bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of worker population size-density by nest counting in the Asian weaver ant, Oecophylla smaragdina (Formicidae: Formicinae) and its dynamic in oil palm plantations industry
Authors: EXELIS MOISE PIERRE , ROSLI RAMLI , AZARAE IDRIS HJ , Sani Muhamad Shirwan Abdullah
Published: November 2022

Oecophylla smaragdina, arboreal ants in nature, is of economic interest in the Asian tropics for its potential as a low-cost biological control agent in commercial crops (cashew-nuts and recently oil palm trees). Population density-dynamics is fundamental in the study of control agents. In ants, such empirical data are scarce, considering their underground life where excavation destroys the colonies. Moreover, in the course of estimating the worker relative population size and density in a fixed area by nests counting, a population of O. smaragdina was investigated in oil palm plantations, to implement integrated pest management for controlling dominant bagworm defoliators. To minimize the estimation bias caused by the difference in nest characteristics, we analyzed the correlation of those variables to the nest contents. The models of the nest counting method found that the number of nests, the mean of total workers, and the number of trees (correlated with the occupied area) became the most significant variables in estimating the population density. No external nest characteristics was statistically significantly correlated with the number of workers. Hence, the total average worker number per nest, 6333+2907SE (52 undamaged nests, average mean total major-minor: 6332.55) multiplied by the total nest count is appropriate to estimate the relative population size and density of workers (over few million per colony in a fixed occupied area). Four absolute population-wide estimation of the worker density in four plantations was ensued. This study demonstrated the population dynamic stability of O. smaragdina with sufficient numerical resident ants by a long-term monitoring of the occurrence of incipient colonies. Controlling Metisa plana by such IPM might minimize the usage of broad-spectrum long-range contact life cycle disruptive chemicals on natural enemies’ balance in agro-ecosystems.
Prevalence and Reasons for Cancellation of Elective Dental and Maxillofacial Surgeries in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Alotaibi Faris , Alonazi Wadi
Published: November 2022

Objectives:
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and reasons for elective dental and oral and maxillofacial surgeries (OMFS) cancellations at a single, tertiary hospital, to determine whether patient demographics are associated with cancellations, and to describe the cancellation phenomenon.
Methods:
A retrospective record-based study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Riyadh from January 2017 to March 2020. For the final analysis, we included 2768 patients who satisfied the inclusion criteria. The descriptive statistics were obtained to investigate the prevalence of elective dental and maxillofacial surgery cancellations at a single, tertiary hospital; we then estimated the overall prevalence and reasons for cancellation across three categories: patient-related reasons, physician-related reasons, and organizational reasons. The Fisher's exact test was performed to evaluate if there were variations in the proportion of reasons for cancellation among participant characteristics and surgical specialties.
Results:
Out of 2,768 patients who were eligible for OMFS, Pediatric Dentistry, or Special Need Dentistry elective surgeries that have had appointments scheduled at the hospital between January 2017 through March 2020, only 144 patients have had their appointments cancelled. Overall prevalence of cancellation of elective surgeries (CES) is 5.2%. Physician-related cancellation of CES was the highest (66.43%) compared to patient-related (27.86%) and organization-related (5.71%) reasons.
Conclusion:
Although the CES rate was low compared to the rates reported worldwide, there are some important interventional processes that can help reduce the rate of CES and thereby improve economic efficiency and patient outcomes. Greater attention should be paid to quality improvement strategies, patient adequacy and organizational resources in the early stages of the preoperative period.
Die Wirkung des Mobilitätsdesigns auf die Nutzung und Wahrnehmung von Fahrradstraßen
Authors: Baumgartner Annabell , Fischer Lena , Welker Johanna
Published: November 2022

In Offenbach am Main wurde im Herbst 2018 eine Fahrradstraßen-Teststrecke eröffnet, die Teil des Vorhabens ist, die Stadt fahrradfreundlicher zu gestalten. Um herauszufinden, inwiefern das Design dieser Teststrecke einen Einfluss darauf ausübt, wie die Fahrradstraße von den Verkehrsteilnehmenden wahrgenommen und genutzt wird, wurden im Rahmen dieser Forschungsarbeit im Mai 2019 zwei Fokusgruppengespräche mit Nutzer*innen durchgeführt. In den Fokusgruppen wurden unter der Betrachtung der Fragestellung unterschiedliche Konzeptvorschläge der Offenbacher Hochschule für Gestaltung (HfG) thematisiert. In der Forschungsarbeit wird herausgearbeitet, wieso es sinnvoll ist, das Design der gebauten Umwelt näher zu betrachten und vor allem es gezielt zu verändern, wenn es darum geht, mehr Stadtbewohner*innen zum Fahrradfahren und hiermit zu einem umweltfreundlicheren Fortbewegen zu motivieren. Basierend auf den Ausführungen von JENSEN (2014, 2016) zum Mobilitätsdesign und unter Verwendung seines staging mobilities frameworks konnten die Erfahrungen der Teilnehmenden der Fokusgruppen ausgewertet und erste Aussagen über den Einfluss des Designs auf die Wahrnehmung und Nutzung der Teststrecke getroffen werden.
Auswirkungen verbesserter (Rad-)Infrastruktur auf die Lebensqualität der Anwohnenden - eine Vorher-Nachher-Untersuchung am Beispiel der Friedberger Landstraße in Frankfurt a. M.
Authors: Scheffler Clara , Trost Laura , Werschmöller Simon
Published: November 2022

Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war es, herauszufinden, in welcher Weise ein im Sommer 2020 durchgeführter Verkehrsinfrastruktureingriff an einer Hauptverkehrsstraße in Frankfurt zu einer Verbesserung der wahrgenommenen Lebensqualität der Anwohnenden beiträgt. Es wurde geprüft, ob der Wegfall einer Fahrspur für den motorisierten Individualverkehr (MIV) und der gleichzeitige Bau eines Radfahrstreifens einen positiven Effekt auf die Lebensqualität der Anwohnenden hat. Insgesamt wurden 445 Haushalte an der Friedberger Landstraße vor und nach dem Umbau befragt. Die Lebensqualität wurde in Bezug auf das Konfliktpotenzial und Sicherheitsempfinden im Verkehr, die Aufenthaltsqualität sowie den wahrgenommenen Lärm und die Luftqualität vor und nach dem Bau der Fahrradspur erhoben. Es zeigt sich, dass die wahrgenommene Lebensqualität nach dem Eingriff in fast all diesen Bereichen positiver bewertet wurde als vor dem Eingriff. Dies deutet darauf hin, dass die reduzierte Infrastruktur für den MIV und die gleichzeitige Errichtung einer Fahrradspur einen positiven Effekt auf die Lebensqualität der Anwohnenden haben.
Individuell mobil, gemeinsam befördert
Authors: Will Fabian
Published: November 2022

Im Zuge der fortlaufenden Digitalisierung im Mobilitätssektor werden aktuell besonders in Großstädten verstärkt geteilte on-demand Fahrdienstleistungen implementiert. Das sog. Ridepooling beschreibt eine dynamische und digitale Form des konventionellen Sammeltaxis, bei welcher durch eine intelligente Algorithmik mehrere voneinander unabhängige, zeitlich korrespondierende Fahrtwünsche in Echtzeit zu einer Route kombiniert werden. So können einander unbekannte Kund*innen gemeinsam und gleichzeitig nach ihren individuellen Bedürfnissen auf Direktverbindungen befördert werden. Viele der Ridepooling-Angebote werden in urban geprägten Raumstrukturen von privaten Verkehrsunternehmen - teilweise sogar eigenwirtschaftlich - betrieben und als nachhaltige Mobilitätsform beworben: Sie soll die sich individualisierenden Mobilitätsbedürfnisse der Bürger*innen befriedigen, dadurch städtische Problematiken wie hohe Luft- und Lärmbelastung, Staubildung sowie Flächenknappheit adressieren und zu einer umweltfreundlichen Verlagerung des lokalen Verkehrsaufkommens (Modal Shift) führen. Die vorliegende Arbeit untersucht am Beispiel der Großstädte Berlin und Hamburg, wie und unter welchen Zielsetzungen der unterschiedlichen Akteure die neuen Angebotsformen implementiert wurden und welche Auswirkungen sie auf die städtischen Mobilitätssysteme haben. Durch Expert*innen-Interviews mit städtischen Behörden, öffentlichen und privaten Verkehrsunternehmen, Verkehrsverbünden und Expert*innen für digitale und städtische Mobilität soll der aktuell noch geringe Forschungsstand über die Zielsetzungen, Formen und Auswirkungen von Ridepooling-Angeboten in städtischen Räumen um praxisnahe Betrachtungen und Erkenntnisse erweitert werden. Es kann angenommen werden, dass die unterschiedlichen Ausgestaltungen der untersuchten Angebote von ioki, CleverShuttle, MOIA und BerlKönig dabei durchaus voneinander differierende Effekte auf das Nutzungsverhalten der Kund*innen und die städtische Verkehrsgestaltung sowie deren ökologischen und sozialen Nachhaltigkeitsdimensionen haben.
Methodenbericht zur Akzeptanzuntersuchung verkehrspolitischer Maßnahmen zur Neuaufteilung öffentlicher Räume in Frankfurt am Main
Authors: Baumgartner Annabell , Klinner Nora , Kraus Monika , Mösle Marlene
Published: November 2022

Im Herbst 2020 wurden im Rahmen des vom Land Hessen geförderten LOEWE-Schwerpunktes „Infrastruktur – Design – Gesellschaft“ zwei Haushaltsbefragungen durchgeführt mit dem Ziel, die Akzeptanz und Wirkung verkehrspolitischer Maßnahmen zur Neuaufteilung öffentlicher Räume in Frankfurt am Main zu untersuchen. In der ersten (postalischen) Befragung (N = 853) wurden in den vier Befragungsgebieten Altstadt/Sachsenhausen-Nord, Nordend, Eschersheim und Bonames/Nieder-Eschbach mithilfe des Random-Route-Verfahrens Fragebögen verteilt. In der parallel dazu stattfindenden reinen Onlinebefragung (N = 1.422) wurden alle Frankfurter Stadtteile angesprochen. Ziel des Berichts ist es, die methodische Vorgehensweise der Erstellung, Durchführung und Auswertung der Erhebung zu beschreiben. Dazu werden die thematischen Schwerpunkte und Zielsetzungen der beiden Befragungen erläutert, die Vorgehensweise bei der Verteilung und Verbreitung der Befragungen und des Pretests sowie die Aufbereitung der Datensätze. Weiterhin werden der Rücklauf und die Repräsentativität der Stichproben analysiert und zuletzt potentielle Fehlerquellen thematisiert.
Lexicon-based sentiment analysis of medical data
Authors: Mammadova Masuma , Jabrayilova Zarifa , Shikhaliyeva Nargiz
Published: November 2022

The article explores the possibilities of applying sentiment analysis for the use of information collected in the medical social media environment in medical decision-making. Opinions and feedbacks of medical social media subjects (physician, patient, health institution, etc.) make media resources an important source of information. The information collected in these sources can be used to improve the quality of health care and make decisions, taking into account the public opinion. Researches in this field have actualized the application of artificial intelligence methods, i.e., sentiment analysis methods. In this regard, it segments the medical social media environment in accordance with user relationships, and shows the nature of the information collected on each segment and its importance in decision-making to improve the quality of medical services. The possibilities of applying the lexicon-based sentiment analysis method for studying and classifying the collected data are explained in detail. The open database cms_hospital_satisfaction_2019 by the Kaggle company is used, and the opinions collected from patients about the services provided by a specific medical center are analyzed. This study analyzes opinions using the Valence Aware Dictionary and Sentiment Reasoner lexicon and classifies them as neutral, positive and negative and the implementation of this process is described in stages. The importance of the obtained results in decision-making regarding the better organization, evaluation and improvement of the activity of the medical institution is shown
Green entrepreneurship and performance of small and medium enterprises in North-Central Nigeria
Authors: Mtswenem Achaku Mark , Kalu Agbeaze Emmanuel , Owoicho Ekoja Geoffrey , Asortse Sefa
Published: November 2022

Many countries worldwide make efforts to decrease environmental degradation and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) engage in such business operations. However, considering the Nigerian context, evidence on their impact is scarce. Therefore, this paper investigates the effect of green entrepreneurship on the performance of SMEs in North-Central Nigeria federal territory. A pre-test was conducted, and a descriptive cross-sectional questionnaire was used. The study examined 1,233 consenting randomly chosen respondents from six states and Abuja City in North-Central Nigeria. Simple linear regression was used to test the hypotheses. The findings demonstrated that green entrepreneurship can decrease the negative impacts of business activities on the environment and also ensure profitability. Moreover, green entrepreneurial innovative production and green entrepreneurial inclination significantly impact competitive edge (β = 0.806, t-value= 49.648, P = 0.000 < 0.05) and customer spending (β= 0.976, t-value= 51.315, P = 0.000 < 0.05), respectively. The study offers useful public information and experimental confirmation of environmental sustainability engaged in viable business activities.
Ṭarīqa Followers and Inner Peace: A Phenomenological Study of Naqshbandiyya-Khālidiyya Order in Indonesia
Authors: Qomariyyah Nurul , Saifuddin Ahmad
Published: November 2022

This paper aims to reveal the inner peace dynamics of followers of the Naqshbandiyya-Khālidiyya Order. It employs a qualitative approach with the phenomenological method and in-depth analysis to describe the followers' inner peace dynamics. Interviews and observations have been carried out to collect data. Data reduction, presentation, conclusion drawing, and verification are employed. This study reveals that reaching inner peace dynamics needs problem-solving. The second step is making the decision. The third step is finding the solution to solve the problems to find the right strategy for a particular situation. The fourth step is being patient by emotional restraint. The last step is embracing faith and self-efficacy in dealing with problems. Faith is obtained from dhikr as it will lead to remembering God. The stages and aspects of inner peace are different from Mujib and Mudzakkir's theory. In addition, this study found that internalizing the value of murshid and self-approach to God positively impact inner peace.Contribution: This article contributes to a new finding about the stages of achieving mental peace. So, everyone can seek peace of mind through these various stages. In addition, the Ṭarīqa can also optimize its role because the murshid is considered necessary for increasing peace of mind.
Ḥamzah Fanṣūrī’s Contextual Analogies: Wujūdiyya Teaching in Malay 16th Century
Authors: Miswari Miswari , Dahlan Abdul Aziz , Hadi W.M. Abdul
Published: November 2022

Abstract: This article aims to analyse the context of the analogies used by Ḥamzah Fanșūrī in teaching wujūdiyya doctrine in his work, Asrār al-‘Ārifīn. The importance of this study is to reveal how he easily taught complex metaphysical concepts in Sufism. He used objects easily recognised by the Malay community as analogies. This article is a literature study using an analytical-descriptive approach. This study found that the metaphors used by Ḥamzah Fanșūrī in teaching the relationship between singularity and plurality in ujūdiyya doctrine were clay and earthen vessels, sun and its light, wood and chess pieces, and sea and wave. In comparison, secondary analogies such as fruit, seeds, mirrors, people, rivers, stones, and iron were used to explain the various dimensions of wujūdiyya teachings. His approach is therefore easy to understand.Contribution: This article opens a new perspective in understanding Sufism, especially the wujūdiyya doctrine in Ḥamzah Fanșūrī’s teaching. The analogies used are easy to understand. The analogy proposed by Ḥamzah Fanșūrī can be used as a reference to reveal the metaphors used by other Sufis in teaching wujūdiyya.
Exercise to Combat the Effect of Insulin Resistance in PCOS: A Narrative
Review
Authors: Anwar Safa , Shikalgar Nigar , Ashraf Nida , Khan Rizwan
Published: November 2022

PCOS is a complex multigenic condition influenced by significant epigenetic and environmental variables, including nutrition and lifestyle. IR is found in roughly 80% of obese women with PCOS and 30–40% of lean women. IR is an impairment of insulin to mediate metabolism in skeletal muscle, adipocytes and liver. Following weight gain, the severity of IR in women with PCOS increases. IR affects many PCOS women who are not overweight, and minor weight loss improves clinical results in those with near-normal body weight. The effect of exercise on IS is optimized through glucose transport and metabolism. Exercise is the first-line treatment for PCOS. Moderate intensity (60–70% VO2max; comparable to 75–80% HRmax) and high-intensity aerobic exercise (heart rate >80%) improves IR in women with PCOS. These exercises are performed for at least 30 minutes per session and 3–5 days per week. A single bout of exercise (2–72 hours postexercise) can improve IS immediately. Exercise improves IS and glycemic management as well as helps in lowering the abdominal fat. Therefore, exercise performed on a regular basis can help improve insulin resistance in women with PCOS.
The Effects of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors (TKIs) in Monotherapy and with Add-on Treatments on Health-related Quality of Life of People with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: A Systematic Review of Randomized-Controlled Trials
Authors: Nardi Antonio E. , Sancassiani Federica , Barrui Vanessa , Kalcev Goce , Uras Veronica , Meloni Giulia , Marongiu Luigi , Tamburini Giorgio , Maleci Alberto , Quagliato Laiana A. , La Nasa Giorgio , Carta Mauro Giovanni
Published: November 2022

Background:

The era of establishing tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) changed the outcome and the course of this life-threatening malignancy. People suffering from CML have now a better prognosis and a longer life expectancy due to the development of TKIs, even if it requires long-term, often lifelong, treatments that are nonetheless associated with improved Health-related Quality of life (HRQoL). However, data on the effects of TKIs on HRQoL are not always systematic; sometimes the data have been obtained by studies different from RCTs, or without a clear definition of what HRQoL is. The main purpose of this systematic review is to summarize all randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) including HRQoL as main or secondary outcome in patients with CML treated with TKIs or with TKIs plus an add-on treatment.

Methods:

A systematic review has been conducted by searching the relevant papers in PubMed/Medline and Web of Science with the following keywords: “quality of life” OR “health-related quality of life” OR “QoL” OR “HRQoL” OR “H-QoL” AND “chronic myeloid leukemia”. Interval was set from January 2000 to December 2020.

Results:

40 papers were identified through the search. Out of them, 7 RCTs were included. All the studies used standardized measures to assess HRQoL, even not always specific for CML. 5 RCTs randomized subjects to 2 or 3 arms to evaluate the effects of TKIs of the first, second and third generation in monotherapy. 2 RCTs randomized subjects to TKI therapy plus an add-on treatment versus TKI therapy as usual. The results of all these trials were examined and discussed.

Conclusion:

All the included RCTs pointed out significant findings regarding the positive effects of TKIs on HRQoL of people with CML, both when they were used in monotherapy or, notably, with an add-on treatment to enhance TKIs effects.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with β-Thalassemia that Underwent Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Mulas Olga , Pili Ilaria , Sanna Marco , La Nasa Giorgio
Published: November 2022

Background:

β-Thalassemia major (β-TM) represents one of the most important hemoglobinopathies worldwide. Remarkable improvements have been achieved in supportive therapy based on blood transfusions and iron chelation, and nowadays, this approach is capable of assuring a long life in these patients in industrialized countries. The only curative treatment is represented by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, this treatment may be burdened by deterioration in the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL). This paper aimed to evaluate the role of HRQoL in transplanted β-TM patients with a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods:

PubMed database, Web of Science, and Scopus were systematically searched for studies published between January 1st, 2000 to September 2020. The following terms were entered in the database queries: β-thalassemia, HRQoL, and HSCT. The study was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement.

Results:

We identified a total of 33 potential studies. Among these, 10 were finally considered in the systematic review and 5 in the meta-analysis. Overall, good scores in the principal domains of HRQoL were reported by transplanted patients. These data were confirmed by results of meta-analysis that showed significant difference between transplanted and β-TM patients treated with conventional therapy in the physical and emotional dimension, with a medium effect size [d=0.65, 95% CI (0.29-1.02), z = 3.52, p =0.0004, I2=75%; and d=0.59, 95% CI (0.43-0.76), z = 6.99, p <0.00001, I2=0%, respectively].

Conclusion:

HRQoL is generally good in β-TM transplanted patients and may significantly contribute in deciding whether or not to transplant a β-TM patient treated with conventional therapy.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with β-Thalassemia Underwent Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Mulas Olga , Pili Ilaria , Sanna Marco , La Nasa Giorgio
Published: November 2022

Background:

β-Thalassemia major (β-TM) represents one of the most important hemoglobinopathies worldwide. Remarkable improvements have been achieved in supportive therapy, based on blood transfusions and iron chelation, and nowadays this approach is capable to assure a long life in these patients in industrialized countries. The only curative treatment is represented by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, this treatment may be burdened by deterioration in the Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL). The aim of this paper was to evaluate with a systematic review and meta-analysis the role of HRQoL in transplanted β-TM patients.

Methods:

PubMed database, Web of Science and Scopus were systematically searched for studies published between January 1st, 2000 to September, 2020; the following terms were entered in the database queries: β-thalassemia, HRQoL and HSCT. The study was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) statement.

Results:

We identified a total of 33 potential studies. Among these, 10 were finally considered in the systematic review and 5 in the meta-analysis. Overall, good scores in the principal domains of HRQoL were reported by transplanted patients. These data were confirmed by results of meta-analysis that showed significant difference between transplanted and β-TM patients treated with a conventional therapy in Physical an Emotional Function dimension, with a medium effect size (d=0.65, (95% CI (0.29-1.02) z = 3.52, p =0.0004, I2=75% and d=0.59, (95% CI (0.43-0.76) z = 6.99, p <0.00001, I2=0% respectively).

Conclusion:

HRQoL is generally good in β-TM transplanted patients and may give a significant contribute the difficult choice whether transplant or not a β-TM patient treated with conventional therapy.
Psychological Aspects, Physical Activity Levels and Overweight Concerns: A Cross-over Study of Brazilian Adolescents
Authors: Santana Kamila Souza , Junior Sidnei Jorge Fonseca , Queiroz Cássia , de Oliveira Aldair José , Machado Sergio , Neto Geraldo de Albuquerque Maranhão
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

This study aims to identify levels of anxiety, depression, body weight, and levels of physical activity, as well as to verify possible associations among these variables in Brazilian adolescents. It is a cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of 291 Brazilian adolescents aged 13 to 15 years old (13.75±0.80 years old).

Methods:

Researchers assessed students by filling out questionnaires of anxiety and depression symptoms, as well as the level of physical activity and checking anthropometric measures. Parametric and non-parametric statistics were used to compare groups divided by psychological, physical and overweight factors for boys and girls, adopting a significance level of 95%.

Results:

Results showed higher waist circumference and physical activity levels for boys (p<0.01) and higher scores for anxiety and depressive symptoms questionnaires for girls (p<0.01). In addition, a low prevalence of depression was observed in boys (0.69%/CI0.03-4.36). For anxiety and depression variables in males and females with and without overweight and physically active and inactive, there were significant differences between groups (p < 0.05), but not within groups.

Conclusion:

The identification of a higher prevalence of girls with anxiety and depression was observed in this study and reinforced this information already demonstrated in the scientific literature. In general, the prevalence of depression was low in boys, while the prevalence of overweight, sedentary lifestyle, anxiety and depression were higher in girls.
Psychological Aspects, Physical Activity Levels and Overweight Concerns: A Cross-Over Study of Brazilian Adolescents
Authors: Santana Kamila Souza , Junior Sidnei Jorge Fonseca , de Oliveira Aldair José , Machado Sergio , Neto Geraldo de Albuquerque Maranhão
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

This study aims to identify levels of anxiety, depression, body weight, levels of physical activity, as well as to verify possible associations among these variables in Brazilian adolescents. It is a cross-sectional study, with a convenience sample consisting of 291 Brazilian adolescents aged 13 to 15 years old (13.75±0.80 years old).

Methods:

Students were assessed by researchers by filling out questionnaires of anxiety and depression symptoms, as well as the level of physical activity and checking anthropometric measures. Parametric and non-parametric statistics were used to compare groups divided by psychological, physical and overweight factors for boys and girls, adopting a significance level of 95%.

Results:

Results showed higher waist circumference and physical activity level for boys (p<0.01) and higher scores for anxiety and depressive symptoms questionnaires for girls (p<0.01). In addition, a low prevalence of depression was observed in boys (0.69%/CI0.03-4.36). For anxiety and depression variables in male and female with and without overweight and physically active and inactive, there just were significant differences between groups (p < 0.05), but not within groups.

Conclusion:

The identification of a higher prevalence of girls with anxiety and depression was observed in this study and reinforces this information already demonstrated in the scientific literature. In general, the prevalence of depression was low in boys, while the prevalence of overweight, sedentary lifestyle, anxiety and depression were higher in girls.
Prevalence of Mood Disorders and Associated Factors at the Time of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Potocol for a Community Survey in La Manouba Governorate, Tunisia
Authors: Ouali Uta , Aissa Amina , Rjaibi Salsabil , Zoghlami Nada , Zgueb Yosra , Larnaout Amine , Zid Mejdi , Kacem Imen , Charfi Fatma , Moro Maria Francesca , Touihri Nadia , Melki Wahid , Aounallah-Skhiri Hajer , Nacef Fethi , Gouider Riadh , El Hechmi Zouhaier , Carta Mauro Giovanni
Published: November 2022

Aims:

The present survey aims to assess the overall mood disorder prevalence and identify associated socio-demographic and clinical factors in a Tunisian community sample, with special attention to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Background:

Mood disorders are one of the leading causes of all non-fatal burdens of disease, with depression being at the top of the list. The COVID-19 pandemic may have increased the prevalence of mood disorders, especially in Low and Middle-income countries (LMICs) and in vulnerable populations.

Objective:

1/ Assess point and lifetime prevalence of depressive and bipolar disorders as well as subthreshold bipolarity in a representative population sample of La Manouba governorate and assess treatment patterns for these disorders; 2/Study socio-demographic and clinical correlates of mood disorders 3/ Assess the association between mood disorders and quality of life 4/ Study the impact of the COVID-pandemic on the prevalence of mood disorders 5/ Assess coping mechanisms to the COVID-pandemic and whether these mechanisms moderate the appearance of mood disorders or symptoms since the beginning of the pandemic

Methods:

This is a household cross-sectional observational survey to be conducted in La Manouba Governorate in a sample of 4540 randomly selected individuals aged ≥ 15 years. Data collection will be carried out by trained interviewers with clinical experience, through face-to-face interviews and the use of the computer assisted personal interviewing approach (CAPI). The following assessment tools are administered:

Results:

Structured clinical Interview for DSM IV-TR (Mood disorder section and Screening questions on Anxiety), Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ), Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ), 12-item Short Form Survey (SF-12), the Brief-COPE, and a questionnaire about a headache. In addition, socio-demographic and clinical data will be collected.

Conclusion:

This will be one of the very few household surveys in a general population sample to assess mental health problems and COVID-19-related variables since the beginning of the pandemic. Through this research, we aim to obtain an epidemiological profile of mood disorders in Tunisia and an estimation of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their prevalence. Results should contribute to improving mental health care in Tunisia.
Psychological and Occupational Pressure among Teachers in light of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic and Coping Strategies
Authors: Al-Rashidi Anwar Hammad
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

This study aims to identify the level of psychological and professional stresses in light of the Coronavirus pandemic. It has adopted descriptive and analytical methodologies. Two scales are prepared: a scale for psychological and professional stresses and a scale for coping with psychological and professional pressures.

Methods:

The study sample consists of (608) female teachers at public schools in the Al-Kharj province.

Results:

The results have shown that the level of psychological and professional stresses has come with a moderate degree. It is found that female teachers have followed coping strategies with psychological and professional stresses to a large degree. According to the teaching experience variable, statistically, significant differences have been found in psychological and professional stresses in light of the Coronavirus pandemic. The differences are in favor of female teachers with experience of less than (5) years.

Conclusion:

However, there are no statistically significant differences according to the academic degree. It is recommended to arrange training courses for female teachers to develop remote teaching skills and using various technologies & applications in this field, especially in light of the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic.
New Perspectives in Psychopathology and Psychological Well-being by Using Forest Therapy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Caponnetto Pasquale , Inguscio Lucio , Triscari Sergio , Casu Mirko , Ferrante Alessandra , Cocuzza Dario , Maglia Marilena Maria
Published: November 2022

Background:

Forest therapy is the clinical application of Shinrin-Yoku, also known as forest bathing. Specifically, the term Shinrin-Yoku refers to what is known as “a bath in the air of the forest”, which is carried out by walking and observing the landscapes of nature. In recent years, ecopsychology has become increasingly interested in the use of forest therapy as a credible, eco-sustainable, and easily adaptable treatment. The idea is to borrow the typical techniques of mindfulness and apply them to environmental contexts to verify if this leads to a better physical and mental well-being of the individual. Given the few contexts in which forest therapy is applied, this article aims to investigate, through a review of available literature, the applications of forest therapy existing in various severe or mild disorders in order to understand if this technique can represent a credible alternative to traditional treatments, and consequently arouse the interest of future experimental research in different contexts.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted using the PRISMA 2020 guidelines that allowed us to identify n = 7 unique papers to be included in our analysis.

Results:

Forest therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment for improving a range of psychological and physiological parameters in college students, the elderly, women with postmenopausal insomnia, patients with alcoholism syndrome, patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), patients with chronic widespread pain, and psychiatric patients.

Conclusion:

The analyzed studies are not yet able to tell us if forest therapy is better than traditional treatments. However, the effectiveness demonstrated in the studies provides empirical evidence of the credibility of forest therapy and leads to new scenarios for more eco-sustainable, versatile, affordable, and adaptable therapies according to the needs of the patients.
Social and Behavioral Rhythms is Related to the Perception of Quality of Life in Old Adults
Authors: Carta Mauro Giovanni , Pintus Elisa , Zaccheddu Rosanna , Callia Omar , Conti Giuliana , Aviles Gonzalez Cesar Ivan , Minerba Luigi , Demontis Roberto , Pau Massimiliano , Cocco Eleonora , Penna Maria Petronilla , Kalcev Goce , Lorrai Stefano , Velluzzi Fernanda , Lovoselli Andrea , Monticone Marco , Massidda Maria Valeria , Pinna Maria Rita , Atzori Laura , Cauli Alberto , Scano Alessandra , Orrù Germano , Crisafulli Antonio , Cosentino Sofia , Machado Sergio , Fortin Dario , Migliaccio Gian Mario , Finco Gabriele , Musu Mario , Cossu Giulia
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

The purpose is to verify in old adults if social and behavioral rhythms (SBRs) are correlated with a positive perception of the quality of life (QoL). Social and behavioral rhythms and related circadian biorhythms are known as central points in the pathophysiology of bipolar disorders. A secondary aim is to see if a similar relationship can be found in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in old adults. Sample: 141 people aged ≥65 years (58.9% Female).

Methods:

Each subject was evaluated using the Social and Behavioral Rhythms Scale (in which higher scores show more dysfunctional SRBs); SF-12 for QoL and a screening tool for depressive symptoms. They underwent a medical evaluation and blood level assays including cholesterol and triglycerides. The medical diagnoses including MDD were taken into account.

Results:

The Social and Behavioral Rhythms Scale score correlated inversely with SF-12 score (p<0.001) and positively with PHQ9 (p<0.0001). People with MDD had a higher score on social rhythms than controls without (p<0.01). The study highlighted, for the first time, that social and behavioral rhythms have a role in old adults living in the community.

Conclusion:

Further longitudinal studies with a sufficient number of individuals will be required to confirm these data and clarify causal links of the association.
Mediating Role of Acculturation on Newcomer Employees Behavior and Performance of Mergers and Acquisitions Process: An Empirical Analysis of Indian Banking Sector
Authors: Jindal Priya , Mittal Amit
Published: November 2022

Introduction:

New ways of structuring, adopting new technology, and reshaping the role and responsibility in the banking operation have impacted the working conditions as well as the daily lives of bank employees. Acculturation is an emerging concept that may influence the short and long-term success or failure of any organization. Acculturation is firmly connected to Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) performance because it affects the banking sector’s business value and should be addressed after the merger.

Methods:

The current study is an attempt to examine the association between newcomer employee behavior and the performance of the M&A process, as well as the mediating effect of acculturation in this relationship. The sample size constitutes 303 newcomers banking employees who have joined the four acquired public sector banks after the mega-merger of six public sector undertaking banks on 1st April 2020. The research paper used CFA to examine the constructs' reliability and validity and used PLS-SEM to test the research hypotheses.

Results:

According to the statistical findings, new employee behavior and mergers and acquisitions performance were found to be significantly related at p-value < 0.001. Subsequently, acculturation mediates the relationship between newly joined employee conduct and large M&A performance.

Conclusion:

When a firm goes through the mergers and acquisitions process, they learn that cultural indigestion is a critical issue that influences employee behavior during the M&A process, which is often overlooked by senior management. The study finds out the post-merger problems and failures in the banking industry as a result of organizational culture differences.
Confirming The Validity And Reliability Of The Korean Language Fear Of COVID-19 Scale In The University Context
Authors: Lee Boram , Kim Yang Eun
Published: November 2022

Background:

The widespread of the newly emerged infectious human disease labeled coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a prolonged public health crisis of pandemic proportions. The emergence and severe consequences of COVID-19 heightened anxieties and concerns. The Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) was developed recently to specifically measure the fear sensed by an individual about COVID-19. This study aimed to establish the factor structure, reliability, and validity of the Korean version of the FCV-19S (KF-COVID-19S) in the context of a Korean university.

Methods:

Data were collected from 402 university students enrolled in undergraduate degree programs at a private university in the central region of South Korea. The sample was randomly bifurcated to execute exploratory factor analysis (EFA, N = 201) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA, N = 201). Cronbach’s alpha reliability coefficient was also applied to assess consistency.

Results:

Both the EFA and CFA supported a two-factor model: factor 1 (somatic symptoms) and factor 2 (emotional fear) were significantly correlated. Additionally, the two-factor model exhibited a superior fit to the data compared to the unidimensional and bifactor models. Cronbach’s alpha revealed acceptable internal consistency.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that the Korean version of the FCV-19S can multidimensionally assess the severity of fear of COVID-19. However, we recommend using the single FCV-19S total score for practical purposes, given the high correlation among factors, the robust reliability of the total scale, and items implying a higher order factor of the fear sensed by individuals toward COVID-19.
Preparedness of Professional Nurses Rendering HIV Healthcare Services to LGBTIQ+ People in Gauteng Province, South Africa
Authors: Mulemfo Desirée Morakane , Mavhandu-Mudzusi Azwihangwisi Helen
Published: November 2022

Background:

Access to HIV services by LGBTIQ+ individuals is the key to the Agenda for Zero Discrimination in Healthcare settings. As professional nurses are key drivers of HIV healthcare services in government/public settings, there is a need to understand their preparedness for rendering services to LGBTIQ+ individuals who can be considered dual marginalized because of HIV status and being gender or sexual non-binary. However, there is a scarcity of studies focusing on the preparedness of healthcare providers to render HIV services to LGBTIQ+ individuals.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the professional nurses’ preparedness in rendering HIV healthcare services to LGBTIQ+ people at public primary healthcare clinics in Gauteng.

Methods:

This qualitative study followed an interpretative phenomenological analysis design. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine participants recruited through criterion purposive sampling. The sample size was determined by data saturation. Data were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed, guided by the Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis framework for qualitative data analysis.

Results:

Findings indicate that professional nurses lack information regarding LGBTIQ+ communities. Furthermore, they have limited knowledge and skills for preventing and managing HIV in these communities. This is because of a lack of formal training about LGBTIQ+ people’s unique HIV conditions, specific socio-medical interventions, and necessary preventive materials.

Conclusion:

Lack of formal preparation of professional nurses regarding LGBTIQ+ individuals and their healthcare needs might hinder the achievement of the desired zero new HIV infections and zero HIV-related death. The researchers thus recommend the inclusion of LGBTIQ+ communities and their healthcare needs in the nursing curriculum and upscaling nurses to render LGBTIQ+-friendly healthcare services.
Current Research on Spray-Dried Chitosan Nanocomposite Microparticles
for Pulmonary Drug Delivery
Authors: Albetawi Saba
Published: November 2022

Using the pulmonary route for systemic and local drug delivery is an attractive method
of drug administration because it has a high alveolar surface area, abundant blood flow, a thin airblood
barrier, and low metabolic activity. In recent years, the evolution of inhalable chitosan nanocomposite
microparticles formulations enabled researchers to develop new pulmonary drug delivery
platforms that combine the advantages of microparticles and nanoparticles using a biocompatible,
biodegradable polymer with polycationic nature and inherent immunogenicity that enhances
cell targeting. Therefore, this review aims to offer an overview of the recent advances in inhalable
chitosan nanocomposites microparticles formulated in the previous five years in terms of primary
nanoparticles manufacturing methods; namely, ionic crosslinking of chitosan using tripolyphosphate,
electrospinning/electrospraying, layer-by-layer deposition, and nanospray drying; final microparticles
manufacturing techniques using spray drying, nano spray drying, and supercritical
assisted spray drying; in addition to the process optimization of the previously mentioned manufacturing
methods. Furthermore, this review highlights using chitosan and its derivatives in primary
nanoparticles preparation and as a polysaccharide to distribute the prepared nanoparticles in
microparticles. Finally, this review discusses the factors affecting yield, encapsulation efficiency,
in vitro aerosolization properties, size, morphological characters, in vitro release, and in vivo evaluation
of inhalable chitosan nanocomposite microparticles.
Error Analysis of Sine-Cosine Computation using CORDIC Algorithm
Authors: Nandoskar Aarushi , Parihar Narendra , Yadav Surya Prakash , Gupta Shrey , Sahu Shridhar
Published: November 2022

Background:

Coordinate Rotation Digital Computer (CORDIC) can be used for
computing trigonometric functions like sine and cosine for which it iterates over a for loop and
performs rotation of the input angle.

Methods:

On the basis of the condition, it decides addition and subtraction operations to compute
the sine and cosine values. In general, for each iteration in the CORDIC algorithm, it produces 1
extra bit of accuracy. This paper presents an in-depth survey of the many changes to the CORDIC
algorithm proposed over recent years. An efficient method to calculate the sine and cosine of an
input angle using the CORDIC algorithm with minimum hardware requirement is presented here.

Results:

CORDIC algorithm is implemented for 8 bits, 16 bits and 32 bits input and the average
percentage error obtained as the results are 1.67%, 0.003785% and 0.003290% respectively.

Conclusion:

It can be seen that by increasing the number of bits, the accuracy increases. For a
complete survey, discussions addressing the CORDIC algorithm are also presented.
Upaya Peningkatan Produksi Tanaman Padi (Oryza sativa Linn.) Varietas Rajasa-01 Melalui Integrasi Populasi Itik
Authors: Kusumaningtyas Sa'aprita , Suryanto Agus
Published: November 2022

Padi (Oryza sativa L.) adalah tanaman pangan pokok sebagian besar masyarakat Indonesia. Salah satu faktor penghambat yang mengurangi hasil padi hingga 50% adalah gulma. Saat ini gulma dikendalikan dengan cara manual, mekanis dan kimiawi yang membutuhkan tenaga kerja tinggi dan tidak ramah lingkungan. Sebagai alternatif, Sistem Padi Kompleks yang menggunakan itik untuk mengendalikan gulma dapat diterapkan. Tujuan penelitian yaitu untuk mempelajari pengaruh jumlah itik terhadap pertumbuhan dan hasil padi varietas Rajasa-01 serta pengaruhnya terhadap gulma. Penelitian dilaksanakan bulan Januari sampai Mei 2022 di Desa Sukorejo, Gondanglegi, Kabupaten Malang, Jawa Timur. Penelitian disusun menggunakan Rancangan Acak Kelompok 6 kali ulangan; D0: penyiangan manual; D1: 1 ekor per 20 m2; D2: 2 ekor per 20 m2; D3: 3 ekor per 20 m2. Variabel meliputi tinggi tanaman, jumlah daun, jumlah anakan, jumlah anakan produktif, Summed Dominance Ratio, berat kering gulma, berat gabah per rumpun, berat gabah kering panen per m2, berat kering total tanaman, dan berat 1000 butir. Data ditabulasi dengan Microsoft Excel, dianalis dengan tabel Sidik Ragam, dan menggunakan Beda Nyata Terkecil. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa semua variabel berbeda nyata kecuali berat 1000 butir. Penggembalaan itik sebanyak 2 ekor per 20 m2 menghasilkan gabah kering panen sebesar 620,51 g.m-2, sehingga meningkatkan produksi padi varietas Rajasa-01 hingga 36,65% daripada perlakuan penyiangan manual, 25,22% daripada penggembalaan itik 1 itik per 20 m2, dan sebesar 21,86% dibandingkan penggembalaan 3 itik per 20. Penggembalaan itik sebanyak 1000 ekor per hektar dapat mengurangi kerapatan populasi gulma dan waktu muncul gulma.