bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Outcome of Tuberculous Meningitis with Hydrocephalus — A Retrospective Study
Authors:   Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia, Kanesen Davendran ,   Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Umum Sarawak, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, Kandasamy Regunath ,   Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia, Sii Hieng Albert Wong ,   Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Umum Sarawak, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, Tharakan John ,   Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia, Chien Joo Lim ,   Clinical Research Centre, Hospital Umum Sarawak, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia, Abdullah Jafri Malin ,   Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia,   Brain and Behaviour Cluster, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia
Published: October 2021

Background: To study the clinical outcome of tuberculous meningitis with hydrocephalus (TBMH) and the factors contributing to its poor clinical outcome. Methods: Clinical data of 143 adult patients diagnosed with TBM over a 6-year period in two tertiary hospitals in Malaysia were retrospectively reviewed. Relevant clinical and radiological data were studied. Patients with TBMH were further analysed based on their clinical grade and rendered treatment to identify associated factors and outcome of this subgroup of patients. The functional outcome of patients was assessed at 12 months from treatment. Results: The mean age of patients was 35.6 (12.4) years old, with a male gender predominance of 67.1%. Forty-four percent had TBMH, of which 42.9% had surgical intervention. In the good modified Vellore grade, 76.5% was managed medically with concurrent antituberculosis treatment (ATT), steroids and osmotic agents. Four patients had surgery early in the disease as they did not respond to medical therapy and reported a good outcome subsequently. Poor outcome (65.2%) was seen in the poor modified Vellore grade despite medical and surgical intervention. Multivariate model multiple Cox regression showed significant results for seizure (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 15.05; 95% CI: 3.73, 60.78), Glasgow coma scale (GCS) (aHR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.70, 0.89) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cell count (aHR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.05, 1.17). Conclusion: Hydrocephalus was seen in 44% of patients in this study. GCS score, seizure and high CSF cell count were factors associated with a poor prognosis in TBM. Patients with TBMH treated medically (TBMHM) had better survival function compared to TBMH patients undergoing surgical intervention (TBMHS) (P-value < 0.001). This retrospective study emphasises that TBMH is still a serious illness as 47.6% of the patients had poor outcome despite adequate treatment.
Conjunto de Redes Neurais Artificiais para Detecção Online de Fótons de Altas Energias
Authors: Marin Juan , Simas Eduardo , Souza Edmar , Peralva Bernardo , Pinto João , Araújo Micael , Seixas José Manoel
Published: October 2021

A correta identificação de partículas é um dos principais objetivos de experimentos de física de altas energias. Devido a alta taxa de eventos no Grande Colisor de Hádrons (LHC), o experimento ATLAS tem empregado técnicas baseadas em aprendizado de máquina a fim de encontrar eventos raros em grandes massas de dados. Entre eles está o NeuralRinger, um conjunto classificador de rede neural projetado para detecção rápida de elétrons com base em anéis concêntricos de calorímetro (sistema de medição de energia). Nesse contexto, o presente trabalho propõe a adaptação desta técnica, que opera identificando elétrons, para a detecção rápida de fótons. Os resultados com dados simulados mostram a eficiência do método proposto no ambiente do experimento ATLAS.
El Interaccionismo Simbólico de Mead y el Argumento en favor del Indeterminismo de Popper
Authors: Posada Zapata Isabel Cristina , Carmona Parra Jaime Alberto
Published: October 2021

El artículo presenta un recorrido por algunas expresiones discursivas del Determinismo y el Indeterminismo, desde la Grecia Clásica hasta la Ciencia Moderna, como preámbulo para comprender el lugar del Interaccionismo Simbólico de George Mead en las Ciencias Sociales, para luego explorar la relación de ésta perspectiva teórica y metodológica con una propuesta de Karl Popper expuesta en su texto póstumo “El Universo Abierto, un argumento en favor del Indeterminismo ” y mostrar las potentes y posibles articulaciones entre ambas perspectivas. De esta revisión puede concluirse que el Interaccionismo se sitúa como una solución dialéctica entre los postulados del Determinismo y del Indeterminismo, en la que se ofrece la perspectiva de un ser humano activo que, como agente, construye su vida en la interacción con otros referentes simbólicos. El agente como actor se sitúa en un plano donde deviene como producto y productor de su vida a partir del lenguaje.
Comparison of different statistical downscaling models and future projection of areal mean precipitation of a river basin under climate change effect
Authors: Guven Aytac , Pala Abdulhadi
Published: October 2021

Investigation of the hydrological impacts of climate change at the local scale requires the use of a statistical downscaling technique. In order to use the output of a Global Circulation Model (GCM), a downscaling technique is used. In this study, statistical downscaling of monthly areal mean precipitation in the Göksun River basin in Turkey was carried out using the Group Method of Data Handling (GMDH), Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Gene Expression Programming (GEP) techniques. Large-scale weather factors were used for the basin with a monthly areal mean precipitation (PM) record from 1971 to 2000 used for training and testing periods. The R2-value for precipitation in the SVM, GEP and GMDH models are 0.62, 0.59, and 0.6 respectively, for the testing periods. The results show that SVM has the best model performance of the three proposed downscaling models, however, the GEP model has the lowest AIC value. The simulated results for the Canadian GCM3 (CGCM3) A1B and A2 scenarios show a similarity in their average precipitation prediction. Generally, both these scenarios anticipate a decrease in the average monthly precipitation during the simulated periods. Therefore, the results of the future projections show that mean precipitation might decrease during the period of 2021–2100.
The Role of Endothelial Related Circulating Biomarkers in
COVID-19. A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Lampsas Stamatios , Tsaplaris Paraskevas , Pantelidis Panteleimon , Oikonomou Evangelos , Marinos Georgios , Charalambous Georgios , Souvaliotis Nektarios , Mystakidi Vasiliki-Chara , Goliopoulou Athina , Katsianos Efstratios , Siasos Gerasimos , Vavuranakis Michael-Andrew , Tsioufis Costas , Vavuranakis Manolis , Tousoulis Dimitrios
Published: October 2021

Background:

Several studies have revealed the link between Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and endothelial dysfunction. To better understand the global pattern of this relationship, we conducted a meta-analysis on endothelial biomarkers related to COVID-19 severity.

Methods:

We systematically searched the literature up to March 10, 2021, for studies investigating the association between COVID-19 severity and the following endothelial biomarkers: Intercellular Adhesion Molecule 1 (ICAM-1), Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule 1 (VCAM-1), E-selectin, P-selectin, Von Willebrand Factor Antigen (VWF-Ag), soluble Thrombomodulin (sTM), Mid-regional pro-adrenomedullin (MR-proADM), and Angiopoietin-2 (Ang-2). Pooled estimates and mean differences (PMD) for each biomarker were reported.

Results:

A total of 27 studies (n=2213 patients) were included. Critically ill patients presented with higher levels of MR-proADM (PMD: 0.71 nmol/L, 95% CI: 0.22 to 1.20 nmol/L, p=0.02), E-selectin (PMD: 13,32 pg/ml, 95% CI: 4,89 to 21,75 pg/ml, p=0.008), VCAM-1 (PMD: 479 ng/ml, 95% CI: 64 to 896 ng/ml, p=0.03), VWF-Ag (PMD: 110.5 IU/dl, 95% CI: 44.8 to 176.1 IU/dl, p=0.04) and Ang-2 (PMD: 2388 pg/ml, 95% CI: 1121 to 3655 pg/ml, p=0.003), as compared to non-critically ill ones. ICAM-1, P-selectin and thrombomodulin did not differ between the two groups (p>0.05).

Conclusion:

Endothelial biomarkers display significant heterogeneity in COVID-19 patients, with higher MR-proADM, E-selectin, VCAM-1, VWF-Ag, and Ang-2 levels being associated with increased severity. These findings strengthen the evidence on the key role of endothelial dysfunction in disease progress.
Student Responses to Online Learning of Indonesian Language Subjects Based on LMS Moodle
Authors: Setyaningsih Vitria Indriyani , Rahmawati Laili Etika
Published: October 2021

This study aims to describe students' responses to online learning of Indonesian language subjects based on Moodle LMS at SMP Negeri 17 Surakarta. The research approach used is descriptive qualitative research. The subject and object of the study focused on seventh grade students of SMP Negeri 17 Surakarta and Indonesian language teachers. The data collection technique in this study was through interview techniques by distributing questionnaires through Google Forms and literature studies. Data analysis techniques used interactive analysis techniques consisting of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The validity of the data was tested using data triangulation techniques and data sources. The results of this study indicate that the students' responses to online learning in Indonesian subjects showed a positive response. The questionnaire shows that students feel happy in online learning using the LMS Moodle for Indonesian subjects. The delivery of the subject matter is very easy to understand because the teacher uses animated videos and video teaching materials. The obstacles experienced during the learning process were handled well by the school's IT team and subject teachers who were very responsive. Respon Siswa terhadap Pembelajaran Daring Mata Pelajaran Bahasa Indonesia Berbasis LMS MoodlePenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan respons siswa terhadap pembelajaran daring mata pelajaran Bahasa Indonesia berbasis LMS Moodle di SMP Negeri 17 Surakarta. Metode penelitian dilakukan melalui survey pendapat dari siswa menggunakan google form. subjek dan objek penelitian berfokus terhadap siswa kelas VII SMP Negeri 17 Surakarta dan guru Bahasa Indonesia. Teknik pengumpulan data dalam penelitian ini melalui teknik wawancara dengan menyebarkan kuesioner melalui Google Form dan studi pustaka. Teknik analisis data menggunakan teknik analisis interaktif yang terdiri dari reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Uji keabsahan data dilakukan dengan teknik triangulasi data dan sumber data. Hasil penelitian ini yaitu respons siswa terhadap pembelajaran daring mata pelajaran Bahasa Indonesia menunjukkan respons yang positif. Kuesioner menunjukkan, siswa merasa senang dalam pembelajaran daring menggunakan LMS Moodle untuk mata pelajaran Bahasa Indonesia penyampaian materi pelajaran sangat mudah untuk dipahami karena guru menggunakan video animasi dan video bahan ajar.  Kendala yang dialami ketika proses pembelajaran pun ditangani dengan baik oleh tim IT sekolah serta guru mata pelajaran yang sangat responsive.
Languaging Myths and Realities
Authors: Zhang-Wu Qianqian
Published: October 2021

Drawing on a digital ethnography of Chinese international students’ first semester languaging practices, this book examines how they use their multilingual and multi-modal communicative repertories to facilitate languaging across contexts, in order to suggest how universities might better serve the needs of international students.
Assessing Elderly User Preference for Telehealth Solutions in China: Exploratory Quantitative Study
Authors: Chen Nuoya , Liu Pengqi
Published: October 2021

Background

In the next 15 to 20 years, the Chinese population will reach a plateau and start to decline. With the changing family structure and rushed urbanization policies, there will be greater demand for high-quality medical resources at urban centers and home-based elderly care driven by telehealth solutions. This paper describes an exploratory study regarding elderly users’ preference for telehealth solutions in the next 5 to 10 years in 4 cities, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Wuhan, and Yichang.

Objective

The goal is to analyze why users choose telehealth solutions over traditional health solutions based on a questionnaire study involving 4 age groups (50-60, 61-70, 71-80, and 80+) in 4 cities (Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Wuhan, and Yichang) in the next 10 to 20 years. The legal retirement age for female workers in China is 50 to 55 years and 60 years for male workers. To simulate reality in terms of elderly care in China, the authors use the Chinese definition of elderly for employees, defined as being 50 to 60 years old rather than 65 years, as defined by the World Health Organization.

Methods

The questionnaires were collected from Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Wuhan, and Yichang randomly with 390 valid data samples. The questionnaire consists of 31 questions distributed offline on tablet devices by local investigators. Subsequently, Stata 16.0 and SPSS 24.0 were used to analyze the data. O-logit ordered regression and principal component analysis (PCA) were the main theoretical models used. The study is currently in the exploratory stage and therefore does not seek generalization of the results.

Results

Approximately 71.09% (280/390) of the respondents reported having at least 1 type of chronic disease. We started with PCA and categorized all Likert scale variables into 3 factors. The influence of demographic variables on Factors 1, 2, and 3 was verified using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t tests. The ordered logit regression results suggest that health-related motivations are positively related to the willingness to use telehealth solutions, and trust on data collected from telehealth solutions is negatively correlated with the willingness to use telehealth solutions.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that there is a need to address the gap in community health care and ensure health care continuity between different levels of health care institutions in China by providing telehealth solutions. Meanwhile, telehealth solution providers must focus on improving users’ health awareness and lower health risk for chronic diseases by addressing lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and social activity. The interoperability between the electronic health record system and telehealth solutions remains a hurdle for telehealth solutions to add value in health care. The hurdle is that doctors neither adjust health care plans nor diagnose based on data collected by telehealth solutions.
Mobile Apps Leveraged in the COVID-19 Pandemic in East and South-East Asia: Review and Content Analysis
Authors: Lee Bohee , Ibrahim Siti Aishah , Zhang Tiying
Published: October 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic increased attention to digital tools to support governmental public health policies in East and South-East Asia. Mobile apps related to the COVID-19 pandemic continue to emerge and evolve with a wide variety of characteristics and functions. However, there is a paucity of studies evaluating such apps in this region, with most of the available studies conducted in the early days of the pandemic.

Objective

This study aimed to examine free apps developed or supported by governments in the East and South-East Asian region and highlight their key characteristics and functions. We also sought to interpret how the release dates of these apps were related to the commencement dates of other COVID-19 public health policies.

Methods

We systematically searched for apps in Apple App Store and Google Play Store and analyzed the contents of eligible apps. Mobile apps released or updated with COVID-19–related functions between March 1 and May 7, 2021, in Singapore, Taiwan, South Korea, China (mainland), Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines were included. The CoronaNet Research Project database was also examined to determine the timeline of public health policy commencement dates in relation to the release dates of the included apps. We assessed each app’s official website, media reports, and literature through content analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize relevant information gathered from the mobile apps using RStudio.

Results

Of the 1943 mobile apps initially identified, 46 were eligible, with almost 70% of the apps being intended for the general public. Most apps were from Vietnam (n=9, 20%), followed by Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand (n=6 each, 13%). Of note, most apps for quarantine monitoring (n=6, 13%) were mandatory for the target users or a population subset. The most common function was health monitoring (32/46, 70%), followed by raising public health awareness (19/46, 41%) through education and information dissemination. Other functions included monitoring quarantine (12/46, 26%), providing health resources (12/46, 26%). COVID-19 vaccination management functions began to appear in parallel with vaccine rollout (7/46, 15%). Regarding the timing of the introduction of mobile solutions, the majority of mobile apps emerged close to the commencement dates of other public health policies in the early stages of the pandemic between March and April 2020.

Conclusions

In East and South-East Asia, most governments used mobile health apps as adjuncts to public health measures for tracking COVID-19 cases and delivering credible information. In addition, these apps have evolved by expanding their functions for COVID-19 vaccination.
Medical Specialists' Perspectives on the Influence of Electronic Medical Record Use on the Quality of Hospital Care: Semistructured Interview Study (Preprint)
Authors: van Poelgeest Rube , Schrijvers Augustinus , Boonstra Albert , Roes Kit
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Numerous publications show that electronic medical records (EMRs) may make an important contribution to increasing the quality of care. There are indications that particularly the medical specialist plays an important role in the use of EMRs in hospitals.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine how, and by which aspects, the relationship between EMR use and the quality of care in hospitals is influenced according to medical specialists.

METHODS

To answer this question, a qualitative study was conducted in the period of August-October 2018. Semistructured interviews of around 90 min were conducted with 11 medical specialists from 11 different Dutch hospitals. For analysis of the answers, we used a previously published taxonomy of factors that can influence the use of EMRs.

RESULTS

The professional experience of the participating medical specialists varied between 5 and 27 years. Using the previously published taxonomy, these medical specialists considered technical barriers the most significant for EMR use. The suboptimal change processes surrounding implementation were also perceived as a major barrier. A final major problem is related to the categories “social” (their relationships with the patients and fellow care providers), “psychological” (based on their personal issues, knowledge, and perceptions), and “time” (the time required to select, implement, and learn how to use EMR systems and subsequently enter data into the system). However, the medical specialists also identified potential technical facilitators, particularly in the assured availability of information to all health care professionals involved in the care of a patient. They see promise in using EMRs for medical decision support to improve the quality of care but consider these possibilities currently lacking.

CONCLUSIONS

The 11 medical specialists shared positive experiences with EMR use when comparing it to formerly used paper records. The fact that involved health care professionals can access patient data at any time they need is considered important. However, in practice, potential quality improvement lags as long as decision support cannot be applied because of the lack of a fully coded patient record.
Survey of the Use of Physician Review Websites in Patients Under Orthopaedic Care (Preprint)
Authors: Joo Peter , Cook Carolyn , Kayihura Ingabire , Paul Jennifer , Menga Emmanuel , Ketz John , Mahmood Bilal , Oh Irvin , Mannava Sandeep , Balkissoon Rishi , Mesfin Addisu
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Physician-rating websites (PRWs) are rising in popularity as the healthcare sector focuses more on patient-centered value-based care delivery. Recent studies have reported that the vast majority of orthopaedic surgeons across subspecialties already have at least one rating or review on at least one PRW. However, there are few studies identifying patient-facing factors related to the knowledge and use of PRWs and the level of influence PRWs may have on patient decision-making.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study are: 1) to determine the prevalence of PRW use by patients seeking orthopaedic care, 2) to identify the influence PRWs have on patient decision-making, and 3) to identify factors associated with knowledge and use of PRWs.

METHODS

Survey administration was performed at three outpatient orthopaedic multi-specialty. Patients were asked about demographic characteristics including age, sex, occupation, and education, as well as their familiarity with PRWs, use of PRWs, and how PRWs have influenced their decision to see their surgeon.

RESULTS

A total of 350 patients completed the survey. The majority were women (59%) and Caucasian (77%), and the mean age of the population was 58 years old (range 15-91). 155 patients (44%) reported being somewhat (31%) or very (13%) familiar with PRWs, and 195 patients (56%) reported no familiarity with PRWs. Patients most familiar with PRWs were between 45-64 years old (p = 0.02), women (p < 0.01), had graduate/professional degrees (p < 0.01), and seen by adult reconstruction surgeons (p = 0.02). Seventy-two percent of patients utilizing PRWs reported that PRWs had an impact on their decision to see their chosen provider, with 93% noting ratings and reviews as the most valuable information.

CONCLUSIONS

Many patients in this study were not familiar with PRWs and did not utilize PRWs prior to their visit. However, most patients who did consult PRWs reported that the ratings and reviews did have an impact in their decision to choose their orthopaedic specialist. As PRW use increases, factors that influence patient decision-making are important to understand for surgeons and administrators.
Peer Review of “A Local Community-Based Social Network for Mental Health and Well-being (Quokka): Exploratory Feasibility Study” (Preprint)
Authors: Mehdizadeh Hamed
Published: October 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

This is a peer review report for ms#24972.
Distributed machine learning methods for the support of "Many-Labs" collaborations in computational modelling of decision making: A comparative study (Preprint)
Authors: Zhang lili , Vashisht Himanshu , Totev Andrey , Trinh Nam , Ward Tomas
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Deep learning models are potentially useful for modeling the complex learning processes and decision-making strategies used by humans. Such neural network models make fewer assumptions about the underlying mechanisms compared to cognitive models, the latter being used widely in the field of computational psychiatry. These less-restrictive models provide greater experimental flexibility in terms of applicability and are increasingly investigated in this field. However, this comes at the cost of involving a larger set of parameters requiring significantly more data for effective learning. This presents practical challenges given that most cognitive experiments involve relatively small numbers of subjects. Laboratory collaborations are a natural way to increase overall dataset size. However, data sharing barriers between laboratories as necessitated by data protection regulations encourage the search for alternative methods to enable collaborative data science.

OBJECTIVE

Distributed learning, especially federated learning (FL), which supports the preservation of data privacy, is a promising method for addressing this issue.
To verify the reliability and feasibility of applying FL to train neural networks models used in the characterization of decision making, we conducted experiments on a real-world, “many-labs” data pool including experiment datasets from ten independent studies.

METHODS

The performance of single models trained on single laboratory datasets was poor. This unsurprising finding supports the need for laboratory collaboration to train more reliable models. To that end we evaluated four collaborative approaches. The first approach represents conventional centralized learning (CL-based) and is the optimal approach but requires complete sharing of data which we wish to avoid. The results however establish a benchmark for the other three approaches, federated learning (FL-based), incremental learning (IL-based), and cyclic incremental learning (CIL-based).

RESULTS

We evaluate these approaches in terms of prediction accuracy and capacity to characterise human decision-making strategies. The FL-based model achieves performance most comparable to that of the CL-based model.

CONCLUSIONS

This indicates that FL has value in scaling data science methods to data collected in computational modelling contexts when data sharing is not convenient, practical or permissible.

CLINICALTRIAL
EpiHacks, a Process for Technologists and Health Experts to Cocreate Optimal Solutions for Disease Prevention and Control: User-Centered Design Approach (Preprint)
Authors: Divi Nomita , Smolinski Mark
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Technology-based innovations that are created collaboratively by local technology specialists and health experts can optimize the addressing of priority needs for disease prevention and control. An EpiHack is a distinct, collaborative approach to developing solutions that combines the science of epidemiology with the format of a hackathon. Since 2013, a total of 12 EpiHacks have collectively brought together over 500 technology and health professionals from 29 countries.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to define the EpiHack process and summarize the impacts of the technology-based innovations that have been created through this approach.

METHODS

The key components and timeline of an EpiHack were described in detail. The focus areas, outputs, and impacts of the twelve EpiHacks that were conducted between 2013 and 2021 were summarized.

RESULTS

EpiHack solutions have served to improve surveillance for influenza, dengue, and mass gatherings, as well as laboratory sample tracking and One Health surveillance, in rural and urban communities. Several EpiHack tools were scaled during the COVID-19 pandemic to support local governments in conducting active surveillance. All tools were designed to be open source to allow for easy replication and adaptation by other governments or parties.

CONCLUSIONS

EpiHacks provide an efficient, flexible, and replicable new approach to generating relevant and timely innovations that are locally developed and owned, are scalable, and are sustainable.
An Innovative, Paradigm-Shifting Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Glucose Excursions With the Use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring to Educate, Motivate, and Activate Adults With Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes: Pilot Feasibility Study (Preprint)
Authors: Oser Tamara K , Cucuzzella Mark , Stasinopoulos Marilyn , Moncrief Matthew , McCall Anthony , Cox Daniel J
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a growing epidemic in the United States, and metabolic control has not been improved over the last 10 years. Glycemic excursion minimization (GEM) is an alternative lifestyle treatment option focused on reducing postnutrient glucose excursions rather than reducing weight. GEM has been proven to be superior to routine care when delivered face to face, and equivalent or superior to conventional weight loss therapy, but it has not been evaluated among patients newly diagnosed with T2D or in a self-administered format.

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study evaluated the feasibility of a self-administered version of GEM, augmented with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), to improve metabolic control (hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c]) while diminishing or delaying the need for diabetes medications in adults recently diagnosed with T2D. These primary objectives were hypothesized to be achieved by reducing carbohydrate intake and increasing physical activity to diminish CGM glucose excursions, leading to the secondary benefits of an increase in diabetes empowerment and reduced diabetes distress, depressive symptoms, and BMI.

METHODS

GEM was self-administered by 17 adults recently diagnosed with T2D (mean age 52 years, SD 11.6 years; mean T2D duration 3.9 months, SD 2.5 months; mean HbA1c levels 8.0%, SD 1.6%; 40% female; 33.3% non-White), with the aid of a 4-chapter pocket guide and diary, automated motivational text messaging, and feedback from an activity monitor, along with CGM and supplies for the 6-week intervention and the 3-month follow-up. Treatment was initiated with one telephone call reviewing the use of the technology and 3 days later with a second call reviewing the use of the GEM pocket guide and intervention.

RESULTS

At 3-month follow-up, 67% of the participants’ diabetes was in remission (HbA1c levels <6.5%), and only one participant started taking diabetes medication. Participants demonstrated a significant reduction in HbA1c levels (–1.8%; P<.001). Participants also experienced significant reductions in high-glycemic-load carbohydrates routinely consumed, CGM readings that were >140 mg/dL, diabetes distress, depressive symptoms, and BMI. Participants felt that use of the CGM was the most significant single element of the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

GEM augmented with CGM feedback may be an effective initial intervention for adults newly diagnosed with T2D. A self-administered version of GEM may provide primary care physicians and patients with a new tool to help people recently diagnosed with T2D achieve remission independent of medication and without weight loss as the primary focus. Future research is needed with a larger and more diverse sample.
Automated Control of a Wind Generator for Agricultural Production
Authors:   Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM, Ukhanova Viktoriya Yu.
Published: October 2021

The use of inexhaustible or renewable energy sources (water, wind, solar, Earth heat) is an urgent task both in Russia and in the world. According to expert estimates, the Russian Federation has a large global wind potential. Efficient use of energy resources, including renewable energy sources, is the way to increase the energy efficiency of agricultural production. The share of energy consumption in the total cost of production reaches 32 percent in some industries. In recent years, many new consumers have arised, for whom the choice of a rational energy supply system is important at the design stage. For producers of agricultural products, the problem of the quality of electricity supply is also acute. Taking into account the specifics of agricultural areas, it can be concluded that it is local and renewable energy sources that will help to successfully solve the problems of uninterrupted energy supply and energy conservation. (Research purpose) The research purpose is in assessing the impact of the quality of electricity supply on agricultural production facilities and identifying modern domestic equipment that reduces the risks of using renewable energy sources in agricultural production. (Materials and methods) Author used the calculation and analytical method to evaluate the average indicators of electricity costs at livestock enterprises. The article presents a review of the automated control systems of the wind generator based on the equipment of the Russian manufacturer OWEN. (Results and discussion) Author studied the control system of a wind generator on the example of an installation used in the territory of the agricultural enterprise "Melnikovo" of the Gvardeysky district of the Kaliningrad region. The control system reduces the risks associated with the operation of the wind generator. (Conclusions) This system, which was put into operation in 2019, makes it possible to avoid failures in the operation of the wind generator. Work is underway to develop modern technical solutions for remote recovery of wind turbines, which is important when services are remote.
Mathematical Model of Wood Drilling Taking into Account the Mutual Infl uence of Electric Motors of Feed and Cutting
Authors:   Don State Technical University, Lapshin Viktor P. , Turkin Il’ya A. , Omelechko Valentin Yu.
Published: October 2021

The Russian economy currently needs new approaches to solving old problems, that is, such methods that would increase the efficiency of production. In the case of woodworking, we can talk about the introduction of new management principles that ensure a higher quality of processing, even on old woodworking machines and centers. The implementation of such methods is impossible without the development of modern mathematical models of the cutting process, including wood drilling. (Research purpose) The research purpose is in constructing of a mathematical model that reflects the dynamics of wood processing by drilling, which is interconnected through the cutting process. (Materials and methods) Authors used mathematical and numerical modeling with extensive use of mathematical software packages, such as the MatLab mathematical modeling environment. (Results and discussion) The article presents the graphs of the drilling process state in the form of numerical simulation results carried out in the Matlab environment. (Conclusions) The article presents the developed model of the dynamics of the cutting system in two versions. The first version takes into account only the moments and forces associated with the formation of the cutting force in the processing zone. The second model includes an additional moment of resistance associated with the accumulation of chips in the chip-removing channels of the drill. This process has a significant impact on the stability of drilling, with the accumulation of chips in excess of a certain value, the system loses stability and there are raise the possibility of failure of both the drill and the entire spindle assembly. The developed mathematical model of the drilling control system, represented by the system of equations, adequately describes the process of wood processing by drilling on woodworking equipment.
Measurement Tools for Non-Invasive Monitoring of the Plants Growth Conditions by Using Hyperspectral Imaging Methods: a Review
Authors:   Federal Scientific Agroengineering Center VIM, Burynin Dmitriy A. , Smirnov Aleksandr A.
Published: October 2021

Portable spectroradiometers and hyperspectral cameras are increasingly being used to quickly assess the physiological state of plants. The operation of these devices is based on the registration of reflection or reflection and transmission spectra. (Research purpose) The research purpose is in analyzing the technical means and methods of non-invasive monitoring of the plant state based on the registration of the reflection spectra of leaves. (Materials and methods) The article presents a review of the work on the application of hyperspectral imaging methods. Authors classified and analyzed materials on spectroscopic radiometers and hyperspectral cameras, and outlined the prospects for implementation. Authors applied the methods of a systematic approach to the research problem. (Results and discussion) Hyperspectral imaging methods serve as an effective means of monitoring plants. It is possible to determine the pigment composition of plants, lack of nutrition, and detect biotic stress through hyperspectral imaging. The article presents methods of application of portable spectroradiometers and hyperspectral cameras. With the help of these devices it is possible to carry out measurements with high spectral resolution. The difficulty of accurately detecting the content of pigments in the leaves lies in the mutual overlap of the areas of light absorption by them. The main drawback of spectroradiometers is that they measure only at one point on a single sheet. The article presents the difficulties encountered in interpreting the results obtained by the hyperspectral camera. The background reflectivity of the soil, the geometry of the vegetation cover, and the uneven lighting can make errors in the measurements. (Conclusions) The article presents the disadvantages of the hyperspectral imaging method when using only the reflection spectrum. In order to increase the accuracy of the determination of pigments and stresses of various origins, it is necessary to develop a portable device that combines the methods of recording reflection and fluorescence.
Experimental Studies of VKR-4 Fans Working in Agricultural Premises
Authors:   Azov-Black Sea Engineering Institute – branch of the Don State Agrarian University in Zernograd, Ksenz Nikolay V. , Stepanchuk Gennadiy V. , Gulyaev Pavel V. , Pupenko Konstantin K.
Published: October 2021

One of the most important factors for increasing productivity in animal husbandry, poultry farming, and in greenhouse complexes, including for growing mushrooms, is the microclimate. To ensure normal air exchange in agricultural premises, roof fans with horizontal discharge of the VKR-4 type are recommended and used. When using ventilation equipment, it is necessary to take into account the technological requirements for creating a microclimate and the capabilities of the equipment. (Research purpose) The research purpose is in justifying the rational parameters of the system for creating a microclimate in agricultural premises when using a fan of the VKR-4 type, and to give recommendations to the agricultural producer. (Materials and methods) Authors investigated the efficiency of regulating the performance of the ventilation system by means of a valve in the exhaust shaft of the ventilator and by changing the supply voltage of the electric motor. (Results and discussion) The article presents experimental studies of the operation of the ventilation system when using a roof fan of the VKR-4 type to determine its effectiveness in order to maintain the required zootechnical parameters in rooms for keeping animals at the lowest energy costs. (Conclusions) Regulating the performance of the ventilation unit by means of a mechanical flap in the exhaust shaft of the fan by changing the angle of its opening is uneconomical. The regulation by reversing the electric motor provides a 1:2 ratio of the air supply, but the power consumption of the electric motor increases almost twice during the reverse. When the fan performance is controlled by changing the motor voltage from 70 to 173 volts of line voltage, the performance increases, but with a further increase in voltage, it does not change, and the power consumption continues to increase.
Ustilago maydis como posible bioindicador de cultivos saludables de Zea mays
Authors: Monar Barragán Henry Paul , Lagla Chimba Evelyn Gabriela , López Tipán Stephanie Carolina
Published: October 2021

Ustilago maydis se trata de un hongo fitopatógeno relacionado a los cultivos de maíz (Zea mays). El proceso de micosis se ve reflejada por el aparecimiento de hipertrofias de las mazorcas. Durante décadas este organismo ha sido considerado una plaga en los cultivos, sin embargo, actualmente destaca en la gastronomía Centroamericana. La baja incidencia de infección en los cultivos no transgénicos, requerimientos ambientales específicos y co-adaptación entre la especie fúngica y vegetal son características que le otorgan la capacidad bioindicadora. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo demostrar el potencial uso de U. maydis como indicador de cultivos saludables de Z. mays. Se evaluaron 2 parcelas de 1000 m2 ubicadas en la parroquia Tambillo, Pichincha-Ecuador, identificando la presencia del hongo parásito en los frutos, además de la biodiversidad asociada. La presencia de infecciones micóticas en las parcelas lejos de ser indicativo de una plaga, es señal de un ambiente propicio para el desarrollo de procesos ecológicos, entre los cuales destaca la dispersión de esporas que se encuentra vinculada a la polinización. Los resultados obtenidos a partir de las parcelas evaluadas confirman a esta especie fúngica como indicador de cultivos sanos de maíz.
Sentiment and Stock Returns: A Case for Conventional and Islamic equities in Pakistan
Authors: Tauseef Sana
Published: October 2021

The study constructs market sentiment index over the period from August 2009 to June 2019 and examines the causality between market sentiment and returns for conventional and Islamic stocks in Pakistan. Using the firm-level data for all stocks listed on Pakistan Stock Exchange, market sentiment index is constructed as the first principal component of six variables: advances-to-decline, premium on dividends, price-to-earnings, relative strength, money flow and turnover rate. We employ the Vector auto-regression model to examine the two-way causal relationship between investor sentiment and aggregate stock return. Our results show that market sentiment has strong predictive power for subsequent conventional stock returns. Sentiment based trading actions of the investors cause persistence in conventional stock returns for one month; however, as these stocks become overpriced, the price movement reverses in two months’ time. In contrast, we do not find any significant association between market sentiment and Islamic stock returns. Our findings are suggestive of different dynamics and investor behavior in Islamic financial markets of Pakistan and along with the existing literature documenting Islamic stocks performance to be at least as good as the conventional stock can be a comfort to the Muslim Investors and may serve as the catalyst to stimulate the growth of Islamic equities.
Return spillover across Bitcoin markets and foreign exchange pairs dominated in major trading currencies
Authors: Owais Qarni Muhammad , Gulzar Saqib
Published: October 2021

This study examines the dynamic nature of return spillover across Bitcoins indices and foreign exchange pairs denominated in 6 major trading currencies. The findings of spillover index, Spillover Asymmetry Measure (SAM) and frequency connectedness methodologies indicate that return spillover across Bitcoin markets and foreign exchange pairs dominated in six major trading currencies is very low. The intra-market return spillover for the Bitcoin markets and foreign exchange pairs is found to be significant. Presence of asymmetry in the return spillover is also found. Evidence indicates that return spillover are dominated in short horizon, with significant spillover occurring within 4 days of an event. The low integration of Bitcoin markets with the foreign exchange markets provide significant implication for portfolio diversification and risk minimization.
Elimination of Stray Forces from Tire Dynamics Measurements or Beware the Backpath
Authors: Potts Gerald R.
Published: October 2021

The forces that enter the mounted tire spindle of laboratory-type tire dynamics test machines include the following items: (1) direct tire-generated forces, tire nonuniformities, and tread pattern vibrations; (2) direct tire-transmitted rough road surface or cleat impact forces; (3) direct machine resonance-amplified versions of items 1 and 2; (4) machine frame backpath-transmitted versions of items 1–3; (5) dynamic loadcell crosstalk; (6) external noise from foundation vibrations; and (7) adjacent load station vibrations traveling through the machine frame. Although items 1 and 2 are sought in spindle vibration measurements, items 3–7 are also included in the mix and confound the measurement, confusing the analyst into thinking that machine properties are tire properties. Not only do items 3–6 not exist in vehicle operation but also comparison of results from one test machine to another can be an exercise in comparing machine to machine, not tire to tire. Tire dynamics measurements should simulate tires in roadway operation, not create a whole new set of problems that do not exist in vehicles. Elimination of item 7 paved the way to developing a tire failure warning system that operates on tire endurance test machines and can be adapted for operation on passenger vehicles to warn the driver of tire trouble. This article develops the theory of stray force measurement, describes a method for eliminating stray forces from experimental tire dynamics data, and provides experimental verification of the effectiveness of these methods.
PENGARUH MODEL PEMBELAJARAN KOOPERATIF TIPE NHT TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR TEKNIK DASAR PASSING BOLA VOLI
Authors: Patah Mayza Pironanda , Artanayasa I Wayan , Suwiwa I Gede
Published: October 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh model pembelajaran Kooperatif tipe Numbered Head Together (NHT) terhadap hasil belajar teknik dasar passing bola voli. Jenis penelitian adalah eksperimen sungguhan (true experimental) dengan rancangan the randomized pretest-posttest control group the same subjec design. Populasi penelitian ini adalah seluruh siswa kelas XI SMA Saraswati Seririt tahun pelajaran 2019/2020, keseluruhan kelas berjumlah 5 kelas dengan populasi 180 orang. Pengambilan sampel yang digunakan simple random sampling berdasarkan kelas. Kelas yang menjadi sampel penelitian adalah kelas XI IIS 4 sebagai kelompok eksperimen dan XI MIA sebagai kelompok kontrol. Eksperimen dilakukan sebanyak 2 kali perlakuan diluar pretes-posttest. Data hasil belajar dikumpulkan melalui tes objektif, observasi dan unjuk kerja. Analisis data menggunakan uji-t dengan bantuan SPSS 16.0 for Windows. Ratarata kelompok eksperimen adalah 0.70 lebih tinggi dari rata-rata kelompok kontrol adalah 0.62. Signifikansi pada uji hipotesis diperoleh melalui uji parametrik (uji Independent Samples Test) adalah 0.019 yaitu p<0,05. Disimpulkan bahwa model pembelajaran Kooperatif tipe Numbered Head Together (NHT) berpengaruh signifikan terhadap hasil belajar teknik dasar passing bola voli. Disarankan kepada guru penjasorkes dapat menerapkan model pembelajaran Kooperatif tipe Numbered Head Together (NHT) karena terbukti berpengaruh signifikan terhadap hasil belajar siswa.
Pengembangan Media Video Pembelajaran Materi Passing Bolavoli SMP Kelas VII
Authors: Simbolon Markus Dominique , Wahjoedi Wahjoedi , Spyanawati Ni Luh Putu
Published: October 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengembangkan produk media pembelajaran berupa media video pembelajaran materi passing bolavoli untuk kelas VII SMP Negeri 4 Singaraja. Model pengembangan yang digunakan adalah model ADDIE meliputi 5 tahap yaitu:  tahap Analisis (Analyze), Perancangan (Design), Pengembangan (Development), Penerapan (Implementation), dan Evaluasi (Evaluation). Metode pengumpulan data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah wawancara, pencatatan dokumen dan kuesioner. Prosedur validasi media video yaitu diawali dengan uji ahli isi mata pelajaran, ahli desain pembelajaran, ahli media pembelajaran. Data dianalisis dengan teknik analisis deskriptif kualitatif dan analisis deskriptif kuantitatif. Hasil penelitian berdasarkan tanggapan para ahli yaitu Ahli Isi Pembelajaran 90% (Sangat Baik), Ahli Media Pembelajaran 95% (Sangat Baik) dan Ahli Desain Pembelajaran 94% (Sangat Baik). Selama proses pengembangan, aspek yang diperbaiki adalah intensitas Penyempurnaan media pada video dari tanggapan para Ahli. Dari hasil diatas maka dapat dikatakan bahwa media video pembelajaran dengan model ADDIE materi passing bolavoli dapat dikatakan valid dan dapat digunakan untuk mendukunng proses pembelajaran atau penelitian lebih lanjut.