bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physico-Chemical, Microbiological and Antioxidant Properties of Some Local Honey Samples from Senegal
Authors: Aidara Souleymane , Dieng Assane , Diop Amadou
Published: October 2021

Honey is one of the most pleasant food substances for humanity. It has many properties and contributes to the improvement of human nutrition. In Senegal, honey is an object of many speculations as for its origin and its physico-chemical and microbiological qualities. In this context, our study aims to evaluate the quality of local honey. Our study focused on six honey samples. Physico-chemical and microbiological analyses were carried out to evaluate the quality of the honey samples. The water content of the honey samples varied from 7.86 to 14.96 %. As for the ash content, the results varied from 0.13 to 0.45 %. The pH of the honey samples varies from 4.60 to 5.05, except for sample E5 which is 6.68. The total acidity values of the honey samples ranged from 10 to 26.5 mEq/kg. The IC50 values for the evaluation of the antiradical activity of the honey samples ranged from 145.05 to 189.40 μg/mL. The honey samples were generally compliant to the microbiological parameters studied, with the exception of samples E2 and E3 for which we had the presence of coliform for both samples and the presence of yeast and mold for sample E2 only.Given the results of this study, it would be necessary to do a more comprehensive study on as many local samples as possible.
Design of a Miniaturized Implantable PIFA with DGS for the Investigation of Uterus Fibroids
Authors: Samad Mousume , Rahman Mostafizur , Shamim S. M.
Published: October 2021

Continuous follow-up of unusual fibroids growth in the uterus is critical for minimizing the unwanted complexities of female’s certain health conditions. This article presents an implantable circular-shaped multi-facet PIFA for early detection of uterus fibroids. The radius of the circular antenna is 7.5 mm with the dimension of π × (7.5)2 × 1.58 mm3. The antenna has maximum return loss of 37 dB at 2.43 GHz, is suitable for ISM band use. Being low profile makes it entirely implantable in uterus. To expand the radiation efficiency and enhance the bandwidth two dielectric substrates of FR-4 and Rogers RO 3210 with each thickness of 0.79 mm are utilized. Top and bottom sides of the antenna have covered with Teflon to ensure biocompatibility. Defected ground structure has been used for size reduction as well as bandwidth increase. The performance of the antenna is also investigated in free space, biocompatible layer, and uterus layer. The estimated specific absorption rate is 0.36 W/kg when implanted in uterus.
Calibration of Ångström-Prescott Coefficients to Estimate Global Solar Radiation in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Djoman Maurice Aka , Ferdinand Fassinou Wanignon , Memeledje Augustin
Published: October 2021

In this study, we used monthly mean daily global radiation data and sunshine durations from nine (9) weather stations in Côte d’Ivoire to determine the annual Ångström-Prescott coefficients. The calibration of the Ångström-Prescott equation has been done through linear regression using the least square method. The empirical coefficients obtained are utilized to predict the global horizontal irradiance over the nine (9) weather stations of interest. Estimated and measured global radiations were compared using the root mean square error (RMSE), the mean bias error (MBE), the mean absolute bias error (MABE), the mean percentage error (MPE), the Nash-Sutcliffe coefficient of efficiency (NSE), and the statistic -test (). The low values of the statistic t-test (from 0.10 to 1.07) and MPE (from -0.413 to 0.201) indicate a good performance of the model. The high values of the coefficient of determination R² (from 0.9776 to 0.9916) show a remarkable agreement between predicted and measured global solar radiations. This remark is also confirmed by the high values of NSE (from 0.8671 to 0.9819) closer to 1. The obtained values of MBE (from -18.17 to 8.69 kWh/m²), MABE (from 7.16 to 8.52 kWh/m²), and RMSE (69.1 to 167.3 kWh/m²) show a low deviation or bias between the estimate and the measurements. The Ångström-Prescott coefficients determinants are consistent and can be used to efficiently calculate the global horizontal irradiance. The model established can be recommended to be used in the nine (9) weather stations to accurately estimate global solar radiation on horizontal surfaces.
Ambiguidades e desafios da decisão (judicial) de intervenção junto aos homens autores de violência contra mulheres
Authors: Carvalho de Oliveira Anderson Eduardo , Thorstensen Possas Mariana , Silva Matosinhos Isabella
Published: October 2021

A lei Maria da Penha, em sua redação original, previu a possibilidade de criação de “centros de educação e de reabilitação para os agressores”. Porém, a implementação desses mecanismos ainda está muito aquém das necessidades registradas. Não há consenso sobre a importância de se investir na execução de trabalhos junto a homens autores de violência, estabelecendo-se, muitas vezes, um debate polarizado entre os diversos atores sociais. Neste artigo, buscamos identificar os argumentos mobilizados para justificar a implementação dos serviços, bem como aqueles que funcionam como obstáculos, partindo da análise de documentos e catorze entrevistas realizadas com colaboradoras/es que se autodeclararam feministas ou pró-feministas e que participaram em atividades de formulação e monitoramento da lei Maria da Penha e/ou nos trabalhos de implantação e implementação dos serviços de responsabilização e educação no país. Ao final, destacamos a importância do enfrentamento efetivo deste debate na esfera pública, a fim de contribuir para a consolidação de uma política nacional de atenção a homens autores de violência doméstica contra as mulheres.
Examination of pre-service chemistry teachers’ STEM conceptions through an integrated STEM course
Authors: AYDIN Sevgi , ÖZTAY Elif Selcan , EKİZ Betül
Published: October 2021

Due to international calls for the use of the integrated Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) approach to train learners pursuing STEM-related careers and citizens who are competitive problem solvers, teachers’ training for the integrated STEM approach is imperative. Given the importance of integrated STEM teacher training, this study aimed to examine how pre-service chemistry teachers’ integrated STEM conceptions have been changed through the integrated STEM course. The STEM reflection protocol was administered to 13 pre-service chemistry teachers both at the beginning and at the end of a 13-week-long integrated STEM course. The training included experiencing STEM activities, studying with mentors, and reflecting on own development. The deductive, inductive, and constant comparative data analysis revealed that most of the pre-service chemistry teachers enriched their STEM conceptions in terms of the engineering design process as a context and integration of the disciplines. However, very few participants’ STEM conceptions remained the same. Integrated STEM teacher education should include an explicit emphasis on disciplines’ integration and engineering design process to enhance pre-service teachers’ integrated STEM conceptions.
Challenges and fundamental skills for primary school teachers: Developing self-efficacy beliefs scale
Authors: SARİKAYA İsmail , SÖKMEN Yavuz
Published: October 2021

The study aims to shed light on the strengths of the primary school teaching profession and the fundamental skills that a primary school teacher (PST) should have while also taking into account the views of the PSTs. However, based on the data collected, the objective is to develop a self-efficacy belief scale (SEBS) for PSTs and teacher candidates. The first stage was carried out with 80 PSTs with at least five years of professional experience. 763 PSTs and PST candidates participated in second stage of the study. A SEBS was developed for PSTs and teacher candidates in light of the obtained data. Descriptive analysis and content analysis were used for qualitative data. The categories of being a teacher in village school, administration-colleague and parent-related problems, student self-care, pedagogical qualifications, and personal and professional development were attained concerning the challenges and fundamental skills for PSTs. Scale development steps were followed second stage of the study. The SEBS containing three sub-dimensions and 19 items is assumed to be helpful and valid and reliable metrics.
BIOACTIVITY ANALYSIS OF Annona glabra L. SEED EXTRACTS FOR WOOD PROTECTION AGAINST TERMITES (Cryptotermes cynocephalus Light. AND Coptotermes curvignathus Holmgren.)
Authors: Priadi Trisna , Chotimah Nurul , Ismanto Agus
Published: October 2021

Pond apple (Annona glabra L.) belongs to the family of Annonaceae. The seed of A. glabra contains bioactive substance that is toxic to some organisms, however the effectiveness to control wood degrading termites has not yet been scientifically reported.  This research analyzes the efficacy of A. glabra seed extract to wood degrading termites. Seed extraction was conducted using n-hexane and ethyl acetate. The paper disc test showed that the extract of A. glabra is toxic to Cryptotermes cynocephalus (dry-wood termites) and Coptotermes curvignathus (subterranean termites). The higher extract concentration (up to 63%) resulted in a higher termite mortality (up to 100%) and lower weight loss of paper sample (less than 1%).  Ethyl acetate extract of A. glabra seeds has a better toxicity effect than n-hexane extract against dry wood termites and subterranean termites.
FIXATION PROCESS OF LAMINATED BAMBOO COMPRESSION FROM CURVED CROSS-SECTION SLATS
Authors: Darmawan Teguh , Bahanawan Adik , Adi Danang S. , Dwianto Wahyu , Nugroho Naresworo
Published: October 2021

Removing the outer part of bamboo for manufacturing flat bamboo lamination has disadvantage on the density of the product. The purpose of this experiment was to investigate the fixation of compressed bamboo from curved cross-section slats. The compression of bamboo slats using densification technique was aimed for uniform density. Furthermore, steam treatments were conducted to fix the deformation. The compressed bamboo slats revealed that the density of the samples at the bottom parts increased from 0.40–0.56 g/cm3 to 0.89–1.05 g/cm3 after pressing with a compression level between 46.98–63.97%, while the samples in the middle parts increased from 0.70–0.83 g/cm3 to 1.02–1.18 g/cm3 with the compression level of 32.92–41.50%. These results were slightly higher than that of the upper parts, which was between 0.91–0.98 g/cm3. The recovery of set decreased and the weight loss increased with  increasing  temperature and steam treatment time. Fixation of compressive deformation could be achieved at 160°C within 60 minutes. The bottom parts of samples experienced a slightly greater weight loss compared to the middle parts, i.e. 8.38% and 7.49%, respectively. The anatomical structure of bamboo tended to deform during densification process. Furthermore, the steam treatments affected  the colour of densified bamboo which became darker. From this experiment, it can be concluded that the manufacture of laminated bamboo from bamboo slats can be uniformed in strength by equalizing the density at the bottom and middle with the upper parts through the densification technique. However, further research should be conducted to know the delamination and shear strength of the bamboo lamination.
THE EFFECT OF CLIMATE ON THE RADIAL GROWTH OF SCOTS PINE (PINUS SYLVESTRIS L.) IN A COASTAL MIXED STAND IN KAPISUYU, BARTIN, TURKEY
Authors: Özel Halil Barış , Yaman Barbaros , Varol Tuğrul
Published: October 2021

Scots pine is geographically the most widespread pine species in the world, and it shows different growth responses to climate and environmental factors in diverse ecological sites. We studied both the stand dynamics and climate-growth relationships of Scots pine in isolated coastal stand (recently found) in the Western Black Sea Region of Turkey. The homogeneity index of this stand has varied between 1.92-3.56. In growth-ring analyses, after cross-dating of individual chronologies, COFECHA and ARSTAN software were used respectively for chronology quality control and standardization (detrend). In this way, a 58-year-long chronology (1959-2016) of Scots pine was constructed. In addition, DENDROCLIM software was used for investigating Scots pine’s radial growth-climate relationships. Mean sensitivity changed from 0.163 to 0.331, with a mean of 0.183. Mean correlation among trees and signal to noise ratio were 0.389 and 7.012 respectively. In terms of the effect of precipitation on the radial growth of Scots pine in this site, the correlation coefficients were 0.43 (p<0.05) for December of the previous year and 0.41 (p<0.05) for July of the current year. For all the other months, precipitation had a non-significant effect. As for the maximum and mean air temperature, the correlation coefficients were 0.36 (p<0.05) and 0.40 (p<0.05) for February, and 0.40 (p<0.05) and 0.42 (p<0.05) for March, respectively. However, on the radial growth, while the maximum temperature in August had a negative effect (r= -0.26; p<0.05), minimum temperatures in February, March and July had a positive effect (r= 0.39, 0.40 and 0.34 respectively; p<0.05). It means while higher rains in July and higher temperatures in the late winter-early spring have caused the wider growth rings, the narrower growth rings have been formed in the years with higher maximum temperatures in August in the isolated coastal site of Scots pine.
FORM FACTORS AND VOLUME MODELS FOR ESTIMATING TREE BOLE VOLUME OF MAHOGANY AT COMMUNITY FORESTS IN CENTRAL JAVA
Authors: Tiryana Tatang , Khasanah Lailatul , Priyanto Priyanto , Rahaju Sri , Muhdin Muhdin
Published: October 2021

Form factors and volume models are often be used in the estimation of tree volumes. However, a few studies have developed and evaluated the accuracy of form factors and volume models for estimating tree volumes of community forests. This study aimed to formulate form factors and volume models and assess their prediction accuracy for estimating tree bole volumes of mahogany at community forests in Central Java. This study used 120 sample trees with diameters of 6–38 cm to formulate artificial and absolute form factors and to develop tree bole volume models. These form factors coupled with bole height and total height were used in simple volume equations. Regression analyses were used to develop volume models using the diameter and total height as predictors. The simple volume equations and volume models' prediction accuracy was evaluated using a cross-validation dataset and independent dataset (30 sample trees). The artificial form factor (0.68 ± 0.11) of mahogany, which was higher than the absolute form factor (0.46 ± 0.09), provided accurate estimates of tree bole volumes when it was used with the bole height instead of the total height. The volume model that uses diameter and total height produced the most accurate estimates, while the volume model that uses diameter alone provided the most practical yet reliable tool for estimating tree bole volumes of mahogany. The results of this study are useful for improving community forest management.
Akulturasi Islam Dan Budaya Jawa pada Ruang Liwan Masjid Gedhe Mataram Kotagede
Authors: Savitri Pradianti Lexa , Sumardiyanto B.
Published: October 2021

This article aims to demonstrate the acculturation of Islam and Javanese culture in the Liwan Room of “Gedhe Mataram” Mosque, Kotagede. Islamic and Javanese culture’s acculturation in the building, especially mosque, important known to add insight about the tolerance between two cultural elements that can occur in the architecture’s world. Liwan room is part of the space of a mosque which functions as a prayer area. Liwan Room at the “Gedhe Mataram” Mosque, Kotagede has a distinctive design considering this mosque is the first and oldest mosque in Yogyakarta. The development of Islam in Java, especially in Yogyakarta, resulted in the transformation of local civilizations. Islam and Javanese culture itself are two different elements and have their own value. The entry of Islamic culture to Java had an impact on the acculturation of Islam and Javanese culture, where Javanese culture had already lived during the time of the Javanese Hindu kingdoms. The method used is a qualitative research method with a philosophical approach supported by observation and library studies. As a result, there is an acculturation of Islam and Javanese culture in the Liwan Room of “Gedhe Mataram” Mosque, Kotagede in layout, interior elements and ornaments in the Liwan room.
Prinsip Arsitektur Berkelanjutan sebagai Basis Membangun Kemandirian Obyek Cagar Budaya Pesanggrahan Langenharjo Kabupaten Sukoharjo
Authors: Triratma Bambang
Published: October 2021

Pesanggrahan Langenharjo is the Heritage building that was built by Sri Susuhunan Paku Buwono X, The King of Keraton Kasunanan Surakarta Hadiningrat 1893-1939. Those building was a place where the king and his family held some activities such as a family gathering, recreation and meditation, it has a spasific location at the river side of Sungai Bengawan Solo. Most of building has suffered various serious damages because of lack of maintenance. National and local Government doesn’t have a sufficient fund for carrying out a regular reparation and recovery to those degradation processes. This research aimed to build a self capabiity for conserving Pesanggrahan Langenharjo by creating a synergic interaction with some potential factors surrounding it. Some essences of the Sustaiable Architecture were applied in formulating the concept of the Grand Design for Pesanggrahan Langenharjo for empowering the self capability in carrying out its conservation. ‘A Litle Forrest of Pesanggrahan Langenharjo’ is a grand concept which accommodate the needs of conserving a historical value of building and maintening a natural resources simultaneously. Some various activities are going to be able to be held within the area together harmoniously in order to strengthen sustainability and durability of the building and its environmrnt.
Strategi Pengembangan Arboretum Berbasis Arsitektur Ekologis di Hutan Pinus Pracimantoro Wonogiri
Authors: Limenta Bima Surya
Published: October 2021

Pracimantoro sub-district has quite high tourism potential but has not been utilized properly to improve the regional economy of Wonogiri Regency. The development of pine forests into arboretum designs is the right choice in realizing edu-tourism that pays attention to natural conservation through ecological concepts. This concept applies a forest area design with attention to environmental sustainability and forest conservation. The arrangement of pine forest tourism areas is oriented to an emphasis on preserving nature, preserving local culture, and empowering the surrounding community. The research method used is qualitative and quantitative analysis based on data from various sources. The results of this study are recommendations for the benefits of arboretum development for the Pracimantoro sub-district.
Identifikasi Potensi Wisata Situs Gua Song Gilap Di Pracimantoro, Wonogiri, Jawa Tengah
Authors: Belva A.W Raden Al Huda , Setyaningsih Wiwik , Nugroho Purwanto Setyo , Hardiana Ana , Purwani Ofita
Published: October 2021

Wonogiri regency has a huge potency, especially in its natural wealth. Limestone sites are very easy to find in wonogiri regency, but there are still many limestone sites that are not optimally managed so it is feared to be damaged and lost. The local government provides considerable support in developing the potency of the region in the field of tourism. Song Gilap Cave is one of the cave sites that has tourism potency in Wonogiri Regency, especially in Pracimantoro District. The purpose of this research is to map the tourism potency in Song Gilap Cave so that it can be developed optimally. The method of maping tourism potency in this research was carried out with SWOT analysis that discussed the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats at the site of Song Gilap Cave. The mapping resulted in several strategies for the development of the Song Gilap Cave site area which is expected to maximize the natural potential so that it can be a forum for the surrounding community to develop themselves in the education, conservation, economic, social, and cultural fields.

 
Desain Lanskap Jalan Gajah Mada Kota Pekalongan untuk Mendukung Program Pariwisata Batik
Authors: Amanulloh Resdo Hafizh Rizqi , Hadi Akhmad Arifin
Published: October 2021

Pekalongan City is known as the city of batik and batik accessed by the "Pantura" Highway. The Gajah Mada Street is the main road of Pekalongan city and has become a segment of "Pantura" Highway that important for tourism activities. Gajah Mada Street's landscape design is needed to improve the street corridor's landscape quality and attractiveness for tourism. On the other hand, Pekalongan has a vital characteristic of Batik culture. This study aims to create the landscape design of Gajah Mada Street to Support the Tourism Program of Batik, accompanied by identifying and analyzing the existing site condition of the Gajah Mada Street in Pekalongan City. The design concept applied in this research is Jlamprang batik and parang batik, two of Pekalongan's distinctive geometric-shaped batik pattern. This study's final results are the concept plan, site plan, detailed engineering design, and perspective drawings.

 
Konstruksi Atap Rumah yang Tanggap Terhadap Pasir Vulkanik pada Kawasan Wisata Gunung Agung di Bali
Authors: Pramesti Dinar Sukma , Candrawati A.A Ketut Sri
Published: October 2021

The area around Mount Agung needs a roof design that can give extra protection for the residents. The volcanic sand may cause serious danger and damage to the residents' houses since it brings a heavy load to the roof. It causes roof collapses and it dangers the residents' safety. This study was a Research and Development Research and Development by Borg and Gall with a mixed method. Roof testing was done by carrying out an FGD by inviting one expert to provide input on the quality of the product, for revising and reporting the results according to the improvements. Based on the study, it was found (1) the needs of the residents due to the roof design, (2) the suitable type of roof that is resistant to the volcanic sand, and (3) the suitable roof construction for the residents around Mount Agung. The results of the study are expected to contribute to the construction design of residents' houses around Mount Agung that can protect them from the volcanic sand. 
Standar Arsitektur Pasar Tradisional Pasca Pandemi
Authors: Hardiana Ana , Purwani Ofita , Febriyani Atika
Published: October 2021

There have been architectural standards for many types of buildings such as the ones for hospitals, hotels, and shopping malls. Those standards were developed with an assumption that we live free from contagious diseases like Covid-19. The world situation in the last decade has shown that new contagious diseases are on the rise, bringing people’s lives at risk. It is then very urgent to review the existing architectural standards to fit our new needs. This paper then focuses on a review on architectural standard, which in this case is traditional market to propose a new standard. To do that we review the existing standard and the existing literature on Covid-19, before developing a proposal for a new standard for traditional market in Indonesia. The proposal shows a revision in the layout, room size, internal and external circulation, the use of materials, lighting, and ventilation.
Pengaruh Ruang Terbuka Hijau Terhadap Psikologis Masyarakat di Kota Bekasi Khususnya Kecamatan Jatiasih
Authors: Tambunan Eva Kenny , Siahaan Uras , Sudawarni M. Maria
Published: October 2021

In the 21st century, mental health disorders such as depression is the most important challenges in urban area. Many residents in urban areas are more at risk of developing depression due to various factors such as lifestyle and unfavorable urban conditions, so we need a space that able to prevent and reduce mental health disorders for urban residents. The aims of this study to examine how the effect of the availability of green open spaces in helping to reduce the level of depression in urban areas. Research methodology that  used in this study is descriptive qualitative method, that collects primary by online survey via google docs regarding the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), and then continued with an online survey in “The Effect of Green Open Space for Society’s Psychology Communities in Urban”, as well as conducting a survey of several open space in Jatiasih District, and conducting a review of existing literature studies. The result of the analysis that has been carried out, that Green Open Space has influence on psychology, especially to help reduce depression in urban areas.
Adaptasi Ruang Berdasarkan Perilaku Penghuni Sub Komunal Rumah Instan Sederhana Sehat (RISHA), Semanggi, Surakarta
Authors: Ikhsan Fauzan Ali , Dianingrum Anita , Handayani Kusumaningdyah Nurul , Sari Pratiwi Anjar , Muqoffa Mohamad , Pitana Titis Srimuda
Published: October 2021

Sub Communal RISHA is a pilot project from the central government in collaboration with the Surakarta City Government as a solution for structuring slum settlements in Surakarta. The RISHA method facilitates the construction and installation process due to the use of a modular precast system which is also more flexible and efficient both in terms of construction time and the use of construction materials. The purpose of this research is to identify the space adaptation of Sub Communal RISHA based on the behavior of residents. This research was conducted with a qualitative descriptive method. The research location is in the area of RW 06 Rusunawa Semanggi Surakarta and the time of data collection was carried out in the period May-August 2021. Primary data was taken with several techniques, observation and Forum Group Discussion (FGD) method. The analysis was carried out using data triangulation techniques. The use of this analysis technique aims to combine all data to produce accurate and comprehensive conclusions. The results showed that there are two adaptations carried out by the residents of Sub Communal RISHA, namely adaptation by adjustment and adaptation by reactions.
Identifikasi Peran Masyarakat dalam Pembangunan Kampung Kota Berkelanjutan
Authors: Yuliani Sri , Nugroho Purwanto Setyo , Iswati Tri Yuni
Published: October 2021

Sustainable City Development can be achieved with the active role of actors in development activities, one of which is the role of the community. This study aims to identify the role of the urban Kampung community in the sustainable development of Kampung Kota. The research location is in the city of Surakarta with a sample of Kampung Gendingan RW 15, Kelurahan Jebres, Kecamatan (district) Jebres. The study used qualitative methods, through observation, interviews and discussion groups with swot analysis. The results showed that the role of the community in the development of the urban village can be applied to the participation of concept formulation, design and management. The three roles of the urban village community will be able to form a unique and sustainable village model.
A Comparison of Postoperative Surgical Outcomes among Women Undergoing Obstetric Fistula Repair with and without HIV
Authors: Ganesh Prakash , Mernoff Rachel , Dikkers Renske , Nundwe William , Pope Rachel
Published: October 2021

Background and Objective: Obstetric fistula affects approximately 2 million women worldwide, predominantly in places with a high Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) burden. In Malawi, where thousands of women live with fistulas, HIV prevalence is 11-13%. Although repair is usually successful, surgical outcomes among immunocompromised women are poorly understood. Inconsistent guidelines regarding the Cluster of Differentiation 4 (CD4) threshold necessary for repair make it difficult for surgeons to make informed decisions. This study compares the postoperative outcomes of women undergoing obstetric fistula repair with and without HIV, stratified by CD4 count.
Methods: This is a retrospective case-control study using a database of women who underwent vesicovaginal fistula repair at the Fistula Care Center from 2010-2018. HIV-positive participants, stratified by CD4<350 and CD4>350, were matched to HIV-negative controls by age within 5 years and Goh classification. Controls were matched to cases in a 3:1 ratio. Bivariate analysis and logistic regression were conducted on indicators based on HIV status and CD4 count stratification. Outcomes included dye test results, pad weights, and continence status at 2 weeks post-repair.
Results: 54 seropositive women were matched to 135 seronegative women. Of the 54 HIV positive women, 22.2% (n=12) had a CD4 count < 350. We found no statistically significant difference in surgical outcomes between HIV-positive and negative patients. 93.5% of HIV positive and 90% of HIV negative women healed completely. In our sub-analysis of 12 seropositive women with CD4<350, we found a statically significant difference in successful closure, with 25% of women with CD4<350 having a positive dye test indicating incomplete closure, compared to 2.8% of women with CD4>350 (p=0.024).
Conclusion and Global Health Implications: Our analysis confirms previous research indicating that seropositive women with a CD4>350 can safely undergo obstetric fistula repair. Further research is needed to evaluate postoperative outcomes among women with CD4<350.
 
Copyright © 2021 Ganesh et al. Published by Global Health and Education Projects, Inc. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License CC BY 4.0.
Simulating Crack Development and Failure Characteristic of Toppling Rock Slope under Seismic Loading on Lancang River in China
Authors: Liu Shiqi , Wang Huanling , Meng Qingxiang , Yan Long
Published: October 2021

Toppling rock slopes, induced by rapid and continuous downcutting of Lancang River, are widely distributed in the mountainous area of southwest China. To investigate the instability mechanism of 1# toppling rock slope of Huangdeng Hydropower Station under seismic loading, particle flow code (PFC) is applied to simulate the dynamic response and failure mode. The study considers the particle characteristics of displacement, velocity, energy, and cracks. According to numerical results, the potential failure mechanism of toppling rock slope is identified: multisliding surfaces form at the interfaces between the highly and moderately toppled rock mass and between the highly/moderately and weak toppled-crept rock mass; intersecting faults cut rock mass at the toe, leading to shear-toppling deformation; tension cracks develop, penetrate, and coalesce in the weak toppled-crept rock mass, resulting in tension-toppling-bending deformation. During the 2 to 5 s of strong seismic intensity, crack increases sharply and energy of particles fluctuates greatly. The impacts of the amplitude of seismic loading and loading method in PFC are investigated. This study will provide a practically useful reference for seismic design of rock slopes.
Development of Crustal-Scale Shear Zones at the Singhbhum Craton–Eastern Ghats Belt Boundary Region: A Critical Review of the Mesoarchean–Neoproterozoic Odyssey
Authors: Ghosh Gautam , Ganguly Proloy , Karmakar Shuvankar , Bose Sankar , Mukhopadhyay Joydip , Ghosh Susmita
Published: October 2021

A number of crustal-scale shear zones have developed along the southern margin of the Singhbhum Craton, in the boundary with the Neoarchean Rengali Province and the Meso-Neoproterozoic Eastern Ghats Belt. The cratonic part, evolved in a suprasubduction zone setting, bears imprints of late Mesoarchean orogenic episode (D1C) at ca. 3.1 Ga with folding and thrust imbrication of the cratonic rocks. The succeeding orogenic imprint is etched in the Neoarchean (~2.8 Ga) with development of the Sukinda thrust along the craton margin and thrust-related deformation of the rocks of the Rengali Province (D2C-D1R). The latter event remobilized cratonic fringe with development of a spectacular E-W trending transpressional belt in the Southern Iron Ore Group rocks cored by the Sukinda ultramafics. In the Eastern Ghats Belt, the major ultrahigh-temperature orogeny took place during the Grenvillian-age (~1.0-0.9 Ga) assembly of the supercontinent Rodinia. This belt eventually got juxtaposed against the expanded Singhbhum Craton in the end-Neoproterozoic time (~0.5 Ga) along the Kerajang Fault Zone. This latter event remobilized a large part of the Rengali Province (D2R) with development of an intraterrane transpressional belt bounded by the Barkot Shear Zone in the north. The northern fringe of the intruding Eastern Ghats Belt developed a complex network of strike-slip fault system under this impact, probably an outcome of tectonic activity along the Kuunga suture, which signifies the joining of greater India with East Antarctica. The present synthesis visualizes early development in the craton through formation of a typical orogenic sequence, imbricated in thrust piles, resulting from a ca. 3.1 Ga orogeny. Further cratonic expansion was achieved via repetitive accretion and remobilization, development of crustal-scale faults and transpressional belts at ca. 2.8 Ga and ca. 0.5 Ga, much in a similar fashion as documented along oblique convergent margins of all ages.
Entangled Entrepreneurial Competitiveness Advantage: An Opinion Paper
Authors: Greco Francesco , Matta Lucio
Published: October 2021

The economic action of any individual seems to be guided by psychological components belonging, often more to the sphere of the intuitive rather than to the logical mind. Cognitive Economics, unlike other critical approaches to neoclassical rationality, is aware of this reality and moves the center of gravity of the theory of the mind of the economic actor from the aspects of conscious, explicit, intentional, and rational towards the tacit, sub-conscious, intuitive and emotional. Cognitive Economics, as empirical theory, par excellence, does not refuse to consider the contribution of the mind to an economic decision. The role of the psyche in many situations of choice is undeniable. It is not, however, the only cognitive reality responsible for economic choices. From this point of view, the concept of limited rationality, remaining within a vision of intentionality in cognitive activities, loses much of its explanatory capacity. One of the motives for economic action is limited rationality because there is not enough computational capacity for calculating the consciousness and the intentions of the human mind. Rationality is also limited through the influence of intuitive, affective, emotional, and silent factors, which all characterize what we have called the intuitive mind. The economic actor’s mind theory is based on cognitive duplicity, integrating the insensitive and the intuitive component depending on the situations and contexts of a decision. However, there are few situations in which we can say that the insensitive component takes the decision without influence of that intuitive. A small part of the mind emerges to the surface image of the economic actor, which characterizes some of the intuitive. But it rests on the larger submerged body of the mind, which is not visible but responsible for guiding the inferential paths of homo-economicus. The’ cognitive economy assumes that this duality of the human mind and the primacy of the intuitive component explains economic action.
Racial Disparities in Pre-tax Wages and Salaries in Largest Metropolitan Areas in the United States
Authors: Ray Achintya
Published: October 2021

The article deals with racial disparities in the distribution of pre-tax wages and salaries for employed individuals in the USA between the ages of 18-65. This study is done for the ten largest metropolitan areas of the USA using the 2019 American Community Survey data. The metropolitan areas included in the study are Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, New York-Newark-Jersey City, Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, and Washington-Arlington-Alexandria. Employing well over a quarter of the total employed labour force in the USA, these ten metropolitan areas are also some of the largest industrial worlds. Average pre-tax wages and salaries, the standard deviation of the mean and Gini coefficient by major racial categories are presented for each of these ten metropolitan areas. For each metropolitan area, black employed individuals earned less in pre-tax wages and salaries than white employed individuals. The Gini coefficient of black pre-tax wages and wages is also found to be smaller for each of the metropolitan areas compared to the white counterparts. It suggests a much tighter distribution in pre-tax wages and salaries for blacks compared to whites. Furthermore, employed workers from other races earned less in pre-tax wages and salaries than their white counterparts for each major metro. Except for Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim metropolitan area, black employed workers also earned less pre-tax wages and salaries than members of the other races. The Gini coefficients of pre-tax wages and salaries for various metropolitan areas for different races are found to be broadly comparable and often larger than that of the whites. Together, these results point to the fact that the pre-tax wages and salaries of black workers are lower compared to both whites and other races and more tightly distributed. Lastly, the relative inequality between whites and blacks and others and blacks often point to the relatively broader dispersion in the later group compared to the former.
A RARE FOREIGN BODY IN THE CHEST UNDER COVID-19 EPIDEMIC CONDITIONS
Authors: Duzhyi Ihor D. , Holubnychyi Stanislav O. , Miroshnichenko Yuriy I. , Yasnikovskyi Oleh M. , Hresko Ihor Ya. , Pak Stepan Ya.
Published: October 2021

One of the negative factors of civilization around the world is the significant growth of injury rate. The manifestations of the latter include suicidal acts that occur in the process of social and individual life. Sometimes people commit suicide because of having incurable diseases. Alcohol addiction contributes to suicide risk.
To share with the general medical community the rare case of suicidal trauma which seemed fatal but resolved favorably, though it was not immediately verified. Only after performing a radiological examination in two projections, the subject of suicidal action was detected.
We observed a case of a suicide victim: a 55-year-old patient who, being impaired by alcohol, decided to commit suicide after learning about COVID-19 mortality. One hour later he was admitted to the emergency department.
After stabbing himself with a kitchen knife, a 55-year-old patient called an ambulance and was delivered in satisfactory condition to the emergency surgical department 1 hour after the injury. There were no signs of bleeding or its consequences or manifestations of vena cava compression. Hemodynamics was stable; there were no external respiration disorders. Clinical blood test was within normal range. Revision of the wound in the lower neck was performed. At a depth of 2.5 cm, something perceived as a sternal notch was located manually, which later turned out to be a foreign body. Due to the location of the injury, it was decided to hospitalize the injured patient for observation. Plain and lateral radiography was performed. Longitudinal sternotomy was chosen for access. Under the entrance wound in the neck, in the lateral mediastinum above the root of the lung, a knife was found above the diaphragm penetrating the parenchyma of the lower lobe. After removing the knife, the lung wound was sutured. The postoperative period ended successfully.
Before surgery, an imaging study with at least two different views is mandatory for all chest wounds. If possible, thoracotomy should be scheduled for the daytime.
THERAPY OF PATIENTS WITH ANXIETY DISORDERS AND METABOLIC SYNDROME X
Authors: Kaushanska Olena V. , Zaliavska Olena V. , Nika Olha M.
Published: October 2021

Objective of the research: to investigate the efficacy and safety of Afobazole in the treatment of adult patients with anxiety disorders and metabolic syndrome X.
The study included 60 adult patients (18–65 years) (36 men, 24 women), whose clinical picture revealed mild and moderate forms of neurotic disorders observed in the therapeutic hospital and outpatient service. The main group (30 people) and control group (30 people) were formed on the basis of representativeness by gender and age (χ2emp <χ2krit, p ≤ 0.01). The sample consisted of patients who signed a written informed consent to participate in the study. The average age of the patients in the control group was 44.81 ± 2.17, in the main group ­– 45.13 ± 2.34 (p < 0.01); the average age of onset of mental disorders in the main group was 33.2 ± 3.1 years; in the control group it was 34.1 ± 3.4 years (p < 0.05); the average duration of psychopathological symptoms in the main group was 5.6 ± 0.6 months, in the control group – 5.8 ± 0.3 months (p < 0.05). The duration of treatment equaled 1 month of active therapy (later, the patients were transferred to maintenance therapy outside this study). Afobazole containing 0.01 g of active substance per tablet was used for treatment. The drug was prescribed 3 times a day (morning, afternoon and evening); the dose of the drug was increased: 1–1–2 (number of tablets per administration).
There were changes in psychometric scaling, i.e. a significant decrease in state (by 57.2 and 42.9%; p ≤ 0.001) and trait (by 23.8 and 23.3%; p ≤ 0, 01) anxiety on the Spielberger–Khanin scale in the main and control groups at the end of treatment. In all groups of patients, we noted complete recovery (38.4%) or a significant improvement (37.9%); for most patients with mild manifestations, complete recovery was observed in 92% of cases. Among patients with moderate manifestations, a good response was recorded in 75% of cases; for the rest, moderate and minimal effects were observed, respectively. The changes in the severity as compared with baseline values were significantly positive (p < 0.05) already after 7 days of Afobazole therapy; similar changes were noted in the indicators of the overall effectiveness of therapy. No positive changes after Afobazole therapy were observed in 3.3% of cases, deterioration was registered in 3.3% of cases, while in the control group these values were 6.6% and 3.3%, respectively. The changes in somatic indicators also had positive trends in the control and main groups – SBP reduced by 11.0% and 18.0%, respectively (p ≤ 0.05); DBP – by 4.4% and 14.9% (p ≤ 0.05).
The therapeutic effect of Afobazole is the reduction of viscero-vegetative manifestations of anxiety disorders, including relief of breathing, normalization of blood pressure and heart rate, reduction of muscle tension and pain, sweating and dizziness.
CLINICAL AND FUNCTIONAL INDICATORS OVER TIME IN OVERWEIGHT PATIENTS WITH BRONCHIAL ASTHMA RECEIVING STANDARD THERAPY VS. STANDARD THERAPY WITH A COMPLEX OF REHABILITATION MEASURES
Authors: Zaikina Julia A.
Published: October 2021

The combination of bronchial asthma and obesity leads to increased severity of bronchial asthma course and poorer control level, the development of resistance to basic therapy, and increased frequency of hospitalizations. Modern approaches to the treatment of bronchial asthma and obesity suggest that more attention should be paid to comprehensive rehabilitation programs using methods aimed at all pathogenesis stages of this combination of diseases.
Objective: to analyze changes in clinical and functional indicators over time in overweight patients with bronchial asthma receiving standard therapy vs. standard therapy with a complex of rehabilitation measures
The study involved 102 overweight patients (body mass index (BMI) ≤ 39.9 kg/height, m2) with persistent asthma of moderate severity aged 35–60 years. The patients were divided into 2 groups. Group I included 72 patients receiving standard pharmacologic therapy (budesonide 160 μg and formoterol 4.5 μg) along with a diet close to the Mediterranean diet, as well as a complex of rehabilitation measures, which included Buteyko breathing technique plus respiratory gymnastics and dosed walking. Group II (30 patients) received only standard pharmacologic therapy along with a diet close to the Mediterranean diet. The duration of the therapy was 6 months. All patients underwent general clinical studies, spirometry, the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) with dyspnea assessment according to the Borg Dyspnoea Scale, surveys using the Asthma Control Questionnaire-5, St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), Beck Depression Inventory, and Spielberger–Khanin Anxiety Inventory.
It was found that the patients receiving treatment along with physical rehabilitation measures presented with more pronounced positive changes, so the indices of FVC and 6MWT medians in Group I were 6 times and 2.4 times higher, respectively. The changes in ACQ5, SGRQ, BDI, and SAI-t score medians in Group I were also more prominent and exceeded the values in Group II by 1.8 times, 4.4 times, 2.5 times, and 3.5 times, respectively.
Inclusion of physical rehabilitation measures, i.e. Buteyko breathing technique, respiratory gymnastics, and dosed walking, contributes to a significant increase in FEV1 and statistically significant improvement in quality of life and psychological status after 6 months of therapy.
FINDINGS ON THE CORRECTIVE EFFECT OF MINERAL DILUTED SODIUM CHLORIDE WATER FROM WELL NO. 1 OF OCHAKOV CITY UNDER THE CONDITIONS OF METABOLIC SYNDROME SIMULATION
Authors: Bakholdina Olena I. , Oleshko Oleksiy Ya. , Gushcha Serhiy H. , Yaroshenko Natalya O.
Published: October 2021

In the experiment, the effect of low-mineralized mineral diluted sodium chloride water with internal use on the body of animals with experimental metabolic syndrome (MS) was studied. 60 female white rats were divided into three groups of 20 animals each. Group 1 consisted of intact animals; group 2 consisted of animals with MS; group 3 consisted of animals with MS model, which received diluted mineral water (DMW).
Objective: to investigate the effect of diluted mineral sodium chloride water from well No. 1 of Ochakov on the state of the organism of rats with the MS model.
It was found that the development of the MS model in rats of group 2 was accompanied by a violation of lipid-carbohydrate metabolism (a significant increase in the content of glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides), impaired function of the urinary system, and a significant increase in the body weight of the animals. Signs of the development of endogenous intoxication were revealed – a significant increase in the level of circulating immune complexes and an increase in the level of molecules of average weight. The suppression of detoxification processes was established, as evidenced by a significant increase in the content of creatinine and urea (p < 0.05); that is, there is a cascade of pathological changes from various body systems, which proves that MS is a multiple organ pathology. In rats of the 3rd group, the use of DMW led to a limitation of the development of pathological processes: it was established that the indicators of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism were restored – the level of glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride significantly decreased compared with the group of rats with uncorrected pathology. Weight gain was also significantly lower. The positive effect on the urine of the educational and excretory function of the kidneys, the restoration of the content of creatinine, urea, the level of average weight molecules, circulating immune complexes, and the activation of phagocytosis processes were determined, which contributed to a decrease in the intoxication load by increasing the detoxification capabilities of the body. The discovered effects indicate the presence of corrects the actions of the DMW in the conditions of experimental MS, which makes it possible to recommend further clinical trials.