bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Low Tunnel Coverings and Plant Type Affect Productivity of Day-neutral Strawberries
Authors: Gaisser Richard , Kuehn Kaspar , Pritts Marvin
Published: May 2024

Growers producing day-neutral strawberries (Fragaria ×ananassa) in temperate climates face challenges when attempting to extend the season and mitigate the effects of rain. Conventional plastic coverings over low tunnels have been used for these purposes, but they often exacerbate heat-induced problems in summer. We examined two approaches for addressing this challenge. The first was to start dormant bare root ‘Albion’ strawberry plants in small pots in the greenhouse, then plant them into the field in spring so they could begin production before the onset of consistently high temperatures. Plants set in small pots on 26 Feb in the greenhouse and field planted on 6 May were compared with bare root plants set directly into the field on 6 May. The second approach used various low tunnel coverings to modify the light and temperature environment around the plants. Three coverings were woven nets embedded with reflective strips at various densities that allowed 50%, 60%, and 70% light transmission, and these were intended to lower temperatures under the covers by reflecting infrared radiation. A fourth covering was a polyethylene plastic embedded with optically active additives that shift incident light into wavelengths that are more photosynthetically active. Two other covers were standard commercial polyethylene plastics, and the final treatment was an uncovered control. Over the 2020 and 2021 growing seasons (hot and dry vs. moderate and wet, respectively), plots were harvested once or twice a week from June through October and fruit yield, size, and marketability were assessed. In both years, strawberry plants started in the greenhouse produced significantly higher yields than bare root plants over the season (30.5% and 43.7%). Bare root plants were less responsive to cover type than greenhouse plants. In 2020, yields tended to be higher in the middle of summer in plots with reflective coverings that reduced temperature and higher later in the season with coverings of wavelength-shifting film. Polyethylene covers that increased temperature without shifting the light spectrum had lower yields. Under the cooler conditions of 2021, plants under covers that increased temperature tended to have higher yields. In a third year (2023), bare root plants were covered with a reflective covering from 29 Jun until 1 Sep, then this cover was replaced with polyethylene with optical additives as the weather cooled and light levels dropped. This sequenced treatment was compared with uncovered plots and plots covered with standard commercial polyethylene plastic. Plants under the two-phase sequential covering performed significantly better than uncovered plots or those covered with standard polyethylene plastic alone.
Zhonghongite, Cu29(As,Sb)12S33, a new mineral from the high-sulfidation vein of Jiama porphyry system, Tibet, China
Authors: Zheng Shi-Ji , Gu Xiang-Ping , Bai Zhong-Jie , Zhang Zhong-Kun
Published: May 2024

Zhonghongite (IMA2023-046), ideally Cu29(As,Sb)12S33, is a new mineral discovered in the high-sulfidation vein of the Jiama deposit (E 91°45′, N 29°42′), southern Tibet, China. It forms complex intergrowths with watanabeite and tennantite-tetrahedrite, creating veined or massive aggregates ranging from millimeters to centimeters. Single crystals of zhonghongite are anhedral, and their sizes range from several micrometers to ∼100 μm. The mineral is gray with a black streak and metallic luster. It is brittle, with uneven fractures, and has a calculated density of 4.925 g/cm3. The average values of electron microprobe analyses (wt%) are: Cu 42.19, As 11.11, Sb 16.09, S 25.45, Hg 3.73, Mn 0.67, and Te 0.28. The empirical formula, based on 33 sulfur apfu, is (Cu27.60Hg0.77Mn0.51Fe0.07Ag0.02)Σ28.97(As6.16Sb5.49Te0.09)Σ11.74S33. In zhonghongite, the substitution of Sb for As is limited, with the atomic ratio of As/(As+Sb) ranging from 0.457 to 0.629. Hg, Mn, and Fe, with minor Cu, are divalent and serve for charge balance. Zhonghongite is orthorhombic, space group F2mm (42), a = 10.37741(5) Å, b = 14.69821(9) Å, c = 36.7645(2) Å, and V = 5607.66(5) Å3. The crystal structure was solved and refined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction with a final R1 = 0.0235 for 27 028 (2467 unique) reflections. It is composed of individual AsS3 tripyramids and clustered As4S7 tripyramids, CuS4 tetrahedra, and CuS3 planar triangles, connected through corner S atoms in tetrahedral coordination and octahedral coordination with Cu and/or As. The structure is a derivative of a tetrahedrite-type structure. Zhonghongite was formed under high-temperature conditions and is classified as an intermediate-sulfidation state mineral.
JTC online comprehensive fault diagnosis method based on angle feature and linear trend feature
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Zhu Taowei , Zhu Ming
Published: May 2024

Aiming at the problem of incompatibility of the fault diagnosis method between JTC (Jointless Track Circuit) compensation capacitor and tuning zone, based on the amplitude envelope mathematical model of induced voltage of locomotive signal, an online comprehensive fault diagnosis algorithm for multi-compensation capacitor and tuning equipment fault was proposed. It is characterized by the angle of the tangent vector of the amplitude envelope at the compensation capacitor and the linear trend within the three compensation capacitor sections close to the transmitter when the tuning device fails, the angle feature and linear trend feature are extracted to determine the fault type. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can accurately detect multi-compensation capacitor faults and tuning equipment faults with high accuracy and high efficiency, especially the sudden multi-compensation capacitor faults and tuning zone unit breaking faults. The accuracy of the algorithm for JTC fault diagnosis is verified under different signal-to-noise ratio and ballast resistance fluctuation, which shows that the algorithm has strong applicability.
A one-dimensional high-order dynamic model for twin-cell box girders with deformable cross-section
Authors: Zhu Yuhang , Zhang Lei , Zeng Tao
Published: May 2024

A one-dimensional high-order dynamic model for single-box twin-cell box girders is presented together with the pattern recognition algorithm. The model takes into account the deformable cross-section and can accurately predict its 3D dynamic behaviors. The cross-section deformation is captured by basis functions satisfying displacement continuity condition, which is essential to construct the initial model formulation based on the Hamilton principle. The axial variation patterns of generalized coordinates are decoupled by solving the eigenvalue problem. On this basis, the combinations of basis functions are obtained to bring out cross-section deformation. The cross-section deformation, hierarchically organized and physically meaningful, are used to update the basis functions in the reconstructed high-order model. Numerical analysis has verified the accuracy and applicability of the reconstructed one-dimensional high-order model.
Impacts of technological innovation: a systematic review for smart Bangladesh
Authors: Zaman Tabassum , Bhattacharjee Soma , Sultana Fahmida
Published: May 2024

Economic stability is the lifeline of a nation as it is the vital condition for the standard of living of the citizens. Economic growth and stability are prerequisites for an emerging country to upgrade to the status of a middle-income country. The potential dimensions of the digital economy in Bangladesh are intrinsically linked with the fostering of economic development and prosperity by the year 2041. Technological innovation is one of the major forces of economic growth and digital Bangladesh. It is expected to impact directly and indirectly the economic development since the Industrial Revolution. Accordingly, this research seeks to provide an overview of the present impacts of technological innovation, focusing on evolving trends that have direct and indirect impacts on the economy. The methodology of the study engages a qualitative approach using a systematic review of the research objectives, applying secondary data. The findings of the study reflect on the potential of technological innovation on individual, organizational, and environmental impacts on Bangladesh. Considering the nascent impacts of technological innovation the study suggests that policymakers should take prompt action to ensure an efficient labor force through research and development and this may follow organizational excellence and environmental sustainability. The study suggests that these three dimensions will cascade in the economic improvement of Bangladesh shortly.
Comparison of Different DNA Isolation Protocols in Old and New Insect Samples
Authors: Tatar Muhammed , Bildirici Aslıhan Esra , Ölmez Fatih , Mustafa Zemran , Tozlu Göksel
Published: May 2024

Insects belong to the Arthropoda phylum and are the most numerous animal group in the world, with more than 1.000.000 species. Insects ensure the sustainability of life on earth by pollinating plants, improving soil texture by decomposing organic materials, and providing nutrients to humans. DNA isolation is a necessity for performing analyses such as Sanger sequencing, DNA fingerprinting, and gene-genome analysis. Isolated insect DNA samples can be used to carry out studies such as species identification, taxonomic relations, comparison of insect-plant and –microfauna relations, revealing genomic, population, and genetic diversity, bio-geography determination, combating agricultural pests, etc. In this study, it is aimed to compare three different isolation methods in terms of time and quality for obtaining genetic material from museum samples (old) and new samples of insects. The samples used in this investigation belong to the same insect species of Cerambycidae family (Coleoptera). Samples collected at most 9-12 months ago are considered as “new specimen”, whereas “old specimens” consist samples of 7-28 years old. Three DNA isolation protocols: Phenol-Chloroform, Salting Out and DArT seq, are compared in this study. Considering quality gel images and A260/280 and A260/230 values in newly collected samples, the best results in terms of quality were obtained with the phenol-chloroform method. When A260/280 values were examined alone, DArT seq protocol appears to be the most appropriate protocol in terms of purity in both old and new insect samples. In terms of time, the Phenol-chloroform method was found to be the shortest protocol lasting for about 2 h. Accordingly, the phenol-chloroform method was deduced to be the better choice for both old and new insect samples. After concentration adjustments, the obtained DNAs can be used for the next experimental stages or stored as stock material at -20 ºC. Determining the appropriate protocol to obtain high-quality DNA in a short time is important for the continuation of the studies. Our findings are important in terms of accelerating the studies for identification and determining systematic status and especially in examining the taxonomic relationships of the insect species. Using molecular taxonomy in addition to classical taxonomy allows the identification of insects on a species basis. These types of studies will generate useful information for researchers who study insect molecular biology.
Bazı Transformasyon Çizgelerin Gutman İndeksinin Hesaplanması
Authors: Çakal Merve , Bacak Turan Gökşen
Published: May 2024

Çizge teorisi günümüzde birçok alanda kullanılmaktadır. Bu alanlardan biri de matematiksel kimyadır. Bu alanda birçok topolojik indeks çalışılmıştır. Topolojik indeks, bir moleküler çizgenin topolojisini tanımlamak ve bunu ilgilenilen çeşitli özelliklerle ilişkilendirmek için kullanılır. Bu topolojik indekslerin en yaygın kullanılanları derece ve uzaklık tabanlı indekslerdir. Bu makalede kimyada önemli bir yere sahip olan Gutman indeksi incelenmiştir. Gutman indeksi hem derece hem de uzaklığın aynı anda kullanıldığı, literatürde kapsamlı olarak çalışılmış iyi bilinen bir topolojik indekstir ve kimya, fizik ve diğer alanlarda birçok uygulaması vardır. Transformasyon çizgeler ise kimya, bilgisayar bilimleri ve fizik gibi alanlarda moleküler yapıları, fiziksel ağları ve algoritmaları modellemek için kullanılabilen çizgelerdir. Bu çizgeler, bir çizgenin farklı transformasyonlar altındaki özelliklerinin incelenmesini sağladıklarından önemlidir. Orijinal çizgenin simetrisi, bağlantılılığı ve diğer yapısal özellikleri, bu transformasyonlar yoluyla ortaya çıkarılabilir. Bu makalede, bazı transformasyon çizgelerin Gutman indeksi bu çizgelerin özelliklerini incelemek için kullanılabilecek yeni bir topolojik indeks sağlamak amacıyla çalışılmış ve genel formüller elde edilmiştir.
A Detailed Study of Solvent-Ligand Interactions and in Silico Biological Activity Predictions on Hydroxychloroquine
Authors: Bilkan Mustafa Tuğfan
Published: May 2024

In this study, the effects of solvent environment changes, which are of critical importance in drug production processes, on the geometric structure and physicochemical parameters of the Hydroxychloroquine (HQC) molecule were investigated. For this purpose, optimized molecule structures were obtained using Density Functional Theory in vacuum and solvent environments. Based on the optimized structures, the molecule's thermochemical properties, atomic charges, and chemical reactivity data were calculated in vacuum and solvent environments. Moreover, the molecule's molecular electrostatic potential map and HOMO-LUMO contour maps were drawn. Vibrational frequencies, intensities, and assignments in solvent environments were determined. The characteristics of the hydrogen bonding interactions established between solvent molecules and HQC were determined in detail. ADME, toxicity, and drug-likeness predictions of the molecule were made. The study results showed that while the structural, chemical, and physical properties of the HQC molecule were severely affected when transferred to the solvent environment, they were less affected by the changes between solvent environments. In addition, very strong h-bond interactions are established between the solvent molecules and HQC.
Phenolic Acids Modulating Epigenetic Mechanisms in HepG2 Human Hepatoma Cells
Authors: Mutlu Doğukan , Kaya Dikici Nevin , Bozbeyoğlu Kart Naime Nur , Arslan Şevki
Published: May 2024

Phenolic compounds derived from plants exhibit an epigenetic modulatory impact in various cancer types by reversing DNA methylation patterns and chromatin modulation. In this study, caffeic acid (CA), ferulic acid (FA), and o-coumaric acid (OCA) mediated epigenetic alterations in hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) cells were investigated. For this purpose, changes DNMT enzyme activity and protein and mRNA levels of proteins involved in DNA methylation and histone acetylation were determined. The CA, FA, and OCA had cytotoxic activity at 48 h, with an EC50 value of 1.02, 3.1, and 5 mM in HepG2 cells, respectively. All compounds reduces the expression levels of histone acetyl transferases (HATs), histone deacetylases (HDACs) and DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs). All these results showed that phenolic acids may be used in cancer therapy as a potential epigenetic modifier.
Effects of rainfall pattern classification methods on the probability estimation of typhoon-induced debris-flow occurrence
Authors: Bai Zhixu , Yang Youjian , Guo Lin , Lin Leman
Published: May 2024

The frequent occurrence of typhoons causes geological disasters, such as debris flow and landslide, by bringing extreme rainfall events. Due to the lack of data collection on extreme rainfall events caused by typhoons, the relationship between rainfall patterns and debris flow has not been deeply studied. Therefore, based on hourly rainfall data during typhoons in Wenzhou from 1980 to 2017, this study used a variety of methods to classify the rainfall events and analyze the characteristics of typhoon-induced rainfall events and their impacts on the probability of debris-flow occurrence. Three classification techniques, including dynamic time warping, K-Means cluster, and self-organizing maps, are applied with two ways to normalize rainfall records, including dimensionless rainfall density curves and dimensionless rainfall cumulation curves, for extracting rainfall patterns from recorded 1 h rainfall data. The rainfall patterns are then used for the estimation of typhoon-induced debris-flow occurrence probability. Results show that different methods present different rainfall patterns. The probability of debris flows varies with different patterns of rainfall events. The research results help deepen the understanding of typhoon rainfall events and debris-flow disaster prevention in the region and contribute to regional flood control and disaster reduction.
Policy of Small Town Development: Lessons of Overseas Experience for Russia
Authors: Dmitrieva L. V.
Published: May 2024

The article studies the world experience in pursuing state policy of space development in remote territories and small towns in Germany, Japan, Poland, Slovenia, Check Republic and Italy. The article describes experience of these countries in developing territories characterized by depopulation, reducing real sector of economy and jobs, declining standard of living, rising costs of social infrastructure. It also analyzes dynamic of priorities in policy of territorial development depending on predominant academic concepts: from policy of leveling-up, developing endogenous factors of territories (policy established in the spot) to policy beyond growth limits. Negative experience of developing Check municipalities was shown and results of certain stages of policy in countries that could not reach the set goals were highlighted. On the basis of the analysis some common approaches were found, as well as tools, which proved their effectiveness in testing this experience for small towns in Russia. By analyzing practices of six overseas countries the author came to the conclusion that small towns often experience after-effects of urbanization, such as population outflow, its aging and economic stagnation. The most important conditions of pursuing state policy on such territories are as follows: search for finance sources for their support, maintenance of infrastructure and improvement of quality of state service rendering and creation of sources of endogenous development. Today we can observe the development of such concepts as ‘The Slow Town’ (Italy), ‘Life beyond Growth’ (Japan) that aim at shaping living conditions for people focusing on benefits of remote territories. At the same time trends of developing small towns advance specific requirements to implementing state branch policies, in particular, in the field of education, public health service, to new formats of rendering basic services, including remote territories in conditions of their low budget support.
Humic Acid Derived from Agricultural Biomass Mitigates Alveolar Bone Loss and Modulates Systemic Inflammatory Cytokines in Rats with Periodontitis
Authors: Orlando Patrícia Ribeiro , Tavares Hugo Giordano , de Souza Pereira Ramona Ramalho , Silva Gabriela , do Carmo Lima Carvalho Jaqueline , Machado Alan Rodrigues Teixeira , Dobbss Leonardo Barros , Peixoto Marco Fabrício Dias , Pereira Luciano Jose , Andrade Eric Francelino
Published: May 2024

Background:

Humic acid (HA) is a bioproduct that can be extracted from different
sources and has anti-inflammatory properties that have been little explored in the treatment and
prevention of Periodontal Disease (PD). Thus, we aimed to investigate the effects of oral administration
of HA on the progression of PD in rats.

Methods:

Twenty-four male Wistar rats were distributed into three experimental groups (Control/
Sham, PD, and PD + HA). HA was administered by gavage (80 mg/kg/day) for 28 days, and
PD was induced 14 days after the beginning of treatment. Bone loss, bone topography, and surface
elemental composition were analyzed. Circulating IL1-beta, TNF-alpha, and IL-10 levels
were evaluated through Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA).

Results:

The animals treated with HA showed lower bone loss (p < 0.05). Calcium and phosphorus
levels on the alveolar bone surface were lower in the PD group (p < 0.05) compared to the control
group, whereas the animals treated with HA exhibited attenuation in this loss (p < 0.05). The
animals treated with HA showed reduced TNF-alpha, IL1-beta, IL-10, and the TNF-alpha/IL-10
ratio compared to those with PD (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Treatment with HA attenuated the parameters of alveolar bone loss and modulated
systemic inflammatory parameters in rats with ligature-induced PD.
Bioinformatics Characteristics and Genomic Patterns of the Envelope Glycoproteins of the Crimean-congo Hemorrhagic Fever Viruses
Authors: Polanco Carlos , Uversky Vladimir N. , Huberman Alberto , Pimentel-Hernandez Claudia , Rios Castro Martha , Hernandez-Lemus Enrique , Buhse Thomas , Alarcon Gilberto Vargas , Roldan Gomez Francisco J. , Martinez-Garcia Mireya , Corona Gabriela Calvo-Leroux , Becerra-Luna Brayans , Gutierrez Juarez Cynthia Karen , Diaz Gonzalez Juan Luciano , Martinez-Memije Raul , Flores Ch Pedro L
Published: May 2024

Background:

Rodents and many wild and domestic animals, including cattle, donkeys,
goats, hares, ostriches, and sheep, spread the Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus (CCHFV),
acting as hosts for infected ticks primarily of the Hyalomma genus, which serve as vectors and reservoirs
of the virus. CCHF is a severe, potentially lethal, and widespread disease, making it a serious
public health issue. Environmental changes impacting rodent populations affect their global distribution
and, therefore, play a role in the spread of CCHFV.

Objective:

This study aims togain a deeper understanding of the envelope glycoproteins expressed by
the CCHFV.

Methods:

Multiple computational algorithms determined the Intrinsic Disorder Predisposition
(PIDP), Polarity Index, and genomic profiles of each sequence of the glycoproteins.

Results:

When examining the Polarity Index Method Profile, 3.0v profile, and the PIDP profile, the
envelope glycoproteins of the CCHFV showed different patterns. With these patterns, it was possible
to identify structural and morphological similarities.

Conclusion:

With the PIM 3.0v profile, our computer programs were able to identify isolated
CCHFV envelope glycoproteins. We believe that this research provides a deeper understanding of
this virus.
Muscle Transcriptome Provides Insights into the Allergen Profile of Habitat-specific Mature Hilsa shad (Tenualosa ilisha)
Authors: Mou Sadia Noor , Rupa Afsana Akter , Chowdhury Md. Arko Ayon , Rahi Md. Lifat , Baten Abdul , Ali Amin Ahsan , Khan Haseena , Amin Md. Ashraful , Islam Mohammad Riazul
Published: May 2024

Background:

Hilsa shad (Tenualosa ilisha) is a popular anadromous fish in Bangladesh
known to cause allergies. Despite recognized allergenicity, there is a paucity of research at the
molecular level on hilsa allergen.

Methods:

Muscle transcriptomes of hilsa from freshwater, brackish, and deep sea habitats were
sequenced using Illumina NovaSeq 6000 and assembled. BLASTx analysis of the Allergen Online
database identified potential allergens. The molecular docking study investigated parvalbumin’s
interaction with human IgE.

Results:

An analysis of hilsa muscle transcriptomes revealed 28 known fish allergens, including
parvalbumin, tropomyosin, including parvalbumin, tropomyosin, filamin C, creatine kinase-2,
aldolase A, triosephosphate isomerase B, and Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate Dehydrogenase
(G3PD). Creatine kinase showed significantly higher abundance (p < 0.05) and habitat variation
(freshwater vs. brackish water). In silico analysis suggested upregulation of Sal s 2 enolase and
Equ c 6 lysozyme in freshwater and brackish water compared to the deep sea. Docking studies
identified a potential B-cell epitope in parvalbumin that interacts with human IgE.

Conclusion:

This study has unveiled 28 potential allergens in hilsa, including habitat-specific variations.
The parvalbumin-IgE interaction has been suggested as a mechanism for allergies. The
findings have illuminated fish allergy in Bangladesh and paved the way for further investigation.
Urinary miRNAs: Technical Updates
Authors: Raveendran Santhi , Al Massih Alia , Al Hashmi Muna , Saeed Asma , Al-Azwani Iman , Mathew Rebecca , Tomei Sara
Published: May 2024

:

Due to its non-invasive nature and easy accessibility, urine serves as a convenient
biological fluid for research purposes. Furthermore, urine samples are uncomplicated to preserve
and relatively inexpensive.

:

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small molecules that regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally,
play vital roles in numerous cellular processes, including apoptosis, cell differentiation, development,
and proliferation. Their dysregulated expression in urine has been proposed as a potential
biomarker for various human diseases, including bladder cancer. To draw reliable conclusions
about the roles of urinary miRNAs in human diseases, it is essential to have dependable and
reproducible methods for miRNA extraction and profiling.

:

In this review, we address the technical challenges associated with studying urinary miRNAs and
provide an update on the current technologies used for urinary miRNA isolation, quality control
assessment, and miRNA profiling, highlighting both their advantages and limitations.
A Decade of Advancement in Ruthenium (II)-Catalyzed Direct C-H Activation and Consequent C-C/C-N Bond Formation Using Microwave Heating
Authors: Kausar Nazia
Published: May 2024

:

Transition-metal catalysed activation of unreactive C-H bonds and subsequent C-C bond formation has emerged as a principal and essential tool in the field of synthetic organic chemistry. On the other hand, the microwave heating technique has been intensively used to carry out organic transformation of almost all kinds and has become a promising non-conventional technique for performing synthetic reactions. Direct C-H activation for C-C bond-forming reactions using ruthe-nium as a catalyst is currently a hot topic and represents a cost-effective synthetic pathway in or-ganic chemistry which is accompanied by the advantages of MW irradiation resulting in shorter reaction time and greener 3 as well as sustainable accomplishments.
An Overview of Transferosomal Technology
Authors: Kumari Neha , Sharma Sumit
Published: May 2024

Ever since the invention of liposomes by Bangham in 1963, researchers have been fascinated
by the vesicular carriers. Liposomes and niosomes have been used extensively by researchers
for various routes such as oral and nasal. However, lately, it has been understood that traditional
liposomes are not very significant when it comes to penetration. The use of nanovesicles in
transdermal drug delivery systems has been enhanced exponentially ever since the discovery of ultra-
deformable liposomes known as transfersomes or transferosomes. Transferosomes have numerous
advantages, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, flexibility, and deformability, so that
they can pass through narrow constrictions. They have good entrapment efficiency and can act as
a depot to sustain the release of drugs. The methods of preparation include the rotary film evaporation
method, reverse phase evaporation method, vortexing sonication method, ethanol injection
method, and freeze-thaw method. Transfersomes are characterized by particle size, zeta potential,
polydispersity index, surface morphology, and encapsulation efficiency. Transferosomes have
been successfully exploited for the enhancement of efficacy of many drugs like Hydroquinone,
Itraconazole, Ivabradine, lornoxicam, minoxidil etc., via transdermal and nasal routes. The technology
is easy to scale up. Consequently, it can be inferred that transfersomes are the future of transdermal
drug delivery systems.
Samsun İlinde Sağlıklı Yaş Alma Merkezi’ne (YAŞAM) Kayıtlı Hasta Profilinin ve Sunulan Hizmetin Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: Yavuz Erdinç , Şimşek Yurt Nur , Kadıoğlu Kübra
Published: May 2024

Amaç: Çalışmamızda, Sağlık Bakanlığı tarafından Sağlıklı Yaş Alma Merkezi (YAŞAM) yönetmeliğinin yayınlanmasından hemen sonra, bir eğitim araştırma hastanesinde açılan YAŞAM’da kayıtlı kişilerin hastalık profili, polifarmasi ve verilen hizmetler açısından değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır.
Yöntem: Araştırmamız, 01.05.2023 ile 30.11.2023 tarihleri arasında YAŞAM birimine kaydedilen 80 yaş ve üzeri tüm hastaların dahil edildiği, kesitsel, tanımlayıcı bir çalışmadır. Merkeze kayıtlı tüm bireylerin yaş, cinsiyet, mevcut kronik hastalıkları, günlük düzenli ilaç kullanım durumları, beslenme destek ürün kullanımları ile YAŞAM’da gerçekleştirilen tüm tıbbi bakım hizmetleri değerlendirilerek çalışma formuna kaydedilmiştir. Veri analizi için SPSS 26.0 paket programı kullanılmış olup, p<0,05 anlamlı kabul edilmiştir.
Bulgular: YAŞAM birimine kaydedilen 355 hastanın tamamı çalışmaya dahil edildi. Hastaların %74,9’u (n=266) kadındı. Yaş ortalaması 86.53 ± 5.07’ydi. Bireylerin %81,1’inde (n=288) hipertansiyon, %60,6’sında (n=215) kardiyovasküler hastalık, %34,4’ünde (n=122) anksiyete-depresif bozukluklar, %29,6’sında (n=105) diyabet, %26,5’inde (n=94) demans tanısı mevcuttu. Bireylerin %13,0’ü (n=46) beslenme destek ürünü kullanıyordu. %51,0’inde (n=181) polifarmasi mevcuttu. Gerçekleştirilen toplam hasta ziyaret sayısı 663’tü. 545 muayene (%82,2) gerçekleştirildi. Evde gerçekleştiren tetkik sayısı 219’du (%33,0). İlaç ve malzeme raporları için hastanedeki YAŞAM polikliniğine yönlendirilen hasta sayısı 78’di (%21,9). 84 hasta (%23,6) ileri değerlendirme amacıyla, hastanede farklı tıbbi birimlere konsülte edildi.
Sonuç: YAŞAM’da, 80 yaş ve üzerindeki tüm bireylerin evinde veya yerinde tıbbi ihtiyaçları belirlenerek, sağlık hizmetlerine erişimleri kolaylaştırılmaktadır. Yaşlıların sağlık problemlerine zamanında, uygun ve etkili çözümler üretilmekte, periyodik değerlendirmeler ve uygun ölçeklerle uzun vadeli izlemleri gerçekleştirilmektedir.
Psychometric properties and measurement invariance of the sociocultural adjustment scale among international students in Malaysia
Authors:   Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia, En Cui , Rosnon Mohd Roslan ,   Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia, Zaremohzzabieh Zeinab ,   Institute for Social Science Studies, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia, Abd. Razak Muhammad Afiq ,   Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia, Amin Samir Muhazzab ,   Faculty of Human Ecology, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, 43400, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: May 2024

The sociocultural adaptation scale is a tool commonly used to assess how international students adjust to new cultures. Although it has been shown to be useful, there's little proof that it works well for students in non-Western countries. Our study aimed to create and test a version of this tool for international students in Malaysia, with 428 participants. We looked at whether the tool worked the same way for people of different genders, ages, and academic majors. At first, our results showed that the tool was not a perfect fit, but after careful adjustments, including removing items that did not fit well and improving how items were linked, we significantly improved how well the tool worked. The updated tool effectively measures how well international students adapt to new cultures. Moreover, our study found that the tool worked consistently across different demographic groups, offering new insights into how gender, age, and academic major affect students' sociocultural adaptation. These findings make the tool more useful in various settings and help us better understand the complex factors that influence how international students adjust to living in multicultural environments.
Findings From a National Survey of Older US Adults on Patient Willingness to Use Telehealth Services: Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Odebunmi Olufeyisayo O , Hughes Tamera D , Waters Austin R , Urick Benjamin Y , Herron Caroline , Wangen Mary , Rohweder Catherine , Ferrari Renée M , Marciniak Macary W , Wheeler Stephanie B , Brenner Alison T , Shah Parth D
Published: May 2024

Background

Telehealth (telemedicine and telepharmacy) services increase access to patient services and ensure continuity of care. However, few studies have assessed factors that influence patients’ willingness to use telehealth services, and we sought to investigate this.

Objective

This study aims to examine respondents’ (aged between 45 and 75 years) willingness to use telehealth services (telepharmacy and telemedicine) and the correlates of the willingness to use telehealth services.

Methods

We administered a cross-sectional national survey of 1045 noninstitutionalized US adults aged between 45 and 75 years in March and April 2021. Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to identify demographic and health service use correlates of self-reported willingness to use telehealth services.

Results

Overall willingness to use telemedicine was high (674/1045, 64.5%). Adults aged 55 years and older were less willing to use telemedicine (aged between 55 and 64 years: odds ratio [OR] 0.61, 95% CI 0.42-0.86; aged 65 years or older: OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.22-0.49) than those younger than 55 years. Those with a regular provider (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1-1.02) and long travel times (OR 1.75, 95% CI 1.03-2.98) were more willing to use telemedicine compared to those without a regular provider and had shorter travel times, respectively. Willingness to use telemedicine services increased from 64.5% (674/1045) to 83% (867/1045) if the service was low-cost or insurance-covered, was with their existing health care provider, or was easy-to-use. Overall willingness to use telepharmacy was 76.7% (801/1045). Adults aged older than 55 years were less willing to use telepharmacy (aged between 55 and 64 years: OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.38-0.86; aged 65 years or older: OR 0.24, 95% CI 0.15-0.37) than those younger than 55 years. Those who rated pharmacy service quality higher were more willing to use telepharmacy (OR 1.06, 95% CI 1.03-1.09) than those who did not.

Conclusions

Respondents were generally willing to use telehealth (telemedicine and telepharmacy) services, but the likelihood of their being willing to use telehealth decreased as they were older. For those initially unwilling (aged 55 years or older) to use telemedicine services, inexpensive or insurance-covered services were acceptable.
An Approach to the Design and Development of an Accredited Continuing Professional Development e-Learning Module on Virtual Care
Authors: Curran Vernon , Glynn Robert , Whitton Cindy , Hollett Ann
Published: May 2024

Virtual care appointments expanded rapidly during COVID-19 out of necessity and to enable access and continuity of care for many patients. While previous work has explored health care providers’ experiences with telehealth usage on small-scale projects, the broad-level adoption of virtual care during the pandemic has expounded opportunities for a better understanding of how to enhance the integration of telehealth as a regular mode of health care services delivery. Training and education for health care providers on the effective use of virtual care technologies are factors that can help facilitate improved adoption and use. We describe our approach to designing and developing an accredited continuing professional development (CPD) program using e-learning technologies to foster better knowledge and comfort among health care providers with the use of virtual care technologies. First, we discuss our approach to undertaking a systematic needs assessment study using a survey questionnaire of providers, key informant interviews, and a patient focus group. Next, we describe our steps in consulting with key stakeholder groups in the health system and arranging committees to inform the design of the program and address accreditation requirements. The instructional design features and aspects of the e-learning module are then described in depth, and our plan for evaluating the program is shared as well. As a CPD modality, e-learning offers the opportunity to enhance access to timely continuing professional education for health care providers who may be geographically dispersed across rural and remote communities.
Sociodigital Determinants of eHealth Literacy and Related Impact on Health Outcomes and eHealth Use in Korean Older Adults: Community-Based Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Kyaw Myat Yadana , Aung Myo Nyein , Koyanagi Yuka , Moolphate Saiyud , Aung Thin Nyein Nyein , Ma Hok Ka Carol , Lee Hocheol , Nam Hae-Kweun , Nam Eun Woo , Yuasa Motoyuki
Published: May 2024

Background

eHealth literacy is an essential skill for pursuing electronic health information, particularly for older people whose health needs increase with age. South Korea is now at the intersection of a rapidly digitalizing society and an increasingly aged population. eHealth literacy enables older people to maximize the effective use of emerging digital technology for their health and quality of life. Understanding the eHealth literacy of Korean older adults is critical to eliminating the gray digital divide and inequity in health information access.

Objective

This study aims to investigate factors influencing eHealth literacy in older Korean adults and its impact on health outcomes and eHealth use.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional survey. Community-dwelling older adults 65 years and older in 2 urban cities in South Korea were included. eHealth literacy was measured by the eHealth Literacy Scale. Ordinal logistic regression was used to analyze factors associated with eHealth literacy and multivariate ANOVA for the impact of eHealth literacy on health outcomes and eHealth use.

Results

In total, 434 participants were analyzed. A total of 22.3% (97/434) of participants had high eHealth literacy skills. Increasing age, higher monthly income, and time spent on the internet were significantly associated with eHealth literacy (P<.001), and social media users were 3.97 times (adjusted odds ratio 3.97, 95% CI 1.02‐15.43; P=.04) more likely to have higher skill. Higher eHealth literacy was associated with better self-perceived health and frequent use of digital technologies for accessing health and care services (P<.001).

Conclusions

Disparity in socioeconomic status and engagement on the internet and social media can result in different levels of eHealth literacy skills, which can have consequential impacts on health outcomes and eHealth use. Tailored eHealth interventions, grounded on the social and digital determinants of eHealth literacy, could facilitate eHealth information access among older adults and foster a digitally inclusive healthy aging community.
The Cooperation Between Nurses and a New Digital Colleague “AI-Driven Lifestyle Monitoring” in Long-Term Care for Older Adults: Viewpoint (Preprint)
Authors: Groeneveld Sjors , Bin Noon Gaya , den Ouden Marjolein E M , van Os-Medendorp Harmieke , van Gemert-Pijnen J E W C , Verdaasdonk Rudolf M , Morita Plinio Pelegrini
Published: May 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

Technology has a major impact on the way nurses work. Data-driven technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), have particularly strong potential to support nurses in their work. However, their use also introduces ambiguities. An example of such a technology is AI-driven lifestyle monitoring in long-term care for older adults, based on data collected from ambient sensors in an older adult’s home. Designing and implementing this technology in such an intimate setting requires collaboration with nurses experienced in long-term and older adult care. This viewpoint paper emphasizes the need to incorporate nurses and the nursing perspective into every stage of designing, using, and implementing AI-driven lifestyle monitoring in long-term care settings. It is argued that the technology will not replace nurses, but rather act as a new digital colleague, complementing the humane qualities of nurses and seamlessly integrating into nursing workflows. Several advantages of such a collaboration between nurses and technology are highlighted, as are potential risks such as decreased patient empowerment, depersonalization, lack of transparency, and loss of human contact. Finally, practical suggestions are offered to move forward with integrating the digital colleague.
Data Analytics to Support Policy Making for Noncommunicable Diseases: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Dritsakis Giorgos , Gallos Ioannis , Psomiadi Maria-Elisavet , Amditis Angelos , Dionysiou Dimitra
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

There is an emerging need for evidence-based approaches harnessing large amounts of health care data and novel technologies (such as artificial intelligence) to optimize public health policy making.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this review was to explore the data analytics tools designed specifically for policy making in noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and their implementation.

METHODS

A scoping review was conducted after searching the PubMed and IEEE databases for articles published in the last 10 years.

RESULTS

Nine articles that presented 7 data analytics tools designed to inform policy making for NCDs were reviewed. The tools incorporated descriptive and predictive analytics. Some tools were designed to include recommendations for decision support, but no pilot studies applying prescriptive analytics have been published. The tools were piloted with various conditions, with cancer being the least studied condition. Implementation of the tools included use cases, pilots, or evaluation workshops that involved policy makers. However, our findings demonstrate very limited real-world use of analytics by policy makers, which is in line with previous studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the availability of tools designed for different purposes and conditions, data analytics is not widely used to support policy making for NCDs. However, the review demonstrates the value and potential use of data analytics to support policy making. Based on the findings, we make suggestions for researchers developing digital tools to support public health policy making. The findings will also serve as input for the European Union–funded research project ONCODIR developing a policy analytics dashboard for the prevention of colorectal cancer as part of an integrated platform.
Assessment of Wearable Device Adherence for Monitoring Physical Activity in Older Adults: A Pilot Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Ding Huitong , Ho Kristi , Searls Edward , Low Spencer , Li Zexu , Rahman Salman , Madan Sanskruti , Igwe Akwaugo , Popp Zachary , Burk Alexa , Wu Huanmei , Ding Ying , Hwang Phillip H. , Anda-Duran Ileana De , Kolachalama Vijaya B , Gifford Katherine , Shih Ludy C. , Au Rhoda , Lin Honghuang
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Physical activity has emerged as a modifiable behavioral factor to improve cognitive function. However, research into the adherence to remote monitoring of physical activity in older adults remains limited.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess the adherence in remote monitoring of physical activity in older adults within a pilot cohort from objective user data, providing insights for the scalability of such monitoring approaches in larger, more comprehensive future studies.

METHODS

This study included 22 participants from the Boston University Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (BU ADRC) Clinical Core. These participants opted into wearing the Verisense watch as part of their everyday routine during 14-day intervals every three months. Eighteen continuous physical activity measures were assessed. Adherence was quantified daily and cumulatively across the follow-up period. The coefficient of variation was used as a key metric for assessing data consistency across participants over multiple days. Day-to-day variability was estimated by calculating intraclass correlation coefficients using a two-way random-effects model for the baseline, second, and third days.

RESULTS

Adherence to the study on a daily basis outperformed cumulative adherence levels. The median proportion of adherence days (wearing time surpassed 90% of the day) stood at 92.1%, with an interquartile range spanning from 86.9% to 98.4%. However, at the cumulative level, 31.8% of participants in this study exhibited lower adherence, with the device worn on fewer than 4 days within the requested initial 14-day period. Five physical activity measures have high variability for some participants. Consistent activity data for four physical activity measures might be attainable with just a three-day period of device use.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that while older adults generally showed high daily adherence to the wearable device, consistent usage across consecutive days proved difficult. These findings underline the effectiveness of wearables in monitoring physical activity in older populations and emphasize the ongoing necessity to simplify usage protocols and enhance user engagement to guarantee the collection of precise and comprehensive data.
Implementing a digital mental health intervention to support children with anxiety: using the Lumi Nova app with children from economically-disadvantaged areas (Preprint)
Authors: Whelan Pauline , Tranter Heidi , Carter Lesley-Anne , Sainsbury John , Rathee Manjul , Stockton-Powdrell Charlotte , Bolton Niamh , Abel Kathryn Mary
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health problems experienced by children worldwide. In the UK, many children experiencing anxiety do not receive adequate or timely help. Children living in economically-disadvantaged areas experience more mental health problems than those living in high income areas and are less able to engage in activities that can have a positive or protective impact on their mental health. The need for providing low-cost, accessible and engaging mental health interventions for children living in these areas is high.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to explore how a digital mental health therapeutic, ‘Lumi Nova: Tales of Courage’, could be used to support children living with anxiety in economically-disadvantaged areas.

METHODS

A mixed method study design was used to explore the implementation of Lumi Nova using a supported delivery model with mental health teams based in the North of England. Quantitative data collection on recruitment and engagement patterns were collected and analysed. Qualitative research explored children, parent and practitioner views and experiences with the Lumi Nova app.

RESULTS

113 children were consented to use Lumi Nova and 98 (87%) accessed the intervention at least once. Qualitative semi-structured interviews found that children, their parents and practitioners viewed the Lumi Nova app positively. Quantitative analysis of the recruitment data suggested the feasibility of a future larger roll-out. Analysis of usage data demonstrated varied patterns of engagement with the intervention. The frequency and duration of usage varied across children, as did the activities completed within the game: almost half (49%) completed three in-game challenges indicating progression through the treatment pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

The study demonstrated that a digital mental health intervention could be successfully deployed within economically-disadvantaged areas in the UK to support children experiencing anxiety. Expected barriers to the deployment of digital mental health interventions in economically-disadvantaged areas (e.g. lack of access to smartphones, data plans, lack of technical skills) were not reported. Digital mental health interventions have the potential to address current gaps in mental health provision for disadvantaged individuals and communities.