bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring experiences of sexual behavior practices among adolescent girls and young women in higher learning institutions in Tanzania; A qualitative study
Authors: Mwalukunga Lusajo J. , Moshi Fabiola V. , Kibusi Stephen M.
Published: May 2024

Background
Sexual behaviors among young adults, particularly those aged 15–24, have an increased susceptibility to sexually transmitted infections, HIV, and unintended pregnancies. This vulnerability is heightened among students in Higher Learning Institutions due to factors like reduced parental oversight, transient lifestyles, and peak sexual activity years. Research indicates that, despite awareness, contextual influences like economic coercion and peer pressure hinder healthy behavior adoption. This population group faces challenges due to newfound autonomy, diverse social environments, and sexual activity.
Methods
A qualitative descriptive study explored the experiences of sexual behavior practices among adolescent girls and young women from two universities in Dodoma. Data were collected using in-depth interviews with 13 participants aged 19 to 24 years. Thematic analysis was done to identify themes and sub-themes.
Results
Nine sub-themes were identified, such as consensual first sexual experience, traumatic first sexual experience, consistent condom use, communication challenges regarding condom use, abortion, and reproductive health, casual sexual relationships and encounters, transactional sexual relationships, sex under the influence of alcohol, and sexual risky behavior in nightlife. Five themes, namely contrast sexual debut, condom use communication, sexual and reproductive health challenges, non-committal sexual practices, and inebriated promiscuity, were then derived.
Conclusion
The study’s findings emphasize the importance of comprehensive sexual education programs in higher learning institutions in lower and middle-income countries. It advocates for improved access to sexual and reproductive health services and peer support. It also highlights the need for reinforced policies against sexual coercion and harassment and sustained research on sexual behaviors among Adolescent Girls and Young Women.
Renalase Levels are Decreased in Maternal Blood and Placental Tissues in Pregnancies Associated with Preterm Preeclampsia
Authors: Soliman* Youstina , Eke* Chino , Guo Xiaojia , Wang Melinda , Silva Tatiana , Désir Gary V. , Konnikova Liza
Published: May 2024

Preeclampsia (PEC) is a complication of pregnancy associated with hypertension and the risk of eclampsia. The pathophysiology of PEC is unknown and identifying factors associated with PEC during pregnancy is crucial for placental, fetal, and maternal health. Renalase (RNLS) is an anti-inflammatory secretory flavoprotein associated with hypertension. Recent data demonstrated a correlation between maternal serum RNLS and PEC, and work from our group identified RNLS expression in the placenta. However, it remains unknown whether RNLS levels in placenta are altered by preeclampsia. Additionally, it is unclear if there is a differential effect of preterm and term PEC on RNLS. We demonstrate that serum RNLS was reduced in preterm cases of PEC. Similarly, placental RNLS was diminished in the chorion of preterm cases of PEC. However, a reduction of RNLS in the decidua was observed with all cases of PEC, while the levels of RNLS within the placental villi were similar in all cases. Overall, we demonstrate that RNLS correlates with PEC both systemically in maternal serum and locally within the placenta, with variable effects on the different layers of the placenta and more pronounced in preterm cases.
Synergistic effect of TiO2 nanoparticles and poly (ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) on the morphology and crystallization behavior of polylactic acid
Authors: El-Taweel Safaa H.
Published: May 2024

The impact of adding 80% vinyl acetate (EVA 80) and 1.0% TiO2 nanoparticles on the morphology and crystallization behavior of poly(lactic acid) blends was investigated using DSC, SEM, and POM. Thermal analysis revealed the enhancement of crystallinity of PLA in the presence of TiO2 and higher EVA 80 content in the blend. The PLA and EVA 80 components showed compatibility as evidenced by the shift of the glass transition temperatures of the PLA phase in the blend to lower values compared to neat PLA. The lower temperature shift of the cold crystallization of the PLA and the formation of the small spherulites of the PLA in the blends indicated that the TiO2 acts as a nucleating agent for crystallization. The non-isothermal crystallization of the blends was evaluated using Avrami's modified model, the MO approach, and Friedman’s isoconversional method. The Avrami’s modified rate constant (K) values and the effective activation energy significantly increased with the incorporation of EVA 80 and TiO2 nanoparticles. Furthermore, the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed improved thermal stability of PLA by adding EVA 80 and TiO2.
Observational Pilot Using a Data to Care Intervention Strategy to Promote HCV Re-engagement and Cure for Persons with HIV/HCV Co-infection who are Out of Care
Authors: Wegener Maximilian , Gosselin Deborah , Brooks Ralph , Speers Suzanne , Villanueva Merceditas
Published: May 2024

Background:
With Direct Acting Antivirals for Hepatitis C virus (HCV), cure is possible in >95% including those with HIV/HCV co-infection. Achieving strategic targets for cure requires addressing barriers including suboptimal care engagement. We adapted Data to Care (D2C), a public health strategy designed to identify and link persons out of care (OOC) for HIV, for persons with HIV/HCV co-infection untreated for HCV.
Methods:
In partnership with Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH), persons OOC for HIV (defined as no HIV surveillance laboratory tests from 10/1/2018-10/1/2019) were matched to a list of persons co-infected with HIV/HCV (through 12/31/2019). We used a three-phase follow-up approach (pre-work, case conferencing, and Disease Intervention Specialist (DIS) follow-up) to track outreach outcomes and re-engagement/HCV cure success.
Results:
There were 90 HIV/HCV co-infected persons who were OOC for HIV. The pre-work and case conferencing phases determined that 33 (36.7%) had previous HCV cure or were in treatment. There were 41 eligible for DIS-follow-up of which 21 (51%) were successfully contacted and 7 (33%) successfully re-engaged (kept appointment with HCV provider). No new HCV treatment initiations were recorded.
Conclusions:
Using a D2C approach, we identified and conducted outreach to persons who were OOC for HIV to promote HCV treatment. This approach resulted in intensive data clean-up and outreach efforts which produced modest re-engagement and no HCV treatment initiations. Future studies should develop alternative and complementary interventions to promote effective re-engagement and HCV treatment.
Multiple myeloma incidence and mortality trends in the United States, 1999-2020
Authors: Zhu David T. , Park Andrew , Lai Alan , Zhang Lingxiao , Attar Hiba , Rebbeck Timothy R.
Published: May 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell disorder accounting for approximately 10% of hematologic malignancies. There is limited epidemiological evidence regarding the long-term trends and disparities in MM in the US. We conducted a multiple time point cross-sectional study using MM incidence rate data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and mortality data from the CDC Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER) Underlying Cause of Death database between 1999 and 2020. During this period, MM incidence has steadily increased, while MM mortality has steadily decreased, with substantial racial and ethnic disparities. Non-Hispanic Black individuals exhibited the highest incidence rates, which consistently rose from 12.02 (95% CI: 10.54, 13.64) in 1999 to 14.20 (95% CI: 12.93, 15.55) per 100,000 population by 2020. Non-Hispanic American Indian/Native Alaskans and Asian/Pacific Islanders demonstrated the lowest incidence rates of 5.59 (95% CI: 2.69, 10.04) and 3.56 (95% CI: 2.94, 4.27) per 100,000 population in 1999 to 5.76 (95% CI: 3.49, 8.90) and 3.92 (95% CI: 3.46, 4.42) per 100,000 population, respectively, by 2020. Disparities by gender, age, tumor stage, US census region, and rurality were observed, underscoring the importance of targeted, equity-centered interventions and MM screening initiatives for at-risk populations.
Holistic Systematic Review on Methodologies of Assessing Effectiveness Cybersecurity Awareness Program
Authors: Garba Adamu Abdullahi , S Maheyzah Md. , othman Sitihajar
Published: May 2024

Cyber-threat is now a global concern to all internet users, as the rate of crimes has tremendously changed from physical to virtual. Implementing awareness programs at various organization levels is required, Also there is a need to know the methodologies used in measuring cybersecurity awareness program effectiveness. The paper aims to review and explore the previous methodologies applied, target organizations, and application of Machine Learning techniques in the assessment of awareness programs. Systematic literature review techniques were used to conduct the search using pre-defined keywords and published papers from 2006 to 2019, the information was used in providing an answer to the research questions. The finding shows questionnaire was widely used as a method of evaluating cybersecurity awareness and also organizations implement more awareness programs, the gap found is the lack of using ML in assessing the effectiveness of design, implemented cybersecurity awareness programs.
Termiticidal Activity of Bio-oil from Hydrothermal Carbonization of Tobacco Stem against the Asian Subterranean Termite Coptotermes gestroi (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae)
Authors: Romano Arlene D. , Acda Menandro N.
Published: May 2024

Bio-oil from hydrothermal carbonization of tobacco (Nicotinia tabacum L) stem using Virginia and Native varieties from the Philippines were investigated for its termiticidal activity against the Asian subterranean termite Coptotermes gestroi Wasmann (Blattodea: Rhinotermitidae). Results of laboratory no-choice and choice feeding tests indicated that bio-oil from Virginia and Native tobacco stem was toxic or not palatable to C. gestroi at 5% concentration resulting in high mortality after 3-5 days of exposure and prevented termite feeding on treated filter paper. At lower concentration from 0.5% to 1%, termite mortality decreased significantly but remained relatively high. Bio-oil from the Native tobacco appeared to be more potent than that from Virginia at the 0.1 to 0.5% concentration. Choice feeding test suggested that C. gestroi exhibited anti-feeding behavior on filter papers treated with 5% or more bio-oil as shown by non-consumption of treated material. In all concentrations tested it indicated that tobacco bio-oil was not repellent to C. gestroi. GC-MS analyses of the chromatogram identified the chemical components of waste Virginia and Native tobacco stem bio-oil to be mostly organic acids and aromatic compound which reportedly have a wide spectrum of activity against various insect pests.
Anatomical and physiological changes in Vicia faba L. under Lead stress
Authors: Benouis Sliman , Bouziani El-Hadj , Neggaz Nour Elhouda
Published: May 2024

Lead toxicity is a serious problem affecting plant structure and water regime. This study investigated the anatomical and physiological responses of Vicia faba L. to lead (Pb) stress, focusing on plant growth in lead-contaminated substrates at concentrations of 0, 500, and 1000 ppm over a 30-day period. Anatomical parameters including the number of vascular bundles (VB), distance between bundles (dVB) (µm), metaxylem diameter (Mxd) (µm), and thickness of the outer wall of epidermal cells (tWEC) (µm) were measured alongside physiological parameters such as RWC, stomatal conductance, and osmotic potential. Lead accumulation in tissues with certain growth parameters were also measured. The findings showed significant sensitivity of metaxylem diameter to Pb stress, especially at 1000 ppm, indicating changes in hydraulic conductivity. Lead stress also increased the thickness of epidermal cell walls at 1000 ppm, showing adaptive structural changes due to lead toxicity. While RWC had minor variations, osmotic potential decreased notably at 1000 ppm Pb, indicating disruptions in water regulation. Stomatal conductance was also affected by Pb stress, highlighting physiological alterations. The study also found significant lead accumulation in plant tissues, indicating the plant's ability to absorb and retain lead under stress. These results contribute to our understanding of the complex responses of Vicia faba L. to lead stress, including a decrease in plant growth, and emphasize the intricate mechanisms involved in plant-metal interactions and their implications for plant health and environmental sustainability
Cost-effective catalytic epoxide ring-opening reactions using Zr-based MOF MIP-202: a comparative study with UiO-66-(CO 2 H) 2
Authors: Bagherzadeh Mojtaba , chegeni mohsen , bayrami arshad , amini mojtaba
Published: May 2024

This study еxplorеd thе catalytic pеrformancе of two robust zirconium-basеd mеtal-organic framеworks (MOFs), MIP-202(Zr) and UiO-66-(CO2H)2 in thе ring-opening of еpoxidеs using alcohols and aminеs as nucleophilic reagents. Thе MOFs wеrе charactеrizеd by tеchniquеs such as FT-IR, PXRD, FE-SEM, and EDX. Through systematic optimization of key parameters (catalyst amount, time, temperature, solvent), MIP-202(Zr) achieved 99% styrene oxide conversion in 25 minutes with methanol at room temperature using 5 mg catalyst. In contrast, UiO-66-(CO2H)2 required drastically harsher conditions of 120 minutes, 60°C, and four times the catalyst loading to reach 98% conversion. A similar trend was observed for ring-opening with aniline –MIP-202(Zr) gave 93% conversion in one hour at room temperature, while UiO-66-(CO2H)2 needed two hours at 60°C for 95% conversion. The superior performance of MIP-202(Zr) likely stems from cooperative Brønsted/Lewis acid sites and higher proton conductivity enabling more efficient epoxide activation. Remarkably, MIP-202(Zr) maintained consistent activity over five recycles in the ring-opening of styrene oxide by methanol and over three recycles in the ring-opening of styrene oxide by aniline. Testing various epoxide substrates and nucleophiles revealed trends in reactivity governed by electronic and steric effects. The results provide useful insights into tuning Zr-MOF-based catalysts and highlight thе promisе of thе cost-еffеctivе and sustainablе MIP-202(Zr) for divеrsе еpoxidе ring-opеning rеactions on an industrial scalе.
Navigating Challenges and Triumphs:
Transforming Healthcare Landscapes in a Developing Country Through Robotic Thyroidectomy For Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Agarwal Mudit , Singh Abhishek , Rai Shreya , RonakBhardwaj  , Deshpande Gitanjali
Published: May 2024

Purpose: This study aims to present our experience with robotic thyroidectomy for differentiated thyroid carcinoma via Modified BABA (Bilateral Axillo Breast Approach) and Retroauricular approach.
Methods: It is a retrospective observational single institution-based study comprising 19 patients who underwent robotic thyroid surgery for thyroid carcinoma between October 2018 and January 2022. All patients underwent robotic thyroidectomy via the da Vinci Xi Robotic surgical system.
Results: Nineteen patients underwent robotic thyroidectomy, and none of the patients needed conversion to open surgery. Nine patients (47.3%) underwent thyroidectomy by Modified BABA approach, whereas ten patients (52.7%) underwent Retroauricular thyroidectomy. In 10 patients, central compartment clearance was done (5 through Modified BABA and 5 through Retroauricular approach). Lateral neck nodes were addressed in 4 patients (1 through Modified BABA and 3 through Retroauricular). The median lymph node retrieval from the central compartment was six (2-15 nodes), and 51 nodes (22-108) from the lateral compartment. The median hospital stay was four days (2 to 6 days). None of the 19 patients had post-operative RLN palsy or any scar-related complaints /hypertrophic scars. The average PTH value post-op was 32.1 pg/ml (3.8-70.4 pg/ml).
Conclusion: Robotic thyroidectomy is superior to cosmesis and comparable to open surgery, given safety and most perioperative outcomes in carefully selected patients. However, it has the disadvantage of being associated with higher costs, which becomes a constraint in developing countries.
Buprenorphine/naloxone – One formulation that doesn’t fit all: A case report
Authors: Braun Hannan , Taylor Jessica , Axelrath Sarah
Published: May 2024

Background
Sublingual buprenorphine, approved for treatment of opioid use disorder since 2002, is most commonly available in co-formulation with naloxone. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist minimally absorbed when sublingual (SL) buprenorphine/naloxone is taken as prescribed; it is thought to reduce potential for misuse via intravenous administration. However, growing data and clinical experience demonstrate that previously accepted assumptions about the pharmacokinetics of these medications may not apply to all patients.
Case presentation
We present a patient whose adverse post-administration side effects on SL buprenorphine/naloxone resolved with transition to SL buprenorphine monoproduct.
Discussion
Naloxone can be detected in nearly all patients taking SL buprenorphine/naloxone, though with apparent variability in clinical effect. In a minority of patients, naloxone can contribute to adverse and potentially treatment-limiting side effects. Furthermore, the naloxone component is commonly misunderstood by patients and providers and can foster mistrust in the therapeutic relationship if providers are perceived to be withholding a more tolerable formulation. Prescribers should have a low threshold to offer buprenorphine alone when clinically appropriate.
Research on Small Object Defect DetectionAlgorithms Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Li Jing , Lu Yabiao , Li Muzi , Li Peijuan , Wang Rongdi , Qi Jiantao , Zuo Haiqiang
Published: May 2024

In order to improve the accuracy of industrial defect detection based on deep learning, the special defect data set IDEF (Industrial defect data set, IDEF) is constructed, and the defect data is enhanced by digital image processing and deep learning. After data enhancement, the accuracy of defect detection is improved by 0.55 percentage points. Aiming at the phenomenon that small target defects are easy to be missed by the model, a method of adding grid intersection points to the regression strategy of target detection network is proposed to increase the predicted defect benchmark. The experiment shows that this method improves the defect detection accuracy map (mean average precision) by 1.96%. Aiming at the problem of poor representation ability of small target defects, a scale weight loss function is proposed, which makes the model more sensitive to defects with smaller size and more thorough learning of small target defects. It is found that this method improves the accuracy of defect detection by 2.23%. Finally, based on the fcosv2 basic model, two small target defect detection strategies are used at the same time to improve the defect detection accuracy by 3.35%.
Cloud-based large-scale curation of medical imaging data using AI segmentation
Authors: Thiriveedhi Vamsi Krishna , Krishnaswamy Deepa , Clunie David , Pieper Steve , Kikinis Ron , Fedorov Andrey
Published: May 2024

Rapid advances in medical imaging Artificial Intelligence (AI) offer unprecedented opportunities for automatic analysis and extraction of data from large imaging collections. Computational demands of such modern AI tools may be difficult to satisfy with the capabilities available on premises. Cloud computing offers the promise of economical access and extreme scalability. Few studies examine the price/performance tradeoffs of using the cloud, in particular for medical image analysis tasks. We investigate the use of cloud-provisioned compute resources for AI-based curation of the National Lung Screening Trial (NLST) Computed Tomography (CT) images available from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Imaging Data Commons (IDC). We evaluated NCI Cancer Research Data Commons (CRDC) Cloud Resources - Terra (FireCloud) and Seven Bridges-Cancer Genomics Cloud (SB-CGC) platforms - to perform automatic image segmentation with TotalSegmentator and pyradiomics feature extraction for a large cohort containing >126,000 CT volumes from >26,000 patients. Utilizing >21,000 Virtual Machines (VMs) over the course of the computation we completed analysis in under 9 hours, as compared to the estimated 522 days that would be needed on a single workstation. The total cost of utilizing the cloud for this analysis was $1,011.05. Our contributions include: 1) an evaluation of the numerous tradeoffs towards optimizing the use of cloud resources for large-scale image analysis; 2) CloudSegmentator, an open source reproducible implementation of the developed workflows, which can be reused and extended; 3) practical recommendations for utilizing the cloud for large-scale medical image computing tasks. We also share the results of the analysis: the total of 9,565,554 segmentations of the anatomic structures and the accompanying radiomics features in IDC as of release v18.
Sulfide mineralization in orogenic eclogites of the North Muya block (northeastern Transbaikalia): genesis and the first data on the isotopic composition of sulfur
Authors: Skuzovatov S. Yu. , Tarasova Yu. I.
Published: May 2024

Subduction processes are accompanied by the sites of hydrothermal activity including large deposits of gold and transitional metals of island-arc or back-arc origin, whereas volcanic arcs host most part of the worldwide resources of metallic minerals. However, the role of suprasubduction metal transfer and the associated role of redox processes in their formation are still ambiguous and require direct studies of sulfide mineralization in high-pressure rocks, as well as their formation stages and sulfide preservation during progressive and peak metamorphism. In order to describe the behavior of chalcophile elements in the paleozones of continental subduction we performed preliminary mineralogical (SEM-EDX) and isotope (S) studies of sulfides in the North Muya block eclogites (northeastern Transbaikalia). Sulfide mineralization of pyrite-chalcopyrite-pyrrhotite composition has a metasomatic origin associated with the retrograde fluid transformation of initially “dry” eclogite assemblages during exhumation to lower- or mid-crust levels after or synchronously to the decompression and formation of plagioclase-diopside±amphibole symplectites (below 10-12 kbar). Extremely heterogeneous isotopic composition of pyrite sulfur (δ34SVCDT) was caused by various sources of fluids of presumably metasedimentary origin (from -8.2 to -6 %) in the paragneiss segments of the North Muya block. But they also could be predominantly buffered by hydrothermally altered metabasites (from +0.7 to +7.1 %). An alternative mechanism could be the participation of a single predominantly oxidized (sulfate-containing) fluid with the significant isotopic fractionation (up to ~15–20 %).
Dynamic range issues and image information content when visualizing seismic data
Authors: Dmitriev A. G. , Dmitrieva M. A. , Kovalev A. S.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this review is to discuss the problem of seismic data visualization in relation to human vision capabilities based on the seismic signal dynamic range assessment.

   The ways of increasing the information content and efficiency of visualization methods in terms of increasing their resolution are considered. The conducted analysis has shown that the dynamic range of seismic recordings exceeds the capabilities of the human eye by 2–3 orders of magnitude and the capabilities of technical visualization means by 4–5 orders of magnitude. Color vision models are considered on example of the most versatile hardware additive RGB color model. The model was chosen based on the idea of the human vision system as a set of photosensitive cones that register red, green and blue colors and the human brain, which processes and forms a color image in one’s consciousness. The relationships between monochrome and color images perceived by the human eye based on several types of sensitive receptors have been established. It is concluded that the use of a color image significantly expands information capabilities. Thus, 8 grey steps are enough for the monochrome method of information output, whereas the use of color devices allows to increase the number of steps up to 14. The methodology for solving this problem consists in the application of new technologies based on the use of large-scale and three-dimensional images providing a significant increase in the values of luminous flux, resolution and contrast based on the expansion of the dynamic range taking into consideration the limits of human vision.
Immigrant learners traversing the prospects of mastering destination languages: a perspective of globalisation and linguistic competencies
Authors: Baloyi Mafemani Joseph , Zano Kufakunesu
Published: May 2024

The article adopts a qualitative method to explore and demonstrate the impact of a lack of local language proficiency in a multinational classroom. It contributes to a better understanding of the extent of the language barrier to effective teaching and learning. It also demonstrates how a lack of inclusivity in a multilingual classroom could have negative consequences on a learner's performance and the quality of teaching and learning in general. Despite the extensive literature on how the lack of language proficiency impairs quality teaching and learning in a classroom, further research should be carried out on promoting equal access to quality teaching and learning. The ongoing globalised migration makes it imperative that this study be carried out with much focus on a multinational classroom, Xitsonga in particular. Over the last decade, South Africa has emerged as the major destination for people leaving Zimbabwe. For this qualitative study in one of Xitsonga classroom settings with an unnoticeable number of Zimbabwean migrant learners in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, two Grade 11 immigrant high school learners whose home language is Shona, enrolled in the Further Education and Training (FET) phase, were used as respondents. The researchers used conversation analysis to collect data. The results revealed that teacher-to-learner and learner-to-learner interactions are important in learning an additional language. Besides, all learners have immeasurable prior knowledge, gained from schooling and life experiences, and additional language teachers can build on those experiences. Also, translation, code-switching and translanguaging are necessary for developing broader inter-linguistic and intercultural skills when learning an additional language. The study recommends inculcating in the learners the belief that languages are intertwined and that they all have a social orientation
Analisis Perbandingan Moodle dan Google Classroom Menggunakan Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Santiadi Sherly , Majiah Arya Tri Putra , Ruis Nisa Deviani Agustin , Annabel Kathleen Felicia , Karnalim Oscar
Published: May 2024

The study aims to analyze the comparison of student acceptance levels of the Learning Management System (LMS) which are Moodle and Google Classroom using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) in the West Java region, Indonesia. The results of this study show that there is a difference in the level of acceptance of the two LMSs but the difference is not very significant.  Moodle appears to be slightly more effective in increasing student productivity and is more commonly used in West Java due to the sample of respondents who are mostly from the Faculty of Information Technology (FIT) at Maranatha Christian University. FIT students have largely adopted the Moodle LMS implemented into the Morning Platform (Maranatha Online Learning). With more complex features, Moodle meets the needs of more experienced users. On the other hand, Google Classroom is considered easier to use, especially for students who are new to the LMS. However, over a longer period of time, Moodle maintained a slight edge in terms of usability and user satisfaction. This research makes an important contribution in understanding the preferences and needs of university students in terms of LMS usage, especially in the West Java region.
Phase transitions of wave packet dynamics in disordered non-Hermitian systems
Authors: Spring Helene , Könye Viktor , Gerritsma Fabian A. , Fulga Ion Cosma , Akhmerov Anton R.
Published: May 2024

Disorder can localize the eigenstates of one-dimensional non-Hermitian systems, leading to an Anderson transition with a critical exponent of 1. We show that, due to the lack of energy conservation, the dynamics of individual, real-space wave packets follows a different behavior. Both transitions between localization and unidirectional amplification, as well as transitions between distinct propagating phases become possible. The critical exponent of the transition is close to 1/2 in propagating-propagating and (de)localization transitions.
La Cafein-finita. Gestión de recursos naturales finitos con gamificación.
Authors: Calpa O Jorge Eduardo , Alexander Aragón Ch Alexander
Published: May 2024

Éste trabajo propone una aplicación en línea que permite simular un entorno de competencia empresarial con explotación de recursos naturales, involucrando diversas variables que puedan ser consideradas en el modelado del comportamiento de sistemas  para facilitar a los participantes, el entendimiento de un sistema como conjunto de partes y sus relaciones, como un todo. La metodología de desarrollo consideró el concepto de gamificación, incorpora elementos propios de dicha estrategia didáctica; posteriormente se desarrolló el recurso digital empleando las herramientas de la plataforma Google Workspace para construir un entorno virtual; finalmente, se incorporó un instrumento psicológico para recabar información que permita validar el desempeño del recurso. En una primera implementación, se recopilaron datos de un grupo de estudiantes visitantes en la Universidad de Antioquia  a partir de los cuales se revisaron y ajustaron los modelos matemáticos que condicionan el comportamiento del sistema simulado, de tal manera que el “caos” comience a visualizarse a partir de 7 períodos de juego en adelante; en la implementación del instrumento psicológico, se constató que para la mayoría, la actividad fue efectiva en cuanto al fomento del conocimiento teórico, en las habilidades tecnológicas, en la comunicación y el trabajo colaborativo, en el aprendizaje y ritmo propio.
Intestinal Microbiome and Antimicrobial Resistivity: A Study in Recent Times
Authors: Das Shayeri , Agarwal Sangita , Bose Anirbandeep , Das Dibya
Published: May 2024

The world has recently witnessed a pandemic and is now challenged by continuous environmental changes. Human health is in constant jeopardy with the rise in bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. Antibiotics are the most widely used medication for the treatment of any infection. The urban population does not always maintain a healthy lifestyle due to the fast-paced nature of life. West Bengal the eastern state of India is no exception to this directive. Rampant use of antibiotics and their frequent consumption has widely increased over the years. This is posing a serious threat to the healthy microbiome of the human intestine. It is resulting in a decline of the healthy microbiota and the development of antibiotic resistance. The study aims to understand the effect of antibiotic consumption in the post-COVID scenario on the gut microbiome of the West Bengal population. The population includes both rural and urban as it takes into account the different lifestyles.
Digital transformation metamodel in smart farming: Crop classification prediction based on recurrent neural network
Authors: Rabhi Loubna , Jabir Brahim , Falih Noureddine , Afraites Lekbir , Bouikhalene Belaid
Published: May 2024

Agriculture 4.0 is an opportunity for farmers to meet the current challenges in food production. It has become necessary to adopt a set of agricultural practices based on advanced technologies. Agriculture 4.0 enables farms to create added value by combining innovative technologies, such as precision agriculture, information and communication technology, robotics, and Big Data.
As an enterprise, a connected farm is highly sensitive to strategic changes in organizational structures, objectives, modified variety, new business objects, processes, etc. To control the farm’s information system strategically, we proposed a metamodel based on the ISO/IS 19440 standard, where we added some new constructs relating to advanced digital technologies for smart and connected agriculture.
We applied the proposed metamodel to the crop classification prediction process. This involved using machine learning methods such as recurrent neural networks to predict the type of crop being grown in a given agricultural area.
Our research bridges farming with modern technology through our metamodel for a connected farm, promoting sustainability and efficiency. Furthermore, our crop classification study demonstrates the power of advanced machine learning, guided by our metamodel, in accurately predicting crop conditions, emphasizing its potential for crop management and food security. In essence, our work advances the transformative role of digital agriculture in modern farming.
Bibliometric analysis of scientific research on Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich.) Hochst.
Authors: Abdelwahab Siddig Ibrahim , Taha Manal Mohamed Elhassan , Mariod Abdalbasit Adam
Published: May 2024

Sclerocarya birrea (A. Rich.) Hochst. is an African wild tree found in many countries across the continent. Its leaves, bark, root, and fruits are used in food, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. However, no systematic bibliometric review on S. birrea have been performed so far.
This study covered publications made in 1986–2022 and investigated such bibliometric indicators as knowledge dynamics, links and structure, relevant journals, productive organizations, renowned authors, authoring patterns, national and international collaboration levels, etc. The bibliometric data on a total of 369 publications were downloaded from Scopus database and analyzed using the MS-Excel and VOSViewer software.
The Scopus publications on S. birrea showed a versatile range in the interdisciplinary areas of research, with agricultural and biological sciences predominating. The Republic of South Africa was responsible for the largest number of citations. All in all, 63 countries published research on S. birrea in the specified time period, and the share of African countries was 65.43% of the total global research. Co-authorship and international collaboration were registered for six clusters. A total of 1114 researchers and 160 institutions actively contributed to S. birrea studies, with 37 having a minimum of five publications. Mapping of knowledge structure using the keyword co-occurrence revealed the related research areas. The Journal of Ethnopharmacology took the lead in terms of average citation.
The co-citation analysis revealed some remarkable dynamics in S. birrea research. This bibliometric study provides a complete insight into S. birrea research development and publication patterns over the last 36 years.
Flood damage assessment for the Phan-Ca Lo River basin in Vinh Phuc Province, Vietnam
Authors: Phan Hung Manh , Tran Chau Kim , Vu Hue Thi Minh
Published: May 2024

In this research, the authors aim to evaluate the damage caused by floods in Vinh Phuc Province. The study incorporates the construction of hydro-hydraulic models and the development of damage functions for the main elements at risk. In order to ensure the accuracy of the calculated results, the hydro-hydraulic models and damage curves are verified for their reasonableness. The outcomes of this study give us an overview of flood damage in the research area. It indicates that the potential level of flood damage is a matter of significant concern, with an annual damage estimate of approximately 6.9 million USD. The research also reveals the distribution of damage by sector and by space. According to the research findings, the greatest damage was in Vinh Tuong District, where most of the damage was caused by flooding of agricultural land. In contrast, residential buildings in the area suffered relatively little damage compared to agricultural land. This information is crucial for decision-makers to implement effective and targeted mitigation measures.
An analytical review on the integrated management of river resources throughNamami Gange
Authors: Balkrishna Acharya , Singh Sumit Kumar , Ghosh Sourav , Banerjee Srimoyee , Verma Sonam , Arya Vedpriya
Published: May 2024

The Ganga basin is witnessing accelerated deterioration of agricultural fields, with severe soil erosion leading to nutrients leaching into the river, wreaking havoc on the river's ecosystems. Many Ganga River management plans have been implemented in the past, but a more coordinated and integrated effort that tries to implement basin management strategies with technology preparedness considered critical for the preservation of agricultural regions had been lacking. The Namami Gange Program (NGP) is a first of its kind integrated conservation mission pillared on sustainable water management policies and practices, launched in 2014. Unfortunately, scientific literature on its overall functioning and progress is almost non-existent. This review presents its overall functioning, critically analyses its associated components, and presents case studies, pilot studies, along with analytical critiques. An objective analytical evaluation of the NGP has been provided concluding with sectoral interventions. We have concluded that the ambitions for boosting energy production, irrigation, manufacturing, and expanding the river as an inland waterway interfere with the Ganga cleanup because they are both part of the growth strategy pushed by the administration.
Impact of coastal inundation due to rise in sea level: A case study of Surat City, India
Authors: Sahu Ramgopal T. , Mehta Darshan J.
Published: May 2024

The urban population of the world houses almost 13% in low-elevation coastal zones (LECZ). Major cities with a population of more than five million, which account for almost two-thirds of the world's large cities, reside in low-elevation coastal zones. These areas house some of the most important socioeconomic activities, and they are also environmentally delicate. According to the IPCC 2007 report, there will be an 8–88 cm rise in sea level between 2000 and 2100 AD, which will have an unpredictable and massive impact on land up to 9 m elevation above MSL. This study discusses the rise in sea level, climate vulnerability, and future problems using elevation-based GIS analysis, accomplishing socioeconomic vulnerability and exposure. The statistics suggest that more than 26% of the population lies within a 9 m contour interval, whereas a 20 m contour accommodated 81% of the total population. In figures, it is estimated that over 1,632,200 people by 2011, which is expected to rise to 4,048,894 people by 2050, are exposed to 100-year flood events. Thus, the study clinched that a significant number of people in Surat confront flooding due to the extreme rise in water level during this period.
ATENÇÃO HOSPITALAR EM SAÚDE MENTAL NO RIO GRANDE DO NORTE: CONTRIBUIÇÕES DO PLANEJAMENTO E AVALIAÇÃO EM SAÚDE
Authors: Pinheiro Eslia Maria Nunes , Andrade Flávia Thays Silva Araújo , Gomes Herbert Lucas Nascimento , Oliveira Mário  Lins Galvão de , Cavalcante Elisângela Franco de Oliveira , Mendonça Ana Elza Oliveira de , Andrade Fábia Barbosa de
Published: May 2024

Introdução: O componente hospitalar da Rede de Atenção Psicossocial (RAPS) preconiza o fechamento progressivo de hospitais psiquiátricos e a implementação de leitos de saúde mental em hospital geral, capazes de fornecer atendimento para os casos agudos que necessitem de internação de forma articulada com os demais pontos de atenção da rede. Objetivo: Diante disso, o objetivo do presente artigo foi analisar a distribuição do número de leitos de atenção hospitalar em saúde mental no Rio Grande do Norte entre 2012 e 2022 e apresentar uma proposta de planejamento e avaliação para fortalecer a RAPS do estado. Metodologia: Trata-se de um estudo ecológico realizado no estado do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil, no período de 2012 a 2022, usando dados secundários sobre as internações. Seguido de um estudo propositivo com base em referências de planejamento e avaliação em saúde. Resultados: Observa-se uma redução do número de leitos psiquiátricos ao longo do tempo, mas que não se mostra suficiente e não se traduz em um crescimento satisfatório de leitos de saúde mental em hospital geral. Foram propostas cinco ações com o intuito de fortalecer a RAPS através da implantação e qualificação de leitos de saúde mental em hospitais gerais. Conclusão: Conclui-se que o movimento de constituição do componente hospitalar da RAPS do RN tem-se apresentado em movimento irregular e o número de leitos de saúde mental em hospital geral é insuficiente. Espera-se que as intervenções e avaliações sugeridas possam contribuir para subsidiar importantes encaminhamentos no âmbito das políticas públicas de saúde mental do Rio Grande do Norte, Brasil.
PORTFÓLIO: PERCEPÇÃO DE ESTUDANTES DE GRADUAÇÃO DA ÁREA DA SAÚDE
Authors: Rodrigues Maísa Paulino , Ferreira Maria Angela Fernandes , Nunes Waleska de Brito , Silva Endrya Vitória Braz Inácio da
Published: May 2024

Introdução: A formação em saúde norteia a prática profissional, incidindo diretamente na atenção e assistência à saúde ofertada à população. Nesse sentido, o uso de métodos ativos de aprendizagem e avaliação, como por exemplo, o portfólio, podem contribuir para a construção de conhecimentos crítico-reflexivos. Objetivo: Evidenciar a percepção de estudantes dos cursos da área da saúde, que cursam a disciplina de Saúde e Cidadania na Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte sobre o uso do portfólio enquanto instrumento de avaliação do ensino aprendizagem. Metodologia: Os dados foram obtidos por meio da formação de grupo focal e analisados pela análise do conteúdo. Definiram-se, então, as categorias temáticas: percepção sobre o portfólio; a elaboração do portfólio e a sua contribuição para a formação; dificuldades para formulação do portfólio; o portfólio como instrumento de avaliação. Resultados: Os estudantes compreendem o portfólio como instrumento de diálogo entre docentes e discentes, através dos relatos das vivências em grupo nos equipamentos sociais e reflexões individuais na construção de conceitos e aprofundamento teórico. Ainda referem inseguranças e dúvidas acerca da estruturação e confecção do instrumento, no entanto, percebem o portfólio como potente e inovador no auxílio a construção do conhecimento uma vez que permite o acompanhamento do processo de ensino-aprendizagem, possibilitando maior interação entre educador-educando, com produção de uma aprendizagem significativa. Conclusões: o portfólio estimula a reflexão e a crítica acerca das vivências nos cenários de práticas onde se desenvolve o componente curricular Saúde e Cidadania corroborando, sobremaneira, para a construção do conhecimento dos estudantes.
Palavras-Chave: Métodos de Avaliação; Modelos Educacionais; Métodos Pedagógicos.
PREVALÊNCIA E FATORES DE RISCO RELACIONADOS A COMPORTAMENTOS SUICIDAS EM PROFISSIONAIS DO SEXO
Authors: Almeida Maria Rita Pereira de , Alves Heloisa Roberta Liandro , Santana Ellen Karyne de Sousa , Alves Alana Dias , Medeiros Nara Maria Holanda de , Sousa Milena Nunes Alves de
Published: May 2024

Introdução: O trabalho sexual consentido é, historicamente, permeado por estigmas, proporcionando a marginalização social de profissionais do sexo e sua maior exposição a fatores de riscos que tendenciam a condutas suicidas. Objetivo: Identificar a prevalência e dos fatores de riscos relacionados a comportamentos suicidas em profissionais do sexo, tendo em vista a vulnerabilidade social desse grupo. Metodologia: Este estudo é uma revisão integrativa de literatura, determinada a partir da seguinte questão de pesquisa: “Qual a prevalência e os fatores de riscos relacionados a comportamentos suicidas entre profissionais do sexo?”. Em seguida, aplicou os subsequentes Descritores em Ciências da Saúde (DECS): “Suicide” e “Sex workers”, que foram combinados com o operador booleano “AND”, nas plataformas National Library of Medicine, Science Direct, Portal de Periódicos da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior, Literatura Latino-americana e do Caribe, Scientific Eletronic Library Online, BioMed Central, Business Source Complete e WorldWideScience. Foram selecionados 19 artigos relacionados ao objeto de estudo. Resultados: A prevalência de suicídio em profissionais do sexo foi classificada em três categorias: tentativas de suicídio, com predominância de 31,57% (n=6), ideação suicida com 15,78% (n=3) e o risco de suicídio com 5,26% (n=1). Os riscos de comportamentos suicidas foram associados a diversos fatores, sobretudo a violência (47,36%; n=9), depressão (26,31%; n=5) e a pobreza (15,78%; n=3). Conclusões: Há uma alta prevalência de comportamentos suicidas em profissionais do sexo que está associada a diversos fatores de riscos, verificando a carência de abordagens comunitárias direcionadas à vulnerabilidade social desse grupo.
Warfare Nerve Agents and Paraoxonase-1 as a Potential Prophylactic
Therapy against Intoxication
Authors: Iyengar A.R. Satvik , Khandave Prakash Y. , Bzdrenga Janek , Nachon Florian , Brazzolotto Xavier , Pande Abhay H.
Published: May 2024

Nerve agents are a class of lethal neurotoxic chemicals used in chemical warfare. In
this review, we have discussed a brief history of chemical warfare, followed by an exploration of
the historical context surrounding nerve agents. The article explores the classification of these
agents, their contemporary uses, their toxicity mechanisms, and the disadvantages of the current
treatment options for nerve agent poisoning. It then discusses the possible application of enzymes
as prophylactics against nerve agent poisoning, outlining the benefits and drawbacks of paraoxonase-
1. Finally, the current studies on paraoxonase-1 are reviewed, highlighting that several challenges
need to be addressed in the use of paraoxonase-1 in the actual field and that its potential as
a prophylactic antidote against nerve agent poisoning needs to be evaluated. The literature used in
this manuscript was searched using various electronic databases, such as PubMed, Google Scholar,
Web of Science, Elsevier, Springer, ACS, Google Patent, and books using the keywords chemical
warfare agent, butyrylcholinesterase, enzyme, nerve agent, prophylactic, and paraoxonase-1,
with the time scale for the analysis of articles between 1960 to 2023. The study has suggested that
concerted efforts by researchers and agencies must be made to develop effective countermeasures
against NA poisoning and that paraoxonase-1 has suitable properties for the development of efficient
prophylaxis against NA poisoning.