bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficiency of regional export support measures and their influence on investments
Authors: Kireenko A. P. , Sodnomova S. K.
Published: July 2024

Regions are active participants of foreign economic activity, with their contribution to the total export being significant. Therefore, data analysis of the volume and structure of exports and investments is important for determining the efficiency of support measures and for elaborating a further development strategy. A review of scientific sources demonstrates the role of investment and government support in stimulating exports. This article examines the efficiency of regional export support measures and their correlation with investments. Statistical data on exports, investments, and government support measures from 2012 to 2022 is compared. The research demonstrates the performance of the Irkutsk Region Export Support Center in the following spheres: in supporting exporters in concluding export contracts, in stimulating export activities of small and medium-sized enterprises, in engaging new exporters in foreign economic activities, as well as in promoting export diversification. Data on the increase in the share of nonresource, non-energy goods in the structure of the region exports confirms the efficiency of the undertaken supporting measures. The performance of the Export Support Center indicates its increasing popularity and efficiency. Moreover, the increasing number of exporters and the volume of export contracts demonstrates the positive impact of supporting measures on the export sector development and regional economy competitiveness. After considering the three main drivers of economic performance, i.e., consumer demand, exports, and investment, it can be concluded that the regional authorities use levers of influence over the latter two factors.
Improving the efficiency of the state youth policy by a project management method (on the example of the Irkutsk Oblast)
Authors: Snetkov D. A. , Alekseeva T. V. , Timchuk O. G.
Published: July 2024

This study addresses the feasibility of adopting the Strategy of Youth Entrepreneurship Development in the Irkutsk Oblast for the period of up to 2030 in the context of digital economy. According to relevant data, specific features of youth entrepreneurship are outlined, and the necessity of its systemic support by regional executive and legislative authorities is noted. In the context of academic discourse on youth policy, an analysis of possible directions for launching various initiatives is conducted. Areas to be considered include civic initiatives, strengthening security measures, protecting, overcoming social exclusion, information enrichment, integration of modern technologies, and support in professional selfdetermination. Such multidimensional interventions seek to expand the horizons for young people and to promote their active social, economic, and cultural integration into public life. Particular attention is paid to the importance of supporting social and entrepreneurial youth projects, which form the basis for the development of digital economy and the small-business sector in the Russian state. The research methodology included comparative-legal and historical approaches, the method of deduction and induction, and a formal-legal approach with the application of other scientific cognition methods. Additionally, the conclusion is made that the improvement of youth policy in the context of youth entrepreneurship is possible only based on a comprehensive approach. The latter implies supporting measures of the current legislation, as well as the formation of a positive public opinion on the entrepreneur image through a specialized youth community, such as a Club of young entrepreneurs.
Forecasting the life cycle of reinforced concrete structures in severe climatic conditions
Authors: Pinus B. I.
Published: July 2024

The article considers the problem of design forecasting of the life cycle of reinforced concrete structures operated in severe climatic conditions using the methodology of limit states. The authors propose to use the reliability index β, conditionally regulated by the norms for design limit states, as a criterion index of the functional suitability of structures. The kinetics of the reliability index β during cyclic freezing and thawing is evaluated by means of multifactor periodic experimental control of strength and deformability indices in frozen and thawed states. Testing was conducted using prismatic (100×100×400 mm) and cubic (100 mm) specimens of the B25 mature concrete (180 days), F270 frost resistance grade. In this case, the parametric failure of an element was identified by the moment when the criterion parameter reached the threshold value. The threshold is extablished (with the required level of reliability) by normative functional models of the limit state, transformed to a form describing the dependence of the concrete resistance parameter on the value of the estimated force and section parameters. Test intervals were determined considering the specificity of concrete frost degradation as a multistage process of structural adaptability, as well as microcrack formation and accumulation. Statistical aspects of resistance parameters were identified from experimental data using the maximum likelihood method and Pearson’s criterion (χ2) in assessing their consistency with the theoretical distribution. Additional transient design situations that consider the thermal-moisture state of the structures are considered. The presented experimental data confirmed the feasibility of the proposed approach.
Future trends in Fintech and sustainability: Empirical study
Authors: Mohd Al_hazimeh Amer , Walid Al-Smadi Raed , Walid Al-Smadi Arkan
Published: July 2024

This study delves into the potential direct impact of Fintech adoption, regulatory environment, technological infrastructure, and customer trust on the competitiveness of Fintech solutions. The study employs a questionnaire to gather data from 228 respondents in Jordan aged 18 or older, who were aware of Fintech and were selected through social media and other relevant channels. The outcomes from the Smart PLS path analysis reveal that Fintech adoption significantly impacts the competitiveness of Fintech solutions, supported by regulatory influence and technological infrastructure. Customer trust is crucial, fostering competitiveness through security, transparency, and reliability in Fintech services. Notably, the study contributes theoretical insights by underscoring the pivotal role of cultural acceptance in the dynamics of Fintech adoption and trust. From a practical standpoint, the findings suggest the formulation of tailored strategies for diverse markets, with an emphasis on trust, and an adaptation of product development to align with cultural nuances. However, the study acknowledges limitations and underscores the importance of longitudinal and comparative research to comprehensively grasp the cultural influences on Fintech.
Course of Niemann – Pick disease type A/B in the context of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Melnikova I. M. , Pavlikov A. A. , Borisova E. K.
Published: July 2024

Niemann – Pick disease type A/B (NPAB) is a rare severe inherited disease from the group of accumulation diseases with a defect in the acid sphingomyelinase gene (Niemann-Pick disease types B, A/B) (ASMD). Symptoms of damage to the nervous system and internal organs manifest in infancy, leading to disability, fatalities in childhood. NPAB is so far incurable. Optimal management of the disease requires a multidisciplinary team of physicians, specialists. The basis of therapy is the elimination of existing/forming complications, symptomatic treatment. Enzyme replacement therapy as a means of modifying the course of this disease is expected to slow down the progression of pathologic manifestations of the disease not related to the central nervous system lesions. Single cases of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) have been described in the treatment of ASMD, which is one of the new methods aimed at normalizing the level of acid sphingomyelinase, blood parameters, as well as reducing the severity of pathological visceral manifestations. However, the development of complications during HSCT, absence of positive therapeutic effect in severe CNS lesions does not allow to widely implement this method. Taking into account the contradictory data on the efficacy of HSCT in ASMD, further clinical studies are required. Analysis of 2 clinical cases of NPAB in children from the same family allowed us to reveal differences in the course and outcomes of the disease at verification of the diagnosis at birth followed by HSCT. Difficulties in diagnosing this extremely rare pathology, which requires a multidisciplinary approach, justify the need to improve methods of early diagnosis, including the organization of genetic risk determination, introduction of prenatal genetic testing before pregnancy.
Multi-level dynamic zoning design to improve the restorative capability of resilience: An emergence response in water contamination flushing
Authors: Liu Jun , Wang Hongpeng , Zhang Qingzhou , Wan Yunchang , Zhao Dahai , Wei Daoling , Hou Yukun
Published: July 2024

The conventional district metered areas (DMAs) bounded by closed valves reduce space of emergency response actions to cope with system failure or emergency events for resilience improvement. In order to improve the restorative capability of a zoning water distribution system (WDS), a novel dynamic DMA optimization design method and a coupled emergency response strategy are proposed. A multi-level zoning method is applied to determine optimization of water source areas (WSAs), pressure management areas (PMAs), and dynamic DMAs. A coupled emergency response strategy of WDS zoning, valve closure, hydrant flushing, and dynamic DMA adjustment is proposed and validated in a real large-scale water distribution network. The results show that the coupled emergency response strategy based on dynamic DMA can enhance capacity for dynamic emergency response and improve resilience during contamination flushing.
cambiante territorio hidrosocial del Área Metropolitana de Guadalajara, México
Authors: McCulligh Cindy
Published: July 2024

El objetivo de este artículo es analizar la problemática del agua en el Área Metropolitana de Guadalajara a partir de un acercamiento desde la ecología política que aprovecha los lentes conceptuales del territorio hidrosocial. A través de una investigación cualitativa basada en entrevistas semiestructuradas, observación participante y análisis documental, se exploran los intereses y las visiones divergentes que se expresan en una serie de conflictos que han marcado los intentos de las autoridades del agua por aumentar el abastecimiento de agua al Área Metropolitana de Guadalajara. Se indagan las prácticas institucionales, las tecnologías hidráulicas utilizadas, los impactos sociales y ambientales y los imaginarios territoriales en disputa en estos conflictos. Se argumenta que la degradación de la calidad de las fuentes y cuerpos de agua no puede ser soslayada en el análisis de los entramados del agua urbana y se concluye que los conflictos han puesto en jaque el modelo técnico e institucional predominante de la gestión del agua de los actores estatales.
Discursos, ideas normativas heterogéneas y (sub)representación sustantiva de las personas indígenas en la Cámara de Diputados
Authors: Zamora Belmontes Paulina Gabriela , Espejel Espinoza Alberto
Published: July 2024

Este artículo se enfoca en la (sub)representación sustantiva de las personas indígenas en el ámbito legislativo y los discursos legislativos en México. A partir del nuevo institucionalismo discursivo, se examina la representación sustantiva de las personas indígenas y los discursos e ideas de legisladoras/es de la LXIV Legislatura (2018-2021) al respecto. De este modo, se analizan discursos e ideas, escritos y hablados, en tres momentos del proceso legislativo: iniciativas, dictámenes e intervenciones en el Pleno. Para el análisis se utilizó el software ATLAS.ti. Se encontró que hay ideas discriminatorias, de indiferencia y desconocimiento sobre las/os indígenas, así como ideas normativas de cercanía, orgullo y empatía. Se concluye que la representación sustantiva de las personas indígenas en la LXIV Legislatura fue reducida porque únicamente se aprobaron diez iniciativas. La limitación de esta investigación radica en que sólo se estudiaron los discursos coordinativos, y no los comunicativos, ya que únicamente se analizaron los discursos de las/os diputadas/os.
Navegar é preciso, viver não é preciso
Authors: Costa Camila
Published: July 2024

Este artigo explora a necessidade de desenvolvimento de uma ética intercultural da informação no contexto da cultura algorítmica. À medida que a tecnologia continua a avançar e os algoritmos desempenham um papel cada vez mais significativo nas vidas humanas, é crucial considerar as implicações éticas desses sistemas a partir da pluralidade de perspectivas, culturas, realidades socioeconômicas e de gênero e raça. A partir do método indutivo-dedutivo, a abordagem metodológica é a revisão não sistemática da literatura. Ao examinar aspectos da cultura algorítmica para entender melhor os possíveis preconceitos e desafios da tomada de decisões por parte de sistemas algorítmicos resultantes da extração de dados em massa e do colonialismo de dados. Esta pesquisa visa contribuir para o desenvolvimento de uma abordagem mais inclusiva e equitativa à cultura algorítmica a partir da lente da ética intercultural da informação. Tal abordagem inclusiva e equitativa da cultura algorítmica pode ajudar a resolver os preconceitos culturais e evidenciar vieses nos processos de tomada de decisão automatizada. Ao considerar diferentes perspectivas, podemos esforçar-nos pela criação de algoritmos mais justos, promovendo a igualdade de oportunidades e resultados para indivíduos de diferentes origens. Esta pesquisa também pretende lançar luz sobre a necessidade de algoritmos culturalmente sensíveis que respeitem e protejam os direitos de privacidade e dados individuais em várias culturas. Tais reflexões críticas são feitas principalmente a partir dos problemas éticos provocados por algoritmos na cultura algorítmica.
Tuberculin Skin Test Reactivity among Health Care Workers in the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba South-east Nigeria
Authors: Ogu Cornelius , Ebenezar Chiemela , Nwaogwugwu Obioma , Ogu Rita , Nduka Ijeoma
Published: July 2024

Background

Tuberculosis is one of the infections targeted for eradication and is still under surveillance. Hospital workers in Nigeria take little or no precautions against tuberculosis while attending to patients.

Objectives

This research aimed to study the prevalence of the reactivity of positive Tuberculin Skin Tests among healthcare workers in a Nigerian University Teaching Hospital.

Methods

Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained from the participants. Two hundred and ten consented participants were recruited for this study, while 185 contributed till the end. The Tuberculin Skin Test was conducted following the standard operating procedures. The chi-square test was used to compare the variable at a significant level of P < 0.05. Of those who received a BGC vaccine < 3 years, 4.8% were excluded from the analyses.

Results

Mean ± SD of participants’ age was approximately 30 ± 8 years. Participants comprised 87 (47%) males and 98 (53%) females. The modal age group was 21-25 years. Most participants were clinical medical students, 93(50.3%), while doctors, 7 (3.8%), were second to least. The prevalence of positive reactivity to the Tuberculin Skin Test was 29.9%. There was no significant difference observed regarding sexes and positive reactivity. A significant difference was found in reactivity ≥ 10 mm between those who didn’t receive BCG and those who received BCG vaccine ≥ 10 years before the study.

Conclusion

Healthcare workers can be potential active TB patients and reservoirs. We recommend highly sensitive and specific periodic TB screening, prophylactic treatment, and re-vaccination of Health Care Workers in Nigeria.
Assessment of utilizing solar energy to enhance the performance of vertical aeroponic farm
Authors: Jassim E.
Published: July 2024

Abstract. The manuscript presents the significance of utilizing renewable energy in vertical aeroponic farming system. Components such as the tower garden, the solar panels, the water pump, and the control unit are integrated and designed to generate sufficient solar energy to power the system. The environmental conditions inside the chamber are optimized for plant growth, to maintain 18-24 °C temperature and relative humidity of 75-85 %. The paper also discusses the challenges, limitations, and future recommendations for improving the system. Finally, the paper provides some future recommendations for improving the design and performance of the solar powered vertical farm.
Li-ion batteries life cycle from electric vehicles to energy storage
Authors: RASHID Muhammad
Published: July 2024

Abstract. Vehicle electrification is an emerging solution to reduce fossil fuel dependence and the environmental pollution caused by automobile emissions. Electric vehicles (EVs) are powered by Li-ion batteries which degrade with use and time, and once their state of health (SOH, ratio of current capacity to the initial capacity) reaches 80% they retire from the EVs and need a replacement. In this study, battery degradation behaviour has been investigated and demonstrated under different electrical and thermal loading conditions. A different rate of cell degradation has been observed with different environmental and electrical loading conditions. The rate of degradation of the cells is higher at low temperatures and at high current charging conditions. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that the temperature of the cells within a battery module is different across the 6S2P battery module which would be significantly higher in the case of a bigger battery module. Hence for the potential second-life applications of the retired electric vehicle batteries, knowing the correct cell SOH is highly essential to grouping them which will lead to optimized use of this battery in 2nd life applications.
A review of the renewable energy technologies and innovations in geotechnical engineering
Authors: ISMAEEL Eman J. Bani
Published: July 2024

Abstract. The recent trend in the energy sector is seeking eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions. In the last few years, the globe has given attention to renewable energy resources to overcome the depletion problems of fossil fuels and take advantage of abundant natural resources such as solar, wind, and natural gas. Renewable energy resources provide a long-term efficiency solution in different applications. This review paper comprehensively reviews recent advancements in renewable energy technologies and innovations, focusing on solar energy, wind energy development, smart grid technologies, and energy storage solutions for a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Sustainability policies and regulation challenges in recycling EV batteries
Authors: KHALIL Afnan
Published: July 2024

Abstract. The increasing use of electric vehicles has brought the critical issue of recycling the batteries of electric cars to the forefront. This paper explores the challenges posed by current recycling policies, emphasizing the gaps in regulations and the pressing need for effective authorities involvement. The complications surrounding the recycling policies of electric car batteries are explored, shedding light on the disadvantages that may restrict successful implementation. The paper underscores the importance of addressing these challenges to ensure sustainable and responsible management of electric car batteries, emphasizing the shared responsibility between authorities, manufacturers, and other stakeholders. Examining existing policies and identifying areas for improvement will contribute to the ongoing discourse on developing comprehensive and effective electric car battery recycling frameworks and a sustainable and environmentally responsible approach to the end-of-life management of electric vehicle batteries. Recommendations on how to address this crucial issue are also presented.
Plan estratégico disruptivo de innovación para una universidad usando "La casa de la calidad"
Authors: Figueroa Donayre Edgardo Martin , Mantari Laureano José Luis , Loayza Cuadra Edgard , Zubilete Rivera Julio , Medina Raya Francisco , Morales Grados María Eugenia
Published: July 2024

Un plan estratégico para la innovación es una herramienta imprescindible para cualquier institución académica. El presente plan estratégico disruptivo de innovación maximiza el valor y beneficios para las instituciones públicas y privadas usando el marco lógico y la casa de la calidad. Con el marco lógico de actuación se tiene claro los datos de entrada para la planificación, el resto de actividades la casa de la calidad (diseño de producto, diseño de proceso y el control de proceso) es directo. La casa de la calidad es la técnica más efectiva para entender y hasta cuantificar el valor de propuestas. Además, aplicado a una universidad, asegura la obtención de fondos (dinero) que soporten e impulsen el desarrollo de la innovación al priorizar la voz del cliente (Innovate).
Market-based estimates of the natural real rate: evidence from latin american bond markets
Authors: Eggert Christensen Jens Henrik , Ceballos Luis , Romero Damian
Published: July 2024

We provide market-based estimates of the natural real rate, that is, the steady-state short-term real interest rate, for Brazil, Chile, and Mexico. Our approach uses a dynamic term structure finance model estimated directly on the prices of individual inflation- indexed bonds with adjustments for real term and bond-specific liquidity premia. First, we find that inflation-indexed bond liquidity premia in all three countries are sizable with significant variation. Second, we find large differences in their estimated equilibrium real rates with Brazil’s being large and volatile, Mexico’s stable, but elevated, while Chile’s is low and has fallen persistently.
Minimally invasive ureteral reimplantation: trends in regions of the Russian Federation and The Republic of Belarus. Multi-center study
Authors: Akramov N. R. , Baranov Yu. V. , Bondarenko S. G. , Dubrov V. I. , Kagantsov I. M. , Karpachev S. A. , Kogan M. I. , Kuzovleva G. I. , Pirogov A. V. , Rudin Yu. E. , Sablin D. E. , Sizonov V. V. , Smyrov O. S.
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Until recently, open ureteral reimplantation was considered the gold standard for the surgical treatment of ureterovesical junction (UVJ) pathologies. The introduction of minimally invasive ureteral reimplantation (MIUR) for the treatment of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) and primary obstructive megaureter (POM) in children started in the 1990s. However, studies describing national trends in the use of minimally invasive and open approaches in the surgical treatment of UVJ pathology in children are limited.

Objective. To describe changes in the use of MIUR and open ureteral reimplantation (OUR) between 2007 and 2022 in some regions of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus and compare the results and complication rates of the two surgical approaches. 

Materials & methods. The study includes 1273 patients (1793 ureters), operated on for UVJ pathology in the period from 2007 to 2022. MIR was performed in 1356 (75.6%) ureters (913 for VUR and 443 for POM). The studied parameters included an annual amount of reimplantation, the age of patients, the frequency of intra- and postoperative complications, as well as the medium-term results of operations.

Results. The use of MIUR techniques has increased significantly over time, and in 2022, seventy-five percent of surgeries were performed using MIUR. Analysis of the rate of adoption of MIUR by clinics showed that those that began using it first experienced a significant increase in frequency of use after 4 to 6 years, while those that started later took 2 to 3 years to achieve a significant positive trend. There were 5 (0.4%) intraoperative complications in the MIUR group. All these complications were classified as grade I according to the Satava grading system. There was no significant difference between MIUR and OUR in terms of postoperative complication rates (6.6% vs. 7.6%, p = 0.8). The efficiency of reimplantation was 96.6% in the MIUR group compared to 95.9% in the OUR group for POM and 96.2% in the MIR group compared to 94.6% in the OUR for VUR.

Conclusion. In the regions of Russia involved in the study, there has been a trend towards completely replacing open surgery with minimally invasive techniques. Regarding complication rates and efficacy, MIUR is not significantly different from OUR.
Economic analysis of the use of holmium enucleation of the prostate and laparoscopic simple prostatectomy in the surgical treatment of large-volume prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Volkov S. N. , Pushkar D. Yu. , Kolontarev K. B. , Stepanchenko V. S. , Tereshchenko V. I. , Dzharimok A. R. , Shevyakina A. E. , Daurov M. A.
Published: July 2024

Introduction. The method of choice for surgical treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) with a volume of more than 80 сс is holmium enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP). However, laser enucleation of the prostate is associated with limitations that carry both a clinical and financial burden. Laparoscopic simple prostatectomy (LSP) has now emerged as an alternative to transurethral procedures. In addition to ensuring clinical efficacy, optimal approaches to surgical management of large-volume BPH must also be financially viable, which underlines the significance of this study.

Objective. To conduct a comparative economic analysis of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate and laparoscopic retropubic simple prostatectomy combined with temporary clamping of the internal iliac arteries and vesicourethral anastomosis (LSP + TCA + VUA).

Materials & methods. An economic analysis of the results of HoLEP (214 people) and LSP + TCA + VUA (215 people) was conducted in a multicenter, open-label study. The economic analysis aimed to calculate the direct costs associated with surgery, as well as indirect costs related to hospitalization. A comparative analysis of drug prescriptions was conducted, including an assessment of costs for conservative treatment during hospitalization and the postoperative period. The economic losses associated with the duration of patients' temporary disability were calculated as the total loss in gross domestic product (GDP) production.

Results. The cost of basic surgical equipment was 15,701,000.0 and 36,927,827.0 rubles (₽) for LSP + TCA + VUA and HoLEP, respectively. The median direct costs for performing LSP + TCA + VUA and laser enucleation HoLEP was 54,990.6 [49,870.5; 67,850.8] and 69,158.9 [65,005.9; 72,351.7] ₽, respectively. The median of indirect costs in the LSP + TCA + VUA and HoLEP groups was 71,251.0 [68,039.0; 73,103.0] and 80,451.0 [74,423.0; 83,501.0] ₽, respectively. The indicators of lost profits in GDP production per person were 5,398.4 and 6,167.9 ₽ in the LSP + TCA + VUA and HoLEP groups, respectively.

Conclusion. The rationale for the use of LPA + VPA + UCA in the surgical treatment of large-volume BPH is based on economically justified advantages compared with HoLEP.
Ultrasound-guided renal cavity puncture simulators: comparative characterisation and validation
Authors: Gadjiev N. K. , Mishchenko A. A. , Gorelov D. S. , Britov V. P. , Kharchilava R. R. , Semenyakin I. V. , Petrov S. B.
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Teaching the skill of renal cavity puncture remains a pressing issue for both resident trainees and practicing physicians. Because patient-based training is ethically questionable and can be unsafe in terms of complications, training models have been created to practice skills.

Objective. To compare two non-biological simulators for renal cavity puncture under ultrasound guidance: “UROSON”, GEOTAR, Russia and the kidney phantom “SafeToAct”, Estonia.

Materials & methods. The study involved 40 young doctors with no experience in kidney puncture. Group 1 (20 people) practised on the UROSON simulator (GEOTAR, Russia). Group 2 (20 people) trained on a kidney phantom (SafeToAct, Estonia). Both simulators were evaluated by doctors before and after practice, as well as in the long-term period for 3 and 6 months. The assessment was carried out using a Likert scale.

Results. The UROSON was rated higher (p < 0.05) according to the results of the comparison of the parameters (colour and consistency, visualisation of the cavity and calyx on ultrasound). Renal cavity visualisation of the UROSON simulator was rated as "good" throughout the study. Visualisation deteriorated by 6.9% after six months of use. Meanwhile, the SafeToAct kidney phantom showed a 64% deterioration in visualisation after one month of use. The SafeToAct kidney phantom was not evaluated later point because it became unusable. Both simulators had "tracks" after punctures. The UROSON had 30% and the SafeToAct kidney phantom 100% (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion. The UROSON simulator can be used for training, master classes and accreditation of specialists. This simulator can be used for a long time.
Comparative evaluation of bioavailability of Botulinum toxin A complexed with Tizol (titanium glycerosolvate aquacomplex) versus pure Botulinum toxin A solution for bladder mucosa: an experimental study
Authors: Poroyskiy S. V. , Perlin D. V. , Srussovskaya O. G. , Goncharov N. A. , Kuznetsov A. A. , Morozov E. A.
Published: July 2024

Introduction. For the treatment of overactive bladder syndrome (OAB), injection of botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) has been shown to be effective. However, there is a need for a less invasive method for administering BoNT-A, which could significantly expand the treatment options for OAB.

Objective. To assess the impact of tizol on the absorption of BoNT-A by the bladder mucosa and compare it to the individual absorption of BoNT-A.

Materials & Methods. Dialysis through the mucous membrane of the сalf bladder was used as an experimental model to study changes in bioavailability of BoNT-A complexed with tisol (BoNT-A + T) and pure BoNT-A solution during in vitro experiment. After dialysis, the BoNT-A concentration in both samples was determined using a spectrophotometer. Dialysis curves were plotted according to the data obtained. Kruvchinsky equilibrium dialysis method was used to determine botulinum toxin A bioavailability. The UV spectrophotometry method was used to determine the concentration of BoNT-A in the acceptor medium by reaction of BoNT-A with Benedict's reagent.

Results. It was established that the maximum concentration of BoNT-A diffused into the acceptor medium from the blend of the test substance with tizol after nine hours. The area under the curve for dialysis of BoNT-A + T exceeds the area under the curve of pure BoNT-A by almost 20%, suggesting an improvement in the drug's bioavailability when blended with tizol.

Conclusion. Based on our experiment, it was found out that the BoNT-A + T has greater bioavailability than a solution of pure BoNT-A. However, the diffusion rate of the component mixture is sufficiently low.
Cultural and Contextual Adaptation of Digital Health Interventions: Narrative Review
Authors: Naderbagi Aila , Loblay Victoria , Zahed Iqthyer Uddin Md , Ekambareshwar Mahalakshmi , Poulsen Adam , Song Yun J C , Ospina-Pinillos Laura , Krausz Michael , Mamdouh Kamel Mostafa , Hickie Ian B , LaMonica Haley M
Published: July 2024

Background

Emerging evidence suggests that positive impacts can be generated when digital health interventions are designed to be responsive to the cultural and socioeconomic context of their intended audiences.

Objective

This narrative review aims to synthesize the literature about the cultural adaptation of digital health interventions. It examines how concepts of culture and context feature in design and development processes, including the methods, models, and content of these interventions, with the aim of helping researchers to make informed decisions about how to approach cultural adaptation in digital health.

Methods

Literature searches for this narrative review were conducted across 4 databases. Following full-text article screening by 2 authors, 16 studies of interventions predominantly focused on the self-management of health were selected based on their detailed focus on the process of cultural adaptation. Key considerations for cultural adaptation were identified and synthesized through a qualitative narrative approach, enabling an integrative and in-depth understanding of cultural adaptation.

Results

The literature demonstrates varying approaches and levels of cultural adaptation across stages of intervention development, involving considerations such as the research ethos orienting researchers, the methodologies and models used, and the resultant content adaptations. In relation to the latter, culturally appropriate and accessible user interface design and translation can be seen as particularly important in shaping the level of adaptation.

Conclusions

Optimizing cultural adaptation involves linking culture with other contextual factors such as economic conditions and social systems to ensure accessibility and the sustained use of digital health interventions. Culturally humble approaches that use the involvement of a broad range of participants, experts, and other stakeholders are demonstrated to spark vital insights for content development, implementation, and evaluation.
Overdose Detection Among High-Risk Opioid Users Via a Wearable Chest Sensor in a Supervised Injecting Facility: Protocol for an Observational Study
Authors: Tas Basak , Lawn Will , Jauncey Marianne , Bartlett Mark , Dietze Paul , O'Keefe Daniel , Clark Nico , Henderson Bruce , Cowan Catriona , Meredith Osian , Strang John
Published: July 2024

Background

Opioid overdose is a global health crisis, affecting over 27 million individuals worldwide, with more than 100,000 drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2022-2023. This protocol outlines the development of the PneumoWave chest biosensor, a wearable device being designed to detect respiratory depression in real time through chest motion measurement, intending to enhance early intervention and thereby reduce fatalities.

Objective

The study aims to (1) differentiate opioid-induced respiratory depression (OIRD) from nonfatal opioid use patterns to develop and refine an overdose detection algorithm and (2) examine participants’ acceptability of the chest biosensor.

Methods

The study adopts an observational design over a 6-month period. The biosensor, a small device, will be worn by consenting participants during injecting events to capture chest motion data. Safe injecting facilities (SIF) in Melbourne, Victoria (site 1), and Sydney, New South Wales (site 2), which are legally sanctioned spaces where individuals can use preobtained illicit drugs under medical supervision. Each site is anticipated to recruit up to 100 participants who inject opioids and attend the SIF. Participants will wear the biosensor during supervised injecting events at both sites. The biosensor will attempt to capture data on an anticipated 40 adverse drug events. The biosensor’s ability to detect OIRD will be compared to the staff-identified events that use standard protocols for managing overdoses. Measurements will include (1) chest wall movement measured by the biosensor, securely streamed to a cloud, and analyzed to refine an overdose detection algorithm and (2) acute events or potential overdose identified by site staff. Acceptability will be measured by a feedback questionnaire as many times as the participant is willing to throughout the study.

Results

As of April 2024, a total of 47 participants have been enrolled and data from 1145 injecting events have already been collected, including 10 overdose events. This consists of 17 females and 30 males with an average age of 45 years. Data analysis is ongoing.

Conclusions

This protocol establishes a foundation for advancing wearable technology in opioid overdose prevention within SIFs. The study will provide chest wall movement data and associated overdose data that will be used to train an algorithm that allows the biosensor to detect an overdose. The study will contribute crucial insights into OIRD, emphasizing the biosensor’s potential step forward in real-time intervention strategies.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/57367
A Simple and Systematic Approach to Qualitative Data Extraction From Social Media for Novice Health Care Researchers: Tutorial (Preprint)
Authors: Pretorius Kelly
Published: July 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

Social media analyses have become increasingly popular among health care researchers. Social media continues to grow its user base and, when analyzed, offers unique insight into health problems. The process of obtaining data for social media analyses varies greatly and involves ethical considerations. Data extraction is often facilitated by software tools, some of which are open source, while others are costly and therefore not accessible to all researchers. The use of software for data extraction is accompanied by additional challenges related to the uniqueness of social media data. Thus, this paper serves as a tutorial for a simple method of extracting social media data that is accessible to novice health care researchers and public health professionals who are interested in pursuing social media research. The discussed methods were used to extract data from Facebook for a study of maternal perspectives on sudden unexpected infant death.
An Artificial Intelligence–Based App for Self-Management of Low Back and Neck Pain in Specialist Care: Process Evaluation From a Randomized Clinical Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Marcuzzi Anna , Klevanger Nina Elisabeth , Aasdahl Lene , Gismervik Sigmund , Bach Kerstin , Mork Paul Jarle , Nordstoga Anne Lovise
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Self-management is endorsed in clinical practice guidelines for the care of musculoskeletal pain. In a randomized clinical trial, we tested the effectiveness of an artificial intelligence–based self-management app (selfBACK) as an adjunct to usual care for patients with low back and neck pain referred to specialist care.

OBJECTIVE

This study is a process evaluation aiming to explore patients’ engagement and experiences with the selfBACK app and specialist health care practitioners’ views on adopting digital self-management tools in their clinical practice.

METHODS

App usage analytics in the first 12 weeks were used to explore patients’ engagement with the SELFBACK app. Among the 99 patients allocated to the SELFBACK interventions, a purposive sample of 11 patients (aged 27-75 years, 8 female) was selected for semistructured individual interviews based on app usage. Two focus group interviews were conducted with specialist health care practitioners (n=9). Interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Nearly one-third of patients never accessed the app, and one-third were low users. Three themes were identified from interviews with patients and health care practitioners: (1) overall impression of the app, where patients discussed the interface and content of the app, reported on usability issues, and described their app usage; (2) perceived value of the app, where patients and health care practitioners described the primary value of the app and its potential to supplement usual care; and (3) suggestions for future use, where patients and health care practitioners addressed aspects they believed would determine acceptance.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the app’s uptake was relatively low, both patients and health care practitioners had a positive opinion about adopting an app-based self-management intervention for low back and neck pain as an add-on to usual care. Both described that the app could reassure patients by providing trustworthy information, thus empowering them to take actions on their own. Factors influencing app acceptance and engagement, such as content relevance, tailoring, trust, and usability properties, were identified.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04463043; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04463043
Verification of Reliability of Automated Urine Test Strip Colorimetric Program Using Colorimetric Analysis: Quasi-Experimental Study (Preprint)
Authors: Inagaki Keigo , Tsuriya Daisuke , Hashimoto Takuya , Nakamura Katsumasa
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Background: Visual judgment is susceptible to human errors, such as evaluation item errors and judgment time variations. Automated Urine Test Strip Colorimetric testing may be used by practitioners and small-scale medical check-up facilities to test urine samples.

OBJECTIVE

Objective: We develop an automated urine test strip colorimetric program using images taken with a smartphone camera to judge the color of the urinalysis test strips objectively.

METHODS

Methods: To verify the program's reliability, we compare urine samples from real patients with the results of an automated urine analyzer.

RESULTS

Results: The concordance rate with the automated urine analyzer is 78.6% on average for 12 items. The concordance rate for the ±1 rank test is 95.4%. In addition, determining urinary albumin level results in a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 58.6%. The area under the curve derived from the ROC curve is 0.907.

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusions: The results clarified that colorimetric analysis in a fixed imaging environment could be used to determine urine test strips without calibration. This method may be used to screen for microalbuminuria, helping prevent exacerbation of diabetic nephropathy.
Correction: Feasibility of Multimodal Artificial Intelligence Using GPT-4 Vision for the Classification of Middle Ear Disease: Qualitative Study and Validation (Preprint)
Authors: Noda Masao , Yoshimura Hidekane , Okubo Takuya , Koshu Ryota , Uchiyama Yuki , Nomura Akihiro , Ito Makoto , Takumi Yutaka
Published: July 2024

UNSTRUCTURED
Digital Transformation in Healthcare - A Recent Progress and Applications of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare (Preprint)
Authors: Nadeem Neha , Rashid Zubia , Zafar Syeda Bushra , Yousaf Muhammad Zubair
Published: July 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing various healthcare sectors, enhancing diagnostic accuracy, patient care, and operational efficiency. However, there is a need for more involvement from healthcare stakeholders in promoting patient access, care, and compliance with digital therapeutics. This study aims to comprehensively analyze AI applications across different healthcare settings, including hospitals, dentistry, physical therapy, pharmacies, nursing, and medical laboratories. The study conducted a thorough literature review, using keywords to examine relevant articles from PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. The review content is not restricted by time but is limited to English-language articles. The study found a significant need for AI facilitation in dentistry, nursing, and midwifery. AI solutions tailored to these fields can benefit patient outcomes, streamline workflows, and reduce the burden on healthcare providers. The study also explores the extensive use of AI in advanced healthcare fields such as diagnostics, genetics, and forensics. It then compares AI with other digital health technologies in terms of data utilization, integration, clinical support decisions, and impact on patient care. Finally, it outlines future aspects that underscore the need for customized training programs, infrastructure development, and robust ethical and legal frameworks to guide the adoption of AI in healthcare settings, ensuring informed consent, patient privacy and data security.
A computational analysis of German online discourses about COVID-19 vaccinations to inform policy-making in times of crisis (Preprint)
Authors: Boland Katarina , Starke Christopher , Bensmann Felix , Marcinkowski Frank , Dietze Stefan
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Societies worldwide have witnessed growing rifts separating advocates and opponents of vaccinations and other COVID-19 countermeasures. With the rollout of vaccination campaigns, the German-speaking DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland), initially exhibited a noticeably low vaccination uptake compared to other European regions. Later, uptake increased. It remains unclear which factors contributed to these changes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to shed light on the intricacies of vaccine hesitancy among the German-speaking population and the possible dynamics between policy changes and public concerns using online discourse data.
These insights are valuable for policy-makers tasked with making far-reaching decisions: policies need to effectively curb the spread of the virus and at the same time respect fundamental civic liberties and minimize undesired consequences.

METHODS

This study draws on data from X , formerly Twitter.
We use a hybrid pipeline to detect and analyze 191,750 German vaccination-related tweets using a semi-automatic seed list generation approach, topic modeling, sentiment analysis, and a minimum of social scientific domain knowledge to analyze the discourse about vaccinations in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic.
We further analyze the evolution of public attention during different phases of the pandemic and in relation to policy changes to identify potential drivers of shifts in public attention.

RESULTS

We find that skepticism regarding the severity of the COVID-19 virus, towards efficacy and safety of vaccines and other medical concerns were among the prevalent topics in the discourse on Twitter but that the most attention was given to debating the theme of freedom and civic liberties. During the later phases of the pandemic, policies were implemented that restricted the freedom of unvaccinated citizens. During these phases, increased vaccination uptake could be observed, and the attention increasingly shifted from medical and other concerns towards questions of freedom and civic liberties.
Yet, increasingly negative and polarized sentiments were expressed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analyses suggest potential interactions between policies, public attention to different topics and associated sentiments. While vaccination uptake increased, our findings indicate that citizens' doubts and concerns did not decrease.
This study showcases the use of analyzing online discourse data for data-driven policy-making in highly dynamic contexts such as the COVID-19 pandemic where monitoring the discourse can serve to provide insights on suitable actions to properly and timely respond to citizens' concerns.