Digital Commons Network^™

The Association Between E-Cigarette Use And Community Mattering Among Adolescents In Maine, April Hughes

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

E-cigarette use among U.S. high school students is a significant public health issue. Factors such as mattering, sexual orientation, and gender identity (SOGI) influence e-cigarette use among adolescents, yet few studies have explored the relationship between mattering and e-cigarette use when considering SOGI. This quantitative study explored the association between past 30-day e-cigarette use and mattering among Maine high schoolers while controlling for SOGI and grade level. This correlational cross-sectional study used the 2023 Maine Integrated Youth Health Survey data, and the socioecological model served as the theoretical foundation. A multivariate binary logistic regression analysis indicated a significant association between …

The Effects Of Consumption Habits Of Vegetables Rich In Galactagogue On Breastfeeding Intensity, Nurul Fadhilah, Mohammad Zen Rahfiludin, Daru Lestantyo, Sri Winarni

Media Kesehatan Masyarakat Indonesia

Providing breast milk to babies becomes one of the keys to growth and development. Breast milk contains various crucial nutrients needed for the growth and development period of babies. To analyze the effect of consuming local vegetables containing galactagogues on breastfeeding intensity. This study was a cross-sectional study conducted at 38 Community Health Centers in Tasikmalaya Regency in 2024. The population was 5971 people. The sampling technique is proportional sampling. The study sample was 450 breastfeeding mothers. The independent variables were consumption behaviros of galactagogue vegetables, such as katuk leaves, moringa, spinach, young papaya, and banana blossoms. The dependent variable …

Personalized Postpartum Interventions And Their Impact On Working Mothers, Mey Elisa Safitri, Aniza Abd. Aziz, Nurulhuda Mat Hassan

Media Kesehatan Masyarakat Indonesia

Exclusive breastfeeding is a critical determinant in maintaining infant health and nutritional status. However, its coverage remains low, particularly among postpartum working mothers. Limited maternal knowledge, lack of family especially spousal support, and low maternal satisfaction are reported key factors contributing to suboptimal breastfeeding practices. This quasi-experimental study employed a non-equivalent control group pre-test and post-test design. It was conducted from January to October 2024 in the working area of the Darussalam Primary Health Center in Medan, Indonesia. A total of 140 postpartum working mothers were purposively selected and divided into two groups: intervention (n=70) and control (n=70). The intervention …

Evaluation Of Anthropometric Data Quality For Children From Electronic-Based Nutrition Surveillance: A Case Study In Magelang Regency, Central Java, Indonesia, Slamet Riyanto, Digna Niken Purwaningrum, Lutfan Lazuardi

Media Kesehatan Masyarakat Indonesia

Data quality regarding the nutritional status of children under five is crucial for developing strategies to address nutritional issues. This study aims to develop indicators and assess the quality of anthropometric data from community-based nutrition surveillance using the EPPGBM application in Magelang Regency. The research employed an observational design with a quantitative approach. Data quality indicators were defined based on expert consensus using the Delphi method. These indicators were also used to construct an anthropometric data quality index (IKDA). The WPS Office spreadsheet was utilized to assess data quality and perform IKDA calculations. Nine data quality indicators were identified, categorized …

Role Of Primary Healthcare Centers In The Prevention Of Overweight And Obesity, Safanah Ghassan Al-Chalabi, Eman Adnan Al-Kaseer

Hilla University College Journal For Medical Science

Background: About two-thirds of the population worldwide are obese or overweight, and if the current trajectory continues, 50% of the population will be obese by 2030. Community health centers and primary care providers are leading the charge against this epidemic.

Objectives: To report on sharing primary healthcare centers in the prevention of obesity via the knowledge, attitude, and practice of primary healthcare physicians.

Methods: A cross-sectional study, including analytical components was performed, involving a total of 224 primary healthcare physicians for the period 1^st Nov. 2024 to 1^st April 2025. In addition to demographic data, knowledge, attitude, and …

Comparing Individual Vs Mixed Treatments Of Chicken Bone Meal And Crab Shell Meal On The Growth Of Capsicum Annuum (Bell Pepper), Allthur Rudy R. Arroyo, John Rafael V. Capinia, Ethan Jude R. Reyes, Elnathan Jethro B. Sumalbag, Karl Benedict E. Viri, John Ray Cordova Estrellado, Kerry P. Cabral

Sinaya: A Philippine Journal for Senior High School Teachers and Students

The recycling of nutrient-rich food waste reduces reliance on synthetic fertilizers, enhances soil quality, and improves plant growth. Existing studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of food waste, such as bone meal (B) and crab shell meal (S), as fertilizers; however, their combined use has not been investigated. This study aims to evaluate the effect of varying proportions of B and S fertilizers on the growth of Capsicum annuum (bell pepper) employing a random complete block design with 10 treatments (pure B, pure S, and a 50:50 BS mix, each at 7 g, 14 g, and 21 g) plus a control …

Experiences Of Bukidnon Farmers On The Use Of Carbonized Rice Hulls (Crh) Waste From Biomass Boilers As A Soil Conditioner, Dash Constantine S. Chamen, Queen Loraine D. Ban, Michael Justin O. Eluna, Pole Honson B. Gabitano, Ian Jay P. Saldo, Jhovel Roy D. Calo

Sinaya: A Philippine Journal for Senior High School Teachers and Students

The long-term use of agricultural products that adversely affect soil is a significant issue for farmers. This study explored the potential of carbonized rice hulls (CRH) waste from biomass boilers as a sustainable soil conditioner. The research investigated the specific soil conditioning properties of CRH and explored the lived experiences of nine (9) Bukidnon farmers to correlate their observations with the material’s chemical profile. The composition analysis identified a high silica content and essential micronutrients, such as calcium and magnesium, which act as nutrient restorers and pH regulators. The thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews, four themes emerged to summarize the …

Health Workers’ Perspectives On Family Medicine And Family Physicians In Karbala City, Iraq, Haneen Nadhim Jawad, Ali Abdulridha Abutiheen, Hasan Alwan Baiee, Salam Sahib Obiad

Hilla University College Journal For Medical Science

Background: The opinions and experiences of health workers can provide valuable insights into the current state of family medicine and its potential to improve healthcare services in any country, including Iraq.

Objectives: To identify health workers’ perceptions in Karbala Governorate regarding the role of family medicine and family physicians, and to explore their opinions on the performance of primary health care centers.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was carried out from March through May 2024, involving health professionals from various health service settings in Karbala Governorate, Iraq. Data were collected through a structured, self-administered validated questionnaire covering demographic …

Assessment Of Serum Levels Of Na, K, Mg, Fe+2, And Se As Potential Risk Markers In Women With Breast Cancer, Fatima Hussein Mahdi, Muthana Saleh Mashkour, Seyed Omid Ranaei Siadat, Hanaa Addai Ali, Abdulkadhim A. Hawi

Hilla University College Journal For Medical Science

Background: Breast cancer is a malignant neoplasm characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of breast epithelial cells, with potential for metastasis.

Objectives: To follow the change in the level of trace elements (TEs) and the extent to which these changes are related to the risk of breast cancer before taking chemotherapy or removing the tumor.

Materials and Methods: The case-control group had 90 Iraqi women with newly diagnosed breast cancer, alongside 90 healthy women who were matched for age and body mass index. Elements and electrolytes in the serum, such as iron, sodium, potassium, magnesium, and selenium, were measured using a spectrophotometer. …

Relationship Of Prolonged Exclusive Breastfeeding To Infant Anemia, Maryam M. Ahmed, Aveen S. Shareef, Farhad S. Armishty, Dunya P. Nizar, Ronahi Y. Ibrahim, Lina Y. Mohammed, Snor H. Husain, Berivan R. Rajab, Omar Khatab, Dalal A. Jameel, Amna A. Omar, Iman H. Yaseen, Hevy A. Ahmad

Journal of King Abdulaziz University: Medical Sciences

Background: Anemia can adversely affect cognitive development in infants and children, potentially leading to challenges in cognition, motor control, social interaction, and neurophysiological functioning. Full-term infants do not develop iron deficiency anemia within the first four months of life, as they are born with sufficient iron stores accumulated during their intrauterine life. These stores are usually adequate for four to six months of postnatal life. However, exclusive breastfeeding beyond six months without iron supplementation can increase the risk of iron deficiency anemia, as breast milk does not provide enough iron to meet the growing infant’s demand. The American Academy of …

An Arabic Version Of The Intuitive Eating Scale-2: Translation And Validation Among The Saudi Population, Eram Albajri, Manal Naseeb

Journal of King Abdulaziz University: Medical Sciences

Background: Eating is a complex behavior in humans, shaped by an interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors. Tools like the Intuitive Eating Scale-2 (IES-2) offer valuable insights into eating behaviors, but their effectiveness depends on cultural and linguistic adaptability.Objective: In this study, we translated the IES-2 into Arabic and validated its psychometric properties among a large Arabic-speaking sample in Saudi Arabia.Methods: The IES-2 was translated using the forward-backward translation approach. The final translated version was distributed online to a convenient sample of the Saudi population. Exploratory factor analysis was performed to examine the construct validity of the …

Impact Of A Nutrition Education And Counseling Program On Diet, Lifestyle, And Cardiometabolic Health In Adults With Overweight And Obesity: A Non-Randomized Controlled Trial, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Eram Albajri, Elham Aljaaly, Abeer Aljahdali, Manal Naseeb, Mai Khatib, Nahlaa Khalifa, Nagat E. Eltoum, Aisha Y. Hussein

Journal of King Abdulaziz University: Medical Sciences

Background: Obesity is a global health issue attributed to changes in dietary habits and inadequate physical activity.Objective: This research aimed to assess the effectiveness of the nutrition counseling and education program on dietary habits, physical activity, and biomarkers among adults.Methods: This non-randomized controlled trial was conducted over 30 days in a primary care setting. Participants were grouped according to whether they chose to join the intervention program (n = 40) or maintain their regular diet (n = 20). The intervention group received personalized meal plans, recipes, and physical activity recommendations in line with the Saudi guidelines for obesity …

Awareness And Misconceptions About Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors And Related Behaviors Among Medical Students And Interns In Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Waad S. Alhumaidi, Abdullah M. Alagha, Mariyam A. Aljadani, Faisal A. Almahyawi, Shahad S. Balubaid, Abdelrahman M. Attia, Shimaa M. Yousof

Journal of King Abdulaziz University: Medical Sciences

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide, making awareness of its risk factors and the adoption of healthy behaviors critical, especially among future healthcare professionals. This study aimed to assess awareness of CVD risk factors, misconceptions, and health-related behaviors, in addition to the relationship between academic year and CVD awareness among medical students and interns at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah City.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 381 medical students and interns. Participants answered questions about CVD risk factors, health behaviors, and the sources of information. A linear regression analysis was performed to explore …

Assessment Of Microplastic Pollution In Economically Significant Fish Species From Libya’S Northeastern Mediterranean Coast, Mousa Kateesh, Tarek A. Temraz, Rafat Afifi Khattab

Journal of King Abdulaziz University: Marine Science

Microplastic pollution in marine ecosystems has become a pressing global environmental issue. However, there is limited information on the distribution of microplastics in Libyan territorial waters. This study investigates plastic waste pollution in five commercially important fish species from various marine habitats along the eastern Libyan coast (Ain El-Ghazala, Sousa, Ras Hilal, Alhaniyah, and Alhamama). A total of 75 fish specimens were collected, comprising 15 individuals from each species. The findings revealed that 38% of the sampled fish had ingested plastic debris, with microplastics being the predominant form. The Sousa region exhibited the highest contamination rate (54.46%), while Alhaniyah had …

New Fish-Based Multimetric Index For Appraising Shatt Al-Arab Ecological Quality, Laith Faisal Lazem

Journal of King Abdulaziz University: Marine Science

In recent years, there has been a growing need to develop biometric indicators that accurately reflect an area’s environmental quality and biological integrity. Various indicators have been developed and analyzed, focusing on functional, ecological, and organism-based indicators, particularly fish-related ones. The purpose of the current paper is to create the first fish-based multimetric index designed to evaluate the quality of water in the Shatt Al-Arab River (SAAR), known as Shatt Al-Arab Fish Index (SFI), which can also be applied to the Qarmat Ali River and other water bodies similar to the SAAR ecology. Data was collected from three stations along …

Food Apartheid And The Retail Food Environment In The Bronx, Aissatou Barry

CUNY Mexican Studies Institute

This project examines the structural mechanisms that contribute to unequal food access, both historical and ongoing, in the South Bronx, and applies the food apartheid framework created by Bronx food activist Karen Washington. This paper applies the framework to two food retail initiatives in NYC: the New York State Regional Hub and the New York City FRESH food program to assess whether their policies address the structural mechanisms that contribute to food inequality. I ask: How does the unequal distribution of healthy food access in the Bronx reflect broader patterns of racial and economic exclusion? To what extent do current …

Global Preferences And Determinant Variables Of Caesarean Delivery Among Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis, Mitiku Tefera, Lijalem Jemberu, Eyob Getachew, Getnet Alemu Andarge, Kedir Seid, Gebeyehu Lakew, Amlaku Nigusie Yirsaw, Eyob Ketema Bogale

Sultan Qaboos University Medical Journal

A caesarean section (CS) is a lifesaving procedure. With rising rates, women’s delivery choices have become a global concern. This review assesses global CS preference and determinants. A search of 6 databases was conducted (PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, Google Scholar and Maternity and Infant Care) in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, including papers published between 2013 and 2024. Egger’s test and funnel plot assessed publication bias, while the I2 statistic and Cochrane Q-test evaluated heterogeneity. Subgroup analysis considered sample size, publication year and economic condition. Initially, 73 articles were identified, of which 13 were deemed suitable, with a total sample size …

Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis) And Cognitive Health: A Systematic Review Of Mechanisms, Clinical Evidence, And Neuroprotective Potential, Elisha Rosalyn Rosdah, Eka Febri Zulissetiana, Irfannuddin Irfannuddin

Folia Medica Indonesiana

Cognitive decline, often a precursor to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, is a growing global health challenge. Green tea (Camellia sinensis), rich in bioactive compounds such as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) and L-theanine, has demonstrated promise in supporting cognitive function and reducing cognitive decline. This systematic review evaluated the recent evidence on the effects of green tea on cognition and its underlying mechanisms. The authors conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, SpringerLink, and ScienceDirect for open-access articles published between January 2020 and April 2025. This systematic review included studies examining the impact of green tea on cognitive function in humans and …

Environmental Science And Sustainable Development: Behavioral Transformation To Knowledge System Integration For Sustainability Action, Ahyahudin Sodri, Herdis Herdiansyah

Journal of Environmental Science and Sustainable Development

Sustainability issues are now a global concern. However, knowing the root causes of problems and the target is not the only factor that constantly motivates change for the better (Wamsle & Osberg, 2022) as such change also requires encouragement from actors, including individuals, organizations, and communities. Therefore, the human aspect is crucial for the successful achievement of sustainability (Hariram et al., 2023). In other words, questions on sustainability are not just about "what should be done?" and also on “how to get people to do it?” and “why are currently available interventions not yet fully utilized?” …

Diagnostic Significance Of Aspartate Transaminase And Alanine Transaminase In Hepatitis C Patients, Mohammed N. Fenjan, Ahmed Abdulhadi Jabbar

AUIQ Conference Proceedings

Background: Hepatitis C infection is spreading worldwide at an alarming rate. Hepatitis C is a viral infection that affects the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis C virus and can lead to liver damage, cirrhosis, and even liver cancer if left untreated. The virus is usually spread through contact with infected blood, such as through sharing needles or receiving a blood transfusion, antiviral medications can be used to treat the infection. AST (aspartate aminotransferase) and ALT (alanine aminotransferase) are enzymes that are primarily found in liver cells. The present study aimed to assess the relationship between liver enzymes aspartate …

Utilization Of Biochar From Date Palm For Wastewater Treatment Technologies: Mini-Review, Atheel Alwash, Emad Yousif, Salam Mohammed

Al-Mustaqbal Journal of Sustainability in Engineering Sciences

Recently, recycling agricultural waste has gained great importance in the field of the biochar industry, as it is a sustainable and inexpensive material that can be used to get rid of environmentally polluting materials. Dates are one of the major agricultural wastes in Iraq and the Gulf countries, which include fronds, seeds, and trunks. The challenge of obtaining a green and clean environment is represented by the safe disposal of these residues. These wastes are promising materials for producing biochar products as efficient adsorbents with improved characteristic properties. The present article revises the synthesis of biochar derived from date palm …

Emotional Regulation Among Single Mother Teachers In Elementary Schools, Dewi Fortuna Septiantika, Alif Mu’Arifah

Buletin Konseling Inovatif

Single mother teachers face great challenges in carrying out dual roles as educators and caregivers, while also handling household chores. This pressure often affects their emotional stability, so that single mother teachers often vent their anger on those around them. The purpose of this research was to determine the description and factors causing single-mother teachers' emotional regulation. Used a qualitative research method with a phenomenological study approach. Used semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation as a data collection method. The subjects in the research were taken using purposive sampling techniques and snowball sampling techniques. The subjects of the research were five …

Evaluation Of Chicken Serum And Chicken Egg Yolk As Novel Supplements For The In Vitro Cultivation Of Mycoplasma Hyorhinis, Yi-Chia Li, Sin-Hang Ma, Wei-Hao Lin, Chao-Nan Lin, Ming-Tang Chiou

The Thai Journal of Veterinary Medicine

Mycoplasma hyorhinis is a significant pathogen in swine, yet its fastidious nutritional requirements present challenges for in vitro cultivation. Conventional supplements like horse serum (HS) often suffer from batch variability and potential inhibitors. This study aimed to evaluate chicken serum (CS) and chicken egg yolk (CY) as novel alternatives to develop a reliable cultivation method for M. hyorhinis. Five clinical isolates were cultured for 10 days in a basal medium supplemented with CS or CY at 10%, 20%, or 30%, with 30% HS as the control. Growth was quantified daily using a Color Changing Unit (CCU) assay. CS supported …

Reapproaching International Law Through Twail: Reclaiming Marine Sovereignty And Rights Of The Global South Within Law Of The Sea, Ria Wierma Putri, Febryani Sabatira, Orima Melati Davey, Afandi Sitamala

Padjadjaran Jurnal Ilmu Hukum (Journal of Law)

Third World Approaches to International Law (TWAIL), also understood as a theory of decolonizing international law, offers a critical framework for analyzing the historical evolution of international law and its continuing impact on Global South nations. This article examines TWAIL's perspective within the Law of the Sea, with particular attention to the ways in which the dominance of marine resource use by industrialized states perpetuates structural inequities over less powerful states. Since the 1950s, TWAIL scholars have emphasized the importance of amplifying Global South voices to challenge entrenched colonial legacies and reshape the future of international law. The purpose of …

Enhancing Seed Germination In Ceratonia Siliqua L.: Comparative Effects Of Scarification, Chemical, And Hormonal Pre-Treatment, Adel Sultan Alhjami, U. A. Humaid

Journal of King Abdulaziz University: Meteorology, Environment and Arid Land Agriculture

This study investigated effective methods to overcome seed dormancy in Yemeni carob through comparative analysis of 14 pre-sowing treatments, including chemical scarification with sulfuric acid, hot water soaking, and GA3 priming in addition to mechanical scarification. The experiment followed a completely randomized design and was analysed using ANOVA and LSD tests (p ≤ 0.05). The 20-minute sulfuric acid treatment (T5) was optimal, achieving 100% germination, the shortest germination time (4.0 days), the highest vigor index (13.3), and the longest seedling length (13.4 cm). The 10-minute acid treatment (T4) also performed well, resulting in 83.3% germination and a high vigor …

Comparative Competitiveness Of Ugandan And Ethiopian Coffee In International Markets, Aaron Ecel, Robert Muwanga, Bob Ssekiziyivu, Oliver Nakanwagi

Business Management Review

Purpose: This study compares the global competitiveness of Ugandan and Ethiopian coffee exports, analyzing export performance, market dynamics, and structural determinants to inform policy interventions.

Design/Methodology/Approach: Using quantitative analysis of 2012-2023 trade data from UN Comtrade and ITC Trade Map, we apply Constant Market Share Analysis (CMSA) and Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) metrics.

Findings: Uganda demonstrated stronger growth in export value (156% from 2012–2023) and quantity (7% annual growth), driven by commodity composition effects (72.8%). However, its lower unit values ($2,578/unit) reflect reliance on bulk Robusta exports. Ethiopia, despite stagnant volume growth, commands premium prices ($5,186/unit) due to specialty Arabica …

An International Approach To Homelessness. Part I: The Case Of India., Pranit Lanjewar, Jaroslaw Richard Romaniuk

Faculty Scholarship

This paper, the first in a two-part study on homelessness in developing countries, explores the causes of homelessness in countries with significant populations living in poverty. This instalment focuses primarily on homelessness in India. The country’s diversity in terms of culture and religion is reflected in challenges when approaching issues related to homelessness. We highlight governmental initiatives to combat homelessness and provide impoverished people and families with access to essential services. A qualitative research method was used. We interviewed the recipients of government services aimed at helping their families overcome homelessness. Our findings highlight the role of education and educational …

A Rare Culprit Or An Elusive Culprit In Disguise? Unraveling Wild-Type Attr Cardiac Amyloidosis In Heart Failure With Reduced Ejection Fraction, Jose J. Loayza Pintado, Taiwo Ajani, Daniela Hernandez, Everardo Cobos

School of Medicine Publications

Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) is a rare disorder caused by the deposition of abnormal proteins called amyloid in the myocardium, leading to dysfunction. The 2 most common forms of amyloidosis are AL (light chain) and ATTR (transthyretin). Diagnosing amyloidosis is challenging, especially in its early stages, due to its nonspecific symptoms and overlap with other conditions. Recent studies suggest that the incidence of wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis is rising, likely due to improved diagnostic techniques and an aging population. We present the case of a 72-year-old male with lower extremity edema, progressive shortness of breath, and worsening renal function. He had a …

Environmental Health Risks To Children In Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review Of Evidence And Gaps In Global Interventions, Tadius C. Chitambwe, Dewi Susanna

Jurnal Epidemiologi Kesehatan Indonesia

Sub-Saharan Africa’s (SSA) children experience a disproportionate burden of environmental health risks, contributing to over half of global under-five deaths despite representing only 27% of live births ¹. This scoping review synthesised evidence from sixty-seven (67) eligible studies (2010–2025) to map out environmental exposures affecting children (0–18 years) in Sub-Saharan Africa, and to identify gaps in global interventions. Included studies focused on children (0-18 years) in SSA, addressed one or more of the four predefined environmental exposure domains (air pollution, WASH, toxic chemicals, climate-related risks), and reported on child health outcomes or interventions. Guided by the PRISMA and Arksey …

Kejadian Luar Biasa Gondongan Di Sd Islam X Samarinda, 2024, Rudy Agus Riyanto, Irfansyah Baharuddin Pakki, Mela Sabena, Meli Pasiakan, Erlina Erlina, Rima Andriani

Jurnal Epidemiologi Kesehatan Indonesia

Mumps outbreaks are a public health issue that still frequently occur in elementary school settings, particularly among children with low immunization coverage. Therefore, a comprehensive epidemiological understanding is needed as a basis for control. This research aims to describe the epidemiological picture and causative factors of the mumps outbreak that occurred at Islamic Elementary School X in Samarinda City in 2024, using a case series design. The outbreak occurred from April to October 2024, while epidemiological data collection and case verification were conducted from December 2nd to 8th, 2024. The analysis uses surveillance data, field observations, and questionnaires administered to …