bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Monitoring of Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis Based on Multidimensional Wearable Plantar Pressure Features: Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Xie Junan , Li Shilin , Song Zhen , Shu Lin , Zeng Qing , Huang Guozhi , Lin Yihuan
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) often present lower extremity motor dysfunction. However, traditional radiography is a static assessment and cannot achieve long-term dynamic functional monitoring. Plantar pressure signals have demonstrated potential applications in the diagnosis and rehabilitation monitoring of KOA.

OBJECTIVE

Through wearable gait analysis technology, we aim to obtain abundant gait information based on machine learning techniques to develop a simple, rapid, effective, and patient-friendly functional assessment model for the KOA rehabilitation process to provide long-term remote monitoring, which is conducive to reducing the burden of social health care system.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study enrolled patients diagnosed with KOA who were able to walk independently for 2 minutes. Participants were given clinically recommended functional tests, including the 40-m fast-paced walk test (40mFPWT) and timed up-and-go test (TUGT). We used a smart shoe system to gather gait pressure data from patients with KOA. The multidimensional gait features extracted from the data and physical characteristics were used to establish the KOA functional feature database for the plantar pressure measurement system. 40mFPWT and TUGT regression prediction models were trained using a series of mature machine learning algorithms. Furthermore, model stacking and average ensemble learning methods were adopted to further improve the generalization performance of the model. Mean absolute error (MAE), mean absolute percentage error (MAPE), and root mean squared error (RMSE) were used as regression performance metrics to evaluate the results of different models.

RESULTS

A total of 92 patients with KOA were included, exhibiting varying degrees of severity as evaluated by the Kellgren and Lawrence classification. A total of 380 gait features and 4 physical characteristics were extracted to form the feature database. Effective stepwise feature selection determined optimal feature subsets of 11 variables for the 40mFPWT and 10 variables for the TUGT. Among all models, the weighted average ensemble model using 4 tree-based models had the best generalization performance in the test set, with an MAE of 2.686 seconds, MAPE of 9.602%, and RMSE of 3.316 seconds for the prediction of the 40mFPWT and an MAE of 1.280 seconds, MAPE of 12.389%, and RMSE of 1.905 seconds for the prediction of the TUGT.

CONCLUSIONS

This wearable plantar pressure feature technique can objectively quantify indicators that reflect functional status and is promising as a new tool for long-term remote functional monitoring of patients with KOA. Future work is needed to further explore and investigate the relationship between gait characteristics and functional status with more functional tests and in larger sample cohorts.
Navigating the Paradox: Challenges and Strategies of University Students Managing Mental Health Medication in Real-World Practices (Preprint)
Authors: Li Jiachen , Steinberg Justin , Mynatt Elizabeth , Mishra Varun
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Mental health has become a growing concern among university students. According to the Healthy Minds Study (HMS) National Report 2022-2023, 46% of students have been diagnosed with a mental disorder by a health professional, reflecting a nearly 50% increase from 2013 to 2021. While researchers have developed various technologies to help this issue, one significant aspect of the mental health management journey is often understudied -- the role of mental health medication. Understanding how university students manage their medication for mental health symptoms in real-world practice has not been fully explored.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aimed to examine university students’ experiences in taking and managing their mental health medications. We want to understand the unique challenges in the mental health medication management process and their coping strategies, particularly examining the role of various technologies in this process.

METHODS

We conducted semi-structured interviews with participants who are self-identified as currently taking medication for mental health diagnosis and are students at a university. Two researchers open-coded the interview transcripts and notes, and conducted a thematic analysis to identify three primary themes we detail in the findings section.

RESULTS

We discovered that due to struggles with self-acceptance and the interdependent relationship between medication, symptoms, schedules, and life changes, the medication management process for students was a highly dynamic journey involving frequent dosage changes. Thus, students adopted flexible strategies of using minimal technology to manage their medication in different situations while maintaining a high degree of autonomy. Based on our findings, we propose design implications for future technologies to seamlessly integrate into their daily lives and assist students in managing their mental health medications.

CONCLUSIONS

In the paper, we conducted semi-structured interviews with university students currently under-
going medication for mental health issues. The interviews aimed to uncover the challenges they
encountered in their university lives, along with the coping strategies and technologies employed to navigate these challenges. We found that students often rely on creative ways to use fixed alarms on their phones, however, encounter numerous difficulties due to factors such as the flexibility of daily routines. Based on these findings, we proposed six design implications for how advanced technology could better assist university students in managing their mental health medications.
Custom-Contoured Cushion Fabrication Method Based on Pressure Mapping. A Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: De León-Hernández Alma , Martínez-Hernández Adriana , Bolivar-Tellería Isabel , Bosch-Sánchez Andrea , Cabrera-Padilla María Fernanda , López-López Carlos Omar
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Pressure ulcers (PU) are a severe health problem with social and health repercussions. Wheelchair users are susceptible to developing PU, so they shall use a cushion to relieve pressure, distribute weight evenly, and increase the contact area. Pressure-relieving cushions at affordable prices are still a need. Custom-contoured cushions were developed using map pressure to address this need.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to (1) develop a methodology to manufacture custom-contoured cushions and (2) evaluate the cushion's performance compared with commercial cushions relating to pressure relief.

METHODS

First, a validation study was carried out with seven no-wheelchair users. The pressure was determined using an FSA sensor (BodiTrak BT1510), and the cushion profile was obtained through a linear relation. In the second phase, ten cushions for wheelchair users were manufactured and tested. The resulting data from buttock pressure using a flat foam, Jay® X2 (gel-foam), ROHO® HP (air), and customed-contoured cushions was analyzed and compared using the following four variables: peak pressure (PP), peak pressure index (PPI), mean pressure (MP), and contact area (CA).

RESULTS

In the validation study, the statistically significant difference (P <0.001) between the flat and the contoured cushion showed a better performance in pressure relief for the custom cushion. Regarding the study with wheelchair users, contoured cushions had lower PP (91.3 (36.0) mmHg), PPI (69.5 (33.7) mmHg), and MP (34.2 (17.4) mmHg) against flat, Jay® X2, and ROHO® HP cushions (P <0.005). The CA (1457.6 (254.1) cm2) was greater for the contoured cushion (P <0.001) than for flat and ROHO cushions; nevertheless, it was not significantly different from Jay X2 (P=0.595).

CONCLUSIONS

The performance of custom-contoured cushions was tested and compared against a flat foam and two commercial cushions. The main finding is that the method of mapping buttock pressure produces low-cost custom-contoured cushions as an efficient pressure relief solution to prevent the development of ulcer pressure.
How Does Engagement Change over Time in a Digital Eating Disorder App? (Preprint)
Authors: Flatt Rachael E. , Thornton Laura M. , Tregarthen Jenna , Argue Stuart , Bulik Cynthia M.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Engagement with digital mental health interventions is often measured as a summary-level variable and remains under-researched despite its importance for meaningful symptom change.

OBJECTIVE

The current study deepens understanding of engagement in a digital eating disorder intervention by measuring engagement with unique components of the app, on two different devices (phone and watch), and at a summary-level.

METHODS

Participants with current binge-eating behavior were recruited as part of the Binge Eating Genetics Initiative (BEGIN study) to use a digital eating disorder intervention for 4 weeks. Demographic and severity of illness variables were captured in the baseline survey at enrollment, and engagement data were captured through both an iPhone and Apple Watch version of the intervention. Engagement was characterized by log type (urge, behavior, mood, or meal), device type (logs on phone or watch), and overall usage (total logs) and averaged each week for four weeks. Descriptives were tabulated for demographic and engagement variables, and multilevel growth models were conducted for each measure of engagement with baseline characteristics and time as predictors.

RESULTS

Participants (n=893) self-reported as primarily White (n=743, 85.3%), non-Hispanic (n=92; 10.3%), females (n=772, 86.5%) with a mean age of 29.6 years (SD=7.4) and mean current BMI of 32.5 kg/m2 (SD=9.8) and used the app for a mean of 24 days. Most logs were captured on phones (96%), and mood logs were the most used app component (62% of logs). All measures of engagement declined over time, as illustrated by the visualizations, but each measure of engagement illustrated unique participant trajectories over time. Time was a significant negative predictor in every multilevel model. Sex and ethnicity were also significant predictors across several measures of engagement, with female and non-Hispanic participants demonstrating greater engagement than male and Hispanic counterparts. Other baseline characteristics (age, current BMI, and binge episodes in the past 28 days) were significant predictors of one measure of engagement each.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlighted that engagement is far more complex and nuanced than is typically described in research, and that specific components and mode of delivery may have unique engagement profiles and predictors. Future work would benefit from developing early engagement models informed by baseline characteristics to predict intervention outcomes, thereby tailoring digital eating disorder interventions at the individual level.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.1186/s12888-020-02698-7
Development Process and Usability Assessment of the SmartShield Web-Based Educational Module for Sexual Abuse Prevention (Preprint)
Authors: Mat Pa Mohamad Najib , Norhayati Mohd Noor , Nik Hussain Nik Hazlina , Sulaiman Zaharah , Othman Azizah , Aziz Azliana
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Child sexual abuse is a global issue, stressing the need for early prevention education. SmartShield, a web-based tool, offers accessible, interactive materials to teach school children about the dangers, signs, and prevention of abuse. When it comes to challenging topics where conventional approaches are inadequate, it emphasizes the internet's potential as an engaging education tool.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to document the process of designing and developing a web-based educational module on child sexual abuse prevention for primary school children and to assess the usability of the prototype.

METHODS

The nominal group technique (NGT) was applied for content development of the web-based educational module, involving parents, health teachers, psychologists, counsellors, and child education specialists. The prototype was developed and hosted on the OpenLearning platform. A total of 30 participants, comprising teachers and parents of primary school children, were invited to access and use the platform. They assessed its usability using the validated Malay version of the System Usability Scale Questionnaire for the Assessment of Web-Based Platform questionnaire. A usability score of 68 was set as the cut-off for a usable web-based platform.

RESULTS

The SmartShield Level 1 and SmartShield Level 2 web-based educational module were developed in local Malay language. The NGT discussion had suggested three main menus which are Front Page, Introduce Yourself, and Topics. The prototype was published in Openlearning platform. The mean (SD) usability scores was 93.1 (7.73) for SmartShield Level 1 and 92.1 (9.70) for SmartShield Level 2 which indicates that SmartShield is a usable web-based educational module and it can be used as a tool for school programs on sexual abuse prevention.

CONCLUSIONS

The SmartShield a web-based educational module, can function as a user-friendly tool for school education programs on sexual abuse prevention.
Transition from paper-based to digital systems involving Biometrics utilisation in healthcare facilities in Lusaka, Zambia (Preprint)
Authors: Hamapa Arnold , Zulu Joseph Mumba , Khondowe Oswell , Hangulu Lydia
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The transition from paper-based to digital systems in healthcare facilities has been driven by the need for improved efficiency and accuracy. Implementing biometric systems, such as fingerprint recognition, has been a significant component of this digital transformation. This study aimed to assess the transition from paper-based to digital systems utilising biometrics in healthcare facilities in Lusaka, Zambia

OBJECTIVE

to assess the transition from paper-based to digital systems utilising biometrics in healthcare facilities in Lusaka, Zambia

METHODS

A phenomenological approach was employed to gather in-depth insights from participants, including Ministry of Health officials, healthcare workers, and end-users (patients). Semi-structured interviews were conducted across selected healthcare facilities in Lusaka Province, with data collected in both English and Chinyanja. Thematic analysis using NVivo version 12 was applied to identify recurring themes and patterns related to implementing and managing biometric systems.

RESULTS

The study found that biometric systems significantly improved the efficiency of patient identification and data management. Participants reported enhanced accuracy in patient records, reduced duplication, and streamlined access to information. However, challenges such as technical issues related to power outages and privacy concerns were noted. Additionally, barriers to acceptance included a lack of information, logistical challenges, and community misconceptions about the technology.

CONCLUSIONS

The transition to digital systems, particularly the integration of biometric technologies, has demonstrated considerable benefits in healthcare settings, including improved data accuracy and operational efficiency. Despite these advantages, addressing the technical and perceptual challenges, along with enhancing community education, is crucial for maximizing the benefits of biometric systems and achieving a successful transition to digital healthcare in Lusaka, Zambia.
Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench var. bioguma) Cookies (SoKis): Source of Antioxidant and Prebiotic
Authors: Wiryawan Dwiki Maycellino , Ariestanti Catarina Aprilia , Prasetyaningsih Aniek
Published: November 2024

Sorghum bicolor L. Moench,  locally called “cantel,” is an underused local food in Indonesia, which contains resistant starch and has the potential to act as prebiotic. Several studies have also reported the role of its phytochemical compounds as antioxidants. Therefore, this study aims to determine the potential of sorghum as a source of antioxidants and prebiotic in cookies products. Sorghum was dried under various temperatures (40, 55, and 70 °C) for 4 h, ground into flour, and used in cookies production to replace wheat flour (WF) in various ratios of sorghum flour (SF):WF (0:100, 25:75, 50:50, 75:25, 100:0 % (w/w)). Phytochemical compounds were tested using the maceration method and qualitatively by assessing the color change and physical appearance of SF. Antioxidants activity was analyzed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method, while nutritional content was determined with proximate analyses. The total plate count (TPC) method was carried out to assess the growth of Bifidobacterium longum, and organoleptic test (n = 30) was performed using 5 points-hedonic scale. SF with a drying temperature of 55˚C was used as an ingredient for making cookies based on its moisture content (4.24 ± 0.084) and antioxidant activity value (70.77 ± 2.91%). The analysis results showed the presence of flavonoid, alkaloid, tannin, and polyphenol compounds in SF. Cookies with SF:WF ration of 50:50 (w/w) (SoKis) showed the best acceptance based on organoleptic test compared to the other formulation with antioxidant activity of 36.18 ± 2.56%. In addition, soKis contained 2.715% water, 1.425% ash, 24.57% fat, 8.24% protein, 63.05% carbohydrate, 0.255% crude fiber and could support the growth of B. longum with a value of 2.46 × 10 8 CFU/mL. Based on these results, sorghum could be used and developed as a functional food ingredient.
Fingerprint Metabolite of Miana (Coleus sp.) Leaf Infusion and Juice: Authentication Based on FTIR Spectroscopy and Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Syahruni Reny , Umar Abd. Halim , Matasik Lois Christfani
Published: November 2024

Miana (Coleus sp.) is a plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family and has been widely used in traditional medicine. Despite the potential of the plant, the quality and quantity of chemical components that can be extracted are dependent on various factors, such as varieties and extraction techniques. Therefore, this study aimed to discriminate miana based on varieties and extraction techniques as well as identify its marker functional groups. The 4 different leaf varieties of the plant, including purple, green, batik, and color combination were extracted using the infusion method, both with and without the addition of water. FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) fingerprint metabolite of each extract was then analyzed with IRPal 2.0 software for functional group interpretation and multivariate data analysis (PCA and PLS-DA) using MetaboAnalyst 5.0. The results showed that the chromatogram profile of all varieties and extraction techniques had similar patterns. The PCA (principal component analysis) score plot yielded a total PC value of 98.5%, which could effectively discriminate the samples. In addition, the O–H group’s VIP score value (greater than 1) was a significant functional group that characterized the samples. Based on these results, the combination of FTIR spectroscopy and multivariate analysis could be used to discriminate miana based on varieties and extraction techniques, as well as identify functional groups serving as marker.
Haematological Profile and Serum Biochemistry of Juvenile Clarias gariepinus as Biomarkers of Textile Wastewater Toxicity
Authors: Durojaiye Abiola , Ojetayo Teslim Asafe , Adedeji Helen Oluwaseun
Published: November 2024

Pollution is a global problem with hazardous consequences especially on the biotic components of the aquatic ecosystem. Blood is a useful tool in diagnosing the health condition of fish. Hence, the aim of this project was to evaluate the effect of textile wastewater on fish blood. Fish were exposed to varying concentrations of textile wastewater for 96 hours. There were four treatments including the control and others containing 0.0005 ppm, 0.002 ppm and 0.035 ppm of textile wastewater per every 35 litres of freshwater. Each treatment had one replicate with 5 fish stocked in each replicate. The textile effluent significantly reduced (p<0.05) red blood cells (RBC), packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin concentration (HGB), and white blood cell (WBC) in the other treatments compared to the control. However, the mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) were not statistically different (p>0.05) from the control. There was a significant reduction in the value of serum metabolites (total protein, globulin, glucose) of juvenile C. gariepinus after exposure to textile effluent (p<0.05). Urea, albumin, and cholesterol increased significantly (p<0.05). However, creatinine did not follow any specific trend across the treatments. The activities of Aspartate transaminase (AST) and Alkaline transaminase (ALT) were significantly higher in the exposed fish compared to the control (p<0.05). Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) recorded a significantly higher value in the control compared to the other treatments (p<0.05). There were no significant differences in the concentrations of both Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione S-transferase (GST) of fish exposed to textile effluent (p>0.05). The result revealed that the textile wastewater adversely affected the blood components of the exposed fish. It can be concluded that the presence of textile wastewater in aquatic environments could induce stress and consequently deteriorate the health of aquatic organisms.
Effectiveness of Internal Seed Quality Control Training Program on Selected PhilRice Branch and Satellite Stations: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Gahis Divine A. , Ardenio Edzel Joy C. , Ardenio Edzel Joy C. , Bulos Mary Grace L. , Galvez Jayron B. , Leon Clarizza L. de
Published: November 2024

This descriptive mixed-methods study surveys how the Philippine Rice Research Institute's (PhilRice) internal seed quality control has been enhanced by training activities. PhilRice, which focuses on generating durable and high-yielding rice varieties through exhaustive research and development, is essential to the Philippines' agricultural industry. However, problems with seed production, like low germination rates and varietal impurity, present stern difficulties to crop yields and agricultural productivity in general. The study evaluates how PhilRice's training initiatives have upgraded the expertise, abilities, and procedures of employees engaged in seed production, particularly in conserving seed quality from fieldwork to packaging. The finding reveals that the training program has enhanced seed quality control procedures, which has improved varietal purity and germination rates. However, problems like lack of resources and cultural obstacles still exist, indicating areas that require more focus. Although the training program is beneficial, the results suggest that it needs to be continuously improved for long-term success.
Assessing the Impact of Terminalia arjuna Plant Extracts on the Growth and Sporulation of Trichoderma harzianum, Aspergillus niger and Penicillium chrysogenum
Authors: Shamla A.K. , Chitra A. Vijaya
Published: November 2024

This research investigates the impact of ten medicinal plant extracts on the growth and sporulation of prominent industrial fungal strains-Trichoderma harzianum, Aspergillus niger, and Penicillium chrysogenum. The phytochemical analysis revealed a diverse array of bioactive compounds, hinting at potential antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Particularly, Terminalia arjuna consistently exhibited positive effects on fungal growth, implying a lower degree of antifungal activity, whereas Phyllanthus emblica showed variable impacts. These findings were supported by radial growth rates, highlighting Terminalia arjuna’s consistent stimulation of fungal growth. Sporulation indices and spore production further affirmed substantial sporulation in Terminalia arjuna. Comparative analyses with previous studies emphasized the unique characteristics of this extract. In conclusion, Terminalia arjuna shows distinct characteristics compared to other samples, indicating the need for additional investigation, suggests promising applications in both industrial and medicinal contexts, warranting further exploration for optimal utilization.
Valor agregado de la formación en inglés en una institución de educación superior en Colombia
Authors: Bedoya Suárez Luz Carolina , Erazo Muñoz Pablo Andrés
Published: November 2024

El inglés es una lengua internacional relevante para la comunicación intercultural. Su conocimiento genera oportunidades laborales que se traducen en el acceso a un mercado laboral más amplio y a mejores salarios. Conocer el nivel que tienen los estudiantes de educación superior en el inglés y determinar el impacto de la formación que reciben es de gran importancia para el mejoramiento de la pertinencia de los programas académicos. El objetivo general de esta investigación es conocer el valor agregado que tiene la formación en inglés en los programas de pregrado del nivel tecnológico. Para ello se realizó un estudio cuantitativo de tipo longitudinal, en una muestra de 192 estudiantes, que relaciona su nivel de inglés de entrada y salida respecto al género, horas de formación de inglés, jornada y programa académico según los niveles del Marco Común Europeo de Referencia (mcer). Los hallazgos muestran que la formación en inglés dada a los estudiantes aporta un valor significativo en el mejoramiento de sus competencias, con un tamaño del efecto d = 0,476 p<0,001, IC  95% (0,341-0,592). Además, se encontró que existe una relación entre horas de formación, la jornada, el género y los programas con los resultados obtenidos en las pruebas de inglés de los estudiantes. Finalmente, se recomienda que los programas académicos tengan en cuenta el número de horas destinadas a la formación y que futuras investigaciones realicen análisis de acuerdo con el tipo de habilidad: habla, escritura, escucha y lectura.
Review on Development of Blood Management System Application Using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Bawankar Gayatri
Published: November 2024

The Blood Management System application aims to address the growing demand for blood due to increased
transfusion needs from accidents, surgeries, and diseases. This project proposes a comprehensive design and implementation of
a blood bank and pathology lab management system utilizing machine learning techniques to predict the availability of blood
donors accurately. By forecasting donor trends, medical professionals can effectively plan for future blood supply needs and
encourage voluntary donations. The system facilitates efficient management of blood samples, donor information, and inventory
records, allowing for seamless tracking of blood types and nearby blood banks. Developed using Flutter SDK, the application
provides an intuitive interface for users to manage blood donations and monitor inventory levels, ultimately enhancing the
overall efficiency of blood banking operations.
Pericarditis bacteriana por Aeromonas hydrophila como manifestación de bacteriemia asociada a catéter venoso central en hemodiálisis
Authors: Castillo-Velarde Edwin , Huamán Vásquez Diego
Published: November 2024

Introducción: la pericarditis bacteriana es una manifestación infrecuente que debe ser considerada en el espectro de las potenciales complicaciones de un paciente con bacteriemia asociada al catéter venoso central.
Objetivo: realizar un rápido reconocimiento y manejo para evitar complicaciones potencialmente fatales.
Presentación del caso: caso clínico de una paciente, de sexo femenino y de 50 años, con pericarditis bacteriana por Aeromonas hydrophila en el contexto de bacteriemia asociada a catéter venoso central para hemodiálisis, que requirió pericardiocentesis.
Discusión y conclusión: la revisión de este caso permite establecer la condición de sospecha de una pericarditis bacteriana por componente clínico (dolor torácico) e imagenológico (nueva efusión pericárdica), además de un enfoque hacia la pericardiocentesis por prioridad para su drenaje y antibioticoterapia específica (según antibiograma) y optimizada (sinergizado y en consideración a su farmacocinética).
Mulheres de meia idade e idosas sobreviventes ao câncer de mama: revisão integrativa
Authors: Ferreti Tombini Filho Odanor , Regina da Silva Márcia , Gomes Ilha Aline
Published: November 2024

Introdução: O câncer de mama é o que mais acomete mulheres em todo o mundo e o processo de envelhecimento encontra-se entre os fatores de risco. Completar o tratamento e superar a barreira nos primeiros cinco anos torna-se um desafio e, ao mesmo tempo, uma meta para as mulheres nesta condição. Objetivo: Analisar a produção científica publicada na Biblioteca Virtual de Saúde (BVS) sobre as mulheres de meia idade e idosas sobreviventes ao câncer de mama. Metodologia: Revisão integrativa de literatura, com inclusão de 22 artigos científicos disponíveis na base de dados da BVS, cuja coleta foi realizada em dezembro 2023 por meio dos descritores “sobrevivente” or “sobreviventes” and “neoplasia de mama” and “e seus sinônimos”. Resultados: Após análise de conteúdo, emergiram cinco categorias: Estado nutricional e hábitos alimentares de mulheres sobreviventes ao câncer de mama; Efeitos do exercício físico (EF) em mulheres sobreviventes ao câncer de mama; Qualidade de vida das mulheres sobreviventes ao câncer de mama; Funcionalidade e composição corporal de mulheres sobreviventes ao câncer de mama; Resiliência e saúde sexual em mulheres sobreviventes ao câncer de mama. Considerações finais: As mulheres sobreviventes ao câncer de mama enfrentam múltiplos desafios relacionados ao estado nutricional, prática de exercício físico, funcionalidade, qualidade de vida, resiliência e saúde sexual, o que requer estratégias interprofissionais e que considerem os aspectos psicossociais, físicos e ambientais dessas mulheres.
Problems of Arctic Hydrocarbon Development in The Context of Modern Global Challenges: Development Potential and Industry Strategies
Authors: Kazanin A. G.
Published: November 2024

Significant hydrocarbon raw material potential in the Arctic territories and complex technological solutions for its development dictate the need to solve extraordinary organizational, managerial and technical tasks of strategic nature. There are economic difficulties associated with oil and gas production in the Arctic fields and, in particular, in the development of offshore facilities. The article focuses on the sectoral strategies of oil and gas complex development, which should be balanced with regional and corporate strategies. Industry strategies for the development of the Arctic oil and gas complex detail a specific set of measures that fully reflect the technological and economic capabilities of domestic companies, it is especially important to assess the achievability of strategic goals in terms of the development of offshore resources. The purpose of this study is to summarize the strategic problems of the development of hydrocarbon resources in the Arctic with the identification of options for the development strategies of oil and gas industry complexes. The methodology of the research is based on the methods of strategic management. Within the framework of solving strategic problems and tasks, it is advisable to apply various scenarios using the methods of strategic alternatives, and, in particular, matrix methods. Matrix methods allow to use the results of the analysis and offer specific alternatives that can be used as a basis for strategic choice in the development of sectoral strategies of the oil and gas complex. The scientific results of the study are determined by the generalization of the problems of the Arctic hydrocarbon potential development and the development of alternative strategy options for solving technological and environmentally-oriented strategic problems. The article presents strategic problems of Arctic oil and gas fields development. The key economic, organizational, technological, social, environmental and geo-political problems are highlighted. Technological strategies largely depend on markets and the policy of technological sovereignty. Using domestic markets or turning to external markets seems to be an important strategic choice, as it determines the level of investment costs — in-house development or purchase of technologies on open markets. For the development of breakthrough technologies in offshore hydrocarbon production, it is possible to rely on the domestic technology market to develop new technical solutions and digital systems. Environmentally-oriented strategies are based on sustainability and efficiency criteria with economic or socio-environmental aspects being prioritized. It is revealed that “green” strategies can take place, but for the development of oil and gas industrial complexes it is important to maintain a balance between production development and environmental safety.
Strategic Opportunities for Russian-Chinese Cooperation in Tourism in the Context of the Implementation of Large Cross-Border Projects
Authors: Abudemaleke A. , Chkhotua I. Z.
Published: November 2024

The purpose of the study is to identify the strategic opportunities for Russian-Chinese cooperation in the field of tourism in modern geopolitical situation, which have initiated a number of large foreign investors leaving the domestic tourism market and at the same time the formation of strategic niches for Chinese foreign direct investment in the economy, in particular, in the Russian tourism industry. Forming a favorable investment environment is an essential condition for stimulating business activity in the eastern regions of the Russian Federation for the government to undertake. On the other hand, the strategies and programs of the border regions of the Russian Far East development define the task of finding the optimal economic presence of China in key sectors of the country’s economy. The theory of strategy and methodology of strategizing by academician V. L. Kvint is defined as the theoretical and methodological basis of the study. According to the theory of strategy the primary thing when developing a new or adjusting an existing strategy of the object is to analyze trends, after that the external and internal environment, identify opportunities and determine strategic priority directions for the development of the strategized object.As a result of the research, the features of the development of Russian-Chinese cooperation in the field of tourism were determined, the portrait of the target Chinese tourist was formed, the strategic assessment of the level of infrastructure support for tourism development in the border regions of Russia and China and the strategic analysis of the regulatory and legal support for the development of Russian-Chinese tourism were carried out, the strategic priorities for infrastructural support of cross-border tourism were identified and proposals for the strategic development of cross-border Russian-Chinese tourism were formulated in general terms. The presented strategic directions and proposals for the cross-border tourism development will make it possible to realize the tourism potential of two states.
Centralization of the System of E-Participation in the Russian Federation: Expert Interviews Data
Authors: Panfilov G. O. , Chugunov A. V.
Published: November 2024

This article presents the results of the study aimed at analyzing the institutional transformations of the E-Participation system in Russia. Since 2020, the e-participation system in Russia has undergone significant transformations associated with the introduction of centralized federal resources. As a result, different institutional models have been formed in different constituent regions of the Russian Federation, implying the refusal, autonomous preservation or coexistence of regional electronic channels with federal ones. The purpose of the study is to form an assessment of the changes taking place — the centralization of the e-participation system in the regions of the Russian Federation and the change in the degree of control over the activities of regional authorities by federal authorities. To achieve the goal of the study, expert interviews were conducted with 76 respondents, who are representatives of five key groups of subjects in the process of creating and using electronic channels for civic participation. The results of the study demonstrated an ambiguous opinion of experts on the ongoing changes and confirmed that the goals of federal authorities in the implementation of centralized projects of electronic citizen participation are aimed, among other things, at increasing the political controllability of regional authorities and collecting data for consideration when making management decisions.
International Advanced Development Territories as a New Source of Investment Opportunities
Authors: Maslyuk N. A. , Medvedeva N. V.
Published: November 2024

In the new political and economic realities, the key tasks for Russia are to maintain sustainable development trends in all regions, ensure smooth functioning of economic mechanisms, and increase the country’s technological sovereignty. Solving these tasks requires the provision of resources, including investment resources. The reduction of investment opportunities in European markets leads to the need to compensate and seek new sources of investment in Asia-Pacific markets. This requires the expansion and renewal of investment attraction tools. In the article the authors analyze the experience of the regions of the Russian Far East in the use of territories of advanced development to attract foreign investment. The competitive advantages of the five sites in the Far East regions identified by the government for the creation of international advanced development territories have been high-lighted. It also characterizes the institutional framework, names the features of the model of international territories of advanced development, substantiates the necessity, defines the conditions for implementation of the legislative initiative of the Government of the Russian Federation on creation of a new format of preferential treatment. The authors believe that its institutionalization will contribute to the increase of investments in high value-added industries, expansion of high-tech production, which will strengthen the country’s technological leadership. The authors have made a conclusion about the regularity and objectivity of trends in the expansion of tools for attracting investment in the economy of regions and the country as a whole.
Visual comfort is one of the human needs in patient isolation rooms
Authors: Mohamed ELSADAT ASSASA  , Khaled KHORSHED  , Sherief AHMED EBRAHEM
Published: November 2024

Lighting passed through many stages, as the need for it has appeared since ancient times. To increase the level of lighting during the day, artificial lighting is sometimes used to create a state of integration to compensate for the areas where light does not reach within it. This causes a condition of anxiety and disturbance. The current research addresses the study of the efficiency of natural lighting within healthcare buildings, specifically patient isolation rooms, which requires more of this sample of research. As natural lighting is provided within the vacuum of the patient’s isolation room, one of the causes of comfort, specifically visual comfort, The isolation room reduces stress and reflects positively on the patient’s psychological condition, to achieve comfort, calm and relaxation. It is a basic requirement for the quality of human life in healthcare facilities, as stated in Egypt’s Agenda 2030, which emphasizes supporting patients and providing all necessary means for their safety and security.
Educação e diversidade sexual: um estudo das representações sociais de docentes acerca da diversidade sexual em contexto escolar
Authors: BARREIROS Douglas Paulino. , BRÊTAS J. R. S.
Published: November 2024

This article is an excerpt from a Doctoral thesis in Science with a focus on education. The explanatory, qualitative study was developed over the years 2018 to 2021, having as a corpus of analysis the set of thirty interviews with elementary school teachers. The research was based on the Theory of Social Representations, by Serge Moscovici (2015) and Content Analysis, by Laurence Bardin (2016). The present text exposes the methodology used in the research, its organization and the synthesis of the results. Contrary to speculations that teachers would be spreading the so-called “gender ideology” and through it putting at risk “normal” patterns of sexuality, gender and the traditional family, the results revealed that the studied group is, in fact, conservative, religious fundamentalist. and avoids addressing the issue of sexual diversity in classes and other pedagogical actions. The silencing around this theme stems from the precarious teacher training, but also because of the fear of suffering reprisals from the students' families, school management or governments.
Esplendor y ornato barroco. El altar de plata de la capilla de San Segundo (Ávila), un conjunto de Manuel García Crespo y Juan Manuel Sanz de Velasco
Authors: SÁNCHEZ SÁNCHEZ David
Published: November 2024

La capilla de San Segundo, anexa a la cabecera de la catedral de Ávila, vivió una transformación integral durante el siglo XVIII, hasta erigirse como un espacio barroco en su concepción arquitectónica, ornamental y litúrgica. Entre las obras realizadas destaca, por su sobresaliente calidad, un conjunto de piezas de plata destinadas al exorno del altar. En este artículo se ofrecen datos inéditos sobre el proceso de creación y entrega, que zanjan las dudas existentes sobre su autoría. También se analiza el discurso simbólico que incorporan las obras, acorde a su uso primigenio, destinado a un espacio de singular valor histórico y patrimonial.
Book Review: Social Stock Exchanges: Catalyst for Impact Investing?
Authors: SINGH PARVEEN KAUR HARNAM
Published: November 2024

Part of the Springer Sustainable Finance series, this book aims to fill the
gap in research on impact exchanges (IE) or social stock exchanges (SSE),
which this reviewer concurs is a “young research field.” It also targets
“under-researched” institutional investors and the extent to which they can
be matched with the alternative asset classes in social entrepreneurship.
Employing interviews with members of the European Union High-
Level Group, the author, among others, reviews the literature on current
taxonomies, the current state of SSEs, considers what it currently does well,
what can be improved, and how it impacts capital redirection in the financial
market.
With the Malaysian prime minister recently announcing the launch of
“Malaysia’s first social exchange” fronted by the Securities Commission (SC),
and its incoming framework (SC, 2024; Tay, 2024), this book has layered
appeal, from impact funders to academicians. In this region, the book acts as
a precursor to the concept of SSEs for policymakers, stakeholders, regulatory
agencies, impact funders, and even social enterprises, as well as nongovernmental
organisations exploring more structured alternative financing.
As it focuses on IEs and SSEs within the larger context of impact investing,
it should also be on the bookshelves of academicians or researchers who are
interested in the future direction of the increasingly converging intersection
of doing well and doing good, i.e., the comingling of finance and social or
environmental goals. A resurgence in adopting SSEs within Asia further makes it all the more relevant to regional policymakers, industry players
and academicians alike.
COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination rate in patients with psoriasis treated with biologics: A single center experience
Authors: Milcic Danijela , Malinic Marija , Cirkovic Andja , Krupnikovic Doroteja , Milinkovic-Sreckovic Mirjana
Published: November 2024

Background/Aim. Psoriasis is a chronic, immune-mediated, genetically
determined disease, which is manifested by the appearance of erythematous
scaly plaques. Treatment includes conventional therapies and biologics. The
coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) raised widespread concern for patients
with psoriasis treated with immunosuppressive drugs, especially biologics.
Even though there was no data at the beginning of the pandemic on the
efficacy and safety of vaccines against COVID-19 in patients with psoriasis
treated with biologics, the National Psoriasis Foundation (United States of
America) recommended vaccination in these patients. The aim of this study
was to evaluate the influence of COVID- 19 on clinical characteristics and
quality of life of psoriatic patients treated with biologics and evaluate
the effectiveness of biologic therapy during the pandemic. Methods. A
retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the Clinic of
Dermatology and Venereology of the University Clinical Center of Serbia from
March 2020 to January 2022. Data was collected from medical documentation
during the consecutive hospitalization of patients with psoriasis who
received biologics. Results. The study included a total of 181 patients with
psoriasis divided into two groups. Patients from each group were treated
with different biologics (ustekinumab in 63.0% and secukinumab in 37.0% of
patients). They achieved significant improvement regarding their clinical
characteristics after a two-year follow-up [Psoriasis Area and Severity
Index (PASI) before treatment: 14.1 (0-50.5) and after treatment: 1.2
(0-49.7), p < 0.001] and quality of life [Dermatology Life Quality Index
(DLQI) before treatment: 15.0 (0-34) and after treatment: 0 (0-28), p <
0.001]. Due to unsatisfactory therapeutic response in 4 (2.2%) patients,
secukinumab was changed to ustekinumab. The vaccine against COVID-19 was
given to 53.0% of patients, but only 20.4% received all three doses.
Infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)
was confirmed in 64 (35.4%) patients, and 68.0% of those infected contracted
the disease before the first dose of the vaccine. Therapy with biologics was
delayed due to SARS-CoV-2 infection in 52 (28.7%) patients, of which 11
(21.2%) had exacerbation of psoriasis. Conclusion. The vaccination rate in
patients with psoriasis receiving biologics was hardly 50.0%, and about a
third of the vaccinated patients had a milder form of COVID-19. The therapy
with biologics was successful regardless of the short-term interruption of
drug administration due to the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic and the
worsening of psoriasis in some patients during that time.