bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public health insurance: An approach to mitigate the burden of diabetes in low resource settings
Authors: Egwim Jideuma I , Kyulo Namgyal , Danawi Hadi , Mendelsohn Aaron B.
Published: March 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a significant public health concern globally as well as in Owerri, Nigeria. The deleterious effects of diabetes have been linked to poor glycemic control. According to the International Diabetes Federation, poor glycemic control is reflected in glycosylated hemoglobin levels greater than 7.0%, which are associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Studies have shown a dramatic rise in diabetic complications in Nigeria, particularly in Owerri. However, evidence is lacking on specific risk factors associated with poor glycemic control among diabetes mellitus patients in Owerri. There is a gap in the literature regarding the association between health insurance and glycemic control in diabetic patients in Owerri. With health insurance assuming a significant position in healthcare service delivery in Nigeria, addressing this gap is valuable. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study of health insurance as a determinant of glycemic control among 160 type 2 diabetic patients attending the family medicine clinic at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, formerly the Federal Medical Center, Owerri. Participants were measured as not insured, insured-private, and insured-public/National Health Insurance Scheme. The dependent variable was glycemic control measured using glycosylated hemoglobin. We used ecosocial theory as the theoretical framework of this research. SPSS was used for data analysis; multiple logistic regression was applied to assess the association between insurance status and glycemic control in the participants. Results:In the patients without health insurance coverage, the prevalence of poor glycemic control was 93.8% whereas in those with health insurance coverage, the prevalence was 60.0%. Logistic regression analysis showed that lack of access to health insurance was a determinant of glycemic control, with uninsured subjects at 28 times and 6 times increased risk of poor glycemic control compared with insured-private and insured-public subjects, respectively. Conclusion: We have shown in our study that insured enrollees have an increased likelihood of good glycemic control relative to uninsured subjects. This finding has the potential to promote positive social change through optimization of the National Health Insurance Scheme. Enabling regulations and designing policies to explicitly cover diabetes preventive and control services in the scheme could lead to improved glycemic control, and, thus, reduce the burden of the disease.
Avaliação de lacunas de conhecimento em interpretação do hemograma
Authors: Cordeiro Fernanda de Nazaré Cardoso dos Santos , Botelho Nara Macedo
Published: March 2024

As lacunas de conhecimento retratam a limitação sobre determinado assunto. Há grande discussão e reflexão sobre o modo de produzir conhecimento na atualidade e podemos lançar mão de inúmeras metodologias e ferramentas para levar aprendizado, inclusive no campo das Habilidades Clínicas, ou seja, nas atividades práticas. O hemograma é um exame que fornece uma grande diversidade de informações, que podem ser inespecíficas, mas que auxiliam a prática clínica. Devido a alta relevância destes temas na formação médica este trabalho tem como tema determinar as lacunas de conhecimento sobre hemograma entre estudantes do curso de Medicina, buscando um maior aprendizado. Para tanto será realizado um estudo transversal observacional com aplicação de questionário eletrônico após assinatura de termo de consentimento entre estudantes do curso de Medicina do 5º ao 12º semestre. De um total de 81 estudantes entrevistados 84,61% era do gênero feminino e 58,02% estava na faixa etária entre 21 e 25 anos. A série vermelha foi considerada a mais fácil de interpretar (66.66% e a série branca a mais difícil (61,72%) com as maiores lacunas estando na associação com investigação diagnostica e formulação de hipótese diagnostica. Podemos perceber, portanto, que existem várias lacunas de conhecimento, mas que a interpretação do Hemograma pode ser uma competência a ser ensinada durante o curso de Medicina com melhora do raciocínio clínico e tomas de decisões mais assertivas para melhor condução dos pacientes.
Simultaneidade de comportamentos de risco para doenças crônicas não transmissíveis: uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Oliveira Priscila Antunes de , Macedo Mônica Thaís Soares , Anjos Jamile Pereira Dias dos , Trovão Carolina Ananias Meira , Rocha Maria Clara Brant , Rocha João Gustavo Brant , Almeida Janaína Marques de , Rocha Josiane Santos Brant
Published: March 2024

Objetivou-se com esse estudo descrever os fatores associados a simultaneidade de fatores de risco para as doenças crônicas não transmissíveis (DCNT) em adultos. Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura, considerando estudos publicados entre 2017 e 2023. Foram realizadas buscas nas bases de dados Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (BVS), Scientific Electronic Library Online (Scielo), LILACS (Literatura Latino Americana e do Caribe em Ciências de Saúde) e National Library of Medicine (PubMed). Para a estratégia de busca utilizou-se os seguintes descritores em diferentes combinações por meio de operadores booleanos: “chronic diseases”, “risk factors”, “simultaneity”. Foram identificados 38 artigos dos quais 14 compuseram a amostra final do estudo.Os fatores associados a simultaneidade de fatores de risco para DCNT foram: maior idade, sexo, dieta pouco saudável, excesso de peso, inatividade física, tabagismo, uso      abusivo de álcool. Identificaram-se ainda riscos influenciados por fatores sociodemográficos desfavoráveis, como baixa renda e menor escolaridade. De modo geral, os homens, negros/pardos, com baixa escolaridade foram mais propensos a apresentarem simultaneidade de comportamentos de risco.Conclui-se que parcela significativa dos estudos apresentou alta prevalência e presença simultânea de três ou mais fatores de risco para o desenvolvimento das DCNT nas populações investigadas. O estudo da simultaneidade dos fatores de risco para as DCNT é um tema de grande importância, porém a sua incidência na população adulta ainda é pouco explorada, pois a maioria dos estudos analisa esses fatores de forma isolada. Evidências mostram que os comportamentos de risco se relacionam e geralmente ocorrem de forma simultânea.
Young adults: activating hope for policy change
Authors: Skarżyńska Krystyna
Published: March 2024

This article outlines the reasons for the aversion of young Polish women and men to politics, expressed in a lack of interest in politics, distrust of politicians and political institutions, and the low turnout of young people in most democratic elections in the Third Republic. The young generation did not feel political support for the realisation of aspirations and needs, and were less enthusiastic about democracy than their parents' generation. They also felt an intergenerational dissonance in terms of values and lifestyles. The young are more oriented towards secular values and self-expression than their parents. Particularly evident is the increased importance of these values among young women, as evidenced by analyses conducted by the researchers quoted in the text (e.g.: M. Marody and J. Raciborski). The Constitutional Court's ruling of 22 October 2020, delegitimising and criminalising abortion, prompted hundreds of thousands of young Polish women to stage almost two months of protests. These protests gained the support of more than 50% of the population, yet the authorities ignored them, using the police to disperse them and the party media to harshly criticise the participants. Despite the lack of expected impact among the participants, they left behind a good memory of a supportive community, which young people have rediscovered in various democratic opposition actions, meetings with leaders, Campus Poland, opposition programmes and most recently in the Million Hearts March. The numerous pro-frequency campaigns were also not insignificant. A post of active hope was created and this led to the mass participation of young people in the last elections.
Sprawozdanie z I Ogólnopolskiej Konferencji Młodych Naukowców „Proces badawczy w naukach społecznych. Współczesne wyzwania i perspektywy” zorganizowanej przez Szkołę Doktorską Akademii Pedagogiki Specjalnej im. Marii Grzegorzewskiej w Warszawie w dniach 6‒7 października 2023 r.
Authors: Tłuściak-Deliowska Aleksandra
Published: March 2024

Sprawozdanie z I Ogólnopolskiej Konferencji Młodych Naukowców „Proces badawczy w naukach społecznych. Współczesne wyzwania i perspektywy” zorganizowanej przez Szkołę Doktorską Akademii Pedagogiki Specjalnej im. Marii Grzegorzewskiej w Warszawie w dniach 6‒7 października 2023 r.
Veterinary Vaccines: Unlocking the Power of Immunization for Livestock Health — A Review
Authors: Moges Eriso , Ushula Biruk , Darcho Israel
Published: March 2024

Vaccines are all biological substances produced from living things and administered to trigger the host’s body defense system to develop immunity against a specific pathogen from which they were produced. They work by stimulating either humoral or cell-mediated immunity, or both, to differentiate. There are several types of vaccines, like live attenuated, killed, or inactivated vaccines, cell membrane compounds, or toxoids. Vaccines are important for disease prevention, enhancing the efficiency of food production, and reducing or preventing transmission of zoonotic and foodborne infections to people. Even though vaccination is the most powerful and cost-effective weapon of disease prevention, there are several factors such as alterations in the vaccines, maternal antibodies, immunosuppression, wrong timing of vaccination, missing booster vaccination, inadequate dosage, and adjuvants used in the vaccine that can cause vaccine failure. Therefore, Care should be taken in vaccine handling, storing, transporting, and administering; care should be taken in the timing of vaccination; serotypes of agents should be identified before preparing vaccines; and there should be a training program for people who are involved in vaccination, vaccine storage, and handling activities to ensure vaccine potency and maximize effectiveness.
Knowledge, Attitudes and Perception of Tutors Towards Inter-Professional Education: A Case Study at Uganda Institute of Allied Health and Management Sciences
Authors: Joanittah Nakayiza , Christopher Isabirye , Charles Muweesi , Carol Drateru Keren , Namaganda Mirembe Rose , Judith Nabateregga , Lawrence Sserwadda
Published: March 2024

With the increasing acknowledgment of the benefits of interprofessional education in the training of the health workforce, the awareness and attitudes of tutors towards this emerging concept are paramount for effectiveness in bringing out the intended outcomes. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of tutors towards interprofessional education at the Uganda Institute of Allied Health and Management Sciences. A cross-sectional descriptive mixed study design was adopted and questionnaires were administered to health tutors of the different programs at the Uganda Institute of Allied Health and Management Sciences. Findings revealed that the majority (77.8%), of the tutors lacked knowledge of the concept 63% demonstrated positive attitudes and perceptions towards IPE. It was concluded that despite the tutors’ paucity of knowledge of IPE, their attitudes and perceptions are positive, implying that if they got adequate training and facilitation upon IPE and its practices, they would gain awareness and better their confidence in facilitating and supervising training and managing conflicts that would arise during implementation of IPE. It was recommended that the National Council of Higher Education (NCHE) with support from the Ministry of Education and Sports interest themselves in this innovation and offer training to the tutors as IPE is considered in the pipeline for a better healthcare workforce production, capacitation and strengthening.
DAİMİ NEZARETÇİLİĞİN MADEN MEVZUATINDAKİ YERİ VE MADEN MÜHENDİSLERİNİN DAİMİ NEZARETÇİ OLARAK GÖREV, YETKİ VE SORUMLULUKLARI
Authors: Akbulut Akın , Özdoğan Ali Koray , Demir Behzat Gökçen
Published: March 2024

Madenlerin işletilerek üretilmesi ve sonrasında ekonomiye kazandırılması, ülkelerin kalkınması için oldukça önemlidir. Maden üretimine yönelik hazırlık çalışmaları ve maden üretimi için yapılan faaliyetler maden mevzuatı açısından işletme faaliyeti olarak tanımlanır. Maden işletme faaliyetlerinin yapılabilmesi için daimi nezaretçinin atanması gereklidir. Maden mevzuatında, daimi nezaretçi ise maden işletmesinde daimi olarak istihdam edilen maden mühendisi olarak tanımlanır. Bir maden mühendisinin daimi nezaretçi olarak atanabilmesinin öncelikli şartı daimi nezaretçi sertifikasına sahip olmasıdır. İlk kez bu sertifikayı alacak (kazanılmış hakkı bulunmayan) maden mühendislerinin eğitimlere katılması ve yapılacak sınavda başarılı olmaları gereklidir. Daimi nezaretçi eğitimleri Maden ve Petrol İşleri Genel Müdürlüğü (MAPEG) tarafından düzenlenmektedir. Daimi nezaretçi atamalarında, sertifika dışında gerekli olan şartlar Maden Yönetmeliğinde detaylı şekilde düzenlenmiştir. Daimi nezaretçi ataması, işletme faaliyetlerinin yapılabilmesi için zorunlu olmasının yanında MAPEG’e yapılan taleplerin değerlendirilebilmesi için ön koşullardan birisidir. Bu çalışmada, daimi nezaretçinin maden mevzuatından kaynaklı görev, yetki ve sorumlulukları ile eğitim süreci incelenerek, madencilik sektörü açısından önemine değinilmiştir.
Wartawan Berada Pada Posisi Dilema, Antara Idealis atau Materialis
Authors: Sibarani Perri
Published: March 2024

Wartawan merupakan sebuah profesi sosial, yang membutuhkan Tingkat pengetahuan dan wawasan yang luas agar dapat memahami arti sebuah Negara dan Negara yang berdasarkan hukum (Rechtstaat) seperti Negara Republik Indonesia yang memiliki sebuah Konstitusi sebagai pedoman dari semua peraturan Perundang-Undangan yang ada dalam perjalanan Roda Pemerintahan untuk mewujudkan Negara Kesatuan yang makmur dan Sejahtera. Untuk mewujudkanya, Negara membutuhkan sebuah pengawasan, baik dari dalam dan dari luar kekuasaan, agar tercipta sebuah pengendalian keseimbangan (Control Of Balance) antara Penguasa dan Masyarakat. Oleh karena itu, dengan upaya perjuangan yang tidak mudah, terbentuklah sebuah lembaga sosial bernama Pers. Pers dapat berjalan sesuai dengan Konstitusi dan Undang-Undang yang melandasinya. Pers dapat memberikan segala kontribusinya kepada Negara dan Rakyat sebagai pemegang Kedaulatan, hanya jika dilakukan oleh Wartawan sebagai ujung tombak dari Penyelengaraan Pers. Dapat dibayangkan apa akibatnya terhadap Bangsa dan Negara serta Rakyat Indonesia, jika Wartawan menyimpang dari apa yang seharusnya dilakukan. Begitupun di Provinsi Riau, yang menjadi sasaran penelitian penulis, sangat banyak Wartawan yang melakukan hal-hal yang tidak professional, sehingga harus berurusan dengan pihak kepolisian. Tujuan Penelitian ini adalah, untuk mencari dan menemukan permasalahan yang sesungguhnya pada kehidupan Per di Provinsi Riau, sebagai langkah ilmiah dalam merumuskan permasalahan Wartawan dalam melaksanakan tugasnya. Pendekatan-Pendekatan yang relavan untuk mengidentifikasi masalah telah dilakukan, dengan harapan, nantinya karya ilmiah ini dapat menjadi sebuah celah bagi para stekholder dunia Pers, khususnya di Provinsi Riau untuk memulai Gerakan nyata bagi penyelesaian secara tuntas dan berdasarkan peraturan perundang-undangan yang berlaku di Indonesia bagi Permasalahan Wartawan.
A retrospective chart review to identify the involvement of palliative care with glioblastoma multiforme patients
Authors: Drummond de Camargo Julia , de Souza Fernanda , de Carvalho Ramalho de Oliveira Ivy , Barbosa Jessica
Published: March 2024

Background: Glioblastoma Multiforme is a deadly brain cancer that is very challenging for patients and their families. It is associated with rapid progression, cognitive decline, and a low survival rate. Objective: To determine whether deceased Glioblastoma Multiforme patients had received follow-up service from the palliative care team before their death, whether invasive measures had been reduced, and whether the last antineoplastic treatment was given within 14–30 days before death. Method: A retrospective study utilizing chart data from January 2020 to March 2022 from an institutional project. Data were gathered to reflect selected indicators of quality of care for palliative care patients. Results: Of the 30 hospitalized patients with Glioblastoma Multiforme who had died while in hospital, 50% had received support from the palliative care team. Two patients (6.7%) had undergone antineoplastic treatment in the last 14 days of life and 13 (43.3%) had an order limiting invasive measures defined in the last two weeks of life. Conclusion: In half of the patients monitored by a palliative care team, antineoplastic treatment and limitation of invasive measures occurred in the last 14 days of life. This may be associated with increased suffering of patients, family members, and professionals. Discussions about end-of-life care-related choices and goals of care need to be respected. Keywords: oncology, palliative care, Glioblastoma Multiforme, end-of-life care
Prevalence and Outcome of COVID-19 Among Parkinson’s Disease: A Report from Iran
Authors: Vaheb Saeed , Mirmosayyeb Omid , Barzegar Mahdi , Rezaei Mina , Afsharzadeh Mahshad , Bathaie Roozbeh , Afshari-Safavi Alireza , Chitsaz Ahmad , Shaygannejad Vahid
Published: March 2024

Background: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a widely prevalent neurodegenerative disorder in the central nervous system, predominantly affecting older adults and frequently coexisting with other health conditions. The heightened vulnerability of individuals with chronic diseases and advanced age to adverse outcomes during the COVID-19 pandemic suggests an increased risk of COVID-19 infection in PD patients. Objectives: This cross-sectional study, conducted from July to September 2021, aimed to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on PD patients by examining infection rates, associated complications, and outcomes. Methods: We utilized hospital records to reach out to 567 PD patients during the designated timeframe. If a patient had passed away, their families were contacted to ascertain whether COVID-19 was a contributing factor. Results: Among the 558 PD patients who participated, 25.4% were tested for COVID-19, with 42.2% of those tested returning positive results. Significantly, 34.4% of the positive cases required oxygen therapy, 32.8% were admitted to the hospital, and 9.8% needed intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The prevalence of COVID-19 among the families of the patients was 29.8%, with 13.7% requiring hospitalization and 4.2% resulting in death. Common complications included worsening of movement issues (21.3%), weight loss (19.7%), and urinary problems (14.8%). Early-onset Parkinson's was associated with a decreased risk of COVID-19 (OR: 0.976, 95% CI: 0.953 - 0.999, P = 0.037), whereas the use of Levodopa was linked to an increased risk of infection (OR: 3.672, 95% CI: 1.095 - 12.31, P = 0.037). Conclusions: This study underscores the changing clinical manifestations of PD during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further research is crucial to clarify the complex interaction between COVID-19 and Parkinson's disease.
Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Manifestations and Predictive Factors in Pediatric Henoch-Schönlein Purpura
Authors: Hosseini Amirhossein , Rahmani Khosro , Aghajani Marjan , Javadi Vadood , Zarinfar Yasaman , Mollaei Maryam , Jahangiri Tellina , Shiari Reza , Sabooree Arsalan , Imanzadeh Farid , Sayyari Aliakbar , Hajipour Mahmoud
Published: March 2024

Background: Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is the most common type of vasculitis in children. Children with HSP often experience gastrointestinal symptoms, such as abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting, gastrointestinal bleeding, and intussusception. These symptoms are estimated to occur in 50 - 75% of cases. Objectives: In this study, we evaluated the prevalence of gastrointestinal manifestations in children with HSP and identified associated predictive factors. Methods: For this cross-sectional study, we collected data from 295 children with HSP, aged 1 to 16, who were treated at Mofid Children's Hospital in Tehran, Iran, between 2013 and 2022. We gathered the following information from hospital records: Laboratory results for ALT, AST, bilirubin, stool exam (S/E), WBC, RBC, and occult blood (OB), as well as demographic data. Clinical symptoms evaluated included fever, rash, abdominal pain, distension, tenderness, nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, anorexia, and icterus. Results: Our study included 295 children diagnosed with HSP, consisting of 46.77% females and 53.23% males. The average age was 5.3 ± 2.8 years for female patients and 6.2 ± 2.9 years for male patients. Further analysis indicated that anorexia was the most common symptom, followed by abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting, and bloody stool. We observed no significant differences in symptoms based on sex. Physical examination findings, including abdominal distension and tenderness, were similar across both sexes. Elevated levels of AST and ALT, as well as hyperbilirubinemia, were noted in some patients. Stool analysis revealed positive results for RBC, WBC, and occult blood in certain cases, with 21% testing positive for RBC, 24.85% for WBC, and 23.25% for occult blood. Anorexia showed a correlation with increased AST levels, while bloody stool was associated with higher ALT levels, hyperbilirubinemia, and direct hyperbilirubinemia. Logistic regression analysis confirmed a significant association between bloody stools and elevated ALT levels. Conclusions: In this study, we examined the clinical manifestations and laboratory findings in children with small vessel vasculitis to identify associated predictive factors. Our findings indicated that anorexia and abdominal pain were the most common clinical manifestations, with bloody stool also being a prevalent symptom. Additionally, logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the presence of bloody stool is a significant predictive factor for elevated ALT levels.
Predictive Value of Global Longitudinal Strain on the Recovery of Left Ventricular Function Following ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Attar Armin , Zahed Mahboobeh , Hosseinpour Alireza , Azami Pouria , Kamalpour Jahangir , Zamirian Mahmood
Published: March 2024

Background: Identifying reliable predictors for ventricular recovery at the outset is crucial for patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the role of baseline global longitudinal strain (GLS) in predicting myocardial recovery following an acute infarction. Methods: We enrolled 60 consecutive patients diagnosed with STEMI and admitted to Al-Zahra Hospital for PCI from March 2022 to March 2023. Echocardiography was performed on all patients within 48 hours after revascularization to measure baseline parameters, including left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and GLS. Follow-up echocardiography was conducted 6 months later to reassess LVEF. Results: At the 6-month follow-up, 38 (63.3%) patients showed a ≥ 5% improvement in LVEF, indicating ventricular recovery. The change in GLS was significantly different between the groups (recovered: - 4.72 ± 2.00, not recovered: - 2.41 ± 2.15, P < 0.001). A baseline GLS ≤ - 4.5 and > -14.8 was predictive of either failure to recover or successful recovery of LVEF with 100% negative and positive predictive values, respectively. Baseline GLS values > - 9.2 were predictive of LV recovery with 50% sensitivity and 83.3% specificity (P = 0.0002, AUC (95% confidence interval) = 0.697 (0.594, 0.799)). The type of revascularization was linked to better prediction outcomes, with patients undergoing primary and rescue PCIs more likely to recover during the follow-up period compared to those receiving deferred PCI after 24 hours (P = 0.032). Conclusions: While certain baseline GLS value thresholds may serve as predictors of LVEF recovery in patients with STEMI undergoing primary PCI, further prospective studies with larger cohorts are needed to establish more precise cut-off values.
Novel Polyimide-Based Conformal Bandpass FSS for X-band RADAR Communications
Authors:   Anna University, Chennai, Govindarajan Geethanjali , Purusothaman Preetha ,   Anna University, Chennai
Published: March 2024

A linearly polarized wide bandpass frequency selective surface (FSS) for RADAR communication application has been presented. The proposed FSS is constructed in a single layer with a size of 0.25 λ0. This FSS utilizes a rhombus slot comprised of a head slot and a meander line to provide a single-wideband resonance. The proposed FSS operates in the X-band communication frequency range from 7.98 to 12.1 GHz (4.12 GHz) and achieves a minimum insertion loss of 0.1 dB, respectively. The designed FSS is developed on a flexible substrate with a low profile of 0.05 mm. The FSS exhibits stable angular performance in the scope of incidence angle of 60º for both TE and TM modes. An equivalent circuit model is designed to depict the desired frequency response. Furthermore, a bending analysis has been carried out to verify the conformal nature of the proposed unit cell. The prototype is fabricated and the performances are validated with experimental results.
Using Information Technology for Comprehensive Analysis and Prediction in Forensic Evidence
Authors: Mihna Faris Kamil Hasan , Habeeb Mustafa Abdulfattah , Khaleel Yahya Layth , Ali Yasir Hussein , Al-saeedi Lobna Abdalhusen Easa
Published: March 2024

With the escalation of cybercriminal activities, the demand for forensic investigations into these crimeshas grown significantly. However, the concept of systematic pre-preparation for potential forensicexaminations during the software design phase, known as forensic readiness, has only recently gainedattention. Against the backdrop of surging urban crime rates, this study aims to conduct a rigorous andprecise analysis and forecast of crime rates in Los Angeles, employing advanced Artificial Intelligence(AI) technologies. This research amalgamates diverse datasets encompassing crime history, varioussocio-economic indicators, and geographical locations to attain a comprehensive understanding of howcrimes manifest within the city. Leveraging sophisticated AI algorithms, the study focuses on scrutinizingsubtle periodic patterns and uncovering relationships among the collected datasets. Through thiscomprehensive analysis, the research endeavors to pinpoint crime hotspots, detect fluctuations infrequency, and identify underlying causes of criminal activities. Furthermore, the research evaluates theefficacy of the AI model in generating productive insights and providing the most accurate predictionsof future criminal trends. These predictive insights are poised to revolutionize the strategies of lawenforcement agencies, enabling them to adopt proactive and targeted approaches. Emphasizing ethicalconsiderations, this research ensures the continued feasibility of AI use while safeguarding individuals'constitutional rights, including privacy. The anticipated outcomes of this research are anticipated tofurnish actionable intelligence for law enforcement, policymakers, and urban planners, aiding in theidentification of effective crime prevention strategies. By harnessing the potential of AI, this researchcontributes to the promotion of proactive strategies and data-driven models in crime analysis andprediction, offering a promising avenue for enhancing public security in Los Angeles and othermetropolitan areas.
SARF İLMİNİN TARİHÇESİ VE BAZI ARAP DİL İLİMLERİYLE ETKİLEŞİMİ
Authors: Asım Mohammad Shakib
Published: March 2024

Arap gramerinin iki temel dayanağını oluşturan sarf ve nahiv ile ilgili yapılan ilk ciddi çalışmalar, II/VIII. asırda başlamıştır. İlk başlarda Irak’ın Basra şehrinde başlayan Arap dili çalışmaları daha sonra adını bu şehirden alan dil mektebinde ve onun ardından kurulan Kufe ve Bağdat mekteplerinde yetişen dilcilerce devam ettirildi. Yakın münasebeti dolayısıyla başlangıçta sarf ilminin kapsamına giren konulara nahiv kitaplarının sonunda yer verilirken; III/IX. asrın sonlarından itibaren söz konusu konular nahivden ve diğer dil bilim dallarından ayrı olarak tasnif edilmeye başlanmış ve ondan sonra “ṣarf/et-taṣrīf” gramerin sadece kelime bilgisini kapsayan bölümünü ifade eden bir nitelik kazanmıştır. Arap dili çalışmaları IV/X. asırdan itibaren Endülüs ve Mısır dil mekteplerinde sürdürülmüştür. Bu okullarda yetişen dilciler, diğer dil bilim dallarında yaptıkları çalışmaların yanı sıra sarf alanında kaleme aldıkları müstakil eserlerle bu ilmin gelişmesine ve metodolojisini tamamlamasına katkıda bulunmuşlardır. Osmanlılar döneminde medreselerde diğer ilimlerin yanında ayrı bir önemi haiz olan sarf alanında birçok eser kaleme alınmış ve bu eserler yıllarca medreselerde okutulmuştur. Günümüzde de başta Türkiye olmak üzere Arap-İslam dünyasında ve Batı’da sarf ilmi üzerinde birçok modern çalışmanın yapıldığı görülmektedir. Bu çalışmamızda sarf ilminin tarihçesi, tekâmül süreci ve diğer Arap ilimleriyle münasebeti incelenmiştir. Ayrıca sarfın Arapça öğretiminde ve dinî-edebî metinlerin anlaşılmasındaki önemi üzerinde durulmuştur.
BIBLIOTECA REGELUI FERDINAND DE LA PALATUL COTROCENI
Authors:   Muzeul Național Cotroceni, DINU Ștefania
Published: March 2024

The Cotroceni Palace was the permanent residence of the princely and then royal family Ferdinand and Marie. From the beginning of construction, the library was furnished in the French Henry IInd style and paneled in elm wood. Over time, the interior aspect of the library has not changed radically, housing a rich collection of books, as can be seen from the inventories made within this royal residence in the years 1930, 1938 and 1948.
Prince and later King Ferdinand was anaccomplished book lover, passionate about botany, which he dealt with with the skill of a specialist, spending a lot of the free time he had at his disposal, in the library, to arrange his herbariumconstitutedas a result of his travels through the mountains, to Sinaia, on the Danube or after walks through the parks of the royal residences.
After the death of King Ferdinand, the library continued to be used by Queen Marie, and later, after her death (1938) and then after the forced abdication of King Mihai and the establishment of the communist regime, the Cotroceni Palace suffered great destruction and the alienation of the heritage, including books from the royal library.
The transformation of the Cotroceni Palace into the Palace of the Pioneers caused the interventions to change the interior appearance of the sumptuous royal halls, the library retaining its appearance from the royal period, but becoming a space for the political-ideological training of students and young people.
After the restoration of the palace and the establishment of the Cotroceni National Museum, the library became part of the permanent exhibition, a space of spirituality, which exudes an atmosphere of sobriety that can only be found in the offices of great researchers and lovers of science.
DOCTORUL MIHAI CIUCĂ: SAVANTUL ȘI COLECȚIONARUL DE ARTĂ. DONAȚIA CĂTRE CABINETUL DE STAMPE DE LA BIBLIOTECA ACADEMIEI ROMÂNE
Authors:   Biblioteca Academiei Române, BUNBĂNAC Luiza-Antonela
Published: March 2024

La présente étude valorise les dons par lesquels l'Académicien Professeur Docteur Mihai Ciucă a doté le patrimoine de la collection du Cabinet des estampes de la Bibliothèque de l'Académie Roumaine. Personnalité dans le domaine de la microbiologie et de la bactériologie, Mihai Ciucă a combiné sa vie scientifique avec sa passion pour l'art et la bibliophilie. Stimulé par la personnalité du professeur Ion Canatcuzino, dont il est devenu un fidèle collaborateur, le Dr. Mihai Ciucă a fait partie du groupe des cantacuzinisti, l'élite médicale de l'entre-deux-guerres, devenant un collectionneur connaisseur de gravures européennes. Sa collection comprenait des œuvres graphiques européennes et des estampes japonaises, ainsi que des livres illustrés par des gravures. L'étude tente de retracer le parcours de la collection, en présentant certaines des œuvres de la collection de l'érudit, réalisées par des artistes dont les noms sont particulièrement liés à des moments importants de l'histoire de l'art. Le geste du Dr Mihai Ciucă de faire don de l'ensemble de la collection au Cabinet de Stampe s'inscrit dans un geste typique et naturel concernant le destin des collections des élites médicales, à savoir faire don de la collection à l'État et la mettre à la disposition des chercheurs.
CEALALTĂ JUMĂTATE E EUROPEI. INTERVIU CU PROFESORUL FRANCESCO GUIDA
Authors:   Institutul Național pentru Studiul Totalitarismului, JIANU Octaviana
Published: March 2024

Francesco Guida è un noto storico italiano, specializzato nella storia dell'Europa centro-orientale. Il suo legame con la Romania risale al 1971, anno in cui, come borsista, egli trascorre tre mesi a Bucarest. Durante la sua formazione universitaria, il rinomato storico ha intrapreso diverse fasi di ricerca e ha beneficiato di borse di studio non solo in Romania, ma anche in paesi come Bulgaria, Jugoslavia, Ungheria, Grecia, Francia, Portogallo e Inghilterra. Successivamente, ha insegnato nelle università come La Sapienza (Roma), Ca' Foscari (Venezia) e Roma Tre (Roma). Nel periodo 2008-2018 è stato preside della Facoltà di Scienze Politiche dell'Università Roma Tre, e negli anni 2013-2020 ha presieduto la Conferenza Italiana di Scienze Politiche.
Ha pubblicato numerosi libri, come autore unico o in collaborazione. Alcuni suoi volumi sono stati tradotti in rumeno, russo, spagnolo e polacco: L’Italia e il risorgimento balcanico (1987) – libro per il quale ha ottenuto il premio "Howard Marraro" dell'American Society of Italian History; La Russia e l’Europa centro-orientale: 1815-1919 (2003); Storia dell'Europa nel XX secolo. Romania (2009); L'altra metà dell'Europa. Dalla Grande Guerra ai giorni nostri (2015). Ha publicato inoltre circa 200 studi.
Per i suoi eccezionali contributi scientifici nel campo della storia e della cultura rumena, ha ricevuto dal Presidente della Romania l'ordine „Meritul cultural” în grad de ofițer (2003) e il diploma per la promozione dei valori romeni e universali nelle relazioni internazionali (2012), rilasciato dal Ministero degli Affari Esteri di Romania. È stato proclamato Dottore honoris causa dell'Accademia Bulgara delle Scienze (2017) nonché dell'Università Babeș-Bolyai (2019). Francesco Guida è stato presidente o semplice membro di numerose società, centri o associazioni scientifico-culturali come l'Associazione Italiana dei Rumenisti, l'Associazione Italiana degli Slavisti, l'Associazione italiana Studi di storia dell’Europa centrale e orientale; il Centro romeno-italiano Studi Storici.
Digital Dynamics: Investigating the Impact of Social Media on Sexual Behavior
Authors:   Department of Public Administration, Kampala International University Uganda, Ashata Godwin Precious
Published: March 2024

Social media has revolutionized communication, transforming how people exchange information and knowledge, particularly among adolescents. Adolescence, a period marked by psychophysical development, emphasizes relationships and socialization. Today, the internet and social platforms offer accessible avenues for exploring human sexuality without traditional constraints. Adolescents use the internet to stay connected with friends and engage in various activities, including exploring sexual content and engaging in cybersex. Unfortunately, this has led to an alarming increase in risky sexual behavior among youths, with social media exposure playing a significant role. This paper sheds light on the negative implications of adolescents' social media use, particularly concerning risky sexual behavior. Keywords: Social Media, Adolescents, Sexual Behavior, Risky Behavior, Internet Impact
Factors Affecting Quality of Health Care Services in Government Facilities in Kakindo Health Centre IV in Kakumiro District
Authors:   Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry, Kampala International University Western Campus Uganda., Nathan Semambo
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to examine the factors that affect quality of health services in Kakindo Health Center IV in Kakumiro District. The study used a cross-sectional design using a quantitative approach on the population which was under study. Data was collected using questionnaires, processed in excel, and word using SSP software for correlation purposes. The study found a high significant relationship between health-related factors, health worker related factors and quality of health service delivery. Patient related factors had a low significance. The study concluded that the quality of health services depends on the level to which the management of the facility provides the employees with a conducive work environment. appropriate knowledge and skills, and positive attitude of health workers towards patients was emphasized. health workers were argued to carry out daily patient education in order to change their traditional beliefs. Grading the facility to a level of Hospital this would help to build more infrastructure for both patients and staffs, for security of both patients and staff, the facility needs tapped water so that staff can access clean water inwards, especially the paediatric ward, theatre, general ward, outpatient department, A R T Clinic Cold chain unit and a few staff quarters. A proper fence must be put constructed at the facility. Keywords: Health service, Health workers, Patients, Delivery, Staff.
Knowledge Attitude and Barriers to the Use of Family Planning Among Married Men and Women at Fort Portal Hospital-Kabarole-Uganda.
Authors:   Faculty of Clinical Medicine and Dentistry Kampala International University Western Campus Uganda., Ngene Masereka Benon
Published: March 2024

According to the Uganda Demographic and Health Survey, most women and men knew some family planning methods but only about 29%of married women were using contraceptives. 20% of women had an unmet need for family planning. We examined knowledge, attitudes and contraceptive practice as well as factors related to contraceptive use in Fort Portal region Uganda. Methods: Data were collected between Sept-Nov 2023 among 160 married couples using a multi-stage sampling design. Quantitative data was based on semi-structured questionnaires and was triangulated with qualitative data collected during focus group discussions. We compared proportions and performed logistic regression analysis. The concept of family planning was well-known in the studied population. Sex-stratified analysis showed pills and injectables were commonly known by both sexes, while long-term contraceptive methods were better known by women, and traditional methods as well as emergency contraception by men. Formal education was the most important factor associated with better knowledge about contraceptive methods (aOR = 2.07, p,0.001), in particular among women (aOR women = 2.77 vs. aOR men = 1.49; p,0.001). In general, only 1 out of 160 men ever used contraception, while 65% and 44% of females ever used and were currently using contraception respectively. The high knowledge of contraceptives did not match with the high contraceptive practice in the study area. The study demonstrated that mere physical access (proximity to clinics for family planning) and awareness of contraceptives are not sufficient to ensure that contraceptive needs are met. Thus, projects aiming at increasing contraceptive use should contemplate and establish better counselling about contraceptive side effects and method switches. Furthermore, in all family planning activities, both wives’ and husbands’ participation should be considered. Keywords: Family planning, Contraceptive use, Women, Men, Married couples.
Analysis of Sociodemographic and Psychosocial Risk Factors for Teenage Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study at The Teen Mom’s Clinic of Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center Philippines
Authors: Liwanto Michael Adriel , Kristina Vicente Martin  , Marriane Grace R. Remolacio
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Teenage pregnancy is a serious public health problem in the Philippines. This study aims to analyze sociodemographic and psychosocial risk factors associated with teenage pregnancy at the Teen Mom's Clinic of Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital and Medical Center in the Philippines.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 152 adolescents who consulted at the clinic. Data were collected through a questionnaire that asked about sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics. Univariate and bivariate statistical analyzes were used to identify risk factors associated with teenage pregnancy.

Results: The prevalence of teenage pregnancy among consultation subjects at the clinic was 89%. Bivariate analysis showed that age, place of residence, education level, household income, source of income, parental relationship, sexual relationship, relationship status, source of information about sex, sexual experience, number of sexual partners, contraceptive use, STI information, sexual harassment, physical abuse, and verbal abuse were not significantly associated with teenage pregnancy.

Conclusion: Sociodemographic and psychosocial risk factors do not play a significant role in teenage pregnancy in the Philippines.
Knoppix saves the day...
Authors: Willighagen Egon
Published: March 2024

After the three obligatory days of christmas holidays (fun, especially with two children, but very exhausting), it is time to get back to business again. I’m still at my father-in-laws place with only XP installed, so booted the Knoppix 4.0.2 DVD I burned last friday. Eclipse is not working, but being able to use Kmail to read my email again is just what you need as in internet-junkie.
Going to the German Chemoinformatics Conference
Authors: Willighagen Egon
Published: March 2024

This sunday starts the first German Chemoinformatics Conference

in Goslar. It’s an interesting programme

, with presentations on the InChI, PubChem, 25 years of chemoinformatics, the chemical semantic web, and much more. Among these presentations is mine, on comparing crystal structures (PDF

) and deducing cell parameters. But I’m having a poster on QSAR too.
Kubuntu, XRandR and TV-OUT
Authors: Willighagen Egon
Published: March 2024

One of the things I had not fully figured out up to today, was how to configure my Kubuntu system to easily view DVDs on our TV, using my NVIDIA’s TV-OUT. I’ve seen xorg.conf files that define a X11 server for the monitor and a second for the TV, and files that use TwinView. Now, I did not really like the way first option worked, so tried the second.
Chem-bla-ics
Authors: Willighagen Egon
Published: March 2024

This new blog will deal with chemblaics in the broader sense, and will not be restricted to research in this field in which I am involved personally. Chemblaics (pronounced chem-bla-ics) is the science that uses computers to address and possibly solve problems in the area of chemistry, biochemistry and related fields. The general denomiter seems to be molecules, but I might be wrong there.
The impact of conformity, effort and performance expectancies on SMEs information technology adoption in Nigeria
Authors: Ojeme Mark , Odiase Martins
Published: March 2024

This paper investigates the drivers of SMEs’ adoption (Small and Medium-sized Enterprises’ adoption) of information technology (IT) in Nigeria, underpinned by the performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and conformity impact on IT adoption. In addition, the study examined the impact of an organizational existence on IT adoption. Confirmatory factor analysis was applied to establish the model's goodness-of-fit, while Structural Equation Modelling was employed to test the proposed model’s hypotheses. Further, multiple regression analysis was used to test the organization's years of existence effect on IT adoption. The overall arching finding indicates the predominant role of performance expectancy in explaining organization adoption of IT systems. Furthermore, effort expectancy (ease of IT usage) showed mixed results. While it was a predictive construct in the overall study model, it proved redundant under five years of organization existence but was predictive of organizational existence over five years. The conformity construct (maintenance of status quo) was insignificant in the study. The research adds value to the information technology literature by establishing the factors that drive 20 SMEs IT adoption in Nigeria, especially where organization age is concerned. The unit of analysis was at the organization level; there is wisdom in considering employees’ demographics, 22 such as employee’s education, IT experience, or organizational trade in future studies.
Treatment Patterns and Survival Outcomes in Patients With Breast Cancer on Medicaid, Pre- and Post-Expansion
Authors: Koroukian Siran M. , Dong Weichuan , Albert Jeffrey M. , Kim Uriel , Eom Kirsten , Rose Johnie , Owusu Cynthia , Zanotti Kristine M. , Cooper Gregory , Tsui Jennifer
Published: March 2024

Background: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of Medicaid expansion on breast cancer treatment and survival among Medicaid-insured women in Ohio, accounting for the timing of enrollment in Medicaid relative to their cancer diagnosis and post-expansion heterogeneous Medicaid eligibility criteria, thus addressing important limitations in previous studies. Methods: Using 2011–2017 Ohio Cancer Incidence Surveillance System data linked with Medicaid claims data, we identified women aged 18 to 64 years diagnosed with local-stage or regional-stage breast cancer (n=876 and n=1,957 pre-expansion and post-expansion, respectively). We accounted for women’s timing of enrollment in Medicaid relative to their cancer diagnosis, and flagged women post-expansion as Affordable Care Act (ACA) versus non-ACA, based on their income eligibility threshold. Study outcomes included standard treatment based on cancer stage and receipt of lumpectomy, mastectomy, chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal treatment, and/or treatment for HER2-positive tumors; time to treatment initiation (TTI); and overall survival. We conducted multivariable robust Poisson and Cox proportional hazards regression analysis to evaluate the independent associations between Medicaid expansion and our outcomes of interest, adjusting for patient-level and area-level characteristics. Results: Receipt of standard treatment increased from 52.6% pre-expansion to 61.0% post-expansion (63.0% and 59.9% post-expansion in the ACA and non-ACA groups, respectively). Adjusting for potential confounders, including timing of enrollment in Medicaid, being diagnosed in the post-expansion period was associated with a higher probability of receiving standard treatment (adjusted risk ratio, 1.14 [95% CI, 1.06–1.22]) and shorter TTI (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.14 [95% CI, 1.04–1.24]), but not with survival benefits (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.00 [0.80–1.26]). Conclusions: Medicaid expansion in Ohio was associated with improvements in receipt of standard treatment of breast cancer and shorter TTI but not with improved survival outcomes. Future studies should elucidate the mechanisms at play.