bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preferences for pre-exposure prophylaxis delivery among HIV-negative pregnant and breastfeeding women in Zambia: evidence from a discrete choice experiment
Authors: Hamoonga Twaambo Euphemia , Mutale Wilbroad , Igumbor Jude , Bosomprah Samuel , Arije Olujide , Chi Benjamin H.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Pregnant and breastfeeding women at substantial risk for HIV infection in sub-Saharan Africa can benefit from biomedical interventions such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We estimated the benefit that pregnant and breastfeeding women may derive from PrEP service delivery in order to guide PrEP roll-out in the target population in Zambia.

Methods

Between September and December 2021, we conducted a discrete choice experiment (DCE) among a convenient sample of 389 pregnant and breastfeeding women not living with HIV in Lusaka, Zambia. Women aged 18 years or older, with a documented negative HIV result in their antenatal card responded to a structured questionnaire containing 12 choice sets on service delivery attributes of PrEP: waiting time at the facility, travel time to the facility dispensing PrEP, location for PrEP pick-up, health care provider attitude and PrEP supply at each refill. Mixed logit regression analysis was used to determine the participant's willingness to trade off one attribute of PrEP for the other at a 5% significance level. Willingness to wait (WTW) was used to determine the relative utility derived from each attribute against waiting time.

Results

Waiting time at the facility, travel time to the facility, health care provider attitude and amount of PrEP supply at each refill were important attributes of PrEP service delivery (all p < 0.01). Participants preferred less waiting time at the facility (β = −0.27, p < 0.01). Women demonstrated a strong preference for a 3-months’ supply of PrEP (β = 1.69, p < 0.01). They were willing to wait for 5 h at the facility, walk for more than an hour to a facility dispensing PrEP, encounter a health care provider with a negative attitude in order to receive PrEP enough for 3 months.

Conclusion

Patient-centered approaches can help to inform the design and implementation of PrEP services among pregnant and breastfeeding women. In this study, we found that a reduction in clinic visits—including through multi-month dispensing of PrEP—could improve uptake of services in antenatal and postnatal settings.
Kinetic Alfvén wave cascade in sub-ion range plasma turbulence
Authors: Sharma Johan , Makwana Kirit D.
Published: October 2024

Kinetic Alfvén waves (KAWs) are simulated with a 3D particle-in-cell (PIC) code by using the eigenvector relations of density, velocity, electric, and magnetic field fluctuations derived from a two-fluid KAW model. Similar simulations are also performed with a whistler waves setup. The 2D two-fluid eigenvector relations are converted into 3D by using rotation of the reference frame. The initial condition for the simulations is a superposition of several waves at scales slightly larger than the ion skin depth. The nonlinear interactions produce a transfer of energy to smaller scales. The magnetic field perturbation ratios, velocity perturbation, and density perturbation ratios are calculated from the simulation at higher wavenumbers and compared with the analytically expected ratios for KAWs and whistler waves. We find that in both types of simulations, initialized either with an ensemble of KAWs or with whistlers, the observed polarization relations at later times match better with the KAW relations compared to whistlers. This indicates a preference for excitation of KAW fluctuations at smaller scales. The power spectrum in the perpendicular direction is calculated, and it shows similar indices as measured in the solar wind power spectrum in the transition (sub-ion) region. The power law extends to smaller scales when a higher ion-to-electron mass ratio is taken. The 2D magnetic power spectrum in magnetic field parallel and perpendicular directions shows typical anisotropy where the power spreads more in the perpendicular direction than in the parallel direction. This study shows that KAWs can explain features of the sub-ion range plasma turbulence in the solar wind.
How do rest-pause and sarcoplasma stimulating training models affect metabolic and psychoaffective responses in bodybuilding athletes compared to traditional training?
Authors: Almeida Gustavo P. L. , João Gustavo A. , Charro Mário A. , de Jesus Santana Wilian , da Silva Carlos Eduardo Rosa , Bocalini Danilo S. , Caperuto Érico C. , Figueira Aylton J.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Strength training (ST) is a strategy to enhance quality of life through increased strength, muscle hypertrophy, and functional capacity. Training systems are associated with manipulation of volume and intensity, generating different stimuli, such as Rest-Pause (RP) and Sarcoplasmic Stimulating Training (SST). These systems induce greater mechanical and physiological stress, leading to increased strength and muscle hypertrophy. However, the metabolic and psycho-affective effects of advanced systems in experienced practitioners remain inconclusive. The purpose of the study is to analyze the acute effects of RP, SST, and Traditional (TMS) systems on metabolic and psycho-affective responses in adult men.

Methods

This experimental crossover study assessed 15 subjects (30.38 ± 2.06 years; 88.40 ± 6.50 kg; 1.74 ± 0.07 cm) experienced in ST, evaluated under TMS, RP, and SST during flat bench press and leg press 45° exercises. Body composition, muscular strength via 1-RM testing, lactate concentration (LAC), and psycho-affective measures (Rating of Perceived Exertion-RPE; Visual Analog Scale-VAS; Feeling Scale-FS) were determined. Statistical analysis was performed using the Minitab software, with p ≤ 0.05, IC-95%).

Results

The finals results showed SST exhibited a 38.10% lower LAC concentration post-training session compared to TMS, while RP showed 37.20% lower LAC concentration than TMS post-session. Average RPE values for RP and SST were higher (8.50 ± 1.10 and 8.60 ± 0.90, respectively) than TMS (6.00 ± 1.10). VAS displayed higher average values for RP and SST (8.00 ± 2.00 and 8.00 ± 1.00, respectively) compared to TMS (5.00 ± 1.00), with affective ratings indicating positive values for TMS and values between 0 and −5 for RP (40%) and SST (60%) post-training sessions, suggesting that RP and SST induced less affective response than TMS.

Discussion

The results lead to the conclusion that manipulation of training volume and intensity led to higher RPE and pain (VAS). The data suggest that inappropriate prescription of these systems could lead to greater displeasure, leading us to hypothesize that a higher likelihood of discontinuation from strength training programs would occur, suggesting that greater repetition volumes (RP and SST) should be targeted at individuals with a higher training level.
Advancing carbon sequestration and nutrient management in the South African dairy industry for sustainable growth
Authors: Reinecke Riana , Blignaut James N. , Meissner Heinz H. , Swanepoel Pieter A.
Published: October 2024

The dairy industry in South Africa is currently grappling with significant challenges, including escalating costs and diminishing profit margins. However, these difficulties also create a pivotal opportunity for the sector to embrace sustainable practices that not only enhance environmental stewardship but also encourage economic resilience. A crucial step in this transition is to dispel prevalent misconceptions about the industry’s environmental footprint and to highlight its positive contributions to sustainable agricultural practices. Farmers are encouraged to adopt innovative strategies that enhance soil health and reduce their ecological impact. This review focuses on essential factors influencing nutrient management and the processes that contribute to soil carbon enhancement. Effective management is crucial for the sustainability of pasture-based dairy systems, as herbage biomass significantly influences nutrient cycling and soil organic matter accumulation. For instance, well-managed pastures with high biomass can efficiently recycle nutrients from manure, enhancing plant growth. This process contributes to soil organic carbon buildup, which aids in carbon sequestration. In contrast, poor nutrient management can lead to nutrient imbalances and lower herbage production, reducing carbon storage potential. Moreover, the movement of nutrients below the surface is a critical pathway for enhancing soil health and promoting ecological balance. By implementing sustainable practices and refining nutrient stewardship strategies, pasture-based dairy farmers can significantly advance their sustainability goals. This includes recognizing the broader implications of soil health on farm productivity and environmental resilience, as well as the potential for improved biodiversity.
Strip cropping increases yield and revenue: multi-year analysis of an organic system in the Netherlands
Authors: Juventia Stella D. , van Apeldoorn Dirk F.
Published: October 2024

Intercropping is proposed as a promising strategy to meet future food demand while reducing agriculture’s environmental impact by re-diversifying agricultural fields. Strip cropping, a form of intercropping, has a potential to simultaneously deliver multiple ecosystem services including productivity, while facilitating management as strip width can be adjusted to the working width of available machines. While the yield performance of strip cropping systems is influenced by the interaction between neighboring crops, to date, empirical studies on the performance of various crop combinations in strip cropping systems are limited. Here we used three-year data (2020–2022) from a 64-ha organic strip cropping system in the Netherlands to (1) evaluate the effects of crop neighbors and strip cropping on yield and (2) explore if optimizing the allocation of crop neighbors in alternative strip cropping configurations can improve yield and revenue performances. We analyzed the edge effect and strip cropping effect on yield of six crops grown in strips, each neighboring a total of five crops. The yield data was then used to evaluate the performance of the current and alternative strip configurations in terms of LER and relative revenue. Results showed that except for the positive effect observed on potato when neighboring celeriac or broccoli, edge effects lacked statistical significance. Strip cropping effect varied per crop: positive for faba bean and parsnip, neutral for celeriac and potato, and negative for oat and onion. Analysis across crops showed an overall significant positive strip cropping effect on yield. These findings highlighted the value of analysis at the cropping system level in developing designs aimed at unlocking the potential of strip cropping. The positive but variable strip cropping effects observed in the current experimental design and the two alternative configurations suggests prioritizing an overall increased crop diversity over optimizing their spatial arrangement. While we demonstrated increased productivity with strip cropping, further research is needed to expand the database on optimal crop combinations, extending the evaluation beyond yield and revenue performances to facilitate broader adoption of strip cropping in the Netherlands and Western Europe.
Percutaneous hollow nail internal fixation treatment for fractures of the pubic symphysis and its adjacent areas
Authors: Ping Zhang
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To explore the percutaneous minimally invasive treatment of pubic symphysis and its adjacent fractures.

Method

Since May 2021, 13 cases of fractures involving the pubic symphysis and its adjacent parts were treated with x-ray fluoroscopic localization and percutaneous cannulated screw fixation across the symphysis pubis, the guide pin pierced the symphysis pubis and the fracture end and stopped at the inner edge of the acetabulum. Visual analogue scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the effect of the operation, and the patients were followed up.

Result

The screw insertion operation time was 25–40 min, with an average of 31.45 min; The number of perspectives is 20–40, with an average of 28.75. The average intraoperative blood loss was 10 ml, and there were no puncture complications such as nerve or vascular damage. The initial stability of the fractured end of the patient after surgery was good. The VAS score decreased from preoperative 8–10 points to postoperative 1–2 points (average of 1.5 points). The follow-up time was 3–25 months, with an average of 8.5 months. At the last follow-up, the excellent and good rate of pelvic function according to Majeed pelvic function scoring system was 100%. One patient had screws removed 1.5 years after surgery, while the remaining twelve patients did not have screws removed. All patients did not experience any discomfort symptoms caused by pubic symphysis fixation.

Conclusion

Percutaneous hollow nail internal fixation is an effective method for treating fractures of the pubic symphysis and its adjacent parts.
Recombinant MS087-based indirect ELISA for the diagnosis of Mycoplasma synoviae
Authors: Zhang Yang , Wu Yan , He Jiawei , Lai Jiacui , Ding Honglei
Published: October 2024

Accurate detection is a prerequisite for effective prevention and control of Mycoplasma synoviae infection. ELISA is the most popular method for the clinical detection of M. synoviae because of its convenience, low cost, and high detection rate. However, the cross-reactivity of commercially available ELISA kits with other avian pathogen-positive sera needs to be addressed. The aim of this study was to establish an ELISA method with high specificity for the detection of anti-M. synoviae antibodies in chicken serum to evaluate the M. synoviae infection status on poultry farms. The recombinant MS087 (rMS087) protein was expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) and purified by Ni2+ affinity chromatography. An antibody against rMS087 was generated by immunizing BALB/c mice. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that MS087 was conserved among M. synoviae strains. Western blotting and indirect immunofluorescence results indicated that MS087 was not only localized in the cytoplasm and on the membrane but also secreted by the organism. For the established ELISA method based on rMS087, the optimal antigen concentration, blocking buffer, blocking duration, serum dilution, serum incubation duration, secondary antibody dilution, secondary antibody incubation duration and colorimetric reaction duration were 2 μg/mL, 1% BSA, 3 h, 1:500, 1.5 h, 1:20,000, 2 h and 5 min, respectively. Validation of the rMS087-based ELISA revealed a cut-off value of 0.5. The coefficients of variation of both the intra-batch and inter-batch methods were less than 9%. The assay was able to differentiate positive serum against M. synoviae from antisera against nine other avian pathogens and was able to recognize M. synoviae-positive sera at a dilution of 1:1,000. Compared with the commercial ELISA method, the rMS087-based ELISA has the potential to recognize more positive sera against M. synoviae. Collectively, the rMS087-based ELISA is a reproducible, specific, and sensitive serological method for detecting antibodies against M. synoviae in chicken serum and has robust potential for large-scale serological epidemiology of M. synoviae infection on poultry farms.
Zmiana konstytucyjnej nazwy państwa macedońskiego i jej konsekwencje dla Macedończyków
Authors: Sokołowski Marcin
Published: October 2024

The aim of this article is to show the complex situation of the Macedonian state and the Macedonians related to the change of the constitutional name of the country caused by Greek expectations and pressure. The article describes the consequences of the change of the constitutional name of the Republic of Macedonia. It goes on to present the analysis of the agreement between governments of the Republic of Macedonia and the Republic of Greece from 2018 year. The aim is to answer the research questions: How the agreement between Macedonian and Greek authorities influenced the situation of the Macedonians? Did the agreement have an impact on the crucial elements of the Macedonian national identity?
The Visegrad Group Countries Towards the War in Ukraine in 2022
Authors: Czyż Anna
Published: October 2024

Th e article aims to present the position of the Visegrad Group countries towards the war in Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022 with the attack of the Russian Federation on this country. On the one hand, the aim is to show the motivation and actions of the authorities of the four Visegrad Group countries towards Russian aggression against Ukraine, as well as the forms and types of assistance provided to Ukraine by each country separately. On the other hand, the aim is to answer the question: how did Hungary’s different position affect cooperation within the Visegrad Group? What are the reasons for Hungary’s different approach to the war in Ukraine and Russia’s policy? It can be observed that the Czech Republic, Poland, and Slovakia presented a pro-Ukrainian position in their actions towards the war in Ukraine, while Hungary, unlike the other Visegrad countries, presented a pro-Russian position, which caused a crisis in cooperation within the Visegrad Group. Slovakia’s attitude changed to a more pro-Russian one after the Smer party, headed by Robert Fico, came to power at the end of 2023. Now we can observe the division of the Visegrad Group into two camps: Polish-Czech and Slovak-Hungarian.
The Role of the Administrative Action Types in the Context of Exercising the Right to a Court
Authors: Avagyan Gohar
Published: October 2024

The article tries to bring to the light the specifics of exercising the right to apply to the court within the frameworks of the action types in administrative proceedings in general, deeply analyzing Armenian practice within the framework of international best practice. Defining the types of action in administrative proceedings as a procedural mode of case investigation is important for the proper investigation of the claim, but it cannot predetermine whether the claim is subject to examination in the court or not. In the light of the above, the subject of this study is the essence of the administrative action, the purpose of defining the action types, their influence on the investigation of the case, both in practice and in the theoretical literature, within the framework of the principle of finding out the factual circumstances of the case ex officio specific to administrative proceedings, the powers of the court when filing an inappropriate type of action and its consequences on the investigation of the case. The administrative procedural process starts upon submitting an administrative action, but the nature of the administrative action is manifested with some features, due to the legal mechanisms of exercising the right to apply to the administrative court and various judicial-scientific interpretations.
Prezydent w systemie organów państwa w Republice Chorwacji – od systemu semiprezydenckiego do parlamentaryzmu
Authors: Podolak Małgorzata
Published: October 2024

The Republic of Croatia has undergone many transformations in the last twenty years, becoming a democratic state. The functioning of the independent Republic of Croatia can be divided into two periods. The first is the stage of formation and consolidation of statehood, the second occurred after the death of F. Tudjman when the process of democratization and construction of a social market economy took place and the Constitution was amended with a view to replacing the semi-presidential system with a parliamentary-cabinet system. The subject of the analysis is the institution of the president in the system of state organs of the Republic of Croatia, with particular emphasis on his powers and functions in relation to the various organs of government.
Pokojowa rewolucja w zawłaszczonej demokracji. Kryzys polityczny w Bułgarii w latach 2021–2023
Authors: Domaradzki Spasimir
Published: October 2024

The political crisis in Bulgaria in the period 2021–2023 constitutes a very interesting political phenomenon, due to the fact that the main protesters demand was the introduction of reforms aiming to regain the captured state. The resistence of the status quo parties led to a political clinch, carousel of five parliamentary elections within two years, four interim governments and a temporary reinforcement of president’s power. This paper aims to provide a chronological account of the political developments during the crisis through the prism of the interaction between the reformers camp and the political elites associated with the state capture. An analysis of the chronology of events and the elections data provide food for thought on the limited ability to introduce changes through elections in a captured state, as well as to identify some of the features of the “status quo” political survival strategy.
Cushing’s Myopathy in Dogs: Prevalence, Clinical Abnormalities, and Response to Treatment
Authors: Hovious Kate , Fowler Kayla , Beasly Michaela , Pancotto Theresa E.
Published: October 2024

A distinct myotonia is a muscle disorder that may occur secondary to excess corticosteroids (hyperadrenocorticism, HAC, or Cushing’s disease) and is associated with electrodiagnostic abnormalities on electromyography (EMG). Clinically these disorders cause muscle stiffness, weakness, atrophy, and/or contractures, which can severely limit the quality of life of those affected. To date, there are very few published data regarding the onset, development, and treatment of hyperadrenocorticism-associated myotonia/pseudomyotonia. This is a multi-institutional retrospective study describing the clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment of HAC-associated myotonia/pseudomyotonia. We found that this disorder was and continues to be rare. It most commonly occurs in adult dogs with chronic steroid exposure secondary to pituitary-dependent HAC. No cases of adrenal dependent HAC were identified in this population. In addition to muscle stiffness, dermatologic disease and liver enzyme abnormalities were common. A wide variety of therapeutic strategies, including polypharmacy and physical rehabilitation, were implemented, with little success. Analgesics were the most frequently administered type of medication.
Development of Low-Stress Double-Pass Filter Device for Methane and Ethane Flammable Gas Detection System
Authors: Fu Xiuhua , Fu Guangyuan , Dong Suotao , Wang Ben , Lin Zhaowen , Pan Yonggang
Published: October 2024

To meet the needs of industrial and environmental monitoring of methane and ethane flammable gases, a low-stress filter device for detecting methane and ethane simultaneously is developed based on the absorption spectra of methane and ethane and the thin-film design theory. In order to improve the sensitivity of the detection system and reduce the influence of environmental noise, the information of methane and ethane gas is extracted simultaneously by using a filter with double bandpass and wide cut-off in the middle-infrared and far-infrared bands. The transmittance of the filter is 91.3%, 93.1%, and 93.02% at the wavelengths of 3.31 μm, 6.71 μm, and 7.67 μm, respectively. The cut-off depth in the cut-off interval is above OD3, which meets the system’s requirements.
A Fast and Cost-Effective Electronic Nose Model for Methanol Detection Using Ensemble Learning
Authors: Tozlu Bilge Han
Published: October 2024

Methanol, commonly used to cut costs in the production of counterfeit alcohol, is extremely harmful to human health, potentially leading to severe outcomes, including death. In this study, an electronic nose system was designed using 11 inexpensive gas sensors to detect the proportion of methanol in an alcohol mixture. A total of 168 odor samples were taken and analyzed from eight types of ethanol–methanol mixtures prepared at different concentrations. Only 4 features out of 264 were selected using the feature selection method based on feature importance. These four features were extracted from the data of MQ-3, MQ-4, and MQ-137 sensors, and the classification process was carried out using the data of these sensors. A Voting Classifier, an ensemble model, was used with Linear Discriminant Analysis, Support Vector Machines, and Extra Trees algorithms. The Voting Classifier achieved 85.88% classification accuracy before and 81.85% after feature selection. With its cost effectiveness, fast processing time, and practicality, the recommended system shows great potential for detecting methanol, which threatens human health in counterfeit drink production.
Bone-Targeting Radionuclides in the Treatment of Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: A Review on Radium-223 Chloride (Alpharadin) in Combination with Other Therapies
Authors: Alshehri Ali H. D.
Published: October 2024

Recent advances have broadened the range of therapeutic options for mCRPC, with several new treatments, including novel hormonal therapies (enzalutamide, abiraterone), chemotherapeutic agents (docetaxel, cabazitaxel), immunotherapies (sipuleucel-T), and bone targeting radiopharmaceuticals (radium-223) showing improved clinical outcomes and receiving U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval. These new treatments provide new avenues for improving patient survival and quality of life. Radium-223, a targeted alpha-emitter, specifically targets bone metastases, offering palliative benefits and a potential increase in life expectancy. The integration of radium-223 with other treatments shows promise for managing mCRPC. However, the optimal sequencing and combination of radium-223 with other therapies are still being explored, with various clinical trials investigating new therapeutic approaches. The integration of these therapies, especially to provide more effective, personalized treatment strategies, requires further investigation. A thorough literature review was conducted on current treatments for mCRPC, including chemotherapeutic agents, oral hormonal therapies targeting the androgen receptor axis, immunotherapies, and radium-223. Ongoing clinical trials investigating radium-233 in the context of other therapies for the treatment of mCRPC patients were also reviewed. Further studies should focus on determining the optimal sequencing and dosing and identifying biomarkers that predict treatment response to enhance outcomes of mCRPC patients. This review underlines the rational strategies of combining radium-223 with other therapies, investigating their impact on bone in terms of delaying skeletal-related events, and managing bone disease progression in mCRPC patients.
Evaluation of Smell Function in Patients with Childhood Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes at a Pediatric Neurology Clinic—A Case–Control Study
Authors: Coşkun Orhan , Karacabey Burçin Nazlı , Ünal Afra , Paksoy Samet , Durak Hale Nur
Published: October 2024

Objective: Childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (CECTS) is associated with cognitive, behavioral, and language difficulties. These epileptic discharges predominantly occur in the temporal lobe, which is known to be involved in olfactory functions. This study aims to assess olfactory dysfunction in patients with CECTS. Methods: This study included patients diagnosed with CECTS who were attending follow-ups at the Department of Child Neurology between January 2022 and July 2023. Olfactory function was evaluated using the Sniffin’ Sticks (Burghart GmbH, Wedel, Germany) 12-point screening test, which was administered to 44 patients and 35 controls. The smell test and the final control EEGs were performed simultaneously. Results: A total of 44 patients and 35 control subjects were enrolled in this study. The smell scores were significantly lower in the patient group compared to the control group (p = 0.029). The patient group had a very high prevalence of anosmia compared to the control group. The normosmia rate in the control group was significantly higher. No significant difference was observed in the smell scores based on EEG findings or antiepileptic drug type. Conclusions: Olfactory dysfunction was identified in patients with CECTS compared to healthy controls, yielding results consistent with findings for other types of epilepsy. Olfactory dysfunction was detected in a greater frequency among the patients diagnosed with CECTS than among the healthy control group, and similar results were obtained with other types of epilepsy. It was deduced that these patients may experience problems with smell sensitivity throughout their lives. The most important result of this study is that this condition should be taken into account in regard to patients’ well-being and lives.
Simulation of PSDF (Photovoltaic, Storage, Direct Current and Flexibility) Energy System for Rural Buildings
Authors: Li Xianfeng , Miao Wenjie , Xu Chuanzi , Li Yubao , Liu Zhongyan , Sha Shuai
Published: October 2024

The PSDF (photovoltaic, storage, direct current, and flexibility) energy system represents an innovative approach aimed at achieving carbon neutrality. This study focused on rural buildings and utilized Modelica to develop a dynamic simulation model of the PSDF system. The research introduced a framework for direct current distribution microgrid systems with flexible regulatory mechanisms, employing a virtual inertia control strategy to provide stable adjustments for flexible operations and support integration with local grids. Case simulation results indicated that the system equipped with a water tank saved 3.15 kWh compared to the system without a water tank, resulting in an energy savings rate of 22.14%. Compared to traditional photovoltaic systems, the PSDF system significantly enhanced energy management flexibility and system reliability through the integration of thermal storage and battery management. This research made significant contributions to the fields of renewable energy and building energy systems by offering a scalable and practical solution suitable for rural contexts.
Modes of Mindfulness in Post-Catholic Ireland
Authors: Carroll Thomas
Published: October 2024

The Republic of Ireland has undergone a seismic religious and social transformation in recent decades. Through the processes of secularization and detraditionalization, as well as several major scandals within the Irish Catholic Church, irreligiosity has become an increasing reality in terms of the hitherto overwhelmingly Catholic population. At a time of spiritual climate change in this post-Catholic Ireland, the contemporary phenomenon of mindfulness has exploded in popularity across various elements of society. Against this backdrop, three distinctive modes or strands of mindfulness are proposed as being operative in the Irish context, each catering to the needs of different practitioners. The proposed modes include psychological and clinical mindfulness and commodified and post-secular spirituality. Within the lacuna created by the receding of Catholic belief and practice, the emergence of mindfulness in the Irish context is explored, mapping how this originally Buddhist practice has gained such a foothold in contemporary spiritual discourse.
Camping with Jesus: Theologically Reflecting on Evangelical Christian Festivals
Authors: Collins Helen
Published: October 2024

Attending a Christian summer camp or festival is a regular feature of many evangelical church calendars within the UK. This article uses a practical theology approach to explore definitions and distinctives of evangelical camping, both within the literature on evangelical camping and through examining the websites and publicity materials of three specific camps—New Wine, Big Church Festival and Newday Generation. The analysis highlights the significance placed upon the location, size, rhythms and purposes of gathering in the festivals’ self-understandings. This leads into a theological reflection upon the biblical festival of Sukkot to examine the ways in which God’s work might be disclosed through the practice of evangelical camping. Three pairs of themes emerge from the comparison: located and temporal, secular and religious, and rejoicing and re-examining. These themes are drawn upon to propose ways in which God might be at work in the social world disrupting a sense of permanence, blurring the boundaries between faith and the world, and calling people into radical solidarity with creation and with the marginalized. Finally, suggested actions are proposed as to how evangelical festivals may better respond to God’s disclosure.
The Impact of Free Trade Zones on Corporate Sustainability Performance: An Empirical Examination from the Dual Perspectives of Financial and Environmental Performance
Authors: Wang Yu , Kong Qingfeng
Published: October 2024

As a “testing ground” for a new round of institutional innovation, China’s pilot free trade zones (FTZs) have created favorable development conditions for listed companies and significantly influenced their sustainability performance. Utilizing data from Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed companies from 2010 to 2022, this study uses the establishment of FTZs as a “quasi-natural experiment” and measures corporate sustainability performance by combining financial and environmental performance. A PSM-DID model is constructed to explore the impact of FTZ construction on corporate sustainability performance. The findings are as follows: (1) The establishment of FTZs significantly enhances both the financial and environmental performance of companies. (2) FTZs promote corporate sustainability performance by reducing transaction costs and improving corporate innovation levels. (3) The establishment of FTZs has a significantly positive impact on the sustainability performance of companies in highly competitive industries, non-labor-intensive industries, high-tech enterprises, and large-scale companies. This study reveals the impact and transmission mechanisms of FTZs on corporate sustainability performance, providing new empirical evidence for the future direction of corporate sustainable development in China.
Estimation of Lithium-Ion Battery SOC Based on IFFRLS-IMMUKF
Authors: Zhao Xianguang , Wang Tao , Li Li , Cheng Yanqing
Published: October 2024

The state of charge (SOC) is a characteristic parameter that indicates the remaining capacity of electric vehicle batteries. It plays a significant role in determining driving range, ensuring operational safety, and extending the service life of battery energy storage systems. Accurate SOC estimation can ensure the safety and reliability of vehicles. To tackle the challenge of precise SOC estimation in complex environments, this study introduces an improved forgetting factor recursive least squares (IFFRLS) method, which integrates the Golden Jackal optimization (GJO) algorithm with the traditional FFRLS method. This integration is grounded in the formulation of a lithium battery state equation derived from a second-order RC equivalent circuit model. Additionally, the research utilizes the interactive multiple model unscented Kalman filter (IMMUKF) algorithm for SOC estimation, with experimental validation conducted under various conditions, including hybrid pulse power characterization (HPPC), urban dynamometer driving schedule (UDDS), and real underwater scenarios. The experimental results demonstrate that the SOC estimation method of lithium batteries based on IFFRLS-IMMUKF exhibits high accuracy and a favorable temperature applicability range.
EFEKTIVITAS MAGGOT BLACK SOLDIER FLY SEBAGAI PENGURAI SAMPAH SAYUR-SAYURAN, SAMPAH BUAH-BUAHAN, DAN SISA MAKANAN TAHUN 2023
Authors: Lindawati Lindawati , Gameli Cahyani Rahmi , Wijayantono Wijayantono , Marza R. Firwandri , Afridon Afridon
Published: October 2024

Organic waste is a type of waste that can rot and decompose again. Most organic waste is thrown into landfills, resulting in piles of rubbish. One way that can be done to reduce damage to the environment and the risk of causing disease is to reuse organic waste by using decomposer animals, namely the Black Soldier Fly or in Latin Hermetia illucens. This research aimed to determine the effectiveness of the Maggot Black Soldier Fly in decomposing vegetable waste, fruit waste and food waste. This research was an experiment carried out for 12 days with 3000 grams of organic waste each. The waste variation uses 3 repetitions using 150 grams of maggot and regular checks are carried out on temperature, pH and humidity. Based on the results of maggot research, maggots' decomposition of vegetable waste increased by 267%. From the results of the ANOVA test, it was found that there was no significant difference in the weight of maggots as decomposers of vegetable waste, fruit waste and food waste. The reduction in waste weight after being broken down by food waste maggots was more effective with a percentage of 72%. In the ANOVA test results it was found that there was a significant difference between vegetable waste and food waste with a Mean Difference (I-J) value of 383,333. It is better for maggots to use food waste when decomposing waste because it has a soft texture, stable pH and humidity, and produces good growth for maggots.
COMPARISON OF THE EFFECTIVENESS GEL AND HYDROGEL OF RENGGAK LEAF ON PERINEAL WOUND HEALING IN RATS
Authors: Firdaus Ulfa Nadia Nurul , Runjati Runjati , Supriyadi Supriyadi
Published: October 2024

Luka perineum dapat disebabkan oleh persalinan secara spontan oleh alat atau tindakan (episiotomi) dan terjadi selama kelahiran berlangsung. Luka perineum terjadi pada hampir semua persalinan pervaginam yang dialami oleh ibu primipara dan tidak jarang juga terjadi pada multipara. Data Kementerian Kesehatan tahun 2021 menunjukkan bahwa 83% ibu melahirkan pervaginam mengalami ruptur perineum, dengan 63% disebabkan oleh episiotomi dan 38% disebabkan oleh robekan spontan. Luka perineum yang tidak  tertangani  denganntepat  dan  cepat  dapat menyebabkan keterbatasan aktivitas fisik serta gangguan laktasi. Penanganan non-farmakologi menggunakan ekstrak daun renggak menjadi solusi alternatif untuk penyembuhan luka perineum. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui perbandingan gel dan hydrogel daun renggak (amomum dealbatum roxb) terhadap penyembuhan luka perineum pada tikus dibandingkan kelompok kontrol perawatan bersih kering. Jenis penelitian ini yaitu True Experiment dengan Post-test with Control Group menggunakan simple random sampling dengan jumlah sampel 24 ekor tikus betina (Rattus Norvegicus) yang dibagi menjadi 3 kelompok yaitu kelompok gel, hydrogel dan kelompok perawatan bersih kering. Instrumen yang digunakan yaitu lembar observasi skor skala REEDA. Analisis dalam penelitian ini menggunakan uji friedman dan Kruskal wallis. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa gel dan hydrogel daun renggak lebih cepat dalam proses penyembuhan luka perineum sejak hari pertama dibandingkan kelompok kontrol perawatan bersih kering. Hasil analisis kelompok intervensi dan kontrol terdapat penurunan skala REEDA yang bermakna dari hari ke 1 sampai hari ke 7, hal ini ditunjukkan dengan p-value sebesar 0,00 (p-value <0,05). Dapat disimpulkan bahwa pemberian gel dan hydrogel daun renggak efektif sebagai alternatif penyembuhan luka perineum
AKTIVITAS ANTINEFROLITIASIS EKSTRAK ETANOL DAUN SAMBUNG NYAWA [Gynura procumbens (LOUR.) MERR.] PADA TIKUS PUTIH JANTAN (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Evalina Tarigan Rida , Mayanti Tri , Andry Muhammad , Surbakti Chemayanti
Published: October 2024

Gynura procumbens is a diuretic plant that has been used traditionally to cure kidney stones. In order to determine the calcium levels in the rats' kidneys, the anti-nephrolithiasis activity of male white rats was tested in this study.This research method was carried out experimentally in a laboratory which included sampling, plant identification, making simplicia, making ethanol extract of sambung nyawa leaves, characteristics of simplicia, phytochemical screening, administering animal test preparations, then the data was analyzed using the Anova test. Oral administration of succulent leaf extract is done at three different doses: 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg bw. A positive control is provided with Batugin elixir, which is 0.54 mL/125 g BW and induced at a volume of 7.5 mL/125 g BW/day using ethylene glycol 0.75% and ammonium chloride 2%. The study's findings demonstrated that, with a kidney stone inhibitor percentage of 31.71%, the ethanol extract of Sambung Nyawa leaves at a dose of 200 mg/kg BW was more successful in preventing the formation of kidney stones than doses of 50 mg/kg BW and 100 mg/kg BW. This proves that the ethanol extract from Sambung Nyawa leaves can be an alternative way to prevent kidney stones. The conclusion is that the ethanol extract of Gynura procumbens L. leaves has antinephrolithiasis activity in male white rats, especially at a dose of 200 mg/kg BW. It also reduced calcium oxalate levels in mice induced by ethylene glycol and ammonium chloride.
PAIN MANAGEMENT CARE IN DRY SOCKETS CASE AFTER MAXILARRY RIGHT SECOND INCICSOR EXTRACTION
Authors: Fatimah Irma Siti , Laela Dewi Sodja , Nurnaningsih Hera , Ningrum Nining
Published: October 2024

Nyeri yang timbul akibat dry socket sangat mengganggu aktivitas sehari-hari klien. Rasa nyeri ini dapat berlangsung selama beberapa hari hingga minggu, dan dapat semakin parah saat makan atau minum. Asuhan manajemen nyeri pada kasus dry socket merupakan hal yang penting untuk dilakukan. Manajemen nyeri dapat mengurangi rasa nyeri dan ketidaknyamanan, sehingga klien dapat kembali beraktivitas secara normal. Studi kasus ini bertujuan mengetahui penurunan rasa nyeri pada klien penderita dry socket paska pencabutan gigi 22. Metode yang digunakan adalah laporan kasus dengan pendekatan konsep asuhan kesehatan gigi dan mulut yang terdiri dari proses pengkajian, diagnosis, perencanaan, implementasi dan evaluasi. Subjek pada studi kasus ini adalah Tn AP dengan keluhan satu minggu paska pencabutan gigi 22 daerah luka sekitar gusi terasa nyeri yang hebat. Subjek studi diberikan intervensi berupa asuhan manajemen nyeri. Pengukuran rasa nyeri menggunakan Numeric Rating Scale (NRS). Hasil pengkajian awal menunjukkan klien mengalami dry socket disertai nyeri skala 6. Asuhan manajemen nyeri yang diberikan pada klien memperlihatkan penurunan nyeri secara bertahap menjadi skala 0 pada minggu ke-2 . Klien memilih teknik distraksi, teknik fisiologis atau pijatan, terapi musik dan terapi termal panas yang dianggap nyaman dan efektif untuk mengatasi nyeri. Hasil evaluasi yang didapatkan yaitu terpenuhinya kebutuhan akan bebas dari rasa nyeri pada leher dan kepala,  klien dapat mengimplementasikan teknik-teknik manajemen nyeri non-farmokologi. Intervensi asuhan manajemen nyeri dapat dijadikan alternatif penanggulangan kasus dry socket paska pencabutan gigi.
INCREASED PAROXONASE-3 LEVELS IN RATS FED HIGH CHOLESTEROL FEED WITH INDUCTION OF ETHANOL EXTRACT FROM KENIKIR LEAVES (COSMOS CAUDATUS)
Authors: Sarihati I Gusti Agung Dewi , Dhyanaputri I Gusti Ayu Sri , Bekti Heri Setiyo
Published: October 2024

Ekspresi paraoxonase-3 (PON-3) pada HDL berhubungan dengan fungsi antioksidan HDL. PON3 merupakan protein yang penting dalam melindungi pembuluh darah dari aterosklerosis. Cosmos caudatus merupakan salah satu bahan alami yang berkhasiat meningkatkan kadar HDL. Tujuan penelitian adalah untuk menunjukkan pengaruh ekstrak etanol dari daun kenikir (C.caudatus) terhadap kadar PON-3 serum pada tikus yang diberi diet tinggi kolesterol. Penelitian dilakukan di Laboratorium Bio Mice and Rat dan Laboratorium Imunologi Poltekkes Kemenkes Denpasar. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode eksperimen sejati dengan Post-test Only Control Group Design. Sebanyak 24 ekor tikus jantan sebagai sampel dibagi menjadi 4 kelompok. Kelompok I (DS): tikus diberi pakan standar; kelompok 2 (DTK): tikus yang diberi diet tinggi kolesterol; kelompok 3 (Ss): tikus diberi pakan standar, diet tinggi kolesterol dan simvastatin 0,8 mg/kgBB, kelompok 4 (Cc): tikus diberi diet tinggi kolesterol dan ekstrak etanol daun kenikir 200mg/kg BB. Perlakuan diet tinggi kolesterol diberikan kepada kelompok DTK, Ss dan Cc selama 20 minggu. Pada minggu ke 17 hingga minggu ke 20, pada kelompok Ss diberikan tambahan simvastatin, kelompok Cc diberikan ekstrak etanol daun kenikir (C.caudatus), kelompok DS hanya diberikan pakan standar selama 20 minggu. Kadar serum PON3  diperiksa setelah 20 minggu perlakuan. Hasil menunjukkan kadar PON-3 serum tikus kelompok Cc lebih tinggi dibandingkan kelompok DTK. Uji one way anova menunjukkan bahwa ada perbedaan yang signifikan dengan p=0,006 dan kadarnya hampir sama dengan kelompok DS (p=0,891), namun lebih rendah dibandingkan Ss. Dari hasil tersebut disimpulkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh dari pemberian ekstrak etanol daun kenikir terhadap kadar PON-3 serum pada tikus.
THE EFFECT OF BOOKLET MEDIA ON FOOD HANDLER HYGIENE PRACTICES, ATTITUDES, AND KNOWLEDGE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Kaluku Khartini , Sari Martha Puspita
Published: October 2024

Tantangan besar untuk menjaga rantai produksi dan distribusi pangan olahan yang bermutu secara konsisten, termasuk pada masa status darurat wabah COVID-19. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efektivitas penggunaan media booklet untuk meningkatkan pengetahuan, sikap, dan praktik penjamah makanan. Jenis penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif dengan desain pre-post test design. Lokasi penelitian di rumah makan di Kota Ambon, yang akan dilaksanakan pada bulan Maret 2021. Subjek penelitian adalah seluruh penjamah makanan yang berjumlah 70 orang. Pengambilan sampel penjamah makanan dilakukan dengan menggunakan simple random sampling. Variabel bebas adalah media booklet tentang penyuluhan gizi seimbang, sedangkan variabel terikat adalah pengetahuan, sikap dan praktik penjamah makanan. Pada awal penelitian, pengetahuan penjamah makanan diukur dengan menggunakan kuesioner. Hari kedua penelitian, penjamah makanan mendapatkan perlakuan berupa penyuluhan dan pada akhir penelitian dilakukan post test. Data dianalisis dengan menggunakan uji Wilcoxon. Media booklet secara signifikan dapat meningkatkan pengetahuan dan sikap penjamah makanan. Penyuluhan dengan menggunakan booklet dapat mempengaruhi praktik penjamah makanan namun tidak signifikan. Hasil penelitian diharapkan dapat memberikan pengaruh terhadap pengetahuan, sikap dan praktik penjamah makanan terkait penyediaan makanan yang berkualitas pada masa pandemi COVID-19.
PERANAN TOKOH MASYARAKAT DALAM PENGENDALIAN PERILAKU BERISIKO HIV/AIDS
Authors: Handayani Sri , Angelia Inge , Fitri Wiya Elsa
Published: October 2024

The incidence of HIV/AIDS is still high and continues to increase. The Indonesian Ministry of Health's report on P2P in 2019 in Indonesia was 50,282 HIV cases and 7,036 AIDS cases. West Sumatra is ranked 19th regarding the highest number of HIV cases with 541 HIV cases and 258 AIDS cases. The HIV incidence rate in Padang City in 2019 was 287 cases. The aim of this research is to determine the role of bundo kanduang and religious scholars in controlling HIV/AIDS. This research uses quantitative cross-sectional methods. The research will be conducted in Padang City, Payakumbuh City, Fifty Cities Regency, Bukitinggi City and Pasaman Regency in West Sumatra Province with a sample size of 104 people. The research was conducted from August 2021 to December 2022. The research procedures that will be carried out are data collection, data analysis and data interpretation. Data was collected using a questionnaire with data sources namely primary and secondary data. Data were analyzed computerized using SPSS version 25, univariate and bivariate. The results of the research obtained information that there was a relationship between the role of biological mother (p-value = 0.001) and religious ulama (p-value = 0.000) with HIV/AIDS risk behavior. Based on statistical results, information was obtained that there is a relationship between biological parents and religious scholars with HIV/AIDS risk behavior. It is hoped that the West Sumatra government will again increase the role of community leaders by involving community leaders in preparing plans to control HIV/AIDS in the community.