bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamics and effectiveness of biomolecules and electron-acceptors in an ecologically engineered wetland – Implications for the design and optimisation
Authors: Hansen Robert Neill , Vuuren Mariette Jansen van , Oberholster Paul
Published: October 2024

In this study redox models were developed for each of the three sample sites to calculate the most effective biomolecule-electron acceptor pairs as a function of pH. The study effectively demonstrated the importance of considering biomolecular substrates available in ecologically engineered wetland systems in conjunction with the specific electron acceptors and redox reaction products in optimising specific wetland functions e.g., denitrification. The study indicated that the pH of the wetland water column and soil pore water is an important factor in controlling which biomolecules are most effectively oxidised by which specific electron donors. The pH intersect point can be calculated and observed on Eh-pH diagrams of the electron acceptors oxidising the various biomolecules input into the model and of biomolecules reducing various electron acceptors input into the model. Wetland water quality monitoring data thus is important in managing ecologically engineered wetlands, so the correct biomolecular substrates are added to optimise specific redox reactions e.g., denitrification. The model also indicated that Fe(OH)3 as an electron acceptor is more or less effective depending on the reaction products of the reaction e.g., magnetite, more effective, or Fe2+, less effective. This observation indicates that the effectiveness of the various redox reaction in ecologically engineered wetland systems may be highly dependent on the specific reaction products that form from these reactions. This implies a foreknowledge of the products that could form in redox reactions in specific engineered wetlands, underlining the importance of geochemical modelling in the design and optimisation of ecologically engineered wetland systems.
Effect of high-purity Ag@ ZnO Core shell nanoparticles synthesized by pulse laser ablation technique: Evaluation of Skin cancer cells
Authors: Khudhair Ali A. , Mazhir Sabah N. , Hammed Mohammed
Published: October 2024

Silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles with a core-shell structure were synthesized using pulsed laser ablation (Nd: YAG laser) in deionized water, a straightforward method requiring minimal lab conditions. The optical properties and energy gap were assessed via UV-visible spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscopy identified the core-shell structure, spherical shape, and size (52 nm). Atomic force microscopy revealed semi-smooth surface roughness, while field emission scanning electron microscopy confirmed a homogeneous surface. X-ray diffraction provided ideal peak patterns for crystal size calculations. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) showed a higher ZnO content compared to Ag, indicating an effective coating of silver by zinc oxide to reduce toxicity. The high purity of the samples (only Ag and ZnO nanoparticles) ensured accurate property determination and biological effect assessment. The study leverages the anti-skin cancer properties of both nanoparticles: Ag nanoparticles, with their small size and large surface area, interact effectively with cancer cells but have high toxicity, which is mitigated by the ZnO coating. ZnO also contributes to anti-cancer activity by generating reactive oxygen species that disrupt cell membranes. Zeta potential analysis indicated a moderate electrostatic equilibrium with a value of -15.2 mV for the core-shell nanoparticles. MTT assay results on A375 skin cancer cell lines confirmed that these nanoparticles are effective at certain concentrations, showing minimal effect on normal cells, suggesting their potential as a drug for skin cancer.
Effectiveness of Prophylactic Bolus Phenylephrine on the Prevention of Postspinal Hypotension During Elective Cesarean Section at Gandhi Memorial Hospital, Ethiopia 2024, Observational Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Soramo Gediwon , Wolde Yisehak , Asrat Yigle , Samuel Sintayehu , Sitot Mulualem , Girma Betelihem
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Spinal anesthesia owing to the perceived advantages is commonly used for caesarean section. However parturient under spinal anesthesia frequently experience hypotension and if it is severe it can result in morbidity for both the mother and the fetus. The incidence of hypotension during spinal anesthesia for caesarean section is reduced by administering intravenous fluids, drugs such as vasopressors, or by leg elevation. But in the practice of anesthesia preventing and treating hypotension associated with spinal anesthesia continue to be a challenging issue and there is controversy about the best way to handle it.
Objective: The objective of this study is to determine the effectiveness of prophylactic bolus phenylephrine on the prevention of post-spinal hypotension during elective caesarean section under spinal anesthesia.
Method: Observational cohort study design was conducted at Gandhi Memorial Hospital located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from February 01, 2024 to May 15, 2024. The sample size was determined by using the double population proportion method using manual calculator. Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software version 27.0 was used for data analyses. Comparison of numerical data between study groups was done by using independent sample t-test for symmetrical data and Mann whitney U test was used to compare non parametrical data. Chi square test was used to compare categorical data of the group. Values are presented as mean SD for symmetric data and median (IQR) for asymmetric data. For categorical data values are presented by number percent. Significance was determined at P value <0.05.
Result: The incidence of hypotension in standard care group was 63.3% but in phenylephrine prophylactic group the incidence of hypotension was 28.6% [N: 105), P: 0.004]. Starting from the induction until 25 th minute, phenylephrine group had higher mean value of systolic and diastolic blood pressure than standard care group (P<0.05). Incidence of nausea, incidence of vomiting, numbers of mothers that require rescue vasopressor and total dose of rescue vasopressor were significantly different between the groups. Heart rate differences between phenylephrine and standard care group were not statistically significant
Conclusion and recommendation: In conclusion, parturient undergoing elective caesarean section experienced less episode of hypotension after spinal anesthesia when a prophylactic bolus phenylephrine was used. Administering 100 microgram of bolus phenylephrine immediately after spinal anesthesia is recommended for better hemodynamic stability of the mothers
Targeting Mevalonate Pathway Enhances the efficacy of 5-Fluorouracil by regulating pyroptosis
Authors: Xing Zongrui , Ma Yong , Jiang Xiangyan , Qing Huiguo , Wu Yuxia , Che Shengfu , Gao Zhongti , Wang Keshen , Wang Tao , He Qichen , Li Zhigang , Zhao Bin , Liu Wenbo , Sun Haonan , Yu Zeyuan
Published: October 2024

The 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)-based chemotherapy regimen is a primary strategy for treating pancreatic cancer (PC).However, challenges related to 5-FU resistance persist. Investigating the mechanisms of 5-FU resistance and identifying a clinically viable therapeutic strategy are crucial for improving the prognosis of PC. Here, through clinical samples analysis, we found that the expression of 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR),the rate-limiting enzyme in mevalonate metabolism, is negatively correlated with the efficacy of 5-FU treatment. There is a significant correlation between HMGCR and the pyroptosis marker Gasdermin D (GSDMD),and the HMGCR inhibitor simvastatin can significantly inhibit the activation of pyroptosis signaling. The exogenous addition of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP),a key metabolite of the mevalonate pathway, can significantly reduce sensitivity to 5-FU,and simvastatin combined with 5-FU demonstrates a strong synergistic effect. Furthermore, in organoid models and genetically engineered mice with spontaneous PC, the combination of simvastatin and 5-FU significantly inhibits tumor growth. In conclusion, our study reveals the critical role of the mevalonate pathway in 5-FU resistance and proposes a clinically feasible combination therapy strategy.
Behavior of Intumescent Paints Protecting Steel Beams in Case of Natural Fires
Authors: Quintão Marcus , Rodrigues João Paulo Correia
Published: October 2024

This article presents the results of an experimental investigation aimed at optimizing the performance of intumescent paintings in fire protection of steel beams. The research focuses on understanding the behavior and effectiveness of intumescent paintings when subjected to natural fires. The objective of the study was to determine various aspects regarding the performance of load-bearing steel beams protected with intumescent paintings exposed to a natural fire. Thus, natural fire resistance tests on steel beams with three different cross-sections, protected with a dry thickness of intumescent film for a required fire resistance time of 60 minutes, were conducted. The materials used in the specimens had their mechanical and physical properties characterized. These tests helped in understanding the expansive behavior of intumescent paintings in natural fires similar to those occurring in building’ fires. Temperatures of the protected surface and the fire were measured, along with displacements of the beams. By examining critical factors affecting protective capabilities, this study aims to contribute to the development of more robust fire protection solutions for steel structures. In this research it is concluded that the expansion process of the intumescent paint, even in case of natural fire, depends on the shape of the cross-section and the heating curve. The corners of the profile cross-section are the weak points of the intumescent paint expansion process. It was also demonstrated the possibility of adapting the formula for calculating the temperature evolution in profiles for non-reactive protection materials to intumescent paints.
1,4 Dioxane - Methanol Complexation: Quantum chemical calculations and Topological analysis
Authors: Sahana R. , Shanmugam R. , Latha S. , Ramya K. , Elangovan A. , Arivazhagan G.
Published: October 2024

Hydrogen bonded complexes between 1,4 Dioxane in its three conformers with Methanol multimers up to tetramer have been investigated theoretically using Frontier Molecular Orbital, Reduced Density Gradient Isosurface, Electrostatic potential and Atoms in molecules theory analyses. A clear distinguished features between homomolecular and heteromolecular hydrogen bonds along with classical and non-classical hydrogen bonds is observed. Using HOMO-LUMO energy gap, the stability is reported. Atoms in Molecule theoretical analyses show the presence of bond critical point in hydrogen bonds and thus the mutual penetration of those respective atoms is studied. The electron density 𝜌(𝑟), Laplacian of electron density ∇2𝜌(𝑟), were found to exceed the proposed range of literature values in some cases. The local reactivity descriptor namely Fukui and dual descriptor of the molecules were also reported. Hydrogen bond parameter which governs the hydrogen bond were calculated using Vander walls radii of acceptor and donor atoms which are participating in hydrogen bonds. Stability and strength of multimers obeys well in all analyses.
Willingness to Accept "U=U" Among People Living with HIV in Southwest China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zheng Yu , Xie Longsheng , Zhou Xiping , Wei Wei , Liu Yubei , Tian Min , Tang Jian , Chen Yanhua
Published: October 2024

Background
"U = U" is an exciting fact that people living with HIV(PLWH) on regulated antiretroviral therapy and achieve an undetectable viral load, it will have no risk of sexually transmitting HIV to their negative partners. Nowadays, it has been widely promoted allover the world. While this policy was not well known to the public and PLHIV in China.
Objective
This study aims to understand the willingness to accept "U = U" among PLWH and to analyze its influencing factors.
Methods
A cross-sectional study among 307 PLWH who were receiving antiretroviral therapy was conducted in southwest China from May to September 2022 to assess their willingness to accept "U = U". The survey included demographic of the respondents, the awareness, and attitude of "U = U", behaviors characteristics of "U = U", and the willingness of participants to accept "U = U". The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, univariate and multivariate logistic regression.
Results
The proportion of PLWH who were willing to accept "U = U" was 78.5%, with 30% reporting that they had already heard of "U = U". The majority of participants were confident that they would be able to take their medication as prescribed (94.1%), believed the promotion of "U = U" would encourage them to stay on ART (85.0%), and agreed that "U = U" was scientific (70.0%). 30% of the participants actively asked for their viral load results, and only 18.9% paid for viral load tests. Factors associated with willingness to accept "U = U" among PLWH included the knowledge of effective viral load suppression (OR: 2.613, 95%CI: 1.129,6.047, p < 0.05), and perceived the scientific of "U = U" (OR:7.124, 95%CI:3.225,15.735, p < 0.001).
Conclusions
The willingness to accept "U = U" among PLWH was high, which is favorable for the promotion of "U = U" in the region. The awareness, attitude, and behavior of "U = U" are worth focusing on, and there is a need for improving the knowledge of effective viral load suppression and perception of the scientific of "U = U" to increase the acceptance of "U = U".
Effect Of 808 nm Diode Laser Hair Removal in Mild to Moderate Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Authors: Özdemir Ahmet Kağan , Tamer Emine
Published: October 2024

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, recurrent inflammatory disease characterized by painful lesions such as nodules, abscesses, and sinus tracts, primarily affecting intertriginous areas. Traditional treatments range from antibiotics and hormonal therapies to biologics and surgical options. Recently, laser hair removal (LHR) has gained attention as a non-systemic treatment for HS, targeting hair follicles to potentially alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. This study evaluated the effectiveness of 808-nm Diode LHR in managing HS by retrospectively analyzing the outcomes of 16 patients (13 men, 3 women) aged 23-61. Patients had not received systemic treatment in the three months preceding or during the LHR and had undergone between two and four sessions of LHR between January 2019 and December 2020. Key outcome measures included the Modified Hidradenitis Suppurativa Score (MHSS), Hidradenitis Suppurativa Physician’s Global Assessment (HS-PGA), Hidradenitis Suppurativa Clinical Response (HiSCR), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Results indicated a significant reduction in MHSS from a median of 20.0 before treatment to 9.0 at six months (p=0.001). The HS-PGA score also significantly decreased from a median of 3.0 to 2.0 (p=0.012). Of the 10 patients evaluated for HiSCR, 8 showed a positive response. DLQI scores improved from a median of 4.5 to 1.0 (p=0.002). The treatment was well-tolerated, with only mild pain reported and no severe adverse events. In conclusion, 808-nm Diode LHR appears to be an effective treatment for reducing disease severity and enhancing quality of life in HS patients. These findings suggest that Diode LHR could be a valuable addition to current HS management strategies. Further research is needed to validate these results and explore long-term benefits.
Are Low and Middle-Income Country Universities “AI Resilient”: Exploring the Use of ChatGPT among Medicine and Health Sciences Students in Rwanda.
Authors: NUMVIYUMUKIZA Etienne , NIYONSENGA Japhet , NIYIBIZI Jean Berchmans , Jansen Stefan
Published: October 2024

Introduction
ChatGPT, launched in 2022, has rapidly become a popular AI tool used in academia and professional settings. This study explores its use, perceived strengths and weakness, perceived benefits and risks, and future potential among students in the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at the University of Rwanda, particularly focusing on its implications for education in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).
Methods
A qualitative study was conducted using in-depth structured interviews with 30 purposively selected students during the United for Health Days 2023. Participants who had used ChatGPT were employed. Interviews were transcribed, translated, and analyzed using thematic analysis.
Results
ChatGPT was primarily used for academic assignments, professional growth, and extracurricular activities. It was highly effective for literature reviews and class assignments but less useful for tasks requiring advanced technical skills like scientific computing or clinical case analysis. Major benefits were increased productivity, ease of use, and 24/7 availability. Risks included overreliance on the tool, potential reduction in critical thinking, ethical concerns regarding academic integrity, and accuracy limitations. Recommendations included improving data accuracy, developing AI-related policies, and offering training to users.
Conclusion
As AI technologies like ChatGPT transform education, LMICs face unique challenges in adapting their systems. This study underscores the risk of widening educational disparities between LMICs and High-Income Countries (HICs), emphasizing the urgent need to develop AI resilience in LMIC universities. Strengthening AI integration and policy frameworks will be key to ensuring equitable and competitive education in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
Reasons for delays in start of first elective case of the day at Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital: a prospective study.
Authors: Manganyi Rixongile Style , Nkuna Amanda , Fening Nana Yaa
Published: October 2024

Background
First case start time measures operating theatre and patient readiness, and it may contribute to perioperative delays. Improving the first case start time is associated with higher theatre productivity. The aim of this study was to determine the first elective case start time and identify reasons for delays at Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, a multidisciplinary tertiary theatre complex.
Method
A prospective observational study was conducted on all first elective cases of the day from June to August 2023. Times and reasons for delays in patient flow were documented, starting from theatre arrival until the beginning of the procedure. The times were analysed in relation to the departmental protocol for first case start times. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. All the statistical analyses were performed via Stata 15 (StataCorp, USA).
Results
A delay prevalence of 97.5% was reported, with only 10 cases having started on time. The mean delay time was 47.5 minutes (IQR 33–85), and the standard deviation was 53.2. The most frequent reasons for delays were surgeon-related factors accounting for 23.7%, followed by logistics-related factors accounting for 17.7%. Most of these causative factors are preventable.
Conclusion
A majority of the first cases at CMJAH are delayed and the reasons for delays are multifactorial, but preventable. Multiple strategies can be employed to mitigate the causes of delays, thus improving theatre utilisation and saving costs.
Enhancing Sustainability in Food Systems through University-Community Partnerships
Authors: Rojas Fernando , González-Hidalgo Catalina , Sepúlveda Silvia , Beyer María Paz , Bastías Rossana , Escobar Marcela , Vergara Carlos
Published: October 2024

This study explores the potential of university-community part- nerships to enhance sustainability in food systems, focusing on the development of sustainability labels in Chile. The initiative classifies foods into high, medium, and low sustainability categories based on factors such as water footprint, carbon footprint, packaging material, and processing level (using the NOVA classification). The research involved focus groups with experts to define key sustainability dimen- sions, the construction of a food database, and the calculation of sus- tainability scores through a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making approach. A predictive classification function was developed using discriminant analysis. Key findings indicate that water and carbon footprints are the most significant factors in determining food sustainability. The pre- dictive model demonstrated a high accuracy rate, correctly classifying 94% of foods. While the study provides a valuable framework for pol- icymakers and stakeholders to promote sustainable food products, its focus on Chile and reliance on the NOVA system may limit the gen- eralizability of its findings. Future research should explore alternative metrics and broader geographic contexts. This research underscores the importance of minimizing environ- mental impacts and the role of universities in promoting sustainability through collaboration with local communities, offering a practical tool for policy and consumer decision-making.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THERMOPLASTIC POLYMER DENTURE BASE MATERIALS FOR PROSTHODONTIC CONSTRUCTIONS
Authors: Poliukhovych Yuliia , Demkovych Andrii , Bondarenko Yurii
Published: October 2024

Introduction. In dentistry, there is a wide range of thermoplastic polymers for the removable constructions of dental prostheses, which are extremely promising in modern dental practice. Successful prosthetics of patients will depend on the properties of the selected structural materials.. Purpose of the study was to summarize current information, based on a review of literary sources, on the use of thermoplastic base materials for the manufacture of removable prostheses and improves the effectiveness of orthopedic treatment of patients with complete or partial absence of teeth.
Methods. A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, Google Scholar up to January 2024. There was no restriction on the date of publication or language. Searches using the MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) terms were conducted using synonyms and combinations of the following search terms: "removable prosthetics", "dental base materials", "thermoplastics" "materials science", and "adaptation". Used methods: bibliographic and analytical.
Results. Thermoplastic materials are characterized by bioinertness for the organism, because they do not contain residual monomer. The technology of injection molding of thermoplastic polymers is considered as a promising technology in modern dentistry to achieve high aesthetic standards. The general characteristic of this group of materials is the absence of residual monomer and, accordingly, their biological indifference, a high level of plasticity, precision during the manufacture of the prosthesis, and a wide range of colours.
Conclusion. Polymer denture base plastics do not have optimal physico-mechanical, biological and surface characteristics, so the search for new materials for the manufacture of removable prostheses remains a promising direction
Efficiency Investigation of Coffee Production Waste Drying by Filtration Method
Authors: Ivashchuk Oleksandr , Atamanyuk Volodymyr , Chyzhovych Roman
Published: October 2024

This article presents the results of determining the technologically feasible parameters of filtration drying of coffee production waste based on experimental data on the kinetics of material drying and the hydrodynamics of thermal agent filtration. The lowest total energy costs were observed with the following process parameters: the material layer height of 120 mm, the thermal agent temperature of 90 °C, the velocity through the stationary layer of 1.76 m/s, and the specific energy consumption of 5857 kJ per 1 kg of water. Based on the determined technologically feasible process parameters, an evaluation of the filtration drying method for coffee production waste was performed at an industrial installation. According to the calculation, using the filtration method, 1164 kW h of energy was required to dry about 1000 kg of coffee production waste. A total energy of about 1.65 kW h/kg was required to remove 1 kg of moisture from the material in an industrial filtration drying installation. The results were compared with a drying material with similar initial parameters. It was calculated that to dry 1000 kg of coffee production waste in a rotary dryer, it is necessary to spend about 1625 kW h, and the total energy consumption for removing 1 kg moisture from the studied material is approximately 2.37 kW h/kg. Thus, for a similar output of about 1000 kg/h, filtration drying can reduce energy consumption by about 465 kW·h and reduce the required drying time by more than 20 times. The overall economic effect of using the filtration drying method in industry is expected to be higher, given the significant heat losses to the environment for a rotary dryer due to its large size, long drying time, design features, and the need for energy-intensive auxiliary equipment. After calculating the energy consumption per 1 kg of dry material, it is necessary to spend 12 950 kJ/kg of dry matter, about 41.5 % less than the higher calorific value for experimental samples of briquetted solid fuel made from this material. This result makes it economically feasible to further dry coffee production waste to produce alternative solid fuels.
Food Poisonings at Hotels, Tripadvisor Reviews in Türkiye
Authors: FIRAT Mehmet Çağlar , ŞEN Necibe
Published: October 2024

Tourists travel long distances and visit attractive destinations. Problems that may occur in these destinations may affect visit preferences. Food poisoning is one of the health problems that may encounter during their holidays, which will create negative memories about their holidays. In this study, comments about food poisoning cases made by foreign tourists visiting Türkiye were examined. In this way, the points to be taken into consideration for hotels to avoid food poisoning cases will be revealed. Tourist comments on the Tripadvisor website constitute the examination area of the study. The study covers comments made between 2012 and 2022. The study is a qualitative research and 731 comments containing the concept of "food poisoning" on Tripadvisor were subjected to text/content analysis to obtain the data set. After the analysis, themes and categories associated with the subject of "food poisoning" were determined. The themes of these categories are “food safety, illness, staff attitude, feelings, cause and vulnerable”. Accommodation business managers should pay attention to these issues in order to reduce food poisoning complaints and prevent the formation of a negative image.
Integrated Micro-Destination: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: ÇOLAKOĞLU Fatih , KÖROĞLU Ahmet
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this research is to develop a different perspective on the classification of the concept of destination, which is one of the important components of the tourism sector, by introducing the concept of 'integrated micro-destination' and evaluating its importance for the tourism sector, especially concerning destinations. In the study, the concept of destination is first defined, and a new concept is developed from a marketing and competitiveness perspective based on the geographical and size criteria used in destination classifications. The theoretical framework of destination classifications is examined, and it is observed in the literature review that the overall competitiveness of a holistic macro-destination is influenced by the competitiveness within its various micro-destinations. The factors affecting the integrated micro destination concept were evaluated from both the prosody and consumer perspectives.
Turizm Çalışanlarının Örgütsel Adalet Algısının Örgütsel Bağlılık ve İşgören Performansı Üzerine Etkisi (The Effect of Tourısm Employees Organizational Justice Perception on Organizational Commitment and Employee Performance)
Authors: ÖZTOPRAK Menekşe
Published: October 2024

Bu çalışmanın amacı, turizm sektöründe görev yapan işgörenlerin örgütsel adalet algılarının örgütsel bağlılık ve performansları üzerine etkilerinin ölçülmesidir. Araştırmada, nicel bir araştırma yöntemi olan ilişkisel tarama modeli kullanılmıştır. Ankara ilinde turizm sektöründe görev yapan çalışanlara hazırlanan anketler, kolayda örnekleme yöntemi ile e-posta, WhatsApp ve Instagram yoluyla gönderilmiştir. Cevaplanan 412 anket araştırmanın örneklemini oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmada örneklem grubuna, örgütsel adalet algısı, örgütsel bağlılık ve işgören performans ölçeğini içeren anketler uygulanmıştır. Araştırma için oluşturulan hipotezlerin test edilmesinde SPSS.27 istatistiksel paket programından yararlanılmıştır. Araştırmada frekans dağılımlarına, ortalamalara bakılmış, korelasyon, regresyon, t-testi ve anova analizleri yapılmıştır. Araştırma bulgularına göre, çalışanların örgütsel adalet algıları ile örgütsel bağlılık ve işgören performansı arasında anlamlı ve pozitif yönlü bir ilişkinin olduğu, ayrıca regresyon analizinde de işgörenlerin örgütsel adalet algılarının; örgütsel bağlılıklarına %40, performansları üzerine ise %3’lük bir etkisi olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
Covıd-19 Krizi ve Makroekonomik Göstergelerin Türkiye Turizm Talebine Yansımaları: Yapısal Var Modeli (Reflections of Covid-19 Crisis and Macroeconomic Indicators on Tourism Demand in Türkiye: Structural VAR Model)
Authors: ÇAVUŞ Muhammet Nimet
Published: October 2024

Bu çalışmada Türkiye özelinde turizm talebinin belirleyicilerinin neler olduğunun araştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Bu amaçla literatür çerçevesinde ekonometrik model oluşturulmuştur. Oluşturulan modelde bağımlı değişken Türkiye’ye gelen turist sayısı, bağımsız değişkenler ise; reel efektif döviz kuru, petrol fiyatları, tüketici fiyat endeksi ve Covid-19 salgını kukla değişkendir. Araştırmada öncelikle ADF ve PP birim kök testleri uygulanmış ve değişkenlerin birinci farklarında durağan oldukları tespit edilmiştir. Modeldeki değişkenlerin şoklar karşısında verdikleri tepkileri belirleyebilmek için Yapısal VAR (SVAR) Modeli uzun dönem çarpan matrisi ile incelenmiş, ardından etki-tepki analizi ve varyans ayrıştırması uygulanmıştır. Araştırma sonucunda, Türkiye turizm talebine verilen bir standart sapmalık şokun kendisi üzerinde 3. aya kadar azalarak pozitif yönde tepki verdiği ve 3. aydan sonra şokun etkisinin sönümlendiği görülmektedir. Petrol fiyatlarındaki, reel efektif döviz kurundaki, tüketici fiyat endeksindeki pozitif bir şokun Türkiye’ye gelen turist sayısını başlangıçta azalttığı tespit edilmiştir. Covid-19 salgınına ilişkin şokun ise, Türkiye’ye gelen turist sayısını negatif yönde etkilediği belirlenmiştir.
From trauma to growth: A mixed-methods analysis of psychological factors in women’s experiences of temporary marriage
Authors: Casmini Casmini , Musthofa Musthofa , Saptoni Saptoni , Anwar Moh. Khoerul , Abubakar Lugazo
Published: October 2024

Temporary marriage is not only about surviving the trauma and crisis but also offers the potential to emerge from difficulties due to its ability to provide meaning from past events. This study aims to measure the level of meaning in the life of female victims of temporary marriage in Singkawang, Indonesia, by exploring their experiences as an optimization to generate positive effects on their lives. Employing a mixed-methods approach that integrates qualitative and quantitative methodologies, the research utilizes an inventory technique to investigate the meanings of life experienced by ten respondents. Additionally, in-depth interviews were conducted with five women who had been impacted by temporary marriage in order to delve into their pursuit of a meaningful life, all of whom consented to the intervention. The findings indicate that women often find themselves as victims of temporary marriage at a middle economic level. The pursuit of a purpose in life emerged as a primary concern, surpassing other factors such as spirituality, self-acceptance, materialism, and problem-solving in the quest for life’s meaning. This situation is often hindered by psychological trauma stemming from challenges encountered within the context of temporary marriage. Through introspection and self-acceptance, individuals embarked on a journey of personal growth, gaining insights and heightened awareness that could serve as a form of intervention through social connection, prayer, close relationships, positive behaviors, experiences, and self-motivation. This research provides an understanding of the fact that difficulties or problems in life can have positive implications by motivating the desire to grow from the temporary marriage experience.
Apresentação
Authors: Martins Rand Randall
Published: October 2024

Os autores apresentam aspectos básicos da anatomia do tubo digestório e fundamentam a etiologia da DRGE, destacando medidas farmacológicas e não farmacológicas que podem ser úteis no tratamento da doença.
Researching the publishing activities of independence activist Park Yong Man : The Americas and Hawaii in the 1910s and Beijing, China in the 1920s.
Authors:   The Korean Publishing Science Society, Cho Jung Mi , Han Ae Ra
Published: October 2024

This study aims to analyze the meaning of the six books published by independence activist Park Yong-man from 1911 to 1927 after his arrival in the United States in 1905, as well as the publishing process and activities. To this end, the publication circumstances of the six books published were investigated based on the covers, copyrights, and prefaces, and the editing and production methods of the books were analyzed. In addition, related materials were analyzed to identify the context and meaning surrounding Park Yong-man’s publishing activities. The results of the analysis are as follows. First, Park Yong-man made efforts to find the optimal method that suited the purpose and characteristics of the books in the time, space, and technological environments of the United States and China in the 1910s and 1920s. As a result, the characteristics of his publishing activities became differentiated depending on the time and place. Second, Park Yong-man’s publishing activities expanded beyond the role of an “author” to that of a “publisher,” and his social network with independence movement organizations and figures played an important role. Third, Park Yong-man’s publishing activities were a ‘socio-cultural activity and independence movement’ that overcame the many difficulties experienced by overseas Koreans during the Japanese colonial period in a political, social, and technological environment with high complexity and changing characteristics.
Feedback múltiplo em tarefas escritas realizadas por aprendentes chineses – Retenção
Authors: Gonçalves Liliana
Published: October 2024

Neste trabalho, descrevemos não só as diversas formas de dar feedback aos aprendentes, neste caso chineses, após a realização de uma tarefa escrita, mas também o processo que adotámos para tornar o trabalho de correção mais eficiente e eficaz. Assim, na parte mais teórica deste estudo, abordamos o feedback dado pelos pares (colegas de turma) e o feedback que envolve o docente, não só escrito (direto e indireto), mas também face a face. Na parte prática deste trabalho, analisáamos como o ‘método’ de correção e de reescrita adotado torna o processo mais reflexivo e ponderado, verificando-se não só o melhoramento dos textos, mas também a retenção de aspetos compreendidos e corrigidos, ainda que essa retenção não seja total na maioria dos casos.
Novas políticas linguísticas e aquisição de competências plurilingues profissionais aplicadas ao ensino de sinofalantes
Authors: Martins Susana Duarte
Published: October 2024

A mobilidade estudantil e o investimento económico dos empresários chineses em Portugal têm vindo a refletir-se no interesse pelo estudo da língua portuguesa por sinofalantes. Perante esta realidade, pretendemos demonstrar como as relações económicas entre a China e Portugal podem ser fortalecidas através da aposta no desenvolvimento de competências linguísticas orientadas para os contextos profissional e académico. Partindo do enquadramento das políticas de língua europeias e portuguesas, mediante a análise dos principais documentos orientadores, concebidos a partir do Quadro Europeu Comum de Referência para as Línguas, demonstraremos a necessidade de uma resposta mais adequada em termos de políticas linguísticas às necessidades de aprendizagem do português por parte dos estudantes e profissionais estrangeiros, manifestada pela ausência de referenciais para o ensino de línguas no ensino superior e pela falta de visibilidade da língua para fins específicos nestes documentos. Considerando as questões da abordagem intercultural (Byram & Morgan1994) e da análise de necessidades nas línguas para fins específicos(Munby 1978),discutem-se as repercussões que podem advir de modelos relacionais e negociais distintos, com especial ênfase para os contextos empresariais chinês e português, sustentados por estudos realizados no âmbito da comunicação e da gestão intercultural (Finuras 2018). Sendo no contexto da gestão intercultural que contactamos com códigos de conduta e de valores de diferentes povos colocados em relação, apontamos esta como uma via importante para o reforço dos programas de português para fins específicos orientados para os negócios, que deverão ter os elementos lexiculturais (Galisson 1987)sempre presentes.
Sistema temporo-aspetual: Um estudo comparativo entre Português europeu e Mandarim
Authors: Yang Aoran
Published: October 2024

Sendo os dois parâmetros distintos, o tempo e o aspeto podem ser codificados em diferentes formas entre línguas humanas, bem como as relações internas subjacentes a estas duas categorias. Este artigo apresenta uma análise descritiva dos sistemas temporo-aspetuais do Português Europeu (PE) e do Mandarim, tendo como objetivo detetar algumas diferenças e semelhanças entre as duas línguas a este respeito. O estudo demostra que, apesar de existirem várias diferenças notáveis, ainda se destacam certas semelhanças entre o PE e o Mandarim relativamente a como se veiculam as informações temporais e aspetuais, especialmente no que se referem ao uso de adjuntos adverbiais e à expressão dos valores de perfetividade e de imperfetividade.
Adaptação acentual de empréstimos Japoneses em Português Brasileiro
Authors: Agostinho Ana Lívia , Richter Lara
Published: October 2024

Este artigo investiga a adaptação de acento de empréstimos de origem japonesa no português brasileiro. A partir de um corpus lexical composto por empréstimos, observou-se como ocorre a adaptação acentual através de dados de fala gravados no bairro da Liberdade, em São Paulo, Brasil, com o objetivo de comparar a produção de falantes de português brasileiro descendentes e não descendentes de japoneses. A partir da análise dos dados, concluiu-se que o acento oxítono é produtivo no português brasileiro, uma vez que está presente em 49% dos dados de fala de falantes de ascendência não japonesa, e em 52% de falantes de ascendência japonesa. Além disso, 67% dos dados de fala que não possuem sílaba pesada final em japonês foram adaptados com acento final. Também foi observado que há uma tendência para que vogais longas do japonês sejam adaptadas para o português brasileiro como sílabas acentuadas por conta da duração, enquanto o pitch-accent do japonês não é reconhecido ou reproduzido neste processo de adaptação.
Descriptive Study of Government Expenditure & Poverty Reduction in South Halmahera, Indonesia (Maqashid Sharia Approach)
Authors: Inat Fathy , Fadly Fadly , Abubakar Idrus , Rusdin Firman
Published: October 2024

AbstractGovernment intervention plays an important role in reducing poverty in South Halmahera as an antithesis to when market mechanisms fail to distribute wealth. From the Islamic public finance perspective, the ulil-amri (the government) plays a central role in managing public budget and is subject to the sharia value system. This research descriptively explores how the SH government manages its expenditure side for poverty alleviation and tries to conceptualize direct spending using the 2019 APBD(The Regional Revenue and Expenditure Budget) sample with the maqashid sharia approach. The results show that government spending brings benefits to the poor, but unfortunately an increase in spending does not always reduce poverty. During the COVID-19 pandemic, budget refocusing was quite successful in reducing poverty. Meanwhile, the expenditure allocation according to the maqashid sharia indicator has reached 69% of the total direct expenditure, although the expenditure allocation for religious protection received the smallest portion, 0.42%. Keywords:Poverty, Government Expenditure, Budget Refocusing, Maqashid Sharia
Do Information Technology and Human Resources Create Business Performance? The Role of Consumer Preferences
Authors: Almaududi Ausat Abu Muna , Judijanto Loso , Ayesha Ivonne , Rijal Syamsu , Saranani Fajar
Published: October 2024

AbstractInformation technology is now a key pillar in an organization's business strategy to achieve optimal profits. Consumer changes and preferences play a central role in the development and adjustment of information technology to meet fluctuating market demands. The success of achieving the company's vision and mission is highly dependent on human resources who excel in the IT field. This research aims to review the importance of IT and HR in achieving the ideal vision and mission that has been planned. This research focuses on descriptive qualitative research that explores previous studies on IT, HR, consumer change, preferences, and business performance. Relevant data surrounding these variables were collected, summarized, and analyzed. The results confirmed that IT and HR play a crucial role in improving business performance. These factors must be combined holistically to achieve competitive advantage and sustainable long-term business performance, especially in the face of dynamic consumer changes and preferences. Keywords: IT, HR, business performance, consumer preferences
The Use of Social Media and its Impact on Enhancing Dental Care and Practice Among Dental Professionals (Preprint)
Authors: Acosta Joseph Macadaeg , Detsomboonrat Palinee , Pisarnturakit Pagaporn Pantuwadee , Urwannachotima Nipaporn
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

As digitalization continues to advance globally, the healthcare sector, including dental practice, increasingly recognizes social media as a vital tool for healthcare promotion, patient recruitment, marketing, and communication strategies.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the use of social media and assess its impact on enhancing dental care and practice among dental professionals in the Philippines.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among dental practitioners in the Philippines. The study utilized a 23-item questionnaire, which included five questions on dentists’ background and demographic information and eighteen questions regarding the use, frequency, and purpose of social media in patient advising and quality of care improvement. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, with frequency distributions and chi-square tests to assess the association between social media use and demographic variables and its impact on dental practice.

RESULTS

Of the 265 participants, the majority were female (77%), aged 20-30 years (54.7%), general practitioners (98.1%), working in private practice (90.6%), and with less than 5 years of clinical experience (58.5%). Social media was used by 67.5% of the participants in their profession. Facebook was the most commonly used platform (67.5%). The primary purpose of social media use was oral health promotion and education (72.1%), followed by connecting and communicating with patients, friends, and family (62.3%), marketing and advertising (56.6%), and exchanging opinions and views with colleagues (42.6%). Among those who used social media, 53.6% reported improvements in their dental practice, and 64.2% noted improvements in the quality of care delivered to patients.

CONCLUSIONS

General practitioners primarily use social media for oral health promotion and education in their dental practice. Social media plays a crucial role in enhancing dental care and practice among dental professionals, serving as a vital tool in improving knowledge sharing, patient engagement, and professional networking. This has significantly contributed to the overall advancement of the dental field.
Enhancing Smoking Gesture Recognition: A Robust Cross-Platform Solution with Sense2Quit (Preprint)
Authors: Das Anarghya , Feng Juntao , Brin Maeve , Cioe Patricia , Schnall Rebecca , Huang Ming-Chun , Xu Wenyao
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

The Sense2Quit study introduces innovative advancements in smoking cessation technology by developing a comprehensive mobile application (app) that integrates with smartwatches to provide real-time interventions for people living with HIV (PWH) who are attempting to quit smoking

OBJECTIVE

To develop an accurate smoking cessation app that utilizes everyday smartwatches and an AI model to enhance the recognition of smoking gestures by effectively addressing confounding hand gestures that mimic smoking, thereby reducing false positives. The app ensures seamless usability across Android and iOS platforms, with optimized communication and synchronization between devices for real-time monitoring.

METHODS

The Sense2Quit system utilizes a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) model specifically trained to distinguish smoking gestures from similar hand-to-mouth activities. By incorporating confounding gestures into the model's training process, the system achieves high accuracy while maintaining efficiency on mobile devices. To validate the model, 30 participants, all PWH who smoked cigarettes, were recruited. Participants wore smartwatches on their wrists and performed various hand-to-mouth activities, including smoking and other gestures like eating and drinking. Each participant spent 15 to 30 minutes completing the tasks, with each gesture lasting 5 seconds. The app was developed using the Flutter framework to ensure seamless functionality across Android and iOS platforms, with robust synchronization between the smartwatch and smartphone for real-time monitoring.

RESULTS

The CNN model achieved an F1 score of 97.52% in detecting smoking gestures, effectively differentiating between smoking and 15 other daily hand-to-mouth activities, such as eating, drinking, and yawning. The cross-platform app, developed using Flutter, demonstrated consistent performance across Android and iOS devices, with only a 0.02-point difference in user experience ratings between the platforms (iOS: 4.52, Android: 4.5). The app’s continuous synchronization ensures accurate, real-time tracking of smoking behaviors, enhancing the system’s overall utility for smoking cessation.

CONCLUSIONS

Sense2Quit represents a significant advancement in smoking cessation technology. It delivers timely, just-in-time interventions through innovations in cross-platform communication optimization and the effective recognition of confounding hand gestures. These improvements enhance the accuracy and accessibility of real-time smoking detection, making Sense2Quit a valuable tool for supporting long-term cessation efforts among PWH trying to quit smoking.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/49558