bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance of core stabilizer muscles in individuals with neck pain and low back pain
Authors:   , Thongpresert Chattrachoo
Published: November 2023

Objectives: The primary objectives of this study were to compare the performance of back stabilizer muscles in individuals with subacute neck pain, chronic neck pain, and asymptomatic conditions as well as to compare the performance of neck stabilizer muscles in individuals with subacute low back pain, chronic low back pain, and asymptomatic conditions. The secondary objectives were to identify the correlations between level of performance of back stabilizer muscles and pain severity and disability of neck pain. Furthermore, the correlations between level of performance of neck stabilizer muscles and pain severity and disability of low back pain were studied. Methods: One hundred and twenty-two participants were recruited. They consisted of five groups with 23 participants in each of the subacute neck pain, chronic neck pain, subacute low back pain, and chronic low back pain groups. The last group consisted of 30 age- and gender-matched control participants. All participants performed two core stabilizer muscle tests: the craniocervical flexion test (CCFT) and the abdominal drawing-in test (ADIT). Results: Significantly lower pressure change values from the ADIT for back stabilizer muscle performance were found in the participants with neck pain when comparing subacute and the chronic pain groups to the control group (p < 0.05). The activation score and performance index from the CCFT for neck stabilizer muscle performance of the participants in the subacute and the chronic low back pain groups were also lower than the control group (p < 0.05). Significant differences in the proportions of the participants whom were classified as normal and abnormal responses on the ADIT and the CCFT among subacute, chronic, and control groups were demonstrated (p < 0.05). The pain severity and disability in one spinal region did not correlate with the level of the performance of core stabilizer muscles in the remote spinal region. Conclusion: Abnormal performance of core stabilizer muscles both in the cervical and the lumbar spines is present both in neck pain and low back pain individuals. Pain severity and disability had no effect on the level of core stabilizer muscle performance.
Effects of aquatic interval training on predicted peak oxygen uptake, lung volumes, body composition and quality of life in obesity
Authors:   , Sukkee Chotirot
Published: November 2023

Objective: To investigate effects of 6-week aquatic interval training on alterations of predicted peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), lung volumes, body composition and quality of life (QOL) in obesity. Methods: 21-sedentary obesity were randomly assigned to a control (5 females and 5 males, age 38.6 ± 9.68 years, BMI 31.77 ± 4.73 kg/m2) and a training group (6 females and 5 males, age 33.73 ± 9.13 years, BMI 30.96 ± 3.47 kg/m2). The training group performed 6-week aquatic interval training at 60-75% of heart rate reserve 3 days/week. The control group received 6-week home program of self-stretching exercise. Predicted VO2peak​, lung volumes, body composition and QOL were measured before and after the training. Results: The trained obesity had significant alterations in predicted VO2peak​ 6.74 ± 5.56% (p = 0.002) , 6-minute walk distance 8.40 ± 6.01% (p = 0.001), force expiratory volume in 1st second 8.92 ± 6.52% (p = 0.036) , peak expiratory flow 42.32 ± 42.27% (p = 0.017), waist circumference -2.35 ± 3.62% (p = 0.028), waist-hip ratio -2.59 ± 2.64% (p = 0.022), %skeletal muscle for legs 1.26 ± 1.72% (p = 0.020)  and arms 1.44 ± 1.91% (p = 0.002), Weight Related Symptom Measure score -66.43 ± 20.71% (p < 0.001), and Obesity and Weight Loss QOL score 19.38 ± 15.15% (p = 0.003) compared to the control group. Conclusion: Six-week aquatic interval training contributes to improve predicted VO2peak, lung volumes, body composition and QOL in obesity. This program would be another modality to apply in obesity for enhancing cardiorespiratory fitness and QOL, and reduction in body composition. Trial registration: TCTR20160818003.
Development of mathematical model representing dynamics of plasma generated from a plasma focus device
Authors:   , Tangjitsomboon Prajya
Published: November 2023

Plasma Focus (PF) device is known to be used as source of radiations and particles. It also has been used for materials surface modification. This research aims to investigate the dynamics of plasma generated by a standard UNU/ICTP PF device. More detailed microscopic modeling of the dynamics is attempted, which is different and can be complimentary to the widely used Lee model code. Lee model is considered to be a macroscopic model as it assumed that plasma behave as a thin solid cylinder that moves by Lorentz force. The Lorentz force is generated by the plasma current and the induced magnetic field from the discharge current where the circuit equation is used to represent the discharge characteristic. In this research, a software package is used to simulate the dynamics of plasma microscopically using finite element method. It considers geometry of PF, material properties, electromagnetic theory, plasma theory and input current characteristic for the finite element calculation. Both simulation results are compared with experimental results, where UNU/ICTP PF is operated with variable pressure of argon gas at 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 mbar. Current factor and mass swept factor used by Lee model are found to be between 0.36-0.67 and 0.024-0.0365 respectively. The finite element simulation gives average current factor of 0.48-0.55. It is found to be varying with time. The finite element simulation also has shown that the density and the temperature of argon gas changes as plasma is moving along the electrodes. However, it has shown that not all argon gas is swept by the plasma which correspond to the assumption of mass swept factor applied in Lee model. In addition, the finite element simulation uses plasma processes to represent the behavior of the plasma generated by PF device microscopically, which allows graphical generation of plasma starting from breakdown phase to axial phase where Lee model cannot show. It has been demonstrated that a microscopic model can generate results and characteristics of plasma that are close to actual experiment. They also agree with the results from the macroscopic model based on Lee model code.
Determination of occupational risk and exposure to pesticide residues on vegetables among greengrocers in fresh market Bangkok Thailand
Authors:   , Ong-artborirak Parichat
Published: November 2023

This mixed methods study aimed at assessing the magnitude of health risk from occupational exposure to pesticide residues (PRs) on vegetables. The study was conducted among 91 greengrocers in Padung Krung Kasem market, Bangkok. Data was collected in dry (April-May) and wet (August-October) seasons, including face-to-face interview, hand wipe sampling, and blood cholinesterase (ChE) level test, and then in-depth interview was conducted. The study revealed that all hand wipe samples contained many kinds of insecticides, including organophosphates, carbamates, and pyrethroids. PRs on hands detected in all samples were chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin. Wilcoxon signed rank test revealed that amount of chlorpyrifos and types of PRs on hands in the wet season significantly decreased when compared to the dry season (p<0.05), while amount of cypermethrin did not significantly differ. In addition, there were statistically significant differences in blood ChE level in both seasons (p<0.001). The most reported symptoms from exposure to PRs were fatigue/tiredness, skin rash/itching, headache, and eye irritation/blurred vision. At 99th percentile values of PR exposure, average daily dose (ADD) was 2.42x10-5 mg/kg/day and hazard index did not exceed acceptable level (HI=0.287). Besides, the significant relationship among practice regarding PR exposure, PRs on hands, ChE level, and health symptoms were found (p<0.05). Occupational exposure to PRs with poor practice may pose health effects. These findings suggest that risk communication among greengrocers should be done with guideline related to pesticide contamination in vegetables, especially proper personal hygiene practice, to prevent them from PR exposure and potential health risks.
The effect of the development of web-based supporting system for military health promotion using participatory approach : a case study of First Infantry Regiment, The King's Own Bodyguard
Authors:   , Wongjinda Thanita
Published: November 2023

Health of military personnel is important not only for individuals' health, but also military stability, and nation security, in turn. The implementation of health promotion (HP) of Royal Thai Army (RTA) personnel facilitated systematically by using information and communication technologies enables outcomes achievement. The main purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of web-based supporting system (WBSS) on HP outcomes both at community and individual levels. This action research using participatory and mixed method approaches was carried out in the setting of First Infantry Regiment, The King’s Own Bodyguard. Preliminary results showed that the majority of Internet users used eHealth and had high level of eHealth literacy. In addition, eHealth literacy was significantly determined by having experience of using eHealth and perceived importance of accessibility to online health information. After its development, WBSS was used by the community to support a health education program, a community initiative run by a youth group, broadcasting through public audio line system. Overall, community participation in HP using WBSS was higher than that in previous actions for health. HP outcomes in terms of usage of eHealth, and eHealth literacy were also increased. Findings from this study reflect the need for WBSS to be used extensively in RTA units in order to promote the health in general, and to scale up eHealth literacy in particular. Further researches to measure how this innovation can be diffused and its long term outcomes are required.
TRANSPORTATION BARRIERS ON HEALTHCARE UTILIZATION AMONG ELDERLY POPULATION LIVING IN MAHASARAKHAM PROVINCE THAILAND
Authors:   , Kullanit Apisit
Published: November 2023

Background: The recent study by Thailand Health Insurance System Research Office (HISRO) in 2009 and 2010 showed that utilization of healthcare services of outpatient care was decreased among elderly. Transportation may be a predominant factor influencing outpatient care utilization especially in rural area where patients must travel long distances to access health care services. Therefore, this study aimed to find an association between the healthcare utilization of elderly and their living in urban/rural area and to access an association between healthcare utilization and transportation barriers and perception among elderly in Mahasarakham province Thailand. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Muang district (urban) and Wapi Pathum district (rural) in Mahasarakham province. Face-to-face interview by health volunteers was utilized to obtain information from 359 elderly using structured questionnaire (179 elderlies in urban area and 180 elderlies in rural area). Briefly, questionnaire was divided into 3 parts; demographic characteristic, transportation barriers and perception of transportation to healthcare services. Bivariate analysis using Chi-square and independent t-test was performed to investigate the association. Results: Majority of respondents in this study was female (59.3%) and had average age (±SD) of 70(±7.1) years old. Sixty-six percent of them reported insufficient monthly income. More than half of them had underlying disease (53.5%) and moderate health status (56.5%). During the past two months, sixty-eight percent of overall elderly (72.6 % of elderly in urban area and 63.3 % of elderly in rural area) reported non-utilize the healthcare service even though they preferred to seek for care. However, statistical significance of an association between urban/rural area and healthcare utilization was not achieved (p-value=0.06). Considering on transportation barriers, this study found that traveling duration and distance from home to healthcare services were significantly influenced on healthcare utilization of elderly in primary and secondary care (p-value<0.05). Elderly out-of-pocket of transportation expenses was significantly associated with utilization of secondary care (provincial hospital) (p-value = 0.02). Their perception on ability to pay for transportation expenses was significant different between elderly who had visited and who had not visited healthcare services (p-value = 0.05). Conclusions: Travel duration and distance from elderly home to healthcare services was associated with healthcare utilization in primary and secondary care. Elderly satisfaction and perception on ability to pay for transportation expense was related to their healthcare utilization. An elderly healthcare utilization promoting strategy should be recognized to enhance elderlies’ health. Further basic insurance; universal healthcare coverage, strategy may consider to partially support transportation expenses for elderly to lessen their ability to pay perception.
Factors Associated with the Functional Drink Consumption of BangkokResidents, Thailand
Authors:   , Sultana Fahmida
Published: November 2023

Functional drink is a prominent product category under the functional food sector. Health benefit belief from functional foods emerges as the strongest positive determinant of willingness to consume functional drink. Most common ingredients in these functional drinks are sugar, fructose and maltitol which are the source of carbohydrate. These ingredients also have some negative effects on human body if consume frequently. Thus the purpose of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the factors associated with the functional drinks consumption behaviour of Bangkok residents, Thailand. The survey was conducted among adult of Thai nationalists for both male and female with age range of 18 to 65 years in metropolitan area of Bangkok. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analyzed by Chi-square test and t-test. It has been observed that majority of the respondents (88.40%) consumed functional drinks at least once in a life. The percentage of consumption of functional drink was higher for female (62.2%) than male (37.8%) among who consumed functional drinks once in a life. As a reason to choose any kind of functional drinks, 46.8% of the respondents mentioned “for better health”. Statistically significant association (p<0.05) was found between ever consumption of functional drinks and health concern level and also between ever consumption of functional drinks and ingredients of drinks. Regarding the motivational factor, ‘Interesting Advertisement’, 62.30% respondents’ of the opinion was for ‘Important’. Consumption of functional drinks was common among majority of the Bangkok residents. Media campaign about the sugary functional drinks would be effective for raising awareness about added sugars in functional drinks, increasing knowledge about health problems associated with excessive sugar consumption.
EFFECT OF SLEEP QUALITY ON BLOOD PRESSURE AND HEART RATE AMONG SHIFT NURSE IN A PUBLIC HOSPITAL BANGKOK THAILAND
Authors:   , Boonyagate Kanokrate
Published: November 2023

Background: A shift work has often associated with poor sleep quality which is a risk factor of cardiovascular disease. This study investigated whether sleep quality is associated with vital signs among shift nurses in a public hospital. Method: A cross-sectional survey of 270 shift nurses in a public hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, was conducted using self-report questionnaire. Sleep quality was measured using The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Daytime sleepiness was accessed by Epworth sleepiness scale. The vital signs; blood pressure and heart rate, was measured form nurses followed by World health organization (WHO) recommended procedure. Chi-square tests and multivariate linear regression models were performed to find significant associations. Results: Among 270 shift nurses, 100 (37%) of them were classified as poor sleep quality (PSQI > 10). Almost a half of them had excessive daytime sleepiness. The results indicated that sleep quality was not associated with systolic blood pressure (p=0.87), diastolic blood pressure (p=0.17), heart rate (p=0.58). After adjustment for age, gender, BMI, exercise, caffeine consumption and alcohol consumption, an increased one score of PSQI was tented to increased 0.33 mmHg of systolic blood pressure ( Beta = 0.33, p-value = 0.30). However, statistical significant was not achieved. Conclusions: Around forty percent of shift nurses reported poor sleep quality and half of them had excessive daytime sleepiness. There was no association between sleep quality and daytime sleepiness and vital signs. An appropriate intervention strategy to improve sleep quality among shift nurses are needed in public hospitals.
Knowledge, attitude, practice regarding to malaria and home environment prevention among population in Palaw Township, Tanintharyi Region, Myanmar
Authors:   , Linn Khaing
Published: November 2023

Abstract Malaria infection is of national concern in Myanmar because it is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Objectives of current study were 1) to identify level of knowledge, attitude and practice regarding to malaria and home environment prevention and 2) to access those associations. A cross-sectional survey method was conducted during June-July,2016 among population in Palaw Township, Tanintharyi Region of Myanmar. Four hundred and thirty subjects aged between 18-64 were participated in this study. A structure questionnaire was used to gather the data through face-to-face interview. Chi-square and Fisher’s exact test were used to determine the association between the variables. The results showed that 50.7%of respondents had good knowledge, 16.3% had good attitude while only 6.5% had good practice regarding malaria prevention. Moreover, we found that there was significant association between age group (p<0.001), education level (p<0.001), occupation (p<0.001), monthly family income (p=0.003) and duration of stay (p=0.002) and practice on malaria and home environmental prevention. Association between knowledge about malaria and practices on malaria (p<0.001) was statistically associated. Participants’ attitude towards malaria was associated with practices on malaria and home environment prevention (p<0.001). As a result of this study, health education program with direct interaction to community should be emphasized to increase participants’ knowledge, attitude and practice about housing condition and housing structure for malaria prevention.
FACTORS AFFECTING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE OF PRIMARY SCHOOL (PRATHOMSUKSA 3) STUDENTS IN MEUNG DISTRICT NONTHABURI PROVINCE THAILAND
Authors:   , Thewaaksorn Phattraporn
Published: November 2023

In 2016 average of EQ level was about 45.12 (standard level of EQ was changed from 140 to 50). So the EQ problem of students in primary school has been increased dramatically. Not only that. A Cross-sectional study was carried from June- July 2017. The objectives of the study were 1) to study EQ level, 2) to assess factors and 3) to identify association of all factors that affecting to EQ level. The study had sample of 410 participants. Descriptive Statistics as well as Fisher’s Exact test, p-value 0.05 or 95% were used to explain relationship and significant difference between the variables. More than 78% were female, the most of students were age 9 years old. More than 350 students (85.4%) had GPA between 3.51 - 4.00. The majority of time spending with child per day on Monday – Friday and Saturday – Sunday were the same, there were 4 and more than 4 hours, it were 258 students (62.7%) and 268 students (65.4%) respectively. About the activity with your child when have leisure time the highest score they did entertain such as watch TV/listen to the radio were the same, too. The Democratic type of parenting was the highest score 358 families (87.3%). The school environment were good 342 students (83.4%). The total EQ level was the same direction, the most students had EQ with normal level 389 students (94.9%), too. For the association there were statistically significant difference between Socio-demographic factors, Time spending, Type of parents and EQ level (p<0.05). But there was no statistically significant difference between School environment and EQ level (p>0.05).
Assessment of knowledge and perception of adverse health effects associated with self prevention from air pollution in Traffic Policemen Bangkok Thailand
Authors:   , Wannalai Sasiwimol
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to examine the association between knowledge and perception of adverse health effects associated with self-prevention from air pollution in traffic policemen in Bangkok, Thailand. This study was a cross sectional study which was selected by random sampling and self- administrated questionnaires from 223 participants. The data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics and using the Chi-square test and Fisher Exact Test. The result indicates that the respondents were 100% male and 45.7% aged between 41-50 years, 44.4% in Bachelor’s degree and found that 72.2% of respondents had not received information, and 74.4 % had not been trained. Most of the respondents had knowledge at moderate level 48.4 %. A minority of respondents had the perception of adverse health effects at poor level 2.7 % and had self-prevention behavior from air pollution at poor level 3.1 %. Furthermore, the knowledge was associated with socio-demographics characteristics in terms of education level, frequency of exercise, having chronic disease, information about air pollution and health effect and Training on prevention of air pollution at p-value as 0.011, 0.001, 0.028, 0.011 and 0.005, respectively. Knowledge of respondents were associated with perception of adverse health effects on health (p-value <0.001) and also associated with self-prevention behavior from air pollution (p-value <0.001). Last, the perception of adverse health effects was associated with self-prevention behavior from air pollution (p-value <0.043). This study recommended that government agencies and related organizations should provide traffic policemen with proactive programs in terms of knowledge about air pollution prevention behaviors and enhance health effect perceptions from air pollution in order to have more appropriate prevention behaviors.
Knowledge belief and practice of menstrual hygiene management among in-school adolescents in Katsina State Nigeria
Authors:   , Okafor Stella
Published: November 2023

In Nigeria menstruation tends to be an unmentionable topic of discuss, bounded by silence in the name of culture and blanketed in myths and misconceptions; yet, menstruation and menstrual hygiene are emerging as critical issues for gender equality and inclusion, human rights and development. In Nigeria, few studies on MHM had existed, and it is still inadequate thus this research to assess the Knowledge, beliefs and practice of MHM among in-school adolescents in Katsina state, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted among in-school adolescents menstruating girls between the ages of 10 to 19 years in four government Girls Junior secondary/technical schools or college in Katsina. Self-administered questionnaire on menstruation and menstrual hygiene practice was used to elicit responses from volunteered participants. Analysis of the variables was done using Univariate and bivariate analysis at 95% confidence level. Among the 395 respondents, 50.4% of the menstruating girls were at the modal age of 12-15. More than 59.7% do not know: the cause of menses, channel through which menses flows, intervals between menses while 157 (39.7%) of the respondents have basic knowledge on menses thus the association of knowledge and practice was found at P=0.026. Consequently 68.6% agree that there exist some cultural/religious beliefs and myths regarding menses in their various localities and as much as 77.4% agree that there are restrictions This study has been able to establish that there is a relationship or association between respondents’ level of knowledge, belief, and enabling factors with the level of menstrual hygiene practice. It as well identified those enabling factors which when adequately provided will reduce the difficulties adolescent girls face while managing their monthly period. It has also brought out the urgent need for intensified sensitization of traditional/religious leaders and advocacy to government for inclusion issues around menstruation management in media programmes and addressing the various societal myths, misconceptions and false beliefs which negatively affects menstrual hygiene management.
THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN THE PERCEPTION TOWARD AGE-FRIENDLY CITY FEATURES AND MENTAL HEALTH STATUS OF THE ELDERLY IN PHOTARAM DISTRICT RATCHABURI PROVINCE THAILAND
Authors:   , Assawamaitree Supattra
Published: November 2023

Since the elderly population statistics is on a continuingly increasing trend, the World Health Organization has proposed the concept of the age-friendly city in 2007 as a response to the aging society with an aim for healthy life among the elderly. This study was a cross-sectional research design with the goal to learn about the association between demographic characteristics and the perception toward the age-friendly city with the mental health status of the elderly in Photaram District, Ratchaburi province, Thailand. The respondents were 432 elderly both male and female with an age between 60-79 years. Data collection tool was a face-to-face interview questionnaire. The interview questions were divided into three parts: demographic characteristics, the perception toward the age-friendly city, and the mental health status of the elderly. For the data analysis, descriptive statistics was used and inferential statistics of the Chi-square for testing of the association was also employed. The results indicated that the level of the perception toward the age-friendly city was on the moderate level in all components, which was also true for the mental health status. As for the association, it was found that the level of education, income, and chronic disease, were associated with the mental health status of the elderly with statistical significance (p < 0.05). The perception toward the age-friendly city in all components was associated with the mental health status of the elderly with statistical significance (p < 0.05) also: outdoor space and building (p=0.014), transportation (p=0.05), housing (p=0.012), social participation (p=0.008), respect and social inclusion (p=0.008), civil participation and employment (p= 0.030), communication and information (p=0.002), as well as community support and health service (p=0.015). This study result could help in planning for the development of Photaram District, Ratchaburi province, Thailand, to become an age-friendly city in the future.
Factors associated with intention to leave of nurses in Rajavithi Hospital Bangkok Thailand
Authors:   , Homsuwan Wannakorn
Published: November 2023

A shortage of nurses, high turnover rates and poor retention rate are the concerns for healthcare organizations in Thailand. Rates of intention to leave of nurses vary from 23.7 to 58.3%. There are no adequate solutions for this situation. Therefore, retaining nurses is an urgent issue. Job satisfaction and organizational commitment are the factors associated with the intention to leave. However, this has not been taken seriously in Rajavithi Hospital (RJH). This study aims to determine the factors associated with intention to leave of nurses in RJH. A cross-sectional study was conducted from April-May 2016. Nurses who had worked at RJH for at least 1 year were recruited and completed a self-administered questionnaire. The questionnaire consisted of 4 parts: demographic factors, job satisfaction, organizational commitment, and intention to leave. From 392 questionnaires distributed, 390 (99.49%) were returned. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression were used to assess the factors associated with intention to leave. Overall, 28.2% of nurses intended to leave. Four factors were associated with intention to leave: age (OR = 0.96; 95%CI: 0.93-0.98), work department (OR = 0.52; 95%CI: 0.31-0.88), job satisfaction (OR = 0.14; 95%CI: 0.05-0.37), and organizational commitment (OR = 0.36; 95%CI: 0.17-0.79). Nurses’ intention to leave at RJH was low. Age, work department, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment were associated with intention to leave. Admiration when they achieve their work and promotion of nurses to participate in hospital operation will increase level of job satisfaction and organizational commitment among them.
THE ASSOCIATION OF SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS AND ORAL HEALTH SERVICE UTILIZATION AMONG THAI OVER TIME
Authors:   , Jaichuen Wararat
Published: November 2023

Background: This study aimed to explore associations among sociodemographic characteristics and oral health service utilization (DU for dental utilization) among Thai over time. The outcome will be helpful for the next projection of the oral health workforce, and also for designing an oral health service system that is appropriate for the population in the future. Method: Retrospective data analysis, study of cohort behavior regarding oral health service utilization. Micro data from a series of the Health and Welfare Surveys (HWS) of Thailand were used. Descriptive analysis and binary logistic regression were used for exploring the outcome, applying three matrices of Age-Period-Cohort analysis for alternative perspectives on time. Sociodemographic characteristics of population were divided into predisposing – individual factors, predisposing – family factors, and enable factors. Three different compositions of those factors were used for exploring appropriate models for predicting dental health care demand. Result: All independent variables had significant association to DU. By the way, education of individual and role in family showed remarkably change of associations to DU over time. A large difference among age groups were seen from larger gaps of DU after controlled for all independent variables. In model which controlled only predisposing – individual factor, gender showed more remarkably impact to DU than other variables. While after controlled for both predisposing – individual factor and family factor, education of individual showed remarkably impact to DU instead. Then, after controlled for all three factors, variable which showed remarkably impact to DU was shifted to region of residence, and predicted power of this model was also the highest. Anyway, in all models, education of family head showed impact to DU independently from all other control variables. In term of predicted power of model, there were not much difference among all three models and also base model. Conclusion: Information on gender, education of individual, education of family head, region of residence, and health insurance were recommended to include in forecasting of demand for dental health care. All models included this set of variables were more appropriate for forecasting dental care demand than considering only differences among age group. These sets of variable will help to clarify existing inequality.
Los desafíos y fronteras de la inteligencia artificial en la acción humanitaria
Authors: Jiménez Quiñones Lorena
Published: November 2023

Este artículo examina el uso de la inteligencia artificial (IA), big data y minería de datos en la acción humanitaria desde una perspectiva crítica y decolonial. En el contexto global contemporáneo, en donde los conflictos armados no internacionales han sobrepasado a los internacionales, y en donde las crisis humanitarias están interconectadas con el desplazamiento forzado y la degradación ambiental, es necesario complejizar la legitimidad y efectividad de la IA bajo estándares normativos del derecho internacional de los derechos humanos y del derecho internacional humanitario. A lo largo del artículo se señalan distintos desafíos éticos y operativos de la IA, dentro de los que destacan los siguientes: el monopolio del Norte Global en el desarrollo y uso de avances tecnológicos, la adaptabilidad socio-cultural de la IA y los posibles riesgos asociados a sus pretensiones de infalibilidad.
Implementasi Pembelajaran Keberagamaan Dalam Membina Toleransi Beragama Di Pondok Pesantren
Authors: Arifin Zainal
Published: November 2023

Adapun tujuan dari artikel ini adalah bagaimana perilaku keberagamaan remaja suatu lembaga pendidikan, dan bagaimana upaya pondok pesantren dalam meningkatkan perilaku keberagaman berbasis multikultular. Adapun hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa: Petama, Perilaku Keberagamaan Remaja. Bahwa pada dimensi keyakinan, remaja desa mengimani (mempercayai) agama Islam sebagai agama yang diridhoi oleh Allah S.W.T, namun belum bisa mengamalkan secara istiqomah apa yang mereka imani. Kedua, Upaya Pondok Pesantren dalam Meningkatkan Perilaku Keberagamaan Remaja. Dalam meningkatkan perilaku beragama remaja desa, pengurus pondok pesantren mengunakan tiga upaya yakni, dengan pendekatan pengertian, pembiaasaan dan model. Ketiga, Faktor Penghambat dalam Peningkatan Perilaku Keagamaan. Ada tiga faktor yang menghambat upaya pondok pesantren dalam meningkatkan perilaku beragama remaja desa, psikis remaja Desa, kurangnya dorongan orang tua, dan kurangnya perhatian dari perangkat desa.
Analytical method for nonlinear memristive systems
Authors:   Politehnica University Timișoara, MARINCA Bogdan , MARINCA Vasile ,   Politehnica University Timișoara / Center for Advanced and Fundamental Technical Research, Romanian Academy, Timişoara Branch, Bd. M. Viteazul Nr. 24, 300223, Timişoara România
Published: November 2023

This work is devoted to providing an approximate analytical method to analyze memristor devices. One of basic property of the memristor is pinched hysteresis, considered to be a signature of the existence of memristance. The presence of hysteresis defines the material implementation of its memristive effects. This it its fundamental property, which looks more like a nonlinear anomaly. The memristor technology offers lower heat generation as it utilizes less energy. Optimal auxiliary functions method (OAFM) is implemented to find an approximate solution for the state variable in memristor with a very high accuracy. The presence of the auxiliary functions and some optimal convergence-control parameters Ci assure a fast convergence of the solutions.
Dual-kernel echo state network for nonlinear time series prediction
Authors:   Sichuan Normal University, College of Mathematical Science, Chengdu, 610066, China, TANG Guoxin , YU Lang ,   Chongqing University, College of Mathematics and Statistics, Chongqing, 401331, China, LV Wangyong ,   Sichuan Normal University, College of Mathematical Science, Chengdu, 610066, China, SUN Yuhuai ,   Sichuan Normal University, College of Mathematical Science, Chengdu, 610066, China
Published: November 2023

An echo state network (ESN) is a recurrent neural network (RNN) often applied to nonlinear time series prediction. The traditional ESN randomly generates the weights of the input layer and the reservoir layer and does not change these weights, and generally only learns the weights of the output layer through linear regression, so the training speed is very fast. In this work, we propose a novel kernel echo state network (KESN). In KESN, the random weights of the input layer are removed and a series of gaussian kernels are used to replace the neurons in the input layer. Similar to radial basis function (RBF) neural networks, KESN can use the k-means algorithm to generate the kernel center and estimate the bandwidth of the kernel function. We prove that a KESN has echo state property, which is an important factor of KESN that can normally work. Furthermore, kernel ridge regression (KRR) is used to learn the weights of the output layer instead of a simple linear model. Finally, to obtain the optimal parameters of the model, the tree-structured parzen estimator approach (TPE) is used to optimize the hyperparameters of the model. In a time series prediction experiment, it is proved that KESN is more stable and performs better than the echo state network which randomly generates weights and trains output weights using linear models. We found that the reservoir layer weights are equivalent to a dropout operation, and the KESN is inherently equivalent to a regularized neural network. We call the KRR-based KESN dual-kernel echo state network (DKESN).
Analysis of variation of serum CEA, SCC, CYFRA21-1 in patients with lung cancer and their diagnostic value with EBUS-TBNA
Authors: Du Yanjia , Wen Ya , Huang Jieyu
Published: November 2023

Background: To explore the variation of serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), cytokeratin 19 fragment (CYFRA21-1), and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) antigen in patients with lung cancer (LC) and their diagnostic value with endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA). Methods: This study examined the diagnostic value of serum tumor marker testing and EBUS-TBNA joint detection for LC in 150 patients with suspected LC. Results: Compared to benign patients, the serum levels of CYFRA21-1, SCC, and CEA in LC were higher (P<0.05). In patients with squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC), small cell lung cancer (SCLC), and lung adenocarcinoma, lung adenocarcinoma had higher serum CEA levels (P<0.05). In comparison, LSCC patients had higher serum SCC and CYFRA21-1 levels (P<0.05). As compared to each index detected alone, the AUC of combined detection of each index to diagnose LC and identify pathological types of LC was elevated. Conclusions: The clinical significance of serum CYFRA21-1, SCC, and CEA conjugated with EBUS-TBNA is demonstrated for diagnostic purposes and identification of LC pathological types.
Traditional use of common centaury (Centaurium erythraea) in the Pirot District
Authors: Nikolić Biljana , Marković Marija , Pljevljakušić Dejan , Rakonjac Ljubinko , Stankov-Jovanović Vesna
Published: November 2023

This study provides valuable evidence on traditional knowledge about the medicinal purposes of common centaury - Centaurium erythraea in the Pirot District (Southeastern Serbia). Based on surveys among the rural population in four municipalities, the above-ground parts of C. erythraea were usually used internally: for stomach, appetite, improving the immune system, diabetes, stomach troubles and diseases, burns, wounds, high temperature, for sedation, as aphrodisiac, cough, for digestion; and externally: against burns, wounds, and rheumatic pain. Common centaury was rarely used internally against gastric bacteria, blood purification, bronchitis, cancerous diseases, cleansing the body, cold, disease prevention, high blood pressure, jaundice, liver diseases, and urinary tract inflammation; and externally against chest pain, hemorrhoids, and for sunbathing. The uses against gastric bacteria, bronchitis, cancerous diseases, cough, jaundice, liver disease, urinary tract inflammation, as well as the externally uses for sunbathing, chest pain, hemorrhoids, burns and wounds were the new uses, mentioned by respondents in this study, which were not previously recorded in neighboring regions in the Balkan Peninsula.
Threatened identity and challenges of the national revival of the Serbs in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia
Authors: Marković Saša
Published: November 2023

The Yugoslav experience of the Serbian national idea in the mid-1930s was seriously undermined. The assassination of King Aleksandar Karađorđević was an event that, after the rebellious response of loyalty, irreversibly initiated the search for the revival of the national idea and its racing modern European models. Since the international geopolitical situation witnessed the process of the failure of the Peace Treaty of Versailles, new national positioning occupied the attention of the Serbian intellectual elite. This paper presents the development of the ideas of national revival through combining formerly valid standpoints which, on the one hand, encourage the development of the collectivist type of society and, on the other hand, the redefinition of the individual approach in the existing standpoint about democracy. Their contradicting views affected pluralism, but there was also a threat of exclusive reflexions being transformed into antagonism.
The Austro-Marxist and the Bolshevik attitude toward the national question
Authors: Mandić Stefan
Published: November 2023

The main goal of this paper is to examine the attitude of Austro-Marxists and the Bolsheviks toward the national question, these being two important currents of Marxism in the early 20th century, Marx and Engels believed that the main historical actor was the economic class and that with the development of means of production, and the emergence of communism, nations would eventually wither away. Many of the most prominent Marxists of the second generation were more inclined to this position. On the other hand, Austro-Marxists and the Bolsheviks were the first Marxist currents to develop a somewhat comprehensive theory of the nation, due to practical-political needs. The former ones were interested in preserving the Austro-Hungarian Empire as a multiethnic state, while the latter aimed to exploit national tensions as one of the instruments for revolutionary seizure of power in Russia
A valuable contribution to the history of sociology in Yugoslavia - Zinaida T. Golenkova: A Contribution to the History of Yugoslav Sociology, Library of the Sociological Review + Serbian Sociological Society, Belgrade, 2022, 245 pages, (translated by Suzana Stojković)
Authors: Mitrović Ljubiša
Published: November 2023

The paper is a review of the scientific contribution of Russian sociologist, Professor Zinaida T. Golenkova, PhD, particularly in the field of research of Yugoslav (and Serbian) sociology in the period of its socialist development, as well as Golenkova's personal engagement in the cooperation between (Soviet) Russian and (Yugoslav) Serbian sociologists in the period from the 1960s to date. Having in mind the wealth of history of Serbian and Yugoslav sociology, to the research of which Golenkova largely contributed, the paper pleads for the development of a special academic, sociological discipline that would deal with the development of sociology in Serbia.
Age structure of the population of Serbia: What changes were recorded in the censuses in 2002, 2011 and 2022?
Authors: Stojilković-Gnjatović Jelena
Published: November 2023

The aim of the paper is to depict the broader picture of the level of age structure transformation in Serbia, based on the data of the last three censuses (2002, 2011 and 2022). The historical conditioning of the age (pre)composition is explored through the basic determinants of the age structure. In order to monitor the advanced process of demographic ageing, age structure indicators have been calculated, and temporal and spatial comparisons were made. In a comparative manner, the population of Serbia is also put into relation to other European countries, using the methodology of demographic age stages. A more detailed analysis at the municipality level showed that 88.7% of the municipalities were in the demographic deepest old age. Thus, the classification was extended by adding demographic extremely deep old age that is characteristic of 39.2% municipalities in Serbia.
Employee satisfaction as a key factor for their retention: A case study of Serbian hospitality and tourism employees
Authors: Janković Ivana , Ćirić Miloš , Stamenković Igor
Published: November 2023

Professional satisfaction of employees is certainly one of the factors towards the success of catering and tourism companies. The aim of this paper is to determine level of job satisfaction and see the key reasons for termination of employment in the hospitality and tourism sector. The methodology used in this paper is based on a questionnaire. The target group for this research are employees in the hospitality and tourism sector of the Republic of Serbia. 136 respondents participated in the research, the results are presented using descriptive statistics. The obtained results show that the positive aspects of work are monetary stimulation, while the negative aspects are generally insufficient funds for work. As for the reasons for leaving the organization, the focus is mainly on employee dissatisfaction with the salary or some health problem.
The influence of satisfaction on loyalty and customer relationship quality on satisfaction and destination image: Chabahar port tourists, Iran
Authors: Javan Amani , Akbari Hamid
Published: November 2023

Tourism has experienced a continuous growth in recent decades. Modern tourism has become a driving force for regional development and has included an increasing number of new tourist destinations. The present article seeks to investigate the effect of tourism experience on loyalty with respect to the mediating role of satisfaction, quality of customer relationship and image of destination. This is an applied survey research and descriptive in terms of methodology. The statistical population includes individuals who have traveled at least three times for the purpose of tourism inside and outside the country during the year and since the number of these people were high; the convenience sampling was used to collect the data. After distributing 384 questionnaires among the statistical population, 373 questionnaires were collected, and the obtained data were analyzed. Results of the analyses of the data using Structural Equation Modeling and Partial Least Squares method suggested significant and positive effect of experience on satisfaction, loyalty on destination, loyalty on ecotourism and image of destination. Furthermore, results suggested a significant and positive effect of destination image on destination loyalty, loyalty to ecotourism and satisfaction, satisfaction on customer relationship quality, loyalty to destination and to ecotourism, while the effect of satisfaction on loyalty to ecotourism was not confirmed.
Students' perception and awareness of the significance of consumer food and health claims on food labels
Authors: Bajkanović Jovana , Vujasinović Vesna , Macura Ana , Lakić Nemanja , Nikolić Kosta
Published: November 2023

Food manufacturers communicate with their consumers via food labels, information, and advertisement. Therefore, manufacturers are obliged to pay great attention to these elements. When it comes to information , emphasis is placed on the composition of the product, quantity, shelf life, product origin and characteristics , identity and property. Through a survey conducted among students, the paper aims to assess the level of familiarity among younger demographic with nutritional and health information on food labels and explore their perspectives on these declarations. The study involved the active participation of 262 students. The role of the label on the consumer food product is to convey information about the given product. Using various domestic and foreign literary sources, a questionnaire has been created and survey research was conducted. The obtained results were statistically processed, using descriptive statistics. The goal of the paper is to show the degree of awareness among students regarding the importance of the directives defined by the Regulation on Food labeling, marking, and advertising along with the Regulations pertaining to nutrition and health claims featured on food labels. The initial hypothesis of the research was that the respondents (students) were familiar with the nutrition and health claims on the food label. Based on the entire research and the obtained results, the initial hypothesis was not confirmed.