Awareness Efforts Research Articles

Understanding pregabalin misuse and dependence: Insights from a North Indian addiction treatment center

Background: Pregabalin, approved for various medical conditions, has shown increasing misuse potential globally. However, limited research exists on pregabalin dependence in India. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of pregabalin dependence among individuals seeking substance use disorder (SUD) treatment in North India. Methods: A cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted on patients enrolled between August 2022 and July 2023 at an academic institution-based addiction treatment center. Case records of patients with pregabalin dependence were retrieved and compared with controls with opioid dependence but no history of pregabalin use. Results: Among 3766 registered patients, 135 had pregabalin dependence (prevalence: 3.58 per 100 registered patients). Pregabalin-dependent patients were male, with a median usage duration of eight months and a median daily dose of 1200 mg. Most had concurrent opioid dependence, primarily heroin, used via the injection route. The odds of pregabalin dependence among those with opioid dependence were significantly higher than those with other substance dependence (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.13–1.85). Reasons for pregabalin use included opioid craving reduction, sedation, and euphoria. Patients with pregabalin dependence were more likely to have lower socioeconomic status (P < 0.0001) and urban residence (P = 0.032), an earlier age of substance use initiation (P = 0.02) and treatment seeking (P < 0.0001), and a higher co-occurrence of psychiatric disorders (P = 0.007) and less occurrence of alcohol dependence (P = 0.03). Conclusion: Findings underscore the need for heightened awareness, screening, and intervention efforts targeting pregabalin misuse within SUD treatment. Further research should focus on longitudinal studies to elucidate pregabalin dependence’s trajectory.

Increased Productivity of Regional Potential-based MSMEs through Partnership Development

The current existing condition in Labuhanbatu Regency, where the number and performance of SMEs are not yet competitive enough, especially in the digital market which currently holds significant influence in the buying and selling process of SME products. There is a need for further training related to digital transformation, considering that technology now plays a crucial role in SME development. This research aims to examine the average productivity index of SMEs in Labuhanbatu, the region's potential, and partnership strategies in Labuhanbatu Regency. The study employs average index analysis using a perception measurement scale of 1-7 on 81 SMEs in Labuhanbatu and 8 local government organizations, as well as a SWOT analysis. Based on the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats analysis, SMEs in Labuhanbatu have strengths such as optimized production, adequate local potential, support programs for SMEs, and fairly good SME skills. Weaknesses include limited production support equipment and inadequate marketing networks. Opportunities for SMEs include the growth of SME industries, supportive skills training programs, improved communication, ease of licensing processes, and non-burdensome taxes for businesses. Meanwhile, threats include unstable product prices, inadequate financial support from local government, and insufficient marketing awareness efforts by the local government.

Assessing Women's Knowledge and Awareness of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Study.

This study aimed to comprehensively assess the knowledge, awareness, and misconceptions regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among women in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 600 women aged 18-55 from various regions across the country. The findings revealed moderate overall STI knowledge, with gaps in understanding transmission routes (31.7%), recognizing symptoms (40.8%), and awareness of prevention methods (35.2%). Prevalent misconceptions included the belief that STIs can spread through casual contact (38%), only individuals with multiple partners are at risk (30%), and STIs are always symptomatic (32%). Demographic factors such as age, education level, and marital status significantly influenced STI knowledge, while residential area did not. Higher education, particularly bachelor's degrees and above, was strongly associated with better awareness. Digital platforms like the internet and social media emerged as significant sources of STI information. Undergoing STI testing, discussing STIs with partners, using protection, and receiving the HPV vaccine were linked to higher knowledge levels. This study highlights the need for targeted educational interventions, integration of sexual health education into curricula, training healthcare providers, community engagement, and leveraging digital platforms to enhance STI awareness and prevention efforts among Saudi women.

Growing Importance of Camel Milk in Human Health

Milk is considered as a complete food as it is rich in proteins, fats, minerals, and vitamins that are essential for human nutrition. Camel milk, a dietary staple in hot and arid regions for millennia, has recently gained attention for its nutritional richness and therapeutic properties. With a global camel population of 35 million, countries in East and Central Africa harbor the largest populations, with Ethiopia ranking second in production after Somalia. Beyond its significance in pastoralist communities, camel milk exhibits diverse health benefits, including anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Its unique chemical composition, including high levels of vitamin C, essential minerals, and protective proteins like lactoferrin, lactoperoxidase, immunoglobulins, and lysozyme, makes it a potential alternative to bovine milk. Camel milk lacks β-lactoglobulin, which causes allergic to cow milk proteins. Notably, camel milk's role in managing conditions such as diabetes, allergies, autism, cancer, tuberculosis, hepatitis, and arthritis. Moreover, its hypoallergenic nature and antimicrobial properties make it a promising functional food. Insulin-like proteins, which imitate insulin's role in controlling blood sugar levels and hence improve glucose uptake, contribute to its efficacy. Camel milk has cosmetic effects due to the presence of α-hydroxy acids, which help to plump the skin and smooth fine lines. Despite its importance, camel milk remains underappreciated, necessitating further research and awareness efforts to unlock its full therapeutic potential and promote its consumption. This paper aims to shed light on the diverse health benefits of camel milk.

Survey-based analysis of cybersecurity awareness of Turkish seafarers

In recent years, vessels have become increasingly digitized, reflecting broader societal trends. As a result, maritime operations have become an attractive target for cyber threat actors. Despite the limited cybersecurity training seafarers receive, they are expected to operate within technologically advanced environments. The importance of cybersecurity awareness is evident, but the extent of seafarers’ knowledge in this area remains uncertain. This article investigates three primary aspects: (1) the current state of cybersecurity onboard cargo vessels, (2) seafarers’ cybersecurity awareness, and (3) potential improvements in seafarers’ cybersecurity awareness. To accomplish this, a literature review is conducted to collect and analyze current research, supplemented by a questionnaire survey targeting Turkish seafarers. Our findings support increased investment in awareness and training programs, including organizational-wide cybersecurity awareness efforts, more frequent training, mandatory training for all seafarers through the Standards of Training Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW), and the appointment of a cybersecurity Officer (CySO) to ensure satisfactory cybersecurity levels onboard. Since this article focuses on high-level topics by assessing the general state of maritime cybersecurity and seafarers’ cybersecurity awareness, it does not delve into detailed considerations of awareness and training programs. Nevertheless, it lays the foundation for future research in this area.

Establishing an early warning event management system at Africa CDC.

Africa is home to hotspots of disease emergence and re-emergence. To adequately detect and respond to these health threats, early warning systems inclusive of event-based surveillance (EBS) are needed. However, data systems to manage these events are not readily available. In 2020, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention developed an event management system (EMS) to meet this need. The district health information software (DHIS2), which is free and open-source software was identified as the platform for the EMS because it can support data capture and analysis and monitor and report events. The EMS was created through a collaborative and iterative prototyping process that included modifying key DHIS2 applications like Tracker Capture. Africa CDC started piloting the EMS with both signal and event data entry in June 2020. By December 2022, 416 events were captured and over 140 weekly reports, including 19 COVID-19 specific reports, were generated and distributed to inform continental awareness and response efforts. Most events detected directly impacted humans (69%), were considered moderate (50%) to high (29%) risk level and reflected both emerging and endemic infectious disease outbreaks. Highly pathogenic avian influenza, specifically H5N1, was the most frequently detected animal event and storms and flooding were most frequently detected environmental events. Both data completeness and timeliness improved over time. Country-level interest and utility resulted in four African countries adapting the EMS in 2022 and two more in 2023. This system demonstrates how integrating digital technology into health systems and utilising existing digital platforms like DHIS2 can improve early warning at the continental and country level by improving EBS workflow.

Enhancing digital access and inclusion for SMEs in the financial services industry through Cybersecurity GRC: A pathway to safer digital ecosystems

This research paper explores the enhancement of digital access and inclusion for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the financial services industry by implementing Cybersecurity Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance (GRC) frameworks. It begins by analyzing the current state of digital access for SMEs, highlighting the significant benefits of digital transformation, including operational efficiencies, enhanced customer experiences, and new market opportunities. The paper identifies key barriers to digital access, such as cybersecurity risks, regulatory compliance challenges, financial constraints, and the lack of digital expertise. The study then reviews existing initiatives aimed at enhancing digital access for SMEs, including government programs, industry collaborations, cybersecurity awareness and training efforts, and fintech solutions. The paper argues that while these initiatives are beneficial, they often fail without a comprehensive GRC framework to address underlying security and compliance issues. A detailed conceptual model is proposed, comprising digital strategy and planning, a robust cybersecurity framework, effective governance and compliance practices, proactive risk management, continuous training and awareness, technological innovation, and collaboration and partnerships. Each component systematically addresses the identified barriers and facilitates a safer, more inclusive digital ecosystem for SMEs. The implementation of this model is outlined in four phases: initiation, implementation, operational, and evaluation, ensuring a structured approach to digital transformation. The paper concludes with recommendations for SMEs to adopt this model, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement, resource allocation, and continuous evaluation. Keywords: Digital Transformation, SMEs, Cybersecurity, GRC, Financial Services, Digital Access.

Refining the prevalence inflation hypothesis: Disentangling overinterpretation from self-fulfilling prophecies

The prevalence inflation hypothesis suggests that mental health awareness efforts can lead to an increase in rates of mental illness, first because awareness efforts encourage individuals with subclinical levels of distress to see their problems as mental illnesses (“overinterpretation”), and second because these individuals may then think and act in ways that promote actual mental illness (“self-fulfilling prophecy”). In this discussion paper, I argue that these two components are best understood—and best studied—as two distinct hypotheses. I present each hypothesis, discuss early evidence regarding each one, and outline the benefits of studying them independently.

Education of Clean and Healthy Living Behaviors for Students of UPT SPF SD Negeri 101900 Lubuk Pakam

Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) is behavior that is implemented in daily life based on initiatives originating from learning outcomes so that it can change individuals or groups so that they can play an active role in their health in society. School-age children are children who are in childhood, which is clearly in contrast to adulthood. During childhood, there are generally many health problems that are critical in determining the quality of a child's health in the future. Community service is the key to efforts to spread knowledge about PHBS. This community service was carried out for elementary school students in grades 4, 5, and 6 at SD Negeri 101900 Lubuk Pakam, as many as 100 people. This activity will play a role in raising students' awareness of implementing PHBS behavior and infectious disease prevention behavior at school. This activity is held through counseling, and public campaigns, where PkM will be able to increase understanding about washing hands before and after carrying out activities, brushing teeth, not littering, and not snacking carelessly. Evaluation of this activity is carried out through review activities by asking questions to elementary school students. The results of this PkM show that there has been a significant increase in awareness, knowledge, and prevention efforts in implementing PHBS at SD Negeri 101900 Lubuk Pakam. It is hoped that students will remain consistent in implementing PHBS in their daily activities.

THE EFFECT OF ALCOHOLISM ON THE DESTRUCTION OF RELATIONSHIP VALUES

The paper examines the impact of alcoholism on the values of family relationships and highlights the destructive consequences of alcohol abuse. The paper uses qualitative research methods and focuses on two distinct groups: middle-aged women from well-off families and children from children's homes who have experienced alcoholism from a family member. The paper reveals the pervasive consequences of parental alcohol abuse, such as low self-esteem, emotional instability and difficulties in establishing and maintaining healthy relationships. The findings highlight the urgent need for greater awareness and prevention efforts regarding the broader social and familial impacts of alcohol consumption. This research contributes to the understanding of relational dynamics in families affected by alcoholism.

Estimating the Burden and Distribution of Post-COVID-19 Condition in Washington State, March 2020-October 2023.

After SARS-CoV-2 infection, some people will experience long-term sequelae known as post-COVID-19 condition (PCC). Although PCC is recognized as a public health problem, estimates of the prevalence of PCC are sparse. We described a framework for estimating the incidence and prevalence of PCC by population subgroups and geography over time in Washington State. We collected data on reported COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations and estimated SARS-CoV-2 infections in Washington State from March 2020 through October 2023. The reported case data were incorporated with parameter estimates from published articles and prevalence estimates from the Household Pulse Survey into a mathematical compartmental model of PCC progression. The model used differential equations to describe how the population of people with PCC moved through the model's various stages. This framework allowed us to integrate data on age group, sex, race and ethnicity, vaccination status, and county to estimate incidence and prevalence of PCC for each subgroup. Our model indicated that 6.4% (95% CI, 5.9%-6.8%) of all adults in Washington State were experiencing PCC as of October 2023. In addition to temporal differences in PCC prevalence and incidence, we found substantial differences across age groups, race and ethnicity, and sex. Geographic heterogeneity was pronounced, with the highest rates of PCC in central and eastern Washington. Estimation of PCC prevalence is essential for addressing PCC as a public health problem. Responding to PCC will require continued surveillance, research, and dedicated financial and public health action. This analysis, accounting for heterogeneities, highlights disparities in the prevalence, incidence, and distribution of PCC in Washington State and can better guide awareness and response efforts.

Assessment of Waste Management Awareness and Practices among Par-ents: A Sequential Explanatory Study

This study explores parents’ awareness and practices on solid waste management. It shows the significance of solid waste segregation for parental involvement and how it influences parents' attitudes and behaviors in a barangay in Magalang, Pampanga. The parents benefit from this study by learning more about the practices and appropriate segregation within their community. In this study, which involved 100 parents, a mixed-method sequential explanatory technique was employed. The results indicate that parents are not aware of the relevant laws about solid waste management and the sources of information about it. In terms of practices, parents are productive at disposing of, reducing, and recycling solid waste, but they don't reuse and segregate the solid waste that much. Overall, the results highlight how crucial proper waste sorting, awareness-building, community involvement, resourcefulness, and sustainability are to improve waste management. Although there are challenges, such as a lack of awareness and inconsistent efforts, recycling and waste removal are mentioned as sources of satisfaction. Parents also emphasize the need for proper segregation, solid waste management regulations, and providing incentives to promote sustainable behaviors in the barangay.

Disposal of Sanitary Pads

The disposal of sanitary pads presents a pressing challenge due to social, cultural, and religious factors hindering menstrual hygiene management. Despite increased awareness efforts, improper disposal practices persist, leading to environmental contamination and health hazards. Sanitary pads, when discarded inappropriately, contribute to the spread of diseases and pollution, with their decomposition releasing microplastics and toxins into the environment. Urgent action, including the adoption of proper disposal methods like incinerators, is essential to address this issue and prevent future repercussions on public health and the environment.

Current studies of cerebral infarction

Cerebral infarction, also known as stroke, is a serious medical condition resulting from the interruption of blood flow to the brain, either due to blockage or rupture of blood vessels. This interruption leads to localized ischemia and oxygen deprivation in the brain tissue, causing hypoxic-ischemic cell death and subsequent damage to brain function. Cerebral infarction is a leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, particularly among the elderly, but recent research suggests that younger individuals are also increasingly affected. According to reports from the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases, including cerebral infarction, account for millions of deaths annually, posing a significant public health threat. The incidence of cerebral infarction among the younger generation is particularly noteworthy, with a significant proportion of patients aged 15-49 suffering from this condition. This trend underscores the need for greater awareness and prevention efforts across all age groups to address this global health challenge.

Komunikasi Interpersonal Sebagai Peran Bawaslu Mandailing Natal Dalam Mewujudkan Pemilu Yang Luber, Jurdil

The aim of this research is to provide an overview of the role of BAWASLU in realizing free and fair elections, as well as providing an analysis of how to hold a quality regional election by involving various stakeholders who have the same goal in making a fair regional election a success. This research uses the PAR method, namely Participation in Action Research, using two methods of data collection, namely observation and interviews. A total of 30 people were the subjects of the research, the 30 people were 5 BAWASLU Regency commissioners. Mandailing Natal and 25 sub-district supervisory officers spread across Mandailing Natal district. The results of this research are first, there is an effort from the BAWASLU commissioner of Mandailing Natal Regency to provide awareness to members of the sub-district supervisory committee in enforcing neutral post-conflict local election activities, so that there is an effort to continue to supervise post-conflict local election activities in a neutral manner. Second, there are monitoring and awareness efforts carried out by sub-district supervisory supervisors in providing education to always carry out neutral and balanced supervision to sub-district/village supervisory supervisors in the Mandailing Natal district.

How safety value is exchanged in Chinese modern megaprojects: A stakeholder value network perspective

To visualize and quantify these exchanges among primary stakeholders in megaprojects, this study introduces network stakeholder value network as the core methodology. Starting with a qualitative organizational safety behavior model encompassing 8 stakeholders and 61 value flows, it's built based on 3 organizational safety behavior categories. Moreover, questionnaire data from 356 experts quantifies the model, and the design structure matrix identifies 13845 safety value paths, including 4827 cycles. Analysis delves into critical cycles, stakeholders, flows, and organizational safety behavior types to refine safety strategies. The findings, based on Chinese megaprojects, suggest that contractors and governments must lead safety awareness efforts, with safety compliance paramount for all parties. The study's contributions are threefold: firstly, it broadens the scope to encompass organizational safety behavior; secondly, it introduces a novel approach to visualize and quantify safety value flows; and thirdly, it considers multiple types of value exchanges, underscores their significance in promoting safety value, and offers practical recommendations to strengthen construction safety performance.

Environmental and Social Implications of Mixed Land use in Zambia: A Case Study of Makeni Area, Lusaka

This study aimed to explore the Environmental and Social Implications of mixed land use in Makeni, Lusaka, focusing on three specific objectives: understanding the social implications, determining environmental impacts, and assessing the management of mixed land use in the area. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research incorporated both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis, utilizing secondary and primary data. The sample size of 385 participants included 375 occupants of commercial and residential properties in Makeni and 10 key informants from relevant environmental agencies. Findings indicated that mixed land use in Makeni had positive effects on housing prices, accessibility to social amenities, and property costs. It also contributed to improved road infrastructure and building quality, with limited evidence of increased social problems. However, diverse opinions among respondents suggested varying perceptions. Air sampling revealed concerning levels of carbon monoxide from industries, surpassing allowable limits, while noise levels exceeded WHO recommendations in residential areas. Water analysis was not conducted due to closed systems or lack of effluent discharge. Regarding the management of mixed land use, the study highlighted a lack of awareness among participants about implementation guidelines, indicating a need for increased awareness efforts. Some participants, however, were knowledgeable, suggesting potential advocates for knowledge dissemination. The study also revealed uncertainty among participants about challenges associated with mixed land use management, emphasizing the need for further exploration and understanding of these issues.

Analysis of Road Traffic Accidents in Dense Cities: Geotech Transport and ArcGIS

Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs) provide a substantial risk to both public safety and infrastructure within severe earthquake zones. This research aims to provide a thorough analysis of the many elements that contribute to RTAs in the area. Although research on RTAs has been conducted in numerous settings, there is a lack of localized research specifically focused on developing countries. Therefore, this study is necessary to address this gap in literature. Our study focuses on examining the distinct issues and elements that are particular to this specific location. The objective is to provide customized solutions that effectively reduce the occurrence of accidents. The objective of this study is to examine the status of RTAs, ascertain the main factors contributing to RTAs, and provide viable approaches to improve road safety. A comprehensive study of data was undertaken, which included the examination of key highways, accident-prone areas, and causes contributing to accidents. Insights were derived by the use of statistical analysis, hotspot mapping, and the categorization of incidents. The results revealed a distressing roadway are afflicted by a significant frequency of accidents, even those occurring on prominent thoroughfares. Excessive speed has been revealed as the primary contributing factor, closely followed by negligence and recklessness. The common factor seen in these events was the insufficient enforcement of traffic regulations. The research highlights several practical consequences. Firstly, it is advised to implement urgent actions such as the upgrading of the traffic database, the adoption of contemporary traffic management software, and the enforcement of rigorous traffic laws. The establishment of a comprehensive centralized database system is crucial in order to enhance the documenting and management of accidents. Furthermore, the use of cost-benefit analysis provides justification for the adoption of traffic calming measures in locations with a high incidence of accidents. Furthermore, the implementation of continuous road safety awareness efforts and the establishment of clear legislative guidelines pertaining to fatal accidents are imperative measures in promoting enhanced road safety.

Sustainable Consumption Patterns: Evaluating Consumer Preferences and Barriers in the Adoption of Organic Versus Conventional Agri-Food Products

Abstract This study delves into how consumers view and choose between conventional agri food items focusing on the factors that influence their purchasing decisions amidst growing concerns about climate change and sustainability. By gathering insights from a focus group of 21 individuals, the research uncovers a clear preference for products due to perceived health and environmental advantages. Consumers recognize the quality, taste and nutritional value of items, which justifies their higher price points. Nonetheless challenges like affordability, limited availability and lack of information pose obstacles to adoption. The paper underscores the importance of an approach to promote product consumption through government initiatives awareness efforts, education programs and cost saving production methods.

INFLAMMATORY MYOFIBROBLASTIC TUMOR OF THE MEDIASTINUM IN A PEDIATRIC PATIENT: A RARE CASE PRESENTATION AND MANAGEMENT REVIEW

Mediastinal tumors in pediatric patients encompass a broad spectrum of pathologies, ranging from benign to malignant entities. We present a case of a 10-year-old boy who initially presented with persistent back pain followed by nocturnal coughing, asthenia, and significant weight loss over a year. Upon admission, physical examination was unremarkable except for a mediastinal opacity noted on radiographic evaluation, leading to further characterization by thoracic CT scan, revealing a sizable right paracardiac mediastinal mass. Surgical excision was performed successfully, with en bloc resection of the mass adherent to the middle and lower lung lobes, and involving regional lymph nodes. Postoperative recovery was uneventful over a two-month follow-up period.Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT), a rare entity within the mediastinum Our case underscores the challenges in diagnosing and managing mediastinal IMTs, emphasizing the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving clinical suspicion, diagnostic imaging, and definitive histopathological evaluation.Continued reporting and study of such cases contribute to our understanding of this rare pathological entity, guiding optimal management strategies and long-term surveillance protocols for affected pediatric patients. This case report highlights the need for heightened awareness and research efforts to improve diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic outcomes for mediastinal IMTs in pediatric populations.