bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the Efficacy of Active Hexose Correlated Compound as an Adjuvant in Reducing Recurrence After Condyloma Cauterization
Authors: Atlıhan Ufuk , Yavuz Onur , Ata Can , Avsar Huseyin Aytug , Bildaci Tevfik Berk , Erkilinc Selcuk
Published: September 2024

Introduction
One of the most prevalent sexually transmittedxillnesses is considered to be Humanipapillomavirus (HPV). HPV is responsible for genital condyloma lesions. A durable and effective systemic treatment regimen has not been established for HPV-related infections. In the present study, our purpose was to analyse by evaluating the role of activexhexose correlatedxcompound (AHCC) in preventing relapse in patients who underwent cauterization for condyloma accuminata.
Materials and Methods
A total of 244 individuals who were hospitalized to our hospital in the interval from January 2019 to June 2022, were diagnosed as having condyloma acuminata, and underwent condyloma cauterization were evaluated retrospectively In this study; 133 individuals who met the criteria were taken in the investigation. In our study, patients who received AHCC were scheduled for follow-up examinations at regular intervals. For a year, they were scheduled for follow-up appointments every three months. Patients who did and did not use AHCC were divided into two groups and analyzed.
Results
The age average of AHCC non-users was significantly greater than AHCC users (p < 0.01). The number of condylomas and the maximum condyloma diameter of AHCC users before treatment were found to be significantly higher than in AHCC non-users (p = 0.006 and p = 0.004, respectively). In participants with recurrence, the number of condylomas and the condyloma diameter in AHCC users were significantlyilower than in AHCC non-users (p = 0.019 and p = 0.042, respectively).
Conclusion
Although the usage of AHCC is not expected to help prevent recurrence after cauterization of condylomata acuminate in all patients, physicians may consider AHCC as a nutritional supplement and supportive therapy in the absence of other systemic treatments. Consequently, the duration of AHCC support necessary to optimize the effect of AHCC use on relapse prevention requires further evaluation on the basis of both target IFN-βilevels and HPV infectionistatus.
Adverse Childhood Experience, Self-Compassion and Suicidal Ideation among Young Adults in Bangladesh: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mirdha Ginia , Ferdowshi Nafiza , Mirdha Shantana
Published: September 2024

The study aimed to investigate the relationship of childhood adverse experience, self-compassion and suicidal ideation among young adults in Bangladesh.
A cross sectional study was conducted on 120 young adults from two public universities in Dhaka city. Among them, 61 were male and 59 were female. Participants were selected by convenient sampling technique and data were collected by using Adapted Bangla Version of Comprehensive Child Maltreatment Scale (CCMS) for Adults (Ferdous, Roy, & Islam, 2020), Bangla Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSS) (Uddin et al., 2013), and Adapted Bangla Version of Self-Compassion Scale (Habib & Naher, 2020). The obtained data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, t-test and correlation.
The findings reveal that all forms of childhood maltreatment: psychological maltreatment, physical abuse, witnessing family violence, neglect, and sexual abuse were significantly negatively correlated with self-compassion. Correlation for total maltreatment score and SCS was also significant (r = -.499, p < .01). Findings also reveal that each of the five subscales were significantly positively correlated with suicidal ideation. Moreover, there were significant positive inter-correlations among the five subscales of CCMS. The findings also reveal that there are significance gender differences of all forms of childhood maltreatment, self-compassion and suicidal ideation among young adults. The results were interpreted based on prior research.
Findings of the research may help gaining insight about the harmful impact of maltreatment to develop appropriate preventive and intervention strategies.
An ensemble deep learning model for OCT Image Detection and Classification
Authors: Wali Asad , Suhail Zobia , Naz Sidra , Younas Iram
Published: September 2024

Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a vital imaging technique that provides detailed images of the retina, playing a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring various retinal conditions like diabetic macular edema (DME), choroidal neovascularization (CNV), and DRUSEN. However, there is a need to improve early detection and treatment of these common eye diseases. While deep learning methods have demonstrated superior accuracy in analyzing OCT images especially concerning data volume and computational efficiency requires further exploration. This paper presents a comprehensive approach for classifying Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) images using model ensemble. An ensemble model refers to the merging or blending of separate deep learning models, aiming to utilize their unique strengths and abilities to construct a more resilient and effective solution. The methodology involves the use of CNN architecture along with DenseNet121 and InceptionV3 models to enhance the accuracy of classifying retinal images into four categories: CNV, DME, DRUSEN, and NORMAL. By leveraging the strengths of these models, the proposed ensemble method achieves superior performance. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the ensemble approach, with an improvement in classification accuracy compared to individual models. The proposed architecture achieved the accuracy of 97.5%. The performance comparison with existing state-of-the-art techniques demonstrates that the proposed algorithm requires significantly less time with limited dataset. Our proposed method shows the performance of OCT classification in the case of a limited dataset.
Twelve months at 1.5 °C signals earlier than expected breach of Paris Agreement threshold
Authors: Cannon Alex J.
Published: September 2024

June 2024 was the twelfth month in a row with global mean surface temperatures reaching 1.5 °C above pre-industrial conditions. Does this imply failure to meet the Paris Agreement goal of limiting long-term warming to 1.5 °C? Evidence from climate model simulations, conditional on reaching this threshold for 12 consecutive months, regardless of recent El Niño conditions, suggests that the Paris Agreement target may be crossed earlier than expected.
Unraveling complexity: Singular value decomposition in complex experimental data analysis
Authors: Stein Judith F. , Frydman Aviad , Berkovits Richard
Published: September 2024

Analyzing complex experimental data with multiple parameters is challenging. We propose using Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) as an effective solution. This method, demonstrated through real experimental data analysis, surpasses conventional approaches in understanding complex physics data. Singular values and vectors distinguish and highlight various physical mechanisms and scales, revealing previously challenging elements. SVD emerges as a powerful tool for navigating complex experimental landscapes, showing promise for diverse experimental measurements.
Report on CITES Implementation and Wildlife Conservation Training/Seminar
Authors: Chikanya Gideon , Youmiao Zheng
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the seminar and training experience in China focused on wildlife conservation, management, and CITES implementation in Africa. In a bid to enhance multilateral aid for wildlife conservation, the Chinese Government extended its support to Zambia, a developing country, through a knowledge exchange initiative. This program is part of China’s broader strategy to invite African nations for capacity-building sessions, aiming to improve wildlife conservation strategies across the continent. In 2019, Zambia was one of seven African countries selected to participate in a three-week seminar on CITES implementation and wildlife conservation, held in Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province. Sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China, the seminar provided valuable insights and practical knowledge that are critical for advancing wildlife conservation efforts in Zambia and other participating nations. This study highlights the importance of such international collaborations and their impact on enhancing conservation practices in developing countries.
Operations Management in the Corporate Environment of Guyana: The Culture Fusion
Authors: Lam Vivian
Published: September 2024

This paper examines the role of human resource culture in operations management and its direct impact on returns on investments, efficiency, and effectiveness in Guyana’s corporate environment. Corporate culture, defined as the shared values and norms within an organization, influences employee attitudes and behaviors, while profitability involves offering the right product or service at the right place and time for the right price. The literature confirms that these concepts are interlinked and beneficial for many organizations. The review found that exploiting human resource culture can significantly enhance growth and expansion potential. In Guyana, profitability and organizational success have not reached their full potential. In such an environment, human resource management is crucial, and culture serves as a vital operations management tool. Human Resource Culture encompasses shared values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors, defining an organization operation and how employees interact. This includes mission, goals, work environment, communication styles, leadership practices, and employee expectations. A business environment includes internal factors like employees, culture, and management, and external factors such as customers, suppliers and competitors. The corporate environment refers to a corporation's internal culture, structure, and operations. Organizational culture influences decision-making, activity prioritization, and accountability, aligning with the business vision and mission. This study examines the direct relationship between corporate culture and business growth and performance, and the impact of culture fusion on employee performance and satisfaction in Guyana.
Enterprise Competitiveness Calculation Modelling
Authors: Kakule Katembo Denis , Kumar Betchoo Nirmal
Published: September 2024

The competitiveness of a company is a crucial element for its survival. However, this competitiveness has not always been sufficiently researched. Many authors focus on the competitiveness of sectors, territories, and nations, while neglecting that of the company, which is the primary economic agent driving development. This article proposes a simple formula to calculate a company's competitiveness within an industry. This formula, constructed based on current economic literature on company competitiveness, will facilitate decision-making in professional and entrepreneurial settings.
Mediação escolar: Instrumento de efetivação dos direitos da personalidade das vítimas do bullying perpetrado no espaço social das escolas
Authors: Lago Andrea , Decurcio Gabriela
Published: September 2024

A escola é um espaço social composto por crianças, adolescentes, professores, gestores e colaboradores, portanto, está sujeito a relações e interações humanas, e ao surgimento de conflitos e violência. Nos dias atuais, dentre os diversos tipos de violência escolar, destacam-se o bullying e o cyberbullying. Esse primeiro, também denominado de intimidação sistemática, consiste em atos de violência física e psicológica, de forma intencional e repetida, praticado, sem motivação aparente, com o objetivo de intimidar, humilhar, agredir, causar dor, desequilíbrio de poder e angústias. O segundo dá-se de maneira análoga ao primeiro, contudo, é praticado por meio virtual. O grande problema é que estes fenômenos têm feito vítimas e causado problemas de aprendizagem, distúrbios psicológicos ou psiquiátricos como estresses e ansiedade, restando claro que o livre desenvolvimento da personalidade destes atores sociais da escola tem sido aviltado. Dessa forma, o presente estudo tem por objetivo analisar o fenômeno social do bullying, e seu subtipo (cyberbullying), os danos provenientes deste, em especial àqueles que atentem contra os direitos da personalidade de suas vítimas, como o direito à integridade física e psíquica. Já a problemática reside em averiguar se a mediação no contexto escolar seria um mecanismo adequado de enfrentamento ao bullying e se possui o condão de restabelecer os direitos da personalidade atentados. Para tanto, o estudo se assentou numa pesquisa desenvolvida pelo método de abordagem hipotético-dedutivo, de procedimento histórico e comparativo, e método jurídico interpretativo, exegético e crítico, cuja técnica do estudo se fundamentará em pesquisa bibliográfica nacional e estrangeria.
Direitos humanos e trabalho decente: Desafios para atingir o desenvolvimento sustentável
Authors: Trevisam Elisaide , De Camargo Maria Paula Zanchet
Published: September 2024

O objetivo da presente pesquisa é analisar se o trabalho decente, como direito humano fundamental, é efetivo no Brasil para o cumprimento do desenvolvimento sustentável. Pretende-se observar o desenvolvimento como um direito humano, passando-se a tratar do trabalho decente e, por fim, compreender a realidade brasileira na busca do desenvolvimento sustentável.  Para atingir os fins desejados, a metodologia utilizada será por meio da abordagem qualitativa com a aplicação do método dedutivo, realizando-se a técnica de pesquisa bibliográfica e documental. Conclui-se que diante de inúmeras irregularidades laborais no Brasil, torna-se complexa a efetivação do trabalho decente como direito fundamental e em consequência, a concretização do desenvolvimento sustentável no território nacional.
Application of microbial desalination cell technology to treat industrial wastewater
Authors: Sharma Abhimanyu , Singh Karan , Singh HarKamal , Verma Monika , Thakur Tamanna , Kaur Mandeep , Dharmendra
Published: September 2024

The high salinity and complicated chemical makeup of industrial effluent create a serious threat to the environment. Traditional treatment procedures are not always successful in eradicating water impurities, whereas desalination operations can be both expensive and requires a lot of energy usage. To deal with that, microbial desalination cell (MDC) technology has emerged as a viable option in recent years for the purification of industrial wastewater. The purpose of this chapter is to introduce readers to MDCs and their potential uses in industrial wastewater treatment by discussing their basic concepts, essential parts, performance evaluation, and potential in the future. In addition, the challenges and prospective strategies for enhancing MDC effectiveness and commercial viability are discussed.
Recent developments in the production of proton transfer membranes employed in microbial fuel cells
Authors: Chauke Nyiko Maurice , Mketo Nomvano
Published: September 2024

This chapter discusses the utilization of proton transfer membranes (PTMs) in microbial fuel cells (MFCs) for wastewater treatment and hydrogen generation. Conventional wastewater treatment methods often consume significant energy and generate harmful by-products, but integrated MFCs offer a promising alternative. In MFCs, microorganisms facilitate oxidation and reduction reactions, hydrogen generation, and converting the chemical energy in wastewater into direct electric current. This allows wastewater to be used as a valuable resource for bioelectricity, biofuels, hydrogen, and other valuable by-products. The selection of appropriate microorganisms, electrode materials, designs, PTMs, and process parameters significantly influences the performance of MFCs. Optimal pH and temperature conditions are crucial for promoting bacterial growth and overall efficiency. However, an important challenge in MFCs is the effective separation process. Various types of PTMs, including ion exchange, composite, porous, and ceramic membranes, have been explored. Despite advancements, issues such as high membrane costs, insufficient ion or proton separation, molecule diffusion, substrate crossover, and biofouling still pose challenges. Nevertheless, MFCs offer a promising solution for wastewater treatment by combining efficient treatment processes with the generation of valuable resources. To successfully implement and commercialize MFCs, it is crucial to address challenges related to membrane separation and optimize process parameters. Continued research and development efforts in this field have the potential to revolutionize wastewater treatment practices, enhance resource recovery, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
DETERMINATION OF THE LEVEL OF LIGHT SATURATION OF THE WHEAT PRODUCTIVE ACTIVITY DURING CULTIVATION ON SOLUTIONS WITH THE USE OF MINERALIZED HUMAN EXO-METABOLITES, AS APPLED TO HLSS
Authors:   Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Federal Research Center «Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS», Tikhomirova N.A. , Ushakova S.А. ,   Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Federal Research Center «Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS», Shikhov V.N. ,   Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Federal Research Center «Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS», Trifonov S.V. ,   Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Federal Research Center «Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS», Anishchenko O.V. ,   Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Federal Research Center «Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS», Tikhomirov А.А. ,   Institute of Biophysics SB RAS, Federal Research Center «Krasnoyarsk Science Center SB RAS»
Published: September 2024

We investigated the significance of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) for the production activity of wheat crops cultivated on liquid products of human exometabolites mineralization as applied to hybrid life support systems (HLSS). Object of the investigations was soft wheat Triticum aestivum L. cultivar 232 (G.M. Lisovsky selection) bred for cultivation in HLSS. Crops were raised in a hydroponics-based airtight plant growth chamber (silicic zirconium grains of 0.8 cm in diameter) with constant lighting. Light intensity on the level of upper leaves made up 700, 1100 and 1500 µmol/(m2∙s) PAR. Plants were assessed by condition of the photosynthetic apparatus of the leader shoot leaves, structure and biomass on the stage of technical ripeness, and mineral content. Cultivation of wheat cenosises on a neutral substrate with mineralized human exometabolites with the PAR intensity as high as 1100 µmol/(m2∙s) increased Кprod and reduced the vegetation period by 10 days in comparison to PAR at 700 µmol/(m2∙s). Increase of the PAR intensity to 1500 µmol/(m2∙s) caused an incremental stress manifested by a more intensive oxidation of cell membranes, impairment of the primary photosynthesis processes and, consequently, a double reduction of photosynthesis productivity in comparison with PAR = 700 µmol/(m2∙s).
Comparative Study of Lactogenic Effect and Milk Nutritional Density of Oral Galactagogue in Female Rabbit
Authors: Maru Saurabh , Belemkar Sateesh
Published: September 2024

Background:

Hypogalactia and agalactia in lactating mothers are the major causes of
child malnutrition, mortality, morbidity, and overall ill health. The development of such treatments
requires a well-designed preclinical study with suitable laboratory animals, which needs to
be improved. Thus, a suitably designed study with a laboratory animal to analyse galactagogue activity,
along with an assessment of the quality and quantity of milk, is required.

Objectives:

This study aimed to evaluate the potential of rabbits as an animal model for studying
lactogenic activity.

Methods:

The structural homology of prolactin, prolactin, and prolactin in humans, rabbits, and
rats was studied using BLAST and PyMol to assess similarity in the lactogenic system. Daily and
cumulative milk production and pre-treatment (control) and post-treatment (three drugs) in rabbits
were recorded and evaluated by analysing protein, fat, lactose, solid non-fat, and ash values. All
parameters were recorded on the 0th day and at the end of weeks 1, 2, and 3. Mammary gland histopathology
was performed to evaluate the effects on mammary glands.

Results:

Homology studies revealed that the sequences of the human and rabbit prolactin genes, receptors,
and hormones had a high similarity index. Treatment with Domperidone, Metoclopramide,
and Shatavari significantly enhanced milk production by enhancing prolactin secretion;
only Shatavari increased milk nutrition. Enlargement of the tubuloalveolar ducts of the mammary
glands was observed.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that rabbits are robust, reproducible, ethically superior, and preclinically
relevant animals for assessing lactogenic activity.
Work-Life Balance of Women Employees in Banking and Insurance Industries
Authors: Associate Professor Prakash Shrestha, , Professor Dilip Parajuli, , Lecturer Makshindra Thapa, , Mamata Prajapati,
Published: September 2024

This paper examines factors affecting the work-life balance (WLB) of women employees in Nepal. It alsoexplores the factors promoting WLB. This study adopts a qualitative research approach to assess the factorsaffecting the WLB of women employees and explore the factors that promote their WLB. 76 womenemployees (including clerical, officer, and executive level staff) are the key participants of this study. Datafrom these employees was gathered using a purposive sampling strategy. The results reveal that the keyfactors affecting WLB include work overload, long and unpredictable hours, family responsibilities, dualroles, performance pressure, client-centric focus, job demand, constant connectivity, economic pressures,and insufficient maternity and parental leave. On the other hand, the key factors promoting WLB includereasonable workload, self-awareness, supportive management, flexibility, employee assistance programs(EAPs), availability of support services, leave policies, continuous learning, time management skills andsocial support systems. WLB's significance is particularly substantial for women in patriarchal societies likeour own because of cultural norms that place significant obligations on working women to fulfill domesticduties even when they engage in income-generating jobs outside the home. The study of WLB amongfemale employees in the banking and insurance sectors is an important field of research with broadimplications for gender equality, employee well-being, and organizational performance. This studyprovides insightful information that will benefit employees as well as organizations. By recognizing andresolving WLB issues, organizations can improve work environments, advance gender equality, and boostoverall performance. Therefore, today's business organizations need to focus on some of the initiatives thatpromote the WLB of their employees.
Identifying Psychosocial and Ecological Determinants of Enthusiasm In Youth: Integrative Cross-Sectional Analysis Using Machine Learning
Authors: Dolling-Boreham Roberta M , Mohan Akshay , Abdelhack Mohamed , Elton-Marshall Tara , Hamilton Hayley A , Boak Angela , Felsky Daniel
Published: September 2024

Background

Understanding the factors contributing to mental well-being in youth is a public health priority. Self-reported enthusiasm for the future may be a useful indicator of well-being and has been shown to forecast social and educational success. Typically, cross-domain measures of ecological and health-related factors with relevance to public policy and programming are analyzed either in isolation or in targeted models assessing bivariate interactions. Here, we capitalize on a large provincial data set and machine learning to identify the sociodemographic, experiential, behavioral, and other health-related factors most strongly associated with levels of subjective enthusiasm for the future in a large sample of elementary and secondary school students.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify the sociodemographic, experiential, behavioral, and other health-related factors associated with enthusiasm for the future in elementary and secondary school students using machine learning.

Methods

We analyzed data from 13,661 participants in the 2019 Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey (OSDUHS) (grades 7-12) with complete data for our primary outcome: self-reported levels of enthusiasm for the future. We used 50 variables as model predictors, including demographics, perception of school experience (i.e., school connectedness and academic performance), physical activity and quantity of sleep, substance use, and physical and mental health indicators. Models were built using a nonlinear decision tree–based machine learning algorithm called extreme gradient boosting to classify students as indicating either high or low levels of enthusiasm. Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) values were used to interpret the generated models, providing a ranking of feature importance and revealing any nonlinear or interactive effects of the input variables.

Results

The top 3 contributors to higher self-rated enthusiasm for the future were higher self-rated physical health (SHAP value=0.62), feeling that one is able to discuss problems or feelings with their parents (SHAP value=0.49), and school belonging (SHAP value=0.32). Additionally, subjective social status at school was a top feature and showed nonlinear effects, with benefits to predicted enthusiasm present in the mid-to-high range of values.

Conclusions

Using machine learning, we identified key factors related to self-reported enthusiasm for the future in a large sample of young students: perceived physical health, subjective school social status and connectedness, and quality of relationship with parents. A focus on perceptions of physical health and school connectedness should be considered central to improving the well-being of youth at the population level.
Health Care Resource Use and Total Mortality After Hospital Admission for Severe COVID-19 Infections During the Initial Pandemic Wave in France: Descriptive Study (Preprint)
Authors: Dziadzko Mikhail , Belhassen Manon , Van Ganse Eric , Heritier Fabrice , Berard Marjorie , Marant-Micallef Claire , Aubrun Frederic
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Little is known about post–hospital health care resource use (HRU) of patients admitted for severe COVID-19, specifically for the care of patients with postacute COVID-19 syndrome (PACS).

OBJECTIVE

A list of HRU domains and items potentially related to PACS was defined, and potential PACS-related HRU (PPRH) was compared between the pre– and post–COVID-19 periods, to identify new outpatient care likely related to PACS.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted with the French National Health System claims data (SNDS). All patients hospitalized for COVID-19 between February 1, 2020, and June 30, 2020 were described and investigated for 6 months, using discharge date as index date. Patients who died during index stay or within 30 days after discharge were excluded. PPRH was assessed over the 5 months from day 31 after index date to end of follow-up, that is, for the post–COVID-19 period. For each patient, a pre–COVID-19 period was defined that covered the same calendar time in 2019, and pre–COVID-19 PPRH was assessed. Post- or pre- ratios (PP ratios) of the percentage of users were computed with their 95% CIs, and PP ratios>1.2 were considered as “major HRU change.”

RESULTS

The final study population included 68,822 patients (median age 64.8 years, 47% women, median follow-up duration 179.3 days). Altogether, 23% of the patients admitted due to severe COVID-19 died during the hospital stay or within the 6 months following discharge. A total of 8 HRU domains were selected to study PPRH: medical visits, technical procedures, dispensed medications, biological analyses, oxygen therapy, rehabilitation, rehospitalizations, and nurse visits. PPRs showed novel outpatient care in all domains and in most items, without specificity, with the highest ratios observed for the care of thoracic conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients hospitalized for severe COVID-19 during the initial pandemic wave had high morbi-mortality. The analysis of HRU domains and items most likely to be related to PACS showed that new care was commonly initiated after discharge but with no specificity, potentially suggesting that any impact of PACS was part of the overall high HRU of this population after hospital discharge. These purely descriptive results need to be completed with methods for controlling for confusion bias through subgroup analyses.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05073328; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05073328
Quantification of Urinary Exosomal Prostate-Specific Antigen for the Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer Using Clinical Laboratory–Based Techniques: Protocol for a Case-Control Study (Preprint)
Authors: Li Guorong , Tholance Yannick , Mallouk Nora , Waeckel Louis , Flandrin Pascale , Bali Bruno , Badet Lionel , Cornillon Pierre
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men and represents a major public health problem. The current method for the diagnosis or screening of prostate cancer is invasive and costly. There have been renewed and innovative studies searching for urinary biomarkers to aid in the diagnosis of prostate cancer, especially with technologies based on urinary exosomes. However, technologies based on urine exosomes usually need expensive machines such as an ultracentrifuge and they are difficult to standardize, which hinder their application in clinical laboratories. We have optimized and standardized the isolation of urinary exosomes with the precipitation method. We have found that urinary exosomal prostate-specific antigen (PSA) can be quantified by automatic Elecsys total PSA technique.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, our objective is to utilize urinary exosomes from prostate cancer for the development of a test to aid in its diagnosis.

METHODS

Exosomes from the prostate cancer cell line LNCaP was used to set up the technique. To analyze urine samples from patients, the methods include the collection of first-void urine using the Colli-Pee device, the isolation of urine exosomes using the optimized precipitation method, and the quantification of exosomal PSA by Elecsys total PSA.

RESULTS

This will be a 2-year study. We will start including patients and controls in the last quarter of 2024. We expect the results to be published in the second quarter of 2027.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to quantify urinary exosomal PSA using the Elecsys total PSA technique for the diagnosis of prostate cancer. This study emphasizes techniques that are suitable for implementation in clinical laboratories, which will facilitate the application of urinary exosomes to simplify and improve the diagnosis and screening of prostate cancer.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/63551
“In our world, calories are very important”- Experiences of Wheel-chair users with Spinal Cord Injury with commercial self-tracking technology and self-tracking: A qualitative interview study (Preprint)
Authors: Mylonopoulou Vasiliki , Cerna Katerina , Weilenmann Alexandra , Rost Mattias , Holmlund Tobias
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Commercial wearable and mobile wellness apps and devices become increasingly affordable and ubiquitous. One of their aims is to assist the individual wearing them in a healthier lifestyle by tracking and visualizing their data. Some of these devices and apps have the wheelchair mode to indicate that are designed for different types of bodies, e.g. wheelchair users with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). However, research focuses mainly on designing and developing new condition-specific self-tracking technology, while the experiences of wheelchair users with SCI using self-tracking technology remain under-explored.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to (1) give a comprehensive overview of the literature in the field of self-tracking technology and wheelchair users as a basis for the study, (2) present the self-tracking needs of wheelchair users with SCI, and (3) present their experiences and use of commercial self-tracking technology.

METHODS

We conducted semi-structured interviews with wheelchair users with SCI to understand their experiences with self-tracking and self-tracking technologies, their self-tracking needs, and how they changed before and after the injury. The interviews were thematically analyzed with an inductive approach.

RESULTS

Our findings consist of three themes (1) being a wheelchair user with SCI, (2) Reasons for self-tracking, and (3) experiences with self-tracking technologies and tools. The last theme consists of three sub-themes: self-tracking technology usage, trust in self-tracking technology, and calorie tracking.

CONCLUSIONS

In the discussion, we present how our findings relate to the literature and discuss the lack of trust in commercial self-tracking technologies regarding calorie tracking as well as the role of wheelchair users with SCI in the design of commercial self-tracking technology.

CLINICALTRIAL

Not relevant to this study
Digital Remote Monitoring in Cancer Care: What Difference Do the Nurses Navigators Make? (Preprint)
Authors: Minvielle Etienne , Perez-torrents Joël , Salma Israa , Aegerter Philippe , Ferrua Marie , Ferté Charles , Henri Leleu Henri , Mathivon Delphine , Sicotte Claude , Di Palma Mario , Scotté Florian
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Background: Digital Remote Monitoring (DRM) is improving cancer care management. However, the determinants of its effectiveness, particularly the role of Nurse Navigators (NN) within these systems, still need to be explored.

OBJECTIVE

Objective: This study focuses on the CAPRI DRM program, aiming to fill the gap in our understanding of the role of Nurse Navigators (NN) within this specific system and its effect on patient care in oncology.

METHODS

Methods: The CAPRI DRM, targeting patients on oral anticancer agents, combines digital interfaces with NN interventions. A phase 3 randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 559 patients assessed its safety and efficacy, with the primary endpoint being the relative dose intensity. This report focuses on 272 patients in the intervention arm, evaluating the impact of NN interventions on outcomes like toxicity, hospitalization, and emergency visits. Data from patients’ characteristics, NN interventions, and patient satisfaction surveys were analyzed using structural equation modelling

RESULTS

Results: The study included 172 patients. Patient characteristics significantly correlated with outcomes. NN interventions were consistently associated with improved patient satisfaction. The number of grades ≥3 toxicity events correlated positively with NN referrals to oncologists. Hospitalization lengths were positively related to NN referrals and inversely to NN advice. Emergency visits showed a negative correlation with NN actions and a positive correlation with NN calls and referrals.

CONCLUSIONS

Conclusion: The analysis validates the pivotal role of NN in DRM, suggesting a hybrid model of automated digital tools and human support. The study's limitations include its single-center nature and potential digital divide issues. Future research should explore the applicability of DRM in various clinical settings and the balance between automated systems and NN expertise.
Congenital heart disease screening program in elementary schools: a research-based policy
Authors: Dinarti Lucia Kris , Hartopo Anggoro Budi , Hadwiono Muhammad Reyhan , Wiradhika Abdul Majid Halim , Meliala Andreasta , Putri Likke Prawidya , Fajarwati Prahesti , Anggrahini Dyah Wulan
Published: September 2024

Purpose: CHD is a condition where heart abnormalities develop before birth and can lead to severe complications such as heart failure and premature death, especially among younger adults. Delayed diagnosis and treatment worsen the situation for CHD patients. Early screening can prevent CHD and ensure timely interventions. This study discusses the latest advancements in CHD screening for primary school children and the valuable insights gained from the program.
Method: The CHD screening program in Yogyakarta province involved three stages: consolidation, implementation, and incorporation. During the consolidation stage, key decision-makers in the province and local health offices were involved. Primary healthcare workers and primary school teachers were trained to deliver the screening during the implementation stage. Stakeholders, health workers, and teachers were invited to discuss the results, and the Provincial Governor's office was engaged during the incorporation stage.
Results: In 2018–2019, 18 CHDs were identified from 6,116 school-age children in 4 districts in Indonesia. The screening program was led by academics in the Universitas Gadjah Mada through 3 stages: consolidation, implementation, and incorporation. Strong collaboration with local stakeholders has contributed to the program's success in engaging 130 schools, 60 community health centers, and 190 health workers. Several opportunities for improvement are: strengthening the capacity and number of health providers at health centers to screen CHDs using 12-lead electrocardiography, addressing patients' reluctance to visit the health facility due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and motivating parents to have their children checked.
Conclusion: CHD screening using 12-lead electrocardiography and auscultation should be part of primary school health screenings. Academics can train health workers, and local governments can provide funding and prepare health facilities for follow-up treatment.
Preventing teenage pregnancy in developing countries: a scoping review
Authors: Ratnasari Desi , Sulistyaningsih Sulistyaningsih
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This study aimed to determine the most recent attempts to reduce teen pregnancies in low-income nations.
Methods: This scoping review used the PRISMA-ScR checklist, PEO framework, and Critical Appraisal for assessment. Data were obtained from Pubmed, Science Direct, Wiley, and Ebsco databases.
Results: The researcher discovered 2,536 pertinent articles, but only ten met the inclusion criteria, which included three themes: Teenage pregnancy-related factors, health initiatives to prevent them, and educational media.
Conclusion: Local laws, sex education in schools, parenting workshops, evidence-based youth programs, school reproductive health care, and instructional initiatives employing online media are all part of efforts to prevent adolescent pregnancy in developing nations.
Effectiveness of the breast self-examination demonstration in improving knowledge, attitudes, and behavior of adolescent girls in senior high school in Samarinda
Authors: Rahayu Eka Putri , Tonapa Emelia , Chifdillah Nino Adib
Published: September 2024

Purpose: This research aims to assess the effectiveness of the BSE demonstrations in enhancing the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of adolescent girls at SMA 1 Samarinda.
Methods: This research employed a pre-experimental design with the One Group pre-post test. There was a population of 208 adolescent girls, with Slovin getting 94 samples. The students were selected by simple random sampling.
Results: Knowledge p-value showed value (0,000) <  α (0,05) while both attitudes and behavior values showed ρ-value (0,000) <  α (0,05). There is an increase in knowledge, attitudes, and behavior before and after the BSE demonstration.
Conclusion:  The study concludes that BSE demonstrations effectively enhance adolescent girls' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors.
Potential transmission of leptospirosis from rats and ectoparasites in the Health Office of Port of Surabaya Class I
Authors: Wulandari Indah Sari , Satoto Tri Baskoro Tunggul , Ristiyanto
Published: September 2024

Purpose:  This study attempted to confirm leptospirosis in rats and ectoparasites in the working area of Tanjung Perak Port and the working region of Gresik Port Health Office of Port of Surabaya Class I.
Methods:  This study is a descriptive study using a cross-sectional approach. The samples were rats. The rats are identified to determine the type, then shaved to take ectoparasites and dissected to take the kidneys. Testing of pathogenic Leptospira bacteria using the ii-PCR method. The study lasted from October 2022 to February 2023.
Results: The rat species were Rattus norvegicus. Based on PCR examination, pathogenic Leptospira bacteria were found in the kidneys of rats Rattus norvegicus. Rattus norvegicus was infected with the pathogenic Leptospira bacteria in the Port of Tanjung Perak working area at 56,67% and in the Port of Gresik working area at 43,75%. The ectoparasites found are fleas, lice, and mites. Both study sites did not find Pathogenic Leptospira bacteria in ectoparasites (fleas and mites). Fleas infestation of Rattus norvegicus in the working area of Tanjung Perak Port increased by 80% and in the work area of Gresik Port by 68,75%.
Conclusion: The pathogenic Leptospira bacteria was found in both research sites in Rattus norvegicus's kidneys but not in ectoparasites (fleas and mites). Flea infestation is also high in both research locations.
Developing a Low-Cost Syringe Pump as a Support System for Electrospinning
Authors: Dewa Pascal Ariyanto  , Panji Setyo Nugroho  , Della Astri Widayani  , Luluk Arifatul Hikamiah  , Jasmine Cupid Amaratirta  , Dewanto Harjunowibowo  , Yulianto Agung Rezeki
Published: September 2024

Electrospinning is one of the techniques used to fabricate nanofibers. The syringe pump is one of the main parts of electrospinning, responsible for injecting the solution into the chamber with high precision. The syringe pump has a simple operating system, but it has a high price on the market. Its high price has been one of the obstacles for research groups in the fabrication of nanofibers. Hence, this research aimed to solve the problem of expensive syringe pumps by developing a low-cost syringe pump using affordable components. This research utilized methods from a literature study of syringe pump design, including the manufacturing and assembly of both hardware and software components. It also involved testing the calibration, optimization, and performance of the syringe pumps. An analysis of each stage was carried out until a conclusion was obtained. This syringe pump built in this research used a NEMA 17 stepper motor and TB6600 motor driver to control the flow rate. The total cost to develop this low-cost syringe pump was IDR632,300. Test and calibration were measured at a flow rate ranging from 1 mL/h to 5 mL/h using distilled water, resulting in an accuracy value of 96.7% and a precision value of 95.0%. Further research should utilize gear wheels to reduce the load of the motor stepper so as to prevent prolonged heated conditions. The results of this research can also be used as insight for researchers to develop another low-cost tool in other research fields.
Analisis Dampak Skenario Net Zero Emission terhadap Penyediaan Energi Nasional dengan LEAP
Authors: Widhiatmaka  , Joko Santosa  , Nona Niode  , Nurry Widya Hesty  , Afri Dwijatmiko  , Prima Trie Wijaya  , Agus Nurrohim  , Arif Darmawan  , Erwin Siregar
Published: September 2024

Capaian penyediaan energi nasional berbasis energi baru dan terbarukan (EBT) pada 2025 yang tertuang dalam Kebijakan Energi Nasional (KEN) sampai saat ini masih jauh di bawah target. Hal ini terjadi karena energi fosil masih mendominasi pada semua sektor. Demi mewujudkan target menuju net zero emission (NZE) pada 2060, perlu adanya transisi dari energi fosil ke EBT secara sistematis dan konsisten. Pemanfaatan energi fosil, baik berasal dari dalam negeri maupun impor, diharapkan menurun dan substitusi EBT akan meningkat. Penelitian ini bertujuan memberikan analisis prakiraan data penyediaan energi nasional serta pemanfaatannya, yang meliputi semua sektor, yaitu rumah tangga, industri, pembangkit listrik, transportasi, dan komersial, sampai 2060 menggunakan simulasi pemodelan energi dengan skenario business as usual (BAU) dan NZE. Pemodelan tersebut dilakukan dengan bantuan perangkat lunak Low Emission Analysis Platform (LEAP). LEAP merupakan model energi berbasis skenario yang terintegrasi dan digunakan untuk mengetahui kebutuhan dan produksi energi pada semua sektor ekonomi serta ekstraksi sumber daya energi. Hasil simulasi dengan skenario NZE menunjukkan penurunan secara drastis pemanfaatan energi fosil pada semua sektor dibanding skenario BAU, sedangkan pemanfaatan EBT naik, khususnya di sektor pembangkit. Berdasarkan simulasi tersebut, diperkirakan pada tahun 2060 kebutuhan pasokan batubara dalam negeri turun 81%, kebutuhan gas bumi turun sebesar 74%, kebutuhan bahan bakar minyak (BBM) turun 87%, kebutuhan liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) turun 84%, sedangkan kebutuhan minyak bumi tidak terpengaruh. Keseluruhan penyediaan EBT dengan skenario NZE selama kurun waktu 2019-2060 diperkirakan akan mengalami kenaikan rata-rata 9% per tahun atau setara kelipatan 2,3 kali dari skenario BAU.
The Development of Intelligent Web for Rural Social E-Learning
Authors: Seno Adi Putra  , Timmie Siswandi  , Dessy Yussela  , Rinez Asprinola  , Erin Karina  , Mega Candra Dewi  , Santi Al-arif
Published: September 2024

Social media technology affects the learning paradigm change towards social media-based learning, known as social e-learning. Social e-learning regards a person as a center of learning, dubbed people-centered learning. Here, people are encouraged to interact or communicate with others and produce their learning content. This work attempted to provide a solution model for rural e-learning social learning empowered with intelligent web technology. The proposed social e-learning includes several modules for development, such as personal space, collaboration space, and communication space modules. It also leverages intelligent web technologies currently implemented in today’s social media applications, such as article search, article recommendations, friendship recommendations, and document classification. In the searching module, the PageRank method was used to calculate the relevance score to determine the rating of the documents or articles. The similarity-based element calculation method was utilized to create articles’ suggestions and recommendations. The naïve Bayes algorithm, decision tree, and neural network were compared to find the best solution for article classification in agriculture, fisheries, animal husbandry, and plantations. When comparing these three algorithms, the result showed that the neural network was the most accurate classification, reaching 95.2% accuracy. A clustering algorithm, namely robust clustering using links (ROCK), was utilized for rural friendship recommendation. Thus, these algorithms (the PageRank, the similarity-based element, neural network, and the ROCK) were suitable and recommended for supporting intelligent web paradigms in social e-learning applications.