bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enfoque integral para la atención imagenológica
Authors: Andrade Mora Diego , Celi Simbaña Stalin  Santiago
Published: August 2023

La imagenología es un especialidad médica fundamental en los servicios sanitarios al respaldar los procesos diagnósticos y terapéuticos de los pacientes.
En países de recursos medios y bajos, el acceso a los servicios imagenológicos es limitado y afecta sensiblemente a poblaciones económicamente desfavorecidas; adicionalmente, debido a la estructura de los sistemas de salud vigente se observa una menor atención centrada en la persona como un ser sentipensante y más bien interesa el resultado, la placa radiológica, tomográfica, de resonancia magnética o la imagen de ultrasonido.
Históricamente conocida por su menor contacto con los pacientes, no obstante es importante conocer al individuo en sus dimensiones sociodemográficos y culturales que permitan identificar sus necesidades y preferencias, que junto con un adecuado manejo de herramientas téoricas y tecnológicas permitan una atención integral.  
En este contexto, la imagenología como disciplina interdependiente con otras áreas de la medicina, requiere de una renovación técnica constante, pero también del refuerzo sólido y permanente de su enfoque social, bioético y humanístico.
El entendimiento de los aspectos mencionados permitirá a los profesionales de la imagenología mejorar la calidad en la prestación de sus servicios, impactando positivamente en la atención del paciente.
TRABALHO DA EQUIPE DE ENFERMAGEM NO SERVIÇO DE URGÊNCIA E EMERGÊNCIA PEDIÁTRICA: REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA
Authors: Teixeira Juliana de Paula , Gabatz Ruth Irmgard Bärtschi , Teixeira Kaiane Passos , Hirschmann Roberta , Milbrath Viviane Marten , De Moura Alexia Camargo Knapp
Published: August 2023

RESUMOObjetivo: conhecer a produção científica sobre o trabalho da equipe de enfermagem no serviço de urgência e emergência pediátrica. Método: revisão integrativa cuja coleta dos dados foi realizada a partir de fontes secundárias, por meio de um levantamento bibliográfico. Resultados: acredita-se que ambiente adequado e recursos disponíveis facilitam a assistência ao paciente que será assistido e torna proficiente o trabalho do profissional. Observou-se a importância do trabalho da enfermagem na equipe de saúde, visto que este é o profissional com maior proximidade da criança e seu familiar, destacando-se a necessidade de conhecimentos para realização do acolhimento e atendimento adequado. Conclusão: identificou-se uma lacuna em publicações que buscavam conhecer a perspectiva dos profissionais acerca do seu trabalho cotidiano, sendo este um tema potencial para a realização de estudos, visando melhorar a qualidade da assistência e o suporte a essa população.
ANÁLISE VACINAL DE ESTUDANTES EM UMA FACULDADE DE MEDICINA NO INTERIOR DE SÃO PAULO
Authors: Modiano Patrícia , Herrero Ana Laura de Oliveira , Silveira Andrea Fernanda , Piai Rebeca Cury , Veríssimo Victor Hugo Manochio , Moreira Maria Luiza de Freitas Feliciano , Fabbro Nadia , Pileggi Gecilmara Salviato
Published: August 2023

O estudo analisa a situação vacinal dos estudantes de medicina de uma faculdade do interior de São Paulo, partindo-se do princípio de que a vacinação é fundamental desde os primeiros anos da graduação. Foi feita uma análise na carteira de vacina de 277 estudantes, matriculados entre o 2º e o 6º  ano do curso, e aplicado um questionário fechado para identificar sua percepção e conhecimento sobre o processo de imunização. Verificou-se que, embora considerem a vacinação importante, apenas 31,5% dos participantes sabem quais vacinas são indicadas para as áreas específicas de atuação, 81,9% possuem a carteira vacinal legível, mas em 55,5% dos casos o documento está desatualizado. Esses e outros resultados, apresentados ao longo deste artigo, demonstram a importância de se estabelecer um protocolo para orientar os estudantes desde os anos iniciais da graduação, devendo as instituições de ensino monitorarem a sua situação vacinal dos mesmos durante o curso.
Medidores de condutividade térmica fluxométricos: um estudo de prospecção
Authors: Jesus Hare Kumaichi Onga de , Callejas Ivan Julio Apolonio , Durante Luciane Cleonice
Published: August 2023

As modificações na biosfera, a exemplo de fenômenos como as ilhas de calor urbano e de aumento da concentração dos gases do efeito estufa despertam a necessidade de se repensar imediatamente o ambiente urbano e as suas edificações. Nessa perspectiva, devem ser definidos materiais cujas propriedades térmicas dos elementos construtivos contribuam com o desempenho térmico das edificações de acordo com as condições bioclimáticas do local. Para tanto, no Brasil, há uma limitação na prestação de serviços em ensaios para a definição das propriedades térmicas à exemplo da condutividade térmica, uma vez que os equipamentos que permitem esse tipo de análise não estão disponíveis na maioria dos laboratórios das empresas e nas universidades devido ao seu alto custo. Isso faz com que, sob o ponto de vista térmico, não exista uma avaliação de forma mais precisa durante a etapa do projeto. Na prática, os valores das propriedades térmicas utilizados são aqueles padronizados normativamente, o que muitas vezes não representa o comportamento do material/componente aplicado localmente durante a etapa de execução da edificação. Diante disso, o objetivo desse artigo é a realização de uma revisão sistemática e uma busca de anterioridade de patentes de medidores de condutividade térmica baseados no método fluxométrico, escolhidos por possuem construção simplificada e retornam com resultados da condutividade térmica mais rapidamente em relação ao princípio da placa quente protegida. Por fim, discute-se acerca dos resultados encontrados, das perspectivas e oportunidades cabíveis ao tema.
Coping with Stigma: Experiences and Responses of Former Youth in Care
Authors: Carey Christine
Published: August 2023

This paper examines social stigma in relation to child welfare involvement. Drawing on interviews with twenty former youth in care, the paper highlights the participants’ experiences with stigma and their adaptive responses. Notably, participants described pervasive stigma that accompanied their status as youth in care. To contend with the stigma they experienced, participants developed a range of responses, including concealment, challenging the stereotypes, physical retaliation, and seeking solidarity. The study aligns with previous research identifying concealment as a relevant strategy for mitigating the effects of stigma among foster care recipients. However, the results also extend the literature in this area by identifying additional adaptive responses. Moreover, the participants revealed that the stigma they experienced was pervasive, yielding long-term effects.
Knowledge and Practice of Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises Among Antenatal and Postnatal Women Attending a Secondary Health Facility in Southeast, Nigeria
Authors: Madu Theresa Obiageli , Obiekwu Adaobi Lilian , Mbadugha Chisom Joy , Omotola Ngozi Joy
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:Pelvic floor exercise is beneficial to every antenatal and postnatal woman as it helps to strengthen the pelvic floor muscle and prevent pelvic floor complications. Although the knowledge, practice, and benefits of pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFMEs) are fairly known among health care professionals, there seems to be a deficit in knowledge and practice of PFMEs among antenatal and postnatal women in the study location.

OBJECTIVES:This study assessed the knowledge and practice of PFMEs among women attending antenatal and postnatal clinics in a secondary health center, in Southeast, Nigeria.

METHODS:Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, a convenience sampling technique was used to select 143 pregnant and postpartum women at a secondary health center. A researcher-designed questionnaire was used to collect information on their demographics, knowledge, and the practice of pelvic floor exercises. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 25 at 5% alpha level.

RESULTS:The findings showed that a small proportion (28.5%) had good knowledge; however, 54 (54.7%) practiced PFMEs. There was a significant relationship between knowledge and practice of pelvic floor exercises (p< .001).

CONCLUSION:Limited knowledge and practice of PFMEs exist among the study population; therefore, good clinical practice guidelines should be developed to train and guide health providers on the best way to utilize antenatal classes to inform and train the antenatal and postnatal women properly on PFMEs.
Women’s Experiences of Care Provider Interaction During Decision-Making About Induction of Labor: A Narrative Systematic Review of the Qualitative Literature
Authors: Reid Katrina , Hollins Martin Caroline J.
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:In addition to improving maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity, the World Health Organization now additionally requests that maternity care providers provide high-quality respectful care to childbearing women. Within this study, providing respectful care surrounds helping women make decisions about whether or not to have their labor induced, which encompasses providing goodcare provider interaction(CPI) within a considerate and empathetic interface. With this in mind, we wanted to explore what prior studies report about women’s experiences of CPI when deciding whether or not to have their labor induced.

METHOD:A narrative systematic review of qualitative literature was conducted.

RESULTS:Nine articles published between 2010 and May 2022 met the inclusion criteria, from which four themes were identified: (a) involvement in the decision-making process; (b) risk awareness; (c) sources and format of the information; and (d) trust in the care provider. The synthesis of data showed that many women feel uninvolved in decision-making processes surrounding their induction of labor (IOL) and perceive that they were provided with minimal choice. While most women have high levels of trust in their care provider, risks surrounding continuing the pregnancy often remain undiscussed. Additionally, women sometimes feel rushed into making a decision, with a lack of information provided in the right format regarding potential risks that might be involved.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:In full recognition that maternity care professionals are motivated to communicate effectively with women, it is important that the risks of having IOL are fully discussed. The information provided needs to be tailored in both content and format according to individualized needs. Women require to explore their options and be afforded time to ask questions prior to deciding whether or not to have their labor induced.
Pregnancy-Related Anxiety and Associated Coping Styles and Strategies: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Brosens Charlotte , Gils Yannic van , Branden Laura Van den , Bleijenbergh Roxanne , Rimaux Sophie , Mestdagh Eveline , Kuipers Yvonne J.
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:Pregnancy-related anxiety is a distinct psychological construct during pregnancy, requiring adequate coping behavior.

METHOD:A cross-sectional survey was performed among 420 pregnant Dutch-speaking women in Belgium to establish the prevalence rate of pregnancy-related anxiety and to explore its associated coping styles and strategies. Pregnancy-related anxiety was measured with the Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire-Revised (PRAQ-R2) and coping was measured with the Brief Coping Orientation to Problems Experienced.

FINDINGS:Based on PRAQ-R2 score ≥90th percentile, the pregnancy-related anxiety prevalence rate was 13.3%. Women with heightened scores significantly more often had a (family) history of psychological problems (p= .027,p= .013), were significantly more often nulliparous women (p< .000), had a fear of birth (p= .041), felt ill-prepared for birth and parenthood (p< .000), and significantly more often reported to have received insufficient emotional (p= .002) and practical support (p< .000) during pregnancy. The coping style “avoidance” showed a significant positive association with pregnancy-related anxiety (p< .000), while “positive thinking” showed a significant negative association (p= .054). The coping strategies “self-blame,” “substance use,” and “self-distraction” showed a significant positive association with pregnancy-related anxiety (p< .001,p= .011,p= .003).

CONCLUSION:Flemish women show overall maladaptive styles and strategies in coping with pregnancy-related anxiety, of which self-blame seems to be a newfound strategy, requiring attention. Health care practitioners might benefit when being aware of the predisposing factors of pregnancy-related anxiety and women’s (mal)adaptive coping styles and strategies to better understand and adequately support these women.
Women’s Experiences of Pregnancy, Birth, and the Postpartum Period During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study
Authors: Zammit Jessica , Fenech Pauline , Borg Xuereb Rita , Riva Nicoletta
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is linked with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, the effects of lockdown measures on pregnant women’s mental health are still largely unknown.

AIM:To explore women’s experiences of pregnancy, labor/birth, and the postpartum period during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHOD:An online cross-sectional survey was conducted between July 2020 and May 2021. Two questionnaires were used: one focused on demographic information and women’s experiences of pregnancy and perinatal period, and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Data were analyzed via statistical and content analysis.

RESULTS:Two-hundred and 78 women answered the questionnaire. Stress and anxiety were the predominant challenges for many women; 36.3% reported being moderately and 17.3% highly stressed and anxious during pregnancy; 23.9% reported being moderately and 26.8% highly stressed and anxious during labor/birth. On the EPDS, 40.2% of women scored ≥11 points, indicating that they were at high risk for postpartum depression. The level of stress and anxiety during pregnancy and labor/birth was significantly higher in women with depressive symptoms compared with the other women (p< .001 for both comparisons). In addition, the proportion of women with depressive symptoms who were supported by friends during pregnancy was significantly lower compared with the other women (51.8% vs. 68.3%,p= .006). Women with depressive symptoms also reported a significantly lower presence of their partner during birth (95.5% vs. 99.4%,p= .040) and significantly lower perceived support from the midwife during labor and birth (p= .042). Content analysis revealed that sources of social and emotional stress and anxiety included women’s inability to meet with friends and extended families, lack of support, loneliness, the need to protect the baby, and concerns about hygiene.

CONCLUSION:Partners, friends, and family members play a significant role in the social support systems of pregnant women, and their support was hindered by the lockdown measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. In our study, the prevalence of women at high risk for postpartum depression was higher when compared with previous literature, suggesting that the pandemic contributed to an increase in stress and anxiety. This should be taken into consideration in planning maternity services after the pandemic.
Veterans Health Administration Develops Rehabilitation Counselor Qualification Standards to Meet Future Needs
Authors: Howell Marny , Barton Sharon , Inniss-Johnson Joy , Nelson Anne Marie , Rahn Shelley , Bakken Shana
Published: August 2023

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) released qualification standards establishing the requirements for appointment as a rehabilitation counselor. The qualification standards represent a conversion of the previous vocational rehabilitation counselor occupational series to the broader discipline of rehabilitation counseling, the establishment of a national certification requirement, and conversion to the Hybrid Title 38 hiring authority to facilitate increased recruitment and retention. This article provides an overview of the new qualification standards and requirements for employment, reviews the occupation in the VHA, discusses internship opportunities, emphasizes how academia can help prepare students for service delivery to veterans, and offers guidance on connecting with a local Veterans Administration Medical Center and applying for federal employment.
Intersectionality in CACREP-Accredited Rehabilitation Counselor Education: An Analysis of Multicultural Counseling Course Syllabi
Authors: Yaghmaian Rana , Zeidan Adriana , Pebdani Roxanna N.
Published: August 2023

Though the importance of the inclusion of multicultural and social justice competencies in rehabilitation counselor education has been attended to for years, we know little about the content, concepts, activities, and assignments included in multicultural counseling courses. This mixed-methods study analyzed 25 multicultural counseling syllabi from CACREP-accredited rehabilitation counseling programs. Results indicated that nearly half of the multicultural counseling syllabi analyzed took an essentialist approach to educate future rehabilitation counselors. Very few syllabi mentioned the immigrant and refugee experience, and no syllabi exploredsize diversity and/or anti-fat bias. Class assignments and activities assigned exercises focused largely on students’ racial and ethnic identities. Additionally, results showed a common theme of ethnographic interviews, cultural site visits, and cultural immersion exercises. A call to action for counselor educators is included.
Value Change and Cognitive Dissonance: A Conceptual Model for Psychosocial Adaptation to Disability and Chronic Illness
Authors: Zhou Kaiqi
Published: August 2023

Background:Value change is critical for individuals’ psychosocial adaptation to chronic illness and disability. Although current value change theories facilitate our understanding of this process, limited interventions have been developed based on these theoretical frameworks.

Objective:The purpose of the study is to examine the issues with current value change theories and propose a value change application model.

Methods:A literature review approach was conducted in order to develop a value change application model by merging perspectives from rehabilitation psychology, cognitive dissonance theory, and schema theory.

Findings:The Disability Inconsistency Model is proposed in the present study.

Conclusion:The Disability Inconsistency Model views value from a dynamic perspective and identifies the catalyst to facilitate the psychosocial adaptation process. It also provides implications for the development of relevant interventions.
Novedades en materia de incapacidad temporal
Authors: Esteve Segarra Amparo
Published: August 2023

El artículo aborda tres reformas en la prestación de incapacidad temporal. En primer lugar, la LGSS ha sido modificada para atender a las novedades introducidas por la Ley Orgánica 1/2023, de 28 de febrero, por la que se modifica la Ley Orgánica 2/2010, de 3 de marzo, de salud sexual y reproductiva y de la interrupción voluntaria del embarazo. En segundo lugar, la reforma operada por el Real Decreto-Ley 2/2023, también introdujo cambios, en vigor a partir del 17 de mayo. Finalmente, para cerrar esta secuencia legal diacrónica en sentido inverso, hubo cambios derivados del Real Decreto 1060/2022 y la Orden IMS/2/2023.
Effects of aging-induced obesity on the transcriptional expression of adipogenesis and thermogenic activity in the gonadal white adipose, brown adipose, and skeletal muscle tissues
Authors: Kwon Insu , Talib Nurul Fatihah , Zhu JunShu , Yang Hyung-In , Kim Kyoung Soo
Published: August 2023

[Purpose] Aging is closely associated with chronic metabolic diseases, such as obesity, which lead to increased adiposity, skeletal muscle wasting, and imbalanced cellular energy metabolism. However, transcriptional profiles representing energy imbalances in aging-induced obesity are not fully understood. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the candidate genes predominantly regulated in aging-related obesity in spontaneously aged mice.[Methods] Male C57BL/6J mice were divided into three age groups according to age: 2- (young), 12- (middle-aged), and 24- (old) months. Body weight and body composition parameters were measured in all mice. Gonadal white adipose tissue (gWAT), brown adipose tissue (BAT), and skeletal muscle (SM) were dissected and weighed. The target tissues were assessed using biochemical and histological assays.[Results] Aging-induced obesity increased adipose mass and decreased SM weight through processes of adipocyte hypertrophy; however, recruitment of modulating adipogenesis-inducing transcription factors did not occur. Among adipokines, leptin level was greatly increased in the gWAT during aging. Interestingly, the β2-adrenergic receptor had a higher affinity than the β3-adrenergic receptor in aging-induced obesity. For the thermogenic regulation through β-adrenergic receptors (β-ARs), a declined uncoupling protein-1 (UCP-1) in the BAT was relevant to aging-induced obesity.[Conclusion] Aging-induced obesity increases leptin levels in adipocytes and decreases UCP-1 in BAT through β-ARs, according to transcriptional gene profiling. WAT browning increases energy expenditure due to exercise training adaptations. Further research is needed to discover more effective methods, such as exercise, against aging-induced obesity.
Some synergetic therapy strategies for overcoming hypoxia for photodynamic therapy of cancer
Authors: Chai Tian , Li Ya , Cai Yeyu , Li Yiyang , Kenar Necla , Lim Hyun Soo , Temple Hunter , Chen Xiangyu , Chen Wei
Published: August 2023

As an emerging strategy in antitumor therapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has garnered significant attention in recent years for the treatment of various malignant tumors. This is due to its low side effects, superior spatial selectivity, and maximum preservation of normal tissue function. However, the hypoxic nature of tumors, continuous oxygen consumption, and microvascular damage associated with PDT treatment have impeded its development. Therefore, the focus of antitumor therapy has shifted towards enhancing the efficacy of PDT by addressing tumor hypoxia. The objective of this review is to assess and summarize the recent advancements in tumor treatment using synergistic therapy strategies (PDT+X, where X represents photothermal therapy, chemodynamic therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, Photoacoustic therapy, etc .) that overcome hypoxia. Additionally, this review aims to outline the advantages and disadvantages of various collaborative methods for improving tumor hypoxia, while also discussing the challenges that lie ahead for future research.
Advances in extracellular vesicle isolation methods: a path towards cell-type specific EV isolation
Authors: Shami-shah Adnan , Travis Benjamin G , Walt David R
Published: August 2023

Extracellular vesicles are small, heterogenous, phospholipid-rich vesicles that are secreted by all cells into the extracellular space. They play a key role in intercellular communication because they can transport a variety of biomolecules such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids between cells. As categorized by the International Society of Extracellular Vesicles (ISEV), the term EV encompasses different sub-types, including exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies, which differ in their size, origin, and cargo. EVs can be isolated from biological fluids such as blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid, and their biomolecular content can be analyzed to monitor the progression of certain diseases. Therefore, EVs can be used as a new source of liquid biomarkers for advancing novel diagnostic and therapeutic tools. Isolating and analyzing EVs can be challenging due to their nanoscopic size and low abundance. Several techniques have been developed for the isolation and characterization of EVs, including ultracentrifugation, density gradient separation, size-exclusion chromatography, microfluidics, and magnetic bead-based/affinity methods. This review highlights advances in EV isolation techniques in the last decade and provides a perspective on their advantages, limitations, and potential application to cell-type specific EV isolation in the future.
An overview of medical applications of montmorillonite clay
Authors: Hassen Jasim Hamadi , Abdalkadir Hamad Kalefa , Abed Saher Faiq
Published: August 2023

Clays are among the most important material available in nature. Montmorillonite MMT is an important type of clay mineral whose physical structure is typically perceptible as layers and sheets. Each layer is made up of one octahedral and two tetrahedral structural sheets. Due to its distinctive properties, such as swelling and adsorption, MMT has been used in a variety of industrial and therapeutic applications. The high adsorption capacity of MMT contributes to increasing drug intercalation and then its sustained release. By strongly adhering to the drug, MMT typically maintains drug release in many formulations and speeds up the solubility and bioavailability of hydrophobic drugs. MMT has also been used to develop composite delivery systems that combine it with other polymer-based materials. MMT could therefore be used to develop a variety of drug delivery systems to regulate and enhance a drug's pharmacological qualities, such as solubility, dissolution rate, and absorption. An important note to mention is that clays in general are traditionally considered bio-inert or even biocompatible. In this review, the distinguished applications of MMT clay as an agent in the medical field were discussed. Among those applications is its use as an antibacterial agent, detoxification agent, preventive obesity agent, drug carrier agent, and in the treatment of cancer, diarrhea, wounds, and bones.
Peramalan Nilai Ekspor Provinsi Kalimantan Timur Menggunakan Metode Double Eksponential Smoothing (DES)
Authors: Marindra Afifah , Kesumawati Ayundyah
Published: August 2023

Ekspor merupakan kegiatan perdagangan antar negara dengan cara mengeluarkan barang dari dalam ke luar wilayah pabean Indonesia yang mampu mendorong kualitas perdagangan di Indonesia. Nilai ekspor Provinsi Kalimantan Timur periode Januari-September 2021 mencapai US$ 15,63 miliar atau meningkat 65,15% dibandingkan periode sebelumnya. Nilai ekspor berpengaruh terhadap cadangan devisa dari suatu negara dimana bila ekspor dari suatu negara lebih besar dibanding dengan nilai impornya, maka negara tersebut akan memperoleh keuntungan berupa devisa yang akan disimpan dalam cadangan evisa. Artinya semakin tinggi nilai ekspor maka posisi cadangan devisa juga akan meningkat. Pelaku perekonomian nasional membutuhkan informasi mengenai model dalam meramalkan ekspor di masa mendatang sehingga penulis melakukan penelitian mengenai peramalan terhadap nilai ekspor Provinsi Kalimantan Timur yang dianggap memiliki kontribusi yang signifikan terhadap kegiatan ekspor di Indonesia sebagai penghasil devisa utama bagi Indonesia. Metode statistika dalam penelitian ini adalah Double Exponential Smoothing yang digunakan untuk melakukan peramalan terhadap nilai ekspor Provinsi Kalimantan Timur pada 7 bulan mendatang yaitu pada bulan Desember 2021 hingga Juni 2022 dengan parameter pemulusan nilai level () yaitu sebesar 0.7371267 dan pemulusan nilai trend sebesar 0.06790403 didapatkan tingkat akurasi peramalan menggunakan MSE sebesar 60406.25 dan MAPE sebesar 8.905644%.
The Pandemic and Africa: A Review of the Psychological and Social Impact of COVID-19 in Africa
Authors: Wei Calvin R. , Nourmohammadi Niki , Rizwan Maria , Lang’at Godwin C.
Published: August 2023

Covid-19 has had a significant impact on the lives of populations across the world. Since the first reported case of the coronavirus in Wuhan, China, the world faced a situation of dealing with a novel virus. While the physical health effects of the coronavirus was the center of focus for much of the pandemic, Covid-19 was accompanied with significant social and psychological consequences on the world populations. In this review, we aim to assess how the coronavirus pandemic has affected the African continent at large, highlighting the socio-psychological consequences. Through citing some examples of a few countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, the review will detail the experiences of the populations within this region which remain plagued with economic and health vulnerabilities that were further exposed by the pandemic.
Implications of Self-Medication with Natural Products during Disease Outbreaks in Developing Countries: A Systematic Review
Authors: ADEBIYI Salem Kivos
Published: August 2023

Self-medication with natural products during disease outbreaks in developing countries poses significant public health challenges yet remains relatively unexplored in the published literature. This study aims to assess the implications of such practices, address the state and quality of evidence, identify gaps in the literature, explore determinants and contributing factors, elucidating the implications, and propose possible solutions. Using a modified systematic literature review methodology, 20 articles were selected from 1,683 reports after applying rigorous selection criteria and quality assessment using the AXIS critical evaluation tool. The findings revealed a dearth of literature concerning the implications of self-medication with natural products during disease outbreaks, highlighting the need for further investigation in this domain. Key determinants included gender, acquisition, and ideological factors, while common side effects comprised diarrhoea, stomach pain, sweating, headache, and nausea/vomiting. Notably, self-medication with natural products was associated with reduced communication with healthcare providers, leading to underreported side effects. It also creates a false sense of safety which may potentially exacerbate the spread of the prevailing disease. In conclusion, the rampant use of natural products for self-medication necessitates increased awareness among the population, encouraging individuals to seek professional medical care and support when faced with disease outbreaks.
Real-time Embedded System-based Approach for Sensing Power Consumption on Motion Profiles
Authors: García-Martínez José R. , Olmedo García Luis Fernando , Cruz Miguel Edson Eduardo , Barra Vázquez Omar Alexander , Gonzalez-Lee Mario , Martínez Sánchez Trinidad
Published: August 2023

Currently, a wide variety of velocity profiles are used in motion control. Thus, this paper compares the energy consumption of three parabolic, trapezoidal, and S-curve profiles. We studied the case of using embedded systems since they are a powerful solution to monitor and coordinate the movement of devices and machinery in various industries combined with motion control applications. These integrated systems allow precise and efficient control of motors and actuators through control and feedback algorithms. In addition, we propose an alternative methodology for implementing motion controllers using an Advanced RISC Machine (ARM) microcontroller, which computes the trajectory and the control action in real-time. We conducted an experiment using a linear plant composed of a direct current (DC) motor coupled to an endless screw where a carriage is mounted that can move mechanically along a rail a distance of 1.16m. In addition, a 4096 pulses per revolution (PPR) encoder is connected to the motor to measure position and angular velocity, which compute the distance the carriage has moved in meters. A current sensor is used to assess the energy consumption, and 40 tests for each profile were carried out to compare the energy consumption for the three-motion profiles considering cases with and without load on the carriage.
Effect of Noncircular Channel on Variation of Threshold Voltage in 3D NAND Flash Memory
Authors: Go Donghyun , Yoon Gilsang , Park Jounghun , Kim Donghwi , Kim Jiwon , Kim Jungsik , Lee Jeong-Soo
Published: August 2023

Variations in threshold voltage (VTH) and charge distributions in noncircular cells of three-dimensional (3D) NAND flash memory are investigated. The electric field difference in the circular and spike regions causes nonuniform trapped electron density in the charge trap layer (CTL) and influences the VTH variation. Such less-trapped electron (LT) regions in CTL between the circular and spike regions exhibit a lower electric field during the program, resulting in a higher current flow through that region. For the two-spike cells, the charge distribution and VTH variation are analyzed at different heights (HSpike) and angles between spikes. These irregular cells decrease VTH as the HSpike increases.
The RI.P.R.O.VA.RE Project. A Risk Mitigation Approach to Support the Regeneration of Inland Areas
Authors: Galderisi Adriana , Fiore Pierfrancesco , Ferlisi Settimio , Petti Luigi , Plaitano Francesco , D'Andria Emanuela , Ciervo Fabio , Viccione Giacomo
Published: August 2023

The abandonment of inland areas has become a major demographical challenge, establishing a condition of local fragility in terms of spatial marginalization. To deal with this issue, a number of policy actions have been released over the time, namely the National Strategy for Inland Areas, established in Italy a decade ago, and more recently the Next Generation EU (NGEU) to foster local economic recovery and employment. In this context, RI.P.R.O.VA.RE., a project funded by the former Italian Ministry of the Environment and Protection of Land and Sea (MATTM), aimed at strengthening the resilience characteristics of communities and territories, focusing on areas falling in the Matese and Ufita in Campania Region and the Medio Agri in Basilicata Region (Southern Italy). Besides the ability to respond to different pressure factors (demographics, economic, geophysical, etc.), the project dealt with seismic, hydraulic and landslide risk conditions in the Matese area, proposing mitigation measures. After presenting the developed methodology, the results obtained for the study area are presented and discussed. The procedure can be applied as supporting tool to enhance the regeneration of inland areas.
The Consistency of the Distribution Function Conditional Estimate and Application on the Consistency and Asymptotic Normality of the Conditional Hazard Function Estimate for High Dimensional Quasi-Associated Data
Authors: Daoudi Hamza , Elmezouar Zouaoui Chikr , Alshahrani Fatimah
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study is to examine a nonparametric estimate , using the kernel approach, of the conditional distribution function of a scalar response variable that is given a random variable whose values take place in a separable real Hilbert space. The observations will be dependent on one another in a quasi-associated fashion. The pointwise practically perfect consistencies with rates of this estimator are established by us under some broad conditions. The study’s major objective is to investigate the convergence rate of the proposed estimator and its application in the convergence rate and asymptotic normality of the hazard function. The asymptotic normality of the developed estimator is established precisely. Simulation studies were conducted to investigate the behavior of the asymptotic property in the context of finite sample data.
Process Parameters Optimization for Hybrid Manufacturing of PLA Components, with Improved Surface Quality
Authors: Pascu Sergiu , Balc Nicolae
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a new method of process parameters optimization, adequate for 3D printing of PLA (Polylactic Acid) components. The authors developed a new Hybrid Manufacturing Equipment (HME), suitable for producing complex parts made from a biodegradable thermoplastic polymer, for environmental sustainability. Our new HME equipment is producing PLA parts by both additive and subtractive techniques, with the aim of obtaining accurate PLA components with a good surface quality. A design of experiments has been applied for optimization purposes. The following manufacturing parameters were analyzed: rotation of the spindle, cutting depth, feed rate, layer thickness, nozzle speed, and surface roughness. Linear regression models and neural network models were developed to improve and predict the surface roughness of the manufactured parts. A new test part was designed and manufactured from PLA, to validate the new mathematical models, which can now be applied for producing complex parts made from polymer materials.
Biodeterioration and Chemical Corrosion of Concrete in the Marine Environment: Too Complex for Prediction
Authors: Gaylarde Christine Claire , Ortega Benjamin Otto
Published: August 2023

Concrete is the most utilized construction material worldwide. In the marine environment, it is subject to chemical degradation through reactions with chloride (the most important ion), sulfate and magnesium ions in seawater and to biodeterioration resulting from biological (initially microbiological) activities, principally acid production. These two types of corrosion are reviewed and the failure of attempts to predict the degree of deterioration resulting from each is noted. Chemical (abiotic) corrosion is greatest in the splash zone of coastal constructions, while phenomenological evidence suggests that biodeterioration is greatest in tidal zones. There have been no comparative experiments to determine the rates and types of microbial biofilm formation in these zones. Both chemical and microbiological concrete deterioration are complex and have not been successfully modeled. The interaction between abiotic corrosion and biofilm formation is considered. EPS can maintain surface hydration, potentially reducing abiotic corrosion. The early marine biofilm contains relatively specific bacterial colonizers, including cyanobacteria and proteobacteria; these change over time, producing a generic concrete biofilm, but adhesion of microorganisms to concrete in the oceans is little investigated. The colonization of artificial reefs is briefly discussed. Concrete appears to be a relatively prescriptive substrate, with modifications necessary to increase colonization for the required goal of increasing biological diversity.
In Vitro Antimicotic Activity and Structural Damage Against Canine Malassezia pachydermatis Strains Caused by Mexican Stinglees Bee Propolis
Authors: Fuentes Diana Berenice , Pérez Betsabé Rodrígez , García Carlos Gerardo , Betancourt Nelly Tovar , Penieres José Guillermo , Galindo Florentina Hernández , Flores Javier Pérez , Cruz Tonatiuh Alejandro
Published: August 2023

This work demonstrates the antimycotic activity and structural damage of stingless bee propolis against Malassezia pachydermatis,causative agent of canine otitis.Two propolis ethanolic extracts(EEP) derived from the stingless bees, Scaptotrigona mexicana and Tetragonisca angustula were tested against three clinical strains of Malassezia pachydermatis and one of reference (ATCC 14522). Each ethanolic extract of propolis was analyzed by Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry(GC-MS). Antimycotic activity was evaluated by plate microdilution. To evaluate the induced changes in yeasts, by fluorescence microscopy, stains were performed with chalcofluor white and propidium iodide. For both propolis, sesquiterpenes were the main components determined by GC-MS. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 32 mg/mL and a minimum fungicidal concentration of 64 mg/Ml were determined in both extracts. EPP of Scaptotrigona mexicana and Tetragonisca angustula caused significant damage to yeast morphology. Propidium iodide penetration was observed, indicating damage to the yeast and with calcofluor-white stain, only morphology deformation was observed..The antimycotic activity and structural damage of propolis from Scaptotrigona mexicana and Tetragonisca angustula against Malassezia pachydermtais was demonstrated .This probably being the first scientific report that demonstrates structural damage in Malassezia pachydermatis of Mexican stingless bee propolis
Evidence That Behaviours Presented by Foals During Real Farm Routine Managements Correlate to Behavioural Predictors When They Are Older
Authors: Peruchi Ana Paula de Moraes , Andrade Antonio Tadeu de , Schmidek Anita
Published: August 2023

It could be helpful if behaviours presented in routine handling could be used as temperament indicators, thus directing tailor-made managements, optimising resources, and animal welfare. We evaluate whether behaviours presented by 25 foals during the first navel treatment and first halter session at weaning. Their behaviour was assessed during a novel object transposition test when they were one year of age. Behavioural parameters presented then were correlated with behaviours presented at navel treatment and haltering. Foals that showed higher exploratory activity during the test correlated to foals that showed less reactivity and less tickling at navel treatment and that were more relaxed and showed less reactivity haltering. Confidence to transpose the novel object was correlated with foals that were more relaxed, showed less reactivity and were less ticklish at navel treatment and were more relaxed during haltering. Transposition style correlated foals less prone to transpose with foals less curious in humans at navel treatment and more vigilant at haltering. Correlations verified between routine management and behaviour test indicate the possibility of early identification of equine temperament, allowing management techniques and specific training for the individual, enhancing training efficiency, animal welfare, and better human-horse interactions.
Blockchain-Based Smart Farm Security Framework for the Internet of Things
Authors: Aliyu Ahmed Abubakar , Liu Jinshuo
Published: August 2023

Smart farming, as a branch of the Internet of Things (IoT), combines the recognition of agricultural economic competencies, the progress of data and information collected from connected devices with statistical analysis to characterize the essentials of the assimilated information, allowing farmers to make intelligent conclusions that will maximize the harvest benefit. However, the integration of advanced technologies requires the adoption of high-tech security approaches. In this paper, we present a framework that promises to enhance the security and privacy of smart farms by leveraging the decentralized nature of blockchain technology. The framework stores and manages data acquired from IoT devices installed in smart farms using a distributed ledger architecture, which provides secure and tamper-proof data storage and ensures the integrity and validity of the data. The study uses the AWS cloud, ESP32, the smart farm security monitoring framework, and the Ethereum Rinkeby smart contract mechanism, which enables automated execution of pre-defined rules and regulations. As a result of a proof-of-concept implementation, the system can detect and respond to security threats in real time, and the results illustrate its usefulness in improving the security of smart farms.
CONSTRUCTION OF THE SOLUTION OF THE SYSTEM OF SINGULARLY PERTURBATED DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS WITH A DIFFERENTIAL TURNING POINT
Authors: Zelenska Iryna
Published: August 2023

In this work, a system of singularly perturbed differential equations of the 4th order with a small parameter at the highest derivative and a turning point is considered. The turning point x=0 is located in the end of the segment [-l;0] under consideration. The coefficients of a given matrix are infinitely differentiable functions on a given interval. The goal is to construct a uniform solution asymptotics for a system of singularly perturbed differential equations with a differential turning point on the segment [-l;0]. In this case, the spectrum of the limit operator contains multiple and identically zero elements. The uniform asymptotic solution is constructed by the method of essential-singular functions using the Airy functions [0;l] and their derivatives. Studies have shown that the Apparatus of Airy functions and model equations is quite effective for constructing a uniform asymptotic solution of problems with turning points. It was also established that in order to select these functions along with the independent variable it is necessary to introduce a new variable t of the segment [0;l]. As a result, an extended problem will be obtained, which will make it possible to formally find the solution in the form of series with a small parameter. The constructions of the solutions are obtained by sequentially solving the systems of iterative equations, which at a certain step of the iterations make it possible to determine all the components of the sought-after vector functions with an accuracy of two scalar factors that form an arbitrary vector. The regularizing function Bi(t) is chosen in such a way that the function increases indefinitely when t approaches the infinity. The conducted studies showed that for any ratio of the signs of the matrix coefficient near which the inflection point is located, it is not possible to write down a smooth solution in the form of a single analytical expression. The solution of a degenerate vector equation in the general case has a discontinuity of the second kind at the inflection point, so it cannot be used explicitly to construct the asymptotic solution of this problem. For this purpose, a technique from the classical theory of linear differential equations was applied and solutions for a degenerate equation of the 2nd order were obtained.
The Effect of Exports, Imports And Exchange Rates On The National Foreign Exchange Reserves 2000-2019
Authors: Rijoly Jacobus Cliff Diky , Louhenapessy Desry Jonelda , Panggabean Jodi Aleksander
Published: August 2023

This study intends to assess the shock from national foreign exchange's primary variables, such as exports, imports, and exchange rates, for the period 2000-2019. The data utilized in this study came from the Indonesian Statistics Bureau (BPS), the Bank of Indonesia (BI), and the World Bank 2021. For this analysis, we utilize an autoregressive framework to capture the shock and explain its long-term influence on a country’s foreign exchange reserves. The results of the VECM study indicate that exports have a large, long- and short-term positive influence on foreign exchange reserves, whereas imports have no effect on foreign exchange reserves and the exchange rate has a considerable effect on Indonesia's foreign currency reserves. On national foreign exchange reserves, exports have a positive impact, imports a negative impact, and the exchange rate has a substantial impact.
Analysis of Leading Sectors as Supporting the Economy with the Location Quotient, Shift Share, and Klassen Typology Methods in Sukabumi, West Java
Authors: Fauzan Muhammad , Hendrati Ignatia Martha
Published: August 2023

Regional economic development aims to facilitate employment opportunities or job opportunities in large numbers for the local area. In an effort to realize this goal, to obtain regional development initiatives, collaboration between the regional government and the local community must be carried out. Therefore, the participation of local governments and residents who are willing to interpret the capacity of the resources needed to develop and design the regional economy. This study aims to examine the economic sectors in Sukabumi Regency that are unique, have potential, and can be improved to promote economic growth. For Sukabumi Regency and West Java Province over a five-year period, this study uses secondary data from the Central Bureau of Statistics. between the years 2016 - 2020. The leading sector analysis techniques used through 3 stages are Location Quotient, Shift Share, Typology Klassen. The results of this study indicate that from the results of the analysis of leading sectors to support the economy in Sukabumi Regency, there are 10 basic sectors. besides that there are 8 sectors in quadrant 1, 2 sectors in 2nd quadrant, 4 sectors in 3rd quadrant, 3 sectors in 4th quadrant.