bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low levels of hypertension screening in HIV care clinics in rural Uganda: A mixed methods study
Authors: Atukunda Mucunguzi , Charlebois Edwin D. , Twinamatsiko Brian , Byamukama Ambrose , Mutabazi Andrew , Akatukwasa Cecilia , Ayebare Michael , Tindimwebwa Winston , Asiimwe Alan , Lavoy Geoff , Arinitwe Elizabeth , Nangendo Joan , Tumusiime Justus , Balzer Laura B. , Okello Emmy , Mutungi Gerald , Grosskurth Heiner , Kamya Moses , Kabami Jane
Published: September 2024

Background The prevalence of hypertension among people living with HIV (PLHIV) has increased over the last decade globally. Given the dual burden of disease and significant prior investment in HIV care, integrating care for hypertension and HIV is recommended. However, data on hypertension screening, treatment, and control before such integration are lacking. Using a mixed-methods approach, we assessed the baseline status of hypertension screening, treatment, and control in 52 Ugandan public health facilities, participating in an ongoing cluster randomised trial of an integrated HIV/HTN care model. Methods From November 2020 to March 2021, we reviewed patient records and randomly sampled 50 PLHIV without a documented hypertension diagnosis per health facility and all PLHIV with a documented hypertension diagnosis per health facility. We surveyed the sampled participants, measured their blood pressure, and described the hypertension care cascade. We also conducted in-depth interviews with 24 patients and 12 providers to explore their experience with hypertension screening and care. We used an in-depth thematic approach to analyze the resulting qualitative data. Results Among 2,645 PLHIV, <1% (20/2,645) had their BP measured within 6 months before the survey. The prevalence of hypertension was 13.6% (359/2,645), including 278 (10.5%) new diagnoses and 32 (1.2%) prior diagnoses that were not documented in their health record. Of 49 with a previously documented hypertension diagnosis, 31 (63.3%) were on hypertension treatment, and 53.1% had controlled hypertension. In-depth interviews with providers and patients revealed a lack of blood pressure equipment, high patient load, limited technical hypertension knowledge, and patients' fear of anticipated long waiting times as reasons for low hypertension screening in the HIV clinics. Conclusion Regular screening for the detection of hypertension patients was hardly performed. There is an urgent need for interventions to advance the integration of hypertension care in HIV clinics.
Unlocking the forest: An ethnographic evaluation of Forest Schools on developmental outcomes for 3-year-olds unaccustomed to woodland spaces
Authors: Cronin de Chavez Anna , Seims Amanda L. , Dickerson Josie , Dharni Nimarta , McEachan Rosemary R. C.
Published: September 2024

Background and purpose Early years experiences shape a child’s physical, cognitive and emotional development. Spending time in greenspaces offers benefits for children’s development, but access and use can be limited in urban settings. There is increasing interest in the health and developmental benefits of Forest Schools for primary-aged children, but little is known about the benefits for pre-school children. This study aims to identify these and explore the processes and activities associated with a Forest School intervention for early years children that may influence outcomes. Methods This paper reports on an ethnographic approach involving 65 hours of observations with two cohorts of 10 3-year-olds attending 11 weekly Forest School sessions in an urban setting. The children attending had little or no previous experience of natural spaces. 14 in-depth interviews were conducted with parents, and nursery and Forest School staff. The data were analysed using thematic analysis, and outcomes were identified using the Early Years Foundation Stage Statutory Framework. Results Despite logistical challenges, the intervention benefitted age-specific health and development outcomes, particularly personal, socio- and emotional development, verbal communication, and mathematics. Unexpected benefits were observed among nursery staff and parents attending Forest School. Conclusion Forest Schools are a promising and feasible method to improve nature connectedness and development in children aged 3 years and support school readiness. The maintenance and protection of urban woodland spaces are paramount to facilitate this.
Can endurance athletes benefit from vegetarian diets?
Authors: Dmowska Klementyna , Kaczanowska Justyna , Żurowska Emilia
Published: September 2024

The performance of an athlete is the result of a complex interplay of various factors, with diet representing a particularly crucial component. Nutritional profiles of vegetarian diets vary considerably from those of omnivorous diets. In our research, we propose that vegetarian diets may offer advantageous properties for endurance sportsmen. This review examines the distinctions between vegetarian and omnivorous diets and addresses these differences in the context of the nutritional requirements of athletes. The initial focus is on fundamental nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Subsequently, the emphasis shifts to micronutrients. This analysis also encompasses the challenges and advantages associated with vegetarian diets. The subsequent section concerns the cardiovascular system, which is arguably the most crucial for endurance athletes. It examines the interaction between the cardiovascular system and other physiological factors, including dyslipidaemia, blood pressure and body weight. It also considers the impact of dietary modifications on these parameters and their influence on athletic performance. Finally, the recent research on the effects of a vegetarian diet on the performance of endurance athletes is presented. Despite a lack of conclusive evidence, recent research suggests that vegetarian diets may confer certain benefits, particularly in terms of endurance training. Although there is a paucity of rigorous research in this field, the existing evidence suggests that these dietary regimens may result in overall enhanced health and improved outcomes.
The shared journey of induced lactation: A case study
Authors: Cleaver De
Published: September 2024

Background: Induced lactation or adoptive breastfeeding is a little-spoken-of event and can be life-changing for participants. While not common, it is nonetheless within our realm of practice as midwives and, therefore, important that we understand how our role can support whānau who make this choice. Aim: The aim of this case study is to share a narrative of induced lactation and adoptive breastfeeding from the midwifery and whānau perspectives. The multilayers of midwifery care evident in this case study and breastfeeding success will be discussed, with the hope that this can also support midwives who are caring for LGBTQIA+ whānau who are inducing lactation. Method: This is an anonymised, “instrumental” case study that offers a first-person practitioner narrative and reflection of a single case, representative of a phenomenon that most midwifery tauira (see glossary) and early-career midwives may not readily observe first-hand. Discussion: Three important outcomes are noted. First, the intrapersonal and psychosocial factors that are part of the narrative were incorporated in a care plan providing holistic assessment and clinical decisions, acknowledging the gift of breastfeeding that carried a much larger significance than purely a nutritional choice. Second, collegial relationships support an inclusive experience for all involved. Third, re-telling, reflecting on and analysing the various elements in Anna’s story offer an educational example for in-depth learning and understanding. Conclusion: The professional responsibility of the midwife was a part of the process, and integral to Anna’s positive experience of induced lactation.
Flotar en el espacio acústico.
Authors: Millán Campuzano Marco Antonio
Published: September 2024

Son dos partes las que componen este artículo. En la primera, se intenta situar algunos pasajes significativos en la obra de Heidegger, para establecer algunas coordenadas con relación a pensar la existencia y la facticidad no de cara al Tiempo, sino al Espacio. Ser y Espacio. Un interlocutor clave será Peter Sloterdijk. También lo será en la segunda parte, cuando, estableciendo un andamio desde la parte precedente, escudriñemos lo que significa la escucha de aquel que flota en el espacio acústico. Todo Dasein flota en el espacio acústico.
Wyniki ankiety przeprowadzonej wśród uczniów szkół średnich województwa małopolskiego
Authors: Banaś Monika , Kaczmarczyk Wiktoria , Żarnowski Sebastian
Published: September 2024

The chapter provides basic conclusions with recommendations, regarding the electoral awareness of young people, on how this awareness can and should be strengthened, contributing to greater participation of young voters in shaping community governance.
VULNERABILIDADE AOS DESASTRES AMBIENTAIS NO ESTADO DA PARAÍBA
Authors: Olímpio João Luís Sampaio , Cunico Camila , Lucena Daisy Beserra
Published: September 2024

No Brasil, o estado da Paraíba se destaca pelo quantitativo de desastres associadas aos eventos de secas e inundações. Neste sentido, a compreensão da vulnerabilidade social é decisiva para as medidas de redução de riscos porque é uma estimativa da capacidade dos grupos populacionais de resistir e de se adaptar a esses eventos intensos. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi determinar os níveis de vulnerabilidade social aos desastres de seca/estiagem e de inundação dos municípios do estado da Paraíba, a partir de indicadores socioeconômicos, demográficos e de infraestruturas. As variáveis selecionadas foram ponderadas e integradas em um índice de vulnerabilidade social. Em seguida, foi realizada uma análise de autocorrelação espacial. Também foram quantificadas as frequências de desastres das tipologias pesquisadas. Os resultados indicam que 82,5% dos municípios estão nas classes alta e muita alta de vulnerabilidade, onde residem 45% da população. A principal agregação espacial de municípios com condições severas está entre as Regiões Pluviométrica Homogêneas do Cariri/Curimataú, Agreste e Brejo. Os resultados obtidos podem contribuir com as ações de redução de riscos de desastres porque indica os municípios mais propensos às crises.
DUALIDADE DO GÁS NATURAL EM SANTA CATARINA:
Authors: Estrella Leonardo Mosimann , Rocha Isa de Oliveira
Published: September 2024

O artigo analisa a articulação do gás natural com a formação urbana-industrial de Santa Catarina e com o processo de desenvolvimento regional dessa unidade subnacional. O pensamento de Armen Mamigonian suporta o estudo que adota como metodologia a pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, com abordagem empírica sobre a temática energia com enfoque no gás natural. Como resultado, destaca-se que a presente situação do insumo gás natural no estado sulino é resultante do seu consumo no setor fabril termointensivo, consequentemente tornando-se em mais um instrumento que fortalece a concentração produtiva na Fachada Atlântica catarinense. Com isso, o gás natural apresenta característica dual e contraditória, pois sua oferta contribui com o processo de desenvolvimento socioeconômico. No entanto, simultaneamente, reforça a desigualdade regional em virtude de sua não disponibilidade em outras regiões do estado.
ESCALAS GEOGRÁFICAS E ORGANIZAÇÃO DO CAPITAL NA PRODUÇÃO DE GASODUTOS DE TRANSPORTE DO BRASIL
Authors: De Aguiar e Souza Leandro
Published: September 2024

A presente discussão tem como objeto a geografia de infraestruturas de transporte de gás canalizado do Brasil, em debates suportados pelos conceitos de capital fixo e capital circulante, espacialmente articulados pela categoria de desenvolvimento geográfico desigual. A heterogeneidade do território em estudo torna tais discussões aplicáveis à rede brasileira de gasodutos, cujas análises foram pautadas na apreensão dos traçados existentes e planejados. Foi então buscado o entendimento de disputas e conflitos, geralmente relacionados às lógicas de investimento e à busca pelo controle público ou privado das principais operações. Considera-se que a rede atualmente em operação encontra-se em estágio parcialmente consolidado, dada a cobertura incompleta do território e às articulações ainda esparsas. Estruturada de modo a direcionar ofertas para as principais demandas, os gasodutos de transporte brasileiros contribuem de forma limitada para o estabelecimento de ciclos produtivos em áreas carentes de infraestruturas. Considerando-se as concentrações e desigualdades constituintes do espaço social brasileiro, entende-se que a lógica vigente tende a intensificar tais processos, ao invés de corrigi-los ou minimizá-los.
De maquinarias propietarias en la mercantilización del valor
Authors: Voltaire Alvarado Peterson  , Daniel Sandoval-Nazal
Published: September 2024

El problema de la propiedad engloba una serie de relaciones materiales y sensibles expresadas en los productos espaciales. Su organización en el espacio dibuja el hábitat cotidiano de las ciudades identificando al menos dos regímenes de tenencia, estratificados entre quienes la detentan con legitimidad en los títulos de dominio y quienes esperan acceder a ella a partir de la localización fundada en tomas de terreno.
Situaciones como esta no están consideradas en el plan de trabajo clásico del marxismo; sin embargo, han sido implementados en diversos frentes de investigación contemporáneos coadyuvados con aportes e interpretaciones desde Walter Benjamin y otras visiones frente a la propiedad, la naturaleza y el entorno. Desde el marxismo, estas cuestiones son examinadas en el caso de Machalí, comuna emplazada en la zona central de Chile, donde el desarrollo de la propiedad se erige en tanto respuesta material a las transformaciones económicas y de clase. Se examinan elementos teóricos basados en evidencia con la finalidad de evaluar las capacidades representacionales del marxismo ortodoxo y la visión de Benjamin, más situada en el dinamismo cultural en las relaciones entre subjetividades y sujetos presentes en la actualidad propietaria.
Providing trauma-informed care in the acute care setting
Authors: Pink Donna M
Published: September 2024

Events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine have increased people's awareness of mental health issues. Psychological trauma impacts patients in the acute care setting through physical and mental health presentations. Trauma is a public health issue crossing all socioeconomic groups and is related to social determinants of health. Trauma-informed care (TIC) is an evidence-based approach to providing care. TIC is within the scope of nursing practice and improves outcomes for patients. However, there is a lack of standard terms or practices within healthcare. Additionally, there is superficial acknowledgment of the need for TIC at the local or national level regarding policy. Nurses need to adopt TIC into practice and advocate for policy change to improve the health and lives of those seeking care.
Comparative Predictive Modeling for PICC Line Complications in Oncology: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhang Feifei , Ye Guanjun , Chen Ping , Gui Zongying
Published: September 2024

Aims/Background Peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) are increasingly used in cancer treatment, offering significant therapeutic benefits while also posing risks for complications such as infection, thrombosis, and catheter migration. Effective prediction and management of these complications are crucial to optimizing patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

Methods This retrospective study analyzed PICC line insertion in 266 cancer patients implemented from January 2019 to December 2023 at a regional healthcare facility in China. Using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) logistic regression, we identified key factors influencing PICC line complications and developed a tailored nomogram for individual risk assessment. The efficacy of the model was compared with support vector machine (SVM), random forest, and gradient boosting machine (GBM) using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and decision curve analysis (DCA) metrics.

Results Factors such as body mass index (BMI), diabetic status, and age were found to be significant predictors of PICC line complications. The LASSO model demonstrated superior predictive capability (area under the curve, AUC = 0.79) over SVM (AUC = 0.40), random forest (AUC = 0.70), and GBM (AUC = 0.64). A tailored nomogram was developed for clinical use, enabling personalized risk evaluation.

Conclusion The study underscores the utility of LASSO logistic regression in the personalized risk evaluation of PICC line complications, recommending its integration into clinical practice. The tailored nomogram provides a practical tool for clinicians to enhance care customization for patients requiring PICC lines, thereby improving treatment outcomes and patient safety.
Expressing Ideas: AI-Integrated Paraphrasing to Students’ Writing Skills
Authors: Malon Jake C. , Virtudazo Jay-an , Vallente Wenjan , Ayop Lourdes , Malon Ma. Faith O.
Published: September 2024

The main thrust of the study was to explore the third-year English student’s sentiments on the application of the artificial intelligence (AI)-integrated paraphrasing tools. Specifically, it aimed to investigate the benefits and drawbacks brought by AI paraphrasing tools towards the writing skills of the students. The investigation utilized a semi-structured interviews with an open-ended questionnaire using an audio-video recorder. The data gathered were interpreted using the Thematic Analysis of Braun and Clarke. The study was carried out at one of the campuses of a state university located at Candijay, Bohol, Philippines. Using the Purposive sampling technique, twelve (12) respondents provided information on the research endeavor. The findings revealed that students had a positive opinion of AI-integrated paraphrase tools: they saw them as helpful resources that significantly improve their academic writing process; it includes plagiarism reduction, efficiency, and timesaving, and aids in rephrasing text. The findings also revealed the risks and issues of using AI-integrated paraphrasing tools, such as Prone to plagiarism, automated suggestions dependency, and loss of original meaning and context. With that, the students showed how they deal with those risks and issues, including as responsible users and thorough editing and reviewing. In accordance with the study, students are encouraged not to rely excessively on AI-integrated paraphrase tools, even though they can improve their writing abilities. This research emphasizes that students play a pivotal role in ensuring the appropriateness of texts generated by AI-integrated paraphrasing tools by mastering the art of proper paraphrasing.
The intersection of power: law enforcement, political authorities and protest policing in Italy
Authors: Tuzza Simone
Published: September 2024

This article challenges the notion of police neutrality and independence by highlighting the inherent politicisation within the policing apparatus. It explores the complex relationship between the police and political authorities in managing crowds and maintaining public order. Drawing on criminological and sociological perspectives, the study adopts a critical approach to analyse the operational decisions made by the police and their interactions with political authorities. This interaction significantly influences the operational strategies employed during the management of public demonstrations. The dynamic emphasises how a segment of the police force in Italy is tasked with ‘political policing’, serving as a link between government authorities and field agents. Ultimately, this work aims to fill a gap in the literature by demonstrating the ongoing politicisation of the police mandate in Italy, particularly in the context of public order management.
Cultivating trans-disciplinarity: transcending and transgressing research methods
Authors: Lawrence Roderick J.
Published: September 2024

Transdisciplinarity is creative human agency including cognitive, intellectual and behavioural activities of individuals and groups. These activities define and are mutually defined by beliefs and ideas, knowledge and know-how, language and meanings, norms and rules, and opinions and values. The cultivation of transdisciplinary projects should embrace these cultural, social and psychological predispositions because they are core constituents of a trans-anthropo-logic. This requires transcending common research methods used in scientific studies and using scaffolding that facilitates agency, and positioning individuals and groups. However, scientists are rarely trained to pilot projects involving multiple stakeholders with different positions. This article explains why trained facilitators are needed to pilot transdisciplinary projects. They can cultivate transcendence and transgression – both analysed by the late Julie Thompson Klein – beyond the scope and purpose of common research methods. In essence, transdisciplinary practices respect different ontologies and epistemologies while incorporating ethical principles and moral values. The cultivation of transdisciplinary projects should accommodate and reduce asymmetries of power between politicians, public administrators, property owners, researchers and laypeople that are shaped by extant historical and societal variables in specific situations. Transdisciplinary projects should also apply multiple sources of quantitative data and qualitative information that represent the complexity, diversity and perhaps incommensurability of intentions, meanings, perceptions and values about specific subjects or situations. This is being achieved by innovative projects that should become beacons for change.
Identification of welding defects by combining magnetic-optical imaging and infrared imaging
Authors: Yang Haojun , Gao Xiangdong , He Jinpeng , Ti Yuanyuan , Zhang Yanxi , Gao Pengyu
Published: September 2024

Focusing on spot welding defects, a method for identifying welding defects by combining magneto-optical imaging (MOI) and infrared imaging (IRI) is investigated based on the thermoelectric effect and the Faraday magneto-optical (MO) rotation effect. A detection platform is constructed to collect magneto-optical and infrared (IR) images of defect-free samples as well as common and more severe defects such as cracks, pits, and incomplete fusion. The method of enhancing MO and IR images is employed by utilizing fast non-local means filtering, image normalization, and image sharpening techniques. Adaptive pixel weighted fusion is applied to combine the MO and IR images, yielding fused images. Subsequently, basic probability assignments for each class and uncertainties for each modality are obtained through the linked Dirichlet distribution. Finally, Dempster’s combination rule is employed for decision fusion, enabling the classification and identification of welding defects. Experimental results show that the proposed method effectively exploits the advantages of MOI and IRI, thereby improving the accuracy of welding defect identification.
Using spatial frequency domain imaging to monitor a skin biopsy wound: a pilot study
Authors: Zhang Lai , Bounds Alistair , Girkin John
Published: September 2024

Surgical wound infection is a global postoperative issue adding a significant clinical burden and increasing healthcare costs. Early detection and subsequent diagnosis of infection is vital for accurate, early, and effective treatments. In this paper, we report a pilot study exploring spatial frequency domain imaging (SFDI) to monitor, in-vivo, a biopsy wound in human skin. The reduced scattering coefficient, μ
s
′, absorption coefficient, μ
a
and the oxygen saturation, StO2, were measured using a SFDI system at 617 and 850 nm. We found the μ
s
′ was better capable of monitoring structural changes, possible pus within the wound, re-epithelialization, and collagen fiber remodeling, than with the eye alone. The μ
a
map is capable of revealing the total hemoglobin distribution in the wound area but was limited in some regions due to the scab covering. This case study indicates SFDI’s potential for monitoring and quantifying the process of surgical wound healing and infection.
Image response-assisted volumetric reconstruction for simultaneous multi-color light-field microscopy
Authors: Yang Yuqi , Xing Yue , Jin Xin
Published: September 2024

Light-field microscopy enables real-time volumetric imaging, offering substantial advantages for real-time fluorescence imaging. However, when applied to multi-color imaging, positional cross-talk between different fluorescent signals in the object space reduces reconstruction accuracy. Additionally, imaging each color through sequential excitation of fluorophores significantly compromises imaging speed. In this paper, an image response-assisted volumetric reconstruction method that unmixes multi-color fluorescence light-field images using pixel support derived from the light-field imaging response is proposed. This approach enables simultaneous multi-color imaging with significantly improved volumetric reconstruction accuracy. The correctness and effectiveness of the proposed method are validated through both simulations and experiments. The root-mean-square-error of multi-color volumetric reconstruction is reduced by 37.87 % on average compared with the simultaneous multi-color reconstruction methods obtained by simply combining single-pixel spectrum conversion methods and linear unmixing method in rapid-moving micro-particle observation, showcasing high accuracy simultaneous multi-color imaging performance. Volumetric imaging of motor neurons and whole-body cells of live dual-color zebrafish larvae at 20 Hz demonstrates the ability to be applied to real biomedical imaging.
Social support receipt as a predictor of mortality: A cohort study in rural South Africa
Authors: Kapaon David , Riumallo-Herl Carlos , Jennings Elyse , Abrahams-Gessel Shafika , Makofane Keletso , Kabudula Chodziwadziwa Whiteson , Harling Guy
Published: September 2024

The mechanisms connecting various types of social support to mortality have been well-studied in high-income countries. However, less is known about how these relationships function in different socioeconomic contexts. We examined how four domains of social support—emotional, physical, financial, and informational—impact mortality within a sample of older adults living in a rural and resource-constrained setting. Using baseline survey and longitudinal mortality data from HAALSI, we assessed how social support affects mortality in a cohort of 5059 individuals aged 40 years or older in rural Mpumalanga, South Africa. Social support was captured as the self-reported frequency with which close social contacts offered emotional, physical, financial, and informational support to respondents, standardized across the sample to increase interpretability. We used Cox proportional hazard models to evaluate how each support type affected mortality controlling for potential confounders, and assessed potential effect-modification by age and sex. Each of the four support domains had small positive associations with mortality, ranging from a hazard ratio per standard deviation of support of 1.04 [95% CI: 0.95,1.13] for financial support to 1.09 [95% CI: 0.99,1.18] for informational support. Associations were often stronger for females and younger individuals. We find baseline social support to be positively associated with mortality in rural South Africa. Possible explanations include that insufficient social support is not a strong driver of mortality risk in this setting, or that social support does not reach some necessary threshold to buffer against mortality. Additionally, it is possible that the social support measure did not capture more relevant aspects of support, or that our social support measures captured prior morbidity that attracted support before the study began. We highlight approaches to evaluate some of these hypotheses in future research.
Artificial intelligence in human resource development: An umbrella review protocol
Authors: Yoo Sangok , Nimon Kim , Patole Sanket Ramchandra
Published: September 2024

The recent surge in artificial intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed work dynamics, particularly in human resource development (HRD) and related domains. Scholars, recognizing the significant potential of AI in HRD functions and processes, have contributed to the growing body of literature reviews on AI in HRD and related domains. Despite the valuable insights provided by these individual reviews, the challenge of collectively interpreting them within the HRD domain remains unresolved. This protocol outlines the methodology for an umbrella review aiming to systematically synthesize existing reviews on AI in HRD. The review seeks to address key research questions regarding AI’s contributions to HRD functions and processes, as well as the opportunities and threats associated with its implementation by employing a technology-aided systematic approach. The coding framework will be used to synthesize the contents of the selected systematic reviews such as their search strategies, data synthesis approaches, and HRD-related findings. The results of this umbrella review are expected to provide insights for HRD scholars and practitioners, promoting continuous improvement in AI-driven HRD initiatives. This protocol is preregistered on the Open Science Framework (https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/Z8NM6) on May 27, 2024.
Exploring pharmacists’ attitude, willingness and barriers to provide extended community pharmacy services: Implications for improved pharmacy services
Authors: Jarab Anan S. , Al-Qerem Walid , Alzoubi Karem H. , Almomani Nadeen , Abu Heshmeh Shrouq , Mukattash Tareq , Alhamarneh Yazid N.
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate pharmacists’ attitude and willingness to provide extended community pharmacy services (ECPS), the barriers to ECPS, and the factors associated with attitude and willingness to implement ECPS.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a validated, self-administered questionnaire was distributed online to community pharmacists across the United Arab Emirates between September and November 2023. In addition to sociodemographic data, the questionnaire evaluated attitudes toward ECPS, willingness to provide ECPS, and barriers to its implementation. Binary logistic regression was conducted to explore the factors associated with attitude and willingness to implement ECPS.

Results

The study included 409 pharmacists. Over half of the participants reported below the median attitude (58.7%) and willingness (59.4%) scores. Female pharmacists had a lower attitude towards ECPS (OR = 0.425, 95%CI: 0.242–0.747). Higher number of daily prescriptions (OR = 1.066, 95%CI: 1.029–1.105) and being a Pharm D graduate (OR = 2.664, 95%CI: 1.439–4.932) were associated with higher willingness to provide ECPS, while an increased number of employed pharmacists (OR = 0.518, 95%CI: 0.397–0.676) was associated with a lower willingness (OR = 0.049, 95%CI: 0.004–0.660). Patients’ preoccupation (76.5%), lack of specific training (76.3%), lack of clinical problem-solving skills (74.6%) and lack of a private consultation room (74.6%) were the most commonly reported barriers to ECPS.

Conclusions

Community pharmacists demonstrated unsatisfactory levels of attitude and willingness towards ECPS provision. Therefore, providing training and education programs that enhance pharmacists’ perception and willingness to implement ECPS and emphasize improving clinical problem-solving skills, as well as setting up specific private consultation rooms, is deemed necessary. Female pharmacy graduates, pharmacists dispensing fewer daily prescriptions, and those working with a higher number of employed pharmacists should be specifically targeted when implementing these strategies.
African American Masculinities in Ann Petry's Works
Authors: Abdullah Hogar Najm
Published: September 2024

The book demonstrates an important addition to the currently developing criticism on Ann Petry’s works by enriching the interpretation of her oeuvre through a complex, intersectional reading, contributing to the global reception of this American author. With his interpretation, Hogar Najm Abdullah has successfully shown that through a black woman author’s perspective, Petry’s African American male characters can escape essentialist categorization(s) and build fluid identities; what is more, through an intersectional reading the characters also display a considerable potential in raising awareness about the pitfalls of categorical thinking. Petry’s legacy, as the author proved with his original contribution, lies thus in the progressive aesthetics represented by the ingenious identity-capacity of her complex black male characters, a strategy with which Petry successfully transgresses the confinement of the protest genre category.
Assessment of Transit Accessibility from Sheltered TARC Stops: A Spatial Investigation of TARC Bus Services and their Reachability to Essential Service Nodes
Authors: Adeleye Joy , Oladele Mojeed , Mahmuda Mohammed
Published: September 2024

Cities are hubs for a plethora of social and economic activities within the urbanscape, with their services becoming more intricate as they grow. Transportation plays a critical role in ensuring connectivity and easy accessibility between origins and destinations in cities. Consequently, the study investigated the accessibility of TARC (Transit Authority of River City) buses from sheltered TARC stops in Louisville Metropolis to essential urban service nodes, specifically healthcare and educational facilities. In the study, two geospatial methods of analysis were used; buffers analysis set at distances corresponding to walking distances of ¼, ½, ¾, and 1 mile respectively. Secondly, the near analysis for comprehensive point-to-point, point-to-line, and point-to-polygon measurement. Results revealed that educational facilities, although clustered in the northern part of the metropolis generally lacked accessibility within a ¼ mile (5-minute walking distance) from sheltered TARC stops, while some are reachable within a 15-minute walk. Schools in the eastern part of the metropolis were bereft of TARC services, reflecting the area's car-oriented nature and complete reliance on school buses. Healthcare facilities, despite being densely clustered, required longer walks of around 1 mile (20 minutes) from sheltered TARC stops, particularly in dispersed western and eastern locations. These findings underscore the expediency of equitable, and integrative public transit facility planning that promotes a sustainable transit-oriented system, that can better serve the metropolis.
TELEMEDICINE TECHNOLOGY DEPLOYMENT FOR EMERGENCY AND DISASTER RESPONSE – A CASE IN SUDAN: PROBLEMS AND OUTLOOK
Authors: OKOH Dr Jocelyn Cletus , KOSHECHKIN Prof. Konstantine , OKOH Linda Ngunengen
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Telemedicine, the remote delivery of healthcare services using telecommunications technology, has emerged as a critical tool in emergency and disaster response. This paper explores the deployment of telemedicine technology in such scenarios, highlighting its potential benefits and addressing the challenges it faces. Drawing on review of existing literature, case studies, and expert opinions, this paper identifies key problems hindering the effective implementation of telemedicine in emergency and disaster response, and the technologies in use on the field. Additionally, it discusses potential solutions and outlines an outlook for the future of telemedicine in mitigating the impact of emergencies and disasters on public health. It is evident that the power of telemedicine can be harnessed to manage the effect of disasters and emergencies on safety and the health of the public. Governments and stakeholders should brace up and take advantage of the available technologies.

Keyword: Telemedicine, healthcare, technology, emergency, disaster, public health.
Adult Hepatoblastoma and Concomitant Hepatitis B Infection
Authors: Nieto Dominguez Alejandro , Eichinger Sarah Elizabeth , Matrova Elza , Almoghrabi Anas
Published: September 2024

We report a case of hepatoblastoma in a 26-year-old man with a background of type 2 diabetes mellitus and untreated hepatitis B, initially presenting with hematemesis and a recent diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma on computed tomography scan from a different hospital and recent referral to hospice. On presentation to our hospital, given atypical presentation for hepatocellular carcinoma, histological examination was made, revealing hepatoblastoma. Treatment included chemotherapy and management of hepatitis B, although complicated by chemotherapy-induced cytopenias and tumor progression, ultimately losing the patient to follow-up after 2 years.
Origin of the Campinaranas and Ecological Resilience Patterns: Analysis in Silves-Amazonas-Brazil
Authors: Reis Eusébio Joaquim Marques dos , Vieira Antonio Fábio Sabbá Guimarães
Published: September 2024

The research addresses the origin of the Campinaranas and the primary characteristics of this Amazonian landscape. The results presented herein are part of a doctoral thesis entitled: The Relationship between the Campinaranas Forests and the Ecological Resilience Process (Amazon, Brazil). The Campinaranas are atypical landscapes in the Amazon, dispersed in the Dense Ombrophilous Forest. They have sandy soils and small-scale vegetation. Various methodological procedures were used to evidence the Campinaranas' origin, based on field research, in which five sample collection points were selected in the Sanabani river basin in Silves, Amazonas -Brazil. These samples enabled an understanding of the main particularities of the Campinaranas (soil, vegetation, and human interventions) through soil analysis (soil chemistry and physics), comparative analysis, a vegetation inventory, and classification of the environment. The main objectives were: 1) To quantify the soil and vegetation variables of the Campinaranas in the study area; 2) To identify the fundamental interventions in the Campinaranas areas and the origin of this environmental system. The results demonstrate that the Campinaranas are diverse environments resulting from the forest's ecological resilience after an intervention event. The analyses verify that environmental changes modify the soil granulometry and, consequently, the entire ensuing structure.
La cuestión sexual en las cárceles y la circulación de saberes: Argentina, Brasil, Perú, 1934-1947
Authors: Olaeta Hernan , Nuñez Jorge
Published: September 2024

Desde inicios del siglo XX, el derecho a tener visitas íntimas por parte de las personas privadas de libertad tuvo avances muy dispares en el ámbito internacional, destacándose experiencias puntuales pero escasas reformas de fondo. En este marco, Argentina no fue la excepción. En los años 1930, la referencia al problema sexual en la prisión fue teniendo interés en ámbitos académicos, pero no logró impactar en las prácticas penitenciarias ni en el plano normativo hasta la llegada del peronismo. En 1947, bajo la gestión de Roberto Pettinato -Director General de Institutos Penales- se reglamentó el derecho a las visitas íntimas por parte de los internos casados de las cárceles federales. Esta innovación se dio en el marco de un proceso de notables mejoras tanto para los internos como para el personal penitenciario. 
Pettinato conoció de primera mano, leyó y fue influenciado a la hora de implementar las visitas íntimas por las obras de dos destacados penitenciaristas: el brasileño José Gabriel de Lemos Brito y el peruano Julio Altmann Smythe. En viajes de estudio trabó relación con ambos y al regresar a la Argentina rápidamente abordó la cuestión sexual en los establecimientos e implementó las visitas íntimas en las cárceles federales.
Los vecinos y la policía
Authors: Lorenc Valcarce Federico
Published: September 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es determinar de qué manera los ciudadanos evalúan a la institución policial, y en particular el desempeño funcional y la actividad concreta de los agentes policiales, en el marco de sus experiencias cotidianas. Para ello nos apoyamos en los resultados de dos encuestas que realizamos en barrios populares de Mar del Plata durante 2021, y de medio centenar de entrevistas con pobladores de estos mismos  barrios, que fueron interrogados sobre distintos aspectos de la situación de seguridad y la relación con la policía en su experiencia cotidiana. En consonancia con los resultados de investigación sobre América Latina, se observa que existen niveles relativamente altos de desaprobación del servicio policial. Esto va de la mano con un moderado sentimiento de desprotección. Paralelamente, existe una alta demanda de presencia policial, y de una actuación policial que se ajuste a las expectativas de la población. Pero como ni esta demanda ni estas expectativas son satisfechas, tienen a producirse juicios negativos sobre la institución y sus agentes. Esto no es incompatible con la idea de que la policía tiene limitaciones culturales, legales, presupuestarias y políticas para actuar como debería.
Estructura productiva e innovación manufacturera: análisis a nivel sectorial y regional
Authors: Perez Santiago Agustín
Published: September 2024

El objetivo del presente artículo es desarrollar un análisis sobre la estructura sectorial y regional del VAB (Valor Agregado Bruto) en conjunto con variables de innovación empresarial manufacturera nacional. Bajo una metodología cuantitativa–descriptiva y análisis estadísticos multivariados, se analizaron los datos del indicador obtenidos a partir de la Comisión Económica para América Latina y el Ministerio de Economía de Argentina y la Encuesta Nacional de Dinámica del Empleo y la Innovación. Se resalta la preponderancia de la región centro del país, que explica más del 80 % del VAB y variables de innovación. Las regiones Patagónica y Cuyo tienen el mayor VAB per cápita. Todas las regiones muestran crecimiento positivo. Química y petroquímica lideran el índice VAB– empresas innovadoras, mientras otras industrias tienen el menor índice. Los índices de concentración se presentan altos a nivel regional y variados a nivel sectorial. Se proponen conglomerados regionales, destacando la diferenciación de CABA, GBA y la región Pampeana del resto de las regiones, así como la importancia de sectores como alimentos, bebidas y tabaco y otras industrias diversificadas.
Novel adaptation of a running suture technique in a mouse model of corneal transplantation
Authors: Nakagawa Hayate , Blanco Tomas , Kahale Francesca , Bir Singh Rohan , H. Dohlman Thomas , Dana Reza
Published: September 2024

Several murine models of corneal transplantation have been developed over the years to study the immunopathological processes that lead to the failure of grafted corneas. In all of them, the classic eight interrupted sutures technique is utilized for transplanting the donor cornea on the host bed. However, in clinical practice, a single continuous suture with a single knot is generally performed for corneal transplantation. Here, we describe the adaptation of the single continuous suture technique in a mouse model of corneal transplantation.
Synthesis and properties of catalytic chemisorbents based on titanium oxide
Authors:   Ivanovo State University of Chemical Technology (ISUCT), Ivanovo, Russia, Salnikova N. , Smirnov E. , Prozorov D. , Afineevskiy A. , Smirnov D. , Nikitin K.
Published: September 2024

In this work, we studied the synthesis and properties of catalytic chemisorbents based on titanium dioxide with additions of ZnO and γ-Al2O3. The goal was to obtain chemisorbents with desired performance characteristics and evaluate their potential in destructive hydrogenation of organo-sulfur compounds. Their sulfur capacity and hydrogenating capacity were measured by the static method with carbon disulfide absorption. Textural and morphological characteristics were deter-mined with the use of X-ray phase analysis, low-temperature nitrogen adsorption/desorption, and scanning electron microscopy. It was also found that addition of alumina did not give additional reflections on the X-ray pattern, in contrast to introduction of zinc oxide. It was found that addi-tion of zinc oxide significantly increased the values of the specific surface area, many times more than expected, according to additivity principle. Conversely, addition of alumina did not give the expected increase in surface area. The one and the other were explained through active interaction of phases. The ratios of components for obtaining chemisorbents with optimal strength properties were established. It was found that a composite consisting of titanium and aluminum oxides was more resistant to sulfurization than one with additions of zinc oxide. SEM and low-temperature ni-trogen adsorption/desorption methods confirmed the mesoporous structure of the studied samples, while the sample containing gamma alumina showed a more pronounced desorption branch to-gether with the surface consisting of spherical formations arranged in a regular order. The sample with zinc oxide had slit-like pores in its volume. Hydrogenation of thiophene with gaseous hydro-gen was carried out for the studied composites. Chromatographic analysis of the resulting product was performed. It was proven that composites based on titanium, zinc, and aluminum oxides not only had sorption properties with respect to organosulfur compounds, but also catalyzed their de-structive hydrogenation. Thus, it was established that the studied samples were chemisorbents. The study provides insight into synthesis and properties of catalytic titania-based chemisorbents, high-lighting the influence of additives and their potential for organosulfur reduction reactions.
ANALISIS KESESUAIAN LAHAN UNTUK PEMBANGUNAN KAWASAN INDUSTRI MENGGUNAKAN SISTEM INFORMASI GEOGRAFIS (STUDI KASUS: KABUPATEN BLITAR)
Authors: Pramesthi Nanda Ayu Setya , Alina Aldea Noor , Yahya Fahrul
Published: September 2024

Kabupaten Blitar merupakan salah satu kabupaten yang terdapat di Provinsi Jawa Timur yang memiliki letak strategis, seperti memiliki potensi sumber daya alam dan potensi energi berbasis sumber daya alam. Posisi strategis ini dapat menunjang pertumbuhan sektor industri dengan pembangunan kawasan industri. Pada penelitian ini digunakan 9 parameter untuk menentukan kawasan industri, yaitu jarak terhadap pusat kota, jarak terhadap permukiman, jaringan transportasi darat, jaringan energi dan kelistrikan, jaringan telekomunikasi, sumber air baku, kemiringan lereng, penggunaan lahan, dan jenis tanah. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah skoring parameter. Berdasarkan hasil klasifikasi kesesuaian lahan dengan metode skoring dapat diketahui bahwa analisis tingkat kesesuaian lahan untuk pembangunan kawasan industri di Kabupaten Blitar dibagi menjadi 4 kelas, yaitu kelas sesuai (S2) dengan luas 3.705,46 Ha atau 2,12%, kelas cukup sesuai (S3) dengan luas 145.673,13 Ha atau 83,08%, kelas kurang sesuai (N1) dengan luas 25.862,42 Ha atau 14,74%, dan kelas tidak sesuai (N2) dengan luas 102,320 Ha atau 0,06%. Lokasi yang memiliki potensial untuk pembangunan kawasan industri di Kabupaten Blitar terletak di wilayah Kecamatan Wonotirto, Kecamatan Panggungrejo, Kecamatan Kademangan, Kecamatan Wates, Kecamatan Bakung, Kecamatan Gandusari, dan Kecamatan Ponggok.