bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Lactose/MCC/L-HPC Triple-Based Co-Processed Excipients with Improved Tableting Performance Designed for Metoclopramide Orally Disintegrating Tablets
Authors: Dai Xiaorong , Wang Jiamin , Yan Bo , Wang Qian , Shen Yan , Chen Yongkang , Tian Yu
Published: July 2024

New co-processed excipients comprising lactose (filler and sweetener), microcrystalline cellulose (MCC, filler), and low-substituted hydroxypropyl cellulose (L-HPC, disintegrant and binder) were developed via solvent evaporation for the preparation of metoclopramide orally disintegrating tablets (MCP ODTs). Single-factor and Box–Behnken experimental designs were employed to optimize the formulation. The optimized formulation ratios were water: MCC: lactose (g/g) = 17.26:2.79:4.54:1. The results demonstrated that particles formed by solvent evaporation had superior flowability and compressibility compared to the physical mixture. Tablets compressed with these co-processed excipients exhibited a significantly reduced disintegration time of less than 25 s and achieved complete dissolution within 5 min. Pharmacokinetic studies revealed that MCP ODTs significantly improved Cmax, which was 1.60-fold higher compared to conventional tablets. In summary, the lactose/L-HPC/MCC triple-based co-processed excipients developed in this study are promising and could be successfully utilized in orally disintegrating and fast-release tablets.
Low-Cost High-Speed Fiber-Coupled Interferometer for Precise Surface Profilometry
Authors: Hagemeier Sebastian , Zou Yijian , Pahl Tobias , Rosenthal Felix , Lehmann Peter
Published: July 2024

Due to their contactless and fast measuring capabilities, laser interferometers represent an interesting alternative to tactile stylus instruments for surface profilometry. In addition to these outstanding attributes, acquisition costs play a major role in industry, limiting the frequent use of optical profilometers, which are significantly more expensive than tactile profilometers. We present a low-cost laser distance-measuring interferometer featuring axial repeatability below 1 nm at acquisition rates of 38,000 height values per second. The sensor’s performance is validated on several surface standards, achieving lateral scan velocities up to 160 mm/s. Further to high scan velocities, the high acquisition rate enables improved measurement accuracy by averaging measured height values. For example, the standard deviation of 625 pm for repeated measurements can be reduced to 265 pm at the expense of the data rate. However, the sensor concept provides the potential for further improvements in data rate and measurement repeatability.
Exogenous Sodium Nitroprusside Alleviates Drought Stress in Lagenaria siceraria
Authors: Zhang Xiaodi , Qi Saike , Liu Shan , Mu Hongmei , Jiang Yiyue
Published: July 2024

Drought is one of the non-biological stresses that affect the growth and development of plants globally, especially Lagenaria siceraria plants. As a common nitric oxide (NO) donor, sodium nitroprusside plays a significant role in enhancing the resistance of plants to non-biological stresses. In this study, ‘Yayao’ (L. siceraria) was selected as the material through which to investigate the mitigating effects of different concentrations of sodium nitroprusside on L. siceraria plants under moderate drought stress. The results showed that a concentration of 0.25 mmol·L−1 sodium nitroprusside had the best mitigation effect on drought stress in L. siceraria plants. Under this condition, the plant height and leaf dry weight and fresh weight increased by 12.21%, 21.84%, and 40.48%. The photosynthetic parameters were significantly improved, and the fluorescence parameters Fo and Fm were reduced by 17.04% and 7.80%, respectively. The contents of soluble sugar and proline increased by 35.12% and 44.49%, respectively. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) increased by 51.52%, 164.11%, and 461.49%, respectively. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) decreased by 34.53%, which alleviated the damage caused by reactive oxygen species. Additionally, sodium nitroprusside promoted the expression of genes related to antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and POD). Overall, this analysis indicates that an appropriate concentration of sodium nitroprusside can enhance the drought tolerance of L. siceraria plants through multiple aspects and alleviate the harm caused by drought stress.
Interaction between Sugarcane and Environmental Stressors: From Identification to Molecular Mechanism
Authors: Gao San-Ji , Javed Talha
Published: July 2024

An increase in the vulnerability of crops to a wide range of biotic and abiotic stresses can have a marked influence on the productivity and quality of major crops, especially sugarcane (Saccharum spp [...]
Nitrogen Mineralization of Selected Organic Materials and Their Combined Effects with Nitrogen Fertilizer on Spinach Yield
Authors: Mgolozeli Sibongiseni , Nciizah Adornis D. , Wakindiki Isaiah I. C. , Mudau Fhatuwani N.
Published: July 2024

A 2-month incubation study was carried out using two soil types to determine the nitrogen mineralization of different inorganic–organic amendments. The following seven treatments (Ts) were established: T1 = control (no amendment), T2 = 5 g of dry algae per kg of soil (100%DA), T3 = 136 g of agri-mat per kg of soil (100%GAM), T4 = 61 g of ground grass per kg of soil (100%GG), T5 = 0.6 g of N using lime–ammonium nitrate (LAN) + 2.5 g of dry algae (50%DA50NF), T6 = 50%GAM50NF, and T7 = 50%GG50NF. Three samples per treatment were obtained at 0, 3, 7, 15, 30, 45, and 60 days for N mineral determination. A 2-month glasshouse experiment was established afterward with the following five treatments: T1 = control, T2 = 50%DA, T3 = 50%GAM, T4 = 50%GG, and T5 = 100 NF. The results indicate that nitrogen mineralization was significantly higher in organic–inorganic amendments compared with singular organic amendments. The percentage differences ranged from 157% to 195%. The 50%DA treatment increased the spinach yield by 20.6% in sandy loam and 36.5% in loam soil. It is difficult to fully recommend the 50%DA treatment without field-scale evaluation, but it is a promising option to be considered.
Structure–Activity Relationship of Natural Dihydrochalcones and Chalcones, and Their Respective Oxyalkylated Derivatives as Anti-Saprolegnia Agents
Authors: Madrid Alejandro , Muñoz Evelyn , Silva Valentina , Martínez Manuel , Flores Susana , Valdés Francisca , Cabezas-González David , Montenegro Iván
Published: July 2024

Saprolegnia sp. is a pathogenic oomycete responsible for severe economic losses in aquaculture. To date, there is no treatment for its control that is effective and does not pose a threat to the environment and human health. In this research, two dihydrochalcones 1 and 2, and three chalcones 3–5, isolated from the resinous plant Adesmia balsamica, as well as their synthesized oxyalkylated derivatives 6–29 already reported and a new synthesized series of oxyalkylchalcones 30–35, were evaluated for their anti-saprolegnia activity and structure–activity relationship as potential control and treatment agents for strains of Saprolegnia parasitica and S. australis. Among the molecules tested, natural 2′,4′-dihydroxychalcone (3) and new oxyalkylchalcone 34 were the most potent antisaprolegnia agents against both strains, even with better results than the commercial control bronopol. On the other hand, the structure–activity relationship study indicates that the contributions of steric and electrostatic fields are important to enhance the activity of the compounds, thus the presence of bulky substituents favors the activity.
A Preliminary Study on Determining Seasonal Variations in Halloumi Cheese Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy and Chemometrics
Authors: Tarapoulouzi Maria , Entrenas José-Antonio , Pérez-Marín Dolores , Pashalidis Ioannis , Theocharis Charis R.
Published: July 2024

Cheese quality is affected by seasonal variations. These variations can influence several aspects of cheese, including its flavor, texture, nutritional content, and overall sensory qualities. The aim of this study was to assess the performance of near-infrared (NIR) instrumentation in terms of its ability to detect seasonal variations in Halloumi cheese samples when applying limited sample preparation compared to traditional protocols. Therefore, the use of NIR spectroscopy was examined for the determination of seasonal variations in Halloumi cheese samples from Cyprus in combination with chemometrics. Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) was applied. We found that NIR and chemometrics successfully discriminated the Halloumi cheese samples based on different climate conditions, the four seasons in the year when the milk collection took place. To externally validate the model, the dataset was divided into training and test sets. The innovation of this study is that Halloumi cheese was studied regarding seasonal variations by applying NIR for the first time. The outcome of this preliminary study is positive in terms of the capability of NIR to distinguish seasonal variations in Halloumi cheese, especially those due to differences in fatty acid molecules throughout the year. Future studies will include more samples to increase the current database.
Optimization Analysis of Various Parameters Based on Response Surface Methodology for Enhancing NOx Catalytic Reduction Performance of Urea Selective Catalytic Reduction on Cu-ZSM-13 Catalyst
Authors: Li Weiqi , Wu Jie , Yao Dongwei , Wu Feng , Wang Lei , Lou Hua , He Haibin , Hu Jingyi
Published: July 2024

While selective catalytic reduction (SCR) has long been indispensable for nitrogen oxide (NOx) removal, optimizing its performance remains a significant challenge. This study investigates the combined effects of structural and intake parameters on SCR performance, an aspect often overlooked in previous research. This paper innovatively developed a three-dimensional SCR channel model and employed response surface methodology to conduct an in-depth analysis of multiple key factors. This multidimensional, multi-method approach enables a more comprehensive understanding of SCR system mechanics. Through target optimization, we achieved a simultaneous improvement in three critical indicators: the NOx conversion rate, pressure drop, and ammonia slip. It is worth noting that the NOx conversion rate has been optimized from 17.07% to 98.25%, the pressure drop has been increased from 3454.62 Pa to 2558.74 Pa, and the NH3 slip has been transformed from 122.26 ppm to 17.49 ppm. These results not only advance the theoretical understanding of SCR technology but also provide valuable design insights for practical applications. Our findings pave the way for the development of more efficient and environmentally friendly SCR systems, potentially revolutionizing NOx control in various industries.
Direct Epoxidation of Hexafluoropropene Using Molecular Oxygen over Cu-Impregnated HZSM-5 Zeolites
Authors: Huang Jie-Ming , Guo Jingning , Xu Chengmiao , Su An , Wu Ke-Jun , He Chao-Hong
Published: July 2024

This study explores a novel method of directly epoxidizing hexafluoropropene with molecular oxygen under gaseous conditions using a Cu/HZSM-5 catalytic system (Cu/HZ). An in-depth investigation was conducted on the catalytic performance of Cu-based catalysts on various supports and Cu/HZ catalysts prepared under different conditions. Cu/HZ catalysts exhibited better catalytic performance than other porous medium-supported Cu catalysts for the epoxidation of hexafluoropropene by molecular oxygen. The highest propylene oxide yield of 35.6% was achieved over the Cu/HZ catalyst prepared under conditions of 350 °C with a Cu loading of 1 wt%. By applying characterization techniques including XRD, BET, NH3-TPD, and XPS to different catalyst samples, the relationship between the interaction of Cu2+ and HZSM-5 and the reactivity of the catalyst was studied, thereby elucidating the influence of calcination temperature and loading on the reactivity. Finally, we further proposed the possible mechanism of how isolated Cu2+ and acid sites improve catalytic performance.
Higher Educational Attainment and Lower Labor Participation among Bangladeshi Migrant Muslim Women in Australia: Disparity and Internal Barriers
Authors: Mahbuba Farjana
Published: July 2024

The 2021 census data in Australia show that a higher proportion of Bangladeshi Muslim women in Australia have postgraduate degrees compared to the broader female population. They are also more likely to have a bachelor’s degree when compared to their counterparts in the wider female cohort. However, the unemployment rate for Bangladeshi Muslim women is more than twice as high as that of the general female population. While a comparison between higher educational attainment and lower labour participation raises the question of whether the goal of higher education is indeed labour participation and the dilemma of valuing education solely based on its economic returns, nonetheless, the disparity alarms curiosity to investigate the reasons. The existing research on Muslim women in Australia reveal a complex web of external and internal multilayered intersecting factors that influence migrant women’s labour participation and makes them more susceptible to financial vulnerabilities. Utilizing qualitative methods in analysing fieldwork data from ongoing PhD research, this paper underscores the critical need for a nuanced understanding of internal cultural, domestic, and religious factors to address the unique challenges faced by this demographic in their labour market participation in Australia.
The Impact of FinTech Adoption on Traditional Financial Inclusion in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Kamara Abdul Karim , Yu Baorong
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the impact of FinTech adoption on traditional financial inclusion in 22 countries in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The study utilizes the World Bank’s World Development Indicators data and the International Monetary Fund’s Financial Access Survey data. This study employed Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to construct the dimensions of traditional financial inclusion and the overall financial inclusion index. Applying the Generalized Method of Moments estimation technique to annual data spanning from 2004 to 2022, the findings show that FinTech has a negative and statistically significant effect on the geographic and usage dimensions. However, it has a positive and statistically significant impact on the demographic dimension and the overall traditional financial inclusion index. These findings indicate that FinTech does not have a detrimental impact on traditional financial inclusion, which is contrary to the findings of other studies. Therefore, in order to enhance the degree of financial inclusion in SSA, it is important for traditional financial inclusion to effectively utilize FinTech.
Towards Diagnosing and Mitigating Behavioral Cyber Risks
Authors: Pugnetti Carlo , Björck Albena , Schönauer Reto , Casián Carlos
Published: July 2024

A company’s cyber defenses are based on a secure infrastructure and risk-aware behavior by employees. With rising cyber threats and normative training efforts showing limited impact, raising cyber risk awareness is emerging as a challenging effort. The review of the extant literature on awareness diagnosis shows interdisciplinary but mainly theoretical approaches to understanding attitudes and influencing risk behavior. We propose and test a novel methodology to combine and operationalize two tools, deep metaphor interviews and the IDEA risk communication model, to apply them for the first time in the context of behavioral cyber vulnerabilities. The results show a link between diagnosed attitudes and effective risk behavior in a real-life organizational setting, indicating the potential for an expanded diagnostic effort. We propose to develop a broader diagnostic and intervention set to improve cyber awareness and a toolkit to support the business practice of cyber risk management.
Large-Scale Urban Traffic Management Using Zero-Shot Knowledge Transfer in Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning for Intersection Patterns
Authors: Tranos Theodore , Spatharis Christos , Blekas Konstantinos , Stafylopatis Andreas-Giorgios
Published: July 2024

The automatic control of vehicle traffic in large urban networks constitutes one of the most serious challenges to modern societies, with an impact on improving the quality of human life and saving energy and time. Intersections are a special traffic structure of pivotal importance as they accumulate a large number of vehicles that should be served in an optimal manner. Constructing intelligent models that manage to automatically coordinate and steer vehicles through intersections is a key point in the fragmentation of traffic control, offering active solutions through the flexibility of automatically adapting to a variety of traffic conditions. Responding to this call, this work aims to propose an integrated active solution of automatic traffic management. We introduce a multi-agent reinforcement learning framework that effectively models traffic flow at individual unsignalized intersections. It relies on a compact agent definition, a rich information state space, and a learning process characterized not only by depth and quality, but also by substantial degrees of freedom and variability. The resulting driving profiles are further transferred to larger road networks to integrate their individual elements and compose an effective automatic traffic control platform. Experiments are conducted on simulated road networks of variable complexity, demonstrating the potential of the proposed method.
The Role of Higher Education in Youth Justice: A ‘Child-First’ Approach to Diversion
Authors: Brierley Andrew , Bruell Alison , McDermott Danielle
Published: July 2024

This article examines the perspectives of justice-involved children regarding the obstacles to accessing higher education (HE). It outlines the regulatory approach of the Office for Students (OfS) aimed at ensuring the sector aids disadvantaged children in ‘raising attainment’ through outreach activities to enhance the equality of opportunity. The analysis incorporates both desistance theory and ecological systems theory to understand children’s viewpoints on how being outside mainstream education affects their transition from specialised programs to further learning beyond secondary school. This approach is anchored in the ‘Child-First’ principle, a core aspect of the Youth Justice Board’s strategic plan for 2021–2024, emphasising the importance of children’s voices in efforts to divert them from the youth justice system, thereby reducing victimisation and fostering safer communities. The findings indicate that justice-involved children not in mainstream education who have supportive micro- and mesosystems are more likely to develop an identity aligned with continuing education post secondary school, through positive encouragement and relational environments that promote educational pathways. Thus, higher education can contribute to raising attainment for justice-involved children not in mainstream education by focusing on the broader ecological system surrounding the child, which can encourage a pro-social and pro-educational identity.
Effects of Drought on Child Protection in Hard-to-Reach Communities in Kenya
Authors: Mburu Samuel , Wali Irene , Mukisa Sarah , Sironga Nancy , Adan Hussein
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to assess child protection-related needs among drought-affected populations in selected arid counties in Kenya. The specific objectives included: to understand the different underlying vulnerabilities that children and adolescents face during drought with a gender and disability lens; to assess the current or potential presence of emergency risks and their likelihood of occurrence, the capacities, and coping mechanisms of families; identify emerging areas of concern regarding children and adolescents, including those with disability; and informing the interventions through development partners and relevant government ministries. This study adopted a non-experimental design that utilized a mixed-methods approach. The quantitative data collection involved a survey of 1800 households. The information was collected about children (i.e., individuals aged 0–17), their caregivers, and their households. Two methods were used to collect qualitative data. These included Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). The study established that during drought and in the recovery period, there were increased cases of children dropping out of school mainly due to the migration of families. Child labour and household chores were also mentioned as other vulnerabilities that children and adolescents faced during drought. The findings also noted an inter-linkage between female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriage, and teenage pregnancy across all communities under study. The difficulties occasioned by drought forced many families in ASAL counties to prepare their girls for marriage through the practice of FGM. Despite the high occurrences of sexual violence against children, child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and neglect, the child protection services available for affected children were low. This study recommends strengthening child protection structures at the community level by building the recruitment and capacity of child protection volunteers; sensitizing both parents and children to knowing the proper reporting channels in case of child protection issues; and strengthening the engagement of grassroots organisations, community-based groups, and local-level networks to prevent and respond to child protection concerns.
Association between United States Environmental Contaminants and the Prevalence of Psoriasis Derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Guo Linfen , Tu Beilin , Li Deng , Zhi Lin , Zhang Yange , Xiao Haitao , Li Wei , Xu Xuewen
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: Prolonged coexposure to environmental contaminants is reportedly associated with adverse impacts on skin health. However, the collective effects of contaminant mixtures on psoriasis prevalence remain unclear. (2) Methods: A nationally representative cohort study was conducted using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003–2006 and 2009–2014. The association between contaminant exposures and psoriasis prevalence was analyzed through weighted quantile sum regressions, restricted cubic splines, and multivariable logistic regression. (3) Results: 16,453 participants and 60 contaminants in 8 groups were involved. After adjusting for demographics and comorbidities, exposure to urinary perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate mixtures (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.00–1.21) demonstrated a significant positive linear association with psoriasis prevalence. Ethyl paraben (OR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.02–1.44) exhibited a significant positive correlation with psoriasis risk as an individual contaminant. The association between blood cadmium, lead, and mercury mixtures (OR: 1.10, 95% CI: 1.00–1.21), urinary perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate mixtures (OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.00–1.34), and psoriasis prevalence was more pronounced in the lower healthy lifestyle score subgroup. (4) Conclusions: Exposure to perchlorate, nitrate, and thiocyanate mixtures, and ethyl paraben was associated with an elevated psoriasis prevalence. Furthermore, the association between cadmium and lead and mercury mixtures as well as perchlorate, nitrate and thiocyanate mixtures, and psoriasis prevalence was more pronounced in individuals with less healthy lifestyles.
Hybrid Immunity Protects against Antibody Fading after SARS-CoV-2mRNA Vaccination in Kidney Transplant Recipients, Dialysis Patients, and Medical Personnel: 9 Months Data from the Prospective, Observational Dia-Vacc Study
Authors: Stumpf Julian , Siepmann Torsten , Schwöbel Jörg , Karger Claudia , Lindner Tom H. , Faulhaber-Walter Robert , Langer Torsten , Escher Katja , Anding-Rost Kirsten , Seidel Harald , Hüther Jan , Pistrosch Frank , Martin Heike , Schewe Jens , Stehr Thomas , Meistring Frank , Paliege Alexander , Schneider Daniel , Steglich Anne , Gembardt Florian , Kessel Friederike , Kröger Hannah , Arndt Patrick , Sradnick Jan , Frank Kerstin , Klimova Anna , Mauer René , Roeder Ingo , Tonn Torsten , Hugo Christian
Published: July 2024

(1) Background: Compared to medical personnel, SARS-CoV-2mRNA vaccination-related positive immunity rates, levels, and preservation over time in dialysis and kidney transplant patients are reduced. We hypothesized that COVID-19 pre-exposure influences both vaccination-dependent immunity development and preservation in a group-dependent manner. (2) Methods: We evaluated 2- and 9-month follow-up data in our observational Dia-Vacc study, exploring specific cellular (interferon-γ release assay = IGRA) and/or humoral immune responses (IgA/IgG/RBD antibodies) after two SARS-CoV-2mRNA vaccinations in 2630 participants, including medical personnel (301-MP), dialysis patients (1841-DP), and kidney transplant recipients (488-KTR). Study participants were also separated into COVID-19 pre-exposure (hybrid immunity) positive (n = 407) versus negative (n = 2223) groups. (3) Results: COVID-19 pre-exposure improved most vaccination-related positive immunity rates in KTR and DP at 2 months but not in MP, where rates reached almost 100% independent of hybrid immunity. In the COVID-19-negative study, patients’ immunity faded between two and nine months, evaluated via the percentage of patients with an RBD antibody decrease >50%, and was markedly group- (MP-17.8%, DP-52.2%, and KTR-38.6%) and vaccine type-dependent. In contrast, in all patient groups with COVID-19, pre-exposure RBD antibody decreases of >50% were similarly rare (MP-4.3%, DP-7.2%, and KTR-0%) but still vaccine type-dependent, with numerically reduced numbers in mRNA-1273- versus BNT162b2mRNA-treated patients. Multivariable regression analysis of RBD antibody changes between two and nine months by interval scale categorization confirmed COVID-19 pre-exposure as a factor in inhibiting strong RBD Ab fading. COVID-19 pre-exposure in MP and DP also numerically reduced T-cell immunity fading. In DP, symptomatic (versus asymptomatic) COVID-19 pre-exposure was identified as a factor in reducing strong RBD Ab fading after vaccination. (4) Conclusions: After mRNA vaccination, immunity positivity rates in DP and KTR but not MP, as well as immunity preservation in MP/DP/KTR, are markedly improved via prior COVID-19 infection. In DP, prior symptomatic compared to asymptomatic COVID-19 disease was particularly effective in blocking immunity fading after mRNA vaccination.
Reactogenicity Differences between Adjuvanted, Protein-Based and Messenger Ribonucleic Acid (mRNA)-Based COVID-19 Vaccines
Authors: Rousculp Matthew D. , Hollis Kelly , Ziemiecki Ryan , Odom Dawn , Marchese Anthony M. , Montazeri Mitra , Odak Shardul , Jackson Laurin , Beyhaghi Hadi , Toback Seth
Published: July 2024

Participants in studies investigating COVID-19 vaccines commonly report reactogenicity events, and concerns about side effects may lead to a reluctance to receive updated COVID-19 vaccinations. A real-world, post hoc analysis, observational 2019nCoV-406 study was conducted to examine reactogenicity within the first 2 days after vaccination with either a protein-based vaccine (NVX-CoV2373) or an mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273) in individuals who previously completed a primary series. Propensity score adjustments were conducted to address potential confounding. The analysis included 1130 participants who received a booster dose of NVX-CoV2373 (n = 303) or an mRNA vaccine (n = 827) during the study period. Within the first 2 days after vaccination, solicited systemic reactogenicity events (adjusted) were reported in 60.5% of participants who received NVX-CoV2373 compared with 84.3% of participants who received an mRNA vaccine; moreover, 33.9% and 61.4%, respectively, reported ≥3 systemic reactogenicity symptoms. The adjusted mean (95% CI) number of systemic symptoms was 1.8 (1.6–2.0) and 3.2 (3.0–3.4), respectively. Local reactogenicity events (adjusted) were reported in 73.4% and 91.7% of participants who received NVX-CoV2373 and mRNA vaccines, respectively; the adjusted mean (95% CI) number of local symptoms was 1.5 (1.33–1.61) and 2.4 (2.31–2.52), respectively. These results support the use of adjuvanted, protein-based NVX-CoV2373 as an immunization option with lower reactogenicity than mRNAs.
Overview of the Implementation of the First Year of Immunization against Human Papillomavirus across Different Administrative Units in Serbia and Montenegro
Authors: Štrbac Mirjana , Joksimović Milko , Vuković Vladimir , Ristić Mioljub , Lončarević Goranka , Kanazir Milena , Nikolić Nataša , Pustahija Tatjana , Rajčević Smiljana , Ljubičić Stefan , Koprivica Marko , Laušević Dragan , Petrović Vladimir
Published: July 2024

Despite the availability of a safe and effective vaccination, uptake of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination remains low worldwide. We aimed to analyze the coverage of HPV immunization during the first year of the immunization program and the sociodemographic characteristics across different administrative units in Serbia and Montenegro. Coverage of HPV vaccination in Serbia for females aged 9–14 and 15–19 years was 5.5% and 5.9%, respectively. The coverage rate of immunization against HPV in Montenegro for girls aged 9–14 years was 22.1%. Within Serbia, only one administrative region (Moravica) had HPV immunization coverage in girls 9–19 years old above 10%, 11 districts had coverage from 5 to 10%, while 13 districts had coverage below 5%. As per Montenegro, two administrative units, Cetinje and Berane, reported the highest coverage, with 39% and 36.4% of vaccinated eligible girls, respectively. When we explored the coverage of HPV immunization among girls aged 9–19 years across different regions in Serbia, we observed that the level of coverage did not correlate with the number of pediatricians or with the population density. In Montenegro, we observed a similar situation. On the other hand, we noticed a statistically significant moderate negative correlation (r = −0.446; p = 0.026) between HPV immunization coverage and the percentage of illiterate women in the administrative units. Comparing the coverage between the two countries we found that the higher coverage in Montenegro corresponded with a smaller number of female populations aged 9–14 years, with higher average net monthly income, with smaller population density and smaller number of pediatricians, among divorced persons, and among those without formal education or incompletely primary education. Taking into account the experiences in Montenegro, increasing immunization coverage in Serbia could be achieved through a more vigorous educational campaign targeting schools, the general population, and healthcare workers as well as by additionally incentivizing those engaged in these activities.
Kepatuhan Ibu Hamil Melakukan Kunjungan Antenatal Care (ANC) pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19
Authors: Dewanggayastuti Komang Intan , Surinati I Dewa Ayu Ketut , Hartati Ni Nyoman
Published: July 2024

Maternal and newborn mortality rates are still a concern for the government, including during the Covid-19 pandemic. Monitoring physical and mental health including fetal growth and development is one of the efforts to prevent maternal death. The research objective was to describe the compliance of pregnant women in conducting antenatal care (ANC) visits during the Covid-19 pandemic at Public Healt Center. The methode of this research was discriptif design. The samples were consisted of 63 respondents selected with Purposive sampling technique. The results of this study were visits to ANC first to sixth visits, only visits 1 and 4 were carried out 100%, other visits had not reached 100% and the rarest were visits to 6 which were only 30,2%. Overall compliance with ANC visits during the Covid-19 pandemic at Public Health Center as many as 79,4% of pregnant women did not comply with ANC. ANC visit compliance during the Covid-19 pandemic based on its characteristics 61,9% of mothers aged 20-35 years did not comply with ANC, 54% of mothers with more than once parity were not compliant, 31,7% of mothers with higher education were not compliant ANC, and 60,4% of working mothers are not compliant for ANC.
Gambaran Pengetahuan Terapi Akupresur pada Pasien Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Sri Regiantari Ni Made , Gede Ngurah I Gusti Ketut
Published: July 2024

Acupressure therapy is a traditional therapy that uses hands or blunt objects to massage. Diabetes Mellitus is a disease that correlates with blood sugar levels exceeding normal limits. This study aims to determine the description of acupressure therapy in Diabetes Mellitus in Pedungan Village, South Denpasar District, Denpasar City 2021. The population of this study was 50 respondents and a sample of 44 respondents, with a descriptive type of research used a sampling technique, namely purposive sampling. The measuring instrument used was a questionnaire knowledge of acupressure therapy. The results of this study indicate that of the 44 respondents, the majority were 40-49 years old as many as 20 respondents (45.5%). There were 24 female respondents (54.5%). The final high school education level were 28 respondents (63.6%). work as private employees 19 respondents (43.2) The conclusions of this study were 18 respondents with less knowledge (40.9%), 14 respondents with sufficient knowledge (31.8%), and 12 respondents with good knowledge (27.3%), lack of knowledge because they are not exposed to information. Advice on knowledge related to Diabetes Mellitus and Acupressure therapy with poster.
Hubungan Kekhawatiran Wisatawan Keluarga terhadap Pelaksanaan Parenting Health Education pada Masa Pandemi Covid-19 di Kids Club Hotel Nusa Dua
Authors: Dewi Ayu Virgayanti Ni Made , Ribek I Nyoman , Yunianti Suntari Cakera Ni Luh Putu
Published: July 2024

In Indonesia, family celebrations fall ill with 36% of children getting sick while traveling. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of family tourists to the implementation of parenting health education during the Covid-19 pandemic at the Kids Club Hotel Nusa Dua in 2022. This research was conducted in March-April 2022 using the correlation method with the approach used, namely cross-sectional. The sample used was 106 family tourists who brought their children to visit the Kids Club Hotel Nusa Dua using the Purposive Sampling technique. Statistical testing using Spearman rank correlation test. The characteristics of the elderly respondents obtained were the average age of respondents from family tourists 26-35 years, 58% with the most gender being 70.8% female. characteristics of visitors aged 6 years 36% with male gender 60%. Activities carried out when children visit the Kids Club as much as 50% carry out the main activity, namely playing games that have been prepared at the Kids Club. Holiday levels. Family tourists' concerns about the implementation of parenting health education have a significant relationship with the p value = 0.001 (0.05). So it is necessary to provide counseling to tourists so that they can control so that anxiety disorders do not occur so that they carry out parental health education to the maximum.
Efektivitas Edukasi Stunting dengan Media Whatsapp terhadap Tingkat Pengetahuan Orang Tua yang Memiliki Balita Stunting
Authors: Briggita Brillianti Ni Kadek , Sipahutar Ida Erni , Ribek I Nyoman
Published: July 2024

Stunting is a condition in which children under five have a length or height that is less than their age. One of the contributing factors is knowledge. This study aims to determine the effectiveness of stunting education with whatsApp media on the level of knowledge of parents who have stunting children under five in Payangan sub district in 2022. This research used one group pretest-post test design and random sampling technique with 40 people as the sample. Knowledge data collection using a questionnaire. Statistical test using computerized, normality test using shapiro-wilk and nonparametric test using wilcoxon test (95% CI =0.05). The results obtained before the sample received stunting education, group discussions, and leaflet distribution, there were nine people (22,5%) who had sufficient knowledge and 31 people (77,5%) with less knowledge before the interventions in the form of education, group discussions, and leaflet distribution. Meanwhile after the interventions there were 40 people (100%) who had good knowledge. The result of the Wilcoxon Test is p value 0.000, it means that there is a significant increase in sample knowledge after education, group discussions, and leaflet distribution. Therefore, stunting education with whatsApp media is effective on the level of knowledge of parents who have stunting children under five in Payangan sub district in 2022. Recommendations: it is expected that parents of children under five more actively seek information through health workers or electronic media and discussions with health workers via whatsApp.
Gambaran Pemberian Terapi Senam Kaki Diabetes pada Lansia dengan Diabetes Mellitus Tipe II
Authors: Candra Dinata I Made , Henny Achjar Komang Ayu , Gama I Ketut , Sudiantara Ketut
Published: July 2024

Diabetes melitus type II occurred because due to the introduction of resistance which the cells in the body insulin that are unable to respond to fully insulin or caused by the increase in blood sugar because decreased secretion of insulin that are low by the glands of the pancreas. Diabetic foot exercises therapy is the treatment of diabetes melitus in non pharmacology, this therapy done 3 times a week for 30-40 minutes to help launch circulatory on the foot , control blood glucose , strengthen the legs and prevent deformities feet. This study aims to determine the description of giving diabetic foot exercises therapy for elderly with diabetes melitus type II. This research uses descriptive research.The population as many as 50 elderly people with diabetes melitus type ii with samples from 47 respondents. The result of this research shown majority of respondents aged 60-69 year as 55,3 %, majority women as much as 76,6 %, The average blood glucose levels before it was given diabetic foot exercises therapy is 204,74 mg/dL and after these gymnastic feet diabetes is 189,55 mg/dL. Overall, respondents are able to by to do therapy gymnastic feet diabetes properly a number of 93,6 % . Based on the result of this research it can be concluded that gymnastic feet diabetes therapy can be decrease blood glucose when blood glucose levels and researchers hope that large gymnastic feet diabetes therapy to continue as physical exercise to control blood glucose levels.
Nursing Students Challenges in Studying While Working in The Era of The Covid-19 Pandemic: a Qualitative Focus Group Study
Authors: Tambunan Ellen Ruth Tambunan , Tambunan Evelyn Hemme
Published: July 2024

Studying while working in the era of the Covid-19 pandemic has become a challenging experiences among nursing students. Various experiences in such positive and negative experiences as well as challenging experiences in online learning were the themes of several qualitative research results. This study aimed to investigate the nursing students challenges in studying while working in the era of the Covid-19 pandemic. Two focus-group interviews were conducted with 17 participants (age 40-60 yo) who have working experience as a nurse more than 10 years in an extension nursing program at one of private nursing school in Bandung, Indonesia. Trustworthiness was established by Lincoln and Guba’s criteria. Then, the qualitative inductive content analysis was performed. Four themes were generated namely time challenges, technology challenges, individual challenges and learning challenges. There were ten sub-themes emerged namely studying and working at the same time, dividing time between studying, working and doing household chores, time and location difference, use of computer and zoom, internet network, age and length of time not in college, physical health, credits and many courses, lots of learning tasks and learning strategies. While there is a growing body of research on the online learning challenges in the era of Covid-19 pandemic, a need to continue to study it through thoughtful, well-designed studies to serve as a guide to scholars and educators in online learning and beyond.
Hubungan Intensitas Bermain Game Online dengan Tingkat Stress dan Kecerdasan Emopsional Remaja Pada Era New Normal
Authors: Armiandeni Ni Made Yeshika , Susanti Ni Luh Putu Dina , Parwati Ni Wayan Manik
Published: July 2024

An online game is a game that can be accessed through electronic media connecting to an internet network. Addiction to playing online games has an impact on someone’s mental health namely stress and emotional intelligence. This study aimed to determine the correlation between the intensity of online game playing toward stress levels and emotional intelligence in the new normal era. This study was quantitative research with a correlational design. There were 157 adolescents who played an online game at Perumahan Griya Nugraha recruited as a sample of this study which was selected through convenience sampling. The data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed using Spearman’s Rho test. The finding showed a positive correlation between the intensity of online game playing and stress level with p-value 0,001 dan r = 0,451. There was a negative correlation between the intensity of playing the online game and emotional intelligence with p-value 0,001 dan r = -0,550. it can be concluded that there is a correlation between the intensity of playing online games toward stress levels and emotional intelligence.
Kepuasan Pengguna Layanan Laboratorium Pendidikan Keperawatan
Authors: Juniari Ni Made , Suardani Ni Luh Ketut
Published: July 2024

Laboratories are supporting units in higher education institutions. Therefore, it needs to be supported by good laboratory management so that the implementation of activities can run optimally. The educational laboratory at the Denpasar Health Polytechnic Nursing Department serves more than 800 users every year. So it is deemed necessary to assess the satisfaction of users of laboratory services and find out what things are the priorities to be improved, to achieve optimal service. The purpose of this study is to determine the level of satisfaction with the service quality method and analysis of the importance of performance that needs to be improved to achieve a laboratory management system that can provide satisfactory service. This research is quantitative descriptive research. The number of samples in this study was 455 respondents. Data on user satisfaction of laboratory services was collected using a questionnaire. The analysis technique begins with an analysis of the gap between user perceptions and expectations, followed by an analysis with the Importance Performance Analysis (IPA) matrix. The research results show that the gap for all attributes is negative, which means that expectations are higher than perceived perceptions. The tangible dimension produces a gap of -0,55 and a service quality value of 0.89 from the division of perceptions with expectations so that it is lowest ranked  and is the dimension that has the biggest gap among all dimensions. The results of the IPA analysis show that there are still 6 attributes in quadrant I, so it is necessary to make improvements to these six attributes.
Senam Tera Berpengaruh terhadap Tekanan Darah pada Lansia dengan Hipertensi
Authors: Setiawati Si Ayu Rai , Lestari Agus Sri , Gama Ketut , Suardana Ketut , Harini I Gusti Ayu
Published: July 2024

The decline in physical condition in the elderly causes limited movement so that the elasticity of blood vessels becomes reduced. This condition becomes a predisposing factor of hypertension. This study aims to determine the effect of tera gymnastics on blood pressure in the elderly with hypertension in the working area of Puskesmas II West Denpasar in 2023. This type of research is quasi-experimental designs using a one-group pretest-posttest design. The number of samples was 36people using a non-probability sampling technique, namely purposive sampling. This study was conducted for 2 weeks with 6 interventions. Blood pressure measurement was done before the intervention was given then did a tera gymnasticsintervention for 30 minutes and blood pressure measurement was done again after 6 interventions. Data was analyzed by paired t-test. The results of the study found that the average systolic blood pressure before the intervention was 155.89 mmHg and diastolic was 98.14 mmHg. The mean systolic blood pressure after the intervention was 134.42 mmHg and diastolic was 90.67 mmHg. . The results of the statistical test obtained a p-value of 0.001 (p-value 0.05) so that it can be concluded that there is an effect of tera gymnastics on blood pressure in the elderly with hypertension in the work area of Puskesmas II West Denpasar in 2023. It is recommended that tera gymnastics be carried out regularly at least 3 times a week and used as a non-pharmacological therapy to lower blood pressure in hypertensive elderly in the work area of Puskesmas II West Denpasar.
PENGARUH PROGRAM UNIVERSITAS “KEWIRAUSAHAAN”, KREATIVITAS, EFIKASI DIRI WIRAUSAHA TERHADAP NIAT BERWIRAUSAHA
Authors: Tantri Yanuar Rahmat Syah  , Darmawan Hery , Rojuaniah  , Puji Astuti  , Kristiana Widiawati
Published: July 2024

This study aims to analyze the effect of entrepreneurial program, creativity, and entrepreneurial self-efficacy on the entrepreneurial intention of Bina Insani University students. Data were collected through an online questionnaire to students who had participated in the entrepreneurial program. Data analysis was conducted using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SPSS and SmartPLS. The results showed that the entrepreneurial program had a positive effect on entrepreneurial intention, while creativity and entrepreneurial self-efficacy had no direct effect on entrepreneurial intention. This research is expected to provide valuable information for educational institutions in their efforts to improve the quality of education and encourage young entrepreneurs from among students.
Applying Swot Analysis Adapted to Public Management: An Action Research
Authors: Saada Lima Chequer Fernandez  , Carlos Augusto Correia Lima Reis  , Carla Xavier dos Santos Kaufman  , Katharine Valéria Saraiva Hodel  , Bruna Aparecida Souza Machado  , Aloísio Santos Nascimento Filho  , Camila de Sousa Pereira Guizzo
Published: July 2024

This initiative aimed to adapt the SWOT analysis to the public management context. The adapted technique was applied in a case study of a Brazilian organization focused on Science, Technology, and innovation in the healthcare sector. Data was gathered through questionnaires from 67 participants involved in the institution's strategic planning and analyzed using mixed methods with the assistance of Iramuteq software. Similarity analysis identified four distinct classes, one of which was a novel category termed "management," which seemingly contradicts traditional SWOT theory. However, this classification resolves the planning dilemma by shifting the focus to management rather than solely emphasizing finalistic areas. Consequently, these findings contribute to enhancing the quality of public management.