bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainability-oriented innovation system and economic stability of the innovative countries
Authors: Manzoor Faiza , Wei Longbao , Subhan Qazi Abdul , Siraj Mahwish
Published: June 2023

Novelcoronavirus-19 has created a challenging situation for developed as well as developing countries to sustain economic stability. There are a lot of controversies for policymakers to formulate an effective policy for reviving economic stability and minimizing the economic effects of this pandemic. The present study focuses on the internal mechanism of the Sustainability Oriented Innovation System and its subsequent effects on economic stability in most innovative economies. For empirical analysis of the most innovative countries (12 countries) high-income, middle-income, low-income, and lower-middle-income countries are selected. The Sustainability Oriented Innovation System is represented through the innovation input index and innovation output index. Economic stability is measured through the GDP growth rate of respective countries. A set of panel data was developed for the period of 11 years and Fixed Effect Methods were used to ascertain the empirical findings. The outcomes indicate that innovation is the main force of economic stability. The study’s results are important to policymakers to promote, stimulate and support economic stability through their strategies. Future studies may focus on the effects of the Sustainability Oriented Innovation System on economic stability in regional blocks like the EU, ASEAN, and G-20 countries.
Examining the diet quality of Canadian adults and the alignment of Canadian front-of-pack labelling regulations with other front-of-pack labelling systems and dietary guidelines
Authors: Lee Jennifer J. , Ahmed Mavra , Julia Chantal , Ng Alena Praneet , Paper Laura , Lou Wendy Y. , L’Abbé Mary R.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Canada promulgated mandatory front-of-pack labelling (FOPL) regulations in 2022, requiring pre-packaged foods meeting and/or exceeding recommended thresholds for nutrients-of-concern (i.e., saturated fat, sodium, sugars) to display a “high-in” nutrition symbol. However, there is limited evidence on how Canadian FOPL (CAN-FOPL) regulations compare to other FOPL systems and dietary guidelines. Therefore, the objectives of the study were to examine the diet quality of Canadians using the CAN-FOPL dietary index system and its alignment with other FOPL systems and dietary guidelines.

Methods

Nationally representative dietary data from the 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey-Nutrition survey (n = 13,495) was assigned dietary index scores that underpin CAN-FOPL, Diabetes Canada Clinical Practice (DCCP) Guidelines, Nutri-score, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and Canada’s Food Guide (Healthy Eating Food Index-2019 [HEFI-2019]). Diet quality was examined by assessing linear trends of nutrient intakes across quintile groups of CAN-FOPL dietary index scores. The alignment of CAN-FOPL dietary index system compared with other dietary index systems, with HEFI as the reference standard, was examined using Pearson’s correlations and к statistics.

Results

The mean [95% CI] dietary index scores (range: 0–100) for CAN-FOPL, DCCP, Nutri-score, DASH, and HEFI-2019 were 73.0 [72.8, 73.2], 64.2 [64.0, 64.3], 54.9 [54.7, 55.1], 51.7 [51.4, 51.9], and 54.3 [54.1, 54.6], respectively. Moving from the “least healthy” to the “most healthy” quintile in the CAN-FOPL dietary index system, intakes of protein, fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium increased, while intakes of energy, saturated fat, total and free sugars, and sodium decreased. CAN-FOPL showed moderate association with DCCP (r = 0.545, p < 0.001), Nutri-score (r = 0.444, p < 0.001),  and HEFI-2019 (r = 0.401, p < 0.001), but poor association with DASH (r = 0.242, p < 0.001). Slight to fair agreement was seen between quintile combinations of CAN-FOPL and all dietary index scores (к = 0.05–0.38).

Discussion

Our findings show that CAN-FOPL rates the dietary quality of Canadian adults to be healthier than other systems. The disagreement between CAN-FOPL with other systems suggest a need to provide additional guidance to help Canadians select and consume ‘healthier’ options among foods that would not display a front-of-pack nutrition symbol.
Associations of sport participation with subjective well-being: a study consisting of a sample of Chinese school-attending students
Authors: Liu Tianzhuo , Li Dong , Yang Hongying , Chi Xinli , Yan Jin
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Past studies have illustrated that the impact of sports participation on school-attending students’ well-being plays a significant role in the life course of adolescence, which is a golden period for developing sound psychological qualities. However, the relationship between sports participation and subjective well-being is not clear, particularly in Chinese primary and middle schools. Therefore, the current study was aimed to explore the relationship between sports participation and subjective well-being in elementary and middle schools in China.

Method

All involved children and adolescents were asked to conduct a self-report of their sociodemographic factors (e.g., sex, grade, and age), independence, and outcomes. The survey involved a two-stage sampling design (district school). Besides, in order to examine the relationship between participation in sports and subjective well-being, a self-report questionnaire was used. Logistic regression with 95% confidence interval and odds ratios (ORs), was conducted to investigate the relationship between sports participation and subjective well-being.

Results

A total of 67,281 participants in total provided complete data for the final analysis of the current study. The percentage of boys and girls was 51.9% and 48.1%, namely. The current study found that compared with children who never participate in sports, those children who participated sports in 1–3 times a month, 1–2 times a week, and 3 times a week and above were more likely to enjoy better well-being. Compared with children who never participate in sports, those children who in every grade participated sports in 1–3 times a month, 1–2 times a week, and 3 times a week and above were more likely to achieve better well-being.

Conclusion

Our current study offered the positive effect of sports participation on children and adolescents’ subjective well-being. For schools and governments, further studies are needed to focus on sports participation and positive feedback on adolescents’ mental health, and the three parties’ endeavors should be intervened.
Exploring associations between skin, the dermal microbiome, and ultraviolet radiation: advancing possibilities for next-generation sunscreens
Authors: Smith Matthew L. , O’Neill Catherine A. , Dickinson Mark R. , Chavan Bhaven , McBain Andrew J.
Published: June 2023

Recent studies have provided strong evidence of a functional link between the microbiota of the skin and overall host health. While sunscreens offer protection against acute and chronic dermatological damage by reflecting, absorbing and scattering ultraviolet radiation, their impact on the skin microbiota is poorly understood. The use of sunscreens may affect the skin microbiota directly or indirectly through mechanisms associated with UV protection, and conversely, the microbiota could mediate or alleviate UV-induced skin damage. Here we consider opportunities for the development of improved sunscreens including formulas that work in tandem with skin commensal microorganisms or which minimise direct effects on the skin microbiota.
Benzoxazine/amine-based polymer networks featuring stress-relaxation and reprocessability
Authors: Pursche Lea , Wolf Adrian , Urbaniak Tobias , Koschek Katharina
Published: June 2023

Amines as additives in benzoxazines are known to beneficially affect the polymerization temperature and furthermore to allow for partially reversible reaction steps yielding however a non-dynamic polybenzoxazine network. This contribution proves that the polymerization behavior of a two-component polymer of the polyetheramine Jeffamine® ED-600 and a bisphenol-A-based benzoxazine features stress-relaxation and reprocessability usually known from vitrimers. With the aim to gain a deeper understanding of the material properties of this system and the corresponding polymer structure, the reaction mechanism of a monofunctional benzoxazine and monoamine model system was studied revealing at first primary, and then secondary amine induced opening of oxazine rings, leading at first to linear polymer chains and then to covalently crosslinked networks. Both consist of repeated phenolic benzoxazine/amine motifs with permanently incorporated polyetheramine chains that do not impact the mechanical properties, compared to pure polybenzoxazine. Thermal, spectroscopic, and extraction analyses show that the addition of Jeffamine® reduces the polymerization temperature and introduces material properties such as reprocessability at the same time. Stress-relaxation measurements support the assumption that the reprocessability point to vitrimer-like molecular processes. The material shows rapid stress-relaxation of up to 11 s, a corresponding bond-exchange activation energy of 146 kJ/mol, and a topology freezing temperature of 97°C.
Learners' perspectives on the prevention and management of pregnancy school dropout: a Namibian case
Authors: Shiningayamwe Dorthea Nanghali Etuwete
Published: June 2023

Background

Namibia has had a problem with the high rate of learner pregnancy and school dropout for many years, despite implementing education sector policy on preventing and managing learner pregnancy. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of school-going learners in Namibia regarding the factors contributing to learner pregnancy and school dropout and propose interventions to address them.

Methods

This qualitative research employed interpretative phenomenological data analysis, with seventeen individual and ten focus group interviews involving 63 school-going learners: adolescents, pregnant learners, and learner parents.

Results and findings

Emerging factors driving learner pregnancy and school dropout in rural Namibian schools include older men and cattle herders preying on young girls, long school holidays, the proximity of alcohol sites near school premises, and age restrictions after maternity leave. The learners proposed interventions include prohibiting learners' access to alcohol establishments, strengthening collaborations between stakeholders, sensitizing girls and cattle herders, and ongoing advocacy efforts. Findings indicate community hostility, lack of infrastructure and resources, and learner unawareness. It is essential to mitigate community hostility and raise awareness. Incorporating the perspectives of learners in policy interventions remains crucial for effectively addressing the high rates of learner pregnancy and school dropout in rural Namibian schools.
Assessment of global sorghum production, tolerance, and climate risk
Authors: Khalifa Muhammad , Eltahir Elfatih A. B.
Published: June 2023

Some cereal crops can withstand harsh growing conditions, and, hence, can be considered an important line of defense against food shortage under climate change. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Monech) is the main food crop for millions of people, especially in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. This crop performs well under input constraints (e.g., limited water) and exhibits high resilience to adverse climate conditions (e.g., high temperature, drought, and waterlogging), making it a star crop for combating hunger under climate change. However, sorghum and other similar crops are not tolerant in absolute terms. Climate change could push the growing conditions of these crops beyond the limits they can tolerate, jeopardizing the food security of millions of people around the world. In this research, we analyzed the current status of sorghum production, trends, and factors controlling sorghum yield using empirical approaches. Especially in sub-Saharan Africa, this crop is cultivated widely under unfavorable climate conditions and sub-optimal input levels. Our findings raise multiple concerns as well as highlight opportunities for the sustainability of sorghum cultivation in a future with climate change. Sorghum yield seems to increase persistently despite global warming due to an improved inputs approach, offering hope that similar adaptation approaches can be fruitful, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. A combination of interventions including adequate use of fertilizers and technology adoption (e.g., tolerant cultivars), efficient management (e.g. improved irrigation), and better agronomic practices, is the key to boosting sorghum yield and ensuring the sustainability of this important crop under a warmer climate.
Comparative study of myocardial function in cases of feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with and without dynamic left-ventricular outflow-tract obstruction
Authors: Saito Takahiro , Suzuki Ryohei , Yuchi Yunosuke , Fukuoka Haru , Satomi Shuji , Teshima Takahiro , Matsumoto Hirotaka
Published: June 2023

In recent years, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in cats has become much more common in clinical practice due to improvements in diagnostic techniques and equipment performance. One phenotype is obstructive HCM with left ventricular (LV) outflow tract obstruction (DLVOTO). It has been reported that the presence or absence of DLVOTO does not affect long-term prognosis in cats with HCM. In this study, we evaluated and compared myocardial function in HCM-affected cats with and without DLVOTO using the two-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography. LV longitudinal strain of the endocardial, epicardial, and whole layer and LV circumferential strain of the epicardium were significantly decreased in all HCM-affected cats compared to healthy cats. However, these values were not significantly different between those with and without DLVOTO. In contrast, the endocardial and whole layers of LV circumferential strain were only significantly decreased in HCM-affected cats with DLVOTO compared to healthy cats. This could be attributed to the fact that the LV pressure load associated with DLVOTO affected the endocardial myocardium more in the LV endocardial layer, and that lower values of LV endocardial strain lowered the values of LV strain in the whole layer. In conclusion, our results suggest that LV myocardial function may have been more compromised in the HCM-affected cats with DLVOTO.
Minimizing Disparities and Developing Support by Identifying Differences in Confidence and Knowledge Related to Water Issues
Authors: Taylor Melissa , Lamm Alexa
Published: June 2023

Extension educators face challenges as they strive to keep up with critical issues in their communities, such as those surrounding water. A growing population and a diminishing water supply necessitate that Florida residents become more knowledgeable about water issues. We conducted research to determine how confident both the general public and decision makers are in Florida's water resources and to assess how aware both groups are of the state's water policies. The results revealed significant statistical differences between the two groups in almost every category analyzed. We propose relevant ways to engage in targeted programming that will bridge the gap between the general public and decision makers.
Factors Affecting Stakeholders' Willingness to Pay to Prevent the Spread of Aquatic Nuisance Species
Authors: Blaine Thomas , Lichtkoppler Frank
Published: June 2023

Physical separation of the Great Lakes and Mississippi River basins has been identified as the most effective method for preventing the transfer of aquatic nuisance species, particularly Asian carp, from the Mississippi River Basin to the Great Lakes. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers selected Extension to conduct a study of a key stakeholder group, Great Lakes charter captains, as a first step in assessing public opinion on the issue. Results reveal that the charter captains overwhelmingly support basin separation. Expanded educational outreach related to aquatic nuisance species, basin separation, and so forth would improve the ability of clientele to make informed decisions regarding separation of the basins.
What Is Professional Development Worth? Calculating the Value of Onboarding Programs in Extension
Authors: Harder Amy , Hodges Alan , Zelaya Priscilla
Published: June 2023

Return on investment (ROI) is a commonly used metric for organizations concerned with demonstrating the value of their investments; it can be used to determine whether funds spent providing professional development programs for Extension professionals are good investments. This article presents a method for calculating ROI for an onboarding program on the basis of the changes in competency levels from before to after program participation. Although limitations to the method exist, the data generated can be used for engaging in meaningful discussions about the value of investing in professional development in Extension organizations.
Using Cluster Analysis to Target Educational Messages to Consumers
Authors: Kratsch Heidi , Skelly JoAnne , Hill George , Donaldson Susan
Published: June 2023

Cluster analysis is a common marketing tool for identifying groups of customers, clients, or consumers similar enough in demographics, behaviors, or attitudes to warrant specialized methods for targeting them with a desired message. We used cluster analysis on data from an integrated pest management (IPM) survey of the general public to categorize groups by their similarities with regard to IPM-related attitudes and behaviors. We describe how we used these data to target critical IPM messages in ways most likely to elicit positive behavior change. The methods we used could be applied in many disciplines to target Extension educational messages to diverse client groups.
Do You YouTube? The Power of Brief Educational Videos for Extension
Authors: Langworthy Sara
Published: June 2023

The growth of online video provides a tremendous opportunity for Extension professionals to expand the reach of educational content. Through repurposing existing content, we at the University of Minnesota Extension Children, Youth, and Family Consortium created several brief educational videos that address pressing challenges for children and families. YouTube analytics indicate that our shorter videos are more often viewed, shared, and liked by our viewers than our full-length seminar videos are. Since we began creating these videos, we have doubled our number of YouTube channel subscribers and likes and increased our video view count over 180%. Online video is a promising way for Extension professionals to extend their reach to a global audience.
Measuring Economic Impact Through Adoption: A Study of the Multi-County New Landowners Educational Series
Authors: Shackelford Philip , Murphrey Theresa , Dozier Monty , Ripley Jeff , Lockett Landry
Published: June 2023

The Multi-County New Landowners Educational Series is an Extension education program offered in Austin, Colorado, Fayette, and Washington Counties in Texas. We sent an online survey to past participants of the program (those who participated between 2006 and 2010; N = 162). Findings revealed significant adoption of several best management practices that resulted in perceived increases in value per acre of participants' properties, with the grand mean increase being $26.57 per acre. The data we collected illustrate the need for continued evaluation of the economic impact of Extension programs. In addition to discussing our methodology and findings, we identify opportunities and challenges related to documenting such impact.
Demonstrating Impact Through Replicable Analysis: Implications of an Evaluation of Arkansas's Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program
Authors: Phelps Josh , Lane Allison , Crook Tina , Hakkak Reza , Fuller Serena
Published: June 2023

The evaluation described in this article focused on the effectiveness of Arkansas's Extension-based Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) but demonstrates an analytic approach that may be useful across Extension programs. We analyzed data from 1,810 Arkansas EFNEP participants' entry and exit Behavior Checklists to assess reliability of the checklist tool and explore behavior changes. The results demonstrate continued effectiveness of Arkansas EFNEP in delivering impactful health-related programming. Details of our process may provide direction for program leaders in determining which programmatic areas need attention to improve outcomes and in identifying best practices within particular program areas.
Two Key Aspects of Maintaining Professionalism During a Conflict
Authors: Torretta Alayne
Published: June 2023

Rational detachment and effective communication are tools Extension professionals can use to increase their effectiveness at handling agitated individuals in conflict situations, such as those that can occur during certain 4-H events. If you need to enhance your ability to defuse conflicts, understanding these skills is an important step. You can learn to handle conflicts effectively and professionally without becoming angry or responding improperly. Rationally detaching from altercations can help you gain credibility and, thus, make your points more profoundly. Also, by using a three-pronged approach to communication—incorporating appropriate body language, tone of voice, and empathic words—you can gain control of potentially explosive situations rather than try to control those involved.
A Conversation Tool for Assessing a Food Pantry's Readiness to Address Diet-Related Chronic Diseases
Authors: Remley Dan
Published: June 2023

Food insecurity is associated with diabetes and other chronic diseases. Individuals who experience food insecurity may use coping skills to avoid hunger, including eating unhealthful foods and binging when food is abundant, two practices that are often detrimental to prevention or management of chronic diseases. Food pantries, especially those using the Rainbow of Colors Choice Food Pantry System, are potential settings for providing nutrition education, healthful foods, and screenings to help individuals prevent or manage their chronic diseases. This article describes a conversation guide Extension professionals can use to assist food pantry personnel in identifying and implementing strategies for addressing chronic diseases.
Blood Pressure Status and Its Indicators in Individuals Covered by Integrated Health Centers in Bandar Abbas, Iran
Authors: Fallahi Soghra , Rafati Shideh , Kamalzadeh Hesamaddin , Aghamolaei Teamur , Farshidi Hossein , Dadras Masoud , Mousavinejad Seyedeh Masoumeh , Dastsouz Farideh , Nikparvar Marzieh
Published: June 2023

Background: Controlling hypertension is a key component in the management of cardiovascular risk factors and is an essential part of the prevention strategy. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in seven integrated health centers covering most families in Bandar Abbas from July 2019 to February 2020. The sample size was estimated to include 968 individuals. Independent samples t-test and Chi-square test were used to compare groups. In addition, some factors affecting uncontrolled blood pressure were identified using logistic regression. Results: In this study, 68.4% and 31.6% were women and men, respectively, of whom 136 cases were single, while 756 cases were married. With an increase in age, the prevalence of uncontrolled hypertension in both genders showed a significant increase (P<0.001). Univariate logistic regression (crude odds ratios, ORs) demonstrated that age over 60 years, smoking, diabetes mellitus, physical inactivity, and the use of salt were the most important factors influencing the presence of uncontrolled hypertension. According to the results of the multivariable logistic regression model, smoking was the most important factor affecting the inability to control hypertension since controlling the effect of other variables triggered the chance of not controlling hypertension in smokers as 2.76 times higher than in non-smokers (adjusted OR: 2.76, 95% confidence interval: 1.05-7.26). Conclusion: Since using table salt, a sedentary lifestyle, and smoking count as risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, necessary prevention and treatment planning are strongly recommended to control modifiable risk factors in this city through public education.
Evaluation of the Expression Intensity of Glucose Transporter-1 Marker and its Diagnostic Value in Differentiating Between Borderline and Malignant Ovarian Epithelial Tumors
Authors: Naji Hadadi Siamak , Ayatollahi Hale , Noushyar Masoumeh
Published: June 2023

Background: Ovarian cancer ranks second among gynecological cancers worldwide. This study aimed to compare the glucose transporter-1 (GLUT-1) expression in benign, borderline, and malignant ovarian epithelial tumors and evaluate GLUT-1 expression as a diagnostic tool for distinguishing tumors in the ovary. Materials and Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study analyzed 69 pathological samples of patients diagnosed with ovarian epithelial tumors who underwent oophorectomy. Immunohistochemical staining was performed using GLUT-1 antibody. The intensity of cell membrane staining and the proportion of positive neoplastic cells were graded to score immunostaining. Chi-square/Fisher’s exact test was used to analyze the data. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV), and staining accuracy for GLUT-1 in distinguishing borderline from invasive tumors were calculated by standard methods (P<0.05). Results: In all benign tumors, GLUT-1 staining was negative. In addition, weak staining intensity was observed in 38.5% of borderline tumors, and 96% of invasive tumors had strong staining intensity (P<0.001). Strong GLUT-1 staining was found in 94.7% of Papillary Serous Carcinoma, 9/1% of Borderline Serous tumors, 100% of Brenner tumors, and clear cell carcinoma. The results demonstrated a high diagnostic value of GLUT-1 expression intensity in differentiating between borderline and malignant ovarian epithelial tumors (Accuracy: 97.10, Sensitivity: 96%, Specificity: 97.73). Conclusion: Overall, GLUT-1 expression could help distinguish benign from borderline, especially borderline from malignant ovarian epithelial tumors. Thus, it seems that it provides useful prognostic information, particularly for the borderline category.
The Relationship Between Food Allergens and Migraine Among Patients With Migraine Referring to Shahid Mohammadi Neurology Clinic
Authors: Negahi Ahmadagha , Tamoradi Ahmad , Ahmadi Behnam , Piroozan Afsoon , Hosseini Tashnizi Saeed
Published: June 2023

Background: Although diet-induced migraines affect many people, the triggering foodstuffs are not fully identified yet. Detecting migraine-triggering foods and susceptible individuals assist in effective headache management. The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between eating allergens and developing or exacerbating migraine. Methods: This was a descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study with 230 migraine patients referring to the neurology clinic of Shahid Mohammadi hospital in Bandar Abbas. They were selected through purposive sampling. After obtaining informed consent from the patients, the required data were collected and then underwent analysis. Results: Overall, 52.4% and 47.6% of participants were females and males, respectively. Their mean age was 40.57±14.04. Based on the results, 61.9% of participants were married, and 60.3% of them had a family history of migraine. The average number of headaches per month and the duration of each headache were 3.16-4.19 times and 3.76-4.41 hours, respectively. Based on the findings, sausages (55.6%), carbonated beverages (0.54%), peanuts (0.46%), beef (44.4%), and canned food, coffee, and eggs (41.3%) are the most common foodstuffs that cause or exacerbate migraines. On the other hand, chicken (15.9%), strawberry, rice, and wheat (17.5%) had the least impact on the onset and exacerbation of migraine headaches. Conclusion: According to the results, identifying food allergens and eliminating them from patients’ diets can be effective in the prognosis of migraine and individuals’ quality of life.
The Effect of Topical Diltiazem on Post-Hemorrhoidectomy Pain: A Cohort Study
Authors: Sayadinia Mehrdad , Hadavandkhani Ali , Sayadinia Mahan
Published: June 2023

Background: Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker that can prevent calcium absorption by myocytes and decrease the tone of the internal anal sphincter. Thus, it can be used for the treatment of anal fissures; however, its effect on post-hemorrhoidectomy pain is unclear. Accordingly, the current study aimed to evaluate the effect of topical diltiazem on post-hemorrhoidectomy pain. Methods: This cohort study included 50 candidates of hemorrhoidectomy referred to Shahid Mohammadi Hospital, Bandar Abbas, Iran from March 20, 2020, to March 21, 2021. First, the characteristics of the patients, including age, gender, degree of hemorrhoid, and the number of hemorrhoid pockets were recorded based on the study purpose. One group received topical diltiazem 2% three times a day for three days after hemorrhoidectomy, and the other group received Vaseline®. Both groups also received 500 mg paracetamol tablets. Post-hemorrhoidectomy pain was assessed using a numerical rating scale (NRS) by patients on the first and third days after surgery. The cumulative amount of consumed paracetamol was also noted on the third day. Results: Patients in both groups were comparable regarding age, gender, degree of hemorrhoids, and the number of pockets. There was no significant difference between groups in terms of pain on the first day after surgery (P=0.626), while the mean pain score was significantly lower in the diltiazem group on the third day compared to the placebo group (P<0.001). Finally, the cumulative amount of consumed paracetamol was significantly higher in the placebo group (P=0.001). Conclusion: Overall, topical diltiazem appears to be more effective than placebo for post-hemorrhoidectomy pain reduction.
An Overview of the Science of Parasitology Simply for the General Public
Authors: Ghorbani Alireza
Published: June 2023

Every year, millions of people in the world are infected with parasitic diseases, and the main conflict with parasitic diseases is in countries with hot and humid climates and low levels of hygiene. Parasites can damage human and animal communities in different ways, and these damages can be highly extensive. Parasites exist in microscopic and macroscopic forms, which are transmitted to humans and animals through different ways, including water, food, or insect bites. Controlling and examining the transmission ways of parasites is the most important way to prevent parasitic diseases. Although these control programs are being implemented today, one of the extremely important points in controlling parasites is that parasites are eukaryotic organisms, and treatment and control of these organisms is much more difficult compared to prokaryotic organisms. Accordingly, increasing public knowledge is the best way to deal with parasites.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infection Among School Children of Bajawar, Pakistan
Authors: Subhan Fazal , Khan Wali , Ur Rahman Hafeez , Ahmed Shabir , Mehmood Sardar Azhar , Fadladdin Yousef Abdal Jalil
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are caused by protozoan and helminths and are among the most widespread infection in poor populations. The current study aimed to investigate factors affecting the prevalence IPI among children going to school at the primary level in District Bajaur. Methods: After obtaining official approval from the school administration, a formal consent questionnaire was filled out by the selected children based on age, education level, and parents’ income. A total of 687 fecal samples were collected from August 2019 to December 2019 in seven subdivisions of Bajaur and were examined through normal saline and Lugol’s iodine solutions (direct smear method). Results: The prevalence of infection was noticed in 58.5% (n=402/687) of samples, in which the highest prevalent parasite was Ascaris lumbricoides (39.8%, n=160/402), followed by Taenia saginata (18.1%, n=73/402), Entamoeba histolytica (15.4%, n=62/402), Enterobius vermicularis (8.70%, n=35/402), Giardia lamblia (7.46%, n=30/402), and Trichuris trichiura (5.47%, n=22/402). On the other hand, the lowest prevalence rate was noted for Hymenolepis nana in only 7 samples, including 2 cases (28.57%) in males and 5 cases (71.43%) in females, respectively. The students of grade 5 were more adapted to hand washing (90.9%), while the lowest rate of hand washing was observed in kindergarten and 1st class children (P>0.05). The children of the low classes were found to eat raw food materials more than those of the high classes (P>0.05). The same case was also detected for water sources (P>0.05), while the children of the 1st and 2nd classes were found more associated with pet animals than the other students (P>0.05). Mon parasitism and polyparasitism were observed at 76.6% (n=308/402) and 4.95% (n=20/402), respectively. Conclusion: The current study calls for the control of IPI among children of the study region as polyparasitism as an alarming reason.
Mental Toughness Changes Among Smokers: A Case-control Study
Authors: Mobahi Fatemeh
Published: June 2023

Background: Smoking is one of the biggest challenges in human life today. Stress or negative emotions have a significant impact on smokers. Moreover, mental toughness is a psychological characteristic that enables people to cope with emotional pressure. Therefore, in the present study, changes in mental toughness among smokers were investigated. Materials and Methods: This questionnaire-based case-control study was conducted on 212 smokers and 295 non-smokers using standard questionnaires. The Mental Toughness Questionnaire with 48 items (MTQ-48) and the Fagerstrom test with 6 items were used to assess mental toughness and nicotine dependence, respectively. Mental toughness consists of 4 components: commitment, challenge, trust, and control. Both paper and online questionnaires were used. The study population was randomly selected from across the country between July and August 2021. All results were selfreported and the accuracy of the collected data was not verified. Results: A total of 469 subjects, including 197 smokers and 272 non-smokers, were included in the study. Statistical analysis revealed that the mean scores of the challenge, life and emotional control, and self-confidence scales differed statically between the two groups of smokers and non-smokers (P<0.0.5). In addition, there was a statically significant difference between female smokers and non-smokers only in life and emotional control (P<0.0.5). We also found a statically significant difference in the total mental toughness score between the two groups (P<0.0.5). Conclusion: It seems that mental toughness decreases significantly in smokers and this can be considered as one of the potential causes of the increased tendency to smoke.
PENINGKATAN KAPASITAS SUMBER DAYA MANUSIA (SDM) KEANGGOTAAN BPD DAN ANGGOTA BUM DESA PURWOREJO KECAMATAN SANAN KULON TAHUN 2020
Authors: Masrunik Endah , Wahyudi Arif , Khoirianto Redy
Published: June 2023

Tujuan diadakan pelatihan ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kapasitas sumber daya manusia (SDM) keanggotaan BPD dan Anggota Bum Desa sehingga mampu meningkatkan kinerja organisasi. Metode yang digunakan dalam kegiata pengamdian masyarakat ini yaitu: metode ceramah, tanya jawab dan diskusi. Hasil dari kegiatan pengabdian masyarakat ini adalah kegiatan berjalan dengan lancar, peserta sangat antusias dalam mengikuti kegiatan pelatihan mulai awal hingga akhir.
PELATIHAN PEMBUATAN JAHE INSTAN SEBAGAI UPAYA MENINGKATKAN PENDAPATAN KELOMPOK WANITA TANI (KWT) DI KELURAHAN KARANGSARI KOTA BLITAR
Authors: Aditya Luhur
Published: June 2023

RINGKASAN

Di Indonesia sering dijumpai minuman berlabel minumansehat yang biasa dikonsumsi oleh masyarakat, salah satunya yaitu minuman jahe.. Hanya saja proses pembuatan minuman serbuk jahe inilah yang memakan waktu dan tenaga yang cukup banyak sehingga tidak bisa disalahkan apalagi posisi terlaris digantikan oleh minuman yang siap minum dengan varian rasa kekinian. Maka dari itu, untuk mengatasi persoalan tersebut dilakukan sebuah inovasi baru dengan melahirkan minuman herbal instan dengan menggunakan bahan utama jahe lokal dengan metode pelatihan kepada masyarakat.

Rumusan masalah yang diambil adalah bagaimana memanfaatkan jahe supaya bernilai jual tinnggi. Metode pelaksanaan pelaksanaan pengabdian ini adalah metode ceramah atau presentasi dan metode praktek yang dilaksanakan pada tanggal 5 September 2021 di Kelurahan karangsari , Kec Sukorejo Kota Blitar.

 Peserta kegiatan pelatihan pembuatan jahe instan adalah Kelompok Wanita Tani di Kelurahan Karangsari Kota Blitar yang berjumlah 15 orang.. Adapun bahan yang harus disiapkan dalam pembuatan jahe instan adalah jahe 0,5 kg yang sudah dibersihkan,gula 1 kg dan rempah rempah. Sedangkan proses pembuataanya adalah ambil sari jahe dengan mencapur air sebanyak 0,5 liter,sari jahe yang sudah diambil kemudian dipanaskan dan masukkan gula beserta rempah rempah setelah itu tunggu sampai gula mengkristal sambil diaduk.Proses selanjutanya adalah pengemasan dan pemasaran. Dengan adanya pelatihan ini Kelompok Wanita Tani mampu membuat dan memasarkana produk jahe instan di masyarakat luas
Pengaruh Waktu Perendaman Air Laut Terhadap Kuat Tekan Beton Menggunakan Semen Kupang dengan Bahan Tambah Fly Ash
Authors: Siba Maria Magdalena , Sina Dantje A. , Rizal H.A Hidayat
Published: June 2023

Bangunan yang terdapat di daerah sekitaran laut seperti pelabuhan, pemecah ombak dan jembatan perlu dilakukan perawatan beton (curing) terhadap air laut. Air laut sendiri memiliki kandungan garam sebanyak 3,5% yang dapat menggrogoti kekuatan dan keawetan beton. Hal ini di sebabkan kandungan  Clorida  (Cl) yang begitu tinggi pada air laut merupakan garam yang bersifat agresif terhadap bahan lain termasuk beton. Maka diberikan bahan penambahan fly ash pada beton bangunan air laut yang berfungsi sebagai penutup rongga­-rongga pada beton dan dapat meningkatkan kekuatan beton. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis kekuatan tekan beton dan pengaruh  umur perendaman terhadap merek Semen Kupang dengan penambahan variasi fly ash sebanyak 4 sampel dengan komposisi berbeda yaitu 0%, 20%, 40% dan 60%  serta menggunakan variasi perendaman dalam air laut selama 28 hari, 60 hari, dan 90 hari. Perancangan campuran beton ini menggunakan SK SNI 03-2834-2000 dengan mutu rencana 25 MPa. Hasil pengujian kuat tekan beton yang berumur 28 hari, dengan komposisi fly ash 0%, 20%, 40% dan 60%  yakni : 21,57 MPa, 21,99 MPa, 20,19 MPa dan 19,53 MPa. Kuat tekan beton yang berumur 60 hari dengan komposisi fly ash 0%, 20%, 40% dan 60%  yakni : 25,67 MPa, 25,86 MPa, 20,76 MPa dan 20,19 MPa. kuat tekan beton yang berumur 90 hari dengan komposisi fly ash 0%, 20%, 40% dan 60%  yakni : 21,33 MPa, 20,51 MPa, 20,38 MPa dan 19,63 MPa. Berdasarkan hasil pengujian, nilai kuat tekan tertinggi dan terendah adalah  pada persentase fly ash 20% pada umur 60 hari dan persentase fly ash 60% pada umur 28 hari.
Pengembangan RAB dan Analisa Harga Satuan Pekerjaan Jaringan Irigasi Berbasis Android
Authors: Besituba Maria Fransiska , Simatupang Partogi H. , Rizal H.A Hidayat
Published: June 2023

Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk menghasilkan sebuah aplikasi android untuk perhitungan RAB dan Analisa Harga Satuan Pekerjaan Jaringan Irigasi Berbasis Android. Perhitungan RAB dan Analisa Harga Satuan Pekerjaan Jaringan Irigasi berbasis android menggunakan Android Studio dengan Java sebagai bahasa pemograman. Dalam penelitian ini menggunakan metode waterfall.  Hasil dari penelitian ini yaitu aplikasi perhitungan  RAB dan AHSP Jaringan Irigasi yang digunakan di platform android dan output berupa file PDF (AHSP, RAB dan Rekapitulasi). Aplikasi ini memuat   beberapa menu yaitu Splash Screen, Cover, Login, Register, Informasi Proyek, Analisa Harga Satuan Pekerjaan, Rencana Anggaran Biaya, Rekapitulasi dan Ouput. Aplikasi ini menggunakan Minimum SDK (API:5.0 (Lolipop)) sehingga hanya  dapat digunakan oleh user  yang memiliki Versi Android 5.0 keatas. Dan aplikasi digunakan secara online (membutuhkan internet).
ANALISIS FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI NIAT PEGAWAI PEMERINTAH DAERAH DALAM MELAKUKAN TINDAKAN WHISTLEBLOWING STUDI PADA PEMERINTAH DAERAH TIMOR TENGAH UTARA
Authors: Tani’i Maria Ursula , Dethan Minarni Anaci
Published: June 2023

This study aims to determine the Organizational Commitment, Personal Cost, Reward, and Attitude of Influence partially and simultaneously on the intentions of local government employees in carrying out whistleblowing actions. This type of research is quantitative descriptive research. Data obtained by distributing questionnaires to 446 respondents. The data analysis technique used is multiple linear analysis. The results of the analysis show (1) Organizational Commitment has no effect on employee intentions to take whistleblowing actions (2) Personal cost affects employee intentions to take whistleblowing actions (3) Rewards do not affect employee intentions to take whistleblowing actions (4) Attitude affects employee intentions to take action whistleblowing (5) Organizational Commitment and Rewards have no significant effect on employees' intentions to take whistleblowing actions and Personal Costs and Attitudes have a significant effect on employees' intentions to take whistleblowing actions.
Angkatan Kerja dan Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Pengangguran
Authors: Adriyanto Adriyanto , Prasetyo Didi , Khodijah Rosmiyati
Published: June 2023

Penulisan  ini merupakan kajian jumlah angkatan kerja dan pengangguran yang bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan ketenagakerjaan serta faktor-faktor yang mempengaruhi tingkat pengangguran. Metode yang digunakan adalah deskriptif kualitatif. Hasil menunjukan bahwa  secara potensial Indonesia mempunyai kemampuan sumber daya manusia yang cukup untuk dikembangkan dan di lain pihak dihadapkan dengan berbagai kendala khususnya di bidang ketenagakerjaan. Perkembangan jumlah angkatan kerja yang pesat namun tidak diikuti tersedianya lapangan pekerjaan yang cukup. Kendala lainnya yakni penawaran tenaga kerja yang tidak sesuai dengan kebutuhan atau kualifikasi tertentu yang dituntut oleh pasar tenaga kerja meskipun permintaan sangat tinggi sehingga menimbulkan angka pengangguran yang semakin tinggi. Upah Minimum juga sangat berpengaruh terhadap tingkat pengangguran, besar kecilnya upah yang ditetapkan oleh pemerintah sangat berpengaruh terhadap tingkat pengangguran yang ada. Setiap kenaikan tingkat upah akan diikuti oleh turunnya tenaga kerja yang diminta, yang berarti akan menyebabkan meningkatnya pengangguran. Diharapkan Pemerintah berkomitmen untuk memperbanyak pembukaan lapangan kerja baru yang dapat menyerap tenaga kerja yang banyak  untuk mengurangi angka pengangguran yang berimplikasi pada pengurangan angka kemiskinan.
Economy is not a barometer of the age of woman's first marriage
Authors: Bano Rafly Parenta , Saifudin Muhammad , Lobwaer Anthonia Karolina Rejo
Published: June 2023

One of the most interesting topics in studies related to women, family to marriage is the issue of the age of first marriage for women. This study aims to determine the social, economic and demographic factors on the age at first marriage of women in Indonesia. Cox proportional hazard regression analysis was applied to the results data. The results indicate that singulate mean age at marriage (SMAM) and the average age at first marriage for women in Indonesia are around 23.42 years and 19.52 years, respectively. The results of both bivariate and multivariate statistical analysis show that all independent variables significantly determine the time of women's first marriage in Indonesia. The variables level of education, residence and female birth cohort are the most significant variables in the model. This study found that women from the youngest generation (gene Z) had a higher likelihood of marrying earlier than women from the previous generation. Overall, it was found that there was a shift in the factor at determinant age the first marriage of women, where education was the barometer, so that more vigorous efforts are needed to keep Indonesian women in school for a long time, in this case, girls who come from economically disadvantaged households should be given a full free scholarship up to the level of undergraduate education.
Daya Dukung Tiang Helix Rakit Pada Tanah Gambut Dengan Menggunakan Metode FEM
Authors: Budianto Eko , Muhidin Achmad Bakri , Arsyad Ardy
Published: June 2023

Tanah gambut dalam pembangunan infrastruktur seringkali menjadi permasalahan. Hal ini disebabkan oleh rendahnya daya dukung tanah tersebut dan sifat organiknya yang tinggi. Perbaikan daya dukung tanah dapat dilakukan dengan melakukan perkuatan menggunakan pondasi tiang yang merupakan elemen kolom dalam pondasi dengan  fungsi memindahkan beban dari struktur di bagian atas. Salah satu metode perbaikan tanah yang dilakukan untuk perkuatan tanah lunak  antara lain dengan pondasi tiang helix-rakit. Studi ini melakukan permodelan pondasi tiang helix-rakit pada deposisi tanah gambut dengan menggunakan pendekatan metode FEM untuk menginvestigasi daya dukung dan penurunan elastis pada pondasi tiang helix-rakit. Pada studi ini program komputer yang berbasis elemen hingga digunakan untuk menganalisa hubungan beban dan penurunan pada tiang helix-rakit yang dilalui beban. Hasil studi ini menunjukan penurunan pondasi tiang helix rakit makin berkurang seiring bertambahnya jumlah tiang helix. Namun demikian terdapat maksimal jumlah tiang helix yang digunakan, dikarenakan lebih dari jumlah ini, penurunan pondasi tiang helix-rakit tidak lagi signifikan.
Pemodelan Septic Tank Komunal Ramah Lingkungan
Authors: Palaguna Saenal Basri , Hairulla Hairulla , Suyadi Suyadi
Published: June 2023

Kabupaten Merauke adalah kota yang mengalami proses berkembang. Dengan wilayah yang sangat luas, dan jumlah penduduk  yang cukup banyak, serta pembangunan infrastruktur dan tempat tinggal (perumahan),  menyebabkan lingkugan juga perlu dipikirkan untuk meningkatkan kondisi yang baik untuk ditempati masyarakat. Adapun tujuan utama penelitian ini adalah sebagai berikut: a). Untuk menguji kelayakan septic tank komunal dengan mengetahui perbadingan nilai pH air limbah. b). Untuk merencanakan desain septic tank komunal sesuai dengan kelayakannya. Metode pembuatan septic tank Komunal yang kami buat adalah metode Aerobic dan Anaerobic sistem, dan juga kami menggunakan prototipe septic tank yang terbuat dari kaca untuk melakukan percobaan pemodelan septic tank komunal. pengujian ini menggunakan air limba (tidak menggunakan limbah padat feses) di campur lumpur sebagai bahan pengujian. Kami juga menggunakan Ph meter untuk mengukur Ph air dalam percobaan kami. Hasil penelitian yang telah dilakukan oleh peneliti, maka didapat hasil perbandingan nilai pH pada pengujian air limbah menggunakan hasil desain pemodelan sepic tank komunal. Pada percobaan pertama Nilai pH yang didapat yaitu pH awal (air limbah pada saat sebelum dilakukan pengujian yaitu pH 9.0, dan nilai pH setelah dilakukan pengujian maka nilai pH yang didapat pada percobaan pertama sebesar pH 8.0, pada percobaan kedua sebesar  pH 7.7 dan Pada percobaan ketiga sebesar pH 7.6.