bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multispectral Imaging for Leaf Segmentation and Disease Detection
Authors: Fotiadis Giannis
Published: June 2023

This paper presents a comprehensive study on the utilization of multispectral imaging and color spaces for accurate leaf segmentation and disease detection in plants. The proposed methodology leverages the distinct spectral signatures captured by multispectral cameras to enhance the segmentation accuracy compared to traditional RGB-based approaches. By acquiring multispectral images of plant leaves and applying pre-processing techniques, including noise reduction and image enhancement, the quality of the acquired images is improved. Feature extraction and selection methods are then employed to extract discriminative features from the multispectral data. The extracted features are utilized to develop a robust segmentation algorithm that accurately delineates the boundaries of individual leaves, incorporating advanced image processing techniques such as thresholding, region growing, and morphological operations. Additionally, the paper addresses disease detection by analyzing the spectral reflectance properties of healthy and diseased leaves, developing an effective disease detection model that utilizes machine learning algorithms. Experimental results demonstrate the superiority of the proposed multispectral imaging approach, showcasing high accuracy in leaf segmentation and disease detection even in challenging scenarios with complex backgrounds and overlapping foliage. Overall, this study highlights the potential of multispectral imaging and color spaces as valuable tools for enhancing leaf segmentation and disease detection in agriculture, contributing to improved crop management practices and enabling timely interventions to ensure healthier and more productive plant growth.
THIN SHEET AUTOMATIC INTERPRETATION OF DIKE SWARM MAGNETIC TRANSECTS USING REGULARIZED SECOND DERIVATIVES
Authors: Mendonca Carlos , Cavalcante Felipe , Melo Janaina
Published: June 2023

Dike swarms are major continental structures recording large igneous provinces and crustal extension processes generating rifts and sedimentary basins. A key point in dike swarm studies is determining a minimum number of dikes that are necessary to explain the observed magnetic anomalies and inferences about position and depth for specific unities. We develop an automatic interpretation procedure to interpret the complex anomalies resulting from densely juxtaposed dikes forming a swarm, each dike with different depth and magnetization attributes. The automatic parameter estimation is based on the ratio of the amplitude of the magnetic anomaly (AMA) by its second-order derivative, the dike position and depth determined from simple algebraic expressions based on the thin-sheet model representation. The second derivative of the AMA serves to individualize intervals with specific dike units, thereby determining a minimum number of dikes based on their sharp or subtle concave-down expressions in the AMA profile. Tikhonov regularization is applied to prevent noise enhancement in evaluating numerical derivatives using a finite-difference scheme. A set of MATLAB programs are presented to evaluate the automatic interpretation of magnetic transects, a profile across the Ponta Grossa Dike Swarm in Southern Brazil serving as a testing data set since its results can be compared with a published dike model obtained from data inversion. Dike location and depth obtained with the automatic procedure accurately recover the model parameters obtained from nonlinear data inversion suggesting the utility of the proposed procedure to obtain a reliable model from complex anomalies.
Tactile sensitivity is reduced in mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Löffler Annette , Beier Florian , Bekrater-Bodmann Robin , Hausner Lucrezia , Desch Simon , Silvoni Stefano , Kleinböhl Dieter , Löffler Martin , Nees Frauke , Frölich Lutz , Flor Herta
Published: June 2023

Sensory impairment has been related to age-associated cognitive decline. While these associations were investigated primarily in the auditory and visual domain, other senses such as touch have rarely been studied. Thus, it remains open whether these results are specific for particular sensory domains, or rather point to a fundamental role of sensory deficits in cognitive decline.In this study, data from 31 participants with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), 46 participants with frailty, and 23 non-clinical control participants (NCCs) were included. We assessed sensory function using visual acuity, absolute hearing threshold, and mechanical detection threshold. Cognitive function in participants with MCI was assessed using associative memory performance. Group differences on sensory thresholds were tested using analyses of covariance with age, gender, and years of education entered as covariates. Associations between measures within the MCI group were evaluated using Spearman correlations.We found a significant difference in tactile detection threshold between the groups (F2,93 = 10·35, p < 0·001, η2 = 0·18). Participants with MCI showed significantly reduced tactile acuity compared to participants with frailty (p < 0·001) and NCCs (p = 0·024). In the MCI sample, lower associative memory performance was significantly related to reduced tactile (rs = 0·39, p = 0·031) and auditory acuity (rs = 0·41, p = 0·022).Our results indicate that sensory deficits other than in the auditory and visual domain might contribute to cognitive decline. Prospective studies should investigate the age-related alterations of multimodal sensory processes and its contribution to dementia-related processes.
Towards an evolutionary account of the changes in the human pitch vocal system
Authors: Benítez-Burraco Antonio
Published: June 2023

This commentary paper is aimed to hypothesize about a rationale for the selection events on the gene ABCC9, recently associated with higher voice pitch, as part of the evolution of the human language and the human species, more generally.
Knowledge and Treatment Complience among Hypertensive Patient Attending in a Tertiary Level Hospital, Kathmandu
Authors: Rai Lalita , Gautam Roshani
Published: June 2023

Globally, non-communicable diseases are increasing in trend in both developed and developing countries. Hypertension is considered as one of the main cardiovascular disease which is responsible for life threatening complications and premature death. Knowledge and treatment adherence on hypertension are important to control hypertension and prevent long term complications. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was used to find out the knowledge and treatment compliance among hypertensive patients in a Tertiary level hospital. on-probability sampling technique was used to collect data from 427 people with hypertension through in-person interview. Data analysis was done by using SPSS version 16. Descriptive and inferential statistics was calculated. Out of 427 study participants, half (46.1%) were belong to more than 60 years of age with mean age was 57.30, SD ±12.134, half (55.3%) of the participants were female, 30.44% have positive family history of hypertension and 62.30% had co morbidity. Regarding knowledge on hypertension, more than half (57.8%) of the participants had inadequate knowledge related to hypertension. Overall treatment compliance was poor (6.1%). There was no significant association between knowledge and treatment compliances. So, it is recommended to conduct awareness program related to risk factors and modification of life-style of the people.
Reversal of Anthropocentric Worldview in Margaret Atwood’s Oryx and Crake
Authors: Sharma Prakash
Published: June 2023

Anthropocentric worldview is the main cause of the ecological problems that the world is confronting at present. This study explores and analyze how Margaret Atwood’s Oryx and Crake reveals the reversal of the anthropocentric worldview as the only solution of the ecological problems caused by human centric worldview by employing eco critical insights envisioned by Lawrence Buell. The study scrutinize the way our rationality rejects the subjectivity of nature and regards it as subordinate to human beings in the novel. Therefore, there is a strong need to change our worldview. It follows qualitative research design and uses critical, analytical and interpretative methods for interpreting textual data. Critically analyzing different events and situations that highlight the ugliness and cruelty caused by human-centered activities, it emphasizes people’s indifference towards the autonomy of the natural world. Similarly, it critiques the selfish modification of natural components as per human need. Such actions have paved the path for apocalyptic events. Human beings can avoid such events by changing their anthropocentric worldview and making it more eco centric. This research exposes the way Atwood blames anthropocentric worldview as the main cause of the environmental crisis of present time. Self-centric corporate greed and uncontrolled bioengineering give birth to different ecological and biological problems. These problems lead the world to the possible apocalypse that results in the extinction of the existence of all the beings and things of the ecosphere. This study recommends immediate action to protect our ecosphere respecting the interdependence between human and natural world. Ecocentric worldview only guarantees the survival of all on this earth enjoying intrinsic values.
नेपालको सन्दर्भमा वर्णव्यवस्थाको समाजशास्त्रीय विश्लेषण
Authors: घिमिरे Ghimire सुमन्त Sumanta
Published: June 2023

वर्णव्यवस्था हिन्दु उपमहाद्वीपको चारवर्ण (ब्राह्मण, क्षेत्री, बैश्य, शूद्र) सँग सम्बन्धित छ । यस अध्ययनमा नेपालका खस आर्य, नेवार र मैथिली गरी तीन साँस्कृतिक/भौगोलिक समुदायमा वर्ण व्यवस्था कसरी विस्तार भएको छ भनी व्याख्या गरिएको छ । यो अध्ययन पुस्तकालय विधिबाट गरिएको छ  । पुस्तकालयमा उपलब्ध लेख रचनाको विषयवस्तुलाई यस अध्ययनको तथ्याङ्कको रूपमा प्रयोग गरिएको छ । यसरी अध्ययन गर्दा समाजशास्त्रीय दृष्टिले जातीय व्यवस्था, परम्रागत रूपमा स्थापित नभई खास ऐतिहासिक सन्दर्भमा यसको थालनी भएको र त्यसका खास कारणहरू रहेको देखिन्छ । सोही आधारमा वर्णव्यवस्था स्थापित हुँदै आएको छ भन्ने कुराको व्याख्या गरिएको छ । वर्ण तथा जातजातिका विसङ्गति जहाँबाट जताबाट पसे पनि समाजमा यसको प्रभाव कम भएको अनुभूति हुन्छ । सामाजिक विकाशको नियमित प्रक्रियामा जन्ममा आधारित जात व्यवस्थाका तमाम दुर्गुण हिजो भन्दा आज निकै कम भएका छन् ।
वैदिक शिक्षण विधि : श्रवण, मनन, निदिध्यासनः र वर्तमान शिक्षण प्रणालीमा उपादेयता
Authors: घिमिरे Ghimire जनार्दन Janardan
Published: June 2023

आधुनिक पश्चिमी शिक्षा प्रणालीले वैदिक दर्शनमा निहित शैक्षिक विचारहरूमा छायाँ पारिरहेको परिवेशमा वैदिक ग्रन्थमा के कस्ता शिक्षण विधिहरू छन् भन्ने जिज्ञासा समाधान गर्ने ध्येयले यो लेख तयार गरिएको छ । उपनिषद्मा वर्णित तत्वज्ञानका विधिलाई कसरी बुझ्न सकिएला ? ती विधिहरूको वर्तमान शिक्षा व्यवस्थामा के उपादेयता हुन सक्ला ? भन्ने दुई प्रश्नहरूको उत्तर खोज्न यो लेख केन्द्रित छ । शास्त्रहरूको अध्ययन गरी त्यसमा निहित अर्थको व्याख्या गर्न प्रचलित हर्मेन्यूटिक विधिको प्रयोगद्वारा सूचना निर्माण र व्याख्या गरिएको छ । उपनिषदमा वर्णित श्रवणलाई विभिन्न छ चरणमा अर्थपूर्ण तरिकाले सुन्ने प्रक्रियाको रूपमा बुझ्न सकिँदो रहेछ । श्रवण गरिएको ज्ञानलाई वाद, जल्प र वितण्डा जस्ता प्रक्रियाहरूबाट स्वीकार, इन्कार वा मूल्याङ्कन गर्ने प्रक्रिया मनन रहेछ । मननबाट सुनिश्चित वा सन्देहरहित भएकोज्ञानलाई व्यवहारमा रूपान्तरण गर्ने प्रक्रियालाई निदिध्यासन भनिँदो रहेछ । यी विधिहरू विशेष रहेछन् । तत्वज्ञानका अभिलाषी साधकहरू र सांसारिक ज्ञानआर्जन गर्न चाहने विद्यार्थीहरू दुवैका लागि यी विधिहरू फलदायी रहेछन् । अनौपचारिक र औपचारिक शिक्षाका तल्ला तहदेखि उच्च तहसम्मका जुनसुकै विषयको शिक्षणमा पनि यी विधिहरू सान्दर्भिक देखिन्छन् । यसले वैदिक ग्रन्थहरूको उपादेयता पुष्टि गर्छ । वैदिक चिन्तन परम्परामा यस्ता उपयोगी ज्ञानहरू धेरै हुन सक्छन, जुन हामीलाई थाहा नभई रहेको हुन सक्छ । अतः प्राज्ञिक समुदायले वैदिकग्रन्थहरूको अध्ययन अनुसन्धानमा चासो राख्नुपर्ने देखिन्छ ।
Efectividad de dos dosis de vitamina D3 en déficit de vitamina D, en mujeres con deseo sexual hipoactivo. Ensayo clínico aleatorizado
Authors: Espitia De La Hoz Franklin
Published: June 2023

Introducción: las etiologías del deseo sexual hipoactivo (DSH) suelen ser complejas y de carácter multifactorial, destacándose dentro de las endocrinas el déficit de vitamina D3. Objetivo: evaluar la efectividad del tratamiento con vitamina D3 en el déficit de vitamina D en mujeres con DSH y detectar los efectos adversos. Materiales y métodos: ensayo clínico aleatorizado, triple ciego, en 92 mujeres mayores de 18 y menores de 40 años, con concentraciones de 25(OH)D menores de 30 ng/mL, atendidas en el eje cafetero (Colombia), entre 2016 y 2019. Se aleatorizaron dos grupos: «A» con 45 que recibieron 50.000 UI y «B» 47 con 14.000 UI de vitamina D3. Se hizo seguimiento al mes, a los dos y tres meses. Se utilizó el instrumento “Índice de Función Sexual Femenina” (IFSF). El análisis fue descriptivo. Resultados: edad promedio 35,99 ± 5,32 años. Al final del estudio las concentraciones de 25 (OH)D aumentaron en ambos grupos («A»: 53,72 ± 8,41 vs. «B» 36,28 ± 4,57; p=0,001). La puntuación del IFSF arrojó diferencias significativas («A»: 27,87 vs. «B»: 26,81; p=0,048), observando mejoría del DSH en 84,44% de las del grupo «A» frente a 38,29% del «B» (p<0,05). La frecuencia sexual semanal se incrementó («A» 4 vs. «B» 2; p<0,05). Los efectos adversos presentados fueron leves. Conclusiones: la vitamina D3 es una alternativa terapéutica en mujeres con DSH. Se requieren estudios en otros lugares del país con el esquema evaluado, en grupos más grandes, para conocer mejor el efecto de dicha terapéutica.
Preparation of TiO2 pigment from ilmenite ore concentrate by molten alkaline process
Authors:   Hanoi University of Science and Technology, 1 Dai Co Viet Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam, Nguyen Thi Thao , Pham Ky Nam ,   Center for Structures and Materials, Viettel Aerospace Institute - Viettel Group, D26 Cau Giay New Urban Area, Yen Hoa Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam, Dinh Thi Hinh ,   Faculty of Material Science and Engineering, Phenikaa University, Yen Nghia Ward, Ha Dong District, Hanoi, Vietnam, Ngoc Tran Vu Diem ,   Hanoi University of Science and Technology, 1 Dai Co Viet Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi, Vietnam, Ullah Aman ,   Department of Physics, University of Science and Technology Bannu, Bannu Township, 28100, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Published: June 2023

TiO2 pigment production from an ilmenite concentrate via a molten alkaline process was investigated. The ilmenite concentrate (54.19% TiO2) was first roasted in the molten NaOH system at various temperatures ranging from 600 to 800°C while the mass ratio of NaOH/ilmenite was varied within the range of 0.8-1.2 for 1 hour. The achieved roasted efficiency was up to 93.93% at a temperature of 700°C and NaOH/ilmenite ratio of 1:1. The roasted product was first leached in water and then in a solution of HCl 20% at 50ºC for 2 hours. The TiOCl2 solution was hydrolysed at 95oC for 2 hours. Precipitation of the hydrolysis process was then calcinated at 800oC. The final obtained product contained up to 96.37% of TiO2. Ilmenite can be used as a raw material in a molten alkaline process. It is obvious that not only high purities of TiO2 could be achieved, but also the reduction of waste materials, raw materials, energy, and time.
Craniofacial malignant tumors, their extensions, and surgical strategy for their treatment
Authors: Паламар Орест Ігорович , Гук А. П. , Оконський Д. І. , Усатов О. С. , Давиденко Б.О.
Published: June 2023

Purpose: To identify extension routes of craniofacial malignancies and formulate a surgical treatment plan based thereupon.

Material and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 253 patients with craniofacial malignancies who underwent surgical treatment at the Romodanov Neurosurgery Institute from 2002 through 2022. Of the 253 patients, 112 had a primary tumor, and 141, a secondary tumor. Preoperative Karnofsky performance scores ranged from 50 to 70 points. Patients underwent neurological and ophthalmological status assessment, as per routine protocols.

Results: Epithelial malignancies were the most common (53.7%), whereas anaplastic meningioma and embryonal malignancies were rather uncommon (1.2% and 0.4%, respectively) craniofacial malignancies. The presence of certain clinical symptoms was associated primarily with tumor origin and extension. A high rate of general brain and rhinological symptoms in our study sample was caused by a high percentage of intracranial and paranasal sinus tumors. Craniofacial malignancies most commonly originate from the midline (particularly, anterior midline skull base). Ethmoidal labyrinth was the most common site of origin (45.0%), followed by a sphenoid sinus (12.2%), pterygopalatine and infratemporal fossae (9.9%), whereas the cavernous sinus and olfactory fossa were the least common sites of origin (0.4% and 1.2%, respectively). Craniofacial tumors extended most commonly intracranially (transdurally, epidurally, via adhesion to the dura mater, and/or cavernous sinus growth) or intraorbitally. Anterior craniofacial resection (bifrontal craniotomy with combined with either lateral rhinotomy or supraorbital advancement; or a subcranial approach) was the most common surgical treatment. Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea and infectious complications (meningitis and meningoencephalitis) were the most frequent complications. The overall postoperative mortality rate was 2.0%.

Conclusion: First, compared to the transcranial and facial approaches, the craniofacial resection is advantageous in terms of the radicality of tumor excision. Second, the subcranial approach is preferable to the bifrontal approach in the presence of marked extracranial tumor component, whereas the transbasal Derome approach is effective in the presence of marked extracranial and/or intracranial tumor components. Finally, both the orbitozygomatic and infratemporal approaches allow for the radicality of excision of lateral skull base malignancies, but the latter approach is associated with a lower rate of complications.
Bacterial keratitis caused by Kocuria varians: a case report
Authors: Сакович Василь , Алексєєва Олена , Волок Сергій , Іщенко Оксана
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this paper is to report a rare case of bacterial keratitis caused by the non-pathogenic Kocuria varians. The case reported exemplifies the development of severe bacterial keratitis following a corneal microtrauma induced by of non-pathogenic or potentially pathogenic species. We report a rare cause of Kocuria varians keratitis in a review of national and foreign literature. Examination of the corneal microbiota and determination of its spectrum of sensitivity to antibiotics, if performed early, will facilitate the administration of adequate treatment and prevention of severe complications in corneal bacterial lesions.
Effects of dance-movement therapy on the movement and self-concept of wheelchair users with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Bucik Katja , Smrtnik Vitulić Helena , Rapuš Pavel Jana
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to determine the effects of dance-movement therapy on individuals with mild intellectual disabilities, focusing on their self-concept and various general and wheelchair movement qualities. The sample included two females and three males with mild intellectual disabilities, ranging in age from 17 to 26 years. Two of the participants were diagnosed with cerebral palsy, while the other three were diagnosed with myelomeningocele. The participants had difficulties/disorders in various aspects of movement and used a wheelchair to move independently. They were included in a dance-movement therapy programme developed specifically for the present study, which incorporated various dance-movement therapy concepts such as Emerging Body Language (Rutten-Saris, 1992), Brain Dance (Gilbert, 2015), and the Dance Movement Therapy approach (Payne, 2006). The dance-movement therapy programme involved one-hour sessions that took place weekly over a four-year period. We used the Self-Concept Questionnaire (Musitu et al., 1998) through which social, familial, physical, learning, and emotional aspects of self-concept were assessed, as well as two scales assessing general and wheelchair movement quality (developed specifically for this study). The results indicate that, at the beginning of the dance-movement therapy programme, participants had below average social, familial, learning, and emotional aspects of self-concept, as well as above average physical self-concept and some difficulties with certain general and wheelchair movements. After attending the dance-movement therapy programme, participants showed improved performance and scored above average on most self-concept aspects. They also improved in all measured aspects of general movement quality and several aspects of wheelchair movement quality. Thus, the results suggest that the dance-movement therapy programme was effective for individuals with mild intellectual disabilities and movement difficulties in the areas of self-concept, as well as general and wheelchair movement.
Perceptual and acoustic assessment of a child’s speech before and after laryngeal web surgery
Authors: Varošanec Škarić Gordana , Bašić Iva , Stevanović Siniša
Published: June 2023

The aim of this paper was to point to the importance of early diagnostics and surgery in patients with laryngeal web in order to achieve normal breathing, as well as to stress the need for an interdisciplinary approach to observing the quality of voice and prosodic features at an early age. The subject under consideration was a 6.5-year-old girl who had previously been diagnosed with irregular breathing (R06). An endoscopic exam revealed a laryngeal web between the vocal folds and the fact that the posterior intercartilaginous section of the glottis of the child’s larynx was in order (normal). The child’s speech had been recorded in the acoustic studio, both before and after the vocal-fold surgery (six and twelve months later). Due to severe dysphonia, difficulties with breathing, and frequent noisy breathing (stridor), we recorded only the phonation of the vowel [a], as well as spontaneous speech before the surgery. In addition, there was intense glottic and supraglottic strain before the surgery, which in phonetics corresponds to the term laryngeal and supralaryngeal strain and pathologically creaky whispery phonation (according to VPA protocol). This strain was visible in the area of the chest, neck, and head, as well as audible in the voice quality. Acoustic analysis showed that the average F0 for the vowel [a] was remarkably high (442 Hz), and the pathological values were established using the following measures: local jitter (1.68%), local shimmer (0.7 dB), and the harmonic to noise ratio (17.6 dB). In contrast, six months after the surgery, the pitch for [a] was half the value of the preoperative one (220.5 Hz, p < 0.001), and the local jitter for all vowels (0.30-0.47%) and the harmonic to noise ratio (22.46 dB, p = 0.05) was within the normal range. There was also significant improvement in the F0 values, standard deviation of F0, and minimum and maximum F0 values. The average and median F0 values in spontaneous speech were also lower postoperatively. The voice quality showed a more balanced timbre (LTASS), particularly after one year. Some other prosodic features also showed improvement.
Perspectives of mothers on the quality of life of children with epidermolysis bullosa and their parent
Authors: Geček Darija , Buljevac Marko
Published: June 2023

The aim of the study was to gain insight into some domains of the quality of life of children with epidermolysis bullosa and their parents from perspectives of mothers. Semi-structured interview was used as method for data collection with six mothers of children with epidermolysis bullosa. Thematic analysis was a method of analysing data. The results show that the quality of life of parents of children with epidermolysis bullosa is determined by parents´ good health, job satisfaction and received support from different sources, as well as the family’s financial well-being and their limited possibilities of participating in leisure activities. The quality of life of children with epidermolysis bullosa is determined by the children’s affiliation to the community, poorer health condition of children, children’s abilities to perform certain everyday activities, as well as appropriate support from the formal support system. It is clear that this rare disease affects the quality of life of all family members. Families of children with epidermolysis bullosa need informational, practical, emotional, and financial support from informal and formal support system, especially from highly specialized and well networked professionals.
Physicians’ Perception and Practice of Prescribing Vitamin B Combination versus Antiepileptic Drugs for Diabetic Neuropathy: Content Validity, Reliability and Pilot Study
Authors: Essa Narmin , Aladul Mohammed
Published: June 2023

Background: Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is the most common complication of diabetes mellitus causing increased morbidity and mortality. Although international guidelines did not include vitamins and dietary supplements in any line of management, these agents were prescribed by a significant number of physicians either as preventive or treatment of DN. This study aimed to develop a validated questionnaire that examines the physicians’ perception and practice towards prescribing vitamins or dietary supplements for DN treatment.

Method: The questionnaire was developed upon literature review via PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The questionnaire was revised upon experts’ views and opinions. The constructed questionnaire was validated by the means of content validity and internal consistency. Finally, the developed questionnaire was piloted in a small representative sample of the original future aimed research target population, to test its applicability and feasibility.

Results: A total of 19 items questionnaire were developed in two domains (perception and practice). Content validity analysis results met a satisfactory level, in which the S-CVI/UA value was 0.84 and 0.89 for clarity and relevance respectively. The questionnaire also showed good reliability, in which the Cronbach’s alphas was 0.824.

Conclusion: This study showed the ability to construct a questionnaire with good levels of content validity and reliability that can cover different aspects of the current state of perception and practice among physicians regarding the management of DN.
Evaluation of Drug Prescription Pattern Using WHO Prescribing Indicators in Libya: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Atia Ahmed , Nouran Gzllal  , Malak Gharibe
Published: June 2023

Background and aims. The improper use of drugs due to irrational prescriptions is a common problem in Libya. This study aimed to investigate the prescribing pattern and predictors of antibiotic prescription in primary health care facilities in three districts (east, west, and south) in Libya. Methods. In this retrospective study, 484 prescriptions were examined. World Health Organization-recommended indicators for rational use were examined (WHO): e.g., the percentage of prescriptions covering antibiotics, prescription of injections, and prescription of drugs by a generic name and from a national essential drug list, as well as the average number of drugs per prescription, were all considered. Results. The average number of drugs per prescription was 4.72, with a maximum of 7 drugs in a prescription, and the percentage of prescriptions involving antibiotics and injections was 30.4% and 10.5%, respectively. There were 28.6% drugs prescribed by their generic name and 82.8% were retrieved from the essential drugs list. The most common category of medicines were 18.9% antibiotics, 18.3% antihypertensives, and 15.7% multivitamins and minerals. While the lowest consumed drugs were steroids 2.5%. Conclusion. There was some irrational drug prescribing, particularly with regard to injections and antibiotics. It is suggested that physicians participate in continuing education programs on rational prescribing for various medical indications.
“Doctors Aren’t Familiar with Your Tissues”: Self-Examination and Feminist Health Activism in 1970s Canada
Authors: Patton Karissa , Wood Whitney
Published: June 2023

This article explores the impact of self-examination as a tool of feminist resistance, an act of preventive health care, and a site where mainstream and alternative health models were debated in late twentieth-century Canada. In the early 1970s, a range of women’s health groups increasingly turned their liberationist critiques towards the structures of mainstream medicine, and the self-exam became a vehicle that allowed women to push back against what they cast as the systemic power imbalances involved with the traditional doctor-patient relationship. Both breast and pelvic self-exams became staples of the women’s health movement as feminists encouraged women to take health care into their own hands, both figuratively and literally. As the decade progressed, breast self-examination transformed from a niche feminist technique to a relatively commonplace preventative health practice, increasingly discussed within popular women’s magazines across North America. Pelvic self-examination remained more controversial as the practice was denounced by a small but vocal group of Canadian physicians, resentful of lay incursions into medical practice. Drawing on women’s magazines and feminist newsletters, archival files from Canadian women’s health centres, and debates about self-examination in national newspapers, we reveal how shifting narratives about women’s liberation, responsibility for preventative health practices, and medical authority intersected in the feminist practice of self-examination.
Cryptocurrency: Evidence from North Macedonia
Authors: Jovanovski Kiril , Jusufi Learta
Published: June 2023

Cryptocurrency as a novel concept in finance, has lately at­tracted wide attention in the financial market. However, there is a divided opinion when it comes to embracing or ignoring them. Some are optimis­tic about their future, and others believe that the skepticism that surrounds them will strongly contribute to their disappearance from the market. The first part of the paper will give a brief background about cryptocurrencies and their associated advantages and disadvantages. The second part of the paper will focus on providing an overview of the cryptocurrency situation in North Macedonia, where they are currently unregulated. Since no legisla­tion would protect consumers in case of fraud, the proper regulatory frame­work in this sphere is an urgent problem that requires immediate attention. Additionally, this paper will offer a small insight into other Western Balkan countries in this regard, where the situation is like in North Macedonia.
Usage of E-platforms Google Meet, Microsoft Teams and Zoom in Education
Authors: Vorina Anton , Vrcelj Nikolina , Bevanda Vuk
Published: June 2023

The crisis caused by COVID-19 has forced educational institu­tions to use electronics for educational purposes and thus to digitize the entire process of lectures as well as exams and other school activities. Dis­tance learning is, of course, welcome at a time when it is necessary to lim­it oneself socially as much as possible to help curb the spread of infections. But everything has both good and bad sides and e-learning is no exception. Rapid changes in this area required even faster adaptation by teachers, pro­fessors, or lecturers, as well as pupils and students. The latter, already born in the age of electronics and accustomed to drastic innovations in this field, probably had fewer problems with this. The purpose of the research is to identify the advantages and disadvantages of e-learning observed by users. The research will be limited to three of the most widespread e-meeting pro­grams. These are Google Meet, Microsoft Teams and Zoom. Assuming that these are the three most used programs, the satisfaction of the users of these programs is also an important issue in the research.
Exploring the Juvenile Delinquency Involvements of Former Young Male Juvenile Delinquents
Authors: Musa Anisah Zainab , Rais Haniza
Published: June 2023

In recent years, the incidence of juvenile delinquency has been increasing, posing a threat to the well-being of families and society. This urges the understanding of the involvement in delinquent behaviours among young male juvenile delinquents. The main objective of this study was to explore juvenile delinquent involvement among former young male juvenile delinquents. A phenomenology qualitative research design was utilised to explore the participants’ lived experiences and their involvement in juvenile delinquency. Eight (8) former young male juvenile delinquents aged 26 years old and below participated in this research. The non-probability sampling technique of snowball sampling was utilised to select the participants. An intake form was administered to obtain the participants’ socio-demographic information. A semi-structured interview questions were used to explore the participants’ involvement in juvenile delinquency. The analysis of the data collected from former young male juvenile delinquents using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) revealed several themes that led to such delinquent behaviours; namely, lucrative business, recidivism, and peer pressure. The results indicate that the participants’ initial involvement was influenced by their social circle or peer group, the challenges of relapse, and the advantages they gained from their unlawful conduct. The analysis of the results helps us determine the need for early intervention in order to prevent the increasing percentage of juvenile delinquency among adolescents in Malaysia.
Perceptions of Arabic Language Learners on the Development of Speaking Skills through Cooperative Learning: AHAS-KIRKHS’ Students as a Model
Authors: Hj. Osman Rahmah Ahmad , Abdullah Nor Asiah
Published: June 2023

Cooperative learning has a significant impact on learners' positive attitudes towards their peers and friends who may come from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. This enhances the exchange of learning among them and equips them with life skills that are beneficial for their interaction with the environment they are in. Some studies have shown that cooperative learning can improve the learning outcomes of speaking skills for learners, making the learning process easier and more enjoyable. Therefore, this research employed a quantitative approach through a questionnaire distributed to a sample of students from AHAS-KIRKHS, IIUM. The aim was to understand their perceptions of the implementation of cooperative learning methods and identify the facilitating and hindering factors in applying cooperative learning for the development of Arabic speaking skills. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software, calculating percentages, frequencies, mean scores, and standard deviations. The results revealed that the majority of students agreed that cooperative learning helps them develop their Arabic speaking skills.
DESENVOLVIMENTO DA ARGUMENTAÇÃO EM ATIVIDADES DE DEBATE
Authors: Becker Matheus , Sauerwein Inés Prieto Schmidt
Published: June 2023

A argumentação é uma competência geral presente na Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC) que deve ser desenvolvida na Educação Básica brasileira. Neste sentido, as atividades de diálogo e, em particular, as atividades de debate com confronto constituem-se como uma possibilidade para desenvolver a argumentação dos alunos. No presente trabalho fez-se uma revisão bibliográfica em periódicos nacionais de Qualis A1, A2, B1 e B2 conforme a matriz de avaliação 2013-2016 presente na plataforma Sucupira, para responder à questão de pesquisa: como as atividades de debate com confronto contribuem para o desenvolvimento da argumentação? Para tanto, utilizamos a técnica da Análise de Conteúdo (Bardin, 1979) para criar elementos que indicassem as diferentes dimensões da argumentação promovidas por estas atividades. Como principais resultados obtivemos que nessas atividades a argumentação tem o potencial para desenvolver habilidades de pesquisa e promovem articulações de conteúdos conceituais com habilidades comunicativas, contribuindo para o aprimoramento da curiosidade epistemológica (Freire, 1996).
POSSIBILIDADES E LIMITES NA IMPLEMENTAÇÃO DE UMA PROPOSTA COLABORATIVA DE INTEGRAÇÃO CURRICULAR NA EDUCAÇÃO BÁSICA
Authors: Guidolin Jardel Antonio , Zambon Luciana Bagolin
Published: June 2023

Este artigo tem por objetivo apresentar e discutir parte dos resultados de uma pesquisa que buscou investigar as possibilidades e os limites no processo de construção e de implementação de uma proposta colaborativa de integração curricular, a partir de uma perspectiva interdisciplinar, em uma escola estadual de educação básica. Para isso, foi elaborado e implementado, de forma colaborativa entre os educadores e gestão escolar, um projeto interdisciplinar de ensino baseado numa temática motivadora oriunda das discussões entre os envolvidos na proposta de ação. A metodologia qualitativa foi a utilizada para orientar a pesquisa, bem como a construção, coleta e análise de informações, mediante questionários, fotografias e observações. A partir da análise dos resultados, pode-se afirmar que as práticas interdisciplinares podem se efetivar nas escolas e possibilitar contribuições significativas em termos de interação entre estudantes, educadores e gestão. Contudo, a efetivação de práticas colaborativas derivou muito mais da iniciativa e organização entre os próprios docentes e gestão escolar do que das condições de trabalho encontradas no sistema. Assim, para o planejamento e a implementação das atividades colaborativas na escola, se fez necessário uma gestão ancorada nos princípios norteadores da gestão democrática, onde a participação e o clima organizacional sejam fomento de todo o processo, desde o planejamento até a execução das ações.
PLANTAS MEDICINAIS DE USO POPULAR PELOS FAMILIARES DE ALUNOS DA ESCOLA GERALDO DIAS, CALDAS NOVAS, GOIÁS
Authors: Soares Sirlene Bruno , Morais Isa Lucia de , Caes André Luiz , Guimarães Brenda Oliveira
Published: June 2023

As pesquisas etnobotânicas, além de viabilizar a integração de saberes, movimentam e direcionam pesquisas para a conservação e o uso racional de recursos naturais, relacionando o homem com a diversidade botânica local. Assim, esta pesquisa objetivou conhecer os usos das plantas medicinais nos quintais dos alunos do 4º e 5º ano da escola Geraldo Dias, situada no povoado Nossa Senhora de Fátima em Caldas Novas, Goiás, analisando o etnoconhecimento dos familiares quanto ao saber e uso de plantas medicinais. A coleta dos dados foi mediante entrevista semiestruturada com questionário. Foram entrevistadas 22 detentoras do conhecimento sobre o uso das plantas medicinais. A pesquisa inventariou 72 espécies de plantas medicinais. Lamiaceae e Asteraceae foram as famílias com o maior número de espécies. Plectranthus barbatus (boldo) foi a espécie de maior concordância de uso. A maioria das espécies nativas e naturalizadas é de ocorrência no Cerrado e Mata Atlântica. A parte da planta mais utilizada para a preparação dos remédios caseiros foi a folha e a forma de preparo o chá. O uso das plantas para tratar doenças associadas ao aparelho respiratório foi predominante. As plantas medicinais constituíram a primeira opção para cuidados com a saúde entre as entrevistadas, o que evidencia a importância das plantas medicinais cultivadas nos seus quintais no tratamento de enfermidades e como prática integrativa e complementar na atenção básica à saúde.
ATRAENTES E REPELENTES PARA ADULTOS DE DIPTERA E LEPIDOPTERA
Authors: Cartaxo Paulo Henrique de Almeida , Santos João Paulo de Oliveira , Lopes Gleidyane Novais , Batista Jacinto de Luna
Published: June 2023

As ordens Diptera e Lepidoptera apresentam diversas espécies que possuem elevado potencial de causarem danos as culturas agrícolas, esses insetos-praga são responsáveis por perdas anuais bilionárias na agricultura mundial. Assim, estratégias para seu controle se fazem necessárias, principalmente as pautadas no Manejo Integrado de Pragas (MIP). Nesse sentido, essa pesquisa busca revisar os principais métodos de atração e repelência de insetos adultos de Diptera e Lepidoptera, assim como sua aplicação no MIP. Três atrativos (Feromônios, Atrativos Alimentares e Luzes) e dois repelentes (Feromônios de Confundimento e Óleos Essenciais) foram identificados como sendo utilizados, ou com potencial de utilização, de forma sólida em programas de MIP, principalmente associados ao uso de armadilhas, que podem ser para captura em massa ou para atração e morte. Ainda, a exemplo dos feromônios de confundimento, podem ser utilizados para interrupção de acasalamento, notadamente em algumas espécies de lepidópteros. De modo geral, grande parte dos atrativos e repelentes levantados, apresentam modo de atuação relacionados a aspectos biológicos dessas pragas, principalmente associados a reprodução. Esses atrativos e repelentes podem ser empregados em diferentes situações no MIP, com potencial obtenção de resultados promissores; a escolha destes deve ser pautada no melhor custo benefício, observando-se os aspectos econômicos e ambientais.
REPRESENTAÇÕES DAS RELAÇÕES ÉTNICO-RACIAIS EM UMA COLEÇÃO DIDÁTICA DE CIÊNCIAS DO ENSINO FUNDAMENTAL
Authors: Silva Brunna Alves da , Ustra Sandro Rogério Vargas
Published: June 2023

O artigo apresenta resultados da análise de uma coleção didática de Ciências dos Anos Finais do Ensino Fundamental no que se refere à temática das relações étnico-raciais no âmbito da educação. Busca-se compreender as possibilidades de utilização do livro didático como instrumento de transgressão de um sistema estruturalmente racista e excludente. A metodologia une a Análise de Conteúdo à Hermenêutica de Profundidade como modo de favorecer o aprofundamento dos sentidos, desvelando e caracterizando a abordagem das relações étnico-raciais. Foram priorizadas para análise as passagens que continham os termos associados à temática, especialmente as imagens referentes à representação preta e indígena, além de textos, títulos e legendas que as acompanham. Através dessas etapas, foi possível construir categorias de análise referentes às ausências e presenças no livro didático com relação a culturas não brancas, bem como, sinalizar os desafios e também as possíveis consequências de naturalizar e perpetuar um ensino em viés colonizador.
Interaction between a Museum and a City in Europe
Authors: Barišić Korina , Žunić Alen , Bojanić Obad Šćitaroci Bojana
Published: June 2023

The article examines different viewpoints on the museum’s role in the transformation of urban identity. The review of existing research aimed at mapping and exploring the museum-city interaction and its features throughout history. The selected studies were categorized and analysed according to the field they cover (urbanism and architecture, economy, sociology and museology). The analysis has shown that the interaction between the museum and the city can be traced throughout history and that it experienced its first rise in the mid- 1970s with the construction of the Pompidou Centre, and then in the late 20th and early 21st century, influenced by modern phenomena of globalization and migration. Due to the new way of interaction, museums have changed their architecture and purposes, repositioning themselves as a new tool for urban transformation. A tentative conceptual framework and methodology were set up based on research literature to evaluate the interaction between the museum and the city. Further research is necessary to explore and define those interactions and tools that will encourage the role of European museums in promoting and transforming urban areas.
Creative Thinking and its Relationship to Achievement Motivation among High School Students (A Field Study in the Schools of Al-Qadarif Municipality, Al-Qadarif State - Sudan 2023)
Authors: Osman Suleiman Idris Omar , Ahmed Osman Abdel-Qader Mohamed
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study is the recognition of the stages of creative cognition, achievement motivation of the third-class secondary students in Gadarif Municipality, the recognition of the relationship between the creative cognition and achievement motivation. About three hundred students in third class at secondary level are included in the study and they are selected in a simple random way. To achieve the aims of the study, the researcher used a questionnaire of creative cognition prepared by the researcher and the measuring of achievement motivation prepared by (Mohyd Mohammed). The researcher used the connected descriptive method. After the statistical processing with the programme of statistical package for social science (SPSS), the following results are reached. First, the level of creative cognition of the secondary students in Gadarif Municipality is high. Secondly, the level of achievement motivation of the students is also high. Fourth, there is positive connected relation with statistical imply between the creative cognition and the achievement motivation of the students studied. Also, there are no differences with statistical imply that due to the following factors: gender, type of education, father's education and mother's education.
Level of Need for Motivation among Administrators Working in the Ministry of Education of Gaza Strip in the Light of Some Variables
Authors: Zaidan Reham Omar Youssef , Dewa Maki Babiker Saeed
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to identify the level of desire and need for motivation among administrators working in the Ministry of Education of Gaza, and also aimed to reveal the extent of these administrators' need for motivation in the light of several variables. To Measure this, a scale of psychological and social adjustment prepared by Mahid Abdel Aziz (2016) was used. The sample of the study was chosen in a stratified random manner from (100) administrators working in the Ministry of Education in Gaza, with a total number of (254) individuals. To analyze the data, the Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) program was used. The results Found that the level of desire and need for motivation among administrators working in the Ministry of Education in Gaza is high. The study confirmed that there are statistically significant differences in the need for motivation. There are statistically significant differences in the need for motivation among administrators working in education and education in Gaza according to the educational qualification variable in favor of administrators with a university degree. The study recommended the need to develop incentive programs for workers in the Ministry of Education, which may contribute to raising the level of interaction and social communication between employees and raise their ability to build social relations and improve the level of social interaction for them, which will reflect positively on work and suggested studying the role of motivation and material incentives in alleviating pressure psychology of workers in the field of education in the Gaza Strip.
Hydrellia (Diptera: Ephydridae) mining in Stratiotes aloides: a long history of confusion
Authors: Stuke J.-H.
Published: June 2023

Based on collecting records, rearing, examination of type specimens and analysis of published data, this paper discusses which species of the genus Hydrellia (Diptera: Ephydridae) mine in Water Soldier, Stratiotes aloides. Seven species of Hydrellia have been reported as leaf miners of S. aloides in the literature during the last 100 years. All records are very likely to be H. tarsata Haliday, 1839, and three species described from the material reared from S. aloides are considered to be new junior synonyms of H. tarsata: H. stratiotae Hering, 1925, syn. nov., H. stratiotella Wahlgren, 1947, syn. nov., and H. propingua Wahlgren, 1947, syn. nov. Hence, only H. tarsata is known to live in S. aloides. Information on the bionomics and distribution of H. tarsata is reviewed.