bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diabetes-specific complete smoothie formulas improve postprandial glycemic response in obese type 2 diabetic individuals: A randomized crossover trial
Authors: Mongkolsucharitkul Pichanun , Pinsawas Bonggochpass , Surawit Apinya , Pongkunakorn Tanyaporn , Manosan Thamonwan , Ophakas Suphawan , Suta Sophida , Pumeiam Sureeporn , Mayurasakorn Korapat
Published: October 2023

Background High-protein, low-carbohydrate enteral formulas (EN) can improve glycemic control in individuals for individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in ambulatory care. This study aimed to compare newly developed diabetes-specific complete smoothie formulas with a standard diabetes-specific nutritional formula (DSNF) regarding their effects on glucose homeostasis, insulin levels, and lipid metabolism in obese T2DM patients.
Methods We conducted a randomized, double-blind, crossover study with 41 obese T2DM participants. Two smoothie formulas were developed from locally available Thai products as experimental products: soy-based smoothie drinks (regular smoothie drink; SM, smoothie with modified carbohydrate content; SMMC) containing high protein and low disaccharides (28-39% carbohydrate, 24-28% protein and 37-44% fat). We compared them to the standard DSNF, Glucerna, with its typical composition (38% carbohydrate, 18% protein, and 33% fat). Glycemic and insulin responses were assessed after participants consumed 300 kilocalories of each formulation, randomly on three separate days with a 7-day gap between. Postprandial effects on glucose, insulin, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), triglycerides (TG), C-peptide, and glucagon were measured at baseline and at 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, and 240 minutes.
Results SMMC resulted in significantly lower glucose area under the curve (AUC0-240) compared to Glucerna and SM (P<0.05 for both). Insulin AUC0-240 after SMMC was significantly lower than after SM and Glucerna (P<0.05). During the diets, the suppression of NEFA was more augmented on SM, resulting in a less total AUC0-240 of NEFA compared to the SMMC diet (P<0.05). C-peptide AUC0-240 after SMMC was significantly lower than after Glucerna (P<0.001). Conversely, glucagon AUC0-240 after SMMC was significantly higher than after SM and Glucerna (P<0.05).
Conclusions These results demonstrated that SMMC was the better insulin-sensitive formula among the three formulas of the same caloric level. This effect may be achieved by either through increased insulin secretion or direct reduction in glucose absorption. The positive effects are likely related to their unique composition of carbohydrates, amino acids, and fats from natural ingredients in the smoothies. These smoothies may be a promising functional food for the management and supplementation for diabetes and obesity.
Modulation of subthalamic beta oscillations by movement, dopamine, and deep brain stimulation in chronic recordings of Parkinson’s disease patients
Authors: Mathiopoulou Varvara , Lofredi Roxanne , Feldmann Lucia K. , Habets Jeroen , Darcy Natasha , Neumann Wolf-Julian , Schneider Gerd-Helge , Faust Katharina , Kühn Andrea A.
Published: October 2023

Subthalamic beta band activity (13-35 Hz) is known as a real-time correlate of motor symptom severity in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and is currently explored as a feedback signal for closed-loop deep brain stimulation (DBS). Here, we investigate the interaction of movement, dopaminergic medication, and deep brain stimulation on subthalamic beta activity in PD patients implanted with sensing-enabled, implantable pulse generators. We recorded subthalamic activity from seven PD patients at rest and during repetitive movements in four conditions: after withdrawal of dopaminergic medication and DBS, with medication only, with DBS only, and with simultaneous medication and DBS. Medication and DBS showed additive effects in improving motor performance. Distinct effects of each therapy were seen in subthalamic recordings, with medication primarily suppressing low beta activity (13-20 Hz) and DBS being associated with a broad decrease in beta band activity (13-35 Hz). Movement suppressed beta band activity compared to rest. This suppression was most prominent when combining medication with DBS and correlated with motor improvement within patients. We conclude that DBS and medication have distinct effects on subthalamic beta activity during both rest and movement, which might explain their additive clinical effects as well as their difference in side-effect profiles. Importantly, subthalamic beta activity significantly correlated with motor symptoms across all conditions, highlighting its validity as a feedback signal for closed-loop DBS.
Guided atrial fibrillation ablation combined with left atrial appendage occlusion by fluoroscopy alone: a propensity-matched study
Authors: Luo Yang , Gao Bin , Qin Xutang , Wang Yan , Yin Jinlei , Li Bin , Zhao Yujie
Published: October 2023

Objective
Assessing the Efficacy, Safety, and Economic Analysis of Transcatheter Closure of Left Atrial Appendage with Guidance of Perspective Directing Catheter Ablation Procedure.
Methods
The study included patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation who were admitted to the Seventh People's Hospital, Zhengzhou City, and underwent catheter ablation from March 2017 to April 2022. These patients were divided into two groups, the transesophageal echocardiography combined with fluoroscopy group (TEE group, n = 73) and the fluoroscopy-guided group (DSA group, n = 73), using propensity score matching. Perioperative and follow-up data were compared to assess the efficacy, safety and cost-effectiveness of fluoroscopy-guided left atrial appendage closure combined with catheter ablation.
Results
Both groups of patients successfully completed catheter ablation and left atrial appendage occlusion, with similar procedure times (P > 0.05), indicating no statistical difference. In total, 4 patients experienced pericardial effusion and 1 patient experienced vagal reflex (P > 0.05), but there were no statistically significant differences. Regarding the occurrence of minimal pericardial effusion, there was a statistically significant difference between the DSA group and the TEE group (P < 0.05), suggesting that the DSA group may have an advantage. Additionally, there were statistically significant differences between the DSA group and the TEE group in terms of hospitalization period and expenses (P < 0.05). During the follow-up period, there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of atrial fibrillation recurrence, re-ablation, stroke/transient ischemic attack, and embolism. There were also no statistically significant differences in terms of all-cause mortality, all-cause rehospitalization, cardiovascular event rehospitalization, and major bleeding. Likewise, there were no statistically significant differences in terms of device displacement, residual shunting related to the device, and device-related thrombosis.
Conclusions
For the left atrial appendage occlusion combined with catheter ablation, the effectiveness and safety of DSA alone are not inferior to DSA combined with TEE guidance, and it has certain advantages in reducing hospital costs and length of stay.
Does Medicaid Institutions for Mental Diseases Exclusion Waiver Crowd Out the Access to Treatment Among Commercially Insured Substance Use Disorder Patients? An Empirical Study Using Commercial Insurance Claims Data
Authors: Ge Yimin
Published: October 2023

Introduction
Medicaid payment exclusion waivers for substance use disorder (SUD), as part of the Section 1115 demonstration program, allow states to pay for SUD-related services received in institutions for mental diseases (IMDs). As of the end of 2020, 28 states obtained such waivers. Due to the limitation in treatment capacity and long treatment cycle, questions are raised about the potential crowd-out effect of expanding Medicaid benefits on commercially insured patients. This paper examines whether adopting Medicaid IMD exclusion waivers crowds out the access to treatment of commercially insured SUD patients.
Methods
The study uses a synthetic control difference-in-difference approach to examine the waiver effect, with commercial insurance claims data during the period 2012-2020. The analysis is repeated for SUD patients with mental health comorbidities and compares the differences between the two groups of patients.
Results
In general, commercial plan enrollees use more outpatient SUD treatment (41.5%) compared to inpatient or residential (14.9%) and intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization (1.4%). Instead of finding a crowd-out impact on access, the findings suggest adopting an IMD SUD waiver contributes to a 0.2 percentage point increase in access to intensive outpatient or partial hospitalization treatment services among commercially insured SUD patients. No impact is found on access to inpatient, outpatient, and medication-assisted treatment.
Conclusions
This study offers insights into access to treatment among commercially insured SUD patients. It provides evidence of the importance of Medicaid policies in shaping the treatment market beyond the Medicaid population.
WITHDRAWN: Interaction between Labor Market Conditions and Educational Investment
Authors: García Miguel Ángel Ropero
Published: October 2023

We consider a two-period model in which an informed worker may invest in education in the first period, in which case she will not participate in the labor market in that period, but her diploma will allow her to signal a greater productivity in the second period. In this setting, we analyze the effects of a change in the labor market conditions on the worker´s educational decision. In a selective educational system wherein the rate at which the cost of education decreases with the worker´s productivity is sufficiently high, we found that the worker´s incentives to invest in education become stronger when the worker is more patient, when the expected future wage is greater, or when the cost of education is lower. Interestingly, the opposite occurs in a nonselective educational setting wherein the rate at which the cost of education decreases with the worker´s productivity is sufficiently low. Those results are robust to the worker´s risk preferences and to the specification of the prior distribution function of worker´s productivities.
JEL Classification: C72, C79, D82, D83, I21, J01.
Pengukuran Prestasi Belajar Mahasiswa Berdasarkan Prediksi Nilai Menggunakan General Linear Model
Authors: Murad Dina Fitria , Wijanarko Bambang Dwi , Murad Silvia Ayunda , Windyasari Vina Septiana
Published: October 2023

The Covid-19 pandemic is an international disaster experienced by almost all countries in the world. Several research results reveal the special impact of the pandemic on the education sector. Not only lecturers and students, but higher education providers also experience the same thing. Various adjustments were made so that all parties involved were able to adapt properly. It's been two years since the pandemic among us and during that time the learning process has continued. Based on this, several institutions began to take steps that raised questions about whether the learning achievement targets in each subject could still be achieved. This study aims to predict student grades using several machine-learning algorithms. The prediction results are a measure to find out whether learning outcomes have been achieved or not, if not achieved then additional steps need to be taken to help students. The results of this research are expected to help UNIS to prepare appropriate learning models for its students and ensure that all learning achievement targets are achieved. The research method used is a technique of machine learning. The results of this study indicate that the General Linear Model is a classification model with the best accuracy, which can be used to predict student achievement in certain classes based on the evaluation scores of the first structured activity (EKT1), midterm exams, grades (UTS), and second structured activity evaluation scores (EKT2). And it turns out that the UTS score has the greatest influence between EKT1 and EKT.
The effect of pay equity on organizational commitment in higher education institutions in Bangladesh
Authors: Siddikur Rahman Md. , Md Som Hishamuddin , Niamul Karim Dewan , H Asibur Rahman Md. , Maksudul Karim Mohammad
Published: October 2023

Pay inequity seems to be a major concern at private universities in developing countries. Therefore, this study, drawing on equity and relative deprivation theories, aims to investigate the role of pay equity in shaping the organizational commitment of university faculty members in Bangladesh. It used the convenience sampling method with a structured questionnaire. Participants in the study were 254 full-time faculty members, including lecturers, assistant professors, associate professors, and professors from private universities in Bangladesh. A t-test comparing different categories of faculty members showed no noteworthy distinctions between their responses regarding pay equity and organizational commitment. Then, the study employed variance-based structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze the data and validate the research model. According to the findings, internal pay equity positively and significantly affects affective (β = 0.327, p < 0.05) and normative commitment (β = 0.579, p < 0.05). Moreover, external pay equity is significantly associated with affective (β = 0.488, p < 0.05) and continuance commitment (β = 0.492, p < 0.05). However, the impact of internal pay equity on continuance commitment (β = 0.150, p = 0.165) was insignificant. Similarly, the relationship between external pay equity and normative commitment (β = 0.170, p = 0.263) was also insignificant. The findings indicate that higher education institutions can stimulate the organizational commitment of academics by promoting pay equity.
UPLC-QTOF/MS-MS Based Profiling Coupled to Antioxidant Activity for Evaluation of Unripe Acerola Fruits from Different Clones
Authors: Silveira Amanda , Ribeiro Laíza , Sampaio Lorena , Lima Amélia , Alves Filho Elenilson , Ribeiro Paulo , Canuto Kirley , Moura Carlos , Ayala-Zavala Jesus , Oliveira Luciana
Published: October 2023

The potential of four commercial clones of unripe acerola fruit was investigated regarding a source of nutraceuticals and functional foods for industrial use. The chemical profiling of the BRS 235-Apodi, BRS 236-Cereja, BRS 237-Roxinha, and BRS 238-Frutacor clones was determined by the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF/MS-MS) technique coupled to multivariate statistical analysis, which were then correlated to ABTS•+ radical capture (2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays in order to measure the antioxidant capacity. A total of 24 bioactive compounds were identified, including high amounts of quercetin-O-hexoside, astilbin, and apigenin, which were correlated to three clones (BRS 235, BRS 237, and BRS 238). On the other hand, the BRS 236 clone presented high contents of ascorbic acid, iso-ascorbic acid, citric acid, procyanidin B trimer, rutin, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity. These compounds were additionally found to be strongly associated with the antioxidant capacity of unripe acerola fruits. Therefore, the present study revealed that BRS 236 is a promising clone as an antioxidant source to be used as a functional food or ingredient.
The optimization model of whole process engineering consulting consortium members based on Z-number
Authors: Liu Zecheng , Chu Jianyu , Du Jinjian
Published: October 2023

At present, there are very few enterprises with whole-process engineering consulting capability and qualification. To carry out consulting work in a consortium is a necessary way to meet the actual situation of the industry and promote whole-process consulting quickly, and the selection of consortium members is the key issue. First of all, this paper summarizes the construction principle of the index system of consortium member selection, and describes the index system. Aiming at the consortium member selection model, on the basis of comprehensive consideration of 9 indicators, the evaluation value of Z-Numbers fuzzy numbers is obtained by using seven-point language terms, the index weight and expert weight are obtained by using the sequential method and entropy weight method, and the data are processed to get the alternative enterprise evaluation matrix. Fuzzy TOPSIS method suitable for Z-Numbers was introduced to solve the positive ideal solution closeness degree of each enterprise, so as to rank the alternative enterprises.
Negative pressure protection of water supply systems with multi-undulating terrain by one-way surge tanks
Authors: Zhao Wenlong , Yu Xiaodong , Tang Ronglian , Shi Lin , Chen Nan , Zhang Jian , Du Chang
Published: October 2023

The protection of negative pressures generated by the hydraulic transient process in the water supply system is crucial to safe and stable operation. In this study, a mathematical model of a pipeline hydraulic transient system with multi-undulating terrain was established based on the method of characteristics (MOC). The generation and development of water hammer negative pressures were analyzed, and double one-way surge tank protection schemes were proposed. It proved that the first surge tank should be located at the initial negative pressure point, and the second surge tank should be located at the second-highest point rather than the highest point. Additionally, compared with the theoretical minimum height, there was an optimization margin for the total surge tank height, which was reduced by 21% in this study. Meanwhile, the applicability of protection schemes and the influence of the one-way surge tank number on the total height were analyzed. The total height reduced with the increase of one-way surge tank number and tended to a minimum value. By comprehensively considering the engineering investment and negative pressure protection effect, the optimal surge tank number could be determined. This research represents an advance in negative pressure protection in multi-undulating terrain and provides support for further engineering studies.
A new stable and interpretable flood forecasting model combining multi-head attention mechanism and multiple linear regression
Authors: Wang Yi-yang , Wang Wenchuan , Chau Kwok-wing , Xu Dong-mei , Zang Hong-fei , Liu Chang-jun , Ma Qiang
Published: October 2023

This article proposes a multi-head attention flood forecasting model (MHAFFM) that combines a multi-head attention mechanism (MHAM) with multiple linear regression for flood forecasting. Compared to models based on Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) neural networks, MHAFFM enables precise and stable multi-hour flood forecasting. First, the model utilizes characteristics of full-batch stable input data in multiple linear regression to solve the problem of oscillation in the prediction results of existing models. Second, full-batch information is connected to MHAM to improve the model's ability to process and interpret high-dimensional information. Finally, the model accurately and stably predicts future flood processes through linear layers. The model is applied to Dawen River Basin, and experimental results show that the MHAFFM, compared to three benchmarking models, namely, LSTM, BOA-LSTM (LSTM with Bayesian Optimization Algorithm for Hyperparameter Tuning), and MHAM-LSTM (LSTM model with MHAM in hidden layer), significantly improves the prediction performance under different lead time scenarios while maintaining good stability and interpretability. Taking Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency index as an example, under a lead time of 3 h, the MHAFFM model exhibits improvements of 8.85, 3.71, and 10.29% compared to the three benchmarking models, respectively. This research provides a new approach for flood forecasting.
Developed log-wake law and turbulent behaviour of flow along a stepped spillway
Authors: Pongcharoenpit Panaitep , Kositgittiwong Duangrudee , Ekkawatpanit Chaiwat
Published: October 2023

The log-wake law for turbulent current has been developed and tested with laboratory data on turbulent flow in smooth pipes. However, flow with turbulence and vortices in a stepped spillway have not been described. Therefore, in this study, a log-wake law has been developed for use in stepped spillway systems. It can be divided into three parts. The first part, a logarithmic equation, describes the effect of shear stress between the flow layers with a von Kármán constant of 0.41. The second part, a third-degree polynomial, describes the effect of the shear stress on the wall. The last part, a fourth-degree polynomial, describes the effect of changing the flow pressure distribution, similar to the wall-free shear stress. Calibration tests (68 datasets) are used with a flow rate between 0.0233 and 3.285 m3/s, a spillway slope of 14–30°, and a step height of 0.0380–0.610 m. The developed log-wake law characterized the flow in a stepped spillway well. The limitation of the equation is a maximum flow velocity of 4 m/s; the accuracy of this equation decreases as the step height increases.
Assessing the quality of the municipal wastewater used for irrigation in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Poonia Poonam , Gaur Loveena , Parihar Sangeeta , Pachak Suresh Kumar
Published: October 2023

Municipal wastewater has been inevitably rising over time with the growing population, rapid urbanisation, and expanding sewerages. This study was conducted in the Jodhpur district of Western Rajasthan, India, which has a hot semi-arid climate and faces an acute shortage of good-quality water for irrigation. As a result, municipal wastewater is being used in agricultural fields in urban and peri-urban areas of Jodhpur. This study evaluates the suitability of municipal wastewater for irrigation in agriculture. Samples were collected from the Basni Bedan drainage area during December, 2022 and were analysed for various physico-chemical and biological parameters. The SAR value and EC were observed as 13 + 0.20 Meq/L and 1352.5 + 20.11 μS cm−1. BOD, DO, and COD values were obtained 56 + 2.57, 365 + 7.64, and 3.55 + 0.13 mg/L, respectively, which were above the Indian Standard permissible levels. High levels of total coliform counts, 177.5 + 4.86 MPN/100mL, were found. Statistical analysis reveals a positive correlation for pairs chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) (R=0.98) and a negative correlation for pairs BOD and dissolved oxygen (DO) (R=0.99). It was concluded that the studied wastewater is polluted and may cause potential health risks. There is a need for proper planning and strategies to develop an economical viable treatment system for sustainable agricultural management.
Efeito dos Óleos de Aroeira Pimenta e Erva de Santa Maria em Sementes de Milho Armazenadas à Temperatura Ambiente
Authors: Garofolo Ana Cristina Siewert , Morais Lilia Aparecida Salgado de , Braz Madelon Rodrigues Sá , Antunes Luiz Fernando de Sousa
Published: October 2023

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar o efeito dos óleos de aroeira pimenta (Schinus terebinthifolius) e erva de Santa Maria (Chenopodium ambrosioides) em sementes de milho armazenadas à temperatura ambiente por um período de 12 meses. Sementes em estudo foram submetidas a testes de germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação bem como condutividade elétrica, teor de potássio e açucares realizados no líquido de sementes deixadas em imersão. Realizou-se avaliação da atividade específica da peroxidase e peroxidação de lipídeos nas sementes após 12 meses de armazenamento. Menores índices porcentuais de germinação foram observados para o tratamento da Erva de Santa Maria na concentração 4ul/g. O teste de condutividade elétrica realizado aos 6 meses demonstrou menores valores para os tratamentos com 1ul/g e 3ul/g para este óleo, sendo que aos 12 meses de armazenamento não foi possível constatar diferenças estatísticas entre os tratamentos. Concentração de 1 µl/g da aroeira pimenta resultou em maior atividade da enzima peroxidase aos 12 meses de armazenamento, diferindo da testemunha e evidenciando um possível efeito do óleo no sequestro de espécies reativas ao oxigênio. Todos os tratamentos realizados com óleo de Erva de Santa Maria tiveram sua atividade enzimática diminuída, e um aumento, ainda que não significativo, da peroxidação, e diminuição da capacidade germinativa, evidenciando morte das sementes.
Liraglutide and Liver Injury: Rare Case Report with Literature Review
Authors: Salehi Amir Mohammad , Hasanzarrini Maryam , Salehi Hossain , Jenabi Ensiyeh
Published: October 2023

Background:

Liraglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist used
for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). So far, few severe side effects have been
reported for it.

Case Presentation:

A 41-year-old woman was admitted to the Emergency Room with diffuse
abdominal pain. The patient had a known case of T2DM, fatty liver disease, and hypertension
and was treated with Metformin, Liraglutide, and Losartan. Her liver functional test (LFT) was
consistent with hepatocellular injury; however, laboratory tests and abdominal ultrasound were
used to rule out autoimmune hepatitis. Due to concerns for drug-induced liver injury (DILL),
liraglutide was discontinued and N-acetyl cysteine was prescribed. On the fifth day of hospitalization,
the patient's symptoms resolved and his LFT started to decrease on the sixth day after 2
months, the patient's liver enzyme levels returned to normal.

Conclusion:

Liraglutide is one of the most important drugs in the treatment of T2DM.The most
common side effects of this drug are constipation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, and
loss of appetite. In rare cases, symptoms of thyroid cancer, pancreatitis, and hypoglycemia have
been reported, however, DILL is one of the extremely rare side effect of Liraglutide. It is important
to increase the awareness of physicians about the liver injury of Liraglutide.
Analysis Of Rotor-Side Control And Grid-Side Controls For Grid Voltage Improvement In A DFIG-Based Wind Turbine System
Authors: Alsabah Mus Ali , Hasanah Rini Nur , Wijono Wijono , Martineac Corina
Published: October 2023

Wind Power Plant (PLTB) has received a lot of attention from the public, researchers, and the government because of its advantages and role in reducing the causes of environmental damage due to the generation of electrical energy. Unlike power plants that use primary energy from fossil fuels, PLTB uses wind kinetic energy to generate electricity. Many problems arise because the wind speed is always changing every time. The resulting output voltage instability in the generator can affect the electric power system where the output electricity of the generator is injected. This paper describes how to analyze the generator output voltage control at PLTB. The generator used is a type of induction generator with two inputs (Double-Fed Induction Generator, DFIG). while the method of analysis is carried out using the PSIM simulation tool from Powersim, Inc. Control is carried out both on the rotor side (Rotor Side Converter, RSC) and on the grid side (Grid Side Converter), with the aim of maintaining the output voltage injected into the power grid with a certain level of voltage oscillation. The control results show that the generator output voltage can be maintained as desired.
Is Africa ready to join the blockchain revolution: a feasibility study
Authors: Monethi Tlhokomelo Rethabile
Published: October 2023

This study assesses the readiness of African governments to adopt blockchain technology, which has gained global recognition since the emergence of bitcoin in 2008. The paper examines whether African governments, given their political, economic, and social challenges, are prepared to embrace the blockchain revolution. The research focuses on a feasibility study of several African countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, and the Central African Republic, using a mixed-methods approach that combines quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods. The author draws on Jennifer Bridges' four interdependent elements of a feasibility study, which include political feasibility, economic feasibility, technical capacities, and legal and regulatory compliance.

The study examines how blockchain technology can provide transparent and reliable systems to combat corruption and mismanagement in government structures, which contribute to poor service delivery in the region. Furthermore, the research evaluates the potential positive and negative outcomes of blockchain implementation on African development, such as an increase in foreign direct investment and productivity, and a reduction in wasteful expenditure.
Algorithmization for calculating the security assessment of AIS operating systems of internal affairs bodies, developed on the basis of an analysis of security requirements GOST R ISO/IEC 15408 and possible threats
Authors: Yangirov A. I. , Rogozin E. A. , Bokova O. I. , Akhlyustin S. B.
Published: October 2023

Objective. The article provides a generalized algorithmization of the processes necessary for developing software for assessing the security of operating systems of automated information systems of internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation.

Method. The research was carried out based on the method of analyzing possible threats to the security of operating systems, as well as the requirements of the GOST R ISO/IEC 15408 standard.

Result. The result of the automated system for calculating the security indicator of the analyzed OS is one of the specified criteria for indicators of the degree of security of the OS. By comparing the obtained indicator, the corresponding result is output.

Conclusion. The authors provide a generalized algorithmization of the processes necessary for developing software for assessing the security of the AIS OS of the Russian Federation ATS.
Corporate Training in Emotional Intelligence: Effective Practice or Modern ‘Fugazy’
Authors: Dimitrov Yasen , Vlaev Ivo
Published: October 2023

The article presents a viewpoint for conducting corporate training programmes aimed at soft skills, using comprehension of the Emotional Intelligence concept. The purpose of the article is, by disclosing some of the flaws and failures of such programmes, to offer new solutions directed towards overcoming automatic defence mechanisms; a coping technique that reduces anxiety which hinders personal development by making individuals unwilling to learn and act outside their usual comfort zone of behaviours.
Freedom and Plurality in Unity: The European Politics of Der Monat
Authors: Steglich Dana
Published: October 2023

The German-language magazine Der Monat (1948–71) was one of the most impactfulpublications in post-war Germany. It promoted the re-orientation of the German peopleby offering political as well as philosophical essays and introduced international authorsto its readers. In the context of the Cold War, part of the magazine’s marketing strategywas to downplay how close its ties to the United States and American institutions inGermany were and to push its international self-image to the forefront. Thus, Der Monat presented itself as a forum for free and open discussions. But this forum was clearly onlymade up of pro-Western, anti-Communist voices. By analysing the American originsof the magazine, the interplay between German readers, and the international voicesfeatured in Der Monat as well as the European politics of the editorial team and theway in which they were translated into editorial practices, this article aims to identifythe concepts of ‘freedom’ and ‘plurality’ as central to Der Monat’s self-image, and toexpose why the magazine’s opposition to the concept of ‘unity’ promoted by the SovietUnion can be seen as ironic.
The Matter of Europe: Introduction
Authors: Ó Fathaigh Cillian , Thacker Andrew
Published: October 2023

This special issue of JEPS on ‘The Matter of Europe’ contains essays that, in diverse ways, explore how magazines in the immediate decades after the end of World War Two brought a European perspective to bear upon their material.
Pengaruh Disiplin Kerja dan Motivasi Kerja Terhadap Kinerja Guru SMK Negeri Se-Kabupaten Pekalongan
Authors: Hidayat Akhyat , Murniati Ngurah Ayu Nyoman , Abdullah Ghufron
Published: October 2023

Kinerja guru dalam merencanakan pembelajaran, melaksanakan pembelajaran, dan menilai hasil belajar merupakan faktor penting dalam mencapai tujuan pendidikan. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui: (1) pengaruh disiplin kerja terhadap kinerja guru, (2) pengaruh motivasi kerja terhadap kinerja guru, dan (3) pengaruh disiplin kerja dan motivasi kerja secara bersama-sama terhadap kinerja guru SMK Negeri di Kabupaten Pekalongan. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan jenis penelitian korelasional. Populasi dalam penelitian ini sebanyak 265 guru yang tersebar di empat sekolah dengan sampel sejumlah 160 guru. Teknik pengambilan sampel menggunakan teknik random sampling. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh signifikan disiplin kerja terhadap kinerja guru sebesar 56,6% dengan dimensi yang paling lemah adalah taat aturan waktu, terdapat pengaruh motivasi kerja terhadap kinerja guru sebesar 8,9% dengan kelemahan pada dimensi motivasi intrinsik, dan terdapat pengaruh signifikan antara disiplin kerja dan motivasi kerja secara bersama-sama terhadap kinerja guru SMK Negeri di Kabupaten Pekalongan sebesar 56,2%. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa semakin baik kedua variabel tersebut yaitu disiplin kerja dan motivasi kerja maka akan meningkatkan kinerja guru.
Trend of the Tuberculous Pleurisy Notification Rate in Eastern China During 2017-2021: Spatiotemporal Analysis
Authors: Zhou Ying , Luo Dan , Liu Kui , Chen Bin , Chen Songhua , Pan Junhang , Liu Zhengwei , Jiang Jianmin
Published: October 2023

Background

Tuberculous pleurisy (TP) presents a serious allergic reaction in the pleura caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis; however, few studies have described its spatial epidemiological characteristics in eastern China.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the epidemiological distribution of TP and predict its further development in Zhejiang Province.

Methods

Data on all notified cases of TP in Zhejiang Province, China, from 2017 to 2021 were collected from the existing tuberculosis information management system. Analyses, including spatial autocorrelation and spatial-temporal scan analysis, were performed to identify hot spots and clusters, respectively. The prediction of TP prevalence was performed using the seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA), Holt-Winters exponential smoothing, and Prophet models using R (The R Foundation) and Python (Python Software Foundation).

Results

The average notification rate of TP in Zhejiang Province was 7.06 cases per 100,000 population, peaking in the summer. The male-to-female ratio was 2.18:1. In terms of geographical distribution, clusters of cases were observed in the western part of Zhejiang Province, including parts of Hangzhou, Quzhou, Jinhua, Lishui, Wenzhou, and Taizhou city. Spatial-temporal analysis identified 1 most likely cluster and 4 secondary clusters. The Holt-Winters model outperformed the SARIMA and Prophet models in predicting the trend in TP prevalence.

Conclusions

The western region of Zhejiang Province had the highest risk of TP. Comprehensive interventions, such as chest x-ray screening and symptom screening, should be reinforced to improve early identification. Additionally, a more systematic assessment of the prevalence trend of TP should include more predictors.
Digital Health Secondary Prevention Using Co-Design Procedures: Focus Group Study With Health Care Providers and Patients With Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Pelly Melissa Louise , Fatehi Farhad , Liew Danny , Verdejo-Garcia Antonio
Published: October 2023

Background

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a debilitating condition and a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Digital health is a promising approach for delivering secondary prevention to support patients with a history of MI and for reducing risk factors that can lead to a future event. However, its potential can only be fulfilled when the technology meets the needs of the end users who will be interacting with this secondary prevention.

Objective

We aimed to gauge the opinions of patients with a history of MI and health professionals concerning the functions, features, and characteristics of a digital health solution to support post-MI care.

Methods

Our approach aligned with the gold standard participatory co-design procedures enabling progressive refinement of feedback via exploratory, confirmatory, and prototype-assisted feedback from participants. Patients with a history of MI and health professionals from Australia attended focus groups over a videoconference system. We engaged with 38 participants across 3 rounds of focus groups using an iterative co-design approach. Round 1 included 8 participants (4 patients and 4 health professionals), round 2 included 24 participants (11 patients and 13 health professionals), and round 3 included 22 participants (14 patients and 8 health professionals).

Results

Participants highlighted the potential of digital health in addressing the unmet needs of post-MI care. Both patients with a history of MI and health professionals agreed that mental health is a key concern in post-MI care that requires further support. Participants agreed that family members can be used to support postdischarge care and require support from the health care team. Participants agreed that incorporating simple games with a points system can increase long-term engagement. However, patients with a history of MI emphasized a lack of support from their health care team, family, and community more strongly than health professionals. They also expressed some openness to using artificial intelligence, whereas health professionals expressed that users should not be aware of artificial intelligence use.

Conclusions

These results provide valuable insights into the development of digital health secondary preventions aimed at supporting patients with a history of MI. Future research can implement a pilot study in the population with MI to trial these recommendations in a real-world setting.
Trend of the Tuberculous Pleurisy Notification Rate in Eastern China During 2017-2021: Spatiotemporal Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Zhou Ying , Luo Dan , Liu Kui , Chen Bin , Chen Songhua , Pan Junhang , Liu Zhengwei , Jiang Jianmin
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Tuberculous pleurisy (TP) presents a serious allergic reaction in the pleura caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis; however, few studies have described its spatial epidemiological characteristics in eastern China.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the epidemiological distribution of TP and predict its further development in Zhejiang Province.

METHODS

Data on all notified cases of TP in Zhejiang Province, China, from 2017 to 2021 were collected from the existing tuberculosis information management system. Analyses, including spatial autocorrelation and spatial-temporal scan analysis, were performed to identify hot spots and clusters, respectively. The prediction of TP prevalence was performed using the seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA), Holt-Winters exponential smoothing, and Prophet models using R (The R Foundation) and Python (Python Software Foundation).

RESULTS

The average notification rate of TP in Zhejiang Province was 7.06 cases per 100,000 population, peaking in the summer. The male-to-female ratio was 2.18:1. In terms of geographical distribution, clusters of cases were observed in the western part of Zhejiang Province, including parts of Hangzhou, Quzhou, Jinhua, Lishui, Wenzhou, and Taizhou city. Spatial-temporal analysis identified 1 most likely cluster and 4 secondary clusters. The Holt-Winters model outperformed the SARIMA and Prophet models in predicting the trend in TP prevalence.

CONCLUSIONS

The western region of Zhejiang Province had the highest risk of TP. Comprehensive interventions, such as chest x-ray screening and symptom screening, should be reinforced to improve early identification. Additionally, a more systematic assessment of the prevalence trend of TP should include more predictors.
Patterns and Perceptions of Standard Order Set Use Among Physicians Working Within a Multihospital System: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Naicker Sundresan , Tariq Amina , Donovan Raelene , Magon Honor , White Nicole , Simmons Joshua , McPhail Steven M
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Electronic standard order sets automate the ordering of specific treatment, testing, and investigative protocols by physicians. These tools may help reduce unwarranted clinical variation and improve health care efficiency. Despite their routine implementation within electronic medical records (EMRs), little is understood about how they are used and what factors influence their adoption in practice.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to (1) describe the patterns of use of standard order sets implemented in a widely used EMR (PowerPlans and Cerner Millennium) within a multihospital digital health care system; (2) explore the experiences and perceptions of implementers and users regarding the factors contributing to the use of these standard order sets; and (3) map these findings to the Capability, Opportunity, and Motivation Behavior (COM-B) model of behavior change to assist those planning to develop, improve, implement, and iterate the use of standard order sets in hospital settings.

METHODS

Quantitative data on standard order set usage were captured from 5 hospitals over 5-month intervals for 3 years (2019, 2020, and 2021). Qualitative data, comprising unstructured and semistructured interviews (n=15), were collected and analyzed using a reflexive thematic approach. Interview themes were then mapped to a theory-informed model of behavior change (COM-B) to identify determinants of standard order set usage in routine clinical practice. The COM-B model is an evidence-based, multicomponent framework that posits that human actions result from multiple contextual influences, which can be categorized across 3 dimensions: capability, opportunity, and motivation, all of which intersect.

RESULTS

The total count of standard order set usage across the health system during the 2019 observation period was 267,253, increasing to 293,950 in 2020 and 335,066 in 2021. There was a notable shift toward using specialty order sets that received upgrades during the study period. Four emergent themes related to order set use were derived from clinician interviews: (1) Knowledge and Skills; (2) Perceptions; (3) Technical Dependencies; and (4) Unintended Consequences, all of which were mapped to the COM-B model. Findings indicate a user preference for customized order sets that respond to local context and user experience.

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings suggest that ongoing investment in the development and functionality of specialty order sets has the potential to enhance usage as these sets continue to be customized in response to local context and user experience. Sustained and continuous uptake of appropriate Computerized Provider Order Entry use may require implementation strategies that address the capability, opportunity, and motivational influencers of behavior.
INTEGRATING HTML5-BASED SPEECH RECOGNITION WITH LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM TO ENHANCE EFL LEARNERS’ PRONUNCIATION SKILLS
Authors: Al Aufi Asma , Naqvi Samia , Naidu Vikas Rao , Al Homani Yusra
Published: October 2023

HTML5 (HyperText Markup Language version 5) is currently integrated with almost all web-based applications due to its compatibility with numerous types of multimedia content including music, video, and animation. This exploratory study focused on the application and assessment of an HTML5-based plugin called H5P as a Computer Assisted Pronunciation Training (CAPT) tool in developing the pronunciation skills of intermediate-level learners of English as a foreign language (EFL). The target words were initially recorded with their correct pronunciations and then the audio files were imported into H5P to create interactive exercises. The H5P was then integrated with the institutional Learning Management System (LMS).  The practice was implemented on n=188 EFL learners enrolled in the General Foundation (GFP) of a university college in the Sultanate of Oman. The efficacy of the approach was assessed through the perspectives of students by using student questionnaires and a student focus group discussion (FGD). The study yielded encouraging findings since most of the students agreed that the use of HTML5 as a CAPT tool was helpful in enhancing their pronunciation skills as it provided automatically generated instant feedback, was easy to use, and could be used by students autonomously at their own pace. Although the impact of software on student achievement in terms of pronunciation skills could not be gauged and the sample was limited to one institution, the study has useful implications for EFL teachers and curriculum designers on using HTML5 for developing pronunciation skills. Further studies are necessary to investigate the pedagogic potential of CAPT resources to develop a high level of competence in EFL learners’ pronunciation.
TEACHING ENGLISH AT THE MASTER’S DEGREE COURSE “LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNICATION IN SCIENCE, INDUSTRY AND EDUCATION”
Authors: Sysoeva Maria , Shabashova Elena
Published: October 2023

Increasing the share of multinational science in the global research and at the industry market leads to attracting promising young specialists and leaders to develop science, technology, engineering, economy and social sphere. The introduced course on "Leadership and Communication in Science, Industry and Education" for the Master’s program students at the Foreign Languages Department of the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (National Research University) (MIPT) gives the graduates an invaluable opportunity to become well-rounded leaders in their respective fields.  By focusing on leadership and communication skills mastered through English this course equips the students with the essential tools to excel in their careers and make a meaningful impact enhancing the reputation and visibility of Russian scientific achievements which positions the students as advantageous candidates for roles in technology transfer, research management, and industry-academia partnerships both in Russia and internationally.
Academias de preceptores en el Estado de México: espacios de construcción del saber pedagógico en el porfiriato
Authors: Padilla Arroyo Antonio
Published: October 2023

El presente texto es una aproximación al estudio de una de las instituciones que conformaron el sistema educativo en la segunda mitad del siglo XIX en el Estado de México, las academias de preceptores o academias pedagógicas. Se presentan una serie de reflexiones en torno a la importancia y la función que desempeñaron como un dispositivo para la difusión, la enseñanza y el aprendizaje de discursos, conocimientos, métodos y prácticas pedagógicas, las cuales se configuraron a la luz de las necesidades, fines y expectativas que conllevó la construcción de la escuela “moderna”.