bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expressway traffic flow forecasting based on a combined model
Authors: Liu Lu , Li Caihong , Yang Yi , Wang Jianzhou
Published: November 2023

Accurate expressway traffic flow forecasting can provide reliable traffic flow forecasting data for traffic management departments and help them dispatch traffic resources rationally. However, the single model cannot accurately forecast complex traffic flow data. To improve the forecasting accuracy of expressway traffic flow, this paper proposes a combined forecasting model. The model not only uses principal component analysis (PCA) and a variety of data preprocessing methods to perform feature processing on original data, and selects four optimal models as the sub-models of the combined model based on the testing accuracy of six different models, but also uses the seagull optimization algorithm (SOA) and the grey wolf optimizer (GWO) to optimize the weights of the combined model, and by comparing the forecasting accuracy of the combined models to select an appropriate optimization algorithm for the combined model in this paper. The experiment results indicate that the proposed combined forecasting model obtains high accuracy and stability.
Information about the Validity of Darcy’s Law during Primary and Secondary Consolidation, obtained from an Oedometer Test with unusually accurate Pore Pressures
Authors: Schmertmann John H.
Published: November 2023

The writer explored the results from an unusual oedometer test performed at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST). The test included 4 increments of loading, 2 normal-consolidated (NC) and 2 over-consolidated (OC). These appear to show that Darcy’s Law for calculating permeability does not apply during secondary consolidation, and that an abrupt transition existed between primary and secondary consolidation in the Speswhite Kaolin tested. The abruptness increased during the transitions from NC to OC.
Prevalence and anti-bio gram of Enterococcus species in different samples: A cross-sectional study
Authors: AFROZ TURIN
Published: November 2023

Background: Enterococcus is routinely considered a low-grade pathogen. The synergistic action of enterococci with other bacteria increases infection. Enterococci are currently the next most familiar reason for healthcare-associated infections after E. coli. Greater understanding is needed regarding Enterococcus stress survival, virulence, and resistance patterns to assess the complexity of disease-causing Enterococcus.
Purpose: The expected impact of the study results from different causes of the prevalence of Enterococcus with endorsement.
Method and materials: A descriptive type of cross-sectional study was designed and carried out in the Department of Microbiology, BUHS, Dhaka for 3 months. A total of 11 urine and 16 postoperative pus samples were collected
Results: A total of 558 bacteria were isolated, of which the growth of Enterococcus spp. was 27 (4.83%). The prevalence of Enterococcus spp. among different samples was 4.83%. The number of highly sensitive strains ranging from 66.66% to 77.77%, namely gentamycin, ampicillin, amoxicillin, meropenem, moderately high sensitivity to levofloxacin (29.62%) and low sensitivity to doxycycline (14.81%) was analyzed.
Conclusions: The observations of the present study are very threatening for developing countries such as Bangladesh. The study recommends that antibiotics should be used after undertaking proper lab procedures and should be selected based on antimicrobial susceptibility tests.
Pathological complete response after conversion therapy of hepatocellular carcinoma: A retrospective study
Authors: Jia Junjun , Ding Chenyuan , Mao Mengjie , Gao Feng , Shao Zhou , Zhang Min , Zheng Shusen
Published: November 2023

Background
Hepatocellular carcinoma is a highly lethal tumor worldwide, and China, as a country with a high prevalence of liver disease, has a correspondingly high incidence and mortality rate of liver cancer. For patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma, the prognosis is often poor, making conversion therapy a necessary treatment option. The objective of this retrospective study was to investigate the effects of conversion therapies on these patients.
Methods
The study included patients between the ages of 18 and 75 who were initially diagnosed with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma and received conversion therapy. After completing surgery, the patients underwent pathological diagnosis, which showed complete necrosis. The study was conducted retrospectively at the First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, from January 2019 to December 2021. The main objectives of the study were to evaluate the overall survival and recurrence-free survival of these patients.
Results
A total of 60 patients who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled. The median age of the patients was 56.6 ± 9.5 years, and 85% of them were male. The one-year overall survival rate (OS) was 98.3%, and the three-year OS was 95.6%. The one-year recurrence-free survival rate (RFS) was 81.1%, and the three-year RFS was 71.4%. In subgroup analysis, there was no statistically significant difference in RFS between patients with BCLC stages 0-A and BCLC stages B-C (p = 0.296). Additionally, there was no statistically significant difference in RFS between patients who received postoperative new adjuvant therapy and those who did not (p = 0.324).
Conclusions
Conversion therapy followed by surgical resection could be a promising treatment for patients with initially unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma, and the prognosis is good with a pathological complete response.
A framework for integrating indoor air quality into the life cycle assessment of buildings: application to the sizing of ventilation rates
Authors: Bhoonah Rachna , Roux Charlotte , Peuportier Bruno
Published: November 2023

Purpose
Life cycle assessment (LCA) methods are used in building ecodesign, but do not currently consider indoor air quality (IAQ). Since we spend about 85% of our time indoors, and are exposed to potentially hazardous substances, IAQ is of particular importance to human health. Its consideration in LCA could help make adequate design choices (e.g. materials, window layouts or ventilation rates) and reduce the building’s impacts, while avoiding their transfer to other life cycle stages.
Methods
To address this gap, we propose a methodology combining building LCA and models that encompass the whole pollutant pathway, from emission to quantified impacts on human health using the disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) indicator. We account for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), emitted from materials and indoor activities. An optimal ventilation rate allowing to reduce overall IAQ and LCA impacts (namely from energy for space heating and ventilation fans) is identified. The framework’s applicability is demonstrated on a case study: different rooms having distinct uses, occupancy and activity patterns, lead to different emission rates, impacts and optimal ventilation rates. The influence of heat sources (gas, electricity, wood) on optimal rates is assessed and different window layouts for natural ventilation are tested.
Results and discussion
PM2.5 and heating are the main sources of impacts, respectively ranging from 40–94%, and 1–31% of total impacts of each room, which range from 2500 µDALY/year to 14200 µDALY/year. Rooms with higher indoor emissions have higher optimal ventilation rates: 1.2 ACH (air changes per hour), 2.9 ACH and 13.2 ACH in the meeting room, office and kitchen respectively. These rates also vary for different heat sources due to their different IAQ and LCA impacts: 2.7 ACH, 5 ACH and 15 ACH for coal (still a common fuel in rural Asian countries), gas and electric fan heating respectively in the living room. The combined use of double-flow ventilation to lower heating needs and filters that reduce PM2.5 concentrations leads to a 56% decrease in total impacts of the meeting room.
Conclusions
This study shows the applicability of the framework to building ecodesign. For instance, distinct optimal ventilation strategies can be devised, depending on the room or building use. The framework can also have a regulatory application in public health, through representative archetypes, by providing general recommendations in the tertiary and residential sectors.
Simultaneous analysis and design optimization for seismic retrofitting of hysteretic structures with fluid viscous dampers
Authors: Pollini Nicolò
Published: November 2023

This paper presents a novel optimization approach for retrofitting hysteretic structures with fluid viscous dampers. Two design scenarios are considered: structures with hysteretic behavior retrofitted with linear and nonlinear fluid viscous dampers. The size and placement of the dampers is defined using a simultaneous analysis and design (SAND) optimization approach based on nonlinear programming. The dampers' manufacturing cost is minimized, with constraints on the inter-story drifts. The optimization variables are the damping coefficients of the dampers and the structural response over time. In the proposed SAND approach, the equations of motion are treated as equality constraints of the optimization problem and are not solved directly with time-history analyses. Special design sensitivity analysis methods are not needed to calculate the gradients of the objective and constraint functions. We propose a continuation scheme on the design-driving inter-story drift constraints to effectively solve challenging problems. A sequence of sub-problems is solved considering relaxed limiting values for the drift constraints. These values are gradually decreased, and the solution obtained in each sub-problem is used as warm-start information for the subsequent sub-problem. The procedure ends when a solution that satisfies the desired limiting value of the constraints is found. The proposed approach is evaluated with reproducible numerical examples that highlight its flexibility and effectiveness.
RETRACTED: Comparative Analysis of Different Potassium Treatments on the Foliar Nutrient Composition of Hydroponically Grown Eggplant (Solanum melongena) in High-Tech Greenhouse
Authors: Shrestha Samir , Yadav Pankaj Kumar
Published: November 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Major determinants of Bitcoin price: Application of a vector error correction model
Authors: Jaya Hartono Dermawan , Suyanto Suyanto
Published: November 2023

Research in recent years has shown that Bitcoin is a virtual asset that is used as a medium of exchange and investment tool other than shares and bonds, the development of the digital era has opened up opportunities for Bitcoin to be chosen as part of an investor’s portfolio. The focus of this study is to examine the impact of nine key determinants on Bitcoin price. The data used in the study are daily data starting from January 1, 2018 to January 1, 2022. The main data source is taken from Investing.com, and the estimation method applied is the Vector Error Correction Model (VECM). The main finding shows that Bitcoin Volume impacts Bitcoin Price negatively, which is in line with the demand theory. Another finding is related to the substitute effect of Ethereum Volume, Litecoin Volume, and Gold Volume, each of which influences Bitcoin Price positively, suggesting that these three commodities are substitutes to Bitcoin. In contrast, whereas Oil Volume has an insignificant effect on Bitcoin price in the short term, it has a negative significant impact in the long term. In addition, LQ45 stock index Volume influences Bitcoin Price positively in the short term, suggesting that LQ45 stock index and Bitcoin substitute for each other. Moreover, Google Trends impacts Bitcoin price positively in the long term. In terms of the income effect, either the Indonesian GDP or US GDP has a strong positive effect on Bitcoin price in both the short and long term.
Classic techniques used in laser microsurgery of chronic diseases of the larynx: a literature review
Authors: Krivopalov A. A. , Shamkina P. A. , Glushchenko A. I.
Published: November 2023

The topicality of the issue of treating chronic diseases of the larynx is beyond dispute. Given the increased load on the vocal apparatus, no downward trend in disease incidence is observed. The percentage of patient visits to an otorhinolaryngologist with complaints of prolonged changes in voice timbre, vocal fatigue, and difficulties with voice control is 7–12%. Chronic productive formations of the larynx account for up to 55–70% of pathologies in the proliferative upper respiratory disease pattern. If not treated promptly, chronic diseases of the larynx can significantly affect a person’s ability to speak, swallow and breathe normally. Today, various methods for surgical treatment of chronic diseases of the larynx are used: both classical cold instruments and high-energy laser systems. The history of laser medicine dates from the late 1960s and is associated with the introduction of a high-intensity device emitting a photon stream in the infrared range into medical practice. The first carbon dioxide lasers were difficult to use (they were large in size and had complex technical settings), but at the same time they showed high resection and coagulation qualities, and it earned them their popularity. Over 3 thousand new laser devices representing a practical interest for laryngeal surgery have appeared on the medical market for more than 60-year period. Despite the fact that fundamental research demonstrates the positive results of phonosurgery with high-power devices, many otolaryngologists continue be in awe of lasers. The article presents the results of the use of traditional devices in phonosurgery for chronic diseases of the larynx and draws conclusions about the effectiveness and safety of high-power devices.
Vaccination as a tool for influencing the course of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Ignatova G. L. , Blinova E. V. , Antonov V. N.
Published: November 2023

Introduction. Repeated exacerbations play a leading role in the progression of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), contributing to an increase in the number of hospitalizations, a decrease in ventilation function of the lungs, and an increase in deaths.

Aim. To analyze the clinical efficacy of pneumococcal disease vaccine prophylaxis in patients with COPD in combination with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) during 5 years of follow-up.

Materials and methods. The study included patients (n = 113) with COPD and type 2 DM. The main parameters for evaluating the effectiveness of vaccination were the number of COPD exacerbations, including severe, requiring hospitalization of patients, the incidence of pneumonia, the dynamics of the severity of shortness of breath using the Modified Medical Research Council questionnaire – mMRC, the volume of forced exhalation in 1 second (FEV1), the dynamics of changes in laboratory indicators and prognostic indices BODEX, e-BODE, DOSE, ADO, CODEX. Pneumococcal conjugate 13-valent vaccine was used for vaccinoprophylaxis.

Results. It has been established that vaccination against pneumococcal disease in patients with COPD and type 2 DM allows not only to significantly reduce the number of COPD exacerbations (by 2.7 times), reduce the frequency of episodes of community-acquired pneumonia (by 8 times) and significantly reduce the number of hospitalizations, but also stabilize the main functional indicators of the respiratory system while maintaining clinical effectiveness during the 5-year follow-up period. The dynamics of prognostic indices in the group of vaccinated patients reliably confirms the effectiveness of pneumococcal disease vaccine prophylaxis programs and the survival rate of patients with a combination of COPD and type 2 DM.

Conclusion. The results of the study confirm that the vaccine prophylaxis of pneumococcal infection significantly reduces the risk of such undesirable events as exacerbations of COPD, pneumonia, hospitalization, and allows to stabilize the course of not only COPD, but also concomitant type 2 diabetes mellitus and thereby improve the prognosis for patients.
Therapy of acute rhinosinusitis in patients with allergic rhinitis: possibilities for implementing advanced control of inflammation
Authors: Svistushkin V. M. , Nikiforova G. N. , Kiselev A. B. , Chaukina V. A. , Shevchik E. A. , Kochetkov P. A.
Published: November 2023

Introduction. Allergic rhinitis (AR) in conjunction with acute infectious rhinosinusitis (ARS) can lead to increased inflammation and contributes to a more severe course of ARS.

Aim. To study the effect of some non-sedating H1-antihistamines on the severity of clinical presentations in adult patients with ARS and underlying AR as part of routine medical practice.

Materials and methods. Group 1 (75 patients) and Group 2 (85 patients) were generated through simple randomization from the patient population with ARS and underlying AR, who were prescribed benzhydryl-piperazinyl-butylmethylxanthine succinate (Teoritin® MF, 4 mg/day) or desloratadine (INN, 5 mg/day), respectively. The course of therapy was 14 days. The estimated parameters included changes in indices of nasal symptoms, rhinoscopic and non-nasal symptoms during follow-up visits, time to reach zero indices, the proportions of patients, whose symptoms reduced after 3 and 7 days of treatment, the need for the use of nasal decongestants and changes in quality of life measures.

Results and discussion. During the first 3 days of treatment, nasal breathing improved in 91% (95% CI 81–96%) of patients in Group 1 vs 56% (95% CI 45–67%) in Group 2, p < 0.001; rhinorrhea was relieved in 76% (95% CI 65–85%) and 62% (95% CI 51–72%) in Groups 1 and 2, respectively. By Day 7 of treatment, complete restoration of nasal breathing was observed in 71% of patients in Group 1 (95% CI 59–80%), and in 41% (95% CI 31–52%) in Group 2 (p = 0.014); rhinorrhea was relieved in 61%

(95% CI 49–72%) of patients in Group 1 and 37% (95% CI 27–48%) in Group 2, p = 0.001. Decongestants were used by 20%

(95% CI 12–31%) of patients in Group 1, and by 35% (95% CI 25–47%) of patients in Group 2, p = 0.031. The between-group difference was significant in terms of duration and frequency of adjuvant therapy, p < 0.05.

Conclusion. In comparison with desloratadine, it provided a more pronounced reduction of nasal and non-nasal symptoms, as well as relief of rhinoscopic signs of inflammation in a shorter time. The use of Teoritin® MF contributed to the reduction in the need (duration and frequency) for nasal decongestants.
Odors determition among the population of the regions of the Russian Federation: Cross-sectional study
Authors: Lebedeva G. V. , Svistushkin M. V. , Selezneva L. V. , Alekseenko E. V. , Kirsch I. A. , Morozova S. V. , Svistushkin V. M.
Published: November 2023

Introduction. Currently, the main way to assess olfactory disorders is olfactory tests. A necessary condition for adequate diagnosis is that the odors used in tests correspond to the sociocultural characteristics of the population; the identified flavors must be well recognizable. The use of unadapted tests distorts the results and leads to a false diagnosis of the pathology in a person with a normal sense of smell. The research for identification of the most known odors is an important stage in validation of the existing tests and in the development of new ones.

Aim. Determination odors in various regions of the Russian Federation.

Materials and methods: 3000 people from 8 federal districts of the Russian Federation took part in the study. This study was conducted using a questionnaire based on a Likert scale. The subject was required to assess his level of familiarity with each odor from the proposed list, assigning it a score from 1 to 5. In total, the questionnaire listed 100 names, including 16 names of odors, the standard set of the 3rd stage (assessment of identification ability) Sniffin’ Sticks Test, 40 names of odorants of the University of Pennsylvania Psychophysical Test (UPSIT) and 44 odors found in the everyday life of the population of our country.

Results. In the first 25 positions of the most recognizable smells, in descending order, there are: 1) coffee; 2) orange; 3) garlic; bleach; 5) mint; 6) tobacco smoke; 7) gasoline; 8) tangerine; 9) lemon; 10) smoke from a fire; 11) onion; 12) strawberry; 13) apple; 14) alcohol; 15) fish; 16) mown grass; 17) chocolate; 18) acetone; 19) banana; 20) hot bread; 21) rose; 22) lilac; 23) melon; 24) watermelon; 25) cucumber. Among the 16 odors of the 3rd stage of identification of the standard set “Sniffin’ Sticks Test” – 43.75% are included in the first 16 positions of recognizable odors of the Russian rating, and among the 40 odors of the UPSIT olfactory test – 52.5%.

Conclusions: This study showed which odors are well recognized by the Russian population and confirmed that cultural adaptation as a necessary procedure before routine use of olfactory tests.
Clinical efficacy of a triple combination of budesonide/ glycopyrronium bromide/formoterol in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Trushenko N. V. , Lavginova B. B. , Nuralieva G. S. , Avdeev S. N.
Published: November 2023

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a chronic condition characterized by persistent airflow limitation, caused by chronic inflammation in response to exposure to inhaled damaging particles or gases. Exacerbations of COPD lead to the progression of symptoms, worsening lung function, reduced physical tolerance, and, as a result, contribute to an increase mortality. Therefore, the prevention of exacerbations is a primary objective in the management of COPD. The foundation of COPD therapy involves prescribing long-acting bronchodilators, and for some patients, the use of anti-inflammatory agents, such as inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). ICS are used in combination with long-acting beta2-agonists (LABA) or as part of triple therapy (ICS/LABA/ LAMA). The choice of triple therapy depends on the patient’s exacerbation history, severity of symptom, level of peripheral blood eosinophilia, risk of infectious complications, and the presence of a concomitant diagnosis of bronchial asthma. Triple therapy offers advantages in terms of improving lung function, disease symptoms, reducing exacerbation frequency, and significantly decreasing mortality compared to other inhaled therapy options for COPD. A significant advantage of this therapy has been shown in patients with eosinophilic COPD. Currently, three combined inhalation medications containing ICS/LABA/LAMA are available for COPD treatment in our country. This review provides basic information on the clinical efficacy and safety profile of one of them, budesonide/glycopyrronium bromide/formoterol, in patients with various COPD phenotypes.
The use of antiseptic hydrogel in myringoplasty
Authors: Isachenko V. S. , Dvorianchikov V. V. , Tsydypova D. A.
Published: November 2023

In modern otomicrosurgery, there are significant successes of surgical treatment in the volume of tympanoplasty, but despite this, the problems of surgical treatment of chronic purulent otitis media are still relevant. One of the unsolved problems is the effective restoration of perforations of the tympanic membranemyringoplasty. The termination of infection of the tympanic cavity and the effect on the functional result of surgical treatment in chronic inflammatory diseases of the middle ear depends on the performance of this stage of tympanoplasty. The application of the layering method, the use of fascial-cartilage grafts, the formation of the neotimpanal membrane at the natural level is certainly the key to success in eliminating even total perforations of the tympanic membrane. However, it was noted that in the early postoperative period, the issue of effective flap vascularization and prevention of septic complications is of primary importance. Prolonged tamponade of the external auditory canal, the use of local and systemic antibacterial therapy reduces the risk of complications, but significantly increases the period of hospitalization, and hence the period of disability. It is observed that in large otorhinolaryngological surgical centers, mostly nonresident patients are in bed for several weeks. These patients are waiting for tamponade removal and evaluation of the effectiveness of surgical treatment, which, no doubt, is perceived positively from the point of view of the treatment process, but goes against the criteria for the effectiveness of specialized high-tech medical care. Therefore, many experimental and clinical studies have been conducted at present, which are aimed at finding an effective plastic material that contributes to the correct formation of the neotimpanal membrane, prevention of inflammation in the surgical wound area and shortening the period of engraftment of meattimpanal flaps. Considering the above, based on the latest data from domestic and foreign otorhinolaryngologists, in this article we offer our solution to the problem of effective performance of myringoplasty. It is noted that there is a need to study various materials for faster and more effective engraftment of the tissues of the tympanic membrane. The percentage of unsatisfactory morphological and functional outcomes, according to domestic and foreign authors, mainly in the plastic of suband total defects, remains high. The problem of surgical treatment of patients with chronic purulent otitis is of urgent importance for otosurgeons. The aim of the work was to study the use of biodegradable hydrogel in the healing of postoperative wounds in the surgery of chronic purulent otitis media. Description of a clinical case in a patient with chronic purulent otitis media using a biodegradable gel.
Inhaled nitric oxide: well-known and new therapeutic indications
Authors: Avdeev S. N. , Tsareva N. A. , Nekludova G. V. , Nuralieva G. S. , Merzhoeva Z. M. , Trushenko N. V. , Shmidt A. E. , Suvorova O. A. , Ataman K. S. , Kurkieva F. T. , Goroshkov A. V. , Khachaturov M. V. , Avdeev I. S. , Yaroshetskiy A. I.
Published: November 2023

The use of nitric oxide is widespread in medical practice. Inhaled form of NO in patients with respiratory disease is especially interesting. As an inhalation therapy, nitric oxide reaches well-ventilated areas of the lungs, having a negligible systemic effect due to its rapid inactivation in the bloodstream. It has long been known that inhaled NO improves oxygenation in various pathological conditions. Low doses of inhaled nitric oxide are known as a vasodilator in patients with pulmonary hypertension, its use is possible even in newborns with hypoxemic respiratory failure and persistent pulmonary hypertension. In turn, high doses are used in the treatment of infectious lung diseases, besides, another surge of scientific interest in nitric oxide arose during the coronavirus pandemic. Although the antimicrobial potential of nitric oxide is widely known, it is little used in clinical practice. Endogenous antimicrobial activity is largely mediated by high local concentrations of NO. Numerous preclinical studies have demonstrated that NO has general static and bactericidal activity against viruses, bacteria, protozoa and fungi/yeast in vitro. Due to the dose-dependent positive and negative effects of NO, safety and efficacy tests of NO and its donors are needed to assess their role in the prevention and treatment of infections. This review provides information on the chemical structure, features of metabolism and delivery of inhaled NO, and also pays special attention to the antimicrobial effect in various diseases of the pulmonological profile.
Multi-objective Stochastic Gradient Based ADR Mechanism for Throughput and Latency Optimization in LoRaWAN
Authors: R Swathika , Kumar S. M. Dilip
Published: November 2023

Background:

In Long Range Wide Area Networks (LoRaWAN), the goal of Adaptive Data
Rate (ADR) is to allocate resources to End Devices (ED) like Transmission Power (TP) and
Spreading Factor (SF). The EDs are designed in a way that they can choose optimal configuration
resource parameters from a set of LoRa physical layer parameters. The SF parameter
has to be chosen correctly, as an incorrect one may cause collisions and interference if multiple
nodes have the same SF. This paper focuses on throughput and latency optimization using an
effective ADR mechanism for LoRaWAN-based IoT networks.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to maximize the total throughput. SF should be used by multiple
nodes as it will have less Time on Air (ToA), but it may cause collision, contention, and
co-spreading factor interference problems. The idea is to find an optimal SF allocation to end devices
and the optimal number of total devices using the same SF to avoid collision and interference.

Methods:

This paper proposes a multi-objective stochastic gradient descent method to solve the constrained
optimization problem for optimizing throughput and latency.

Results:

This work compares throughput and latency results for the static, quasi-static, and dynamic
environments. Trade-offs between latency and throughput for the simulated scenarios are also presented.

Conclusion:

The simulation results show that the throughput obtained using this technique is higher
than the naive ADR approach and the existing gradient descent methods.
Model of teaching factory in vocational high school fashion program students
Authors: Ampera Dina , Tanjung Nurhayati , Farihah Farihah , Sinukaban Veronika Yulisna , Juliana Netty
Published: November 2023

The Fashion Design expertise program applies a teaching factory learning system to productive subjects, including Industrial Clothing. Judging from the planning and implementation, the teaching factory learning model in this subject has not run optimally. This study aims to: to determine the effectiveness of the teaching factory model for students of fashion as a learning model at State Vocational High School 1 Beringin. This type of research is descriptive qualitative with research and development methods. This research was conducted at State Vocational High School 1 Beringin, with the research subjects being teachers and students of the Fashion Design Expertise Program. The object of this research is teaching factory activities in productive subjects. Research on the development of the Teaching Factory learning model went through three stages, namely: 1) Needs analysis, 2) Product development, and 3) Expert Validation. The results of this study indicate that the Teaching Factory model has been effectively used in productive subjects such as industrial clothing with an assessment of 98.6% by material experts and 88% by design experts. After going through the validation stage by material experts and design experts, it can be concluded that the Teaching Factory learning model product developed has been effectively used as a learning model in productive subjects for students of the Dressmaking Expertise Program at Beringin 1 State Vocational High School
The foundation of english learning to equip vocational students in higher education to face industrial era 4.0
Authors: Pambudi Haryo Aji , Kaliaskarova Ainur
Published: November 2023

Industry 4.0, originally centered on manufacturing, has significantly evolved, influencing production and how individuals learn and develop skills. As vocational education is pivotal for skill development, it must swiftly adapt to the changing landscape of Industry 4.0, wherein English proficiency holds a crucial position. To enhance English learning effectively in preparation for the Industry 4.0 era, it is essential to understand the beliefs of vocational students, especially in higher education. This research utilized a survey method, employing a novel questionnaire to gauge these beliefs that can be useful information to shape the foundation of English learning. The study involved 258 students of the vocational program in higher education. The research findings demonstrated that the participants held positive beliefs concerning English learning. These favorable beliefs encompassed various aspects, including language learning methods, language skills with a focus on strategy awareness, the perception of English as integral to their careers, the utilization of authentic materials and technology as learning resources, the willingness to be self-directed learners, and the recognition of the life values acquired through English learning. Furthermore, the students held a functional view of language, underlining its practicality.
Clinicians’ Perspective on Implementing Virtual Hospital Care for Low Back Pain: Qualitative Study
Authors: Melman Alla , Vella Simon P , Dodd Rachael H , Coombs Danielle M , Richards Bethan , Rogan Eileen , Teng Min Jiat , Maher Chris G , Ghinea Narcyz , Machado Gustavo C
Published: November 2023

Background

Alternate “hospital avoidance” models of care are required to manage the increasing demand for acute inpatient beds. There is currently a knowledge gap regarding the perspectives of hospital clinicians on barriers and facilitators to a transition to virtual care for low back pain. We plan to implement a virtual hospital model of care called “Back@Home” and use qualitative interviews with stakeholders to develop and refine the model.

Objective

We aim to explore clinicians’ perspectives on a virtual hospital model of care for back pain (Back@Home) and identify barriers to and enablers of successful implementation of this model of care.

Methods

We conducted semistructured interviews with 19 purposively sampled clinicians involved in the delivery of acute back pain care at 3 metropolitan hospitals. Interview data were analyzed using the Theoretical Domains Framework.

Results

A total of 10 Theoretical Domains Framework domains were identified as important in understanding barriers and enablers to implementing virtual hospital care for musculoskeletal back pain. Key barriers to virtual hospital care included patient access to videoconferencing and reliable internet, language barriers, and difficulty building rapport. Barriers to avoiding admission included patient expectations, social isolation, comorbidities, and medicolegal concerns. Conversely, enablers of implementing a virtual hospital model of care included increased health care resource efficiency, clinician familiarity with telehealth, as well as a perceived reduction in overmedicalization and infection risk.

Conclusions

The successful implementation of Back@Home relies on key stakeholder buy-in. Addressing barriers to implementation and building on enablers is crucial to clinicians’ adoption of this model of care. Based on clinicians’ input, the Back@Home model of care will incorporate the loan of internet-enabled devices, health care interpreters, and written resources translated into community languages to facilitate more equitable access to care for marginalized groups.
Glycemic Control, Renal Progression, and Use of Telemedicine Phone Consultations Among Japanese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Retrospective Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Sankoda Akiko , Nagae Yugo , Waki Kayo , Sze Wei Thing , Oba Koji , Mieno Makiko , Nangaku Masaomi , Yamauchi Toshimasa , Ohe Kazuhiko
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Reduced or delayed medical follow-ups have been reported during the COVID-19 pandemic, which may lead to worsening clinical outcomes for patients with diabetes. The Japanese government granted special permission for medical institutions to use telephone consultations and other remote communication modes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate changes in the frequency of outpatient consultations, glycemic control, and renal function among patients with type 2 diabetes before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This is a retrospective single-cohort study conducted in Tokyo, Japan, analyzing results for 3035 patients who visited the hospital regularly. We compared the frequency of outpatient consultations attended (both in person and via telemedicine phone consultation), glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus during the 6 months from April 2020 to September 2020 (ie, during the COVID-19 pandemic) with those during the same period of the previous year, 2019, using Wilcoxon signed rank tests. We conducted a multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify factors related to the changes in glycemic control and eGFR. We also compared the changes in HbA1c and eGFR from 2019 to 2020 among telemedicine users and telemedicine nonusers using difference-in-differences design.

RESULTS

The overall median number of outpatient consultations attended decreased significantly from 3 (IQR 2-3) in 2019 to 2 (IQR 2-3) in 2020 (P<.001). Median HbA1c levels deteriorated, though not to a clinically significant degree (6.90%, IQR 6.47%-7.39% vs 6.95%, IQR 6.47%-7.40%; P<.001). The decline in median eGFR was greater during the year 2019-2020 compared to the year 2018-2019 (–0.9 vs –0.5 mL/min/1.73 m2; P=.01). Changes in HbA1c and eGFR did not differ between patients who used telemedicine phone consultations and those who did not. Age and HbA1c level before the pandemic were positive predictors of worsening glycemic control during the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas the number of outpatient consultations attended was identified as a negative predictor of worsening glycemic control during the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in reduced attendance of outpatient consultations among patients with type 2 diabetes, and these patients also experienced deterioration in kidney function. Difference in consultation modality (in person or by phone) did not affect glycemic control and renal progression of the patients.
Electronic Patient Portal Use Among People Living With HIV (Preprint)
Authors: Hall André , Devlin Samantha , Won Joshua , Schmitt Jessica , P Ridgway Jessica
Published: November 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

This quality improvement project examines the use of online patient portal use among people living with HIV and describes a brief intervention that was used to promote enrollment in patient portals.
Effectiveness of Technology-Based Interventions for School-Age Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials (Preprint)
Authors: Wong Ka Po , Qin Jing , Xie Yao Jie , Zhang Bohan
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is relatively common among school-age children. Technology-based interventions, such as computer-assisted training programs, neurofeedback training, and virtual reality, show promise in regulating the behaviors and cognitive functions of children with ADHD. An increasing number of randomized controlled trials have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of these technologies in improving the conditions of children with ADHD.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to conduct a systematic review of technological interventions for school-age children with ADHD and perform a meta-analysis of the outcomes of technology-based interventions.

METHODS

A total of 19 randomized controlled studies involving 1843 participants were selected from a pool of 2404 articles across 7 electronic databases spanning from their inception to April 2022. ADHD behaviors, cognitive functions, learning ability, and quality of life were addressed in this study.

RESULTS

Random effects meta-analyses found that children with ADHD receiving technology-based intervention showed small and significant effect sizes in computer-rated inattention (standardized mean difference [SMD] −0.35; P<.04), parent-rated overall executive function measured by the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (SMD −0.35; P<.04), parent-rated disruptive behavior disorder measured by the Child Behavior Checklist (SMD −0.50; P<.001) and Disruptive Behavior Disorder Rating Scale (SMD −0.31; P<.02), and computer-rated visual attention measured by the Continuous Performance Test (SMD −0.42; P<.001) and Reaction Time (SMD −0.43; P<.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Technology-based interventions are promising treatments for improving certain ADHD behaviors and cognitive functions among school-age children with ADHD.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO CRD42023446924; https://tinyurl.com/7ee5t24n
Validated Prediction Models of Nursing Home Utilization: A Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Han Eunkyung , Kim JinYong
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

There is a growing need to accurately anticipate and respond to various risks associated with care for older adults. There is a lack of risk prediction models developed and validated in the nursing home setting.

OBJECTIVE

This review was conducted to scope and synthesize the existing evidence on the validated prediction models in nursing home setting.

METHODS

PRISMA guideline extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) were used for study selection. PubMed and CINAHL databases were used to retrieve the studies. Articles published to Sep 30, 2023, were included.

RESULTS

A total of 17 papers were selected for final inclusion in this review. Outcomes of interest were hospitalization, fall, fall-related injury or fracture, NH related infection, pressure Injury, delirium, and mortality. Validation methods included internal validation(bootstrapping) and external validation calibration and discrimination). Reported C-statistics ranged from 0.6 to 0.8. MDS was mostly used as data source.

CONCLUSIONS

Nursing Homes are environments that can implement various prevention strategies to reduce the risk of deterioration in activities of daily living (ADLs) other than death, including fall-related injuries and fractures. Future research is needed to design and implement more personalized prevention strategies including considerations on pre-placement factors, quality of nursing home care, and risk scores calculated by validated prediction models.
A Computable Phenotype Algorithm for Postvaccination Myocarditis/Pericarditis Detection Using Real-World Data: Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Deady Matthew , Duncan Raymond , Sonesen Matthew , Estiandan Renier , Stimpert Kelly , Cho Sylvia , Beers Jeffrey , Goodness Brian , Jones Lance Daniel , Forshee Richard , Anderson Steven A , Ezzeldin Hussein
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Adverse events (AEs) associated with vaccination have traditionally been evaluated by epidemiological studies. More recently, they have gained attention due to the emergency use authorization of several COVID-19 vaccines. As part of its responsibility to conduct postmarket surveillance, the US Food and Drug Administration continues to monitor several AEs of interest to ensure the safety of vaccines, including those for COVID-19.

OBJECTIVE

This study is part of the Biologics Effectiveness and Safety Initiative, which aims to improve the US Food and Drug Administration’s postmarket surveillance capabilities while minimizing the burden of collecting clinical data on suspected postvaccination AEs. The objective of this study was to enhance active surveillance efforts through a pilot platform that can receive automatically reported AE cases through a health care data exchange.

METHODS

We detected cases by sharing and applying computable phenotype algorithms to real-world data in health care providers’ electronic health records databases. Using the fast healthcare interoperability resources standard for secure data transmission, we implemented a computable phenotype algorithm on a new health care system. The study focused on the algorithm's positive predictive value, validated through clinical records, assessing both the time required for implementation and the accuracy of AE detection.

RESULTS

The algorithm required 200-250 hours to implement and optimize. Of the 6,574,420 clinical encounters across 694,151 patients, 30 cases were identified as potential myocarditis/pericarditis. Of these, 26 cases were retrievable, and 24 underwent clinical validation. In total, 14 cases were confirmed as definite or probable myocarditis/pericarditis, yielding a positive predictive value of 58.3% (95% CI 37.3%-76.9%). These findings underscore the algorithm's capability for real-time detection of AEs, though they also highlight variability in performance across different health care systems.

CONCLUSIONS

The study advocates for the ongoing refinement and application of distributed computable phenotype algorithms to enhance AE detection capabilities. These tools are crucial for comprehensive postmarket surveillance and improved vaccine safety monitoring. The outcomes suggest the need for further optimization to achieve more consistent results across diverse health care settings.
Multi-Classification of Social Anxiety Disorder Symptom Severity Using Digital Phenotype and Feature Representation Learning (Preprint)
Authors: Choi Hyoungshin , Cho Yesol , Min Choongki , Kim Kyungnam , Kim Eunji , Kim Jae-Jin
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is characterized by heightened sensitivity to social interactions or settings, which disrupts daily activities and social relationships, leading to a decreased quality of life. This disruption often extends to a delayed onset of diagnosis and medical treatment. While digital phenotypes derived from daily behavioral patterns are known to effectively classify various mental states, the key predictive digital phenotypes for the diverse symptoms of SAD, particularly by severity, have not been explored.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the feasibility of utilizing digital phenotypes for predicting the severity of various clinical symptoms associated with SAD. Furthermore, it sought to elucidate how the main predictive digital phenotypes differed depending on the severity of these symptoms.

METHODS

We collected 511 behavioral and physiological data sets over a 2-week period from 27 SAD and 31 healthy controls using smartphones and smartbands, from which we extracted 76 digital phenotype features. To reduce data dimensionality, we employed an autoencoder, an unsupervised machine learning model that transformed these features into low-dimensional latent representations. Symptom severity was assessed with 3 social anxiety-specific and 9 additional psychological scales. For each symptom, we developed individual classifiers to predict its severity and applied integrated gradients to identify the critical predictive features.

RESULTS

Classifiers targeting social anxiety symptoms outperformed baseline accuracy, achieving mean accuracy and F1 scores of 87% (with both metrics in the range 84%-90%). For secondary psychological symptoms, classifiers demonstrated mean accuracy and F1 scores of 85%. Application of integrated gradients revealed key digital phenotypes with substantial influence on the predictive models, differentiated by symptom type and levels of severity.

CONCLUSIONS

This research demonstrates that leveraging digital phenotypes through feature representation learning can effectively classify symptom severities in SAD. It identifies distinct digital phenotypes associated with the cognitive, emotional, and behavioral dimensions of SAD, thereby advancing the understanding of the disorder. These findings underscore the potential utility of digital phenotypes in informing clinical management.