bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the potential of DL25 Compound as a Novel Anti-Mycobacterial tuberculosis Agent: A comprehensive In Silico and In Vitro Analysis
Authors: Belachew Aweke
Published: September 2024

In current time, due to the rapid proliferation of multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb),scientists are actively seeking new, safe, and effective compound. So, in silico and in vitro drug screening approaches have been more commonly used for discovery and development of lead compound, and have been proven useful for predicting the target, pharmacokinetics, and toxicities of prospective new compounds. In this study, we investigate the potential of the DL25 compound as a novel anti-mycobacterial agent through a comprehensive in silico and in vitro analysis. And also, identified potential target and possible interaction between DL25 compound and target protein. Computational investigation was conducted by using Deep-PK server, SwissADME server, Molecular docking, and Molecular dynamic simulation. According to computational analysis, ADMET result support safety and bioavailability features of DL25 compound for use as promising lead with further optimization. Furthermore, we identified possible potential DL25 compound targets by screening a group of 100 mycobacterial proteins that are essential for the growth and survival of bacteria. Three of the 100 identified target, LysA (Rv1293), LpdA (Rv3303c), and SecA1 (Rv3240), were strongly proposed as optimal DL25 compound-target for M. tb, of which the first showed the highest comparative binding affinity to DL25 compound. This compound showed promising in vitro activity, which was supported by this in silico study.
Radiation risk perception, breast cancer anxiety, and mental distress among women who participated in breast cancer screening programs in Minamisoma City: Five years after Fukushima's 2011 triple disaster
Authors: Takahashi Ryo , Nashimoto Mika , Ozaki Akihiko , Murakami Michio , kaneda Yudai , Yamamoto Chika , Ito Naomi , Saito Hiroaki , Sawano Toyoaki , Hori Arinobu , Yasui Ayu , Gonda Kenji , Wada Masahiro , Tachibana Kazunoshin , Ohtake Tohru , Tsubokura Masaharu , Ohira Hiromichi
Published: September 2024

Objective
This study aimed to examine the extent of mental distress among women undergoing breast cancer screening in areas affected by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster and to clarify the relationships between radiation risk perception, breast cancer anxiety, and mental distress among this population.
Methods
A self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted on 479 women visiting two core hospitals located more than 20 km north of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant for breast cancer screening. The questionnaire comprehensively assessed knowledge about breast cancer, risk perception related to breast cancer and radiation exposure, and mental distress. Descriptive analysis of the obtained variables was performed, and regression models for radiation risk perception, breast cancer anxiety, and mental distress were constructed to explore the relationships between these three main outcomes.
Results
The survey revealed that 47.4% of the women reported moderate mental distress. Participants who believed they had a high probability of developing breast cancer later in life under their current radiation exposure status showed significantly higher odds of experiencing breast cancer anxiety (OR 2.99, 95% CI 1.76-5.08) and mental distress (OR 1.76, 95% CI 1.19-2.59), though breast cancer anxiety itself was not significantly associated with mental distress.
Conclusion
The study found that about half of the surveyed women experienced moderate mental distress five years after the disaster. The results suggest that mental distress is heightened by radiation risk perception and underlying general health concerns, rather than specific factors like breast cancer anxiety.
Enhancing Security in Cloud Native Applications: A Blockchain-Based Approach for Container Image Integrity
Authors: Soni Arpita , Arora Rajeev , Kumar Anoop
Published: September 2024

This study shows the analysis on how important it is to keep data safe, especially in new types of computer programs called "Cloud Native Applications". These apps are made quickly and automatically, but sometimes they are not as safe as they should be. The study looks at using blockchain, a special kind of technology, to make a system that keeps track of problems in these apps. During the research, the study looks closely at how well the blockchain system works. It checks if it can help make cloud native apps safer. The study looks at the main parts of these apps, called "container images" to look for any problems. The research also shows that there are big safety issues, especially with container images that stick around for a long time. This is happening because cloud native apps are made fast, and safety often gets overlooked. The study suggests using blockchain to fix these safety problems. Blockchain can make a list of all the issues with cloud native apps, and it cannot be changed or hidden, this makes it easier for everyone involved to see what's wrong and work together to fix it. We also look at how well the blockchain system works in real situations. By studying the data collected, the study gives useful information to people who want to make their cloud native apps safer.
Minimally Invasive Surgery in Gastrointestinal Disease: A Review of the Role of Robotic and Virtual Reality Technologies
Authors: Hamza Naeem , Ahmed Nuaman , Zainaba Naeema
Published: September 2024

Background: The integration of robotic systems and virtual reality technologies in gastrointestinal surgery has transformed the field, offering improved precision, reduced morbidity, and enhanced patient outcomes. However, several key concerns remain unaddressed, including the high upfront costs and maintenance requirements of these advanced technologies, which may limit their adoption in low-resource settings and exacerbate existing healthcare disparities.
Methods: This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of laparoscopic and robot-assisted surgeries in gastrointestinal surgery, highlighting the benefits and limitations of these advanced technologies.
Results: The review explores the potential future of minimally invasive surgery, including the need for cost-effectiveness analyses, strategies for increasing accessibility in low-resource settings, and targeted training programs to support surgeons in transitioning to these advanced systems.
Conclusions: The review concludes with specific recommendations for clinical practice and further research, emphasizing the importance of a balanced view of the advancements in laparoscopic and robot-assisted surgeries.
Enhancing Lithium Exploration in the Borborema Province, Northeast Brazil: Integrating Airborne Geophysics, Low-Density Geochemistry, and Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Silva Guilherme Ferreira da , Correa Raphael Teixeira , de Almeida Rogério Celestino
Published: September 2024

The increasing demand for lithium, driven by its essential role in renewable energy technologies, implies the development of innovative exploration techniques. This study applies Random Forest regression integrated with low-density geochemistry and airborne gamma-ray data to enhance the resolution and accuracy of lithium concentration maps in soils across the Borborema Province, North-east Brazil. Our methodology not only refines the mapping of lithium distributions but also identifies potential lithium-rich zones within established and underexplored areas. The predictive model successfully delineates regions with high lithium content (up to 70 ppm), aligning these with known geological features and pegmatite occurrences, thereby validating the model's robustness despite some challenges in predicting extreme values. The research highlights the presence of lithium beyond traditional pegmatite deposits, suggesting a broader geological context for lithium mineralization. Our findings encourage strategic targeting of exploration efforts, which can lead to more economical mining practices. This study demonstrates the potential of integrating advanced data analytics with traditional geological methods to improve the efficiency and reach of lithium exploration, supporting the global transition towards renewable energy sources. Future work should enhance model accuracy, especially at extreme concentration levels, and expand the model's application to other regions with similar geological settings.
Study of the prevalence of dental floss use among dental students at Al-Sham Private University
Authors: Najati Ghena , ALTOMA MUSTAFA MOHAMMED TAHA , ZAIFALLAH JONI NASER
Published: September 2024

Background
Dental floss is an important part of oral health care. However, its use among dental students remains unknown precisely.
Objectives
This study aims to assess the prevalence of dental floss use among dental students at Al-Sham Private University, and to identify the factors affecting this use.
Materials and methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of 114 students during the period from January 2024 to July 2024 at Al-Sham Private University, and the random sampling method was used. Data were collected from students between May 2024 and June 2024. The sample size was selected after consulting statistical experts and physicians, headed by Dr. Ghina Najati. In this study, we based on a previous study conducted in 2022 at Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Sindh Institute of Oral Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan, in which the prevalence of dental floss use was approximately 34.35%.
Results
This study showed that among 114 participants, 61 male and female students used dental floss with a prevalence rate of 53.51%, and that there were no statistically significant differences between the participants' average performance on the Dental Floss Use scale attributed to the gender variable. This study also indicated that the use of dental floss according to the academic year variable was in favor of fifth-year students (30.36%), and that the use of dental floss according to the age variable was in favor of students aged over 25 years (36.50%).
Recommendations:
This study provided important insights that will help in developing educational and awareness strategies to promote the use of dental floss among dental students, which will positively reflect on their future practice as dentists and on their patients' health. This study may contribute to improving medical education curricula to promote awareness of the importance of comprehensive oral and dental care.
THE INFLUENCE OF LITERACY MODERATION VARIABLES ON SAVING PREFERENCES IN ISLAMIC BANK (Case Study of Yogyakarta Islamic Bank Customers)
Authors: Kolistiawan Budi , Subagiyo Rokhmat , Shomad VEA Moh. Ali Abdul , Bachtiar Jusuf
Published: September 2024

Abstrak: Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis pengaruh variabel moderasi literasi terhadap preferensi menabung di bank syariah dengan mengembangkan theory of planned behavior. Penelitian ini menggunakan sampel 250 responden masyarakat Yogyakarta. Metodologi menggunakan metode kuantitatif berlandaskan pada filsafat positivism, digunakan untuk membuat generalisasi sampel dari populasi tertentu, pengumpulan data menggunakan instrumen penelitian kuesioner dengan alat ukur skala likert, analisis bersifat kuantitatif untuk menguji hipotesis yang telah ditetapkan. Metode analisis dalam penelitian ini menggunakan Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) yaitu analisa data yang menggambarkan hubungan struktural yang diekspresikan oleh seperangkat persamaan dengan menggunakan software SmartPLS 3.0. Hasil analisis menyatakan bahwa variabel sikap tidak berpengaruh terhadap niat perilaku preferensi menabung di bank syariah. Sedangkan variabel norma subjektif dan kontrol perilaku persepsian berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap variabel niat perilaku preferensi menabung di bank syariah. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian ini juga menyatakan bahwa variabel literasi mampu memoderasi niat terhadap perilaku preferensi menabung di bank syariah.
Kata kunci: TPB, Preferensi, Perilaku, Menabung, Bank Syariah
 
Abstract: The aim of this research is to analyze the influence of the literacy moderating variable on savings preferences in Islamic banks by developing a theory of planned behavior. This research used a sample of 250 respondents from the people of Yogyakarta. The methodology uses quantitative methods based on the philosophy of positivism, used to generalize samples from certain populations, data collection uses questionnaire research instruments with Likert scale measuring instruments, quantitative analysis to test predetermined hypotheses. The analysis method in this research uses Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), namely data analysis that describes structural relationships expressed by a set of equations using SmartPLS 3.0 software. The results of the analysis state that the attitude variable has no effect on the behavioral intention of saving preferences in Islamic banks. Meanwhile, subjective norm variables and perceived behavioral control have a significant positive effect on the behavioral intention variable of saving preferences in Islamic banks. Based on the results of this research, it is also stated that the literacy variable is able to moderate intentions towards saving preference behavior in Islamic banks.
Keywords: TPB, Preferences, Behavior, Savings, Islamic Banking
Assessment of the Hindrance of Private Construction Projects Completion in Tanzania: A Case of Dar Es Salaam
Authors: Iddi Mkwata Asma
Published: September 2024

The study has intended to assess the hindrance for the completion of private construction projects in Tanzania. The study was guided by specific objectives that aimed to establish the extent to which top management support, procurement process and communication determines completion of private construction projects in Tanzania. The quantitative research approach and cross-section research design were employed to collect data from the 5 construction companies implementing the private construction project in Dar es salaam, Tanzania. The relative relevance index (RII) was used to rank several factors in terms of their significance for timely completion of road building projects.The findings shows that, top management support, procurement process and communication found to be major determinant for the timely completion of the private construction project. majority responses stated that good communication and control is major determinant for the top management to support the completion of the private construction project in Tanzania. The study has found that timely availability of project materials has been ranked as the number one procurement process which influences successful completion of private construction projects. Furthermore, the findings rank the communication channel which agreed and accepted by all players influences successful completion private construction projects. The study concluded that, top management-related factors showed a significant impact on the timely completion of private construction projects in Tanzania; the factors thought to be most important for promoting timely completion of private construction projects can improve performance in the private construction sector, reduce time and cost overruns, and raise the caliber of deliverables.
An Analysis of Factors Behind Variations in COVID-19 Infections Between Urban and Rural Areas of Zimbabwe in 2020
Authors: Silwangani Blessing , Munodawafa Davison , Chadambuka Addmore
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine the answers provided by Zimbabwean medical professionals to a questionnaire regarding the variables driving the disparities in COVID-19 infections in Zimbabwe's urban and rural areas in 2020. The objective is to create appropriate, context-specific disease prevention and control plans at the district and provincial levels. A questionnaire survey study design consisting of closed-ended questions was utilized to collect data from medical professionals in Zimbabwe, specifically nurses and doctors, at the district and provincial levels. Microsoft Excel was used to examine the data. The findings show that urban areas had a higher number of COVID-19 cases in 2020 compared to rural ones. According to the results of the survey, a few other important factors that were linked to the urban COVID-19 outbreak were population density, ease of access to ports of entry, and the use of public transportation. A greater number of COVID-19 infections may have been recorded in urban than rural regions as a result of incorrect patient addresses found in a number of COVID-19 infection data. Out of the total of 27 respondents, twenty-one strongly agreed that the COVID-19 outbreak was caused by population density, while the remaining respondents agreed. The opinion that being close to points of entry, including airports and land borders, facilitated the spread of COVID-19 was strongly agreed and agreed upon by 20/27 and 7/27 respondents, respectively. The claim that the method of public transportation contributed to the spread of COVID-19 in metropolitan areas was agreed and strongly agreed upon by 9/27 and 14/27 respondents, respectively. 8/27 respondents strongly agreed that the reason there were more COVID-19 instances in urban provinces than in rural provinces was because there were more entertainment venues or places in urban areas than in rural ones. This viewpoint was agreed upon by 12/27 respondents. The results of the study suggest that the COVID-19 outbreak in Zimbabwe's urban provinces may have been facilitated by factors such as population density, accessibility to ports of entry, use of public transportation, and the availability of more leisure options in urban regions than in rural ones.
Planning, Implementation and Monitoring of a Nationwide Campaign to Deliver Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets in the Gambia
Authors: Njie Ousman B
Published: September 2024

In 2022, The Gambia conducted a nationwide long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) distribution campaign. This article describes the planning, implementation and monitoring of the campaign. The campaign was jointly conducted with Senegal as part of cross border collaboration towards malaria elimination. A cross-sectional descriptive design was used for reporting the campaign. It was a collaborative approach, involving government and non-governmental organizations and communities. The DHIS2 tracker was used for digital data collection with mobile phone devices to register households and issue coupons for one LLIN per two persons as distribution criterion. The campaign was implemented in two phases, household registration and distribution phases. This approach allowed registration and distribution of LLINs at the same time along the borders of the two countries and for continuous improvement of implementation quality. A total of 1,164,552 LLINs were actually distributed between June to July 2022, corresponding to 90% of projected LLIN needs. This result is an indication of a national coverage of 72% of the registered population, lower than the universal campaign coverage of 80%. The joint coordination and planning process among campaign players allowed the national malaria control program (NMCP) and partners to successfully conduct a synchronized campaign with the neighbouring country Senegal. This campaign has increased access to LLINs in households which is likely to result in increased LLIN use with continuous education on the benefits. Consequently, a reduction of the malaria burden in the country, thus contributing to the achievement of the country’s goal of malaria elimination.
Knowledge and Attitude of Final Year Undergraduate Nursing Students about Research at the University of Technology Jamaica
Authors: G. Usman Abubakar , Robinson Britley , Jones Daley Shashoy , Goodlitt Trisha , Anderson-Martinez Kenice , Eccleston Kerenia
Published: September 2024

The importance of research is well acknowledged, nevertheless, students often feel anxious when it comes to research, mostly because of the extensive and conceptual nature of the subject. Research has investigated students' attitudes toward research. Studies have demonstrated that students' perspectives on research can have a substantial influence on their involvement in research endeavors. Some academic fields, such as medical education and pharmacy, have examined the extent of knowledge, attitudes, and practices about research among students. There is a paucity of scholarly studies that specifically examine the attitude of undergraduate nursing students towards research. Therefore, this study examines the knowledge and attitude of final year undergraduate Nursing students about research at the university of Technology Jamaica. The study employed a quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional research design. The target population was 116 final year nursing students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the university. Most students, at 85.4%, encountered challenges in locating research articles; (67.4%) participants considered the interpretation of the literature challenging yet 61.8% maintained a favorable attitude towards research. Chapter two of the research project posed the greatest challenge for the respondents throughout the first half of their research, whereas chapter one was the least challenging. According to the survey, 78% of the students reported encountering greater difficulties than they had anticipated when conducting research.
State of Green Management Practices in Public Sector Institutions in the Bono Region of Ghana
Authors: Adjei Williams-Ohene , Asabi John , Opoku Marfo Emmanuel , Kwakwa Paul , Aaworb-Nang Maabobrkor Jacob
Published: September 2024

This study was conducted to assess the state of green management practices among public sector institutions in Ghana with focus on the Bono region. The descriptive study employed a mixed-method approach to recruit employees of seven public sector institutions in the region for data collection using stratified random sampling method. A five-point Likert scale and a semi-structured interview guide were used to gather quantitative and qualitative data respectively. In all, quantitative data of 228 participants together with qualitative data from 15 respondents were used for the study. The quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 23 software while thematic content technique was used to analyze the qualitative data. The results of the quantitative data showed that majority of the study participants took a neutral stance on all the items used to measure the three main constructs: environmental orientation, environmental strategy and environment development in public sector institutions. On the other hand, the qualitative results indicated description of green management, forms of green management practices and measurement of green management practice as sub-themes of state of green management practice in public sector institutions. In conclusion, the mixed findings of the study have shown low level of awareness on green management practice in public institutions and hence serves as basis for attention to create awareness on the practice in the Bono region and Ghana as a whole.
Investigation into Succession Plan in the Chieftaincy Institution of the Savannah Region of Ghana: A Case Study of Kingship (Overlord) of the Gonja Kingdom
Authors: Kapori Abutu , Gbiel Benarkuu Gabriel , Shanthi N.S.
Published: September 2024

Kingship, a social phenomenon across the globe has been recognized and established in many countries. Kingship is believed to be the genesis of evolution of social leadership in the community, family, clan, and or tribe. In many jurisdictions, it is a preserve for the royal family who hailing from patrifiliation or matrifiliation. In the case of the Gonja Kingdom, the King (Yagbonwura) as he is called succeed the Kingship through patrilineal lines. Unlike the Ashantis in Ghana, succeed the Kingship through the matrilineal lines. In the United Kingdom (UK), Charles III is the King of Great Britain. In Africa, we have Mswati III the Ngwenyama King of Eswatini formally known as Swaziland. This paper focus to ascertain whether or not the Kingship succession of Gonja is conflict free or otherwise. The methodology of the research, applied both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Observation, interviews, focus group discussions were employed in data collection. The research reveals that, Kingship in the Gonja Kingdom is conflict free in Ghana. It is highly revered, upheld and considered one of the sacred institutions. Every King automatically has followers and subjects who serve the Kingship within a defined jurisdiction.
Community Directed Screening to Identify Asymptomatic Malaria Reservoir of Plasmodium Falciparum in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Abdulkareem Shamsudeen , Imam Akeyede
Published: September 2024

Asymptomatic malaria is prevalent in highly endemic areas of Africa, with only a small percentage of individuals exhibiting clinical symptoms. The clinical consequence of asymptomatic malaria is not fully understood. Some researchers believe that asymptomatic parasitaemia is involved in developing partial immunity and may protect against clinical disease from new infections. This study therefore determined the prevalence of asymptomatic reservoir of plasmodium falciparum and the level of knowledge of malaria among the populace in Nasarawa state. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among selected local government areas of the state. The local government areas were observed to have reported the highest positivity rate of malaria between 2017 to 2022. The study was conducted from August 2022 to April 2023. A semi-structured questionnaire was employed to collect socio-demographic data and other associated risk factors by trained health professionals. Body temperature and different clinical manifestations were examined to identify the asymptomatic individuals. This examination was carried out after the selection of individuals from households before mRDT was conducted. Data entry and analysis were carried out using (SPSS, 20). The study indicates that the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria parasitaemia among adults in Nasarawa state is 23.8%. It is evidenced that malaria is endemic in Nasarawa state. This study, therefore, recommends continuous awareness of malaria, control measures, and environmental sanitation to control further transmission of malaria in the state.
Assessment of Infection Prevention and Control Programs in Some Health Facilities in Cameroon using the World Health Organization Assessment Framework
Authors: A Acho , R Toby , T Tandi , K Boris , S Mefoug , C Mapuou , B Tambe
Published: September 2024

Healthcare associated infections (HCAI) remain a global` problem, affecting millions of people worldwide and accounting for prolonged hospitalization and increased financial burden. Establishing infection prevention and control (IPC) programs is effective in reducing the incidence of HCAI, but the status of IPC programs is not well documented in Cameroon. We assessed the core components of IPC programs with a focus on HCAI surveillance in some health facilities using the WHO assessment framework (IPCAF). We carried out a cross-sectional study from October 2019 to January 2021. Health facilities were chosen purposefully. Trained data collectors traveled to health facilities and administered the IPCAF questionnaire to authorities of health facilities. All eight components of an IPC program were assessed. Data collected was analyzed using Statistic Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 27.0) software. Altogether 65 health facilities were assessed, 81.5% of which were public facilities. The median IPCAF score from the health facilities was 275 (Range: 112.5- 595) on a scale of 800, with most (86%) of them having either an inadequate (29%) or a basic (57%) IPC status. None of the health facilities attained the advanced IPC status. HCAI surveillance was the weakest of the eight IPC core components. Most (89.2%) of the health facilities did not include HCAI surveillance in their IPC programs. There is therefore need to strengthen IPC programs in health facilities in Cameroon, with a focus on the surveillance of HCAIs, which was the weakest core component.
Drug Resistance and Mutation Patterns Among Tuberculosis Patients in National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Training Centre Zaria
Authors: Joshua Barde Bitrus , Okopi Joseph , Ahmadu Isiyaku
Published: September 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) has afflicted humans for millennia and continues to pose a significant threat to public health worldwide. The World Health Organization classified TB as one of the top 10 causes of death globally, with approximately 10 million new cases and 1.4 million TB associated deaths in 2019 alone. Tuberculosis has high prevalence rates in certain regions, including Nigeria. Traditional diagnostic methods for TB and drug resistance diagnosis have limitations in accuracy and speed, highlighting the need for continuous studies on advanced molecular techniques. The study assessed the prevalence of tuberculosis and drug resistance among patients attending the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Training Centre (NTBLTC), Saye Zaria using molecular techniques, with the aim of contributing to the improvement of diagnosis, treatment, and control strategies for tuberculosis. The cross-sectional study involved 342 suspected TB patients. Samples collected were analysed by microscopy, GeneXpert MTB/RIF and Line probe Assays. The results of this study showed an overall prevalence rate of 39.5% (p<0.05) of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis determined from GeneXPert MTB/RIF positive confirmed cases. further assay using Line Probe Assay (LPA) revealed an MDR-TB prevalence rate of 18(5.3%). Poly-resistance was also detected in 2 (0.58%). However, no Pre-Extensively Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (Pre-XDR-TB) and Extensively Drug Resistant-Tuberculosis (XDR-TB) were found. The overall results showed a slight but comparable rise in the prevalence of MTB against reviewed studies while the MDR-TB prevalence was lower. The study underscores the need for early diagnosis and treatment of TB to stall the occurrence of MDR-TB and other forms of severe TB infections.
Pattern and Impact of Pesticide Poisoning: A Review of Published Case Reports
Authors: Joseph Otorkpa Oche , Oche Otorkpa Chinenye , Shnada Auta Helen , Anyalewachi Ukah Andy
Published: September 2024

Pesticides are essential in agriculture and public health, but their use is associated with many adverse health outcomes. The objective of the current study was to review published case reports to elucidate the pattern and health impacts of exposure to various pesticide classes, including organochlorines, organophosphates, carbamates, pyrethroids, organosulfur, botanicals, and biopesticides. We conducted a review of case reports focusing on the health effects of pesticide exposure across different chemical classes. Searches were performed in major scientific databases, and relevant articles were selected based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Data extraction and synthesis were carried out to identify common health outcomes associated with each pesticide class. Organochlorines, despite being largely phased out, still pose risks due to their persistence and bioaccumulation, with links to neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. Organophosphates, known for cholinergic overstimulation, can lead to respiratory distress and seizures. Carbamates, affecting cholinesterase activity, may cause respiratory paralysis and coma. Pyrethroids disrupt the nervous system and can induce convulsions and alter consciousness. Organosulfur can induce liver damage and renal dysfunction. Botanical pesticides and biopesticides, while generally considered safer, can also cause severe toxicity, including methemoglobinemia and multiorgan failure, as evidenced by rare cases of poisoning. This review highlights the diverse health impacts of pesticide exposure across different chemical classes. It exposes the need for systematic surveillance, longitudinal studies, and comparative assessments between conventional pesticides and biopesticides. Interdisciplinary collaborations are crucial for comprehensive risk assessment and the development of targeted interventions to mitigate these detrimental effects.
Enhancing Early Infant Diagnosis Services: Healthcare Workers’ Perceptives on Health System Challenges in Zambia"
Authors: Mabenga M Regina , Muyunda M Brian
Published: September 2024

The pediatric HIV burden is significant, with 46% of 1.7 million affected children lacking treatment in 2020 globally. In sub-Saharan Africa, up to 49% of HIV-infected children remain undiagnosed, contributing to high AIDS-related mortality. In Zambia, early infant diagnosis (EID) coverage for HIV exposed infants (HEI) is suboptimal with 71% receiving timely virologic testing, indicating gaps in case identification. We explored healthcare workers' perceptions on EID, appointment systems and associated challenges. The study utilized a phenomenological research design involving 19 healthcare providers from the mother and child health (MCH) department in Kabwe and Chibombo districts of Central Province of Zambia. All Content and thematic analyses were done using NVivo 10 software. Healthcare providers reported using parallel systems such as paper-based registers and an electronic medical records system, SmartCare, while leveraging routine immunization visits to identify and track HEIs’ appointments from birth to 9 months. Health care providers highlighted challenges with paper cohort-based registers leading to incomplete documentation and difficulties in tracking HEIs’ appointments especially after 9 months due to decreased attendance of post-routine immunizations. Parallel data entry in both SmartCare and paper-based registers added more workload, leading to incomplete records, hindering effective appointment tracking due to lack of critical information. Therefore, streamlining data collection processes, removing parallel systems and reducing modules, providing additional training to healthcare workers on electronic management systems may contribute to improved monitoring and tracking of HEI for better outcomes.
Evaluation of the Diagnostic Readiness for Outbreaks of Priority Zoonoses in Cameroon. Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: F. Chi Hanesh , B. Kengne Christophe
Published: September 2024

The emergence and spread of zoonotic diseases pose significant threats to public health, animal health, and global health security. In Cameroon (a country situated at the Central and West Africa intersection and known for its rich biodiversity and close interactions between humans and animals), priority zoonoses represent a major public health concern. This paper examines the diagnostic landscape for priority zoonoses in Cameroon, focusing on the challenges and opportunities for disease detection and control. This study assessed the current state of diagnostic capacity for key zoonotic diseases in the country through a comprehensive review of existing literature, national surveillance data, and expert interviews. The analysis highlights several challenges, including limited laboratory infrastructure, inadequate funding, gaps in surveillance systems, and a lack of trained personnel. However, the study also identified promising opportunities for strengthening the diagnostic landscape such as enhanced collaboration between human and animal health sectors, improved access to diagnostic tools, and increased investment in capacity building. By addressing these challenges and capitalizing on the available opportunities, Cameroon can better prepare for and respond to priority zoonotic disease outbreaks, ultimately safeguarding the health of both humans and animals in the country.
O direito à moradia como direito humano fundamental e sua positivação no direito constitucional brasileiro
Authors: Alves Alceli Ribeiro , De Quadros Doacir Gonçalves
Published: September 2024

Em torno do contexto acelerado, concentrado e desordenado no processo de urbanização brasileira, o presente artigo trata dos desafios da efetivação do direito humano fundamental à moradia a partir de uma análise que possui duplo objetivo. Primeiro, propõe-se a realizar um exame acerca do papel do Estado brasileiro e suas características no tocante a prestação de serviços públicos de interesse geral e de socialização do Estado numa perspectiva que considera a transição ou passagem de um Estado liberal para um Estado social e democrático de Direito e suas implicações no tocante ao direito de propriedade e, sobretudo, ao direito à moradia. Segundo, analisar se, e como, o Estado brasileiro estaria assegurando o direito à moradia a partir do reconhecimento e positivação deste direito no ordenamento constitucional brasileiro. Metodologicamente, o trabalho faz uso da pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Como resultados, os dados analisados sugerem que houve avanços consideráveis no tocante ao reconhecimento e positivação do direito fundamental à moradia no direito constitucional brasileiro, sobretudo amparado nos princípios da dignidade humana e da função social da propriedade, bem como na ratificação de tratados e convenções internacionais. Conclui-se que esses avanços só foram possíveis por meio da promulgação da constituição cidadã de 1988, e posteriores emendas constitucionais e aos disruptivos e inovadores instrumentos de política urbana trazidos no bojo do Estatuto da Cidade. A constituição federal e o Estatuto da cidade se colocam como importantes e efetivas normas jurídicas impostas pelo Estado a fim de efetivar o direito humano fundamental à moradia.
Análise da política pública Minha Casa, Minha Vida como instrumento de acesso a moradia
Authors: De Souza Luciana Cristina , Oliveira Kassia Cristina
Published: September 2024

O artigo analisa o problema da falta de moradia e de acesso à habitação no Brasil por ser essa uma ofensa ao que dispõe o Art. 6º da Constituição Cidadã de 1988. O objetivo foi analisar criticamente o problema em relação ao texto magno, à Agenda 2030 e ao que dispõe o Programa Minha Casa Minha Vida. A partir do método dedutivo, adotou-se por metodologia a revisão documental e doutrinária sobre o conceito de direito à moradia e a Nova Agenda Urbana formulada pela Organização das Nações Unidas. A análise se dividiu em três etapas: quadro conceitual e normativo sobre o direito à moradia; a percepção deste como política pública; e, por fim, estudo de caso sobre o Programa citado. O tema foi correlacionado ao referencial teórico jurídico comunitarista tendo por base o conceito de aporofobia da filósofa Adela Cortina, a noção de desenvolvimento proposta por Amartya Sen e os estudos de Zigmunt Bauman sobre a sociedade contemporânea. Por fim, realizou-se pesquisa explicativa a partir da coleta indireta de dados sobre o desenvolvimento das políticas públicas que atendam a Agenda 2030 quanto à moradia no país, tendo por intuito aplicar esse conteúdo à análise do Programa Minha Casa Minha Vida.
A educação jurídico-popular de mulheres negras e o acesso isonômico a cargos decisórios junto ao poder judiciário brasileiro
Authors: Ugioni Lídia Piúcco , Spengler Fabiana Marion
Published: September 2024

O presente trabalho tem como base dados que apontam a falta de representação de mulheres negras em cargos de docência nos cursos de ensino superior de Direito e Ciências Jurídicas. Portanto, o objetivo geral é analisar os possíveis impactos da educação jurídico-popular, objetivando incentivar a formação de mulheres negras, para o acesso igualitário a cargos decisórios junto ao Poder Judiciário brasileiro. O problema reside na seguinte pergunta: em que medida a falta de uma representação no Poder Judiciário brasileiro e nos cargos de docência jurídica no ensino superior são aportes estimulantes para repensar a educação jurídico-popular objetivando incentivar a formação de mulheres negras, contribuindo para o acesso igualitário a cargos decisórios junto ao judiciário brasileiro? A metodologia conta com o método de abordagem dedutivo e as técnicas de pesquisa utilizadas serão de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Pode ser concluído, de forma antecipada, que a baixa representação feminina na docência no ensino superior, especialmente na graduação de futuras bacharéis em Direito e nos cargos do Poder Judiciário ocorre por falta de estímulo, associado a uma lacuna na educação popular e na formação destas meninas e mulheres negras, para que haja uma nova estruturação do Poder Judiciário pelo acesso à educação.
Microbial fuel-cell technology for the treatment of dairy wastewater and concurrent generation of energy
Authors: Monisha B. , Krishnaswamy Veena Gayathri
Published: September 2024

Water pollution, which appears to be a global concern, is mostly caused by the discharge of several toxic compounds by various industries such as textiles, pulp and paper, and dairy sectors. Dairy wastewaters are difficult to manage because they include a wide range of contaminants. Wastewater treatment is an expensive and energy-intensive method that requires substantial energy to fulfil the energy demands of rising human population. Renewable energy-based wastewater treatment is a feasible option for overcoming these concerns. Microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology has shown promise as a sustainable strategy, combining energy and nutrient recovery to generate bioelectricity. MFCs can be employed in wastewater treatment, green power generation, biohydrogen synthesis, and ecologically friendly sewage treatment processes. This chapter focuses on different types of industrial wastewater and their physical, chemical, and biological treatment methods, as well as MFC technology and its techniques utilized for treating dairy wastewater, providing beneficial knowledge of combining it with currently employed conventional wastewater treatment procedures to achieve the degradation of various dairy contaminants. The chapter also discusses the types, processes, applications, challenges, and future prospects of wastewater treatment-related MFCs, with the goal of industrialization in the near future, leading to greener fuels and a more sustainable environment.
Value-added gaseous fuel recovery from industrial wastewater and sludge using microbial electrochemical technology
Authors: Raval Isha , Patel Upexa , Patel Ekta , Arkatkar Ambika
Published: September 2024

Synthesis of value-added gases using biological systems has been accepted as one of the important scientific endeavors for many decades. The generation of electricity and the production of acetic acid, formic acid, methane, hydrogen, and other value-added products can all be done with the help of recent technological advancements that use wastewater as a raw material. These optimized biosynthesis processes which are environmentally friendly and cost effective can be considered for scale-up level experiments. Microbial electrochemical technology combines microbes, electrochemistry, and material science that can be amalgamated to efficiently convert the chemical energy contained in the organic molecules. The wastewater and sludge effluent from industrial sector can be used as a probable nutrient source for the microbes. Factors such as nutrient availability, toxicity, variation in microbial population, operating parameters, and so on, have great influence on the yield and quality of the gaseous fuel. This chapter summarizes recent updates on microbial electrochemical systems being utilized for gaseous recovery and parameters that influence productivity of gases.
Amalgamation of constructed wetland and microbial fuel cell for cost-effective and low carbon emitting treatment of industrial wastewater
Authors: Dhanda Anil , Tripathi Akash , Raj Rishabh , Ghangrekar M. M.
Published: September 2024

The increasing demand for potable water and the negative impacts of industrial wastewaters on freshwater sources have necessitated the development of new technologies for holistic wastewater treatment. Constructed wetland–microbial fuel cell (CW–MFC) is an innovative and sustainable technology that combines the benefits of both CW and MFC. The wetland component provides conducive habitat for microbial growth, while the fuel cell generates electricity from microbial activity while treating wastewater. The same approach can potentially remove a wide range of recalcitrant pollutants from industrial effluents in addition to organic matter, nitrogen, and phosphorus. This technology consumes less energy, has low operating/maintenance costs and simultaneously produces renewable energy from waste streams, which makes it superior to traditional wastewater treatment technologies. The current chapter explores different types of CW–MFC systems evolved for wastewater application, emphasizing the fundamental principles, design considerations, and operation mechanisms of these systems. Further, the efficacy of CW–MFC for the treatment of a variety of industrial wastewaters, such as dairy, brewery, and pharmaceutical wastewater, is also elucidated. The chapter also highlights the challenges and limitations of the CW–MFC-based technologies and the measures required to improve their performance and scalability aspects.
Application of microbial fuel cell towards bioremediation and clean energy production for industrial wastewater
Authors: Kapoor Riti Thapar , Rafatullah Mohd
Published: September 2024

A huge amount of wastewater released from industries flow into different water resources such as rivers. Industrial effluents can be regarded as an important resource for water, nutrients and energy. Microbial fuel cell (MFC), a green eco-friendly approach can be applied for the treatment of wastewater with electricity generation concomitantly. It is a novel strategy to generate clean, renewable, safe green energy to maintain a clean environment. MFC technology can be used for effluent treatment, biochemical oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand elimination, sulphate and removal of toxic metal and denitrification. MFC has an advantage as compared with other wastewater treatment methods because of certain unique properties such as energy and economic benefits, less effect on the environment and high stability. However, the operation of MFCs also has multiple setbacks such as short life span, high cost, membrane fouling and so on. MFC technology shows a pivotal function in solving problems of energy crisis and waste management. This chapter describes current applications of MFC technology for the treatment of industrial effluents with cost-effective energy generation and covers the gap by highlighting key future research areas to improve its performance.
INOVAÇÃO NO SETOR PÚBLICO
Authors: MEDEIROS MARCOS FERNANDO MACHADO DE , Sousa Kleber Cavalcante de , Paiva Juarez Azevedo de , Brandão Gláucio Bezerra
Published: September 2024

O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar a gestão da inovação em uma organização pública militar brasileira, situada no estado do Rio Grande do Norte. Para tanto, optou-se por abordar, no campo teórico, o contexto da inovação nas organizações públicas e a gestão da inovação no serviço público. O caso de estudo escolhido foi o do Corpo de Bombeiros Militar do RN. Em relação aos procedimentos metodológicos, este estudo se apresenta como uma pesquisa aplicada, exploratória, qualitativa, e se utilizou da pesquisa-ação. Após elaboração de diagnóstico e capacitação da equipe, implementação das novas práticas inovadoras foram gerados 5 projetos inovadores para resolver os problemas e melhorar a gestão da unidade. Por fim, ressalta-se a necessidade de o órgão dar continuidade às ações empreendidas, como forma de implantar efetivamente uma gestão estratégica inovadora.