimed to compare the effectiveness of child-centered cognitive behavioral therapy (CCBT) and mother-child attachment therapy on the symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder. Method: In terms of the purpose of the present research, it was a quasi-experiment with a pre-test and post-test design with two experimental groups and a control group and a two-month follow-up period. The statistical population of the research included all children aged 10 to 12 years who referred to a counseling center in the 8th district of Tehran in 2022, 30 people were randomly selected in two experimental groups (10 people each) and one group Control (10 people) were assigned. The research tools include the Children’s Symptoms Inventory (CSI-4), child-centered cognitive behavioral therapy protocol based on Kendall & Hedtke's coping cat program (2006) and mother-child attachment-based therapy (MCAT) protocol derived from Purnell (2004) and King & Newham (2008). Results: The findings indicate that both treatments were effective on oppositional defiant disorder. The efficacy of both was stable in the follow-up phase according to the Bonferroni post hoc test. The results of data analysis show that there is no significant difference between their effectiveness and both are equally effective (p<0.05). Conclusion: It can be concluded that MCAT and CCBT were effective in the treatment of children's oppositional defiant disorder. Therefore, it is suggested that specialists use these two approaches in therapy.
Investigating psychometric properties of the scale of emotional experience towards the spouse
Authors: Yousefi Zahra , Ghafaralahi Elham , Golparvar Mohsen , Kiani Peikani Zahra
Published: March 2024

Objective: The objective of the present study was to establish and assess the psychometric properties of the scale of emotional experience towards the spouse in 2018-19. Methods and Materials: For this purpose, all the married women in the city of Isfahan were considered as the statistical population from which 300 married women were selected as the statistical sample using convenience sampling. The research instruments included the scale of emotional experience towards the spouse, extroversion and introversion subscales of NEO Personality Inventory (Costa & McCrae, 1992), and triangulation (Dehghani & Yousefi, 2019). The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (correlation analysis, exploratory factor analysis, and norm determination. Findings: Convergent validity and divergent validity results revealed that the subscale of negative emotional experience towards the spouse was significantly positively related to neuroticism and triangulation (convergent validity), but negatively related to extroversion (divergent validity). The subscale of positive emotional experience towards the spouse, on the other hand, had a positive relationship to extroversion (convergent validity) and a significantly negative relationship to neuroticism and triangulation (divergent validity). Exploratory factor analysis showed two basic factors called positive emotional experience towards the spouse and negative emotional experience towards the spouse. Test-retest coefficients, at a three-week interval, confirmed test-retest reliability. Conclusion: Thus, based on what the results revealed, this test can be used to assess the scale of emotional experience towards the spouse in the married women both in research and psychotherapy.
Cosas, bienes y animales (Tribuna)
Authors: Bercovitz Rodrigez-Cano Rodrigo
Published: March 2024

La Ley 17/2021 introduce treinta y una modificaciones en el Código Civil, además de una en la Ley Hipotecaria y tres en la Ley de Enjuiciamiento Civil, en aras del reconocimiento de los animales como “seres vivos dotados de sensibilidad”, siguiendo el ejemplo de otros ordenamientos. La Ley se presenta como un cambio radical en la consideración jurídica de los animales, si bien probablemente hubiera sido suficiente la regla contenida en el nuevo artículo 333.bis.1 Código Civil, además de las disposiciones específicas en los casos de crisis familiares. La sensibilidad social de cada momento y lugar en relación con los animales tendría que haberse previsto como condicionante de su protección.
Crónica Jurisprudencial (II): enero-abril 2022
Authors: García Vicente José-Ramón
Published: March 2024

Crónica seleccionada por el autor de tres sentencias de Pleno de la sala primera del Tri-bunal Supremo. Por una parte, las SSTS 866/2021, de 15 de diciembre y 869/2021, de 17 de diciembre, ambas referidas al alcance de la función calificadora del registrador de la propiedad respecto al decreto de adjudicación a favor del ejecutante de la vivienda habi-tual del deudor dictado al amparo del artículo 671 LEC en una subasta sin postores. Por otra, la STS 277/2022, de 31 de marzo, referida a la gestación por subrogación y modo de determinación de la filiación materna de la comitente. Junto a las sentencias de Pleno se da cuenta de un conjunto de sentencias sobre distintas materias dictadas por la Sala Primera en el periodo enero-abril 2022: entre otras, eficacia entre particulares de los de-rechos fundamentales, contrato de seguro, grupos de sociedades, alcance del art. 400 LEC, o régimen concursal del hipotecante no deudor.
PENGALAMAN FORMASI SPIRITUALITAS MAHASISWA TEOLOGI MELALUI PEMBELAJARAN DI KELAS OLEH DOSEN
Authors: Manik Donald
Published: March 2024

Pengalaman formasi spiritualitas mahasiswa teologi melalui pembelajaran di kelas oleh dosen. Formasi spiritualitas adalah pembentukan kerohanian, yang dialami oleh setiap orang percaya sepanjang hidupnya melalui berbagai cara yang dipakai Allah dalam karya Roh Kudus, bertujuan mencapai kedewasaan rohani menjadi serupa dengan Kristus. Setiap dosen berperan dalam pembelajaran di kelas agar mahasiswa mengalami formasi spiritualitas melalui pembelajaran yang diampunya. Adapun garis besar hasil studi ini adalah bahwa dosen diharapkan akan lebih meningkatkan peran umumnya dan mempertahankan peran khusus yang diembannya demi memaksimalkan pengalaman formasi spiritualitas mahasiswa melalui pembelajaran di kelas. Mengenai hasil pengalaman formasi spiritualitas dalam diri mahasiswa, seluruh mahasiswa mengaku telah ditolong dalam hal berkomitmen untuk hidup benar dan taat kepada Tuhan. Sedangkan dalam hal semangat melakukan penginjilan perlu mendapat perhatian oleh karena prosentasenya mendekati batas deviasi bawah. Demikian pula dalam hal kesetiaan disiplin rohani dan semangat dalam belajar, hendaknya mendapat perhatian dosen dan memerlukan tindak lanjut karena prosentasenya telah masuk dalam wilayah standar deviasi bawah.
STUDI RELASI ANTARA TINDAKAN KELAS DAN SUASANA BELAJAR MENGAJAR
Authors: Kho Yunus
Published: March 2024

Di lingkungan kelas, guru merupakan faktor terpenting dalam menentukan keberhasilan suatu pembelajaran. Guru juga harus mampu menciptakan kondisi lingkungan atau ruang tempat berlangsungnya pembelajaran seoptimal mungkin, dengan kata lain seorang guru harus bisa melakukan tindakan yang tepat di kelasnya dengan baik. Strategi belajar mengajar penting untuk direncanakan dan dilaksanakan guru. Berbeda dengan strategi belajar mengajar yang dilakukan guru, pada dasarnya adalahdalam rangka tercapainya tujuan pembelajaran. Namun tercapainya tujuan pembelajaran terjadi di dalam kelas yang nyaman dan menyenangkan yang menghasilkan kualitas pembelajaran yang terbaik. Tanpa ada yang kalah, karena guru setelah menyelesaikan pembelajaran merasa senang dan tidak tertekan, semua siswa mendapatkan hasil pembelajaran yangmaksimal. Oleh sebab itu, maka tindakan yang dilakukan guru di dalam kelas sangatlah penting untuk mencapai keberhasilan proses belajar mengajar.
STRATEGI PEMBELAJARAN KONTEKSTUAL: SUATU USULAN BAGI PEMBELAJARAN PENDIDIKAN AGAMA KRISTEN (PAK)
Authors: Nahuway Yohannes
Published: March 2024

Strategi pembelajaran kontekstual merupakan salah satu strategi pembelajaran yang ada pada dunia pendidikan. Strategi pembelajaran kontekstual mengasumsikan konteks kehidupan sosial dan budaya merupakan sumber serta media belajar yang penuh makna, orang tidak hanya dapat belajar dari membaca buku dan literatur. Dengan demikian, tujuan dari strategi pembelajaran ini adalah masalah kehidupan nyata di tengah keluarga, gereja, dan di dalam masyarakat dapat dihadirkan ke dalam proses pembelajaran itu untuk diperbincangkan dan dikemukakan penyelesaiannya sebelum melakukan aksi konkret. Konsep dan teori pun dapat dimunculkan melalui konteks budaya. Dalam melakukan penelitian ini penulis mengunakan metode kualitatif untuk mendeskripsikan secara komprehensif. Oleh sebab itu guru PAK harus menguasai bahan pembelajaran yang dirancangkan. Sebab tujuan Pendidikan Agama Kristen adalah pembaharuan hidup, dalam hal ini pembaharuan hidup bukan hanya dari segi kognitif saja yang berubah, namun dalam tingkah laku, cara pandang dan pola pikir juga. Kerajaan Allah menjadi prioritas utama Yesus dalam mengajar setiap orang. Inilah yang menjadi alasan mengapa Yesus datang ke dunia ini.
Antivirals for the treatment of mild and moderate COVID-19 in South Africa
Authors: Perumal R , Naidoo V , Govender S , Gengiah T N
Published: March 2024

While the majority of COVID‐19 cases in South Africa (SA) are mild, patients with severe COVID‐19 requiring hospitalisation present with significant morbidity and mortality and place a substantial burden on healthcare services. Given the low vaccine uptake in SA and other low‐ and middle‐income countries in sub‐Saharan Africa, the high prevalence of comorbidities and limited healthcare system capacity, evidence‐based interventions that reduce the risk of severe disease and death should be considered for implementation. Several antiviral classes have been newly developed or repurposed to treat COVID‐19 early after infection to retard progression to severe disease and reduce the risk of death, particularly in the elderly and/or in patients with comorbidities. COVID‐19 antivirals such as remdesivir, nirmatrelvir/ ritonavir and molnupiravir are safe and cost‐effective and have received either full approval or emergency use authorisation from regulators. Using a proposed test‐and‐treat strategy, judicious use of antivirals could be impactful.
Informal gold miners with mercury toxicity: Novel asymmetrical neurological presentations
Authors: George J , Sadiq E , Moola I , Maharaj S , Mochan A
Published: March 2024

Mercury is a highly toxic heavy metal that may cause neurological, respiratory, gastrointestinal and dermatological illnesses. Previously described neurological manifestations of mercury toxicity are symmetrical, and include a pancerebellar syndrome, generalised seizures and encephalopathy. Mercury is used in the gold mining process, and in artisanal or illicit gold mining, often without necessary protection. Here we describe the cases of two artisanal gold miners from western Johannesburg, South Africa, who presented with atypical neurological manifestations of mercury toxicity. Patient 1 presented with focal seizures, an asymmetrical cerebellar syndrome and an acute encephalopathy. Patient 2 had unilateral cerebellar ataxia. Both patients had toxic mercury levels, with no other cause identified for their symptoms. Patient 1 responded well to chelation therapy, but patient 2 refused admission and further medical treatment. The neurological manifestations of mercury toxicity are typically symmetrical, whereas our two patients presented with markedly asymmetrical features. It is important to maintain a high index of suspicion for mercury poisoning, even in patients with atypical and unilateral or asymmetrical presentations. A prompt diagnosis and the commencement of early chelation therapy have the potential to produce good outcomes.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices of oral HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among healthcare workers in the Ekurhuleni District, South Africa
Authors: Mahlare E , Ramutshila E , Musekiwa A , Kuonza L , Mabuto T
Published: March 2024

Background. Prevention of new HIV infections is crucial for controlling the HIV epidemic. Despite HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) being one of the highly effective approaches to preventing HIV, and being freely available through primary healthcare clinics (PHCs), the uptake of HIV PrEP in South Africa (SA) is low.Objective. To understand knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAPs) of healthcare workers responsible for generating demand for HIV PrEP services, or identifying clients eligible for HIV PrEP services in PHCs in Ekurhuleni District, South Africa.
Methods. We conducted a cross-sectional interviewer-administered survey among healthcare workers from 45 randomly selected PHCs in Ekurhuleni District. We collected information on participant characteristics and their KAPs regarding HIV PrEP service delivery. KAP scores were developed using a priori cut-off points and participants were categorised into binary levels of KAPs. We performed descriptive and multivariable logistic regression analysis in line with the study objectives.
Results. We enrolled 160 study participants from 1 May to 30 June 2022. About two-thirds of the participants (64.4%) were highly knowledgeable about HIV PrEP, and 58.1% self-reported practices that were considered to be good. Notably, 73.1% of participants had negative attitudes toward HIV PrEP delivery. Participants who were aged >50 years had poor HIV PrEP knowledge (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 0.1; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.0 - 0.4; p=0.01) compared with participants <30 years old. Participants aged 30 - 40 years had poor HIV knowledge although their association is not statistically significant. Nurses had higher HIV PrEP knowledge (aOR 11.1; 95% CI 3.8 - 32.4, p<0.001) compared with health promoters. Both nurses (aOR=0.2, 95% CI 0.1 - 0.6; p<0.001) and HIV testing service counsellors (aOR 0.3; 95% CI 0.1 - 0.9; p=0.02) had negative attitudes toward HIV PrEP, compared with health promoters. Nurses had better practices in HIV PrEP delivery compared with health promoters (aOR 2.5; 95% CI 1.0 - 5.9; p=0.04).
Conclusion. Among the healthcare workers tasked with generating demand and identifying clients eligible for HIV PrEP services, low knowledge of HIV PrEP and negative attitudes towards HIV PrEP may be barriers to the uptake of HIV PrEP. Training healthcare workers on HIV PrEP is recommended.
An outbreak within an outbreak: The impact of Infection Prevention and Control strategies on hospital-acquired infections and the occurrence of multi-drug resistant organisms during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Mashigo B , Parker A , Lalla U , Allwood B W , Moolla M S , Lovelock T , Koegelenberg C F N
Published: March 2024

Background. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic placed an unprecedented strain on intensive care units (ICUs) in South Africa. Infection prevention and control (IPC) strategies were highlighted to minimise the risk to healthcare workers and for the protection of patients from contracting hospital-acquired infections (HAIs). During the third wave, our institution adopted a shift system to address severe burnout among ICU personnel. We noted an upstroke in the occurrence of HAIs, specifically carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) and multidrug-resistant (MDR) Acinetobacter baumannii.
Objectives. To report these outbreaks, compare the rate of CRE and A. baumannii infections with the first COVID-19 wave and to analyse its impact on patient outcomes.
Method. We retrospectively analysed data from a prospectively collected registry involving all adult patients with severe COVID-19 admitted to the dedicated COVID-19 ICU from May 2021 to September 2021. Information from the admission database, including the patients’ demographics, comorbidities, laboratory results and length of ICU stay were extracted.
Results. Ninety patients were admitted with severe COVID-19 during the third wave. There was an outbreak of both CRE (the majority Klebsiella pneumoniae) and A. baumannii. Furthermore, 18 patients cultured the same CRE organism, and 25 patients cultured the environmental organism A. baumannii. The HAI rate was significantly higher compared with the first wave published data: 59/90 (65.6%) v. 73/363 (20.1%, p<0.01). Patients with any HAI had a longer mean stay in ICU (10.1 days v. 6.7 days (p<0.01) and a higher mortality of 48/59 (81%) v. 19/31 (61%) (p=0.05).
Conclusion. We observed a very significant rise in HAIs in the COVID-19 ICU during the third wave compared with the first, with almost three times as many patients developing HAIs. Unsurprisingly, it was associated with a longer mean stay in ICU and a higher mortality. The outbreak of both CRE and A. baumannii, and the fact that many patients cultured the same CRE organism and A. baumannii, strongly suggests that a critical breakdown in IPC measures had occurred.
Artificial intelligence (AI) or augmented intelligence? How big data and AI are transforming healthcare: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Moodley K
Published: March 2024

The sanctity of the doctor-patient relationship is deeply embedded in tradition – the Hippocratic oath, medical ethics, professional codes of conduct, and legislation – all of which are being disrupted by big data and ‘artificial’ intelligence (AI). The transition from paper-based records to electronic health records, wearables, mobile health applications and mobile phone data has created new opportunities to scale up data collection. Databases of unimaginable magnitude can be harnessed to develop algorithms for AI and to refine machine learning. Complex neural networks now lie at the core of ubiquitous AI systems in healthcare. A transformed healthcare environment enhanced by innovation, robotics, digital technology, and improved diagnostics and therapeutics is plagued by ethical, legal and social challenges. Global guidelines are emerging to ensure governance in AI, but many low- and middle-income countries have yet to develop context- specific frameworks. Legislation must be developed to frame liability and account for negligence due to robotics in the same way human healthcare providers are held accountable. The digital divide between high- and low-income settings is significant and has the potential to exacerbate health inequities globally.
Experience on postmortem minimally invasive tissue sampling to ascertain the cause of death determination in South African children: A case for implementing as standard of care
Authors: Du Toit J , Storath K , Dunn I , Makekeng P , Moosa M , Mothibi K , Umuneza N , Rees C A , Blau D , Lala S , Adam Y , Velaphi S , Hale M , Swart P , Wadula J , Mothibi L , Wise A , Baba V , Jaglal P , Mahtab S , Madhi S , Dangor Z
Published: March 2024

Determining the death burden for prioritising public health interventions necessitates detailed data on the causal pathways to death. Postmortem minimally invasive tissue sampling (MITS), incorporating histology, molecular and microbial culture diagnostics, enhances cause-of-death attribution, particularly for infectious deaths. MITS proves a valid alternative to full diagnostic autopsies, especially in low- and middle-income countries. In Soweto, South Africa (SA), the Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) programme has delineated over 1 000 child and stillbirth deaths since 2017. This SA CHAMPS site supports advocating for the use of postmortem MITS as routine practice, for more granular insights into under-5 mortality causes. This knowledge is crucial for SA’s pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 3.2, targeting reduced neonatal and under-5 mortality rates. This commentary explores the public health advantages and ethicolegal considerations surrounding implementing MITS as standard of care for stillbirths, neonatal and paediatric deaths in SA. Furthermore, based on the data from CHAMPS, we present three pragmatic algorithmic approaches to the wide array of testing options for cost-effectiveness and scalability of postmortem MITS in South African state facilities.
Savaş Uçağı Geliştirme Projesinde Test ve Üretim Aktivitelerine Bağlı Proje Süresi Tahmini
Authors: Çetin Ahmet Atıl , Dinler Esra
Published: March 2024

Geliştirme faaliyetlerinin uzun zaman aldığı savaş uçağı projelerinde, projenin hedeflenen sürede bitirilmesi ve proje dahilinde gerçekleştirilecek aktivitelerin kendinden sonra gelen aktiviteleri destekleyecek şekilde ilerleyebilmesi adına proje başında yapılan takvimsel öngörülerin doğruluğu çok önemlidir. Bu tarz büyük ölçekli bir proje, özellikle ilk defa gerçekleştiriliyor ise aktivite sürelerinin gerçeğe en uygun şekilde tanımlanması, aktivitelerin öncüllük ilişkilerinin belirlenmesi projenin başarısı adına önemlidir. Bu çalışmada, ülkemizde ilk defa gerçekleştirilen beşinci nesil savaş uçağı geliştirme projesi dahilindeki aktiviteler arasında öncüllük ilişkilerinin tanımlanması ilk adım olarak görülmüştür. Öncüllük ilişkilerinin tanımlanması ile birlikte, gerçekleştirilecek aktivitelerin önceden öngörülemeyecek sebepler ile gecikmesi veya beklenenden çok daha erken bitmesi gibi durumlar da hesaba katılarak iyimser, kötümser ve olası süreler tanımlanmıştır. Program Değerlendirme ve Gözden Geçirme Tekniği (Program Evaluation and Review Technique-PERT) ile proje aktivitelerinin beklenen süreleri hesaplanmıştır. Doğrusal karar modeli ile kritik aktiviteler bulunmuş ve projenin beklenen tamamlanma süresi elde edilmiştir. Bulunan bu süre, geçmişte hayata geçirilen diğer beşinci nesil savaş uçağı projelerinin ilk uçuş ve proje gerçekleşme süreleri ile karşılaştırılarak, yapılan öngörülerin ne kadar uyumlu olduğu konusunda bir çıkarım yapılmıştır. Bununla beraber, müşterinin ihtiyaç tarihini öne çekmesi durumunda farklı süreler için proje gerçekleşme olasılıkları hesaplanmıştır.
Functional responses of larval instars of Cryptolaemus Montrouzieri Mulsant (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) to the Cochineal Scale, Dactylopius Opuntiae (Cockerell) (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae)
Authors: El Aalaoui Mohamed , Sbaghi Mohamed
Published: March 2024

Cryptolaemus montrouzieri Mulsant (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) is native to Australia and commonly known as ‘cochineal destroyer’. This predator has been introduced in many countries worldwide for biological control of many scale pest species including the cochineal of cactus pear, Dactylopius opuntiae (Cockerell) (Hemiptera: Dactylopiidae). The functional responses of larval instars of C. montrouzieri on D. opuntiae (Cockerell) adult females were evaluated under laboratory conditions at 26°C and 12:12 (L:D) h. All larval instars of the predator were first starved for 12 h, then placed individually in Petri dishes (14.5 cm in diameter) with different densities (5, 10, 15, 20, 25) of D. opuntiae females for 24 h. The logistic regression for larval instars of the predator had a negative and significant linear parameter (P1) indicating a type II functional response. Attack rates (0.010, 0.028, 0.042, and 0.052) and handling times (11.945, 6.834, 4.878, and 3.971 hours) for first to fourth instar larvae, respectively, which were estimated using the Holling’s disc equation. This study provides a better understanding of the functional response of C. montrouzieri larval instars to D. opuntiae, which may be useful for effective use of C. montrouzieri in the management of the cactus pear cochineal infestations.
The effect of different systems of growing tomatoes in a protected area on morphological properties and business results
Authors: Cvijanović Vojin D. , Petrović Mladen S. , Momirović Nebojša M. , Moravčević Đorđe , Bajagić Marija D.
Published: March 2024

We are witnessing negative consequences caused by the use of synthetic crop protection products and fertilizers in food production. Interest in the indoor farming of certain plant species has grown significantly. Organic and integrated farming imply the use of natural products, while limiting or completely eliminating the use of synthetic resources. The goal of the research is to study different farming systems in two types of tomatoes and their effect on the variability of certain tomato properties (the number of formed flower trusses, number of fruits per flower truss, and tomato yield). Furthermore, the gross margin of tomato production was calculated. Factor A comprised of different systems of agricultural production: integrated and organic. Factor B comprised two types of tomatoes (cherry and beef). The experiment was set up in a modern indoor space, in controlled microclimate conditions in randomized block design in four replications. The organic system of farming highly significantly affected the studied parameters. The reason for this was the use of a modern growing technology and the approach to the farming itself.
Spatial assessment of the soil organic carbon content under different types of land use in the Ohrid valley
Authors: Mukaetov Duško , Poposka Hristina
Published: March 2024

Spatial assessment of key soil properties is a basic prerequisite for the evidence-based decision making and sustainable use and management of soil. The aim of this work was to estimate the spatial distribution of SOC under different types of land use, by the means of Digital Soil Mapping techniques. A site-specific soil data collection for the Ohrid valley was integrated with continuous and discrete datasets of environmental covariates, serving as predictors. The selected test area outlines the variability of factors influencing the SOC content and spatial distribution. Soil sampling locations were randomly distributed within a predefined mesh with a 1-sq.km spatial resolution and further stratified to outline different types of land use within each mash square. Soil samples were collected from 93 locations at three depths, each 20 cm apart, covering the total area of 10 thousand ha of arable land, forestland, and land under natural vegetation. A set of additional environmental dataset was collected, namely the soil map, land use map, geology map, digital terrain model and its derivatives, satellite images, climate data, as well as a set of indices NDVI, SAVI, BI etc., developed from the remote sensing datasets. Multiple linear regression was used for evaluating the regression pattern between the environmental predictors and the target variable. To estimate spatial variability, several regression tree methods were used. The results obtained using this approach have given a better spatial overview of the most vulnerable areas regarding SOC depletion. Out of 21 locations examined, the content of soil organic carbon in the top layer (0-20 cm.) of forestland was on average 6.81%, while at 22 locations examined under grassland, the average content was 4.07%. The arable land, which is under continuous human impact, had the lowest content of SOC of 2.5% under field crops and 2.61% under perennials.
The role of photosynthetic pigments in the leaf of maize inbred lines in improving photosynthetic efficiency
Authors: Radenović Čedomir , Maksimov Georgij , Popović Aleksandar , Šutova Vitalina , Pavlov Jovan , Sečanski Mile , Golijan Pantović Jelena
Published: March 2024

Methods of absorption and Raman spectroscopy were applied in this study to analyze functions and amounts of photosynthetic pigments in the leaf of maize inbred lines (M1-3-3Sdms, ZPPL186, and ZPPL225). Absorption spectroscopy was used to determine the dynamics of biosynthesis of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids. Raman spectroscopy was used to present the dynamics of biosynthesis of carotenoids and other compounds in terms of origin and kinetic form of the formation of spectra with all spectral bands. Organic molecules and compounds causing the formation of certain spectral bands in the Raman spectrum (carotenoids, phosphates, glycogen, amid III, and others) were determined. Conformational and functional changes of photosynthetic pigments in the leaves of the maize inbred lines, which occur due to changes in the ratio (quotient), were analyzed. The ratios (quotients) obtained indicate different contributions of valence oscillations of their chemical bonds, which inevitably alter the conformation of molecules and compounds. The results presented for the overall study point to minor biogenic differences among the maize inbred lines under study.
Colonización de pequeñas cuencas de Castellón por la nutria. Evidencias de saltos entre cuencas
Authors: Jiménez Juan , Surroca Martín , Chiclana Teresa de , Palomo Juan J.
Published: March 2024

During the last 20 years, otters have been found in isolated river basins in Castellón province (E Spain) where the species was considered absent or extinct by the first national otter survey (1984). These observations can be explained by watershed crossings from basins with a permanent presence of the species via land transects of up to more than 30-km long. Otter persistence in the new rivers will depend on the proximity of healthy donor populations and the habitat suitability (both in quantity and quality) of destination rivers. Watershed crossing will facilitate the recolonisation of isolated basins from which the species disappeared, thus promoting otter expansion.
Expanding the Drosophila toolkit for dual control of gene expression
Authors: Zirin Jonathan , Jusiak Barbara , Lopes Raphael , Ewen-Campen Ben , Bosch Justin A. , Risbeck Alexandria , Forman Corey , Villalta Christians , Hu Yanhui , Perrimon Norbert
Published: March 2024

The ability to independently control gene expression in two different tissues in the same animal is emerging as a major need, especially in the context of inter-organ communication studies. This type of study is made possible by technologies combining the GAL4/UAS and a second binary expression system such as the LexA-system or QF-system. Here, we describe a resource of reagents that facilitate combined use of the GAL4/UAS and a second binary system in various
Drosophila
tissues. Focusing on genes with well-characterized GAL4 expression patterns, we generated a set of more than 40 LexA-GAD and QF2 insertions by CRISPR knock-in and verified their tissue-specificity in larvae. We also built constructs that encode QF2 and LexA-GAD transcription factors in a single vector. Following successful integration of this construct into the fly genome, FLP/FRT recombination is used to isolate fly lines that express only QF2 or LexA-GAD. Finally, using new compatible shRNA vectors, we evaluated both LexA and QF systems for
in vivo
gene knockdown and are generating a library of such RNAi fly lines as a community resource. Together, these LexA and QF system vectors and fly lines will provide a new set of tools for researchers who need to activate or repress two different genes in an orthogonal manner in the same animal.
Analysis and Forecasting of Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Kenya and South Africa using Holt Winter Model
Authors: Njenga John K.
Published: March 2024

In this paper, Holt-Winters exponential smoothing approach is applied to model and forecast monthly CPI in Kenya and South Africa. Monthly data from January 2000 to December 2023 was obtained from Central Bank of Kenya and South Africa department of statistics. Time series decomposition showed that the trend component is the most dominant component in both countries. Kenya Holt-Winters estimated model has parameters 0.6756, 0.0077 and 1 for level smoothing, trend smoothing and seasonal smoothing respectively. On the other hand, South Africa estimated model has parameters 0.8917, 0.1057 and 1 for level smoothing, trend smoothing and seasonal smoothing respectively. The estimated models are efficient and effective as on average the fitted values are less than one percent off the observed values. The initial values for level smoothing, trend smoothing and seasonal smoothing are approximately equal in both countries. The estimated models are then used to predict CPI next twelve months. Over the forecast period, South Africa will experience a lower index as compared to Kenya. In both countries, it’s expected that monthly CPI will rise.
Estimation of Reliability under Conditional Stress - Strength Setup based on Weibull Distribution
Authors: Architha M  , Pandit Parameshwar V
Published: March 2024

The Weibull distribution has been extensively studied and applied across various fields due to its versatility in modeling a wide range of phenomena, especially in reliability engineering, survival analysis, and lifetime modeling. The concept of Rl a,b , which represents a system's reliability in a conditional stress-strength setup, was proposed by Sabre and Khorshidian (2021). In this research, the problem of estimating reliability of the component is considered when strength variable X and stress variable Y follow independent Weibull distributions with common shapes and different scale parameters under conditional stress-strength setup. The maximum likelihood estimator, asymptotic confidence interval, Bootstrap estimators, Boot-p estimators, and Bayes estimator under-squared error loss function with associated highest posterior density interval are constructed for conditional stress-strength reliability. Simulation study is conducted to estimate mean square error (MSE) of estimator of conditional stress-strength reliability. The real data analysis is also carried out.