bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Loneliness among Chinese adults: Validation of the ALONE scale and its association with age
Authors: Ma Ying , Leung Patrick , Berg-Weger Marla , Cheung Monit , Malmstrom Theodore K. , Ma Guixia , Chen Xin
Published: November 2024

Background This study translated the 5-item ALONE scale into Chinese and psychometrically validated the translated scale among Chinese adults, and determined the association between age and loneliness.
Methods An online cross-sectional survey was conducted using the Wenjuanxing platform in mainland China in 2022. A total of 2,019 Chinese adults (≥ 18 years) participated in this study.
Results The translated ALONE scale demonstranted an acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.600) and a moderate association with the ULS-8 (r=0.606). Scores of the translated scale showed a stronger association with self-rated health than with other related variables. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis identified scores of 10 or greater as optimal for loneliness screening (sensitivity=0.88, specificity=0.74, and Area Under the Curve=0.899). Results from a locally weighted scatterplot smoothing (LOESS) curve found a non-linear age distribution of loneliness, marked by two minor peaks after adjustment (at ages 25 and age 50 for the total sample). The loneliness levels were lowest among older adults (≥ 60 years). Females reached peak loneliness approximately 10 years later than males. Logistic regression identified an inverse association between age and loneliess levels.
Conclusions This study confirms the reliability and validity of the Chinese ALONE Scale for loneliness screening. Additionally, our findings offer valuable insights into vulnerability to loneliness across the lifespan within the Chinese context, supporting the development of age-specific interventions to address loneliness effectively.
A Deep Reinforcement Learning Approach to Solving the Digital Billboard Optimal Placement Problem Based on Multi-Source Spatiotemporal Data Fusion
Authors: Zhou Junyuan , Wang Shaohua , Yan Haowen , Li Xiao , Liang Haojian , Li Pengze
Published: November 2024

The study presents a study on optimizing the spatial location of digital billboards in urban environments using multi-source big data and deep reinforcement learning methods. Focusing on the Fifth Ring Road in Beijing, China, the study aims to solve the Maximum Coverage-Digital Billboard Localization Problem (MC-DBLP) model. This paper describes the data collection and preprocessing process, the use of geo-detectors and attention models, and an evaluation of the effectiveness of deep reinforcement learning methods compared to traditional optimization solvers. The authors propose a new solution model for the digital billboard placement problem. The method is universal and scalable, which can provide a reference for similar problems in other fields. Multi-sourced spatiotemporal data are incorporated to unify the data format of factors and, an attention model multi-decoder (AMMD), Gurobi solver, and a heuristic algorithm are used to solve the problem. The results show that the Gurobi solver produces the best solution results, and the optimal digital billboard locations are obtained. In the future, the authors plan to select more various and complex influencing factors and explore more efficient and accurate algorithm models to better solve location optimization problems.
Phytoplankton Assemblages as Indicators of Environmental Changes in Afrotropical Reservoirs: A Study of Hydrological Impacts and Water Quality
Authors: Akachukwu Esther N. , Obi-Iyeke Grace E. , Ajai Alexander I. , Mohammed Adamu Z. , Arimoro Francis O.
Published: November 2024

Reservoirs are crucial to Nigeria's landscape and electricity generation; however, their establishment poses significant ecological challenges, particularly concerning water quality and phytoplankton dynamics. This research investigates phytoplankton assemblages in ten reservoirs across Niger State, Nigeria. Sampling was conducted bi-monthly from June 2019 to March 2021, evaluating physical and chemical parameters alongside phytoplankton composition. A two-way ANOVA was used to assess the spatial and seasonal variation in environmental conditions, while Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) was used to explore the relationships between phytoplankton assemblages and environmental variables. Our findings reveal differing levels of organic pollution across the reservoirs, affirming phytoplankton as effective bioindicators of ecological health. This study emphasizes the necessity for strategic management practices to safeguard aquatic ecosystems in alignment with sustainable development goals.
Regulatory Pathways of Long Non-coding RNAs and MicroRNAs in Sepsis-Induced Cardiomyopathy: Prognostic Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Eini Peyman , amini Nahal Babaeian , Farzan Parsa , Etemady Kimiya , Eini Pooya , Doosti-Irani Amin
Published: November 2024

Sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SCM) is a life-threatening complication of sepsis, marked by temporary myocardial dysfunction. Emerging evidence highlights the critical roles of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulating the molecular pathways involved in SCM, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis. These non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are increasingly recognized as valuable diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as promising therapeutic targets. This review explores the potential of lncRNAs and miRNAs in SCM, focusing on their regulatory functions and therapeutic applications. Key miRNAs, such as miR-495 and miR-21-3p, are highlighted as early diagnostic indicators and modulators of disease progression. Similarly, lncRNAs like MALAT1 and HOTAIR play crucial roles in controlling fibrosis and inflammation within the myocardium. Therapeutic strategies include the use of miRNA mimics to restore miRNA function, antagomiRs to inhibit overexpressed miRNAs, and the modulation of lncRNA expression to mitigate SCM progression. Advanced delivery methods, including CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology, are discussed as innovative approaches to enhance the specificity and efficacy of ncRNA-based therapies. In conclusion, ncRNAs offer significant potential as biomarkers and therapeutic agents in SCM, presenting new avenues for targeted treatment. However, further research is required to address challenges related to delivery, specificity, and long-term safety in clinical applications.
Biological Soil Crusts Reveal New Species Records and Diverse Cyanophytes in the Arid Suburbs of Punjab, Pakistan: Implications for Algal Systematics and Evolution
Authors: Minhas Lubna Anjum , Kaleem Muhammad , Jabeen Amber , Waqar Rooma , Farooqi Umer , Mumtaz Abdul Samad
Published: November 2024

In the arid suburbs of Rawalpindi, we found as many as thirty species that belonged to seventeen genera and three major orders in the class Cyanophyceae. Based on species count, the orders Nostocales and Oscillatorales revealed more diverse (36.6%) as compared to the Chroococcales (16.6%). The genera Oscillatoria and Nostoc with 6 species (16.6%) were the most represented followed by Anabaena (10%), Chroococcus (10%), Phormidium, and Lyngbya (6.6% each). Several genera such as Calothrix, Parakomarekiella, Gloeothecca, Aphanotheca, Leptolyngbya, Synechococcus, Spirulina, Planktothrix, Westilliopsis and Compactonostoc with one species (33%) each remained least represented. Most interestingly, Nostoc pruniforme, Anabaena oryzae, Anabaena gelatinicola, Calothrix javanica, Westiellopsis prolifica, Parakomarekiella sesnandensi, Compactonostoc shennongjiaensis, Oscillatoria lutea, Planktothrix agardhii, and Leptolyngbya boryana are being reported for the first time as residents of biocrust soil substrate. Data collation on species distribution did not reveal any endemic species however recognized the occurrence of species in Pakistan that are not yet reported from Asia. Hence, the arid suburbs of Rawalpindi are rich in cyanophytes, exhibiting local variation with several new records. Most of these strains showed an in vitro culturing response, and therefore warrants probing their ecological functioning in the arid environments of the Asian continent.
Relationship Between Temporomandibular Disorders, Anxiety, and Sleep Quality in Dental Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Dere Kadriye Ayça
Published: November 2024

Background
This study aimed to measure the frequencies of stress, anxiety, sleep quality, and temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) among dental students and evaluate their relationships.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among dentistry students studying at dental schools in Turkey. Participating students were administered a survey consisting of the Fonseca Anamnestic Index (FAI) to evaluate TMD; the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS)-21 to evaluate depression, anxiety, and stress; and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) to evaluate sleep quality. Analysis methods included descriptive statistics, the Kruskall–Wallis H test, the Mann–Whitney U Test, and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient.
Results
This survey included 1162 dental students, including 824 (70.91%) females, 333 (28.66%) males, and 5 (0.43%) LGBTIQA + individuals. The FAI (p < 0.001) and DASS-21 anxiety (p < 0.001) and stress (p < 0.007) scores were significantly higher in females than males. The global PSQI scores were significantly higher in males than females (p < 0.007). The FAI scores (p < 0.001); DASS-21 depression (p < 0.001), anxiety (p < 0.001), and stress (p < 0.001) scores; and global PSQI scores (p = 0.002) differed significantly by grade.
Conclusions
Stress, anxiety, and depression contribute to the development of TMD. Females experience greater TMD, stress, anxiety, and depression during their education life, while males have a worse sleep quality. TMD, anxiety, depression, and stress levels are lowest at the start of the training and increase over the years as theoretical and practical training progresses.
Repurposed Drugs as PCSK9-LDLR Disruptors for Lipid Lowering and Cardiovascular Disease Therapeutics
Authors: Aggarwal Shelly Singhal  nee , Kaur Divpreet , Saluja Daman , Srivast Kamna
Published: November 2024

The PCSK9 protein binds to LDL receptors (LDLR), leading to their degradation and reduced expression on cell surfaces. This decreased clearance of LDL cholesterol from bloodstream, thereby increasing the risk of coronary artery diseases. Targeting the PCSK9-LDL receptor interaction is crucial for regulating LDL cholesterol levels and preventing cardiovascular disease. This study aims to screen low molecular weight inhibitors to disrupt the PCSK9-LDLR interaction. We employed a comprehensive approach combining high throughput virtual screening of DrugBank database, followed by molecular docking studies using CDOCKER and flexible docking methods. The top four lead compounds were further validated through molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and binding free energy calculations using MM-PBSA. Finally, the in-vitro assay confirmed the Benazepril and Quinapril exhibiting the highest potency as PCSK9-LDLR disruptor amongst the top candidates. These lead compounds have the potential to be repurposed as lipid-lowering agents for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases, offering a promising therapeutic strategy.
RNA N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) regulates the cell cycle in Diffuse Midline Glioma (DMG) and confers sensitivity to FTO inhibition
Authors: Ross Samuel E. , Holliday Holly , Wang Eyden , Zeraati Mahdi , Tsoli Maria , Ziegler David S. , Dinger Marcel E.
Published: November 2024

Background: Diffuse Midline Gliomas (DMG) are deadly pediatric brain cancers with limited treatment options. These tumors likely arise from oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPC) that acquire a driver histone mutation, leading to an aberrant epigenome. RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is a vital epi-transcriptomic modification that regulates RNA processes and plays a significant role in OPC development through its regulation of transcripts involved in histone modification processes. Despite this pivotal role in OPC biology, the epi-transcriptome has not yet been investigated in DMG, and its interrogation may uncover new therapeutic options and improve our understanding of this disease.
Results: Therefore, for the first time, we generated base-resolution m6A landscapes for patient-derived DMG cultures and revealed a critical role in cell cycle regulation. We also found that DMG is sensitive to the inhibition of the m6A demethylase Fat Mass and Obesity Associated (FTO), with this inhibition leading to decreased survival and S-phase arrest/stress. Additionally, key cell cycle regulators, such as PLK1, are m6A-modified, contain YTHDF2 binding sites, and show significant changes following FTO inhibition on transcriptomic and proteomic levels.
Conclusions: Here, we provide the first epi-transcriptomic and m6A resource for DMG and reveal a crucial link between m6A modifications and cell cycle regulation. Furthermore, we show that this relationship confers sensitivity to the inhibition of the m6A demethylase FTO, with inhibition resulting in decreased survival and cell-cycle dysregulation. Collectively, these findings highlight the epi-transcriptome and its regulators as promising therapeutic targets for this currently uncurable disease.
Effect of dapagliflozin on rat and human cardiac fibroblasts physiology cultured in diabetic media conditions
Authors: Wilfred Obaalologhi
Published: November 2024

Heart failure (HF) is a disease caused by defects in myocardial structure and function which results to impaired ventricular filling of the ejection of blood, and mostly due to reduced myocardial function of the left ventricle, impairment of the myocardium, endocardium, great vessels, pericardium, heart valves, either in combination or alone, presenting symptoms which include fatigue, oedema, shortness of breath, abdominal distention and right hypochondrial pain. HF, which is classed into HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has been linked to elevated glucose levels seen in diabetic patients, which is also linked to increased fibrosis which impacts on myocardial function. Unfortunately, no effective drug is yet developed for the treatment HFpEF. In the current study, I investigated the effect of dapagliflozin (dapa) on cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) physiology in diabetic media conditions using rat cardiac fibroblasts (RcFbs) and human cardiac fibroblasts (HcFbs). Experiments were performed to study the effects of elevated glucose with/without dapa on gene expressions of human collagen-1 (col1a2), calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II delta (CAMK2D) and glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), Ca2+ release and migration and proliferation assays of CFs were assessed using confocal microscopy and countess counter. Our study demonstrates that dapa has a potential in wound healing, and has been shown to increase Ca2+ mobilization in diabetic cultured cells. Although dapa impaired col1a2 expression in diabetic condition, it showed no significant change on CAMK2D expression in diabetic conditions. The implication of these findings suggests that dapa could be a potentially therapeutic agent in treating HF as it has been shown to improve wound healing (via the scratch assay), increased proliferation of cells and increased col1a2 expression.
Audience characteristics of the specialized press (on the example of the newspaper «Yurydychna Praktyka», Kyiv, 1995-)
Authors: Haladzhun Zoriana
Published: November 2024

Introduction. The specialized press operating in the media market of Ukraine is represented by many publications in which the target audience is interested. In addition to business, medical, literary and artistic, and other magazines, the system of specialized press in Ukraine also includes legal publications. Researching the audience of the legal press is useful for many reasons, in particular, to know whom to direct communication to (who is the consumer of information), whose interests to take into account, what topics to choose, how to design the publication, etc.
The purpose of the study is to examine, on the basis of the analysis of the achievements of Ukrainian and foreign scholars and practitioners in the media sphere, the audience features of the specialized publication «Yurydychna Praktyka» and to form a portrait of its readership. To achieve the purpose of the study, general scientific and special methods were used, in particular: historical – to study the state of media audience research; comparative – to identify trends in the formation of the audience of a specialized newspaper based on the collected data; inductive – to summarize the identified trends and formulate conclusions; typologization – to differentiate information according to the elements of the structure of specialized publications. In solving certain research tasks at different stages of the study, empirical and theoretical methods were used: observation, description, classification and systematization.
Results. In the context of our study, special attention should be paid to the opinion of researchers Ohmichen E. and Reeder K.-M., who believe that, according to the criterion of motives, all users (the audience of the publication) are divided into those who are focused on information of a certain type and those who are looking for entertainment, and that a person’s belonging to one or another type of user is influenced primarily by social status and the requirements of the profession. The audience of the legal publication mainly consists of persons who are citizens of Ukraine, have a higher legal education, speak the state language fluently or to the extent that corresponds to the level determined by the National Commission on State Language Standards, have experience in the field of law or in certain legal positions.
Conclusions. To summarize, the media audience is the real consumers of the media product created by different types of editorial offices. If in the past the audience was the object to which the media message was directed, today, due to high competition in the market, the audience influences the topics and issues of the editorial content, i.e., once an external factor of a journalist’s creativity has become his or her customer for a certain type of information.
Topological dipole insulator
Authors: Lam Ho Tat , Han Jung Hoon , You Yizhi
Published: November 2024

We expand the concept of two-dimensional topological insulators to encompass a novel category known as topological dipole insulators (TDIs), characterized by conserved dipole moments along the xx-direction in addition to charge conservation. By generalizing Laughlin’s flux insertion argument, we prove a no-go theorem and predict possible edge patterns and anomalies in a TDI with both charge U^e(1)Ue(1) and dipole U^d(1)Ud(1) symmetries. The edge of a TDI is characterized as a quadrupolar channel that displays a dipole U^d(1)Ud(1) anomaly. A quantized amount of dipole gets transferred between the edges under the dipolar flux insertion, manifesting as ‘quantized quadrupolar Hall effect’ in TDIs. A microscopic coupled-wire Hamiltonian realizing the TDI is constructed by introducing a mutually commuting pair-hopping terms between wires to gap out all the bulk modes while preserving the dipole moment. The effective action at the quadrupolar edge can be derived from the wire model, with the corresponding bulk dipolar Chern-Simons response theory delineating the topological electromagnetic response in TDIs. Finally, we enrich our exploration of topological dipole insulators to the spinful case and construct a dipolar version of the quantum spin Hall effect, whose boundary evidences a mixed anomaly between spin and dipole symmetry. Effective bulk and the edge action for the dipolar quantum spin Hall insulator are constructed as well.
NEUROPROTECTION AND COGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT BY GINKGO BILOBA IN MCAO MICE
Authors:   Dept. of Pharmacology, Professor, SIMS College of Pharmacy, Guntur., Suprathika Mandala , Kumar Yerragopu Anil ,   Dept. of Pharmacology, Professor, SIMS College of Pharmacy, Guntur., Sirisha Y. ,   Dept. of Pharmacology, Professor, SIMS College of Pharmacy, Guntur., L. Harini A. ,   Dept. Pharmaceutical Analysis, SIMS College of Pharmacy, Guntur., Muneer G. ,   Dept. Pharmaceutical Analysis, SIMS College of Pharmacy, Guntur., .R. Rahul S ,   Dept. of Pharmacology, Professor, SIMS College of Pharmacy, Guntur., N. Sambasivanaik ,   Dept. Pharmaceutical Analysis, SIMS College of Pharmacy, Guntur.
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects of Ginkgo biloba in a mouse model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). Different doses of Ginkgo biloba (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg) were administered post-ischemia, with the 100 mg/kg dose showing the most significant neuroprotection, enhancing neuronal survival and improving cognitive outcomes. The optimal dose preserved neurons in the ischemic penumbra, upregulated neurotrophic factors (BDNF and NGF), and improved spatial and recognition memory in behavioral tests. The 200 mg/kg dose, while effective, demonstrated mild toxicity. Overall, Ginkgo biloba exhibited potential as a therapeutic agent for ischemic stroke, offering neuroprotective benefits comparable to nimodipine, with additional neurogenesis-promoting properties.
PHOTOIONIZATION STUDY OF THE SINGLETS [1S22P(2P3/2)NS 1P, 1S22P (2P)ND 1P, 1S22P (2P1/2)NP 1P, 1S22P (2P3/2)NP 1D] AND TRIPLETS [1S22P (2PO)NS 3P0,1,2 ] RYDBERG SERIES FOR THE NIV IONS VIA THE MODIFIED ATOMIC ORBITAL THEORY
Authors:   Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, University Cheikh Anta DIOP of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal., Faye Abdou , Sow Malick ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, University Cheikh Anta DIOP of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal., Kebe Moustapha ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, University Cheikh Anta DIOP of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal., Astou Thiam Ndeye ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, University Cheikh Anta DIOP of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal., Diaw Sory ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, University Cheikh Anta DIOP of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal., Baba Omar ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, University Cheikh Anta DIOP of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal., Mamadou Ndiaye Dia Papa ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, University Cheikh Anta DIOP of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal., Tidiane Diouf Cheikh ,   Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies, University Cheikh Anta DIOP of Dakar, Dakar, Senegal.
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we report resonance energies and quantum defect of the singlets 1s22p (2P3/2)ns 1P, 1s22p (2P)nd 1P , 1s22p (2P1/2)np 1P, 1s22p (2P3/2)np 1D and triplets 1s22p (2Po)ns 3P0,1,2 , Rydberg series from the ground state of N3+ (NIV) ions. Calculations are performed from n =3 to n =20 using the Modified Atomic Orbital Theory (MOAT) formalism. Very good agreements are seen between the present calculations and the available theoretical and experimental data. The present predicted data up to n = 20 may be a great importance for the atomic physics communityin connection with the understanding of the chemical evolution of the N element in the Universe.
ULTRASONOGRAPHY EVALUATION OF PEDIATRIC NECK MASSES
Authors:   Department of Radiodiagnosis, MRMC, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences., N. Greeshma , Melkundi Shivanand ,   Department of Radiodiagnosis, MRMC, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences.
Published: November 2024

Background: Neck masses are a frequent discovery in children and pose challenges in diagnosis. These masses can stem from congenital, inflammatory, neoplastic, or vascular origins. Understanding the cervical anatomy and compartments is crucial for differential diagnosis. There are different cystic lesions like ranula, thyroglossal cyst, brachial cyst, lymphangioma and vascular malformation and solid lesions like reactive lymph nodes,thyroid lesions,ectopic thymus etc.Rare lesions like teratoma,rhabdomyosarcoma,neurofibroma also exists. Aims: To assess congenital and acquired neck masses in children using ultrasonography (USG) and correlate imaging findings with pathology. Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study involved 30 pediatric patients with clinically palpable neck swellings referred for USG. Imaging was followed by necessary USG-guided procedures, and radiological findings were compared with histopathology. Results: Among 30 patients, 68% were male and 32% female. Most patients (53%) were aged 1-10 years. Right-sided lesions were most common (41.15%), with bilateral (17.25%) and midline (11.5%) presentations noted. Inflammatory causes were predominant (76.1%), followed by congenital (16.3%) and neoplastic (7.5%). USG revealed features such as reactive lymphadenitis (14 cases), TB lymphadenitis (6 cases), abscesses (2 cases, confirmed by aspiration), thyroglossal cysts (3 cases), lipomas (2 cases, confirmed by histopathology), malignancies (2 cases, confirmed by biopsy), and a branchial cyst (1 case). Conclusion: Pediatric neck masses are common and diagnostically challenging. Detailed clinical history, physical examination, and knowledge of cervical anatomy are crucial for accurate diagnosis. Utilizing neck compartments and multimodality imaging aids in precise diagnosis and appropriate management.
CHI-SQUARE TESTS: A QUICK GUIDE FOR HEALTH RESEARCHERS
Authors:   Research Officer (Statistics), Department of Epidemiology, The Tamilnadu Dr. MGR Medical University, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India., S. Valarmathi , A.S Hemapriya ,   Master of Public Health, Independent Researcher, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India., S. Sundar Jasmine ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Epidemiology, The Tamilnadu Dr. MGR Medical University, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.
Published: November 2024

Pearsons chi-square (Î§Â²) tests are essential nonparametric statistical tools for analyzing associations among categorical data, making them crucial for research involving non-numeric variables. These tests are widely utilized in various research fields due to their independence from normal distribution assumptions. Chi-square tests are utilized to assess whether there is a significant association between groups, populations, or criteria, and to examine how closely observed data distributions align with expected ones. The three primary types of chi-square tests are: the Goodness-of-Fit test, which checks if the distribution of categorical data in a sample conforms to a predefined distribution the Test of Independence, which investigates whether there is a relationship between categorical variables within a single sample and the Test of Homogeneity, which compares the frequency counts of a categorical variable across multiple populations to see if their distributions are similar.For valid and reliable results, it is crucial to consider factors such as random sampling, adequate cell counts, sufficient sample size, and mutually exclusive variables. In healthcare research, chi-square tests are essential for analyzing risk factors, evaluating AYUSH treatments, assessing nursing interventions, and studying health behavior trends. This review underscores their importance in statistical analysis and evidence-based decision-making.
Leadership strategy as the driver of achieving sustainable business: A case of endek weaving SMEs in Indonesia
Authors: Ermawan Yoga Antara Made , Ayu Putu Widani Sugianingrat Ida , Ayu Oka Martini Ida
Published: November 2024

The sustainable performance of the endek ikat weaving business is essential for the growth of small and medium enterprises and the local economy of Bali (Indonesia). This study intends to examine the direct effects of green entrepreneurial orientation and sustainable leadership on endek weaving SME performance, as well as their indirect effects through the mediation of green digital innovation. This analysis was conducted on endek ikat weaving SMEs in the province of Bali. The population included 1,391 management personnel. Using the proportional random sampling, the study selected 311 respondents. The research hypotheses were tested using a questionnaire distributed among SME management in Bali. Research data were analyzed using the PLS-SEM method and SmartPLS 3 as the analytical tool. The results revealed that sustainable leadership affects green digital innovation (β = 0.483, t-statistic = 5.968). Green entrepreneurial orientation affects sustainable performance and green digital innovation (β = 0.240, 0.445; t-statistic = 2.858, 5.457). Moreover, green digital innovation has the potential to mediate the effect of sustainable leadership and green entrepreneurial orientation toward sustainable performance (β = 0.317, 0.292; t-statistic = 4.184, 4.645). By integrating leadership strategies with a green entrepreneurial approach, as well as innovating through digital media, Balinese endek weaving SMEs can improve their performance to achieve business sustainability.
AcknowledgmentsThis is independent research that has not been funded by any institution. We would like to thank all parties who have provided immaterial support for this investigation.
Impacts of the road on flood inundation in the Tra Khuc–Ve River basin, Vietnam
Authors: Vu Huy Cong , To Thuy Nga , Le Hung
Published: November 2024

Building new roads has the potential to change the natural patterns of flood flow and increase the risk of flooding in adjacent areas. This study investigated the effects of an expressway on the change in flood inundation in the Tra Khuc–Ve River basin in Vietnam. Because of the presence of reservoirs in the study area, various hydraulic, hydrological, and reservoir operational models were employed. Regarding flood flow, scenarios with frequencies of 1, 3, 5, 10, and 20% were used. The comparison of simulated and observed flood trace data shows good agreement. The distribution of floods has changed a lot, as shown in the inundation maps. The new expressway has caused serious flooding in some areas. The water level difference between the two sides of the road can be as high as 2 m. The flooding duration at several locations increased by many hours. In addition, several structural measures are also suggested to lessen the effects of floods, such as dredging rivers, constructing flood drainage canals, and adding more culverts. Lastly, shortcomings in Vietnam's road construction guidelines in flood zones are also mentioned.
A Relationship Assessment Between Environmental Practices, Corporate Value, and CSR in Sustainability Context
Authors: Astuti Tri , Magdalena Maria , Mandagie Yuana Rizky , Irawan Tedhi
Published: November 2024

AbstractThis study examines the influence of environmental performance disclosure within corporate social responsibility on company value. It assesses the impact of green intellectual capital (human, structural, and relational), green innovation (product and process), carbon emission disclosure, and eco-efficiency on Price Book Value (PBV). The sample includes 11 companies from the Sri Kehati Index 2018-2022, which apply Sustainable Responsible Investment (SRI) and ESG principles. Using multiple regression analysis, the findings reveal that green intellectual capital disclosure does not significantly affect company value. However, green innovation positively impacts PBV, suggesting its importance in enhancing corporate valuation. In contrast, carbon emission disclosure and eco-efficiency are found to negatively influence PBV. These results highlight the critical role of green innovation in driving company value while suggesting that certain environmental disclosures may lower valuations. The study provides valuable insights into how environmental practices affect corporate value within the framework of corporate social responsibility and sustainability. Keywords:Green Intellectual Capital, Green Innovation, Carbon Emissions Disclosure, Eco-Efficiency, Company Value
Body fat percentage, mid-upper arm circumference, and menstrual cycle in female students at x high school
Authors: Nuriannisa Farah , Namira Faradila Putri
Published: November 2024

Background: Irregular menstrual cycle in adolescent girls is an indicator of reproductive organ disorders. One of the risk factor for menstrual cycle disorders is nutritional status problem. Nutritional status can be measured using several anthropometric indicators such as body fat percentage and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC).

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze the correlation between body fat percentage and MUAC with the menstrual cycle in girls of X High School Sidoarjo.

Methods: The type of this research was cross-sectional. The sample used 66 students with stratified random sampling technique. Body fat percentage was obtained by using the Mi Body Composition Scale 2, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) was measured by using midline, and the menstrual cycle was obtained by using a menstrual cycle questionnaire for the last 3 months. Data were analyzed with Rank Spearman test.

Results: The results showed that average of body fat percentage was 26.8%, MUAC was 23.8 cm, and menstrual cycle was 35 days. Based on the test of the relationship between body fat percentage and the menstrual cycle, p-value 0.000 (r-value -0.875) were obtained, while MUAC and the menstrual cycle showed p-value 0.000 (r-value -0.916). The higher the body fat percentage, the shorter the menstrual cycle. The smaller the MUAC, the longer the menstrual cycle.

Conclusions: There was a significant relationship between body fat percentage and MUAC with the menstrual cycle within girls in X High School Sidoarjo. Adolescent girls are expected to maintain normal nutritional status in order to maintain the regularity of their menstrual cycle, so as to minimize the risk of infertility in the future.
Understanding Providers’ Attitude Toward AI in India’s Informal Health Care Sector: Survey Study
Authors: Kumar Sumeet , Rayal Snehil , Bommaraju Raghuram , Varasala Navya Pratyusha , Papineni Sirisha , Deo Sarang
Published: November 2024

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major global health concern, causing 1.5 million deaths in 2020. Diagnostic tests for TB are often inaccurate, expensive, and inaccessible, making chest x-rays augmented with artificial intelligence (AI) a promising solution. However, whether providers are willing to adopt AI is not apparent.

Objective

The study seeks to understand the attitude of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) and informal health care providers, who we jointly call AIPs, toward adopting AI for TB diagnosis. We chose to study these providers as they are the first point of contact for a majority of TB patients in India.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of 406 AIPs across the states of Jharkhand (162 participants) and Gujarat (244 participants) in India. We designed the survey questionnaire to assess the AIPs’ confidence in treating presumptive TB patients, their trust in local radiologists’ reading of the chest x-ray images, their beliefs regarding the diagnostic capabilities of AI, and their willingness to adopt AI for TB diagnosis.

Results

We found that 93.7% (270/288) of AIPs believed that AI could improve the accuracy of TB diagnosis, and for those who believed in AI, 71.9% (194/270) were willing to try AI. Among all AIPs, 69.4% (200/288) were willing to try AI. However, we found significant differences in AIPs’ willingness to try AI across the 2 states. Specifically, in Gujarat, a state with better and more accessible health care infrastructure, 73.4% (155/211) were willing to try AI, and in Jharkhand, 58.4% (45/77) were willing to try AI. Moreover, AIPs in Gujarat who showed higher trust in the local radiologists were less likely to try AI (odds ratio [OR] 0.15, 95% CI 0.03‐0.69; P=.02). In contrast, in Jharkhand, those who showed higher trust in the local radiologists were more likely to try AI (OR 2.11, 95% CI 0.9‐4.93; P=.09).

Conclusions

While most AIPs believed in the potential benefits of AI-based TB diagnoses, many did not intend to try AI, indicating that the expected benefits of AI measured in terms of technological superiority may not directly translate to impact on the ground. Improving beliefs among AIPs with poor access to radiology services or those who are less confident of diagnosing TB is likely to result in a greater impact of AI on the ground. Additionally, tailored interventions addressing regional and infrastructural differences may facilitate AI adoption in India’s informal health care sector.
The Doctors, Their Patients, and the Symptom Checker App: Qualitative Interview Study With General Practitioners in Germany
Authors: Preiser Christine , Radionova Natalia , Ög Eylem , Koch Roland , Klemmt Malte , Müller Regina , Ranisch Robert , Joos Stefanie , Rieger Monika A
Published: November 2024

Background

Symptom checkers are designed for laypeople and promise to provide a preliminary diagnosis, a sense of urgency, and a suggested course of action.

Objective

We used the international symptom checker app (SCA) Ada App as an example to answer the following question: How do general practitioners (GPs) experience the SCA in relation to the macro, meso, and micro level of their daily work, and how does this interact with work-related psychosocial resources and demands?

Methods

We conducted 8 semistructured interviews with GPs in Germany between December 2020 and February 2022. We analyzed the data using the integrative basic method, an interpretative-reconstructive method, to identify core themes and modes of thematization.

Results

Although most GPs in this study were open to digitization in health care and their practice, only one was familiar with the SCA. GPs considered the SCA as part of the “unorganized stage” of patients’ searching about their conditions. Some preferred it to popular search engines. They considered it relevant to their work as soon as the SCA would influence patients’ decisions to see a doctor. Some wanted to see the results of the SCA in advance in order to decide on the patient’s next steps. GPs described the diagnostic process as guided by shared decision-making, with the GP taking the lead and the patient deciding. They saw diagnosis as an act of making sense of data, which the SCA would not be able to do, despite the huge amounts of data.

Conclusions

GPs took a techno-pragmatic view of SCA. They operate in a health care system of increasing scarcity. They saw the SCA as a potential work-related resource if it helped them to reduce administrative tasks and unnecessary patient contacts. The SCA was seen as a potential work-related demand if it increased workload, for example, if it increased patients’ anxiety, was too risk-averse, or made patients more insistent on their own opinions.
Effectiveness of the Support From Community Health Workers and Health Care Professionals on the Sustained Use of Wearable Monitoring Devices Among Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Wong Arkers Kwan Ching , Bayuo Jonathan , Su Jing Jing , Wong Frances Kam Yuet , Chow Karen Kit Sum , Wong Bonnie Po , Wong Siu Man , Hui Vivian
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The wearable monitoring device (WMD) is emerging as a promising tool for community-dwelling older adults to monitor personal health, enhance awareness of their activities, and promote healthy behaviors. However, the sustained use of WMDs among this population remains a significant challenge.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to implement an interventional program that promotes and motivates the continued use of WMDs among older adults through a peer and professional support approach. This program will facilitate the integration of WMDs into their daily lives.

METHODS

This feasibility trial examined the following: (1) the usability of the WMD from the users’ perspectives; (2) the feasibility of the Live With Wearable Monitoring Device program; and (3) the effectiveness of the Live With Wearable Monitoring Device program among community-dwelling older adults. The intervention, based on Self-Determination Theory, involved using the Live With Wearable Monitoring Device program over a 3-month period, with ongoing professional and peer support provided by community health workers, aided by a nurse and social workers. This support included 1 home visit and biweekly communication via WhatsApp. Data were collected at baseline and at 1, 3, and 6 months.

RESULTS

A total of 39 participants were enrolled in the intervention group, while 37 participants were in the control group. The recruitment rate was high (76/89, 85%), and the attrition rate was low (8/76, 11%), indicating that the program is feasible for older adults. Participants in the intervention group exhibited higher self-efficacy, lower anxiety levels, and used the smartwatch more frequently, in terms of both days and hours, compared with the control group. A between-group difference was observed in self-efficacy between the intervention and control groups (β=3.31, 95% CI 0.36-6.25, P=.03), with statistically significant higher mean values recorded at all 4 time points.

CONCLUSIONS

It is clear that merely providing a WMD to older adults does not guarantee its usage, particularly for those unfamiliar with how to utilize its health-related functions in their daily routines. This study implemented a theory-based program aimed at enhancing the ongoing use of WMDs among older adults, suggesting that continuous professional and peer support may significantly influence WMD usage.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05269303; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05269303
The Doctors, Their Patients, and the Symptom Checker App: Qualitative Interview Study With General Practitioners in Germany (Preprint)
Authors: Preiser Christine , Radionova Natalia , Ög Eylem , Koch Roland , Klemmt Malte , Müller Regina , Ranisch Robert , Joos Stefanie , Rieger Monika A
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Symptom checkers are designed for laypeople and promise to provide a preliminary diagnosis, a sense of urgency, and a suggested course of action.

OBJECTIVE

We used the international symptom checker app (SCA) Ada App as an example to answer the following question: How do general practitioners (GPs) experience the SCA in relation to the macro, meso, and micro level of their daily work, and how does this interact with work-related psychosocial resources and demands?

METHODS

We conducted 8 semistructured interviews with GPs in Germany between December 2020 and February 2022. We analyzed the data using the integrative basic method, an interpretative-reconstructive method, to identify core themes and modes of thematization.

RESULTS

Although most GPs in this study were open to digitization in health care and their practice, only one was familiar with the SCA. GPs considered the SCA as part of the “unorganized stage” of patients’ searching about their conditions. Some preferred it to popular search engines. They considered it relevant to their work as soon as the SCA would influence patients’ decisions to see a doctor. Some wanted to see the results of the SCA in advance in order to decide on the patient’s next steps. GPs described the diagnostic process as guided by shared decision-making, with the GP taking the lead and the patient deciding. They saw diagnosis as an act of making sense of data, which the SCA would not be able to do, despite the huge amounts of data.

CONCLUSIONS

GPs took a techno-pragmatic view of SCA. They operate in a health care system of increasing scarcity. They saw the SCA as a potential work-related resource if it helped them to reduce administrative tasks and unnecessary patient contacts. The SCA was seen as a potential work-related demand if it increased workload, for example, if it increased patients’ anxiety, was too risk-averse, or made patients more insistent on their own opinions.
Generative AI’s Performance on Emergency Medicine Boards Questions: Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Kajitani Sten , Pastrak Mila , Goodings Anthony , Drewek Austin , Lafree Andrew , Murphy Adrian
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The ever evolving field of medicine has highlighted the potential for ChatGPT as an
assistive platform. However, its use in medical board exam preparation and completion remains divided.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of a custom-modified version of ChatGPT-4,
tailored with emergency medicine board exam preparatory materials (Anki deck), compared to its default
version and previous iteration (3.5). The goal was to assess the accuracy of ChatGPT-4 answering board-
style questions and its suitability as a tool for medical education.

METHODS

A comparative analysis was conducted using a random selection of 598 questions from the
Rosh In-Training Exam Question Bank. The subjects of the study included three versions of ChatGPT:
the Default, a Custom, and ChatGPT-3.5. Accuracy, response length, medical discipline subgroups, and
underlying causes of error were analyzed.

RESULTS

Custom did not demonstrate a significant improvement in accuracy over Default (p>0.05),
though both significantly outperformed ChatGPT-3.5 (p<0.05). Default produced significantly longer
responses than the Custom (p<0.05). Subgroup analysis revealed no significant difference in the
performance across different medical sub-disciplines between the versions (p>0.05). Both ChatGPT-4’s
had similar underlying errors (p>0.05) and had a 99% predicted probability of passing while ChatGPT-
3.5 had an 85%. 

CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that while newer versions of ChatGPT exhibit improved performance
in emergency medicine board exam preparation, specific enhancements do not significantly impact
accuracy. The study highlights the potential of ChatGPT-4 as a tool for medical education, capable of
providing accurate support across a wide range of topics in emergency medicine.