bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptomic analysis reveal the critical signatures involved in nonhealing diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Hu Yungang , Yu Lu , Du Weili , Hu Xiaohua , Shen Yuming
Published: May 2024

Background Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is a prevalent complication associated with diabetes that is characterised by high morbidity, high disability and high mortality and involves chronic inflammation and infiltration of multiple immune cells. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying DFU remain unclear. Here, we aimed to identify the critical signatures in nonhealing DFUs using single-cell RNA sequencing and transcriptomic analysis.Methods The GSE165816, GSE134431, and GSE143735 datasets were downloaded from the GEO database. First, we preliminarily processed and screened the datasets, removed low-quality data and identified the cell subsets. Each cell subtype was annotated, and the predominant cell types contributing to the disease were analysed. Based on this information, a prediction model was constructed with the training set GSE134431 and testing set GSE143735. Key genes were identified using the LASSO regression algorithm, followed by verification of model accuracy and stability. Additionally, we investigated the molecular mechanisms and changes in signalling pathways associated with this disease using immunoinfiltration analysis, GSEA, and GSVA.Results Through scRNA-seq analysis, we identified 12 distinct cell clusters and determined that the basalKera cell type was important in disease development. A prediction model with high accuracy and stability was constructed incorporating five key genes (TXN, PHLDA2, RPLP1, MT1G, and SDC4). Immune cell infiltration analysis, GSEA, and GSVA revealed alterations in immune cells and signalling pathways throughout disease progression, primarily involving CD8+ T cells, T helper cells, the hypoxia-inducible factor signalling pathway, and the interleukin-17 signalling pathway.Conclusions Our study identified six key genes, namely, TXN, PHLDA2, RPLP1, MT1G, and SDC4, which are significantly associated with the development of nonhealing DFU and play a crucial role in immune cell infiltration. The identified genes have the potential to serve as new prevention and treatment strategies for DFU.
Gut microbiome-brain crosstalk in the early life of chicken reveals the circadian regulation of key metabolic and immune signaling processes
Authors: Gupta Mridula , Cilkiz Mustafa , Ibrahim Mohamed Magdy , Athrey Giridhar
Published: May 2024

Background
Circadian rhythms are innate biological systems that control everyday behavior and physiology. Furthermore, bilateral interaction between the host's circadian rhythm and the gut microbes influences a variety of health ramifications, including metabolic diseases, obesity, and mental health. Several studies have revealed how neurological components interact with GALT physiology and the microbiome population in the host. Keeping these factors in regard, we are studying the correlation between differential gene expression in the chicken brain and microbiota abundance during circadian rhythms. To study rhythmic oscillations in immune genes, we raised freshly hatched chicks under two photoperiod treatments: normal photoperiod (NP = 12/12 LD) and extended photoperiod (EP 23/1 LD). The chicks were randomly assigned to one of two treatments. After 21 days of circadian entrainment, the chicks were euthanized at nine-time points spaced six hours apart over 48 hours to characterize the brain transcriptomes. Each sample's RNA was extracted, and 36 mRNA libraries were created and sequenced using Illumina technology, followed by data processing, count data generation, and differential gene expression analysis.
Results
We generated an average of 17.5 million reads per library for 237933593.3 reads. When aligned to the Galgal6 reference genome, 11,867 genes had detectable expression levels, with a common dispersion value of 0.105. To identify the genes that follow 24-hr rhythms counts per million data were performed in DiscoRhythm. We discovered 577 genes with Cosinor and 417 with the JTK cycle algorithm that exhibit substantial rhythms. We used weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) to analyze the correlation between differentially expressed genes and microbiota abundance. The most enriched pathways included aldosterone-regulated sodium reabsorption, endocrine and other factor-regulated calcium reabsorption, GABAergic synapse, oxidative phosphorylation, serotonergic synapse, dopaminergic synapse, and circadian entrainment.
Conclusions
Photoperiods and robust 24-hr rhythms differentially influenced key neurochemical and mitochondrial pathways during early life. Furthermore, the interaction between gut microbiota and host gene expression highlights the role that specific microbial taxa (like Lactobacillus) may play in the early-life regulation of homeostasis and provides promising avenues for application.
Sulfur doped Zinc Oxide-Nikel Oxide as Efficient Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for overall Water splitting
Authors: Saeed Faiq , arain Samia , Yong Wang
Published: May 2024

A mixed Sulfur-doped zinc oxide-nickel oxide nanocomposite electrocatalyst for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) was prepared. By hydrothermal method, we prepared a high-efficiency OER electrocatalyst doped with zinc oxide and nickel oxide. By applying different characterizations, the material was proven to be a new phase of (S-doped-ZnO-NiO). S-doped ZnO-NiO, ZnO-NiO did not show excellent performance. At 10 mA cm− 2, the generation potential of OER is 1.45 V and that of HER is -0.04 V. This unique morphology results in better OER performance of 240 mV at 10 mA cm− 2 in the KOH electrolyte, and similarly, the S-doped ZnO-NiO shows us excellent long-term stability in alkaline media with a small Tafel slope (77 mV dec− 1). S-doped ZnO-NiO hybrid catalysts offer great potential for electrochemical devices due to their low cost and high activity. we have successfully constructed an electrocatalyst with the dual functions of HER and OER, which can achieve efficient water splitting.
Hybrid Encryption for Securing HDFS Data in Big Data Environments
Authors: shivani shivani Awasthi
Published: May 2024

In the previous era, Conventional encryption schemes that work on file were linked with a lot of processing overhead that negatively impacted performance in the Hadoop framework. But now, With the help of the MapReduce framework or parallel processing method, this paper suggests a unique solution for securing large data and boosting performance: A hybrid encryption technique that combines the Twofish and AES algorithms with the map-reduce framework inside the HDFS (Hadoop Distributed File System) environment. Different conventional methods exist like Twofish + RSA, and AES + Twofish as hybrid encryption that is not decent for dealing with large data, our solution drastically improves performance through parallel encryption by mapper-reducer processes and advances the security of HDFS storage data. In this paper, we use hybrid encryption using AES with Twofish because Twofish provides better data security, and AES is used for optimizing the speed of data encryption, and decryption. Empirical findings validate the suggested approach's effectiveness in protecting private information kept in HDFS and improving performance in terms of speed of encryption ≅ 2–3%, throughput ≅1–2%, and efficiency ≅ 1–2% parameters. This work enhances the performance and reduces the risks associated with unwanted access to important data assets by data security in HDFS-based systems.
Dispersion analysis of generalized wave equations under the single-parameter second-order strain gradient theory
Authors: CHEN CHAOPU , BAI WENLEI , LIU HONG , WANG ZHIYANG , LI YOUMING
Published: May 2024

The construction of wave equations describing the wave propagation in real medium is a critical problem to be solved for oil and gas seismic exploration. Researches show that the microstructural interactions by different scales will trigger the heterogeneous response of the medium, which in turn has an impact on the mechanical behavior of macro-scales. The heterogeneous response triggered by microstructural interactions in the medium is portrayed by introducing higher-order spatial derivatives of the strain and additional parameters of the characteristic scale of the medium under the framework of the generalized continuum mechanics theory (GCMT). When considering the heterogeneous responses triggered by microstructural interactions of the medium, seismic waves propagate in a dispersion manner. In this paper, we introduce the generalized wave equations under the single-parameter second-order strain gradient theory (SSSGT) by considering the nonlocal effects, give the decoupled generalized wave equations using the Helmholtz decomposition theorem, and derive the expression of the phase-velocity of the P- and S-wave to analyze the theoretical dispersion. Combined with numerical modeling, we further investigate the dispersion in the propagation of P- and S-wave triggered by the microstructural interactions. Numerical modeling and dispersion analysis indicate that the wave propagation is affected by the characteristic scale of the micropore of the medium and the frequency, and the dispersion of P- and S-wave is prominent increasingly with the frequency and the characteristic scale of the micropore increasing.
Telehealth-delivered cognitive rehabilitation for people with cognitive impairment as part of the post-COVID syndrome: Protocol for a randomised controlled trial as part of the CICERO (Cognitive Impairment in Long COVID: Phenotyping and Rehabilitation) study
Authors: Vanova Martina , Patel Aysha Mohamed Rafik , Scott Iona , Gilpin Gina , Manning Emily N , Ash Charlotte , Wittenberg Philippa , Lim Jason , Hoare Zoe , Evans Rachel , Bray Nathan , Kipps Christopher M , Devine Ciara , Ahmed Saliha , Dunne Ross , Koniotes Anna , Warren Catherine , Chan Dennis , Suárez-González Aida
Published: May 2024

Background
Between 25–75% of people with persistent post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC) experience cognitive difficulties, compromising functional ability, quality of life, and activities of daily living, including work. However, despite this significant morbidity, there is a paucity of interventions for this disorder that have undergone evaluation within a formal trial setting. Therefore, we have developed a cognitive rehabilitation programme, specifically designed to address the cognitive symptoms of PASC, notably impaired attention and processing speed, while also accounting for other PASC symptoms (fatigue, post-exertional malaise) that may aggravate the cognitive impairment. This study protocol outlines a randomised controlled trial (RCT) designed to evaluate the effectiveness of this programme compared to standard clinical care.
Methods
This is a multi-centre, parallel-group, individually randomised control trial, comparing standard clinical care with and without cognitive rehabilitation. We will recruit 120 non-hospitalised adults (aged 30–60 years) from three NHS sites in England with a history of COVID-19 infection and cognitive impairment persisting more than three months after the acute infection. Participants will be randomised (1:1) to the intervention or control groups, with the latter represented as a provision of standard clinical care without cognitive rehabilitation. The cognitive rehabilitation programme consists of ten one-hour sessions, delivered weekly. Outcomes will be collected at baseline, three and six months, with participant-defined goal-attainment scores, relating to functional goals, at three months as the primary outcome measure. Secondary outcomes will be cognitive function, measures of quality of life, social functioning, mental health, fatigue, sleep, post-exertional malaise, and social and health care service use. We will also evaluate the health-economic benefits of cognitive rehabilitation in this population.
Discussion
Cognitive impairment in PASC is a major cause of functional disability with no effective treatment. Accordingly, we will undertake an RCT of cognitive rehabilitation, the protocol of which is published here. If this trial is successful in delivering improvements in trial outcomes, it will address a major unmet need relating to this emergent disorder, with a significant impact on affected individuals and the wider health economy.
Trial registration
NCT05731570.
DELAYED DIAGNOSIS OF IMPORTED PLASMODIUM VIVAX MALARIA MIMICKING REFRACTORY MIGRAINE
Authors:   Laboratory of Parasitology-MycologyArrazi Hospital, Mohamed VI University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Marrakech, Morocco., Elaassri Soukaina , Babokh Fatima ,   Laboratory of Parasitology-MycologyArrazi Hospital, Mohamed VI University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Marrakech, Morocco., Tazi Saad ,   Laboratory of Parasitology-MycologyArrazi Hospital, Mohamed VI University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Marrakech, Morocco., Elkoudssi Oumayma ,   Department of Internal Medicine Mohamed VI University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Marrakech, Morocco., Elhakouni Awatif ,   Laboratory of Parasitology-MycologyArrazi Hospital, Mohamed VI University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Marrakech, Morocco.,   Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Marrakech, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco.
Published: May 2024

Malaria is referred to as imported malaria in countries outside malaria-endemic areas such as Morocco. The aim of our study was to highlight the importance of epidemiological data for the diagnosis of imported malaria. A 29-year-old moroccan female, presenting with a 3-month history of headache unresolved with usual analgesics, for which she was put on antidepressants and neuroleptics. She then presented to the emergency department with nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. History and clinical examination revealed only mild abdominal pain with fever. Blood count showed anemia at 10.4 g/dl, MCHC at 34, MCH at 32, MCV at 90 fl and reticulocytes at 157920.Symptomatic treatment was given and the patient was referred to the haematology department for etiological diagnosis of her regenerative normocytic normochromic anaemia.Patient was then referred to Internal Medicine, the patient reported having visited Pakistan 1 year previously.In view of this situation, and taking into account the fact that she had travelled to a malaria-endemic area, a thin blood smear (TBS) and a thick blood smear stained with MGG were carried out urgently. A diagnosis of P. vivax malaria was established. Results were communicated immediately to the attending physician, and treatment was administered in an outpatient setting.
CAN PIEZOSURGERY MINIMISE THE POST OPERATIVE SEQUALE IN THIRD MOLAR SURGERY: A SPLIT MOUTH STUDY
Authors:   Sudha Rustagi College of Dental Sciences & Research., Narayana Rao D.R. , Gupta Ashish ,   Sudha Rustagi College of Dental Sciences & Research., Sharma Sneha ,   Sudha Rustagi College of Dental Sciences & Research., Gupta Himani ,   Sudha Rustagi College of Dental Sciences & Research., Shukla Krishnakanth ,   Sudha Rustagi College of Dental Sciences & Research.
Published: May 2024

Background: Despite the use of various instruments for removal of third molars the magnitude of severity of postoperative sequelae still remains a question unanswered. Our study uses a post operative symptom severity scale (Posse) to assess the quality of life after the procedure in comparison to conventional rotary. Aim: Evaluate the Efficacy between the piezotome and conventional rotary in removal of mandibular third molars. Material and Methods: third molar extraction was performed using conventional rotary on one side and piezotome on the other within interval of 7days. Results: The present study was a split mouth study in which piezosurgery can be used in a day-to-day case basis despite the longer duration of surgery. Conclusion: It is an excellent tool to reduce the risk of complication and to improve post - operative outcome. Although we would not say it is an economical option and also it may be more time-consuming.
THERAPEUTIC ADHERENCE IN A POPULATION OF PATIENTS TREATED FOR SCHIZOPHRENIA AT THE HOSPITAL FOR MENTAL HEALTH AND PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS IN TANGIER
Authors: Farah Nsabi , Essafi Amal , Eschater Sara , Benhaddouch Yassine , El Ammouri Adil
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Schizophrenia is a chronic psychosis requiring long-term, often lifelong, treatment and psychiatric follow-up. Adherence to treatment in this population is a prognostic factor for patients and a major challenge for practitioners, with multiple interfering factors and significant consequences. However, the relationship between depression and therapeutic adherence in schizophrenic patients remains underexplored. This study aims to evaluate the epidemiology of therapeutic adherence in our institution . Materials and Methods: This is a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study conducted at the Mental Health and Psychiatric Diseases Hospital in Tanger over a two-month period (from October 1, 2022, to November 30, 2022). Data were collected using a hetero-questionnaire that included sociodemographic data, patient history, clinical characteristics, and therapeutic aspects. Therapeutic adherence, insight,, and psychotic symptoms were assessed using the MARS, Birchwood Q8, , respectively. Bivariate analysis using the Chi-square test, Students t-test, and Mann-Whitney U test, and multivariate analysis using binary logistic regression were performed. Data entry and analysis were carried out using SPSS version 21, with the significance threshold set at 0.05. RÃ©sults: The prevalence of poor therapeutic compliance in our study was 26,7% 72.2% of the patients had poor therapeutic adherence according to the MARS scale. A comparison between the non-adherent patient group and the adherent patient group (Table 2) showed that the latter were significantly more likely to be female (p=0.00) and have a good socioeconomic status (p=0.05). They were also more likely to live with their families (p=0.04) and be more aware of their condition compared to non-adherent patients (p=0.00). Regarding therapeutic characteristics, significant differences between the two groups included the type of antipsychotic medication (p=0.00), treatment supervision (p=0.00), quality of family support (p=0.03), and patients assessment of the treatment (p=0.00) Conclusion: Compliance is a complex and dynamic phenomenon whose definitions and evaluation methods are multiple and non-consensual and the factors are numerous, interacting with each other.
SOCIAL CAPITAL OF THE PEASANTS IN BANGLADESH: CHANGES AND CHALLENGES
Authors:   Professor, Department of Sociology, University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh., Shafikuzzaman Joarder , PhD Md. , Imtiaz S.M. ,   Associate Professor, Department of Sociology, University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh.
Published: May 2024

The aim of the study was to analyze changes in social capital among Bangladeshi peasants over the past decade, with a specific focus on their social relations and reciprocal arrangements. A mixed-methods approach was employed to gather comprehensive data for this study. The findings reveal that bridging social relationships between peasants and local elites has not shown any promising trend. Economic inequality and discrimination in accessing education, healthcare, and job opportunities are significant factors that contribute to the increasing distance between different groups. The reciprocal relationships among peasants have become more distant, particularly with the local elites. Economic inequality, politically biased hierarchical structures, and discrimination in accessing education, healthcare, and job opportunities all contribute to the increasing distance between different groups. Overall, peasant communities in Bangladesh have experienced a decline in social capital, which is crucial for sustaining agrarian relations and agricultural production systems.
LE DISPOSITIF DE CONSULTATION DE CRISE A LUNITE MEDICO PSYCHOLOGIQUE DES ADOLESCENTS AU CENTRE HOSPITALIER DE RODEZ : ETUDE TRANSVERSALE DE LA POPULATION DES MINEURS ACCOMPAGNES
Authors: El Ouazzani Kaoutar , Chatagner Aurelien , Herera Mario , Aabbassi Bouchra , Manoudi Fatiha
Published: May 2024

Introduction:Since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, and particularly since the beginning of 2021, there has been an increase in visits to emergency departments for mood disorders, suicidal gestures and thoughts, and even suicide attempts among adolescents. The crisis consultation service, which is linked to the child psychiatry department, was created to meet the growing demand for rapid interventions for minors. It provides assistance to adolescents aged 10 to 16 and their families in crisis situations requiring swift evaluation. Treatment does not exceed 3 months and aims to offer an alternative to hospitalization by providing outpatient care only during the crisis period. Objective:The aim of this study is to observe the characteristics of the population served by this service and to explore the connections between the data in order to formulate hypotheses regarding its specificities. Methods:We conducted a cross-sectional study using data collected during evaluations conducted during interviews with adolescents received at the facility between October 2021 and September 2023, taking into account various sociodemographic data, the reason for consultation, and the subsequent follow-up. Results:There was greater activity in the service during the school term. The average age of our patients was 14.04 with a female predominance of 69%. Suicidal ideation was the most common reason for consultation, found in 35.6% of cases 19% of adolescents were referred for emergency hospitalization. Conclusion:Our study has allowed us to establish a sociodemographic profile and identify certain trends observed within the Crisis Consultation Center (DCC) of the Rodez Hospital, particularly the diversity of reasons for consultation. At a time when the health crisis is impacting the mental health of the entire population and increasing wait times for treatment, this service has an important role to play in the possible reorganization of mental health care offered by psychiatric medical centers.
A STUDY ON INCIDENCE OF ZYGOMATICOFACIAL FORAMEN IN DRIED HUMAN SKULLS OF NORTH INDIAN POPULATION
Authors:   Professor, Anatomy, Pt. B.D. Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana, India., Singroha Ritu , Verma Usha ,   Associate Professor, Anatomy, Pt. B.D. Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana, India., Kanta Rathee Suresh ,   Senior Professor & Head, Anatomy, Pt. B.D. Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana, India., Agrawal Soujanya ,   PG Student, Anatomy, Pt. B.D. Sharma PGIMS, Rohtak, Haryana, India.
Published: May 2024

Background: Zygomaticofacial foramen is present on the lateral surface of zygomatic arch near its orbital border. It transmits the Zygomaticofacial nerve and vessels. A significant amount of variation has been reported in the incidence of Zygomaticofacial foramen among different population due to the regional variance in anthropometry of humans. Objective: The main objective behind this study was to assess the differences in the incidence of Zygomaticofacial foramen in adult dried human skulls of North Indian population. Methods: The study was carried out at Department of Anatomy, PGIMS Rohtak on 70 dried human skulls, out of which 44 skulls were of males and 26 skulls were of females. The zygomatic arch of skull was studied for the frequency variations of Zygomaticofacial foramen from no foramina to as many as four foramina. Results: It was found that frequency of single and double foramina and absence of foramina was more in males, whereas frequency of triple and four foramina was more in females. Frequency of double and triple foramina was more on right side, whereas frequency of single and four foramina and absence of foramina was more on left side. Conclusion: The anatomical knowledge of the frequency variations of Zygomaticofacial foramen is essential for surgeons in various surgical procedures.
The mediating effect of employee engagement and well-being on turnover intention in Indonesia
Authors: Mega Desiana Putri , Stepanus Andrias Mone , Sekar Ahyinaa Gyandra
Published: May 2024

Employee turnover is challenging for firms, and it is usually fueled by employee stress due to their heavy workload. To minimize turnover, firms can implement various initiatives, such as employee well-being and employee engagement programs. Previous studies have examined the influence of work stress, employee engagement, or employee well-being separately on turnover intention. By exploring these factors simultaneously, this study aims to explain the roles of employee well-being and engagement as mediators in alleviating the impact of work stress on turnover. Data were collected from 425 employees working in various economic sectors (e.g., finance, education, research and development, retail, and business) in Indonesia and analyzed using the structural equation modeling (SEM) with the Lisrel 8.8 software. The results confirmed that work stress and employee engagement are factors that can directly influence turnover intention. Nevertheless, employee well-being does not have a direct impact on reducing turnover. The role of employee engagement in mediating the impact of work stress and employee well-being on turnover intention has been proven to be significant. This indicates that the company can withstand the stress that leads to employee turnover by creating jobs that make employees enthusiastically enjoy their work. Furthermore, company initiatives to create employee well-being will only be effective if those initiatives encourage employee engagement. Based on these findings, companies can develop strategies to reduce employee turnover. This can be achieved by prioritizing work stress management and improving employee well-being and engagement.
Recent Review on Herbs and Medicinal Plant-based Nanotechnological Approach in Treating Psoriasis
Authors: Patel Alka , Jain Parag , Thakur Akanksha , Ajazuddin
Published: May 2024

Psoriasis is a long-term inflammatory skin condition that is caused by a typical proliferating
keratinocytes that emerge as substantial scaly, red and fragile patches. Although in current
therapy, conventional treatments usually involve topical corticosteroids, immunosuppressants,
and phototherapy, these therapies have restrictions and undesirable consequences. Nanotechnology
provides significant novel opportunities for enhancing drug distribution and clinical effectiveness.
The study focuses on a novel herb-based nanotechnological technique in treating psoriasis.
The application of nanotechnology in herbal products has the potential to enhance the bioavailability,
stability, and controlled administration of active substances, hence maximizing therapeutic
outcomes and minimizing undesirable effects. Niosomes, liposomes, and nanoemulsions facilitate
the penetration of herbal extracts such as aloe vera, turmeric, neem, and chamomile into the skin
layers, along with providing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory effects. This
novel approach has the potential to strengthen therapeutic results, reduce adverse effects, and increase
patient compliance. Also, the application of herbal extracts is consistent with the growing
trend of natural and alternative healthcare treatments.
Nanotechnology Enabled Advances in Oral Delivery of Therapeutic Peptides: Mechanistic Insights for Translation to Clinic
Authors: Raval Harshvardhan M. , Sangave Preeti C.
Published: May 2024

Peptides represent a rapidly expanding class of novel treatments with distinct pharmacokinetic
properties when compared to macromolecular proteins or small-molecule medications.
Peptides are polymers with a molecular mass of less than 10 kDa. Protein-protein interactions
have been the primary goal of oral delivery of peptide drugs for the last two decades. Recent
trends suggest the possibility of mechanistically targeting challenging binding interfaces with the
right binding affinity and specificity for molecules like peptides that bring conformational flexibility.
Over 80 peptide medications have received regulatory approval to treat a range of conditions,
from human immunodeficiency infection caused by viruses to fatal diseases like cancer. This review
covers the need for peptide delivery via the oral route and offers insights to overcome the
challenges. For successful translation to the clinic, oral delivery of therapeutic peptides coupled
with nano formulation strategies has gained increased attention in recent years. The role of permeation
boosters, and digestive enzyme inhibitors to overcome major hurdles such as degradation in
the gastrointestinal tract and low intestinal permeability are presented here. Alteration of physicochemical
characteristics of peptide molecules, the addition of functional excipients to specifically
designed drug delivery systems, nanoformulation approaches, amongst other recent methodologies,
to increase the oral bioavailability of peptide medications, are also presented herein. Numerous
peptide candidates, both approved and under clinical trials, are included in this review.
Peat reclamations of the Pre-Roman Iron Age and Roman Iron Age: Drainage ditch systems and settlement patterns in the province of Friesland, the Netherlands
Authors: Bakker M. , De Langen G.J.
Published: May 2024

In the northern Netherlands, the fringes of the peat area adjacent to the salt marshes, with their well-known terp settlements, have been reclaimed and settled since the middle of the Pre-Roman Iron Age. Over time, settlement gradually expanded deeper into the peat area, until the reclaimed peat lands, like most of the salt marshes, were abandoned over the course of the Late Roman Iron Age. In the province of Friesland, two large areas with traces of these early peat reclamations have recently been researched using a combination of modern digital elevation maps and old aerial photographs dating back to the 1940s and 1950s. It proved possible to map 1100 km of former ditches and 508 possible archaeological sites, of which 453 locations had not previously been known. Further research could confirm that 135 of the 508 possible sites are sites of former settlements, of which 65 definitely back to the Pre-Roman Iron Age or the Roman Iron Age and 59 most likely or possibly date back to these periods. The remaining 354 locations still need to be researched, but based on various archaeological indicators, 176 of these could very well be sites dating back to the Pre-Roman Iron Age or Roman Iron Age. Of the mapped former ditches, 413.1 km proved to have been part of artificial drainage systems dating back to the Pre-Roman Iron Age or Roman Iron Age, and a large landscape feature could be identified as a former artificial embankment dating back to the same time period. Although much research is still needed, based on the current dataset it can be concluded that the early peat reclamations were intensively drained, densely settled and well organized. It seems very unlikely that these reclamations were only seasonally occupied, in contrast to what has been claimed by other researchers. Instead, it is much more likely the primary motive behind the early peat reclamations was the creation of an agricultural landscape that was suitable for mixed farming and inhabited year-round.
REQUISITE OF SUB-ATTRIBUTES FOR SMART CITY CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
Authors: Azmi Nurul Afiqah , Rozman Ahmad Tajjudin , Sukereman Anis Syazwani , Wijayaningtyas Maranatha
Published: May 2024

A smart city requires citizen participation and key metrics such as smart city elements and performances. This paper aims to identify the sub-attributes for smart city elements and performances that required the formation of the conceptual framework. This research has studied the past literature related to smart city studies and citizen’s needs from the Smart City. This research continues the study by identifying two categories of variables which are Smart City elements and Smart City performance. The investigation of past literature shows that Smart City elements consist of eight attributes namely Administration, Social, Infrastructure and Utilities, Transport, Technology, Human, Economy and Environment. The result of past studies also determines that constructs that are important to Smart City performance are Quality of Life, Resource Management and Economic Competitiveness.  To ensure the success of smart city initiatives, this study provides sub-attributes of smart city elements and performance that can assist policymakers and government in selecting the best criteria for sub-attributes for a smart city conceptual framework.
IS COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN URBAN PLANNING IN ISKANDAR MALAYSIA EFFECTIVE ENOUGH? A QUALITATIVE EXPLORATION
Authors: Zanudin Khalid , Abdullah Yusfida Ayu , Bidin Zafikha Aida , Yakob Hamizah , Zhang Andi
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of community participation in planning and operational decision-making in Iskandar Malaysia. The Iskandar Malaysia region consists of four local planning authorities who are responsible for planning and managing the spatial development in the region. Conceptually, effective community participation helps the local planning authority to make better decisions, hence, providing a sustainable and quality living environment. The study employed in-depth interviews to gather insights into the phenomenon from various key actors to address the questions. Following the 31 interviews performed, it is suggested that the effectiveness of community participation; and the incorporation of community interest in Iskandar Malaysia are substantially influenced by functional variables such as collaboration between stakeholders, community access to information and process, and intergovernmental relationships in planning. Structural and cultural variables include the skill and professionalism of public planners, the capability to influence, public awareness and knowledge, and community representation.
Influence of Cypermethrin and Chelating Properties of 2r, 4c-Bis(p-Methoxyphenyl)-7c-(t- Butyl)-3-Azabicyclo (3.3.1) Nonan-9-One Oxime on Ultra structure of Gill and liver
Authors: Jayachandran K. , Susiladevi M. , Deepa C.
Published: May 2024

The toxic effects of cypermethrin on the ultrastructure of the gills and liver of the freshwater fish Labeo rohita's gills and liver were studied. The purpose was to see if pesticide concentrations and exposure time influenced the degree and nature of ultrascture alterations in exposed fish's gills and liver. Selected fish were exposed to a mixture of 5% concentrations of the LC50 of cypermethrin for both short and long periods of time. The gills and liver of specimens subjected to 120 hours experienced similar hyper structural alterations. Clearly indicating a harmful response to both pesticide doses. These ultra structural changes included lesions such as oedema in the primary and secondary lamellae, fusion of neighbouring secondary lamellae, and epithelial layer lifting, hyalinization, hepatocyte vacuolation, cellular swelling, and blood vessel congestion. The amount of the exposure period, however, had an effect on the degree of these hyper structural alterations.
Sensor properties of heterocyclic compound with nanoparticles – molecular docking studies
Authors: Josephine J. Lesy , Thanikamani K. , Ramanathan P.
Published: May 2024

Quenching and enhancing behaviour of 1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-(4-methylnaphthalen-1-yl)-1H-phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazole (MMPI) with Cu –doped ZnO nanoparticle has been studied. MMPI has been characterized by 1H, 13C NMR and mass spectral analysis.  Cu –doped ZnO nanoparticle have been synthesised by sol-gel method and characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectra (EDS). Quenching and enhancing behaviour were confirmed by the MMPI strongly binding on the surface of Cu –doped ZnO nanoparticle. Increasing concentration of nanoparticle into MMPI results in enhances absorbance and quenching fluorescence was observed. Fluorescence quenching was confirmed electron transfer from excited state of MMPI to nanoparticle. Theoretical calculations were performed by Gaussian -03 package. In order to understand the binding interaction with DNA docking study has been carried out.
Pengaruh Pendapatan Perkapita Terhadap Jumlah Uang Beredar di Indonesia
Authors: Widayati Nurfiza , Zulfikar Akbar Lufi , Mahardika Swadia Gandhi
Published: May 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui seberapa besar pengaruh dari Pendapatan perkapita terhadap Jumlah Uang Beredar di Indonesia. Teori yang digunakan yaitu dari Teori John Maynard Keynes dan teori Marshall. Penelitian ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan alat analisis Regresi Sederhana, pengujian hipotesis dengan menggunakan Uji t. pengujian hipotesis dengan uji t yaitu untuk melihat pengaruh variabel independen secara individual terhadap variabel dependen, pada variabel Pendapatan Perkapita (X) diperoleh hasil signifikan, Berarti hal ini menunjukan bahwa variabel Pendapatan Perkapita berpengaruh terhadap Jumlah Uang Beredar (Y)
Kapabilitas Kampus Dalam Pengembangan Manajemen Sumber Daya Manusia (MSDM) Sebagai Wadah Mewujudkan Keahlian Mahasiswa
Authors: Saputra Andrian
Published: May 2024

This study discusses the topic of Human Resource Management and Skills, with a focus on the role of higher education institutions in optimizing and enhancing students' skills in management and organization. The aim is to find out the extent of the correlation between campus and HRM. The research method was carried out using a library literacy approach. Management of resources that are managed in order to oversee human resources in the lecture environment. By all means and efforts of human resources available in organizations/agencies it is very important to define all potential students who have an impact on organizational and campus efforts to achieve goals. The concept of human resource management on campus will provide insight into shaping quality and play an important role in building the image of the best quality graduates. Human resource management on campus can also be the driving force for creating faculty enthusiasm along with the faculty's courage to face it. The prospect is positive and provides something useful for the development of education. as well as for the environment in which they are located, so that the existence of lecturers and students is expected to remain a light and role model as academics who are able to change the mindset of society so that they develop and progress along with the development of the modern era. Through efforts to acquire skills as academics and knowledge.
The Use of Text Messaging as an Adjunct to Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder in Youth: Secondary Analysis
Authors: Walters Clarice , Gratzer David , Dang Kevin , Laposa Judith , Knyahnytska Yuliya , Ortiz Abigail , Gonzalez-Torres Christina , Moore Lindsay P , Chen Sheng , Ma Clement , Daskalakis Zafiris , Ritvo Paul
Published: May 2024

Background

As an established treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is now implemented and assessed in internet-based formats that, when combined with smartphone apps, enable secure text messaging. As an adjunct to such internet-based CBT (ICBT) approaches, text messaging has been associated with increased adherence and therapeutic alliance.

Objective

This study analyzed data from the intervention arm of a randomized control trial evaluating 24-week ICBT for MDD (intervention arm) against standard-care psychiatry (waitlist control). The aim of this secondary analysis was to assess MDD symptom improvement in relation to the frequency and content of text messages sent by ICBT participants to Navigator-Coaches during randomized control trial participation. Higher text frequency in general and in 3 conceptual categories (appreciating alliance, alliance building disclosures, and agreement confirmation) was hypothesized to predict larger MDD symptom improvement.

Methods

Participants were young adults (18-30 years) from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health. The frequencies of categorized texts from 20 ICBT completers were analyzed with respect to MDD symptom improvement using linear regression models. Texts were coded by 2 independent coders and categorized using content analysis. MDD symptoms were measured using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II).

Results

Participants sent an average of 136 text messages. Analyses indicated that BDI-II improvement was negatively associated with text messaging frequency in general (β=–0.029, 95% CI –0.11 to 0.048) and in each of the 3 categories: appreciating alliance (β=–0.096, 95% CI –0.80 to 0.61), alliance building disclosures (β=–0.098, 95% CI –0.28 to 0.084), and agreement confirmation (β=–0.076, 95% CI –0.40 to 0.25). Altogether, the effect of text messaging on BDI-II improvement was uniformly negative across statistical models. More text messaging appeared associated with less MDD symptom improvement.

Conclusions

The hypothesized positive associations between conceptually categorized text messages and MDD symptom improvement were not supported in this study. Instead, more text messaging appeared to indicate less treatment benefit. Future studies with larger samples are needed to discern the optimal use of text messaging in ICBT approaches using adjunctive modes of communication.

Trial Registration

Clinical Trials.gov NCT03406052; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03406052
Examining the Role of Information Behavior in Linking Cancer Risk Perception and Cancer Worry to Cancer Fatalism in China: Cross-Sectional Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Zhang Lianshan , Jiang Shaohai
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Reducing cancer fatalism is essential because of its detrimental impact on cancer-related preventive behaviors. However, little is known about factors influencing individuals’ cancer fatalism in China.

OBJECTIVE

With a general basis of the extended parallel process model, this study aims to examine how distinct cancer-related mental conditions (risk perception and worry) and different information behaviors (information seeking vs avoidance) become associated with cancer fatalism, with an additional assessment of the moderating effect of information usefulness.

METHODS

Data were drawn from the Health Information National Trends Survey in China, which was conducted in 2017 (N=2358). Structural equation modeling and bootstrapping methods were performed to test a moderated mediation model and hypothesized relationships.

RESULTS

The results showed that cancer risk perception and cancer worry were positively associated with online health information seeking. In addition, cancer worry was positively related to cancer information avoidance. Moreover, online health information seeking was found to reduce cancer fatalism, while cancer information avoidance was positively associated with cancer fatalism. The results also indicated that the perceived usefulness of cancer information moderated this dual-mediation pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

The national survey data indicate that cancer mental conditions should not be treated as homogeneous entities, given their varying functions and effects. Apart from disseminating useful cancer information to encourage individuals to adaptively cope with cancer threats, we advocate for health communication programs to reduce cancer information avoidance to alleviate fatalistic beliefs about cancer prevention.
Patients’ Perspectives on the Data Confidentiality, Privacy, and Security of mHealth Apps: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Alhammad Nasser , Alajlani Mohannad , Abd-alrazaq Alaa , Epiphaniou Gregory , Arvanitis Theodoros
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Mobile health (mHealth) apps have the potential to enhance health care service delivery. However, concerns regarding patients’ confidentiality, privacy, and security consistently affect the adoption of mHealth apps. Despite this, no review has comprehensively summarized the findings of studies on this subject matter.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review aims to investigate patients’ perspectives and awareness of the confidentiality, privacy, and security of the data collected through mHealth apps.

METHODS

Using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted in 3 electronic databases: PubMed, Ovid, and ScienceDirect. All the retrieved articles were screened according to specific inclusion criteria to select relevant articles published between 2014 and 2022.

RESULTS

A total of 33 articles exploring mHealth patients’ perspectives and awareness of data privacy, security, and confidentiality issues and the associated factors were included in this systematic review. Thematic analyses of the retrieved data led to the synthesis of 4 themes: concerns about data privacy, confidentiality, and security; awareness; facilitators and enablers; and associated factors. Patients showed discordant and concordant perspectives regarding data privacy, security, and confidentiality, as well as suggesting approaches to improve the use of mHealth apps (facilitators), such as protection of personal data, ensuring that health status or medical conditions are not mentioned, brief training or education on data security, and assuring data confidentiality and privacy. Similarly, awareness of the subject matter differed across the studies, suggesting the need to improve patients’ awareness of data security and privacy. Older patients, those with a history of experiencing data breaches, and those belonging to the higher-income class were more likely to raise concerns about the data security and privacy of mHealth apps. These concerns were not frequent among patients with higher satisfaction levels and those who perceived the data type to be less sensitive.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients expressed diverse views on mHealth apps’ privacy, security, and confidentiality, with some of the issues raised affecting technology use. These findings may assist mHealth app developers and other stakeholders in improving patients’ awareness and adjusting current privacy and security features in mHealth apps to enhance their adoption and use.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO CRD42023456658; https://tinyurl.com/ytnjtmca
The use of UGM’s eLOK as a Student Learning Outcomes Evaluation Platform
Authors: Marvianto Ramadhan Dwi , Mustika Haryanti , Kusumawardani Sri Suning
Published: May 2024

The use of online platforms in testing is a necessity nowadays, especially in an academic context. The platform used in UGM, namely eLOK, provides a testing facility which enable the lecturers to simultaneously see the results of the test evaluations and questions directly from the platform. However, there haven’t been any studies that compare the evaluation results using UGM’s eLOK with other approaches. Therefore, this study compared evaluation results from UGM’s eLOK with the Classical Test Theory (CTT) and Item Response Theory 2-Parameter Logistics (IRT 2-PL) approach using the Graded Response Model (GRM). This study included 22 active students who took the test using the UGM’s eLOK platform in the Multivariate Statistics course during the even semester of 2020/2021 academic year. The results of the analysis showed that the evaluation using the UGM’s eLOK platform had close equivalence with the CTT approach, although each parameter’s value was slightly different. In addition, the results of the IRT analysis were found to have far differences with the other two methods, but these results only slightly reflect the actual parameters due to the minimal number of subjects. The results of this study can be used as a reference in using UGM’s eLOK as a student academic testing platform, where lecturers are able to evaluate the quality of the tests and items given to test.