bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tips and Tricks in the Management of Megameatus Intact Prepuce Variant of Hypospadias: A Review Article
Authors: Musa Muhammad , Yunusa Bashir , Mashi Sharfudeen , Babagana Abubakar , Sadiq Muhammad , Suleiman Abdulmajid
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Hypospadias is congenital anomalies with various spectrum and variants, presenting with abnormal urethral meatus short of the native tip of the glans. megameatus intact prepuce is a rare variant of glanular hypospadias seen in about 3-6 % of hypospadias cases. The main features of megameatus intact prepuce are large urethral external meatus with deep with deeply grooved glans penis and the preputial skin is usually present and intact with no chordae. Seven named procedures for megameatus intact prepuce were discussed. Methodology: We use the following search engines for out study where we found the following articles and reviews as follows in Scopus search, we found 26 articles, in AJOL we there were 7 articles and in PubMed Central Search we found 32 articles, then in Google scholar the search revealed 388 articles, 45 articles were reviewed and summarised and 7 established procedures were discussed. Results: Seven named established procedures for megameatus intact prepuce variant of hypospadias were summarized and discussed and include Pyramid Procedure, Glanular Approximation Procedure, Tubularised Urethral Plate Urethroplasty, Tubularised Incised Urethral Plate Procedure, Mathieu Technique, Cutaneous advancement procedure and The Inframeatal Vascularised Flap Procedure. DISCUSSION: The Surgical procedures for repair of megameatus intact prepuce is technically challenging not only for the surgeon but the anesthethiogist alike because the patients are paediatric with small organs, therefore appropriate instruments and proper timing of the surgical intervention is paramount. Duckett and Keating et al in their study identified the first challenge is to identify those patients who truly need surgical repair. In a study by Marc Cendron et al they found out that the features identified as important in the decision-making process were (1) meatal opening close to or below the coronal margin; (2) A deep glans cleft; (3) a wide, splayed-out glans; and (4) an abnormal urinary stream if witnessed. in a study by Duckett JW, Keating MA, Hatch DA et at and Austin Hill G, Wacksman J they reported a satisfactory outcome with the various described surgical procedures. Conclusion: The tip and tricks of the surgical procedures of megameatus intact prepuce rare variant of hypospadias is a review article to aimed to improve on the surgical outcome including normal conical appearance of the glans, a urethral meatus of normal caliber, and a single, normal urinary stream with no symptoms and to minimise the complications such as urethrocutenous fistula as extracted from the expert’s vast experience and modifications of the existing techniques, in our study we summarised the experts seven established techniques and the modifications to achieve the desired objectives.
Exploring Factors Affecting Gen Y Tourists’ Pro-environmental Behavior in China
Authors: Yue Xiao , Choy Leong Yee
Published: August 2023

This research explores factors that affect Gen Y tourists' pro-environmental behavior (TPEB) in China. The research has employed an exploratory case study method and conducted in-depth interviews with 30 Gen Y tourists from China. The interviews were carried out through an online platform (i.e., QQ) to keep appropriate social distancing to avoid spreading the virus due to the recent Covid-19 pandemic. The unit of analysis of this research is the individual Gen Y tourist. The study has discovered that several factors have affected Gen Y TPEB. Among all are personal factors (demographic, psychological, emotional) and environmental factors (direct contextual, indirect contextual, background). In addition, tourist-to-tourist interaction has the most significant effect on TPEB. The research contributes significantly to the theoretical and empirical developments that enrich the pro-environmental behavior and tourism literature.
Static and Dynamic Economic Resilience Indicators for Agrifood Supply Chains: The COVID-19 Pandemic in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Carpio Carlos , Garcia Manuel , Rios Ana R. , Boonsaeng Tullaya , Murguia Juan M. , Wander Alcido
Published: August 2023

Given its enormous adverse effects on production systems and the economy, the recent COVID-19 pandemic has heightened interest in studying resilience in agrifood systems; however, only a few studies have used formal methods for resilience measurement. This study's overall objective was to identify, develop, and use indicators to measure the resilience of the agrifood supply chain. Specific research objectives were 1) to identify and develop survey-based indicators of the economic resilience of agribusinesses; 2) to use the indicators to measure and analyze the economic resilience of the agrifood supply chain in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) to the COVID-19 pandemic; and 3) to evaluate differences in the economic resilience of agribusinesses in the different supply chain stages to the COVID-19 pandemic. Data for the study were collected through two online surveys conducted in 2020 and 2022. Two resilience indicators were identified and developed: a static (SRES) and a dynamic (DRES) indicator. SRES measures the ability of businesses to avoid business losses within each study period. DRES measures firms capacity to recover business activity after an initial negative revenue shock. Study results reflect that, on average, the LAC agrifood supply chain firms in the sample were able to adapt and recover from the disruptions of a global health pandemic. The effects of the pandemic were not homogeneous across firms, nor was their adaptive resilience to the disruption.
Minding the Output Gap: A Hamilton Filter Approach and Updated Estimates for the Brazilian Economy
Authors: Rossi José Luiz , Sousa José Eduardo Gonçalves de , Gutiérrez Briceño Jose Alejandro
Published: August 2023

This paper develops an alternative approach for estimating the potential output and the output gap, intending to serve as a good balance between a simple low data requiring method and a powerful but complex structural approach. We rely on the Hamiltons Regression Filter properties to generate a statistically robust estimator of the potential Gross Domestic Product level which overcomes the problems associated to the Hodrick-Prescott filter and improves the Production Function Approach (PFA). Furthermore, we use this methodology to update the estimates of the potential output and output gap for the Brazilian economy.
External Crisis Vulnerability in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Cavallo Eduardo A , Fernández-Arias Eduardo
Published: August 2023

This paper assesses the vulnerability of Latin American and Caribbean (LAC) economies to external crises. It shows that while the average LAC economy has made significant strides to reduce vulnerability to crises to its historical minimum, there is still considerable room for improvement, compared to both advanced and non-advanced economies. When compared to other non-advanced economies, the average LAC economy displays a higher level of vulnerability, mainly due to slower improvements in portfolio composition and less accumulation of international reserves since 2000. Advanced economies have lower exposure to external risk factors and a structural resilience advantage to prevent exposure from leading to crises. This analysis highlights the need for LAC economies to focus more on enhancing their risk-mitigating strategies concerning the composition of their external portfolios and reserves accumulation, which will provide a stronger buffer against external shocks and promote overall economic resilience.
Willing but Unable to Pay?: The Role of Gender in Tax Compliance
Authors: López-Luzuriaga Andrea , Scartascini Carlos
Published: August 2023

The existing literature shows that women are more likely to pay taxes than men. Yet, there is less consensus on the gendered responses to interventions aimed at boosting tax compliance among non-payers. In this study, we exploit a field experiment designed to increase property tax compliance to investigate this gender disparity. Our findings reaffirm that women are typically more diligent in paying their taxes than men. Interestingly, while the receipt of a deterrence letter prompts women to pay earlier, it does not necessarily augment their overall compliance. Conversely, men, upon receiving a deterrence letter, show a marked improvement in overall compliance. We also find that the size of the tax bill influences women's compliance behavior (the likelihood of paying'increases substantially for small bills), but not men's. To unpack this intriguing finding, we examine survey data to uncover the differing motivations and resources between genders. This analysis suggests that, although women may be more motivated to pay, they might encounter significant liquidity constraints. Our observations are consistent with a simple analytical model that correlates compliance to tax morale, risk aversion, and budget constraints. This research underscores the potential for tax policies and enforcement procedures to exacerbate income inequality between genders, especially in low tax-enforcement contexts where tax evasion is substantial.
Development Effectiveness Overview (DEO) 2023
Authors:   Inter American Development Bank,   IDB Invest,   IDB Lab
Published: August 2023

The Development Effectiveness Overview (DEO) is an annual report produced by the IDB Group to share the results and impact of its work in Latin America and the Caribbean. It showcases the IDB Group's contributions towards the development of its 26 borrowing member countries in the region and the Sustainable Development Goals, as well as progress against key institutional metrics in its Corporate Results Framework.
What are the Instruments Local Officials can use to Brand their Places?
Authors: Berrada Mohamed
Published: August 2023

Place branding is a phenomenon that has grown over the past decade as more and more places seek to become brands in the hope of creating a certain uniqueness that will distinguish them and highlight their competitive advantage to attract and retain various target customers. However, a place branding strategy must not be conceived only around the creation and the management of a place brand but also by mobilizing other ways in order to strengthen the place existence and give it a meaning in the minds of intramural and extramural customers. Thus, the aim of this article is to expose the different instruments that local officials can use as part of a general place management strategy. The instruments of place branding presented here are the place association with personalities, the construction of flagship buildings and structures, as well as the organization of hallmark events.
Complete Chloroplast Genome and Comparative Analysis of Entada phaseoloides (Fabaceae)
Authors: Hu Tingting , Chen Si , Xu Pei , Zhou Daoyuan , Zhu Qingsong
Published: August 2023

Background: Entada phaseoloides (L.) Merr (Fabaceae) is a large woody climber that is found widely in southern China and other tropical and subtropical areas worldwide. The genus Entada contains ~30 species, and E. phaseoloides is most commonly found in China. The E. phaneroneura and E. pervillei are endangered species. Previous studies had focused on medicinal components, transcriptional regulation, and nuclear genomes. The chloroplast genome of Entada has not been reported, and little is known about the phylogenetic relationships within the Entada. In this study, we performed short-read sequencing of E. phaseoloides and assembled and analyzed its chloroplast genome. Methods: Dry specimen leaves of E. phaseoloides were subjected to DNA extraction and sequenced using the Illumina Novoseq platform. The chloroplast genome was assembled using Get Organelle, annotated using CPGAVAS2 and Geneious Prime. Repeat sequences and SSR analysis were performed using the Reputer and MISA programs, respectively. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using IQTREE and MrBayes software. Result: The complete chloroplast genome of E. phaseoloides is 159,963 bp in length and has a quadripartite structure with large single copy of 89,972 bp and a small single copy of 19,309 bp separated by inverted repeats of 25,341 bp. A total of 112 genes in E. phaseoloides comprised 78 protein-coding genes, 30 transfer RNA genes, and 4 ribosomal RNA genes. The distribution of simple sequence repeats and long repeat sequences was determined. We carried out phylogenetic analysis based on homologous protein-coding genes among 21 species derived from Fabaceae. We found that the phylogeny was largely congruent with prior hypotheses about the position of E. phaseoloides in evolutionary branches. The E. phaseoloides has a closer relationship with the Piptadeniastrum africanum.
A METHOD FOR SYNTHESIS OF FAMILIES OF SETS OF PHASE MANIPULATED SIGNALS WITH OPTIMAL CORRELATION PROPERTIES
Authors:   “Vasil Levski” National Military University - Artillery, Air Defense and CIS Faculty, Shumen, Bulgaria, DIMITROV Dilyan , BEDZHEV Borislav ,   “Vasil Levski” National Military University - Artillery, Air Defense and CIS Faculty, Shumen, Bulgaria, BEDZHEVA Monika ,   “Vasil Levski” National Military University - Artillery, Air Defense and CIS Faculty, Shumen, Bulgaria
Published: August 2023

In the paper a method for synthesis of families of sets of phase manipulated signals with optimal correlation properties is substantiated. The method could be used in the development of new radar sensor networks, which exploit effectively the electromagnetic spectrum and can operate practically without self-interferences and multiaccess interferences
POLITICAL-MILITARY DOCTRINE, ITALIAN FASCIST DOCTRINE
Authors:   National University of Political Studies and Public Administration, Bucharest, Romania, CUREA Cătălina-Gabriela
Published: August 2023

Fascism was a political movement founded by Benito Amilcare Andrea Mussolini in 1919, dominating Italy's leadership between 1922-1945. In its various periods, fascism has received many different definitions, obviously based on quite different points of view. Each of them reveals to a greater or lesser extent the political essence of this contradictory and enigmatic phenomenon for the culture of the twentieth century
MY ChatGPT TEACHER. TOWARDS A METHODOLOGY FOR USING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING
Authors:   “Alexandru Ioan Cuza” University of Iasi, Romania, SUSNEA Simona Mirela
Published: August 2023

Language is the distinctive feature separating humans from the rest of the animal world. Therefore, throughout history, inventions and technologies that changed the way we use language have been crucial turning points. These include the invention of writing, which allowed the communication across space and time, the printing press, which facilitated the rapid and widespread dissemination of knowledge, and the advent of the Internet and mobile phone technology, which resulted in an explosion of communications and faster diffusion of knowledge. The latest revolutionary innovation in the field of language processing is ChatGPT, a generative AI model launched by OpenAI in November 2022, which produced spectacular results in natural language processing (NLP). It appears to be one of the most significant milestones in this field and has the potential to produce major changes in numerous domains, particularly in education. Starting from the available literature and from several experiments with ChatGPT, this paper outlines the main methodological requirements for using this instrument as an aid for self-directed learners.
INDOOR NAVIGATION: NECESSITY, MECHANISMS AND EVOLUTION
Authors:   Military Equipment and Technologies Research Agency - In Flight Test Research and Innovation Center, Craiova, Romania, ȚIGĂNIUC Daniel , NEGREA Petre
Published: August 2023

Today, GNSS-based solutions are the main technology used in the field of outdoor navigation, which provides good location and a global coverage. The issue arises in densely built-up urban areas, as well as in closed or underground spaces, where the quality of the signal from the satellites can be affected. This is where indoor navigation steps in. Considering these aspects, this paper presents some aspects regarding indoor navigation, starting from the motivation for the appearance of such navigation and presenting several scenarios where indoor navigation can be used. Also, the paper deals with the two main methods and the signal proprieties suitable for indoor navigation. Finally, algorithms and improvement methods are taken into consideration
CONSIDERATIONS FOR OPTIMIZING THE FLIGHT PERFORMANCE OF miniUAVs
Authors:   “Henri Coandă” Air Force Academy, Braşov, Romania, PRISACARIU Vasile
Published: August 2023

Unmanned aerial vehicles benefit from a series of mature technologies that transform them into data acquisition, processing and dissemination tools with high levels of impact on areas of interest and great utility for users. The paper exposes the stages of analysis regarding the upgrade process of UAV (ATM-1) from the variant of equipping a target aircraft to a superior variant that can be used for data collection, from areas of interest, in the form of static or dynamic images. The proposed variant has implications both on the air vector balance and on the performance of use due to the new onboard equipment.
STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF AIRCRAFT AGE ON FLIGHT SAFETY FOR A MEDIUM COURIER TURBOPROP AIRPLANE
Authors:   “Henri Coandă” Air Force Academy, Braşov, Romania, VOICU Marius-Alexandru
Published: August 2023

This paper introduces the connection between old aircraft and flight safety as well as the present state and potential futures for managing old aircraft. Age can be managed in two ways: retiring the aircraft and buying a newer one, or properly sustaining aging aircraft through additional and targeted maintenance. To do this, manufacturers, maintainers, operators, and owners must work together with regulators. A good way to guarantee proper maintenance is through continuing airworthiness programs and supplemental inspection programs. While the effects of aging on an aircraft can be detrimental to safety, they can be reduced with proper maintenance. If the operators follow the maintenance programs, current and future maintenance programs will operate as a preventative strategy to lessen the safety risk associated with aging aircraft.
THE STUDY OF THE THERMOELECTRIC GENERATOR DEPENDING ON THE LIGHTING LEVELS
Authors:   “Transilvania” University of Brașov, Romania, MAZILU Loreta Daniela , COTFAS Daniel Tudor ,   “Transilvania” University of Brașov, Romania, COTFAS Petru Adrian ,   “Transilvania” University of Brașov, Romania, MIRON* Ecaterina Liliana ,   ”Henri Coandă” Air Force Academy, Braşov, Romania
Published: August 2023

Whereas in the 20th century, scientists were concerned with the production of energy in huge quantities, regardless of the consequences, their interest later switched to the production of green energy from renewable sources. Nowadays, the interest has been directed towards increasing the efficiency of existent energy systems and finding other energy sources. A way to achieve these is to harvest energy from sources that generate small amounts of energy, but sufficient to power low-power devices, as well as to valorize residual energy (especially heat) that would otherwise be dissipated and lost. Since thermoelectric generators convert heat into electrical energy based on the Seebeck effect, this paper analyzes the important parameters of the TEC1-12706 thermoelectric generator, such as short circuit current, open circuit voltage, maximum power, and internal resistance in laboratory and natural conditions in function of different levels of irradiance. The performance of the thermoelectric generator is lower in real condition than under artificial light.
EW SYSTEMS MANAGEMENT. A CRITICAL REVIEW IN THE ACTUAL CONTEXT OF MULTIPLE CRISIS AND TURBULENCES
Authors:   “Transilvania” University of Brașov, Romania, MECLEA Mihai-Alin , VRĂJITORU Eugen Silviu ,   “Transilvania” University of Brașov, Romania, BOSCOIANU Mircea ,   “Transilvania” University of Brașov, Romania
Published: August 2023

The paper refers to the management of electronic warfare systems and the latest approaches in this field. Also, some important main historical milestones and new development trends in the field of EW (Electronic Warfare) are being discussed. Finally, after identifying the relationship between ECM (electronic counter measures) and ES (electronic support) and the gaps in the current research of electronic warfare systems, it has been shown how is this domain influenced in the current context of multiple turbulences and crises
THE ROLE PLAYED BY WOMEN IN THE SECURITY SYSTEM: FROM UN RESOLUTION 1325 TO DIRECT ACTIONS
Authors:   ”Carol I” National Defence University, Bucharest, Romania, CHIȘ-MANOLACHE Diana
Published: August 2023

The role of women in the security and defense system has become increasingly visible in recent decades. Since the adoption of Resolution 1325 Women, peace and security of the Security Council of the United Nations Organization, on October 31st, 2000, member countries of this international organization, including our country, have taken steps to assume and implement new policies in the field of conflict resolution, peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance, which actively involves women. On the other hand, the intrinsic importance of women in the leadership and management of military structures, makes all legislative approaches related to this subject take concrete consistency
А HYBRID SECURITY THREAT
Authors:   National University of Political Studies and Public Administration, Bucharest, Romania, CUREA Cătălina-Gabriela
Published: August 2023

According with NATO Capstone Concept for the Military Contribution to Countering Hybrid Threats and EU Joint Framework to Counter Hybrid Threats, approved a new Military Strategy that will help set out NATO’s military priorities and approach to current and future challenges, including cyber and hybrid threats, instability across the Middle East and North Africa, and a more assertive Russia.[1]Hybrid conflict is defined as a dynamic interaction between elements of hard power (consolidation of military forces, deployment of military forces and capabilities in conflict zones, financing of separatist movements, activities to destabilize and undermine the security of a state or regions) and soft power ( maintaining an economic or energy dependence, applying economic sanctions, conducting propaganda, disinformation and influence campaigns, conducting cyber attacks, etc.)[2]. Hybrid warfare encompasses a vast area of hostile actions in which military force is only a small part of a flexible strategy with long-term objectives, complemented by political, economic and informational methods.
Políticas fiscales inclusivas y a prueba de crisis
Authors: Saha Devanik
Published: August 2023

La pandemia de Covid-19 ha tenido un impacto significativo en las economías de la mayoría de los países. La diferencia está en la intensidad del impacto que varía desde contracciones económicas leves hasta crisis o recesiones devastadoras. Desde una perspectiva genérica, es evidente suponer que los países de ingresos altos (HIC) habrían lidiado con una destrucción económica más leve que los países de ingresos medios y bajos (LMIC). Sin embargo, un análisis más profundo revela que hubo varios factores que determinaron el impacto de la pandemia en un país, además de influenciar su capacidad para responder. Por ejemplo, las estructuras económicas actuales y las debilidades tuvieron un efecto notable en la capacidad de los países para brindar un estímulo fiscal adecuado. Estas debilidades siguen políticas procíclicas y no crean amortiguadores fiscales que puedan ayudar a construir mayor resiliencia. Un hallazgo interesante que surgió fue que la calificación crediticia de un país es el determinante más relevante en la respuesta fiscal al Covid-19. Esta es una de las áreas más importantes en las que los HIC tiene una ventaja notable en comparación con los LMIC. Otro desafío clave que afectó de manera desproporcional a los LMIC fue la falta de digitalización y acceso a Internet, lo que obstaculizó el crecimiento económico y la capacidad de los países para realizar transferencias de dinero y brindar apoyo rápidamente. La investigación respaldada por el Covid-19 Responses for Equity Programme (CORE), que cuenta con el apoyo del Centro Internacional de Investigaciones para el Desarrollo (IDRC), reveló algunas lecciones y recomendaciones emergentes para abordar estos desafíos y mejorar la resiliencia de los países ante futuras crisis. Una de las primeras, y más importantes recomendaciones, es que los países inviertan fuertemente en sus sistemas de salud y de protección social para sus ciudadanos, lo que ayudaría a desarrollar su resiliencia para futuras crisis. La adopción de políticas de libre comercio y evitar el proteccionismo también constituyen lecciones importantes de la pandemia. Otra lección relevante es la implementación de la perspectiva de género en las políticas monetarias y fiscales, ya que las mujeres han sido afectadas de manera desproporcional por la pandemia. Además, los países deberían adoptar políticas fiscales y monetarias expansivas en la medida de lo posible para aumentar la demanda. Por último, los estados también necesitan fortalecer sus mecanismos e instituciones financieras y reducir la interferencia política para poder ayudar a mantener la calidad de los activos en el sector bancario.
DIGITALNO RODNO ZASNOVANO NASILJE U EMOTIVNIM VEZAMA UČENIKA IZ PERSPEKTIVE NASTAVNIKA I STRUČNIH SARADNIKA U SREDNJOJ ŠKOLI
Authors: Ignjatović Tanja , Ileš Marina
Published: August 2023

Predmet istraživanja je to kako nastavnici i stručni saradnici u srednjoj školi sagledavaju digitalno rodno zasnovano nasilje u emotivnim vezama svojih učenika i kako vide svoje kompetencije i ulogu škole. Cilj istraživanja je prikupljanje i analiza stavova, iskustava, znanja i potreba nastavnika i drugog školskog osoblja u vezi sa navedenom pojavom, koja do sada nije istraživana u našem kontekstu. U istraživanju eksplorativnog tipa, kvantitativne prirode, korišćen je strukturirani upitnik, kreiran za ovu priliku. Prigodni uzorak od 209 predstavnika iz devet srednjih škola u pet gradova u Srbiji, ne omogućava generalizaciju zaključaka, ali upućuje na moguće pravce delovanja i potrebu daljih istraživanja. Rezultati ukazuju na umereno prisustvo rodnih stereotipa, više prisutno kod ispitanika iz stručnih škola i muškog pola. Većina ispitanika ne zna da li je reč o ozbiljnom problemu i nikada nije dobila informaciju o konkretnom slučaju. Oni koji imaju saznanje o ovakvim slučajevima izveštavaju o velikim razlikama u iskustvima devojaka i mladića kada je reč o svim specifičnim oblicima digitalnog rodno zasnovanog nasilja, kojem su češće i sa većim štetnim efektima izložene devojke. Skoro svaki peti ispitanik ističe slaba znanja o ovom problemu, a većina nije uključena u preventivne aktivnosti. Prema njihovom mišljenju intervencije treba da su sistemske prirode, usmerene na veći broj aktera unutar i izvan škole.
Entre o clássico e o contemporâneo
Authors: Marino Gabriela , Costa Maria Conceição da , Sacramento Jonatan
Published: August 2023

Nesse texto, propomos uma breve apresentação do campo dos Estudos Sociais da Ciência e Tecnologia e apresentamos os cinco artigos que compõe o dossiê. Nosso objetivo é convidar o público leitor a adentrar nesse campo que, em breve, completará 100 anos.
The Profile and Triggering Factors of Melasma Patients: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Putri Brillian Betrista Viorizka  , Trisniartami Setyaningrum  , Ema Qurnianingsih  , Damayanti
Published: August 2023

Background: Melasma is a skin pigmentation disorder characterized by brownish hyperpigmented lesions with symmetrical distribution and irregular borders. It becomes a cosmetic problem that causes a negative impact on quality of life and a lack of confidence in patients. The etiology of melasma is not completely understood, but several factors that trigger melasma can be explained. Yet, the profile and triggering factors associated with the prevalence of melasma patients in Surabaya are still unexplored. Purpose: To determine the profile and triggering factors of melasma patients in the Dermatology and Venereology Outpatient Unit of Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital Surabaya from January to December 2019. Methods: A retrospective descriptive study using data from medical records with a total sampling technique. Result: In this study, most of the melasma patients were female (97.5%), dominated by the age group 46-55 years (49.4%), and worked as housewives (40.74%). The triggering factors found in patients were sun exposure (96.3%), cosmetics (67.9%), hormonal (49.4%), and family history (22.2%). The physical examinations of melasma lesions showed that they were mostly located in the malar area (72.8%), light brown colored (74.7%), and 2.0 – 4.0 cm in size (54.3%). Wood’s lamp examination showed that most of the lesions had firm and indistinct borders (55.6%). Conclusion: The triggering factors of melasma are multifactorial, but we suspect that sun exposure plays an important role in affecting melasma.
Digital Health Intervention of Healthy Indonesia Program with Family Approach: Does it Work?
Authors: Prasiska Danik Iga , Yaqin Moch Jazil Ainul
Published: August 2023

Background: The digital age holds out the promise of innovative technology. Along with the development of technology, healthcare management has been changing. Indonesia was implementing The Healthy Indonesia Program with a Family Approach (PISPK) that aimed at increasing access of families and their members to comprehensive health services, promotive, preventive, curative, and basic rehabilitative. Every household data related to 12 health indicators was digitally recorded and analyzed on a specific website to provide a database for determining suitable health and empowerment programs according to health problems experienced by the community. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the performance of The Healthy Indonesia Program with a Family Approach website in East Java Province, Indonesia. Method: The study design is cross-sectional with a descriptive exploratory study. Data was collected through an online survey utilizing Google Forms service and analyzed descriptively with a thematic content approach. Result: Respondents of this research involving 232 health workers from community health centers in East Java Province that running Healthy Indonesia with a Family Approach. This research result found that the PIS-PK website met the criteria of a digital health monitoring tool recommended by WHO with the score of Functionality (70.54%), Stability (62.89%), Fidelity (58.17%), Quality (73.81%), Implementation (77.41%), and Judgement (67.92%). Conclusion: Healthy Indonesia with Family Approach Website was beneficiary to be used as the baseline in designing and developing a community empowerment program targeting specific indicators at the community health center level. However, several issues were noticed including, stability, fidelity, privacy, and data governance that should immediately take into account to improve the website’s performance.
Refusal of Smoking Among Male Adolescents in Sampang Madura: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Sutha Diah , Ambag Silvia Catalan , Novianti Siti , Christine
Published: August 2023

Background: The high prevalence of smoking among adolescents is a serious concern for society and the government. Many studies have been conducted to examine the reasons why adolescents start smoking and how to prevent smoking behavior among adolescents. In the midst of high rates of smoking behavior among adolescents, it is also very interesting to study smoking refusal among adolescents which can later provide information for prevention programs in helping adolescents avoid smoking behavior. Objectives: To describe the phenomenon regarding the rejection of adolescent smoking behavior. Methods: This research is qualitative research that uses in-depth interviews with 17 teenagers as informants. This research was conducted in the District of Sampang Madura from February 2021 to June 2021. The selection of informants then followed the information from the informants who completed the interview (snowball sampling). Results: Based on the results of the study it was found that adolescents who have peers who do not smoke tend to easily reject smoking behavior. Refusal to smoke by adolescents includes health factors, impact on quality of life, societal norms, and appearance. The existence of orders from the family environment to avoid smoking behavior was also mentioned by adolescents as a reason not to smoke. Conclusions: Adolescent rejection of smoking behavior can be used as a reference in smoking behavior prevention programs and also as material for evaluating intervention programs that can help adolescents to quit smoking.
THE EFFECT OF DELAY IN TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS ON RESULTS OF GLUCOSE TEST IN DM PATIENTS WITH HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA
Authors: Khotul Ula Chori , Edy Haryanto Edy Haryanto , Syamsul Arifin Syamsul Arifin , Istanto Wisnu
Published: August 2023

Background: The pre-analytic stage has the most significant contribution to error, which is 60% to 70%. This is an excellent contribution to the dependability of laboratory results. Delays in the examination often occur in the laboratory due to various factors influencing glucose examination outcomes. Purpose: To ascertain the effect of long delays in various temperatures on the results of plasma NaF and serum glucose tests in diabetes mellitus patients who have hypercholesterolemia. Method: Pre-test and post-test design used in a pre-experimental method. In the pretest, plasma NaF and serum glucose levels were checked immediately. In the posttest, the plasma NaF and serum samples were delayed for 4 and 8 hours at the temperature of the refrigerator (4°C) and room temperature (25°C). Result: The results of One-way ANOVA test analysis of the plasma NaF glucose level with an immediate examination, a delay of 4 and 8 hours at room temperature (25°C) showed no effect with a Sig. of 0.423 > 0.05. Plasma NaF glucose level with an immediate examination, 4 and 8 hours delay in refrigerator temperature (4°C) showed no effect with Sig. of 0.772 > 0.05. Serum glucose levels with an immediate examination, 4 and 8 hours delay at room temperature (25°C) showed no effect with a Sig. of 0.333 > 0.05. Serum glucose levels with an immediate examination, 4 and 8 hours delay in refrigerator temperature (4°C) showed no effect with a Sig. of 0.604 > 0.05. Conclusion: There was no effect of 4 hours and 8 hours of delay at the temperature of the refrigerator (4°C) and room temperature (25°C) on the results of NaF and serum glucose examinations in patients with diabetes mellitus who have hypercholesterolemia.
Non-Local EPR Correlations using Quaternion Spin
Authors: Sanctuary Bryan
Published: August 2023

{A statistical simulation is presented which reproduces the correlation obtained from EPR coincidence experiments without non-local connectivity. We suggest that spin carries two complementary properties. In addition to the spin polarization, we identify spin coherence as an attribute which is anti-symmetric and generates the helicity. This spin has structure formed from two orthogonal magnetic moments of spin $1/2$ each. These couple in free flight to form a spin 1, a boson. Upon encountering a filter, the spin 1 decouples into its two independent spins axes of $\frac{1}{2}$, with one aligning with the filter and the other randomizing. The process of decoupling from a free-flight boson to a measured fermion is responsible for the quantum correlation which results in the observe violation of Bell's Inequalities. The polarized states give a CHSH value of 2 while the resonance spin give a CHSH value of 1 for a total of 3, more than from an entangled state which is $2\sqrt{2}$. Coherence can only be formulated by the existence of a bivector which gives a spin the same geometric structure as a photon. The only variable in this work is the angle that orients a spin on the Bloch sphere, first identified in the 1920's. The new features introduced here result from changing the spin symmetry from SU(2) to the quaternion group, $Q_8$. This introduces a bivector into the Dirac equation giving an element of reality which is anti-Hermitian. The calculations use standard spin algebra, and properties of quaternions.
Recommended Separation Distances for 1.3 Ammunition and Explosives
Authors: Guymon Clint , Liu Ming , Covino Josephine
Published: August 2023

Separation Distances are used throughout the world to protect people and assets from the potential hazardous effects from propellants, explosives, and pyrotechnics. The current separation distances for Hazard Division (HD) 1.3 substances and articles used in the United States, in some cases, may not adequately protect against the effects from heat flux and debris when those substances and articles are ignited in a confined structure. Multiple tests in such a confined scenario with HD 1.3 substances have shown that the heat flux and debris hazards could result in injury at distances beyond the current specified explosives safety separation distance (ESSD). Herein are recommended ESSD’s for confined as well as unconfined HD 1.3 articles and substances based on the analysis of hundreds of tests. Recommended ESSD’s include a smaller value for unconfined quantities less than 145 kilograms and ESSD’s that are consistent with NATO distances for confined substances and articles.
Llama 2: Early Adopters' Utilization of Meta's New Open-Source Pretrained Model
Authors: Roumeliotis Konstantinos I. , Tselikas Nikolaos D. , Nasiopoulos Dimitrios K.
Published: August 2023

The rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to witness the introduction of innovative open-source pre-trained models, fostering advancements in various applications. One such model is Llama 2, an open-source pre-trained model released by Meta, which has garnered significant attention among early adopters. In addition to exploring the foundational elements of the Llama v2 model, this paper investigates how these early adopters leverage the capabilities of Llama 2 in their AI projects. Through a qualitative study, we delve into the perspectives, experiences, and strategies employed by early adopters to leverage Llama 2's capabilities. For the purpose of data analysis, the capabilities inherent in the Llama 2 model were employed to conduct keyword extraction from the context of the early adopters' case studies. The findings shed light on the model's strengths, weaknesses, and areas of improvement, offering valuable insights for the AI community and Meta to enhance future model iterations. Additionally, we discuss the implications of Llama 2's adoption on the broader open-source AI landscape, addressing challenges and opportunities for developers and researchers in the pursuit of cutting-edge AI solutions. The present study constitutes an early exploration of the Llama 2 pre-trained model, holding promise as a foundational basis for forthcoming research investigations.
Autoimmune Encephalitis with Antibodies: Anti-NMDAR, Anti-AMPAR, Anti-GQ1b, Anti-DPPX, Anti-CASPR2, Anti-LGI1, Anti-RI, Anti-Yo, Anti-Hu, Anti-CV2 and Anti-GABAAR, in the Course of Psychoses, Neoplastic Diseases and Paraneoplastic Syndromes
Authors: Braczkowski Michał , Soszyński Dariusz , Sierakowska Alicja , Braczkowski Ryszard , Kufel Klaudia , Łabuz-Roszak Beata
Published: August 2023

Encephalitis is a condition with a variety of etiologies, clinical presentations and degrees of severity. The causes of these disorders include both neuroinfections and autoimmune diseases in which host antibodies are pathologically directed against self antigens. In autoimmune encephalitis, autoantibodies are expressed in the central nervous system. The incidence of this disease is approximately 4% of all reported cases of encephalitis. Autoimmune encephalitis can be induced by antibodies against neuronal surface antigens such as N-methyl-D-aspartate-activated glutamate receptors (NMDAR), ⍺-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazole propionate receptors (AMPAR) or gangliosides GQ1b, DPPX, CASPR2, LGI1, as well as by antibodies against neuronal intracellular antigens. The paper presents a number of both mental and neurological symptoms of autoimmune encephalitis. Moreover, the coexistence of psychoses, neoplastic diseases and the methods of diagnosing autoimmune encephalitis are discussed. Attention was also drawn to the fact that early diagnosis, as well as early initiation of targeted treatment, increases the chance of a successful course of the therapeutic process.
Unconventional Mechanisms of Heavy Quark Fragmentation
Authors: Kopeliovich Boris , Nemchik Jan , Potashnikova Irina , Schmidt Ivan
Published: August 2023

Heavy and light quarks produced in high-pT partonic collisions radiate differently. Heavy quarks regenerate their color field, stripped-off in the hard reaction, much faster than the light ones and radiate a significantly smaller fraction of the initial quark energy. This peculiar feature of heavy-quark jets leads to a specific shape of the fragmentation functions observed in e+e− annihilation. Differently from light flavors, the heavy quark fragmentation function strongly peaks at large fractional momentum z, i.e. the produced heavy-light mesons, B or D, carry the main fraction of the jet momentum. This is a clear evidence of the dead-cone effect, and of a short production time of a heavy-light mesons. Contrary to propagation of a small qq¯ dipole, which survives in the medium due to color transparency, a heavy-light Qq¯ dipole promptly expands to a large size. Such a big dipole has no chance to remain intact in a dense medium produced in relativistic heavy ion collisions. On the other hand, a breakup of such a dipole does not affect much the production rate of Qq¯ mesons, differently from the case of light qq¯ meson production.
Long-Term L-Glutamine Treatment Reduces Hemolysis Without Ameliorating Hepatic Vasoocclusion and Liver Fibrosis in a Mouse Model of Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Katoch Omika , UV Ramakrishna , Kaminski Tomasz , Li Ziming , Dubey Rikesh K , Burholt Isabella , Gudapati Shweta , Pradhan-Sundd Tirthadipa
Published: August 2023

Abstract: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an autosomal recessive monogenic disorder caused by a homozygous mutation in the β-globin gene, which leads to erythrocyte sickling, hemolysis, vaso-occlusion and sterile inflammation. Oral l-glutamine administration has been shown to reduce the frequency of pain crisis in SCD patients, however, the long-term effect of l-glutamine in SCD remains to be determined. To understand the long-term effect of l-glutamine administration in SCD liver we used quantitative liver intravital microscopy and biochemical analysis in humanized SCD mice. We here show that chronic l-glutamine administration reduces hepatic hemoglobin-heme-iron level, but fails to ameliorate ischemic liver injury. Remarkably, we find that this failure in resolution of hepatobiliary injury and persistent liver fibrosis is associated with reduced expression of hepatic Kupffer cells post l-glutamine treatment. These findings establish the importance to investigate the long-term effects of l-glutamine therapy on liver pathophysiology in SCD patients.
Survey on the environmental risks of bisphenol A and its rele-vant regulations in Taiwan: An environmental endo-crine-disrupting chemical of increasing concern
Authors: Tsai Wen Tien
Published: August 2023

Bisphenol A (BPA) has been identified as one of endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). Due to its massive production (over 700,000 tons per year) and the extensive use of BPA-based plastics (i.e., polycarbonate and epoxy resin) in Taiwan, it was thus included into a toxic substance by the Ministry of Environment. This work surveyed the updated information about the production of BPA and its environmental distributions in Taiwan over the past decade. Furthermore, the regulatory strategies and countermeasures for managing the environmental risks of BPA by the Taiwan government were summarized to show the cross-ministerial efforts under the relevant acts, including the Toxic and Concerned Chemical Substances Control Act (TCCSCA), the Food Sanitation Management Act (FSMA) and the Commodity Inspection Act (CIA). The findings showed that most of the monitoring data showed far below the acceptable risks. However, the people may pose an adverse threat to the aquatic environment and human health via ecological and food chains. In addition, some countermeasures were further recommended to echo the international actions on environmental endocrine disruptors in recent years.
Tendon-Driven Variable Stiffness Pneumatic Soft Gripper Robot
Authors: Mawah Safeh Clinton , Park Yong-Jai
Published: August 2023

In recent times, the soft robotics field is gaining numerous research focus owing to its high level of manipulation capabilities unlike traditional rigid robots, which gives room for an increasing use in other areas. However, compared to traditional rigid gripper robots, being capable of controlling/obtaining overall body stiffness when required is yet to be further explored since soft gripper robots have inherently less rigid properties. unlike previous designs with very complex variable stiffness systems, this paper demonstrates a soft gripper design with minimum system complexity while being capable of varying the stiffness of a continuum soft robotic actuator and proves to have potential applications in gripping objects of various shapes, weights & sizes. The soft gripper actuator comprises two separate mechanisms; the pneumatic mechanism for bending control and the mechanical structure for stiffness variation by pulling tendons using stepper motors which compresses the actuator, thereby changing the overall stiffness. The pneumatic mechanism was first fabricated and then embedded into another silicon layer during which it was as well merged with the mechanical structure for stiffness control. By first pneumatically actuating the actuator which causes bending and then pulling the tendons, we found out that the actuator stiffness value can be increased up to 145 % its initial value, and the gripper can grasp & lift a weight of up to 2.075 kg.
A Study of Repair Mortars for Restoration of Wall Painted Plasters in a Hypogeum Rock-Cut Church of Matera (Southern Italy)
Authors: Giandomenico Manuel , Capasso Filippo Edoardo , Muca Sokol , Gaetani Maria Carolina , Quarta Giovanni , Iafrate Sara , Melica Davide , Calia Angela
Published: August 2023

Several lime mortars for the repair of painted plasters of the rock cut church of Ss. Pietro and Paolo in Matera were studied. They were designed taking into account both aesthetic criteria that need to be fulfilled in the field of paintings restoration, and physical-mechanical compatibility with the original materials on site, i.e. the pre-existing plasters and the supporting rock. Mixes with calcareous and silica aggregates, based on different grain size proportions, were prepared for filling missing portions of the original painted plaster. The effects of the mineralogical nature and size of the aggregates on the characteristics and properties of the mixes were investigated in relation to the microstructure, physical-mechanical features and resistance to salt ageing. At the end of the experimental campaign, the overall performances were evaluated.