bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alya towards Exascale: Algorithmic Scalability using PSCToolkit
Authors: Owen Herbert , Lehmkuhl Oriol , D'Ambra Pasqua , Durastante Fabio , Filippone Salvatore
Published: June 2023

In this paper we describe some work aimed at upgrading the Alya code with up-to-date parallel linear solvers capable of achieving reliability, efficiency and scalability in the computation of the pressure field at each time step of the numerical procedure for solving a LES formulation of the incompressible Navier-Stokes equations. We developed a software module in the Alya's kernel to interface the libraries included in the current version of PSCToolkit, a framework for the iterative solution of sparse linear systems on parallel distributed-memory computers by Krylov methods coupled to Algebraic MultiGrid preconditioners. The Toolkit has undergone some extensions within the EoCoE-II project with the primary goal to face the exascale challenge. Results on a realistic benchmark for airflow simulations in wind farm applications show that the PSCToolkit solvers significantly outperform the original versions of the Conjugate Gradient method available in the Alya kernel in terms of scalability and parallel efficiency and represent a very promising software layer to move the Alya code towards exascale.
Is home environment associated with child general intellectual abilities in middle childhood in high-risk settings? Findings from a rural cohort in Pakistan
Authors: Rasheed Muneera , Nilsen Sondre Aasen , Strand Tor A. , Shaheen Fariha , Kvestad Ingrid
Published: June 2023

Background
A strong body of evidence from low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) suggests that home environment is associated with early childhood development outcomes. However, studies from LMIC that have examined the similar role of home environment with later cognitive abilities during middle childhood are scarce. The objective of the study was to explore the association between different aspects of the home environment and intellectual abilities at 7-8 years in a rural, high-risk cohort in Pakistan.
Methods
We employed a cross-sectional research design to examine 1172 children between 7-8 years and their families, utilizing the Home Observation for Measurement of Environment for Middle Childhood (HOME-MC) to evaluate various aspects of the home environment and the Fluid Reasoning Index (FRI) of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) 5th edition to gauge the intellectual abilities of the children. Multivariable regression analyses were used to examine the association between different indices of HOME-MC and FRI.
Findings
Learning materials and opportunities subscale (β = 1.74, 95% CI= 1.15, 2.33) had the strongest association with FRI score followed by Responsivity (β = 1.73, 95% CI=1.07, 2.38) and Family companionship (β = 1.27, 95% CI=.63, 1.90). The eight different indices of the home environment explained 22% of the total variation in FRI scores.
Conclusion
We conclude that concurrent learning opportunities, parental responsivity and family companionship at home are associated with intellectual abilities during middle childhood which is comparable to what has been found in early childhood years.
Digitalisierungsprozesse steuern
Authors: Schlenker Lars , Neuburg Carmen , Jörke Desireé , Preissler Anzhela
Published: June 2023

Neue digitale Technologien und Interaktionsformen durchdringen das Leben der Menschen sowie ihren Bildungs- und Berufsalltag. Zugleich forciert die Digitalisierung einen Wandel von etablierten Berufsbildern und geht mit neuen Kompetenzbedarfen einher. Es ist daher von besonderer Relevanz, die Gelingensbedingungen (sowie auch hemmende Faktoren zu erkennen, um deren Wirksamwerden zu vermeiden) der Digitalisierung in der beruflichen Bildung zu identifizieren. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird der Frage nachgegangen, welchen Bedingungen des Gelingens die Digitalisierung im Bereich des beruflichen Bildungswesens unterworfen ist. Entsprechende Daten wurden im Rahmen des BMBF-Projekts DiBBLok an beruflichen Schulen sowie ausbildenden Unternehmen erhoben. Der Beitrag stellt ein Framework unterschiedlicher Faktoren vor und geht auf ausgewählte Faktoren anhand konkreter empirischer Daten vertiefend ein. Die einzelnen Faktoren stellen Parameter dar, anhand derer die verschiedenen Stakeholder der beruflichen Bildung Veränderungsprozesse in Gang setzen können.
Correção de Angulação Inadequada de Implantes de Hexágono Externo por Uso de Tubo Lateral: Garantia de Reversibilidade
Authors: Fernandes e Oliveira Hiskell Francine , Souza Ana Carla Gonçales de , Mendes Rafael Carlos , Batista Victor Eduardo de Souza , Carvalho Karina Helga Turcio de , Guiotti Aimée Maria , Pellizzer Eduardo Piza , Verri Fellippo Ramos
Published: June 2023

O objetivo do trabalho foi relatar o caso de uma reabilitação oral sobre implantes ressaltando o uso de elementos adicionais de retenção tipo “tube screw” (micro-ucla) para correção de angulações indesejadas de implantes. Paciente SBS, sexo feminino, compareceu a clínica de prótese dentária da FOA/UNESP com queixa principal de falta de estética e função da PPR e relato de ter sido submetida à cirurgia de instalação de implantes há aproximadamente 6 anos. Ao exame clínico observou-se a ausência dos elementos de 12-22, e no exame radiográfico a presença de 3 implantes HE, instalados na região do 12, 21 e 22. Foi proposto a reabilitação da região com prótese sobre implantes esplintadas em virtude do pôntico que seria confeccionado. Com o consentimento da paciente, foi feito a reabertura dos implantes e moldagem para a confecção dos provisórios, onde verificou-se angulação não ideal dos implantes 12 e 22, ligeiramente vestibularizados, que indicavam a utilização de prótese com intermediários angulados, ou com ucla dinâmico, ou cimentado para correção. Assim, para maximizar a estética e dar um caráter de reversibilidade ao tratamento, foi proposta a confecção de uma PPF cimentada sobre implante com associação de 2 micro-uclas por lingual. O tratamento foi finalizado a contento, ficando a paciente bastante satisfeita com o resultado. O sistema, apesar de encarecer ligeiramente o tratamento, funcionou de forma satisfatória e promoveu a possibilidade de remoção futura da prótese, caso haja necessidade de reaperto dos parafusos dos munhões conectados aos implantes.
$\nu$-flows: Conditional neutrino regression
Authors: Leigh Matthew , Raine John Andrew , Zoch Knut , Golling Tobias
Published: June 2023

We present \nuν-Flows, a novel method for restricting the likelihood space of neutrino kinematics in high-energy collider experiments using conditional normalising flows and deep invertible neural networks. This method allows the recovery of the full neutrino momentum which is usually left as a free parameter and permits one to sample neutrino values under a learned conditional likelihood given event observations. We demonstrate the success of \nuν-Flows in a case study by applying it to simulated semileptonic t\bar{t}tt‾ events and show that it can lead to more accurate momentum reconstruction, particularly of the longitudinal coordinate. We also show that this has direct benefits in a downstream task of jet association, leading to an improvement of up to a factor of 1.41 compared to conventional methods.
Etnografia organizacional em um mundo permeado pela tecnologia digital
Authors: Vianna Fernando Ressetti Pinheiro Marques , Alcadipani Rafael
Published: June 2023

As tecnologias digitais permeiam grande parte da vida de toda a sociedade, não sendo diferente o caso das organizações e dos meios acadêmicos. O desenvolvimento de estudos sobre a utilização dessas tecnologias nos processos produtivos e de relacionamento com cliente é um tema em evidência na academia de administração, assim como a melhor compreensão sobre o a operacionalização metodológica das pesquisas que as envolvem. Sendo assim, o objetivo do presente artigo foi analisar e apresentar as etapas de uma etnografia que analisou o papel das plataformas digitais em uma confeitaria brasileira. Para isso, os pesquisadores apresentam o papel das plataformas digitais no método, e a forma como foram realizadas as aproximações e as coletas de dados nessa organização que, apesar de não depender das plataformas digitais para a produção de seus produtos, as utiliza em todos os demais processos. Entre as contribuições do estudo mostramos como as plataformas digitais nos estudos de gestão se apresentam de maneira dual, impactando a organização observadas, seus processos e cultura, e também impactando o comportamento e processos do pesquisador, que passa a contar com essas plataformas para coletar dados e armazená-los.
Impacts of climate change on crop growing season characteristics in Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Berhe Amdom Gebremedhin , Misgna Solomon Habtu , Abraha Girmay Gebresamuel , Abraha Amanuel Zenebe
Published: June 2023

Understanding the likely impact of climate change on crop growth is very important to identify possible areas of intervention and consider climate-related impacts. This study aimed to investigate the future impact of climate change on the crop growing season in the Tigray region. Five global climate models under two representative concentration paths were projected for future periods using a delta downscaling approach. Results indicate that projections of rainfall showed an increase in annual and summer (Kiremt) rainfall at most stations. However, the Belg rainfall season had a declining trend except under RCP4.5 in a mid-term period that showed positive changes at most stations. On the contrary, projections of maximum and minimum temperatures indicated a continuous increase. In line with the increase in temperatures, the reference evapotranspiration consistently increased at all stations. Cumulatively, late onset and early cessation of rainfall are observed, accompanied by a 5.5–19% reduction in the length of the growing period (LGP), exacerbating the current short LGP in the study area and affecting the proper growth and maturity of major crops. The findings of this study have global implications in that similar areas may be alarmed to get prepared ahead and develop adaptive and sustainable crop production strategies.
Anaerobic digestibility of aerobic granular sludge from continuous flow reactors: the role of granule size distribution
Authors: Dababat Salahaldeen , Berzio Stephan , Wichern Marc , Lübken Manfred
Published: June 2023

There is an increasing interest in integrating aerobic granular sludge (AGS) technology into wastewater industries. Several projects are being performed to cultivate the aerobic granules for continuous flow reactors (AGS-CFR), while there is a scarcity of those projects that investigate the bio-energy recovery from AGS-CFR. This research was designed to examine the digestibility of AGS-CFR. Beyond that, it aimed at defining the role of the granule size on their digestibility. For this purpose, a series of bio-methane potential (BMP) tests have been run at mesophilic conditions. The results showed that AGS-CFR has a lower methane potential (107.43 ± 4.30 NmL/g VS) compared to activated sludge. This may be the result of the high sludge age (30 days) of AGS-CFR. Additionally, the results revealed that the average size of granules is among the main factors that reduce their digestibility, but it does not inhibit it. It was noticed that granules of size >250 μm have a significantly lower methane yield than the smaller ones. Kinetically, it was noticed that the kinetic models with two hydrolysis rates fit well with the methane curve of AGS-CFR. Overall, this work showed that the average size of AGS-CFR characterizes its biodegradability, which in turn defines its methane yield.
Ability of Cupriavidus necator H16 to resist, bioremove, and accumulate some hazardous metal ions in water
Authors: Akkurt Şeyma , Alkan Uçkun Aysel , Varınca Kamil , Uçkun Miraç
Published: June 2023

Bacterial biomasses are suitable and inexpensive biosorbents for the removal of metal ions. The Gram-negative betaproteobacterium Cupriavidus necator H16 is found in soil and freshwater environments. In this study, C. necator H16 was used to remove chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), aluminum (Al), and cadmium (Cd) ions from water. Minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) values of C. necator to Cr, As, Al, and Cd were found as 76, 69, 341, and 275 mg/L, respectively. The highest rates of Cr, As, Al, and Cd bioremoval were 45, 60, 54, and 78%, respectively. pH levels between 6.0 and 8.0 and an average temperature of 30 °C were optimum for the most efficient bioremoval. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of Cd-treated cells showed that the morphology of the cells was significantly impaired compared to the control. Shifts in the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis (FTIR) spectra of the Cd-treated cell walls also confirmed the presence of active groups. As a result, it can be said that C. necator H16 has a moderate bioremoval efficiency for Cr, As, and Al and a high bioremoval efficiency for Cd.
A Rare Case Report: Bilateral Spontaneous Twin Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy
from Iran
Authors: Sarbazi Fereshte , Akbari Elham , Nasr Reza , Tamizi Nayereh , Khoshravesh Sahar
Published: June 2023

Introduction/Background:

One of the main problems of women of reproductive age is ectopic
pregnancy. Lack of early diagnosis and treatment can lead to internal bleeding and death of the
patient. Approximately 1.2 to 1.4% of the reported pregnancies is ectopic pregnancy and one of the
rarest types of ectopic pregnancy is bilateral ectopic pregnancy, which is reported in only 0.0005% of
pregnant women.

Case Presentation:

A 35-year-old woman with polycystic ovary syndrome, weight 65 kg and height
153 cm, referred for pregnancy. Using examination and history taking, ultrasound and β-hCG titer
measurement, one of the masses at 5 to 6 weeks and in the area of the isthmus of the right tube and the
other mass two weeks later at 7 to 8 weeks, in the area Infundibulum of the left tube was diagnosed.
The most common complication that the patient complained about was abdominal pain and frequent
bleeding. Both times, the patient underwent laparoscopy and because of the patient's condition, salpingectomy
was performed on both left and right tubes of the patient.

Conclusion:

Due to the rarity of bilateral twin ectopic pregnancy, early diagnosis with the help of history
taking and clinical examination, measurement of β-hCG titer and ultrasound is necessary. Early
diagnosis can lead to the reduction of women's mortality.
Determination of Cyanide at Trace Levels by Computational Scanning
Densitometry
Authors: Waheed-Uz-Zaman  , Salman Muhammad , Farooq Umar , Dar Amara , Haq Isma , Burhan Tahira , Anwar Jamil , Manuel Anzano Jesús , Shafique Umer
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Cyanide is one of the most commonly present anions in industrial effluents,
highly toxic to human and animal life. Therefore, its determination in aqueous media by simple, portable,
and quick methods is required.

Objective:

This study aims to develop a simple and quick method to determine this anion at the micro
level in aqueous media without using any expensive instrument.

Method:

The method is based on treating the microliter sample of aqueous cyanide with the classical
Lassaigne’s reagents on a TLC plate. After heating in an oven for a few minutes, a deep blue spot of ferric
ferrocyanide complex appeared on the plate. The color depth of the spots was measured by scanning the
TLC plate and analyzing the image with an indigenous software package.

Result:

As a result of fusion with metallic sodium, carbon and nitrogen of the organic compound combine
to form cyanide, which first reacts with Fe(II) to form hexacyanoferrate ion [Fe(CN)6]4- that further combines
with Fe(III) to create a neutral deep blue colored coordination complex, ferric ferrocyanide
Fe4[Fe(CN)6]3.

Discussion:

This process converts real-world colors into numeric computer data consisting of rows and
columns of pixels. Each pixel will consist of three numeric components, i.e., red, green, and blue. The
pixel's color will be one of 16.8 million possible color combinations (256 shades of red, green, and blue
each).

Conclusion:

From the comparison of results obtained by the proposed method and standard ion-selective
electrode method, it can be concluded that the former method for determining micro quantities of cyanide
in aqueous samples using computational densitometry is a simple, accurate, and adequately precise method
without the involvement of sophisticated instrumentation.
Lifestyle Modulators of Neuroplasticity in Parkinson’s Disease: Evidence
in Human Neuroimaging Studies
Authors: Paola Caminiti Silvia , Gallo Silvia , Menegon Federico , Naldi Andrea , Comi Cristoforo , Tondo Giacomo
Published: June 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by both motor and
non-motor symptoms. A progressive neuronal loss and the consequent clinical impairment lead to
deleterious effects on daily living and quality of life. Despite effective symptomatic therapeutic
approaches, no disease-modifying therapies are currently available. Emerging evidence suggests that
adopting a healthy lifestyle can improve the quality of life of PD patients. In addition, modulating lifestyle
factors can positively affect the microstructural and macrostructural brain levels, corresponding
to clinical improvement. Neuroimaging studies may help to identify the mechanisms through which
physical exercise, dietary changes, cognitive enrichment, and exposure to substances modulate neuroprotection.
All these factors have been associated with a modified risk of developing PD, with attenuation
or exacerbation of motor and non-motor symptomatology, and possibly with structural and
molecular changes. In the present work, we review the current knowledge on how lifestyle factors
influence PD development and progression and the neuroimaging evidence for the brain structural,
functional, and molecular changes induced by the adoption of positive or negative lifestyle behaviours.
Withdrawal Notice: In-vivo Pharmacokinetic Assessment and Invitro Characterization of Strategically Optimized Perphenazineloaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Nose-to-brain Targeting
Authors: Agrawal Yogeeta O. , Patil Tulshidas S. , Patil Kiran D. , Gujarathi Nayan A. , Gangwal Amit , Goyal Sameer N.
Published: June 2023

Since the authors are not responding to the editor’s requests to fulfill the editorial requirement, therefore, the article
has been withdrawn.

Bentham Science apologizes to the readers of the journal for any inconvenience this may have caused. The Bentham
Editorial Policy on Article Withdrawal can be found at https://benthamscience.com/editorial-policies-main.php

Bentham Science Disclaimer:

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when the article is accepted for publication.
Research Patents on Potato Harvesters
Authors: Li Wei , Liu Yu , Li Chunyi , Zhang Rui , Huang Qiujiao , Yang Fan
Published: June 2023

Background:

Potato is a major food crop that is widely grown in more than 100 countries
around the world. The production of this crop is a labor-intensive process, and its field production
mainly includes seed arrangement, seedling cutting, ploughing, ridging, transplanting,
field management, and harvesting (vine cutting, digging, cleaning up, and collection). With the
improved models, the labor can be reduced to nearly half in the production process of potato.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive description of the classification,
characteristics, and development of existing potato harvesters.

Methods:

In this study, a review on the principle of potato harvesting and related patents has been
conducted. We have also introduced the structural characteristics and differences in applications
of potato harvesters.

Results:

The existing potato harvesters have been analyzed and compared in this paper, and the
typical characteristics have been summarized. The main problems existing in the development of
potato harvesters are analyzed, the development trend of potato harvesters is forecasted, and the
research status and future development trend of potato harvesters and patents are discussed.

Conclusion:

Based on our research, we have found that potato harvesters can be classified into
three categories based on the harvesting process, clearing the vine, and harvesting machine. The
combine harvester is capable of both clearing the vine and harvesting, and it has been reported to
significantly improve the efficiency. However, for special terrain or other conditions not suitable
for the combine harvester, the cutting and harvesting machine can perform both the steps. Currently,
potato harvesters are not popular at home and abroad, and future development of potato harvesters
must focus on them being intelligent, lightweight, and unmanned.
Multi-objective Optimal Scheduling of Stacker–reclaimers Using the RPCNSGA
II Algorithm
Authors: Yi Lingzhi , Liu Qiankun , Wang Yahui , Zhang Huiting , Peng Xinlong
Published: June 2023

Background:

The stacker-reclaimer is a device for transporting bulk materials in ironmaking
raw material yards. An excellent scheduling plan can provide a good raw material supply basis for steel
enterprises. It is of great significance to improve the efficiency of steel production, reduce unnecessary
operating waste and management costs, and realize scientific management of steel production.

Objective:

This patent aims to optimize the total material transportation time and equipment utilization
balance within a single operation plan of the stacker-reclaimer involved in the raw material yard.

Methods:

A multi-objective optimization model for the stacker reclaimer is established, and the Reverse
learning and Population Competitive-NSGA II (RPC-NSGA II) algorithm is introduced for solving.
This algorithm uses reverse learning and population competition mechanism to improve the convergence
and diversity of the algorithm.

Results:

The proposed method was experimentally verified in a raw material yard with a 360m2 sintering
machine and a bulk material port. The method converges well and obtains a Pareto front with a uniform
distribution. Compared with the actual scheduling plan, the scheduling plan under the optimal
compromise solution reduces the maximum completion time by 11.23 minutes and increases the equipment
utilization balance rate by 11.70%.

Conclusion:

The proposed method can consider the material transportation time and equipment utilization
balance, which is of great significance for the optimized use of the stacker reclaimer in steel enterprises
and the quality assurance of raw material supply
Photodynamic therapy for thin endometrium in patients with infertility
Authors:   Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Arutyunyan N.A. , Katsalap S.N. ,   Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Akatieva A.S. ,   Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Khmelevskaya V.F. ,   Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Alekhin A.I. ,   Central Clinical Hospital of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: June 2023

There is now evidence of certain structural and functional changes in the endometrium that may be etiological factors affecting the reproductive system health. Endometrial hypoplasia and alter-ations in uterine hemodynamics may cause implantation failure. Because thin endometrium is associated with infertility, early miscarriage and difficulty of treating, further search and use of new therapeutic methods designed on the basis of domestic state-of-the-art technologies is relevant. Effectiveness of intracavitary photodynamic therapy (PDT) for patients with thin endometrium was investigated. Fifty patients at the age of 35.4+/-3.3 years with established diagnoses of thin endometrium and infertility were included in the study. All patients were given PDT. Before the treatment the photosensitiser “Photoditazine” was injected intracavitary in the II phase of the menstrual cycle. For irradiation of the uterine cavity the medical apparatus “LAMI” providing laser radiation with wavelength of 660 nm, was used. To distribute evenly the light in the uterine cavity, intrauterine cylinder optical fiber diffuser (OFD «KOVB-660») was used. The average laser power density was 0.05+/-0.02 W/cm2, energy density 36.7+/-5.9 J/cm2, laser exposure time 11.7+/-2.25 min. We found that the use of intracavitary PDT for thin endometrium allows to correct the menstrual cycle, to achieve long-lasting clinical effect, to regenerate the thickness and 3-layer structure of the endometrium, to increase the percentage of recognised pregnancies and to reduce the risk of pregnancy complications.
Prototyping Apps for the Management of Sleep, Fatigue, and Behavioral Health in Austere Far-Forward Environments: Development Study
Authors: Germain Anne , Wolfson Megan , Pulantara I Wayan , Wallace Meredith L , Nugent Katie , Mesias George , Clarke-Walper Kristina , Quartana Phillip J , Wilk Joshua
Published: June 2023

Background

Military service inherently includes frequent periods of high-stress training, operational tempo, and sustained deployments to austere far-forward environments. These occupational requirements can contribute to acute and chronic sleep disruption, fatigue, and behavioral health challenges related to acute and chronic stress and disruption of team dynamics. To date, there is no centralized mobile health platform that supports self- and supervised detection, monitoring, and management of sleep and behavioral health issues in garrison and during and after deployments.

Objective

The objective of this study was to adapt a clinical decision support platform for use outside clinical settings, in garrison, and during field exercises by medics and soldiers to monitor and manage sleep and behavioral health in operational settings.

Methods

To adapt an existing clinical decision support digital health platform, we first gathered system, content, and context-related requirements for a sleep and behavioral health management system from experts. Sleep and behavioral health assessments were then adapted for prospective digital data capture. Evidence-based and operationally relevant educational and interventional modules were formatted for digital delivery. These modules addressed the management and mitigation of sleep, circadian challenges, fatigue, stress responses, and team communication. Connectivity protocols were adapted to accommodate the absence of cellular or Wi-Fi access in deployed settings. The resulting apps were then tested in garrison and during 2 separate field exercises.

Results

Based on identified requirements, 2 Android smartphone apps were adapted for self-monitoring and management for soldiers (Soldier app) and team supervision and intervention by medics (Medic app). A total of 246 soldiers, including 28 medics, received training on how to use the apps. Both apps function as expected under conditions of limited connectivity during field exercises. Areas for future technology enhancement were also identified.

Conclusions

We demonstrated the feasibility of adapting a clinical decision support platform into Android smartphone–based apps to collect, save, and synthesize sleep and behavioral health data, as well as share data using adaptive data transfer protocols when Wi-Fi or cellular data are unavailable. The AIRE (Autonomous Connectivity Independent System for Remote Environments) prototype offers a novel self-management and supervised tool to augment capabilities for prospective monitoring, detection, and intervention for emerging sleep, fatigue, and behavioral health issues that are common in military and nonmilitary high-tempo occupations (eg, submarines, long-haul flights, space stations, and oil rigs) where medical expertise is limited.
Virtual Worlds Technology to Enhance Training for Primary Care Providers in Assessment and Management of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Using Motivational Interviewing: Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Manuel Jennifer K , Purcell Natalie , Abadjian Linda , Cardoos Stephanie , Yalch Matthew , Hill Coleen , McCarthy Brittan , Bertenthal Daniel , McGrath Sarah , Seal Karen
Published: June 2023

Background

Many individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) first present to primary care rather than specialty mental health care. Primary care providers often lack the training required to assess and treat patients with PTSD. Virtual trainings have emerged as a convenient and effective way of training primary care providers in PTSD assessment and communication methods (ie, motivational interviewing [MI]).

Objective

The aim of this study was to conduct a pilot randomized controlled trial of a synchronous Virtual Worlds (VW; a virtual world where learners were immersed as avatars) training versus an asynchronous web-based training on PTSD and MI, comparing the feasibility, acceptability, usability, and preliminary efficacy of 2 different training platforms among primary care providers.

Methods

Participating primary care providers were randomized to a VW and a web-based PTSD training. Outcomes were collected at baseline, posttraining, and 90-days follow-up. Standardized patient interviews measured participants’ communication skills in assessing and managing patients with PTSD symptoms.

Results

Compared to the web-based training, the VW training platform achieved larger learning gains in MI (ie, partnership and empathy) and in discussing pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy for PTSD. Both VW and web-based trainings led to increases in PTSD knowledge and primary care providers’ self-confidence.

Conclusions

The asynchronous web-based PTSD training improved PTSD-related knowledge and self-confidence but was not as effective as the VW immersive experience in teaching MI or clinical management. Because VW training is synchronous and new for many learners, it required more time, facilitation, and technical support. As computer technology improves, VW educational interventions may become more feasible, particularly in teaching clinical skills.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03898271; https://tinyurl.com/mu479es5
Gender-Specific Association Between Perceived Stigma Toward Tuberculosis and Acceptance of Preventive Treatment Among College Students With Latent Tuberculosis Infection: Cross-Sectional Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Yuan Yemin , Jin Jin , Bi Xiuli , Geng Hong , Li Shixue , Zhou Chengchao
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

With the increasing enrollment scale of colleges, the number of students on campus has risen sharply in China. The number of students with tuberculosis (TB) and rifampicin-resistant TB in colleges has increased significantly. Preventive treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is an important means for TB prevention and control in colleges. At present, the acceptance of LTBI treatment among college students remains unclear. In addition, evidence shows stigma may be one of the key factors affecting acceptance of LTBI treatment. To date, there is little direct evidence on the gender-specific association between perceived stigma toward TB and acceptance of LTBI treatment among college students.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe the acceptance of LTBI treatment among college students in an eastern province of China to explore the association between perceived stigma toward TB and acceptance of LTBI treatment and to examine the moderating effect of gender on the association.

METHODS

Data were derived from the project on the evaluation of LTBI treatment and its effectiveness among college students in Shandong, China. In total, 1547 college students were included in the analysis. We considered covariates at the individual and family levels. Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression was used to examine the moderating role of gender and also explore the association between perceived stigma toward TB and acceptance of LTBI treatment.

RESULTS

The acceptance rate of LTBI treatment among the diagnosed college students was 46.7% (n=723). The proportion of female students (n=361, 51.5%) accepting LTBI treatment was higher than that of male students (n=362, 42.8%; P=.001). There was an interaction between perceived stigma toward TB and gender (OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.87-1.00; P=.06). Among college students with LTBI, perceived stigma toward TB was positively associated with acceptance of preventive treatment (OR 1.03, 95% CI 1.00-1.08, P=.05). Perceived stigma toward TB was positively associated with accepting LTBI treatment only among male students (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.02-1.12; P=.005).

CONCLUSIONS

The acceptance rate of preventive treatment among college students with LTBI was low. Contrary to our expectations, perceived stigma toward TB was positively associated with acceptance of preventive treatment. Gender moderated this association; high perceived stigma toward TB was associated with acceptance of preventive treatment only in male gender. Gender-specific strategies are effective in improving the acceptability of LTBI treatment in colleges.
Implementing Active Assisted Living Technology in the Long-term Care of People Living With Dementia to Address Loneliness: European Survey (Preprint)
Authors: Budak Kübra Beliz , Laporte Uribe Franziska , Meiland Franka , Felding Simone Anna , Teupen Sonja , Bergmann Johannes Michael , Mueller-Widmer Rene , Roes Martina
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

In the lives of people with dementia, loneliness is an important issue with psychological and physical consequences. Active assisted living (AAL) technology has been gaining visibility in the care of persons living with dementia, including addressing loneliness. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is a lack of evidence concerning the factors influencing the implementation of AAL technology within the context of dementia, loneliness, and long-term care (LTC).

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to identify the familiarity with AAL technology that is promising for addressing loneliness in persons living with dementia in LTC in Europe and the factors influencing AAL technology implementation.

METHODS

A web-based survey was developed based on findings from our previous literature review. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research guided the development and analysis of the survey. Participants included 24 representatives of Alzheimer Europe member associations from 15 European countries. The data were analyzed using basic statistical methods (descriptive statistics).

RESULTS

The baby seal robot Paro was reported to be the most familiar AAL technology by 19 of 24 participants addressing loneliness in people with dementia living in LTC. Participants from Norway (n=2) reported familiarity with 14 AAL technologies, and participants from Serbia (n=1) reported zero familiarity. It seems that countries that invest less in LTC facilities are familiar with fewer AAL technologies. At the same time, these countries report a more positive attitude toward AAL technology, express a higher need for it, and see more advantages than disadvantages than those countries that invest more in LTC. However, a country's investment in LTC facilities does not seem to be linked to other implementation aspects such as costs, planning, and the impact of infrastructure.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of AAL technology to address loneliness in dementia seems to be linked to familiarity with the technology in a country as well as national investment in LTC facilities. This survey confirms the literature on higher investment countries’ critical stance in regard to AAL technology implementation to address loneliness in persons living with dementia living in LTC. Further research is needed to clarify the potential reasons why familiarity with more AAL technology does not seem to be directly linked with acceptance, positive attitude, or satisfaction with AAL technology addressing loneliness in persons living with dementia.
Psychometric Assessment of an Item Bank for Adaptive Testing on Patient-Reported Experience of Care Environment for Severe Mental Illness: Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Fernandes Sara , Brousse Yann , Zendjidjian Xavier , Cano Delphine , Riedberger Jérémie , Llorca Pierre-Michel , Samalin Ludovic , Dassa Daniel , Trichard Christian , Laprevote Vincent , Sauvaget Anne , Abbar Mocrane , Misdrahi David , Berna Fabrice , Lancon Christophe , Coulon Nathalie , El-Hage Wissam , Rozier Pierre-Emmanuel , Benoit Michel , Giordana Bruno , Caqueo-Urízar Alejandra , Yon Dong Keon , Tran Bach , Auquier Pascal , Fond Guillaume , Boyer Laurent
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

The care environment significantly influences the experiences of patients with severe mental illness and the quality of their care. While a welcoming and stimulating environment enhances patient satisfaction and health outcomes, psychiatric facilities often prioritize staff workflow over patient needs. Addressing these challenges is crucial to improving patient experiences and outcomes in mental health care.

OBJECTIVE

This study is part of the Patient-Reported Experience Measure for Improving Quality of Care in Mental Health (PREMIUM) project and aims to establish an item bank (PREMIUM-CE) and to develop computerized adaptive tests (CATs) to measure the experience of the care environment of adult patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder.

METHODS

We performed psychometric analyses including assessments of item response theory (IRT) model assumptions, IRT model fit, differential item functioning (DIF), item bank validity, and CAT simulations.

RESULTS

In this multicenter cross-sectional study, 498 patients were recruited from outpatient and inpatient settings. The final PREMIUM-CE 13-item bank was sufficiently unidimensional (root mean square error of approximation=0.082, 95% CI 0.067-0.097; comparative fit index=0.974; Tucker-Lewis index=0.968) and showed an adequate fit to the IRT model (infit mean square statistic ranging between 0.7 and 1.0). DIF analysis revealed no item biases according to gender, health care settings, diagnosis, or mode of study participation. PREMIUM-CE scores correlated strongly with satisfaction measures (r=0.69-0.78; P<.001) and weakly with quality-of-life measures (r=0.11-0.21; P<.001). CAT simulations showed a strong correlation (r=0.98) between CAT scores and those of the full item bank, and around 79.5% (396/498) of the participants obtained a reliable score with the administration of an average of 7 items.

CONCLUSIONS

The PREMIUM-CE item bank and its CAT version have shown excellent psychometric properties, making them reliable measures for evaluating the patient experience of the care environment among adults with severe mental illness in both outpatient and inpatient settings. These measures are a valuable addition to the existing landscape of patient experience assessment, capturing what truly matters to patients and enhancing the understanding of their care experiences.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02491866; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02491866
Public Perceptions of Treating Opioid Use Disorder With Deep Brain Stimulation: Comment Analysis Study (Preprint)
Authors: Henegan Patricia , Koczara Jack , Bluhm Robyn , Cabrera Laura  Y
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

The number of opioid-related deaths in the United States has more than tripled over the past 7 years, with a steep increase beginning at the same time as the COVID-19 pandemic. There is an urgent need for novel treatment options that can help alleviate the individual and social effects of refractory opioid use disorder (OUD). Deep brain stimulation (DBS), an intervention that involves implanting electrodes in the brain to deliver electrical impulses, is one potential treatment. Currently in clinical trials for many psychiatric conditions, including OUD, DBS’s use for psychiatric indications is not without controversy. Several studies have examined ethical issues raised by using DBS to counter treatment-resistant depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and eating disorders. In contrast, there has been limited literature regarding the use of DBS for OUD.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to gain empirical neuroethical insights into public perceptions regarding the use of DBS for OUD, specifically via the analysis of web-based comments on news media stories about the topic.

METHODS

Qualitative thematic content analysis was performed on 2 Washington Post newspaper stories that described a case of DBS being used to treat OUD. A total of 292 comments were included in the analysis, 146 comments from each story, to identify predominant themes raised by commenters.

RESULTS

Predominant themes raised by commenters across the 2 samples included the hopes and expectations with treatment outcomes, whether addiction is a mental health disorder, and issues related to resource allocation. Controversial comments regarding DBS as a treatment method for OUD seemingly decreased when comparing the first printed newspaper story to the second. In comparison, the number of comments relating to therapeutic need increased over time.

CONCLUSIONS

The general public’s perspectives on DBS as a treatment method for OUD elucidated themes via this qualitative thematic content analysis that include overarching sociopolitical issues, positions on the use of technology, and technological and scientific issues. A better understanding of the public perceptions around the use of DBS for OUD can help address misinformation and misperceptions about the use of DBS for OUD, and identify similarities and differences regarding ethical concerns when DBS is used specifically for OUD compared to other psychiatric disorders.
Navigating the AI Revolution: The Case for Precise Regulation in Health Care (Preprint)
Authors: Reddy Sandeep
Published: June 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Health care is undergoing a profound transformation through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). However, the rapid integration and expansive growth of AI within health care systems present ethical and legal challenges that warrant careful consideration. In this viewpoint, the author argues that the health care domain, due to its complexity, requires specialized approaches to regulating AI. Precise regulation can provide clear guidelines for addressing these challenges, thereby ensuring ethical and legal AI implementations.
Tổng hợp vật liệu Fe3O4-biochar từ bã mía ứng dụng để xử lý Safranin O trong dung dịch
Authors: Đỗ Thị Mỹ Phượng , Phan Thị Thanh Tuyền , Nguyễn Xuân Lộc
Published: June 2023

Fe3O4–biochar từ bã mía được sử dụng làm chất hấp phụ sinh học để loại bỏ hợp chất màu Safranin O (SO) trong dung dịch. Đặc trưng bề mặt của Fe3O4–biochar được nghiên cứu bằng phương pháp SEM/EDX và pHpzc. Các thí nghiệm theo lô được thực hiện nhằm đánh giá ảnh hưởng của pH dung dịch, khối lượng Fe3O4–biochar, thời gian hấp phụ và nồng độ SO ban đầu đến quá trình hấp phụ. Kết quả cho thấy ở pH=6, khối lượng Fe3O4–biochar sử dụng là 3 g trong 50 mL dung dịch SO, thời gian hấp phụ ở 120 phút và nồng độ SO ban đầu ở 50 mg/L là các điều kiện thí nghiệm thích hợp cho quá trình hấp phụ SO. Mô hình hấp phụ đẳng nhiệt Langmuir mô tả tốt quá trình hấp phụ SO tại nhiệt độ phòng với R2 là 0,94. Dung lượng hấp phụ tối đa của quá trình hấp phụ SO là qmax = 12,18 mg/g. Nghiên cứu đã chứng minh rằng vật liệu Fe3O4–biochar từ bã mía có thể thu hồi một cách đơn giản sau quá trình xử lý và có thể sử dụng để loại bỏ cation màu SO trong dung dịch.
Nghiên cứu trồng cỏ voi trong hệ thống đất ngập nước nhân tạo dòng chảy ngầm xử lý nước thải sinh hoạt
Authors: Kim Lavane , Trần Hoàng Phúc , Lý Minh Tâm , Trần Thị Kim Loan , Nguyễn Trường Huy , Võ Thị Kiều Trinh
Published: June 2023

Nghiên cứu này đánh giá sự phát triển và vai trò cỏ voi (Pennisetum purpureum) trồng trong đất ngập nước nhân tạo dòng chảy ngầm xử lý nước thải sinh hoạt. Nghiên cứu được thực hiện với mô hình phòng thí nghiệm trồng cỏ voi trên nền lọc xỉ than tổ ong. Mô hình đối chứng không trồng thực vật cũng được tiến hành song song. Nước thải sinh hoạt được cấp vào hệ thống với tải nạp là 35 L/m2/ngày. Kết quả nghiên cứu cho thấy các chỉ tiêu lý hóa trong nước thải như TSS, BOD5, N-NH4+, N-NO3-, P-PO43- sau xử lý đạt QCVN 14:2008/BTNMT (cột A). Cỏ voi phát triển tốt và góp phần nâng cao hiệu suất loại bỏ chất ô nhiễm trong nước thải, đặc biệt là N-NO3- và P-PO43-. Tuy nhiên, tổng coliform trong nước thải sau xử lý cao hơn quy chuẩn mặc dù hiệu suất xử lý của 2 mô hình đạt 95,1% và 98,5%. Nghiên cứu chỉ ra rằng cỏ voi phát triển tốt và có thể chọn để trồng trong đất ngập nước nhân tạo dòng chảy ngầm để loại bỏ chất ô nhiễm trong nước thải sinh hoạt.
Khảo sát hệ phiêu sinh thực vật tại Khu bảo vệ cảnh quan rừng tràm Trà Sư - tỉnh An Giang
Authors: Nguyễn Võ Châu Ngân , Lê Văn Dũ , Trần Thị Kim Hồng , Nguyễn Công Thuận , Kim Lavane
Published: June 2023

Nghiên cứu nhằm đánh giá thành phần phiêu sinh thực vật tại Khu bảo vệ cảnh quan rừng tràm Trà Sư theo mùa. Mẫu phiêu sinh thực vật được xác định bằng phương pháp định tính và định lượng tại 20 vị trí đại diện cho các vùng sinh thái trong rừng. Đợt khảo sát mùa khô ghi nhận 119 loài thuộc 6 ngành, trong đó ngành tảo lục chiếm tỉ lệ cao nhất (34%), kế đến là tảo silic (29%), tảo mắt (24%), vi khuẩn lam (8%), Tảo giáp (4%), và thấp nhất là tảo vàng kim (1%). Đợt khảo sát vào mùa mưa ghi nhận 132 loài thuộc 6 ngành tảo, trong đó ngành tảo lục và tảo silic chiếm ưu thế với 29% tổng số loài khảo sát. Các ngành tảo đều có thành phần loài tăng trong mùa mưa, trong đó ngành tảo lục tăng cao nhất với 14 loài, kế đến là tảo silic với 12 loài. Số lượng loài tảo ghi nhận trên hệ thống kênh bên trong rừng đa dạng và nhiều hơn 21 loài so với kênh bên ngoài rừng. Mật độ tảo tại các điểm thu mẫu có sự khác biệt lớn trong hai mùa, theo đó, vào mùa khô, mật độ tảo từ 154 tế bào/L đến 53.020 tế bào/L, vào mùa mưa, mật độ tảo từ 360 tế bào/L đến 29.830 tế bào/L.
Sự tồn tại nghiệm cho bài toán tối ưu vector dựa trên nón thứ tự kết hợp
Authors: Lâm Quốc Anh , Phạm Thanh Dược , Thái Đức Duy , Lâm Thị Vân Khánh
Published: June 2023

Trong bài báo này, một nón mới được giới thiệu và tính lồi của tập nghiệm hữu hiệu mạnh của một bài toán tối ưu vector thông qua nón mới này cũng được thảo luận. Đầu tiên, một nón thứ tự kết hợp dựa trên nón Orthant dương, nón Lorentz và nón từ điển được giới thiệu. Sau đó, các tính chất của nón này và mối quan hệ giữa nó với các nón khác được khảo sát. Cuối cùng, điều kiện tồn tại và tính lồi của tập nghiệm của bài toán tối ưu vector dựa trên nón mới được thiết lập.
Ảnh hưởng của phân bón đến năng suất và thành phần dinh dưỡng của lá mít (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.)
Authors: Lâm Phước Thành , Phạm Trường Thoại Kha , Mai Hoàn Tư , Dương Trần Tuyết Mai , Nguyễn Thị Thu Hà , Phạm Văn Trọng Tính , Trần Thị Thúy Hằng
Published: June 2023

Mục tiêu của đề tài nhằm khảo sát ảnh hưởng của 3 mức phân N-P-K lên khả năng sinh trưởng, năng suất và thành phần dinh dưỡng của lá mít. Thí nghiệm được bố trí hoàn toàn ngẫu nhiên với 3 nghiệm thức tương ứng với 3 mức phân bón vô cơ, bao gồm P1 có tỷ lệ N-P-K 16-16-8, P2 có tỷ lệ N-P-K 24-16-8 và P3 có tỷ lệ N-P-K 16-24-8. Thí nghiệm được lặp lại 10 lần, mỗi lần lặp lại gồm 4 cây mít giống Changai từ 12-18 tháng tuổi, tổng số là 120 cây mít. Kết quả cho thấy cây mít sử dụng mức phân P3 cho chiều cao, đường kính tán, số chồi, năng suất lá và cọng cao nhất (P<0,05). Đối với thành phần hóa học thì DM của lá cao nhất ở P1 và P2, nhưng DM của cọng thì cao nhất ở P2 và P3 (P<0,05). Từ kết quả thí nghiệm cho thấy để gia tăng lượng lá mít làm thức ăn cho gia súc nhai lại thì nên sử dụng phân với tỷ lệ N-P-K là 16-24-8 bón cho cây mít giống Changai trong giai đoạn 12 đến 18 tháng tuổi.