bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reading Practice of Nutrition Labeling and Associated Factors Among Packaged Food Consumers in Bahir Dar City, Ethiopia
Authors: Adebabay Aemiro , Birhanu Dereje , Endalk Genet , Adal Ousman
Published: January 2024

Introduction
: The consumption of processed and packaged foods is on the rise in cities like Bahir Dar. Despite this trend, little is known about the extent to which people in the area read nutritional labels on packaged foods.
Objective
This study aims to evaluate the consumer reading practices of nutritional labeling and identify associated factors among consumers of packaged foods.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was carried out on a randomly selected sample of 606 individuals purchasing packaged foods in Bahir Dar city from May 27 to June 27, 2022. Systematic random sampling was employed to select study participants, and data were collected through face-to-face interviews. Data was interred into Epi data version 3.1 and analysis using SPSS version 26. Binary logistic regression models, utilizing both bivariate and multivariable analysis methods, and declared significant at P-value < 0.05 with AOR 95% of CI.
Results
The study revealed that 58.9% (CI: 54.9%−62.9%) of participants exhibited poor reading practices of nutrition labels on packaged foods. Factors associated with poor reading practices included age 18−29 (AOR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.23, 3.80), elementary education (AOR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.16, 1.52), being single (AOR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.33, 2.00), absence of health problems (AOR = 1.48, 95% CI: 1.04, 2.64), not working in food establishments (AOR = 3.44, 95% CI: 1.06, 11.0), and poor nutritional knowledge (AOR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.24, 2.50).
Conclusion
The study indicates a lower level of nutritional label reading practice in Bahir Dar city compared to previous studies in Addis Ababa. Therefore, collaborative efforts involving the regional health bureau and other stakeholders are recommended to enhance nutrition education.
Successful treatment of renal staghorn stones with flexible ureteroscopy and Thulium Fiber Laser (TFL) lithotripsy: a prospective study.
Authors: Gul Tawiz , laymon Mahmoud , Alrayashi Maged , Abdelkareem Mohamed , Salah Morshed
Published: January 2024

Purpose To investigate the efficacy and safety of flexible ureteroscopy with thulium fiber laser lithotripsy for management of renal staghorn stones.
Materials and Methods Thirty-two patients with staghorn stones were recruited. Stone characteristics including: width, length, volume and density were analyzed. Ablation speed, laser efficacy and laser activity were recorded. The primary outcome was to assess stone free rate after the procedure using spiral CT scan.
Results The median stone volume was 7339 (3183-53838) mm3. Median operative and lasing time were 135 (70-200) and 117 (50-180) minutes, respectively. The mean total energy delivered was 63.9±30 KJ with a median ablation speed of 1.3 (0.5-4.9) mm3/sec. Mean laser efficacy was 7.5 ±3.6 Joules/mm3. A total of 12 complications occurred in 8 patients (25%). The median hospital stay was 7 (3.5-48) hours and 30 patients (93.7%) were discharged on the same day of surgery. After the first session, seventeen patients (53%) were stone free with no residual fragments while six (19%) patients had residuals £ 2 mm. Nine patients (28%) had residuals > 2 mm with median residual size of 4 (3-9) mm. A second intervention was required in 4 cases.The overall stone free rate after completion of treatment was 65.6%.
Conclusion Flexible ureteroscopy with thulium fiber laser lithotripsy is a safe and effective treatment option for staghorn stones with stone free rate comparable to standard PCNL with advantages of minimal morbidity, minimal blood loss and shorter hospital stay.
Study of the process of tightly focused linearly polarized laser pulses interacting with a stationary single electron
Authors: Ji Miao , Xiang Zhongze , Tian Youwei
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we focus on the study of nonlinear Thomson scattering process in tightly focused linearly polarized laser pulses. We simulated the interaction of linearly polarized laser pulse with a stationary electron. We find that the interaction process does not evolve linearly with increasing time and can be divided into a period of strong interaction and a period of weak interaction. During strong interaction period, the electron's radiation power initially forms a single-peak distribution across the spatial domain, then evolves into a double-peak distribution. During weak interaction period, the double-peak structure gradually evolves into a multi-peak structure. The collimation of the electron radiation independently changes, first strengthening and then weakening. We analyze in detail the change in the azimuthal angle in the direction of maximum radiation corresponding to the peak radiated power. In addition, a more simplified proportional equation for the radiated power was derived, and we verified its accuracy with simulations. In the direction of maximum radiation, we also observed the process of the radiated power in the time domain and the process of the radiant energy in the frequency domain. By varying the interaction time, electron radiation with the desired properties can be obtained.
Comparison of Efficacy of Nadroparin and Fondaparinux sodium for Prevention of Deep Vein Thromboembolism in lower extremities after Total Hip Arthroplasty and Total Knee Arthroplasty: a retrospective study of 592 patients
Authors: Gao Xiang , Jin Xiaowei , Huang Rui , Li Zhenxing , Zhang Hanle , Fan Pei
Published: January 2024

Objectives: To compare the efficacy of nadroparin and fondaparinux sodium for prevention of deep vein thromboembolism (DVT) in lower extremities after total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA).
Methods：A total of 592 patients were enrolled in the study. Clinical data of patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in our hospital from December 2021 to September 2022 were retrospectively collected, which mainly included patients' general information, surgery-related information, and DVT-related information. The patients were categorized into the nadroparin group(n=278) and the fondaparinux sodium group(n=314) according to the types of anticoagulants used. Anticoagulant therapy began 12-24 hours after operation and continued until discharge. DVT prevalence between two groups was compared. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 25 (SPSS, Armonk, NY, USA) was used for statistical analysis.
Results：The prevalence of DVT in the nadroparin group and the fondaparinux sodium group was 8.3% (23/278) and 15.0% (47/314), respectively(p=0.012). Statistical analysis showed that nadroparin group showed a lower prevalence of thrombosis than fondaparinux group (OR=1.952, P=0.012). Subgroup analyses showed that nadroparin group had a lower prevalence of DVT than fondaparinux group in some special patients groups such as female patients (OR=2.258, P= 0.007), patients who are 65-79 years old (OR=2.796, P = 0.004), patients with hypertension (OR=2.237, P=0.042), patients who underwent TKA (OR = 2.091, P=0.011), and patients who underwent combined spinal-epidural anesthesia (OR=2.490, P=0.003) (P<0.05).
Conclusion: Nadroparinmay have an advantage over fondaparinux sodium in preventing DVT in lower extremities after THA and TKA.
The Impact of Heterogeneity on the Effectiveness of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: A Case Series on Metastatic Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Yanyan , Zhou Jun , Wan Chang , Pang Jingdan , Liu Sha , Xu Jianping , Wu Zhengsheng , Bi Guobin , Du Yingying
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To investigate the disparities in tumor parenchyma and microenvironment between primary tumors and metastasis of urothelial carcinoma. Additionally, the study aims to determine whether the heterogeneity in these factors affects the predictive effectiveness of immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Methods: In this retrospective study, we investigated the treatment outcomes of 5 patients with metastatic urothelial carcinoma who were treated with first-line immune checkpoint inhibitors. We analyzed various biomarkers including genomic profile, programmed cell death receptor ligand-1 expression, tumor mutation burden, microsatellite instability, T-cell ratio, and tertiary lymphoid structure in both primary and metastatic samples. Additionally, we collected and analyzed relevant clinical data.
Results: At the genetic level, the main different genes were TSC1/2, MCL1, RAC1. TSC1/2 and MCL1 were acquired by metastases and RAC1 were lost by metastases. There were differences in programmed cell death receptor ligand-1, tumor mutation burden, T-cell ratio, tertiary lymphoid structure . All tumors in this study were microsatellite stable. In two patients with clinical disease control, the proportion of CD3+ T cell and CD8+ T cell in metastases increased compared with the primary tumors, and tertiary lymphatic structure changed from negative to positive expression. These results suggest that metastases may have more lymphocytic infiltrates and some form tertiary lymphoid structures, and patients with this feature may respond better to immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Conclusions: The analysis revealed both similarities and differences between primary and distant metastasis samples in the context of urothelial carcinoma. We strongly advocate for re-biopsy of metastases following the occurrence of metastases and suggest that treatment methods should be chosen based on the detection of these metastases.
Choice of Urethral Reconstruction Methods following Necrotizing Fasciitis and Urethral Defects in the Scrotal Region
Authors: Duan Liujian , Cao Jianwei , Cui Xingang , Li Chao
Published: January 2024

Objective
This study aimed to investigate the diagnosis, treatment, and selection of second-stage urethral reconstruction methods for necrotizing fasciitis and urethral defects in the scrotal region.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted of a case of necrotizing fasciitis and urethral defects in the scrotal region treated by the author. The clinical and pathological characteristics, treatment process, surgical methods, outcomes of second-stage urethral reconstruction, and relevant literature were summarized.
Results
A patient with necrotizing fasciitis and urethral defects in the scrotal region underwent bladder diversion, surgical debridement, vacuum-sealing drainage, and wound closure. Four weeks after the wound healed, the patient was discharged for recuperation. Six months later, scrotal urethral reconstruction was performed using a circular penile skin flap graft to repair the 12 cm urethral defect. The urethral catheter was removed after three weeks, resulting in unobstructed urination and satisfactory recovery.
Conclusion
Clinical cases of necrotizing fasciitis and complete urethral defects in the scrotal region are rare. In the first stage, diverting urine flow and completely removing necrotic tissue while controlling the infection are crucial. After wound healing, the selection of an appropriate method for second-stage urethral reconstruction can achieve favorable outcomes.
Differential role of glucocorticoid receptor based on its cell type specific expression on tumor cells and infiltrating lymphocytes
Authors: P Snijesh V , Nimbalkar Vidya P. , Patil Sharada , Rajarajan Savitha , E. Anupama C. , S Mahalakshmi , Alexander Annie , R Soundharya , Ramesh Rakesh , Sri B. S. , Jolly Mohit Kumar , Prabhu Jyothi S.
Published: January 2024

Background: The glucocorticoid receptor (GR) is frequently expressed in breast cancer (BC), and its prognostic implications are contingent on estrogen receptor (ER) status. To address conflicting reports and explore therapeutic potential, a GR signature (GRsig) independent of ER status was developed. We also investigated cell type-specific GR protein expression in BC tumor epithelial cells and infiltrating lymphocytes.
Methods: GRsig was derived from Dexamethasone-treated cell lines through a bioinformatic pipeline. Immunohistochemistry assessed GR protein expression. Associations between GRsig and tumor phenotypes (proliferation, cytolytic activity (CYT), immune cell distribution, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition(EMT)) were explored in public datasets. Single-cell RNA sequencing data evaluated context-dependent GR roles, and a cell type-specific prognostic role was assessed in an independent BC cohort.
Results: High GRsig levels were associated with a favorable prognosis across BC subtypes. Tumor-specific high GRsig correlated with lower proliferation, increased CYT, and anti-tumorigenic immune cells. Single-cell data analysis revealed higher GRsig expression in immune cells, negatively correlating with EMT while a positive correlation was observed with EMT primarily in tumor and stromal cells. Univariate and multivariate analyses demonstrated the robust and independent predictive capability of GRsig for favorable prognosis. GR protein expression on immune cells in triple-negative tumors indicated a favorable prognosis.
Conclusion: This study underscores the cell type-specific role of GR, where its expression on tumor cells is associated with aggressive features like EMT, while in infiltrating lymphocytes, it predicts a better prognosis, particularly within TNBC tumors. The GRsig emerges as a promising independent prognostic indicator across diverse BC subtypes.
Negative effects of Syria’s earthquake 2023 in Aleppo city
Authors: Zidan Dina , Lala Mohammad , Jbili Rajwah , Najaty Ghina , Zidan Noura
Published: January 2024

Earthquakes are unexpected and destructive disasters that can cause massive destruction and huge losses of life. Often, the survivors may suffer severe psychological symptoms. With the lack of related studies in the psychological field after the natural disaster that happened in Aleppo city, Syria. So, there must be a concentrated study that focuses on affected people and their feeling after treating them with anti-depressants. In our work, two questionnaires have distributed among 40 individuals that agreed on participating in this study. The questions have focused on the effect of anti-depressants API and Placebo medicines in minimizing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Our results have shown that people who given placebo were less percentages of fear after three months from the first questionnaire. Benefits of taking anti-depressants by time with continuing treatment, which is why placebo succeeded more than anti-depressants in this study.
Deep Profiling of Agroecological Resilience based on Self-Organized Productivity
Authors: Funabashi Masatoshi
Published: January 2024

Transformative change in primary food production is urgently needed in the face of climate change and biodiversity loss. Although there are a growing number of studies aimed at global policymaking, actual implementations require on-site deep analyses of social-ecological feasibility. Here, we report the first implementations of low-input mixed polyculture of highly diverse crops (synecoculture) in Japan and Burkina Faso. Results showed that the self-organized primary production of ecosystems follows a power law and performs better compared with conventional monoculture methods in 1) promoting diversity and total quantity of products along with rapid increase of in-field biodiversity, especially in a semi-arid environment where local reversal of regime shift is observed; 2) a fundamental reduction of inputs and environmental load; and 3) ecosystem-based autonomous adaptation of the crop portfolio to climatic variability. The overall benefits imply substantial possibilities for a new typology of sustainable farming based on human-guided augmentation of ecosystem services and biodiversity maintenance mechanisms that could overcome the historical trade-off between productivity and biodiversity.
Is Childhood Mortality Higher in Urban Poor Than in Rural India?
Authors: Das Ujjwal
Published: January 2024

The present paper examines the childhood mortality differential among urban poor and rural India using data from two rounds of National Family Health Survey Conducted in 2005-06 and 2015-16. Concentration index (CI), and cox regression were applied to address the research problem. Furthermore predicted probability was used to identify the potential predictors of infant and child mortality after adjusting the predictor variables. The findings suggest a decreasing trend in in infant mortality and child mortality both urban poor and rural India during this period. The economic inequalities respect to child mortality is higher in urban poor than in rural India. Hazard regression suggested that higher risk of child mortality in urban areas, due to poverty, low female literacy, low coverage antenatal care and safe delivery in the community. Even after controlling the possible bio-demographic variables, the study reveals that percentage declined mortality in rural areas higher than the urban poor but inequality is more widened in urban poor in India. The health program should be initiatives a major role to reducing infant and child mortality rates for both urban poor and rural India.
The decarbonisation of the maritime sector: Horizon 2050
Authors:   Energy Engineering Research Group, University Institute of Maritime Studies, ETSNM, University of A Coruña, Prados José Miguel Mahía
Published: January 2024

The decarbonisation of the maritime sector is one of the world’s priorities to reduce the volume of polluting emissions. The basis of this decarbonisation is the adaptation of existing ships to emission control regulations by means of transformations, installation of new equipment, development of new low-emission fuels and development of the infrastructure that makes the supply of this new generation of fuels feasible. In addition, hydrogen is the energy vector for all these new technologies, and its role over the next 30 years needs to be addressed. In a changing global situation such as the one we are currently experiencing; this article has the objective of making a review paper on the different fuels currently being used in the maritime sector and the existing alternatives. It also discusses the situation and the impact the current environmental situation has on the world ship order book, both in terms of legislation and economics. As a conclusion, the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) will have a very important role to play as a bridge between the current situation and the development of hydrogen technology. Hydrogen is an energy vector that can achieve the decarbonisation objectives by 2050. Storage problems, lack of infrastructures to supply it and the development of technology and regulations are the major challenges it will have to face. Biofuels also present a serious proposal for the decarbonisation of the sector, and the role of hydrogen in their composition, is essential to achieve green fuel generation.
Profile of Teacher Leaders in an Indonesian School Context: How the Teachers Perceive Themselves
Authors:   Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Jalan Prof. Sumantri Brojonegoro No. 1, Rajabasa, Bandar Lampung, Lampung, 35145 Indonesia, Hariri Hasan , Mukhlis Hamid ,   Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Jalan Prof. Sumantri Brojonegoro No. 1, Rajabasa, Bandar Lampung, Lampung, 35145 Indonesia, Sumintono Bambang ,   Faculty of Education, Universitas Islam Internasional Indonesia, Jalan Raya Bogor KM 33.5, Cisalak, Sukmajaya, Depok, West Java, 16416 Indonesia
Published: January 2024

Teacher leaders play an important role in advancing learning in schools. However, this theme is under-researched, particularly in the Indonesian school context. This study investigated how Indonesian teachers rate themselves as being teacher leaders using the Teacher Leadership Self-Assessment (TLSA) instrument with a quantitative approach. The data was collected from 3,564 teachers from Lampung Province, Indonesia, with a cross-sectional method using an online platform. The collected data was analysed using the Rasch Analysis approach and showed good reliability and validity for the TLSA instrument as well as the Indonesian data. The findings showed that Indonesian teachers perceived themselves as having high levels of teacher leadership, but at the same time, the behaviours under the construct of communication were rarely engaged in and was thus identified as an area for improvement. Meanwhile, in terms of perceiving themselves as teacher leaders, the senior teachers, and those with more working experience were more significantly different in many constructs compared to the other demographic variables. The implications of this study suggest that there is still room to enhance teacher leadership by identifying the constructs and considering the teachers’ demographic variables.
Current Research Trends and Research Themes of Breaking Bad News: A Systematic Review
Authors:   Language Academy, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia, Mohd Sharif Nurhidayah , Ibrahim Noor Aireen ,   Language Academy, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia, Mohd Don Zuraidah ,   Language Academy, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia, Haladin Nur’ain Balqis ,   Language Academy, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor, Malaysia
Published: January 2024

Breaking bad news is challenging and complex for healthcare professionals. The art of breaking bad news is not just difficult to master, but it may also put the physician-patient relationship as well as the overall quality of healthcare in jeopardy. Hence, it is important to keep abreast of recent research trends and themes on breaking bad news to better understand the issues discussed in the research ground. This study, therefore, aims to gauge the research trends and, at the same time, identify the research themes in current literature. A systematic literature review of breaking bad news research following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols (PRISMA-P) statement was conducted on articles published within a ten-year period between 2011 and 2020. From the 187 articles obtained from the initial search, the researchers were able to extract 152 articles with full-text access. After screening the articles using the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 35 articles were finally selected, examined, and summarised in a table. Descriptive synthesis analysis was used to analyse the data, which was later thematically classified. The findings revealed three main foci of current breaking bad news research: (a) initiatives to improve breaking bad news; (b) ways to break bad news; and (c) the emotions of healthcare professionals when breaking bad news. The review of current literature has revealed significant research gaps, which is beneficial in determining important but neglected areas of study for future research.
Relevancy of Embryology in Modern Medical Curriculum
Authors:   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Mukhtar Siti Fatimah , Asari Mohd Asnizam ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Kasim Fazlina ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Mohd Ismail Zul Izhar ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Hadie Siti Nurma Hanim ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Mohd Yusof Nurul Aiman ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Shamsuddin Shamsi Amalina ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Simok Anna Alicia ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Mohd Amin Mohamad Syabil Ikhwan ,   Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia
Published: January 2024

Traditionally, embryology is considered a valuable part of the medical curriculum. Over the last few decades, the time allocated for anatomy teaching has reduced significantly with embryology suffering the most compared to other disciplines of anatomy. Consequently, some medical schools around the world have excluded embryology from their curriculum. In this commentary, we evaluate the relevance of embryology in the current medical curriculum including exploring the current state of embryology teaching and learning as well as student perceptions towards embryology.
Barriers of e-Learning Perceptions among University Students and Lecturers during the COVID-19 Crisis: A Cross-sectional Study in Malaysia, 2021
Authors:   Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia, Kyaw Thin Mon ,   Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Manipal University College Malaysia, Melaka, Malaysia, Htay Mila Nu Nu ,   Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Manipal University College Malaysia, Melaka, Malaysia, Marzo Roy Rillera ,   Department of Community Medicine, International Medical School, Management and Science University, Selangor, Malaysia,   Global Public Health, Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Madurai Shantini ,   Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia, Guvendaraju Prethyga ,   Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia, Yan Emily Ting Xiao ,   Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia, Mustaza Syahmy Alim ,   Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cyberjaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: January 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted teaching and learning in a variety of institutions. During the pandemic, e-learning replaced traditional classes to prevent transmission among lecturers/teachers and university students. The study’s main objective was to identify the attitude and barriers to e-learning perceptions among university students and lecturers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia in 2021. The specific objectives were to identify the infrastructure, attitudinal, technical expertise, and human and educational skill barriers to e-learning implementation during the COVID-19 pandemic and to identify significant differences in e-learning perceptions among university students and lecturers. A cross-sectional study collected closed-ended questionnaires from university students and lecturers shared via electronic platforms. The minimum sample size required in this study was 462; 847 respondents (217 were lecturers/teachers and 630 university students) voluntarily participated. Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of the questionnaire of attitudes and barriers and its values was 0.851 and 0.96, respectively. Findings were tabulated with mean scores for the attitudes towards the use of e-learning, and barriers to e-learning included five categories: infrastructure barriers, attitudinal barriers, technical expertise barriers, human barriers, and educational skill barriers. University students and teachers/lecturers did not prefer replacing traditional teaching methods with e-learning as it affects their interaction. Administration, faculty admins, and the department of education should take note of the improvement and the necessary measures that can be applied for effective and better teaching and learning during the lockdown due to COVID-19.
Adolescence Substance Use Prevention Strategies: A Review of Key Interventions
Authors: F.S Ezeruigbo Chinwe
Published: January 2024

The rise in the prevalence of substance use among adolescents has triggered researchers for more studies on substance use and intervention strategies. The aim of the review is to provide a synthesis of effective preventive strategies in the face of multiple and variant literature on adolescent substance use data. A Google Scholar, and PUBMED academic literature published in English from 2012 to 2022 were included. A Google search of Keywords for the search were adolescent, substance use and preventive strategies. The described principles of prevention science provide examples of efficacious preventive interventions. It describes challenges and potential solutions necessary to take efficacious prevention policies and programs. It tends to scale and conclude with recommendations on how to reduce the burden of adolescent substance use mortality and morbidity worldwide through preventive interventions. Effective strategies share common goals with strengthening ‘protective factors,’ such as well-developed social skills, strong family bonds, attachment, active involvement, community, and religious organizations, while reducing ‘risk factors’ that increase vulnerability to substance use. In conclusion, several strategies are positive and effective, while some lack acceptable evidence for interventions. These attributes can help resource-constrained nations mount effective control measures against substance use. Keywords: Adolescence; Intervention; Substance Use; Strategies.
Analysis of Caesarean Delivery in General Hospitals in Sokoto State Using Robson’s Ten Classification: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Adaeze Chukwu Jennifer , O. Egwu Chinedu , Chukwu Chidinma , Atibinye Dotimi Doris
Published: January 2024

Maternal mortality is relatively higher in the northern part of Nigeria. The level of caesarean section (CS) performed in a facility in a locality is an important indicator of access to, and quality of maternal health services in that locality. The Robson classification has been recommended by the World Health Organization as a gold standard for assessing, monitoring, and comparing CS rates at all levels. This was a cross-sectional study across six primary health facilities (General hospitals (GHs) spread across six local government areas in Sokoto state, Northwest Nigeria. Data were collected from medical charts of all women who attended antenatal care/delivered from August - November 2022. The overall CS was calculated, and the women categorized into one of the ten Robson groups. The data showed that the women with the highest frequency of delivery were aged less than 20 (44.98%) followed by those aged 20-34. The CS rate in Sokoto State GHs was 13.56%, a rate relatively higher than the average in sub-Saharan Africa. The data showed that the commonest forms of CS were those in Robson’s Group 1-4, which are categorized as low risk forms of CS, where Group 4 had the highest CS cases (26.62%). Our findings can guide the State Ministry of Health in policy formulation and implementation to improve the maternal and child health in the State. Keywords: Caesarean section, delivery, Robson Classification, Obstetrics, Sokoto Nigeria, primary healthcare.
Prevalence of Social Media Use for Dental Information Among Dental Professionals
Authors: Naik Sachin , Devang Divakar Darshan , Jhugroo Chitra
Published: January 2024

Social media is a powerful tool most used among dental professionals. The present study assessed the prevalence of SM usage for dental information among dental professionals. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among dental professionals Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire consisted of demographic data of study participants and questions to assess the prevalence and type of SM use. Study results showed Twitter (24%), Instagram (19%), and YouTube (18%) are the three most popular SM platforms utilized by dental professionals, respectively. Prevalence of SM use among dental professionals for dental information. Keywords: Dentists, Dental professionals, Descriptive study, Social media, Twitter, YouTube.
Evaluation of a Community-based Intervention to Improve Maternal New-born and Child Health Coverage in the Rural and Hard-to-reach Communities of Adamawa State Nigeria
Authors: Bello Hamman Mohammed , Mohammed Tukur Adamu , Luximon-Ramma Amitabye
Published: January 2024

The healthcare inequities in hard-to-reach (HTR) areas of developing countries, such as Nigeria, have significant implications for disease prevention and control, particularly in maternal and child health. The aim of this study is to look at how well mobile outreach and health facility outreach programs work to improve health outcomes in rural, underserved, and hard-to-reach (HTR) areas in Adamawa State, Nigeria. The focus is on key indicators of maternal, newborn, and child health. The key interventions include antenatal care (ANC), family planning, routine immunization, vitamin A supplementation, deworming of children under 5 years, and Diarrhea treatment. The study applied a cross-sectional design using before-and-after assessments to assess the outcome of the mobile outreach interventions using quantitative health facility-level data from the District Health Information System (DHIS 2.0) on the intervention. Following a successful intervention, the coverage of these indicators prior to and following the intervention was compared using the data. The study shows a cumulative improvement in ANC (21%), institutional delivery (18%), and Penta 3 coverage (28%). Mobile and hard-to-reach strategies utilizing community health workers and volunteers from the LGA, and health facilities can be effective in improving coverage of MNCH services and hold promise for better maternal and child survival in rural, HTR, and under-resourced parts of Adamawa State, Nigeria, and Sub-Saharan Africa at large. In addition, the mobile outreach interventions have contributed to improving MNCH services in hard-to-reach communities, so scaling up the strategy is highly recommended. Keywords: Hard-to-reach, Interventions, Outreach, Communities, Adamawa State, Nigeria.
Control of Hypertension in Pregnant Women in Secondary Health Facilities in Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Adaeze Chukwu Jennifer , Atibinye Dotimi Doris , Ladokun Jennifer , Dogo Esther , O. Egwu Chinedu , Chukwu Chidinma , Tersoo Audu David
Published: January 2024

Hypertension is among the non-communicable diseases that complicate pregnancies in women. Diagnosis and control of this condition are important in reducing the risk of maternal and foetal mortality. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence and control of hypertension among pregnant women visiting secondary health care facilities in four Local Government Areas in Lagos (2) and Abuja (Federal Capital Territory) (2), Nigeria. Our findings showed that there was a high prevalence of hypertension in these facilities (50%). Our finding also revealed that the overall level of control was 30.45%, which decreased with time in the course of the management. The control was highest in the first quarter and lowest in the third (last) quarter. The consistent and appropriate use of antihypertensives is important to prevent the complications associated with non-communicable diseases like hypertension during pregnancy. Healthcare providers should therefore advocate early diagnosis and management of hypertension during pregnancy. Keywords: Control, Hypertension, Non-communicable diseases, Pregnancy, Secondary healthcare.
Endorsement of Spousal Sexual Violence Across Gender: Evidence from Zambia Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Chipalo Edson
Published: January 2024

Spousal sexual violence (SSV) constitutes a pressing public health and human rights crisis, exerting detrimental impacts on women's well-being and imposing significant social and economic costs on their lives. This study aimed to ascertain the comprehensive prevalence of SSV endorsement and investigate the factors associated with such endorsement among both men and women in Zambia. The 2013-2014 Zambia Demographic and Health Survey (ZDHS) served as the dataset for this study. Employing chi-square tests and two multiple logistic regression analyses stratified by gender, the research revealed that 36.6% of women and 11.5% of men endorsed SSV. Regression results highlighted significant associations between SSV endorsement and variables such as resident type, marital status, education level, and frequency of reading newspapers/magazines, cutting across genders. Among women, employment, religion, and frequency of listening to/watching television also emerged as significant factors. Conversely, wealth status and alcohol consumption significantly correlated with SSV endorsement exclusively among men in Zambia. Recognizing the potential of media platforms to shape attitudes, the study recommends leveraging them to disseminate messages discouraging SSV endorsement. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the necessity of involving multiple stakeholders, including religious leaders, traditional leaders, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), to address cultural norms promoting SSV endorsement. The implementation of policies regulating gender-based violence and alcohol becomes imperative in diminishing both the prevalence and tolerance of SSV in Zambia. Finally, this study recommends that future research endeavors delve into men's perspectives on understanding SSV beyond the conventional focus on women victims in Zambia. Keywords: Endorsement, spousal sexual violence, intimate partner violence, gender, media, alcohol, factors, Zambia.
Curcumin Coated Orthosiphon Stamineus Leaf Extract Based Selenium Nanoparticle for Potential Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Priya Veeraraghavan Vishnu , S.B Shanmugam , R Gayathri , Sankaran Kavitha
Published: January 2024

Curcumin is a type of polyphenol phytochemical that is bright yellow in colour and produced by the plant Curcuma longa. Despite its pharmacological properties, curcumin has low bioavailability, poor solubility, and undergoes rapid degradation. Nanoparticles (NPs) are used as a nanocarrier for drug delivery, to improve the stability and pharmacokinetics of the drug. Therefore, by coating curcumin over selenium NPs (SeNPs), the bioactivity, bioavailability, stability, and may increase the solubility of curcumin of SeNPs. This study aimed to synthesize the SeNPs from Orthosiphon stamineus leaf extract and coat it with curcumin and to characterize it and check its biocompatibility. Biosynthesis of SeNPs was carried out using plant extract of Evolvulus alsinoides and characterized using UV spectrophotometer, FT-IR, and SEM. Annexin V PI apoptotic and Hemolytic assay were used for checking biocompatibility. The UV-Vis spectrum gave a strong peak at 265 and 423 nm at various time intervals, indicating the SeNPs formation. Similarly, FT-IR has strong absorption bands at 3279, 1284, 1072, 1028, and cm−1 with wavelengths ranging from 4000-500 cm-1. SEM analysis of biosynthesized SeNPs showed a spherical shape. Our results suggest that curcumin-coated SeNPs possess greater biocompatibility towards PBMCs which was evaluated by Annexin V - PI assay and erythrocytes by hemolytic studies. Curcumin-coated Selenium nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by the biological method using leaf extract of Orthosiphon stamineus and reported as biocompatible using Flow cytometry. But a more detailed study should be done for implementing it in tissue engineering. Keywords: Selenium nanoparticle, Curcumin, Orthosiphon stamineus, Tissue Engineering.
Marsilya’da Kurulan Bir Ermeni Cemiyeti: “Ermeni Vatandaş Cemiyeti”
Authors: ASLAN Taner
Published: January 2024

Mıgırdıç Portugalyan Van’da yürüttüğü menfi faaliyetler sonucu yakalanacağını anlayınca İstanbul’a oradan da Marsilya’ya kaçmıştır. Burada babasından kalan mirasla bir matbaa ve Armenia adında bir gazete çıkartmıştır. Bu matbaa ve gazetede basılan beyannameler ve kitapçıklarla Ermeni halkını Osmanlı Devleti’ne karşı kışkırtarak isyana teşvik ediyordu. Cemiyet ve komite kurmada oldukça mahir olan Portugalyan burada da boş durmayarak Ermeni Vatandaş Cemiyeti’ni kurmuştur. Çalışmada söz konusu cemiyetin nizamnamesi ele alınacaktır.
Effective adsorptive removal of a cationic dye from aqueous solutions using a biosorbent derived from Sargassum sp.
Authors: da Gama Brígida Maria Villar , Silanpää Mika , Selvasembian Rangabhashiyam , Silva Carlos Eduardo de Farias , Meili Lucas
Published: January 2024

The present research evaluated the potential use of the macroalga Sargassum sp., which was modified with filamentous fungus Cunninghamella echinulata for the biosorption of methylene blue (MB) dye. The modified fungal biomass (FERsarg) was obtained through solid-state fermentation of enzyme (alginate lyase). The FERsarg showed a pHPZC of 7.9, a low mass loss, material micro/mesoporous, and the presence of hydroxyl, carboxylic, phenolic, and carbonyl functional groups. The influence of biomass dosage, solution pH, contact time, initial concentration, and temperature were evaluated for MB biosorption, and the best results were obtained at 2 g L-1 and pH 6. The kinetic study revealed a better fit for the pseudo-second-order model, while the Sips model best described the equilibrium experimental data. The equilibrium was reached within 180 min and showed qmax yielding of 115.49 mg g-1 at 323 K. The thermodynamic understanding of the present research revealed that the biosorbent exhibited spontaneous, exothermic, and physical nature for MB removal. The adsorptive mechanism shows that the process was controlled by electrostatic attraction. Also the feasibility of using residual fermented biomass as a potential adsorbent was applied and discussed, contributing to the concept of minimum waste generation, and supporting the concept of circular bioeconomy.
Source reduction and end treatment of acid mine drainage in closed coal mines of the Yudong River Basin
Authors: Wu Quanjia , Li Xiangdong , Feng Qiyan , Li Xibin
Published: January 2024

After the closure of the Yudong coal mine, the pH value was approximately 3.0, and the Fe and Mn concentrations reached 380 and 69 mg/L, respectively, in the acid mine drainage (AMD), causing serious pollution to the water bodies in the nearby watershed. Combined with the formation conditions of AMD, the comprehensive treatment technology of source reduction–end treatment is adopted to treat the AMD. The treatment area of the goaf is 0.3 km3, the filling and grouting volume is about 6.7 m3, and the curtain grouting volume is 4,000 m3. Through the grouting and sealing treatment in the goaf, the water volume is reduced to less than 85% of the initial volume (100 m3/h). After the end treatment, the pH value of the effluent is around 7.0, the content of Fe and Mn is less than 0.1 mg/L, and the removal rate is above 99%. The project was subsequently operated at RMB 0.85 yuan/t. This project is aimed at the treatment of AMD from small coal mines in complex terrain conditions. It has the characteristics of low cost and high efficiency and can provide an effective treatment technology for AMD in southwestern China and areas with the same geological conditions.
Enquanto uns choram outros vendem lenços: indicadores econômico-financeiros das empresas do setor de tecnologia da informação em tempos de incerteza
Authors: Santos Thiago Cardoso Lacerda , Marques Alessandra Vieira Cunha , Miranda Gilberto José
Published: January 2024

Objetivo: O objetivo geral é analisar o comportamento dos indicadores econômico-financeiros das empresas de Tecnologia da Informação (TI) em tempos de Pandemia de COVID-19.
Metodologia: Para analisar o comportamento dos indicadores em um ambiente de incerteza considerou-se os dados dos trimestres de 2018 a 2021, relativos à rentabilidade, liquidez e endividamento das empresas de TI listadas na B3. Para identificar se haviam diferenças estatisticamente significativas nas médias dos indicadores utilizou-se o Teste não paramétrico Mann-Whitney.
Resultados: Os indicadores demostraram que com a Pandemia as empresas tiveram um aumento na sua capacidade financeira de pagamentos no curto e longo prazo, e sinalizou que as empresas retiveram caixa para terem uma melhor performance operacional. Quanto à análise do comportamento das empresas que fizeram IPO (Oferta Pública Inicial), verificou-se que houve diferenças favoráveis estatisticamente significativas nas médias dos indicadores das empresas que emitiram a oferta pública inicial, com destaque para a capacidade de pagamentos de suas obrigações, bem como identificou-se que as empresas que têm adentrado no mercado acionário obtêm maiores retornos sobre o patrimônio líquido, o que também pode sinalizar a possibilidade de gerenciamento de resultados.
Contribuições do Estudo: Este estudo oferece contribuições práticas, explorando um tema emergente de interesse de empresas e cidadãos. Identifica-se o comportamento dos indicadores econômico-financeiros das empresas de TI inclusive das que lançaram IPO’s durante o período de Pandemia de COVID-19. Além disso, explora a lacuna sobre a situação econômico e financeira das empresas de TI que fizeram lançamento de IPO no cenário da Pandemia.
Análise do uso de plataformas, mídias e redes sociais para o ensino no curso de ciências contábeis
Authors: Ribeiro Júlia Maria Gomes , Oliveira Renata Mendes de , Silva Marli Auxiliadora da , Dias Erika Monteiro de Souza Alves
Published: January 2024

Objetivo: Analisar a percepção dos docentes do curso de Ciências Contábeis das universidades federais brasileiras em relação ao uso de plataformas, mídias e redes sociais como ferramentas de apoio no processo de ensino-aprendizagem.
Metodologia: A pesquisa utilizou-se de levantamento para coleta de dados. Um questionário online foi aplicado, por meio do Google Forms, para docentes de cursos de graduação em Ciências Contábeis vinculados a instituições de ensino federais de todas as regiões brasileiras. Foram obtidas 154 respostas válidas de docentes de 31 instituições diferentes. Para análise, adotou-se da técnica de estatística descritiva.
Resultados: Os resultados mostram que a maioria dos docentes utilizam o Whatsapp e Youtube como mídias e redes sociais no processo de ensino-aprendizagem. Quanto as plataformas, a maioria dos respondentes começaram a utilizar em decorrência da pandemia de COVID-19, com destaque para a adoção do Google Meet e Moodle. O uso de plataformas, mídias e redes sociais auxiliam no compartilhamento de materiais de aula, interatividade e rapidez no contato com os discentes. Todavia, há necessidade de capacitação dos docentes para a utilização de tais tecnologias, uma vez que alguns docentes relataram terem dificuldades e pontuam aspectos negativos, tais como problemas de acessibilidade por parte dos discentes.
Contribuições do Estudo: A pesquisa contribui ao confirmar resultados já observados por outras pesquisas realizadas, bem como por oferecer insights em relação ao uso de plataformas, mídias e redes sociais no processo de ensino-aprendizagem. Ademais, a pesquisa propicia o conhecimento acerca da percepção dos docentes quanto ao uso de tais ferramentas, considerando aspectos que englobam dificuldades, facilidades e benefícios da implementação, o que possibilita a avaliação para melhor aplicação e obtenção de resultados favoráveis para as instituições de ensino, docentes e discentes.