bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Childbirth Experience: A Systematic Review on Prenatal and Intrapartum Supportive Interventions
Authors: Adjie Josef Maria Seno , Priscilla Janice , Safira Fahira Nada
Published: March 2024

Background:

The incidence of challenging delivering experiences varies among societies
and is impacted by various factors. The primary goal of this review was to assess the effect of
supportive interventions pre- and during delivery on the likelihood of a positive childbirth experience.

Methods:

This study reviewed articles related to childbirth experience in international databases,
such as PubMed, Cochrane, and ScienceDirect. A total of 1433 articles were found using the
PRISMA guideline. Review research emphasized the supporting interventions during labor and
women's subjective experience. Quality assessment was conducted using the modified Jadad scale.

Results:

Overall, fifteen studies passed the eligibility criteria. The effective approaches to develop a
favorable understanding of the whole birthing process encompassed the following supportive interventions:
yoga exercise during pregnancy, antenatal hypnosis program, continuous supportive care
during labor, family companion during labor, massage during labor, therapeutic touch program, acupressure
during labor, birth ball exercise during labor, warm showers during the first stage, and
dancing with music during the active phase of labor.

Conclusion:

Various supportive interventions related to childbirth may reduce pain and anxiety,
build confidence, encourage, and serve as valuable psychosocial interventions for childbirth. Becoming
a mother is not a frequent occurrence for all women, contributing to an overall experience
in childbirth. Our study recommends interventions, such as yoga exercises during pregnancy, an antenatal
hypnosis program, continuous supportive care during labor, a family companion during labor,
massage during labor, a therapeutic touch program, acupressure during labor, birth ball exercise
during labor, warm showers during the first stage, and dancing with music during the active
phase of labor.
Formulation of Letrozole-loaded Ethyl Cellulose and Eudragit S100 Nanoparticles by Nanoprecipitation Technique and Determination of Cytotoxic Activity by MTT Assay
Authors: Sailaja A. Krishna , Tabassum Aisha
Published: March 2024

Introduction:

The major goal of this work is to develop letrozole nanoparticles using
the polymer precipitation technique. Formulations were prepared by using Ethyl cellulose and Eudragit
S100 as polymers.

Methods:

By varying drug-polymer ratios, a total of ten formulations were prepared. By altering
the drug concentration to polymer, five formulations were prepared with Ethyl cellulose and five
with Eudragit S100. All ten formulations were evaluated for different characterization and evaluation
parameters such as Entrapment efficiency, Loading capacity and in vitro drug release studies,
particle size, stability (zeta potential), surface morphology, and drug-polymer interaction study.

Result:

In comparison, the NEC 2:1 formulation showed the smallest particle size,high stability,
good entrapment efficiency, and sustained drug release. This formulation was further studied to determine
the anticancer activity in vitro in the MCF-7 Breast cancer cell line by MTT assay. The results
indicated that the prepared formulation exhibited anticancer activity with an IC50 value of
91.26 micromolar.

Conclusion:

Comparatively, Ethyl cellulose was proven to be a better polymer than Eudragit
S100, and the nanoprecipitation technique was considered the most suitable technique for preparing
letrozole nanoparticles.
Dark Tourism Destination Sustainability: Assessing Visitors’ Motivation and Experience towards Disaster Sites in Malaysia
Authors: Saad Mazni , Ishak Nur Fatihah , Abukhalifeh Alaa Nimer , Abu Hassan Norhaslin
Published: March 2024

The primary purpose of this research is to understand how the dark tourism business related to disasters can be sustained by providing evidence from the visiting experiences. Specifically, the objective is to answer two-fold research questions. The opinions of 182 visitors who had experienced visiting the disaster were obtained through a survey questionnaire. Descriptive analysis verified the visitors' dark tourism motivation and emotional experiences for further decisions by responsible authorities and tourism operators to improve the shortcomings of dark tourism sites based on tourists' experience of dark tourism in Malaysia. The results are, however, constrained by the snowballing sampling approach.
Uncovering the Heartbeat of Public Transport in Klang Valley—Is Your Journey Satisfying?
Authors: Sham Rohana , Kah Hing Kavan Tai , Qiao Ruh Chee , Co Maricel , Daud Dazmin
Published: March 2024

This paper explores the essential elements of public transport service quality to enhance commuter preferences in Klang Valley, Malaysia. It specifically investigates reliability, assurance, tangible aspects, and responsiveness as key dimensions impacting customer satisfaction while riding on public transport among the urban residents in the Kuala Lumpur urban area. The study's main aim is to examine relationships among these dimensions and their overall influence on customer satisfaction using quantitative methods, with multiple linear regression analysis and convenience sampling used. The research seeks to capture a representative sample size to provide insights for targeted improvements in the overall public transport system.
Revolutionizing Operational Excellence: Advancing the automotive industry through Lean Principles
Authors: Wahab Siti Norida , Othman Norashida , Hossain Uzir Md Uzir , Yanamandra Ramakrishna
Published: March 2024

This paper aims to discover the effect of lean principles and practices (LPP) on the operational excellence of the Malaysian automotive industry. A quantitative research approach was adopted focusing on 112 designated managerial-level respondents who were experts in the automotive industry. This study provides future researchers with easy access to information on the need for LPP implementation in the automobile industry toward revolutionizing operational excellence. The authors foresee this study to have a significant effect on practitioners, particularly automobile manufacturers and other key stakeholders, about the possible benefits of LPP implementation across the automotive industry, notably in emerging market economies.
Managing Intellectual Capital for SMEs’ Sustainable Development. A Conceptual Proposal
Authors: Mat Zin Sakinah , Engku Hassan Ashari Engku Huda Mursyidah , Ibrahim Baba Uba
Published: March 2024

This article contributes to the body of literature on intellectual capital (IC) and Islamic work ethics (IWE) in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). It aims to investigate the role of socio-economic factors in promoting sustainable development (SD) and value creation. Ibn Khaldun's theory of development is employed to identify the socio-economic factors underlying IC and IWE that play a role in the sustainable development (SD) of SMEs. The findings reveal five socio-economic activities form the foundation of the proposed conceptual framework which is aligned with three fundamental streams in economics and management studies (Ibn Khaldun's development theory, IC, and IWE).
Driving Requirements for Older People in Malaysia: A thematic analysis
Authors: Nordin Nurani , Masuri Mohamad Ghazali , Dahlan Akehsan , Ninik Nurhidayah
Published: March 2024

Driving has been recognised as the primary form of personal transportation across the adult lifespan. This study explores the requirements needed for older people to drive in Malaysia. In-depth interviews were conducted with six participants. The interviews were digitally audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using the six steps of thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged from the data: "Good health," "Driving-specific skills," and "Positive driving style." To conclude, this study conveys a crucial subject matter to policymakers and healthcare professionals in highlighting the requirement older people need to drive safely and thus improve our country's elderly workforce.
A Comparative Study on Land Use Control between selected Conservation Residential Areas (CRA) in the United States and Chiang Kham City
Authors: Raksawin Karuna , Poupuntarugsagul Aungwara
Published: March 2024

This study examines the regulation of residential conservation areas in Salisbury, Marshall, and Peters Townships in Pennsylvania, USA, to derive guidelines for Chiang Kham City. It focuses on analyzing land use activities and building density and form controls. The findings suggest that Chiang Kham City could benefit from detailed regulations on density and architectural styles, highlighting a gap in its current conservation approach. This research underscores the need for Chiang Kham to refine its conservation policies by incorporating lessons from the case studies, aiming to enhance its residential areas while preserving environmental and aesthetic values.
Empowerment of Lifelong Learning Among Late Bloomers Youth in Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Zin Nor Azrul , Sitinjak Charli , Tambi Noordeyana , Kamaruddin Siti Hajar
Published: March 2024

Lifelong learning is challenging for adolescents who have passed their prime age. Even many members of these groups are at risk of dropping out of higher education. This qualitative study employs in-depth interviews with twelve National University of Malaysia participants. The informants are selected via targeted sampling based on predetermined criteria. The study data are analysed thematically using three levels of encoding. The study reveals three significant challenges: workload, emotional pressure, and financial problems. Three action power strategies for youth overcoming obstacles are self-discipline, enhanced self-confidence, and wise conflict resolution.
Assessing Gender Differences in Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) among EFL High School Teachers in Inner Mongolia
Authors: Li Jinyao , Zhao Aruna , Zhang Yu , Cao Yuping
Published: March 2024

This study examines gender differences in Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) among 437 English as a Foreign Language (EFL) high school teachers in Inner Mongolia, China. Quantitative data revealed significant TPACK disparities between male and female teachers, with males exhibiting higher levels. The findings suggest that male teachers demonstrate greater confidence in integrating technology into their English classrooms. To address the TPACK gender gap, it is recommended that female EFL teachers receive specialized training through mentorship programs, online communities, and workshops. Policy changes are urged to create a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive digital environment for effective technology integration.
A Pilot Study on the Opportunities and Challenges Among SME Tourism in the Heritage Food Industry in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Authors: Asby Putriku Nuraishah Khairanni , RAMLI ADILAH , Marzuki Kamarul Mizal , Teuku Afrizal
Published: March 2024

Study based on small and medium entrepreneurs (SME) shows that tourism has increased since 2019. However, the involvement of Tourism SMEs in the food heritage industry still needs to be improved. A qualitative research design was proposed to investigate the matter, and a pilot study was initiated. This paper aims to understand opportunities in the heritage food industry and explore the challenges. Tourism SMEs of food heritage producers are the informants to understand their business. This pilot study was done to help researchers gain first-hand experience with the settings and data collection to strengthen their confidence in executing the research.
Global Education: Computational Thinking’s Role and Relationships Explored
Authors: Cheong Tau Han  , Nurul Ainin Sofia Binti Atan  , Mohd Shafie Rosli  , Joseph Boon Zik Hong  , Harrini Md Noor  , Juan Li
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the correlation between students' Computational Thinking Skills (CTS) and their performance on the Computational Thinking Test (CTT) in the context of 21st-century education, aiming to align the Malaysian education system with global standards. Emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, the study, conducted with Form 3 (15 years old) students at a local public secondary school, reveals significant correlations between CTT outcomes and CTS. Despite limitations, the findings underscore the importance of computational thinking skills in academic success, advocating for educational shifts to cultivate these skills for students' meaningful contributions to Malaysia's global development.
Malay-Minangkabau Vernacular Ornamentation: The Concept of ‘Alam Takambang Jadi Guru’
Authors: Awang Lah Nor Aniswati , Mohamed Khaidzir Khairul Anwar , Abdul Wahab Mohamad Hanif , Couto Nasbahry
Published: March 2024

This preliminary study extensively explores decorative ornamentation in Malay-Minangkabau vernacular architecture, focusing on the LanjongHouse in NegeriSembilan. Built 153 years ago, the house showcases Selemak community craftsmanship with intricately carved motifs. The study identifies fifteen predominantly Minangkabau decorative ornaments that enhance the spiritual ambiance. Emphasizing shared aesthetics and iconography between Minangkabau and Malay cultures, it concludes that there is a harmonious movement of decorative ornamentations in Malay vernacular architecture, aligned with the Minangkabau philosophy of 'Alam Takambang Jadi Guru'. The LanjongHouse, an icon of SukuSelemak, holds broader significance in the Malay world and deserves preservation as a valuable cultural artifact.
Current Status and Influencing Factors of Social Support for Rural Early Childhood Teachers
Authors: Cao Yuping , Lydia Yoke Yean Foong  , Zhang Tingxiu , Li Jinyao , Zhang Chengjun
Published: March 2024

The development of rural preschool education can not be separated from rural early childhood teachers.  Research has indicated that social support is associated with better work performance of teachers. The social support scale was used to study the social support status of rural preschool teachers in Yunnan Province of China. The results show that the social support level of rural early childhood teachers is medium; the level of perceived social support is influenced by factors such as age, total monthly income, and educational level.
Modelling Property Overhang Using Stigmatised Property Dimensions
Authors: Huri Norulelin , Ahmad Baharum Zarita , Ting Kien Hwa , Newell Graeme
Published: March 2024

Property stigma refers to some characteristics, features, social values, or an event relating to land and buildings that can create a negative perception of a building, land, project, or neighbourhood area. Property stigma was identified as a significant factor contributing to the number of overhang residential units in Malaysia. This paper aims to develop a PLS-SEM model using stigmatized property dimensions on Clio2 Residence, an overhang strata residential scheme in Putrajaya. External and internal stigmas are significant factors causing unsold property units in Clio2 Residence.
Intervention Programmes among Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nurhazirah Razali  , Siti Khuzaimah Ahmad Sharoni  , Siti Nor Ismalina Isa  , Septa Katmawanti
Published: March 2024

Aims: To assess the effectiveness of intervention programs to improve functional outcomes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) adherence, daytime sleepiness, and knowledge among obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients. Background: Oxygen desaturations, awakenings, and snoring are symptoms of OSA. Design: Through five databases such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, Web of Science, Medline, and Research Gate. Conclusions: Patients improved their knowledge; CPAP compliance was higher in the intervention group compared to the control group. Regular CPAP utilization can improve functional outcomes and reduce daytime sleepiness. Implication for practice: researchers need to develop educational initiatives appropriate for OSA patients in Malaysia.
Place Attachment at the Ritual Bakar Tongkang for Heritage Tourism in Bagansiapiapi
Authors: Aldy Pedia , Ginting Nurlisa , Siagian Morida , Hadinugroho Dwi Lindarto
Published: March 2024

A concept of place attachment is required to understand the relationship between humans and the tourism environment. The concepts have been integrated into spatial studies with no universal agreement to explain the human-place bond. This systematic literature review focuses on the relationship between place attachment and heritage tourism using the PRISMA principles. This research proposes a conceptualization focus on the ritual approach as a human-place relationship. The place attachment conceptual framework has been influenced by multiple variables such as familiarity, length of engagement, emotional attachment, place character, and rituals. In contrast, heritage tourism's conceptual framework is influenced by curiosity and authenticity.
Assessing endophytic bacteria as a strategy to bioremediate Cd in Cacao crops from Colombia
Authors: Bravo Daniel , Cortés Sandra , Pardo Sergio
Published: March 2024

El presente póster habla acerca de evaluar bacterias tolerantes de cadmio endofíticas (ECdtB) aisladas de cultivos de cacao de Colombia por calorimetría y otras técnicas para inmovilizar el cadmio. Este es uno de los mayores desafíos en la calidad del Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.). Una de las estrategias para abordar tal problema es el uso de endofítico bacterias tolerantes a cadmio (ECdtB) a través de metabolizar la fracción bioactiva de cadmio, es decir, oxalato de cadmio, en compuestos geoestables, es decir, cadmio carbonato
Barriers to COVID-19 Vaccination in a Troop of Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team Marines: Observational Study
Authors: Blazek E Susanne , Bucher Amy
Published: March 2024

Background

In 2019, the World Health Organization declared the reluctance to vaccinate despite the availability of vaccination services as one of the top 10 threats to global health. In early 2021, self-reported reluctance to vaccinate among military personnel might have been considered a significant threat to national security. Having a choice architecture that made COVID-19 vaccination optional rather than required for military personnel could have inadvertently undermined military readiness if vaccination uptake did not reach an acceptable threshold.

Objective

The purpose of this observational study was to examine Marines’ self-reported reasons for planning to decline the COVID-19 vaccine to understand their barriers to vaccination.

Methods

As the vaccination became available to 1 company of Fleet Antiterrorism Security Team (FAST) Marines in early 2021, company command required those planning to decline vaccination to write an essay with up to 5 reasons for their choice. These essays provided the data for this study. Qualitative descriptive analysis with elements from grounded theory was used to thematically categorize FAST Marines’ written reasons for planning to decline the COVID-19 vaccine into a codebook describing 8 key behavioral determinants. Interrater agreement among 2 qualitatively trained researchers was very good (κ=0.81).

Results

A troop of 47 Marines provided 235 reasons why they planned to decline the COVID-19 vaccine. The most frequent reasons were difficulty understanding health information (105/235, 45%), low estimates of risk (33/235, 14%), and fear of physical discomfort (29/235, 12%). Resulting interventions directly targeted Marines’ self-reported reasons by reducing barriers (eg, normalized getting the vaccine), increasing vaccine benefits (eg, improved access to base gyms and recreational facilities), and increasing nonvaccine friction (eg, required in writing 5 reasons for declining the vaccine).

Conclusions

Understanding the barriers military personnel experience toward COVID-19 vaccination remains critical as vaccine acquisition and availability continue to protect military personnel. Insights from subpopulations like FAST Marines can enhance our ability to identify barriers and appropriate intervention techniques to influence COVID-19 vaccination behaviors.
Examining Parent Mood, Feeding Context, and Feeding Goals as Predictors of Feeding Practices Used by Parents of Preschool Children With Avid Eating Behavior: Protocol for an Ecological Momentary Assessment Study
Authors: Edwards Katie , Croker Helen , Farrow Claire , Haycraft Emma , Herle Moritz , Llewellyn Clare , Pickard Abigail , Blissett Jacqueline
Published: March 2024

Background

An avid eating behavior profile is characterized by a greater interest in food and a tendency to overeat in response to negative emotions. Parents use specific strategies to manage feeding interactions with children with avid eating behavior. While momentary and contextual factors, such as parental mood, have been found to influence parental feeding practices, there is a lack of research examining parents’ daily experiences of feeding children with avid eating behavior. Examining this is important because parental feeding practices are key levers in tailored interventions to support children’s healthy eating behavior.

Objective

We aim to describe the ecological momentary assessment methods and procedures used in the APPETItE (Appetite in Preschoolers: Producing Evidence for Tailoring Interventions Effectively) project, which aims to examine how variation in parental mood, feeding goals, and the context of eating occasions affect the parental feeding practices used to manage feeding interactions with children with an avid eating behavior profile.

Methods

Participants are primary caregivers from the APPETItE cohort who have a preschool-age child (aged 3-5 years) with an avid eating behavior profile. Caregivers complete a 10-day ecological momentary assessment period using signal- and event-contingent surveys to examine (1) mood and stress, (2) parental feeding goals, and (3) contextual factors as predictors of parental feeding practices.

Results

Recruitment and data collection began in October 2023 and is expected to be completed by spring 2024. The data have a 3-level structure: repeated measurements (level 1) nested within days (level 2) nested within an individual (level 3). Thus, lag-dependent models will be conducted to test the main hypotheses.

Conclusions

The findings from this study will provide an understanding of caregivers’ daily experiences of feeding preschool children with avid eating behavior, who are at greater risk for the development of obesity. Understanding the predictors of feeding practices at the moment they occur, and across various contexts, will inform the development of tailored resources to support caregivers in managing children’s avid eating behavior.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/55193
Thyroid Hyperplasia and Neoplasm Adverse Events Associated With Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists in the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System: Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Makunts Tigran , Joulfayan Haroutyun , Abagyan Ruben
Published: March 2024

Background

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists (RAs) are one of the most commonly used drugs for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clinical guidelines recommend GLP-1 RAs as an adjunct to diabetes therapy in patients with chronic kidney disease, presence or risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, and obesity. The weight loss observed in clinical trials has been explored further in healthy individuals, putting GLP-1 RAs on track to be the next weight loss treatment.

Objective

Although the adverse event profile is relatively safe, most GLP-1 RAs come with a labeled boxed warning for the risk of thyroid cancers, based on animal models and some postmarketing case reports in humans. Considering the increasing popularity of this drug class and its expansion into a new popular indication, a further review of the most recent postmarketing safety data was warranted to quantify thyroid hyperplasia and neoplasm instances.

Methods

GLP-1 RA patient reports from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System database were analyzed using reporting odds ratios and 95% CIs.

Results

In this study, we analyzed over 18 million reports from the US FDA Adverse Event Reporting System and provided evidence of significantly increased propensity for thyroid hyperplasias and neoplasms in patients taking GLP-1 RA monotherapy when compared to patients taking sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor monotherapy.

Conclusions

GLP-1 RAs, regardless of indication, are associated with an over 10-fold increase in thyroid neoplasm and hyperplasia adverse event reporting when compared to SGLT-2 inhibitors.
Arabic Web-Based Information on Oral Lichen Planus: Content Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: AlMeshrafi Azzam , AlHamad Arwa F , AlKuraidees Hamoud , AlNasser Lubna A
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

The use of web-based health information (WBHI) is on the rise, serving as a valuable tool for educating the public about health concerns and enhancing treatment adherence. Consequently, evaluating the availability and quality of context-specific WBHI is crucial to tackle disparities in health literacy and advance population health outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore and assess the quality of the WBHI available and accessible to the public on oral lichen planus (OLP) in Arabic.

METHODS

The Arabic translation of the term OLP and its derivatives were searched in three general search platforms, and each platform’s first few hundred results were reviewed for inclusion. We excluded content related to cutaneous LP, content not readily accessible to the public (eg, requiring subscription fees or directed to health care providers), and content not created by health care providers or organizations (ie, community forums, blogs, and social media). We assessed the quality of the Arabic WBHI with three standardized and validated tools: DISCERN, Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) benchmarks, and Health On the Net (HON).

RESULTS

Of the 911 resources of WBHI reviewed for eligibility, 49 were included in this study. Most WBHI resources were provided by commercial affiliations (n=28, 57.1%), with the remainder from academic or not-for-profit affiliations. WBHI were often presented with visual aids (ie, images; n=33, 67.4%). DISCERN scores were highest for WBHI resources that explicitly stated their aim, while the lowest scores were for providing the effect of OLP (or OLP treatment) on the quality of life. One-quarter of the resources (n=11, 22.4%) met all 4 JAMA benchmarks, indicating the high quality of the WBHI, while the remainder of the WBHI failed to meet one or more of the JAMA benchmarks. HON scores showed that one-third of WBHI sources had scores above 75%, indicating higher reliability and credibility of the WBHI source, while one-fifth of the sources scored below 50%. Only 1 in 7 WBHI resources scored simultaneously high on all three quality instruments. Generally, WBHI from academic affiliations had higher quality scores than content provided by commercial affiliations.

CONCLUSIONS

There are considerable variations in the quality of WBHI on OLP in Arabic. Most WBHI resources were deemed to be of moderate quality at best. Providers of WBHI could benefit from increasing collaboration between commercial and academic institutions in creating WBHI and integrating guidance from international quality assessment tools to improve the quality and, hopefully, the utility of these valuable WBHI resources.
Effectiveness of WeChat plus scene-based graphics health education for rehabilitation after open elbow arthrolysis: A historical control study (Preprint)
Authors: Fang Danling , Wang Yin , Yu Shiyang , Wang Wei , Lu Pingchen , Dong Fanghui
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Elbow stiffness is a common disease that can seriously limit daily activities. Open elbow arthrolysis is the most effective treatment, but long-term postoperative rehabilitation is necessary. Traditional health education is unlikely to improve patient compliance and outcomes. Convenient and interesting tools and methods, such as WeChat and scene-based graphics, should be used to enhance elbow recovery.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of WeChat plus Scene-based graphics health education after open elbow arthrolysis.

METHODS

This historical control study included patients who were 18 years or older, who underwent open elbow arthrolysis, who had normal communication skills and who were capable of using WeChat. Those who were eligible to participate were divided into two groups based on their admission time: the control group (56 patients enrolled from January to June 2021) and the WeChat group (56 patients enrolled from July to December 2021). The control group received traditional health education, while the WeChat group received WeChat plus scene-based graphics health education. Information was presented as comics and divided into 4 parts, which were then shared through a WeChat public account. The patients received the information and daily lessons through the WeChat public account during hospitalization. Patients received online instruction through a WeChat group after discharge until 12 weeks post operation. All outcome data were collected at 1 week, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks post operation. The primary outcome was elbow range of motion, while the secondary outcomes included elbow function, quality of life, and incidence of complications.

RESULTS

At 12 weeks post surgery, the WeChat group exhibited a significantly greater elbow range of motion than the control group (all P<.001). Moreover, the WeChat group had significantly better elbow function and quality of life (all P<.001). At 6 weeks post surgery, there were two elbow range of motion items that were significantly different between the WeChat group and the control group (forearm pronation: P=.014; forearm supination: P=.042). The incidence of complications was similar between the two groups (heterotopic ossification: P=.799; new onset or exacerbation of ulnar nerve symptoms: WeChat: P=1.00; repeat elbow stiffness: P=0.558).

CONCLUSIONS

WeChat plus scene-based graphics health education has a marked effect on elbow range of motion, elbow function, and quality of life, as well as preventing complications.

CLINICALTRIAL

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000036004; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.
Html?proj=59168.
Gender Inequalities of Health and Quality of Life in Informal Caregivers in Spain: Protocol for the Longitudinal and Multicenter CUIDAR-SE Study (Preprint)
Authors: Garcia-Calvente María del Mar , Mora Diana Juanita , Del Río-Lozano María
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

The aging population and increased disability prevalence in Spain have heightened the demand for long-term care. Informal caregiving, primarily performed by women, plays a crucial role in this scenario. This protocol outlines the CUIDAR-SE study, focusing on the gender-specific impact of informal caregiving on health and quality of life among caregivers in Andalusia and the Basque Country from 2013 to 2024.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to analyze the gender differences in health and quality of life indicators of informal caregivers residing in 2 Spanish autonomous communities (Granada, Andalusia, and Gipuzkoa; Basque Country) and their evolution over time, in relation to the characteristics of caregivers, the caregiving situation, and support received.

METHODS

The CUIDAR-SE study uses a longitudinal, multicenter design across 3 phases, tracking health and quality of life indicators among informal caregivers. Using a questionnaire adapted to the Spanish context that uses validated scales and multilevel analysis, the research captures changes in caregivers’ experiences amid societal crises, notably the 2008 economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. A multistage randomized cluster sampling technique is used to minimize study design effects.

RESULTS

Funding for the CUIDAR-SE study was in 3 phases starting in January 2013, 2017, and 2021, spanning a 10-year period. Data collection commenced in 2013 and continued annually, except for 2016 and 2020 due to financial and pandemic-related challenges. As of March 2024, a total of 1294 participants have been enrolled, with data collection ongoing for 2023. Initial data analysis focused on gender disparities in caregiver health, quality of life, burden, perceived needs, and received support, with results from phase I published. Currently, analysis is ongoing for phases II and III, as well as longitudinal analysis across all phases.

CONCLUSIONS

This protocol aims to provide comprehensive insights into caregiving dynamics and caregivers’ experiences over time, as well as understand the role of caregiving on gender inequality in health, considering regional variations. Despite limitations in participant recruitment, focusing on registered caregivers, the study offers a detailed exploration of the health impacts of caregiving in Spain. The incorporation of a gender perspective and the examination of diverse contextual factors enrich the study’s depth, contributing significantly to the discourse on caregiving health complexities in Spain.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/58440
Obtaining the Most Accurate, Explainable Model for Predicting Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Triangulation of Multiple Linear Regression and Machine Learning Methods (Preprint)
Authors: Kamis Arnold , Gadia Nidhi , Luo Zilin , Ng Shu Xin , Thumbar Mansi
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Lung disease is a severe problem in the United States. Despite the decreasing rates of cigarette smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) continues to be a health burden in the United States. In this paper, we focus on COPD in the United States from 2016 to 2019.

OBJECTIVE

We gathered a diverse set of non–personally identifiable information from public data sources to better understand and predict COPD rates at the core-based statistical area (CBSA) level in the United States. Our objective was to compare linear models with machine learning models to obtain the most accurate and interpretable model of COPD.

METHODS

We integrated non–personally identifiable information from multiple Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sources and used them to analyze COPD with different types of methods. We included cigarette smoking, a well-known contributing factor, and race/ethnicity because health disparities among different races and ethnicities in the United States are also well known. The models also included the air quality index, education, employment, and economic variables. We fitted models with both multiple linear regression and machine learning methods.

RESULTS

The most accurate multiple linear regression model has variance explained of 81.1%, mean absolute error of 0.591, and symmetric mean absolute percentage error of 9.666. The most accurate machine learning model has variance explained of 85.7%, mean absolute error of 0.456, and symmetric mean absolute percentage error of 6.956. Overall, cigarette smoking and household income are the strongest predictor variables. Moderately strong predictors include education level and unemployment level, as well as American Indian or Alaska Native, Black, and Hispanic population percentages, all measured at the CBSA level.

CONCLUSIONS

This research highlights the importance of using diverse data sources as well as multiple methods to understand and predict COPD. The most accurate model was a gradient boosted tree, which captured nonlinearities in a model whose accuracy is superior to the best multiple linear regression. Our interpretable models suggest ways that individual predictor variables can be used in tailored interventions aimed at decreasing COPD rates in specific demographic and ethnographic communities. Gaps in understanding the health impacts of poor air quality, particularly in relation to climate change, suggest a need for further research to design interventions and improve public health.
Avatar Intervention for Cannabis Use disorder in Individuals with Severe Mental Disorders: Results from a one-year pilot clinical trial (Preprint)
Authors: Giguere Sabrina , Beaudoin Mélissa , Dellazizzo Laura , Phraxayavong Kingsada , Potvin Stéphane , Dumais Alexandre
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

The dual diagnosis of cannabis use disorder (CUD) and severe mental disorder (SMD) results in clinically complex individuals. Cannabis use is known to have negative consequences on psychiatric symptoms, medication compliance, and disease prognosis. Moreover, the effectiveness of currently available psychotherapeutic treatments is limited in this population. In this context, our research team developed avatar intervention, an approach using virtual reality as a therapeutic tool to treat CUD in individuals with SMD.

OBJECTIVE

This pilot clinical trial aimed to evaluate until 1 year follow-up efficacy of avatar intervention for CUD on 32 participants with a dual diagnosis of SMD and CUD.

METHODS

Over the course of the 8 therapy sessions, participants were given the opportunity to enter a dialogue with an avatar representing a person with a significant role in their consumption, who was animated in real time by a therapist. The primary outcomes were the quantity of cannabis consumed and the frequency of use. Secondary outcomes included severity of problematic cannabis use, motivation for change, protective strategies for cannabis use, consequences of cannabis use, psychiatric symptoms, and quality of life. In addition to the clinical evaluations conducted prior to and after the intervention, follow-up visits occurred 3, 6 and 12 months after the last session.

RESULTS

Significant reductions were observed in the quantity of cannabis consumed, and these were maintained until the 12-month follow-up visit (d =0.804, p<0.001; confirmed by urine quantification). Frequency of cannabis use showed a small significant reduction at the 3-month follow-up (d=0.384, p=0.031). Moreover, improvements were observed for severity of CUD, cannabis related negative consequences, motivation to change cannabis use and in the strategies employed to mitigate harms related to cannabis use. Finally, moderate benefits were observed for quality of life and psychiatric symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, this unique intervention shows promising results that seem to be maintained up to 12 months after the end of the intervention. With the aim of overcoming the methodological limitations of a pilot study, a single-blind randomized controlled trial is currently underway to compare the avatar intervention for CUD with a conventional addiction intervention.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03585127
Definitions and Characteristics of Patient Digital Twins Being Developed for Clinical Use: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Drummond David , Gonsard Apolline
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

The concept of digital twins, widely adopted in industry, is entering health care. However, there is a lack of consensus on what constitutes the digital twin of a patient.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this scoping review was to analyze definitions and characteristics of patient digital twins being developed for clinical use, as reported in the scientific literature.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, IEEE, and Google Scholar for studies claiming digital twin development or evaluation until August 2023. Data on definitions, characteristics, and development phase were extracted. Unsupervised classification of claimed digital twins was performed.

RESULTS

We identified 86 papers representing 80 unique claimed digital twins, with 98% (78/80) in preclinical phases. Among the 55 papers defining “digital twin,” 76% (42/55) described a digital replica, 42% (23/55) mentioned real-time updates, 24% (13/55) emphasized patient specificity, and 15% (8/55) included 2-way communication. Among claimed digital twins, 60% (48/80) represented specific organs (primarily heart: 15/48, 31%; bones or joints: 10/48, 21%; lung: 6/48, 12%; and arteries: 5/48, 10%); 14% (11/80) embodied biological systems such as the immune system; and 26% (21/80) corresponded to other products (prediction models, etc). The patient data used to develop and run the claimed digital twins encompassed medical imaging examinations (35/80, 44% of publications), clinical notes (15/80, 19% of publications), laboratory test results (13/80, 16% of publications), wearable device data (12/80, 15% of publications), and other modalities (32/80, 40% of publications). Regarding data flow between patients and their virtual counterparts, 16% (13/80) claimed that digital twins involved no flow from patient to digital twin, 73% (58/80) used 1-way flow from patient to digital twin, and 11% (9/80) enabled 2-way data flow between patient and digital twin. Based on these characteristics, unsupervised classification revealed 3 clusters: simulation patient digital twins in 54% (43/80) of publications, monitoring patient digital twins in 28% (22/80) of publications, and research-oriented models unlinked to specific patients in 19% (15/80) of publications. Simulation patient digital twins used computational modeling for personalized predictions and therapy evaluations, mostly for one-time assessments, and monitoring digital twins harnessed aggregated patient data for continuous risk or outcome forecasting and care optimization.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose defining a patient digital twin as “a viewable digital replica of a patient, organ, or biological system that contains multidimensional, patient-specific information and informs decisions” and to distinguish simulation and monitoring digital twins. These proposed definitions and subtypes offer a framework to guide research into realizing the potential of these personalized, integrative technologies to advance clinical care.
Ideological and Political Education for Rural Women in the Context of Rural Revitalization Optimization Path Study
Authors: Bai Jiale
Published: March 2024

Comprehensively promoting the strategy of revitalizing the countryside is a major decision-making deployment that has been re-emphasized by the State, and it is the overall focus of the work of the "three rural areas" in the new era. The key to promoting the strategy of rural revitalization and upgrading the modernization level of agriculture and rural areas lies in the further development of ideological and political education in rural areas, especially for rural women, whose numbers should not be neglected. The right remedies should be prescribed to address such problems as their being bound by backward cultural concepts, a single approach to education, the lack of an education management system, and a weak sense of self-awareness, so as to equip them with the latest theories and improve their literacy and working capacity, thereby promoting the full implementation of the strategy for the revitalization of the countryside.
Импортозамещение: система зажима VL 100CR
Authors: Сорокин А.В.
Published: March 2024

ООО ПКФ «СтанкоАртель» производит и поставляет запасные
части и узлы для металлообрабатывающих станков различных
типов: токарно-винторезные
станки, станки для обработки
труб и деталей к ним (трубонарезные), токарно-карусельные
обрабатывающие центры, а также колесотокарные и токарно-накатные
станки и оборудование для нужд РЖД.
Исследование модульного расточного инструмента
Authors: Копылов В.В. , Есаков Н.С. , Шуляк Я.И.
Published: March 2024

Проведено экспериментальное сравнение
жесткости технологических систем, включающих
расточные МИН, состоящих из нескольких
модулей. Определено, что для установки модулей
сборного расточного инструмента целесообразно
использовать конструкцию соединения
с радиальными смещенными крепежными
винтами.
Sign Language Detection Using Deep Learning
Authors: Kirthiga Mrs. N. , Krishna Miriyala Vamsi , Vadlamudi Venkata Naveen , Kiran Makani Venkata Sai , Hussain Dudekula
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Millions of citizens worldwide suffer from deaf and hard of hearing (DHH), a communication impairment that makes speaking difficult and necessitates the use of sign language. This communication gap frequently hampers access to education and opportunities for employment. Although AI-driven technologies have been studied to tackle this problem, no research has specifically looked into the intelligent and automatic translation of American sign gestures to text in low-resource languages (LRL), such as Nigerian languages. We suggest a unique end-to-end system for translating the American Sign Language, or ASL, Our framework uses the "no language left behind" translation model and the Transformer-based model for ASL-to-Text generation. converting the text generated from LRL to English. We assessed the ASL-to-Text system's performance. The people who participated were able to understand the translated text and expressed satisfaction with both the Text-to-LRL and ASL-toText models, according to a qualitative analysis of the framework. Our suggested framework shows how AI-driven technologies can promote inclusivity in sociocultural interactions and education, particularly for individuals with DHH living in low-resource environments. To bridge the gap between the non-sign language and hearing/speech impaired communities, sign language recognition is crucial. Sentence detection is more useful in real-world situations than isolated recognition of words, yet it is also more difficult since isolated signs need to be accurately identified and continuous, high-quality sign data with distinct features needs to be collected. Here, we suggest a wearable system for understanding sign language using a convolutional neural network (CNN) that combines inertial measurement units attached to the body with flexible strain sensors to detect hand postures and movement trajectories. A total of 48 frequently used ASL sign language terms were gathered and utilized to train the CNN model. This resulted in an isolated sign language word recognition accuracy of 95.85%.
Parkinson’s Disease Detection
Authors: Sonawane Ms. Priti. V. , Kamble Ms. Pooja B. , Lohar Ms. Prajakta P. , Shete Ms. Sakshi D. , Shinde Ms. Sanika S.
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Parkinson’s Disease is a disorder that affects the nervous system. Parkinson’s disease does not directly cause people to die but can make some people more vulnerable to serious and life-threatening infections. This research addresses the limitations of traditional clinical diagnosis by harnessing the potential of advanced data analysis techniques and machine learning algorithms. The project’s primary objectives include dataset compilation, feature extraction, model development, multimodal fusion, model validation, and considerations for clinical applicability. The dataset will encompass a diverse range of participants diagnosed with PD as well as healthy controls, ensuring the representation of various demographic and clinical factors. By extracting distinctive features from voice recordings, handwriting dynamics, and gait patterns, the project aims to capture unique biomarkers associated with PD. Machine learning models, tailored for each modality, will be developed to classify individuals as PD-positive or PD-negative