bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inference on heterogeneous treatment effects in high‐dimensional dynamic panels under weak dependence
Authors: Semenova Vira , Goldman Matt , Chernozhukov Victor , Taddy Matt
Published: May 2023

This paper provides estimation and inference methods for conditional average treatment effects (CATE) characterized by a high‐dimensional parameter in both homogeneous cross‐sectional and unit‐heterogeneous dynamic panel data settings. In our leading example, we model CATE by interacting the base treatment variable with explanatory variables. The first step of our procedure is orthogonalization, where we partial out the controls and unit effects from the outcome and the base treatment and take the cross‐fitted residuals. This step uses a novel generic cross‐fitting method that we design for weakly dependent time series and panel data. This method “leaves out the neighbors” when fitting nuisance components, and we theoretically power it by using Strassen's coupling. As a result, we can rely on any modern machine learning method in the first step, provided it learns the residuals well enough. Second, we construct an orthogonal (or residual) learner of CATE—the lasso CATE—that regresses the outcome residual on the vector of interactions of the residualized treatment with explanatory variables. If the complexity of CATE function is simpler than that of the first‐stage regression, the orthogonal learner converges faster than the single‐stage regression‐based learner. Third, we perform simultaneous inference on parameters of the CATE function using debiasing. We also can use ordinary least squares in the last two steps when CATE is low‐dimensional. In heterogeneous panel data settings, we model the unobserved unit heterogeneity as a weakly sparse deviation from Mundlak's (1978) model of correlated unit effects as a linear function of time‐invariant covariates and make use of L1‐penalization to estimate these models. We demonstrate our methods by estimating price elasticities of groceries based on scanner data. We note that our results are new even for the cross‐sectional (i.i.d.) case.
Empathy for the Dead
Authors: Atkins Ashley
Published: May 2023

This paper argues that profound grief stems largely from our empathy for the dead. The Epicureans defended a version of this idea, claiming that the misery of grief is the product of imagining ourselves in the place of the dead and, from that perspective, seeming to gain insight into both the harmfulness of death and the obligations of the living to the dead—including the obligation to keep that misery alive. This inaugurated a tradition of suspicion of this kind of empathy, which was taken to involve a troubling confusion of self and other. Against this tradition—and the influential account of empathy developed by one of its main proponents, Adam Smith—I argue that empathy for the dead does indeed involve a confusion of self and other, but not one that requires correction. This empathy should be seen alongside other ethically transformative confusions of self and other—such as the sort required to love one’s neighbor as oneself.
Collective and Individual Experiences of Slaves in Leghorn, Pisa and Florence, 1702-1826
Authors: Bonazza Giulia
Published: May 2023

This article presents a group portrait of captives and slaves and a picture of some individual slaves’ lives in the Bagno of Leghorn and Pisa and in the House of Catechumens of Florence in the Grand Duchy of Tuscany during the period 1702-1826. This research is based on Leghorn government papers, the archive of Florence’s Ginori family and the records of the Magistrato del Bigallo.The study follows two lines of inquiry corresponding to two different scales of analysis. The first draws a group portrait from a list of slaves living at the Bagno of Leghorn and released in 1747. This portrait reveals a uniform and collective life and provides quantitative information on the latter, particularly concerning the question of the time of their captivity or their enslavement. The second line of investigation explores the experiences and individual trajectories of several slaves between Livorno, Pisa and Florence and raises questions about conclusive interpretations concerning the level of homogeneity in their living and working conditions. The presence of slaves and captives in galleys or prisons has been the subject of much research based on the many documents produced in these places, including lists of slaves that allow scholars to build a group portrait. The realization of this type of portrait requires, however, consideration of individual trajectories and differences. This is made possible by sources such as the supplications of slaves living in these places of detention as well as those resident in the House of Catechumens of Florence. The petitions of slaves, in both Pisa and Livorno, reveal the diversity of living conditions in the same place of detention. While historiography has emphasized a standardization of conditions in different environments—such as galleys and prisons—the study sheds light on how differences in physical qualities (health, physical strength, skin colour), geographical origin, professional skills or religion of captives and slaves had an impact on access to freedom, their agency, and their treatment by their owners. In addition, the sources of the Magistrato del Bigallo allow for a very subtle approach, making it possible to show for example the different experiences of a brother and a sister, both slaves and from Sub-Saharan Africa, in the House of Catechumens of Florence.These sources, less explored, bring to light formerly invisible stories of enslaved people from the Mediterranean and outside with singular trajectories that complicate existing interpretations. The two approaches, that of the group portrait and that concentrating on the individual experiences of the captives and slaves, are fundamental to developing a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon of slavery in Tuscany.
Internal career orientations guidance for emerging adults in a university of technology
Authors: Ngope Margaret M. , Coetzee Melinde
Published: May 2023

Background: Schein’s career orientations inventory (COI) is known to help undergraduate emerging adults develop deeper insight into the master career values that drive study and career choices.Objectives: The study’s objective was to assess the inner career orientations of young emerging adults in a university of technology setting.Method: The study had a cross-sectional design and involved a random sample (N = 368) of black African university of technology students (mean age = 20.76 years) enrolled for further studies at the Faculty of Humanities. An exploratory factor analysis of the COI was applied.Results: Four inner career orientations emerged labelled as security and stability (highest mean score), specialised creativity and problem solving (second highest mean score), entrepreneurship (third highest mean score), and general managerial autonomy (lowest mean score).Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the importance of uncovering the inner career orientations denoted by the career anchor factor structure of the COI for young emerging adults in a specific setting to ensure relevant and useful career guidance.Contribution: The study contributed to career guidance in the African context by providing new insights into the inner career orientations of black African emerging adults.
Experiences of healthcare staff in forensic care facilities supporting sexual violence survivors, in Tshwane, South Africa
Authors: Randa Moreoagae B. , McGarry Julie
Published: May 2023

Background: Sexual violence is a persisting global epidemic that is constantly increasing on a large scale. The rate of sexual violence in South Africa is one of the highest in the world; and it has been reported to appear socially normalised and acceptable.Objectives: The study aimed to explore and describe the experiences of healthcare staff working in forensic care centres (FCCs) in Tshwane, South Africa.Method: A qualitative approach was followed incorporating focus group interviews with a range of healthcare staff based in the two FCCs. Non-probability purposive sampling was done. Data analysis was informed by the Analytic Hierarchy Model which comprised of three steps: data management, descriptive accounts and developing explanatory accounts.Results: Three main themes emerged as, (1) help them to do away with the idea of self-blame: everyday work; (2) barriers to the accessibility of care: seeking alternative traditional remedies (muti) from traditional healers and working in an unconducive environment and (3) compassionately sick at times: Emotional impact of forensic care work.Conclusion: The findings revealed that the healthcare staff are often working in difficult circumstances and that both professional and societal factors mediate against the provision of care and support for survivors. Greater attention is needed both in terms of service development and wider challenges to pervading societal norms surrounding violence against women.Contribution: The study highlighted the need for training, improved management support and debriefing sessions.
Anthropomorphism according to Al-Ghazali (d. 1111) and Maimonides (d. 1204): A comparative discourse
Authors: Senin Nurhanisah , Mohd Khambali Hambali Khadijah , Wan Ramli Wan Adli , Amat Misra Mustafa Kamal , Ismail Nazneen
Published: May 2023

The existence of ‘human-like’ attributes and actions in the Qur’an and Hebrew Bible entails to various interpretations towards anthropomorphic verses among the Muslim and Jewish counterparts. Al-Ghazali and Maimonides in their discourses strongly affirmed the unity of God and refuted anthropomorphism. Therefore, this study expounded al-Ghazali and Maimonides’ methods in affirming the incorporeality of God through outlining the similarities and differences in their interpretation. This study was qualitative in nature which analyses writings of al-Ghazali and Maimonides in encountering anthropomorphism. It can be deduced that both scholars were found to be employing allegorical interpretation with different level of interpretations in their attempts to repudiate the corporeal form of God. Alternatively, they both agree on the literalist’s approach with conditions that one must not perceive God’s essence in a bodily figure. Consequently, believing so will lead one to heresy. In sum, their emphasis on an incorporeal God brought them to similar interpretation despite their different religion and theological or philosophical orientation.Contribution: This article contributed to comparative theological study in understanding anthropomorphic verses through the discourse of al-Ghazali and Maimonides in Islam and Judaism, respectively.
The liberation of women and girls as the liberation of Mother Earth: A theological discourse
Authors: Chireshe Excellent
Published: May 2023

This article, grounded in ecofeminism, considers the earth as symbolising women and girls and the liberation of women and girls as the liberation of the earth. When the environment is liberated from abuse, its capacity to sustain human life is enhanced. In the same way, when women and girls are freed from all forms of oppression and exploitation and are allowed to be self-actualising people, their capacity to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development and human welfare is enhanced. Given that women and girls play key culturally prescribed roles such as being carriers of life through childbirth, nurturing, caregiving and serving as pillars of the home, their oppression and exploitation stifle their contribution to societal development, thereby curtailing sustainable development. Similarly, abuse of the earth results in environmental crises such as floods, droughts, famine, heat waves and global warming, resulting in the earth’s diminished capacity to sustain life. This study was based on literature review and informal interviews involving participants from three churches (the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe, the Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe and the Johanne Marange Apostolic Church). This article examined the extent to which religion can empower women to participate in public activities including environmental management, epitomised by the way women and girls in the selected churches are perceived and treated. It is concluded that religion can be both liberating and binding to women and girls and, by implication, Mother Earth.Contribution: This article highlights parallels between females and Mother Earth, using the treatment of women and girls in three churches as the springboard of the discussion. It considers how far such treatment can promote their participation in public spheres that include taking care of and managing the environment.
Temporal modelling of Lymnaea natalensis (Krauss, 1848) in tropical aquatic habitats
Authors: Oso Opeyemi G. , Sunday Joseph O. , Odaibo Alexander B.
Published: May 2023

Lymnaea natalensis is the only snail intermediate host of Fasciola gigantica, the causative agent of fascioliasis, in Nigeria. The species also serves as intermediate host for many other African trematode species of medical and veterinary importance, and it is found throughout the country. However, there is no detailed information on the factors that influence its distribution and seasonal abundance in the tropical aquatic habitats in Nigeria. This study used the geographic information system and remotely sensed data to develop models for predicting the distribution of L. natalensis in South-Western Nigeria. Both land surface temperature (LST) and normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) were extracted from Landsat satellite imagery; other variables (slope and elevation) were extracted from a digital elevation model (DEM) while rainfall data were retrieved from the European Meteorology Research Programme (EMRP). These environmental variables were integrated into a geographic information system (GIS) to predict suitable habitats of L. natalensis using exploratory regression. A total of 1410 L. natalensis snails were collected vis-à-vis 22 sampling sites. Built-up areas recorded more L. natalensis compared with farmlands. There was no significant difference in the abundance of snails with season (p  0.05). The regression models showed that rainfall, NDVI, and slope were predictors of L. natalensis distribution. The habitats suitable for L. natalensis were central areas, while areas to the north and south were not suitable for L. natalensis.Contribution: The predictive risk models of L. natalensis in the study will be useful in mapping other areas where the snail sampling could not be conducted.
Nurses’ and patients’ experiences of family planning services in a rural district, South Africa
Authors: Naidoo Kartik , Jenkins Louis S.
Published: May 2023

Background: Family planning (FP) is a key component of primary health care (PHC). Nurses are the first source of FP information to women outside their social context. There is a paucity of research regarding clients’ lived experiences of FP, particularly understanding both the client’s and the healthcare worker’s experiences in the same clinical context and community.Aim: This study aims to explore the lived experiences of nurses and female clients regarding FP services at PHC clinics.Setting: Two PHC clinics in a rural sub-district in South Africa.Methods: A descriptive qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted. Clients and nurses were selected using criterion-based purposive sampling and interviewed by female research assistants in a home language in a private setting. Transcription and translation of audio recordings were done. Data were analysed inductively using the framework method.Results: Ten clients and eight nurses were interviewed, with an equal number from each clinic. The median age of clients was 28.5 years and of nurses was 47.5 years. Four themes emerged: (1) Stigma, culture and the teenage girl; (2) Bad effects – the Big Five, clustered around weight changes, blood blockages and abnormal bleeding, pain, fertility and cancer; (3) FP social dynamics; and (4) FP and the health system.Conclusion: Family planning is highly moralised and stigmatised. Negative effects of FP were not adequately recognised by the health system. Family planning outreach into the community and dedicated FP resources at clinics were suggestions to improve the service.Contribution: This work helps to better understand patients’ experiences of family planning services.
Recovering from burnout: Doing a home visit and finding an old friend and an entire community
Authors: Forgus Sheron T.
Published: May 2023

No abstract available.
Erratum: Delays in the referral and primary management of cutaneous malignant melanoma at Tygerberg Hospital
Authors: Naidoo Seshini , Burger Henriette , Esterhuizen Tonya M.
Published: May 2023

No abstract available.
Prevalence of depression, anxiety and burnout in medical students at the University of Namibia
Authors: Mhata Nelao T. , Ntlantsana Vuyokazi , Tomita Andrew M. , Mwambene Kissah , Saloojee Shamima
Published: May 2023

Background: There is an increased prevalence of depression, anxiety, and burnout among medical students worldwide with no information from Namibia.Aim: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with depression, anxiety, and burnout among medical students at the University of Namibia (UNAM).Methods: A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted utilising a specially designed questionnaire for the study and standardised instruments to evaluate depression, anxiety, and burnout.Results: Of the 229 students in this study, 71.6% were female and 28.4% were male. The prevalence of depression, anxiety, and burnout was 43.6%, 30.6%, and 36.2%, respectively. The prevalence of emotional exhaustion (EX), cynicism (CY), and professional efficacy (EF) was 68.1% (n = 156), 77.3% (n = 177) and 53.3% (n = 122), respectively. In the final regression model, participants with a current psychiatric illness were more likely to screen positive for depression (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.06, confidence interval [CI] 1.28–12.91; p = 0.02) and anxiety (aOR: 3.63, CI: 1.17–11.23; p = 0.03). Emotional exhaustion and cynicism were significantly associated with female gender (EX: aOR, 0.40, CI: 0.20–0.79; p = 0.01) (CY: aOR, 0.42, CI: 0.20–0.91; p = 0.03).Conclusion: More than one in three medical students at the UNAM were either depressed or burnt out.Contribution: This is the first study to highlight the mental health needs of medical students at the University of Namibia.
Clinicians’ perspective of picture archiving and communication systems at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital
Authors: Tshalibe Polite , Adrigwe Jacinta , Lucas Susan
Published: May 2023

Background: Picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) are now an established means of capturing, storing, distribution and viewing of all radiology images. The study was conducted in a quaternary hospital, Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital (CMJAH), part of the University of the Witwatersrand teaching circuit, in South Africa.Objectives: To measure the clinicians’ perceived benefits and challenges of PACS. To document perceived views on how the current PACS can be improved.Method: This was a cross-sectional observational study over a period of 5 months from September 2021 to January 2022 carried out at CMJAH. Questionnaires were distributed to referring clinicians with PACS experience. Descriptive statistics was conducted. Categorical variables were presented as frequency and percentages. The continuous variables were presented as means ± standard deviation.Results: A survey with a response rate of 54% found the benefits most reported by clinicians were improved patient care, less time needed to review an exam, improved image comparison and consultation efficiency. With respect to perceived challenges, the unavailability of images at the bedside, problems with access and the lack of advanced image manipulating software were noted. The most frequent recommendations on improvements focused on the aforementioned challenges.Conclusion: Hospital-wide PACS was viewed beneficial by most clinicians. Nonetheless, there are a few aspects that deserve attention to improve the functionality and access of the system.Contribution: The findings will assist in future hospital or provincial-wide PACS deployment projects.
Ubuntu and mourning practices in the Tsonga culture: Rite of passage
Authors: Khosa-Nkatini Hundzukani P.
Published: May 2023

The article focusses on ubuntu and mourning rituals practised in the Tsonga culture. Tsonga cultures and rituals have been proclaimed as being different from province to province with a few similarities. The rituals referred to in this research do not however encompass the belief systems of all Tsonga people in South Africa. This study discusses ubuntu in the Tsonga context and how they partake in the processes of bereavement, grieving, mourning, death rituals, mourning practice and unveiling of the tombstone. This article addresses some challenges and the theme of liturgical inculturation in the Tsonga mourning processes. The study also addresses the necessary liturgical aggiornamento needed in the Tsonga mourning processes. It covers the social and religious aspects of the process Ubuntu and mourning practices in the Tsonga culture.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The contextual perspective challenged by this research is the understanding of ubuntu and mourning rituals of the Tsonga people in accordance with their culture. This research made use of a literature review based on mourning rituals, which solidifies this research as a study within Practical Theology because it is a liturgical inculturation study.
Embracing the traces of the deity Opo Empung in Minahasa for culturative Christianity
Authors: Rumbay Christar A. , Siahaya Johannis
Published: May 2023

The conversation about God has the potential to generate constructive discussion because it is the central theme of various religious traditions in Indonesia. The belief of the Minahasa community, one of the tribes in Indonesia, regarding the expression of the Opo Empung deity has become a matter of debate because it contains mystical values. But on the other hand, there have been attempts to integrate the understanding of the divine with Christianity, but they have not achieved satisfactory results. This study sought to find the deity value of Opo Empung with a constructive intercultural approach, which can be an object of dialogue and discussion for the Christian religion so as to offer respect, tolerance and peace. This study used a qualitative approach. The main sources that were used as references are library data, articles, books and other scientific references, combined with ethnographic data collection. The results showed that the expression of the deity Opo Empung offers an object of conversation for interaction with religion. It represents strong religious values. This cultural reality opens up opportunities for interactive conversations between Christianity and cultural beliefs in order to create a harmonious and peaceful life.Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: Churches and Christians in Minahasa and Indonesia need to minimise conflicts with local culture. The church could be a light for the local culture to know God properly and a bridge to build religious tolerance and moderation. It should accept and befriend local culture considered by people as a religion for generations.
Acid–Base Abnormalities among Patients Admitted in the Intensive Care Unit of a Teaching Hospital
Authors: Mallela Venkata Rambabu , Alam Krishna Chaitanya , Pendurthi Amith Kumar , Manjula B. S. V.
Published: May 2023

Acid–base abnormalities (arterial blood gas [ABG]) pose a threat to survival in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. We present a case series of 60 cases from hospital records highlighting the acid–base abnormalities among ICU patients. All standard protocols were followed in the study hospital to collect the arterial blood samples and standard procedures for measurement of ABGs. We found that 93.3% had acid–base abnormalities, 13.3% had nonanion gap metabolic acidosis, 20% had anion gap metabolic acidosis, 50% had metabolic alkalosis, 45% had respiratory acidosis, 21.7% had respiratory alkalosis, 41.7% had mixed disorders, 31.7% had double disorders, and 10% had triple disorder. We conclude that mixed disorder is common in ICU patients with alkalosis being slightly more common than acidosis. By doing ABG, we will be able to detect the underlying acid–base disorder promptly and initiate treatment immediately so that we can decrease the suffering and save the lives of the patients. Hence, a careful look at the ABG within 24 h of admission of a patient to ICU can help save lives.
A Case of Puerperal Cerebral Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Konnur Abhishek , Rao Gurukanth , Belle Jayaprakash
Published: May 2023

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is a relatively rare, potentially fatal neurological condition that can be frequently overlooked due to the vague nature of its clinical and radiological presentation, particularly when not associated with pregnancy and puerperium. It is a multifactorial disease, and the major forms of clinical presentation include isolated intracranial hypertension syndrome, focal neurological deficits, seizures, and altered sensorium. Magnetic resonance imaging with magnetic resonance venogram is considered the gold standard for diagnosis. Pregnancy-induced changes in coagulation result in a hypercoagulable state, which may naturally reduce the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage but may also increase the risk of CVT. Favorable outcomes have been reported in patients who receive early diagnosis and treatment.
Cranial Polyneuropathy and Polyradiculopathy with Intractable Vomiting due to a Rare Etiology
Authors: Koshy Kiren G. , Taallapalli AVR , Rajula Rahul Reddy , Borse Paras R. , Nashi Saraswati , Nandeesh Bevinahalli Nanjegowda , Kulkarni Girish Baburao
Published: May 2023

Multiaxial involvement in neurological cases poses a diagnostic challenge even to the astute clinician. We present the case of a young man with multiple cranial nerve palsies, brain stem involvement, and subacutely progressive polyradiculoneuropathy. In addition, he had unexplained intractable vomiting, lymphadenopathy, and splenomegaly. These atypical features prompted us to evaluate for a secondary or systemic cause of polyneuropathy. Evaluation with neuroimaging and bone marrow examination revealed the underlying cause to be pre-T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (pre-T-ALL). While acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is known to cause central nervous system involvement, such extensive multiaxial involvement as the first presentation in an adult is extremely rare. In this report, we describe the diagnostic approach to such a case and review the literature.
Cabozantinib: A narrative drug review
Authors: Srigadha Vivek K. , Prabhash Kumar , Noronha Vanita , Joshi Amit , Patil Vijay M. , Menon Nandini , Singh Ajay K. , Shah Minit
Published: May 2023

Cabozantinib is a tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has been approved as therapy for several solid tumors, including metastatic renal cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and differentiated thyroid cancer. To prepare this review, we comprehensively searched various websites, including the United States Food and Drug Administration, the European Medicine Agency Drug Manual, PubMed, Science Direct, and UpToDate using the search terms, “cabozantinib,” “renal cell carcinoma,” “hepatocellular carcinoma,” “differentiated thyroid cancer,” and “medullary thyroid cancer.” We shortlisted all the full-text articles published between 2011 and 2022. Out of a total of 788 manuscripts identified, we included 52. This review of cabozantinib details the pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, clinical indications, adverse effects, safety, and the key research trials that investigated the use of cabozantinib. We have discussed the available clinical trial data and real-world outcomes, both with respect to the efficacy and safety of cabozantinib.
Performance Analysis of NOMA Over n-m Fading Channels with imperfect SIC
Authors: Quý Hữu Trần , Ong Mau Dung
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a downlink non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) network with two users is considered. In particular, the performance of NOMA is evaluated by assuming perfect and imperfect channel state information (CSI). We derive the closed-form expressions for the outage probability over η − µ fading channels in the special case of two users. Moreover, the proposed system model-based NOMA always achieves better performance than that with perfect CSI in the medium SNR region. Monte Carlo simulations are then performed to confirm a good match with the analytical results.
A Technical Study of Tennis Forehand Topspin Based on Sports Mechanics
Authors: Huang Tian , Gao Jinxia
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION: Forehand topspin is an important technique in tennis.OBJECTIVES: This paper studied the forehand topspin through sports mechanics to understand the technical feature differences of tennis players with different levels and to provide a reference for guiding the movement of forehand topspin of tennis players.METHODS: They were divided into groups A and B. Group A included the first-grade players, and group B included the second-grade players. The forehand topspin movement of the players was filmed by two high-speed cameras. The videos were processed using APAS software. The results showed that the ball speed of group A was 47.89 ± 5.64 m/s, which was significantly higher than that of group B (p < 0.05, i.e., significant level). After the back swing, group A had significantly smaller lower limb joint angles than group B (p < 0.05) and larger upper limb joint angles and velocities than group B. At the moment of swinging to hit the ball, the right elbow joint angle was smaller and the upper limb joint velocitywas faster in group A. At the end of the follow-through, group A had smaller right shoulder and elbow joint angles than group B (p < 0.05).RESULTS: The experimental results show the difference between players with different levels.CONCLUSION: Higher level players have more adequate lower limb pedaling and stretching and upper limb stretching and higher limb swing speed so that they can hit better topspin shots.
Real-Time Task Fault-Tolerant Scheduling Algorithm for Dynamic Monitoring Platform of Distribution Network Operation under Overload of Distribution Transformer
Authors: Huangfu Hancong , Wang Yongcai , Jiang Jiang
Published: May 2023

This paper proposes a real-time task fault-tolerant scheduling algorithm for a dynamic monitoring platform of distribution network operation under overload of distribution transformers. The proposed algorithm is based on wireless communication and mobile edge computing to address the challenges faced by distribution networks in handling the increasing load demand. For the considered system, we evaluate the system performance by analyzing the communication and computing latency, from which we then derive an analytical expression of system outage probability to facilitate the performance evaluation. We further optimize the system design by allocating computing resources for multiple mobile users, where a greedy-based optimization scheme is proposed. The proposed algorithm is evaluated through simulations, and the results demonstrate its effectiveness in reducing task completion time, improving resource utilization, and enhancing system reliability. The findings of this study can provide a basis for the development of practical solutions for the dynamic monitoring of distribution networks.
Periodismo de investigación: las cinco fases P
Authors: De Pablos José Manuel
Published: May 2023

El periodismo de investigación se realiza a través de cinco fases, que llamaremos 5P (la P es la inicial de cada una de las cinco fases indicadas), ineludibles en todo proceso investigador periodístico: 1ª fase P, la pista. 2ª fase P, la pesquisa. 3ª fase P, la publicación. 4ª fase P, la presión. 5ª fase P, la prisión. El autor expone paso a paso estas cinco fases con algunos ejemplos de la práctica cotidiana y subraya el interés de que sean conocidas, sobre todo la fase cuarta, cuando los afectados presionan de mil maneras al periodista para que ésta desista en su función investigadora.
Effect of partial replacement of aggregate with granulated polyethylene terephthalate (pet) on compressive strength of concrete
Authors: Orie O.U. , Olusesi O.J.
Published: May 2023

This paper is aimed at the development of appropriate combination of composite materials such as cement, aggregates and inclusion of Polyethylene  Terephthalate (PET) in varying proportion in order to determine the optimal measure for the optimal strength. The study also, investigated the effect of  PET aggregate on the compressive strength of concrete. Mix design targeting grade 25 concrete strength, using the Department of Environment (DOE)  approach was adopted. Five different concrete samples were prepared accordingly, using natural aggregate as control mix and four others which consist  of PET aggregate as partial replacement of fine aggregate at 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% ratios respectively. The recycled fine aggregate (PET) was processed  from bottle water waste, it was crushed, pressed and processed into finely material having river sand resemblance i.e., well distributed within sieve sizes  of 0.075 and 2.00. The batching was done by weight. Cubes specimens were prepared, cured for 7, 14, and 28days and tested for compression. The  results of the tests were analyzed statistically using regression method (Mintab) to establish optimal strength require mixture. The results and analysis  established that there were reduction in compressive strength of the concrete containing PET aggregate and reduction rates increased with increase in  the amount of PET inclusion in the concrete. The compressive strength values for 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% replacement of sand with PET at 28-day were 29.70N/mm2 , 25.95N/mm2 , 24.28N/mm2 and 23.23N/mm2 respectively. When compared with the control concrete specimens with an average value of  33.08N/mm2 gave 11.38%, 27.48%, 36.24% and 42.40% reduction in strength respectively. It was recommended that, though, the use of PET aggregate in  the production of concrete does not have significant appreciable effect on the concrete strength, its use will protect the environment and as well help  to conserve natural resources used as materials in production of concrete elements which currently undergo excessive depletion.
Short-Term Energy Load Forecasting Model with Sample Filtering
Authors: Kateule Ruthbetha , Sakala Lucas A. , Tunga Mahadia
Published: May 2023

Short-term energy load forecasting is a crucial task in the power smart grid, which enables the power utilities to understand the future energy demands and plans to attain the demand and supply equilibrium, thereby optimizing power deployment and reducing power losses. Several techniques have been implemented to enhance energy load forecasting. However, the nonlinear nature of the data collected in the smart grid makes it difficult to attain 100% energy load forecasting accuracy. For instance, the Deep Feedforward Neural Networks model based on Input Attention Mechanism and Hidden Connection Mechanism has a mean absolute percentage error of 3.17%; model based on Sequence to Sequence Recurrent Neural Network with Attention had a mean absolute percentage error of 2.7%. The model based on Deep Recurrent Neural Networks with Levenberg–Marquardt backpropagation algorithm had a mean absolute percentage error of 0.58; and Deep Feedforward Neural Network with sample weights model had 3.22 % as root mean squared error. To improve energy load forecasting accuracy, this work proposed a model based on Deep Recurrent Neural Networks and sample filtering, which provides an exhaustive elucidation for modelling a sophisticated stochastic relationship between the input and output features. Deep Recurrent Neural Networks have proven to be good at modelling the nonlinearities in data of different fields and are mostly used in energy load forecasting to reduce forecasting error and a high degree of overfitting. Sample filtering is achieved through the use of K-Means clustering which determines the number of clusters to be used in the model. Findings from the study showed that by employing Deep Recurrent Neural Networks and sample filtering, the short-term energy load forecasting accuracy is improved in reference to mean absolute percentage error and root mean squared error of 0.31% and 1.014, respectively. As a result of the reduction in error, the energy demand and supply chain equilibrium are enhanced, thereby optimizing power deployment and reducing power losses.

Keywords:  Machine learning, Neural networks, Sample filtering, Smart grid, Short-term energy forecasting
Prevalence of Endoparasites and Haematology in Redbelly Tilapia from a Shallow Tropical Reservoir in Ghana
Authors: Alhassan Elliot H. , Osei Samuel A. , Ampofo-Yeboah Akwasi , Dandi Samuel O.
Published: May 2023

The goal of this study was to assess common endoparasites on Tilapia zillii in the Tono Reservoir, as well as to investigate the mean intensity and prevalence of these parasites. A total of 175 fish specimens were examined during the study. Endoparasites of three metazoans and one protozoan were observed from the Tilapia zillii gills, intestines, and stomach. The findings showed that the most common endoparasites affecting Tilapia zillii are Ichthyopthirius multifiliis, Bothriocephalus sp., Contracaecum sp., and Dactylogyrus sp. Also, Contracaecum sp had the highest prevalence of 29.71, followed by Bothriocephalus sp (18.86), Ichthyopthirius multifiliis (12), and Dactylogyrus sp (6.86). The average quantity of Bothriocephalus sp was 0.84, Contracaecum sp was 1.33, Dactylogyrus sp was 0.31, and Ichthyopthirius multifiliis was 0.54. The reservoir's physicochemical parameters changed every month due to inflows and other runoffs joining. Low levels of these parameters were discovered to influence the prevalence and distribution of these parasites. Haematological parameters showed significant changes between the adult and fingerling groups, where it was observed an improvement in health status in the adult group. It was also observed that fingerlings (0.1–20 g) were more infected, which significantly affected their blood profile.

Keywords: Tilapia zillii, endoparasite, blood profile, pathogenic effects, environmental stress
Household and Community Factors Affecting Nutritional Status of Under-five Children (6-59 months) in Gairo District Using Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure
Authors: Mohamed Tausi M. , Nyaruhucha Cornelio N.
Published: May 2023

In Tanzania, where the majority of under-five children are affected, undernutrition is still a significant public health concern. The study aimed at assessing the prevalence of undernutrition and its determinants among under-five children in Gairo District using a Composite Index of Anthropometric Failure (CIAF). A household-based cross-sectional study was employed involving 300 under-five children with their mothers/caregivers in three wards in the Gairo District. Data collection on socio-demographics, dietary diversity, and healthcare factors were collected by interviewer-based semi-structured questionnaires. Anthropometric measurements using standard procedures were performed to collect anthropometric data. Odds ratios with a 95% confidence interval and p-value ≤ 0.05 were used to identify determinants of undernutrition. Prevalence of undernutrition using CIAF was 57.3%, whereby children with single failure were 105 (61%), double failures were 62 (36%) and triple failures were 5 (2.9%). Factors that were significantly associated with undernutrition were the nearest health facility (p = 0.014; OR: 0.504 (0.291-0.873)), place of delivery (p = 0.000; OR: 0.717 (0.107-0.490)), source of drinking water (p = 0.001; OR: 0.452 (0.283-0.722)), type of latrine (p = 0.000; OR: 21.338 (9.807-46.427)), household solid waste disposal method (p = 0.012; OR: 1.806 (0.682-1.964)), birth weight (p = 0.000; OR: 5.400 (2.625-11.109) and marital status (p = 0.00; OR: 0.403 (0.240-0.676)). Therefore, nutrition intervention efforts should be given to the factors reported to positively affect undernutrition.

Keywords: Undernutrition, factors, Gairo, under-five, CIAF
La conflictividad laboral durante la gestión estatal de Aerolíneas Argentinas (2009-2015). Un análisis a partir del accionar de la Agrupación Independiente de Trabajadores Aeronáuticos
Authors: Miguel Agustina
Published: May 2023

El objetivo de este artículo es analizar la conflictividad laboral en Aerolíneas Argentinas (AR) durante la gestión estatal del kirchnerismo (2009-2015) a partir de una experiencia organizativa surgida desde las bases gremiales del sector. En esa dirección, se propone caracterizar las formas de trabajo y organización del colectivo aeronáutico en AR; indagar en el proceso de conformación de la Agrupación Independiente de Trabajadores Aeronáuticos (AITA); y por último, analizar el accionar sindical de la agrupación en la conflictividad laboral en la empresa, focalizando en las reivindicaciones y modalidades de acción desplegadas.
¿Un muro de contención? La justicia del trabajo frente al avance del poder sindical durante el primer peronismo
Authors: Canavessi Pablo
Published: May 2023

El siguiente trabajo explora el vínculo que entablaron los delegados sindicales con la ley y la justicia durante el primer peronismo. La proliferación de comisiones internas de reclamos en los establecimientos industriales a partir de 1945 modificó drásticamente la correlación de fuerzas entre el capital y el trabajo al interior de los establecimientos industriales, dando lugar a una renovada conflictividad laboral. A través de la exploración de una serie de causas tramitadas en el Tribunal de Trabajo de Olavarría entre 1950 y 1955, el artículo ofrece una nueva vía para reconstruir las disputas por el control del proceso de trabajo y el papel jugado por los jueces laborales en su resolución.
A SOBRECARGA DO CUIDADOR INFORMAL E O SEU ESTADO DE HUMOR
Authors: Caldeira Hugo , Carrondo Ezequiel , Paulino Manuel , Mendes Roberto
Published: May 2023

O cuidador informal desempenha um papel de extrema importância. A sobrecarga do cuidador informal pode afetar o seu estado de humor e condicionar o processo de cuidar da pessoa dependente. Pretendeu-se analisar a relação entre a sobrecarga do cuidador informal da pessoa dependente e o seu estado de humor. Tratou-se de um estudo transversal, descritivo-correlacional, numa amostra não probabilística por conveniência de 101 cuidadores informais. A colheita de dados decorreu entre julho e outubro de 2019, com aplicação da Escala da Sobrecarga do Cuidador, da Escala de Perfil de Estados de Humor e do Índice de Barthel. Observou-se que 41,6% dos Cuidadores Informais se encontravam em sobrecarga intensa. No perfil do estado de humor a dimensão com pontuação mais elevada foi “vigor-atividade”. A pontuação total da Escala de Sobrecarga do Cuidador apresentou correlações significativas (p < 0,05) com todas as dimensões do Perfil de Estados de Humor. Os resultados salientam a importância da criação de redes de suporte e a relevância do papel do Enfermeiro especialista em enfermagem comunitária na capacitação do cuidador informal.
Telemonitoring of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Portugal: a case study
Authors: Nêveda Rui , Silva João , Belo José , Silva Fátima , Balinha Cátia
Published: May 2023

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common, preventable, and treatable disease, defined by persistent respiratory symptoms and airflow limitation. Acute COPD episodes dramatically impact patients’ quality of life and are a significant burden on healthcare systems. The remote monitorization of COPD patients enables prompt clinical intervention whenever needed, preventing acute episodes and delaying disease progression. Here we present the results from a tele-monitoring initiative for COPD patients, following a national multi-centre pilot study funded by the Shared Services of Ministry of Health (SPMS, Portugal), with 130 patients enrolled. The remote assessment of these patients allowed for the timely intervention in the management of acute episodes and yielded significant improvements for the number of emergency episodes, hospital admissions, days of hospitalization and costs. Moreover, results from a satisfaction questionnaire conducted in 2019 releveled high satisfaction levels among all users. Data on COPD patients’ tele-monitoring effectiveness through the COVID-19 pandemic was also collected. In conclusion, the tele-monitoring system for COPD patients herein reported significantly improved value-based healthcare, representing a valuable tool for other chronic diseases whenever clinically feasible.
EXPOSIÇÃO TELEVISIVA E OBESIDADE INFANTIL DAS CRIANÇAS DOS 6 AOS 11 ANOS. QUE RELAÇÃO? REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA DA LITERATURA
Authors: Teixeira Joana , Pereira Ana , Fernandes António
Published: May 2023

Estudos indicam uma associação entre a visualização televisiva e a obesidade, seja por incentivar o consumo de alimentos calóricos seja por conduzir ao sedentarismo, comportamento que contribui para a génese da obesidade. Este trabalho teve como objetivo estudar a relação entre a exposição televisiva e a obesidade infantil, em crianças dos 6 aos 11 anos. Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática da literatura, tendo sido selecionados 18 artigos nas plataformas Web of Science e PubMed, publicados entre 2008 e 2018, que respondessem aos objetivos. Esta revisão foi conduzida de acordo com as diretrizes PRISMA (Principais Itens para Relatar Revisões Sistemáticas e Meta-análises) e colaboração Cochrane para revisões sistemáticas. Verificou-se uma associação estatisticamente positiva entre o tempo de exposição televisiva e a obesidade (n=9; 53%). Em três artigos verificou-se uma relação entre a visualização de TV e a obesidade, independentemente do tempo despendido na visualização (n=3; 17,6%). Aferiu-se, também, que em 29,4% dos estudos (n=5), o nível de adiposidade aumentava nas crianças quando estas tinham uma TV no quarto.Constatando-se que a existência de aparelho televisivo no quarto e o tempo de visualização de TV se relacionam com a obesidade nas crianças, conclui-se que é necessário e urgente o estímulo a atividades que promovam de um estilo de vida ativo.
El tránsito desde la Administración papel hacia la Administración electrónica: Antecedentes, regulación actual, organización e implantación de procedimientos
Authors: Soriano Bautista Patricia
Published: May 2023

Las Administraciones Públicas han impulsado en los últimos años la utilización de medios electrónicos en su quehacer diario, favorecido por los nuevos medios tecnológicos que han ido desarrollándose, como medio para lograr un mejor servicio a la ciudadanía, regido por el principio de eficacia que proclama el artículo 103 de la Constitución Española. De este modo, la Administración Electrónica es un instrumento útil para transformar las Administraciones Públicas y hacerlas más eficaces, eficientes y modernas: permite simplificar los procedimientos, reduciendo el uso del papel y los plazos; reducir la carga administrativa, lograr una administración más productiva, facilitar a los ciudadanos un mayor y mejor acceso a la información pública; amplia los derechos de los ciudadanos y permite la plena utilización de los servicios administrativos por la ciudadanía; evita desplazamientos, al estar disponibles los servicios a cualquier hora del día, todos los días del año, con independencia de su localización geográfica. A estos avances han contribuido también los cambios normativos, dado que el marco jurídico ha evolucionado con el objetivo de conseguir que la electrónica sea la forma habitual de trabajo de las Administraciones, adaptándose así a la nueva realidad. La introducción de medios electrónicos en las Administraciones Públicas supone una gran revolución para ésta, tanto desde el punto de vista externo, por lo que respecta a las comunicaciones, como desde el punto de vista interno, por las modificaciones que supone para el procedimiento administrativo y para los ciudadanos, por la simplificación de los trámites administrativos, y la facilidad para acceder a la información.