bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic Integration of Blockchain and Machine Learning: A Path to a Decentralized Intelligent Future
Authors: Neyigapula Bheema Shanker
Published: August 2023

The integration of blockchain and machine learning has emerged as a promising paradigm that can revolutionize various industries and applications. Blockchain’s decentralized and immutable nature, coupled with the analytical capabilities of machine learning, presents new opportunities for secure and transparent data sharing, collaborative model training, and intelligent decision-making. This research paper explores the concept of synergistic integration of blockchain and machine learning, providing an overview of the underlying technologies, related work, and existing frameworks. It proposes a novel Decentralized Intelli- gent Learning Network (DILN) framework that combines the strengths of both technologies to create a decentralized and efficient ecosystem for collaborative machine learning applications. The paper presents case studies in healthcare, finance, supply chain management, IoT, and academic research to showcase the potential impact of this integration. Furthermore, it discusses technical approaches, challenges, and ethical considerations to address in the deployment of decentralized intelligent systems. The research paper concludes by encourag- ing further research and development in the field to unlock the full potential of this transformative technology.
DFMFMA: Design of an efficient Deep learning model for age estimation from frontal Faces via Multimodal Feature representation & Multicomponent Augmented analysis
Authors: Jumbadkar Rupali
Published: August 2023

Age estimation from facial images has various applications, including security, healthcare, and entertainment. Accurate age estimation is essential for age- dependent services such as age-restricted content filtering, targeted advertising, and personalized health care. However, age estimation from facial images is a challenging task due to various factors such as variations in pose, illumination, occlusion, and aging patterns. Conventional approaches for age estimation from facial images are typically based on handcrafted features, such as texture, shape, and appearance features. These approaches often suffer from limited discriminative power and robustness to variations in the images. With the advent of deep learning, there has been a surge of interest in using deep neural networks for age estimation from facial images. Deep neural networks can learn complex and discriminative features from the images, enhancing the accuracy and robustness of the age estimation models. The proposed approach in this paper utilizes a deep learning-based approach for age estimation from frontal face images. The approach involves the analysis of facial components, including eyes, nose, and mouth, to capture age-related changes in different regions of the face images. The components are augmented using various operations such as rotation and shifting to improve the robustness of the model against variations in pose, illumination, and occlusions. The augmented components are then converted into multimodal features and individually classified using an efficient & novel Binary Cascaded CNN that employs binary weights and activations, reducing the model’s complexity and improving its efficiency levels. The use of multimodal features allows the model to capture the age-related changes in multiple domains, improving the dis- criminative efficiency of the model under multiple class scenarios. The + model’s accuracy is evaluated on augmented FGNET datasets and samples, achieving an accuracy of 99.5% with an MAE of 1.26 across all age groups. The high accuracy achieved by the proposed model highlights its effectiveness and potential for real-world age estimation scenarios.
Environmentally Friendly Binders from Calcium Carbide Residue and Silica Fume and Feasibility for Soft Clay Stabilization
Authors: Joyklad Panuwat , Suriwong Tawat , Inyai Thunthanut , Chomphurat Thanakorn , Julphunthong Phongthorn
Published: August 2023

This study demonstrates the use of calcium carbide residue (CCR) and silica fume (SF), both of industrial waste, as green binders instead of ordinary Portland cement (OPC). A series of raw material fractions was designed based on the molar ratio derived from the pozzolanic reaction and the chemical composition of the raw materials. The Ca/SiO2 molar ratio (C/S ratio) ranged from 1.85 to 0.65. The chemical composition, phase evolution and microstructure of the raw materials and hydrated pastes were characterized by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The results show that the fraction of raw materials significantly influences the cementitious formation and compressive strength of specimens. The sample with the highest compressive strength over a long period had a C/S ratio of 1.55, which is related to the C-S-H content in the pastes. The CCR-SF mixture demonstrates promising potential as a stabilizer for enhancing the strength of soft Bangkok clay, particularly in the context of long-term observation. The addition of 30 wt.% of this mixture results in a substantial improvement, with the stabilized clay achieving an unconfined compressive strength that is 84% higher compared to the use of a 10 wt.% OPC stabilizer.
Identification and functional analysis of circulating extrachromosomal circular DNA in schizophrenia implicate its negative effect on the disorder
Authors: Xiang Xi , Pan Xiaoguang , Lv Wei , Chen Shanshan , Zhang Haoran , Li Jinguang , Liao Yanhui , Yu Jiaying , Li Jing , Dang Yonghui , You Zifan , Wang Liangliang , Chen Wei , Han Peng , Tang Jinsong
Published: August 2023

Background: Extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA) is a circular DNA molecule derived and free from linear chromosome, its characteristics and potential function in SCZ remain unclear.
Methods: Here, we explored the presence of circulating eccDNA in the plasma of chronic SCZ and healthy control using Circle-seq. Then the molecular role of SCZ over-represented eccDNAs was investigated by bioinformatical and experimental analysis.
Results: 211 over-represented eccDNAs carrying genic segments (eccGene), including eccTAOK2, eccDNMT3B, eccSIRT5, eccJAG1 and so on, were identified in 10 chronic SCZ patients, whereas only 26 over-represented eccGenes were found in 17 healthy people. Human phenotype ontology enrichment analysis upon the 211 SCZ over-represented eccGenes showed that six of them were enriched significantly in the phenotype of progressive intellectual disability. Functional assays of two artificial eccDNAs carrying TAOK2-intronic sequence showed that they attenuated the TAOK2 mRNA expression in both U-251MG and SH-SY5Y cell lines, which the function was further confirmed by dual-luciferase reporter gene assay. In addition, RNA-seq analysis showed that introduction of the artificial eccTAOK2 in U-251MG cells resulted in dysregulation of immune-related biological processes.
Conclusions: These findings delineate the circulating eccDNAs profile of SCZ and highlight the regulatory function of eccTAOK2 and its impact on cellular immune processes, underscoring the eccDNA biology and its potential role as a noninvasive biomarker for diagnosis and monitoring of schizophrenia.
Implementation of Smart Security System in
Agriculture fields Using Embedded Machine
Learning
Authors: v viswanatha , A.C Ramachandra , Hegde Puneet T , V Raghunatha Reddy M , Hegde Vivek , Sabhahit Vageesh
Published: August 2023

Tiny Machine Learning (TinyML), a branch of
machine learning that focuses on the effectiveness of machine
learning on extremely constrained edge machines, is flourishing.
Deep learning techniques are being used more frequently lately
in a variety of data-intensive and time-sensitive Internet of
Things (IoT) apps. Because MCUs lack resources like RAM,
deploying new methods like Deep Neural Networks (DNN)
models on them has proven challenging. However, recent
developments in the TinyML space promise to create a
completely new class of peripheral apps. By eliminating the need
for the cloud's omnipresent computing support, which uses
power and presents risks to data security and privacy, TinyML
paves the way for the development of original apps and services.
Traditional machine learning needs a lot of processing capacity
to predict a scenario. This computational capacity will be moved
from high-end systems to low-end devices thanks to the TinyML
method for machine learning on small devices. To keep the
precision of the learning models, enable resource-efficient small
edge devices to manage the training and deployment process,
maximize computing capacity, and enhance dependability are
some of the challenges presented by this change. Here in this
paper, we propose a efficient method to detect animals near
farmland for security purposes using TinyML and compared
with many algorithms and their effectiveness.
The Effectiveness and Safety of the Treatment of Severe Pneumonia by Clearing away Lung Heat and Relieving Asthma: study protocol for a clinically randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Shi Rong , Menghan XU , Yu Ma , Qing YE , Wenqing WANG , Chengwei YIN , Qianmei ZHOU
Published: August 2023

OBJECTIVE: Severe pneumonia (SP) is a common serious respiratory infectious disease that causes rapid changes in health and has a high fatality rate.To date, timely and effective anti-infection strategies and rational and scientific mechanical ventilation have failed to resolve early oxygenation conflicts in SP patients, and treatment is difficult. A clinical combination of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) treatments is a feasible approach. This single-center RCT was designed to validate the safety and efficacy of a method for treating SP by clearing lung heat and relieving asthma.
METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This is an ongoing single-center RCT to confirm the efficacy and safety of the method of clearing away lung heat and relieving asthma in treating SP. The study was initiated on September 24, 2022, and is scheduled to be completed on September 30, 2024. This trial collected 92 patients with SP admitted to Shuguang Hospital, affiliated with the Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and divided them into two groups in a ratio of 1:1 using a randomized number table. We obtained informed consent from the patients in the form of a written informed consent document signed by human participants. To develop a treatment regimen in addition to this prescription, the treatment group was referred to the Chinese guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of community-acquired pneumonia in adults (2018 edition). The patients in the control group received only basic treatment for 12 ± 2 days, and they were observed for morbidity and mortality rates and safety indicators on day 28, and they were followed up on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 of treatment. SPSS 19.0 will be used for statistical analysis. All statistical tests will be two-sided.
DISCUSSION: The trial suggested in this research attempts to construct a randomized, controlled clinical study to establish an evidence-based basis for developing a relatively single, clinically operable treatment and new drug development.
Trial registration: A randomized and controlled study of Qingjin Pingchuan recipe in treating severe pneumonia, ChiCTR2200063694. Registered 14 September 2022, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=177431
The Evaluation of Giant-Cell Arteritis (Temporal Arteritis) Cases with Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography (OCT-A)
Authors: Kasikci Murat , Erturk Adem , Erogul Ozgur
Published: August 2023

AIM: This study aimed tomeasureinactive giant cell arteritis (GCA) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCT-A) in patients previously affected by GCAand treated (patient group), and to compare these measures with those of healthy volunteers (control group).
METHODS: In this observational case-control study, 18 eyes of 18 GCA cases previously diagnosed, treated with anterior arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (AAION) were examined. 22 eyes of 22 ophthalmically healthy volunteers were included in the study. After external ophthalmic examinations of all participants were performed, their measurements were made with serial OCT-A. Superficial capillary plexus (SCP), deep capillary plexus (DCP), foveal avascular zone (FAZ), area covering 300 degrees around the fovea (FD-300), choriocapillaris (CC), retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), cup/disc (C/D) ratio and optic disc vessel densities (OD-VD) were evaluated. A value of p<0.05 was considered significant for statistical analyses.
RESULTS: There was no difference between the two groups in terms of age, gender and shooting quality. Whole-SCP, SCP-foveal, SCP-parafoveal and SCP-perifoveal VD values were lower in the patient group. Whole-DCP, DCP-parafoveal and DCP-perifoveal VD values were also lower in the patient group than control group. FAZ areas were similar between groups, but the FD-300 VD was different. Whole-OD VD and inside-OD VD were significantly lower in the patient group. Peripapillary-OD VD and RNFL values were similar. The C/D ratio was higher in the patient group.The effect on the microvascular process was significant in OCT-A.
CONCLUSION: The results suggested that even if the ischemic process still continues and there is no active inflammation, microvascular structures may continue to be affected.
Empirical Bayes Inference on the Inverse Weibull Model
Parameters based on Characteristic Prior
Authors: Maswadah M.
Published: August 2023

Empirical Bayes has become increasingly popular and has been applied to many types of problems. To increase its popularity, a new method has been used for constructing prior density functions by utilizing the characteristic function. For comparing the empirical Bayes estimates based on the characteristic prior and the informative prior, the mean squared errors and the mean percentage errors for the inverse Weibull distribution parameters have been derived based on symmetric and asymmetric loss functions via Monte Carlo simulations. The simulation results indicated that the empirical Bayes based on the characteristic prior provides a better estimate and outperforms the informative gamma prior for different sample sizes. Moreover, the characteristic prior is flexible for applications without using hyperparameters. Finally, a numerical example is given to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed priors.
Direito do consumidor e consumismo: Uma revisão sistemática da literatura na área de ensino
Authors: Cipriani Flávia , Camara Pizzato Michelle
Published: August 2023

O presente artigo tem como principal objetivo mapear o conhecimento já elaborado quanto à produção acadêmica e científica relacionada ao ensino do Direito do Consumidor e do Consumismo. Trata-se de uma revisão sistemática a partir do estado da arte que utilizou a base de dados do Catálogo de Teses e Dissertações da CAPES. Primeiramente, descreveu-se o percurso metodológico para a seleção dos estudos que constituíram a amostragem final, atendendo aos critérios de inclusão. Depois disso, para facilitar a análise e discussão dos resultados, realizou-se a categorização dos temas pesquisados em três eixos, com os temas mais focalizados para: o Direito do Consumidor; o Consumo/Consumismo; e a Educação Financeira. Foram analisadas as abordagens metodológicas predominantes e os autores mencionados mais frequentemente nos estudos, além de terem sido apontados os objetivos e os resultados das pesquisas. Por fim, concluiu-se que é bastante escassa a produção científica em relação ao ensino de Direito do Consumidor, e que a sua abordagem de maneira integrada com os temas Consumismo e Educação Financeira pode ser uma estratégia válida para que o ensino da temática se aproxime da realidade dos estudantes, materializando-se em ações concretas e promovendo a cidadania por meio da efetivação dos direitos dos consumidores.
Potencialidades da hermenêutica filosófica de Gadamer para a formação pedagógica docente
Authors: Rizzi Marcom Jacinta Lucia , Rezer Ricardo
Published: August 2023

Este artigo tem por objetivo refletir acerca das contribuições da hermenêutica filosófica gadameriana para a formação pedagógica docente. Para tal, realizamos inicialmente, um programa de estudos sobre a hermenêutica clássica (SCHLEIERMACHER, 2005; DILTHEY, 1989, 1999) e, posteriormente, sobre a hermenêutica filosófica gadameriana (GADAMER, 2002, 2008), com o apoio de aportes teóricos contemporâneos, destacadamente Palmer (1999), Hermann (2002) e Berticelli (2004). Neste percurso procuramos produzir uma interlocução entre os conceitos hermenêuticos, especialmente de cunho gadameriano e o tema da formação docente. Entendemos que as potencialidades deste referencial permitem considerar a linguagem, o diálogo genuíno e a fusão de horizontes referências promissoras para pensar propostas que superem a visão instrumental e tecnicista do conhecimento e da formação docente.
Currículo das emergências: Leituras curriculares no contexto da escola pós-pandemia
Authors: Raika Brandt Bihringer Katiúscia , Aparecida dos Santos Sandra , Leandro Chiodini Éverton
Published: August 2023

Esta pesquisa parte do pressuposto de que o currículo pode ser compreendido como instrumento de mediação escolar ante às intencionalidades sociais, considerando o período pós-pandemia de Covid-19. Assim, objetivamos analisar emergências curriculares no retorno à escola após período pandêmico mediante novas possibilidades de compreensões. Para tanto, debruçamo-nos sobre reflexões mais específicas quanto à elaboração curricular, levando em conta as novas configurações dos processos de ensinar e aprender. A partir da análise de um conjunto de textos digitais produzido por professores da Educação Básica, elaboramos reflexões acerca das categorias Fragilidades e Efetividades quanto ao retorno escolar às atividades presenciais no primeiro semestre de 2021. Em condução à Análise Textual Discursiva (ATD), interpretamos que as fragilidades e as potencialidades nas (re)leituras de currículo mobilizam, nos professores e nos estudantes, novas relações com os documentos normatizadores, em observância às emergências a partir dos tempos de aulas remotas síncronas. Ademais, evidenciamos reflexões sobre o currículo das emergências enquanto movimentos de reconstrução dos conhecimentos escolares, uma vez que se transformam em vista às novas demandas e realidades sociais que acontecem nos processos pedagógicos.
Can social media visibility affect institutional ownership and trading consensus on sharia stocks?
Authors: Shibghatalloh Ahmad Hafiyyan , Wahyudi Sugeng , Setyorini Noni , Abukil Abdulhamid Ali
Published: August 2023

Purpose - This study aims to examine the effect of Instagram users’ responses to corporate Instagram post (Likes and Comments) toward trading consensus and institutional ownership of sharia stocks in Indonesia.Method - This study used purposive sampling technique. The number of samples in this study were 158 companies registered in ISSI (Indonesia Sharia Stock Index) and having an active Instagram account. Data processing using SPSS.26 with Ordinary Least Square (OLS).Result - The results showed that Instagram users’ responses increased the institutional investor and individual investor in sharia stock. The interpretation for this findings that such Instagram activities increase the visibility of the company across a more diverse group of investors. This increase visibility makes information more accessible to individual and institutional investors, so that they are attracted to invest more in sharia stock.Implication - Sharia issuer companies should also use social media to provide valid information to potential investors. So that it can be one of the foundations of investors in choosing Islamic stocks.Originality - This research is the first study that used social media to measure sharia stock ownership.
The financial performance of Islamic boarding school in the domain of social networking, trust, and morality of financial accountability
Authors: Hartono Setyo Budi , Wijayanti Riska , Sekarsari Vella Rizki
Published: August 2023

Purpose - The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of social capital and Morality of Financial Accountability (MoFA) on the financial performance of modern Islamic boarding schools.Method - The population of this research is Islamic boarding schools in Central Java with 40 samples. Measurements were made using a questionnaire with indicators contained in the variables of social networks, trust, MoFA, and financial performance. Data processing was carried out using WarpPLS software with small sample .Result - The results of this study are social network and trust variables have a significant and positive effect on financial performance with an influence value of 23% and 33% respectively. Meanwhile, if it is moderated by spiritual capital, it has an influence on the relationship between social network variables and trust on financial performance, respectively 28% and 21%. Thus spiritual capital will strengthen the relationship between social networks and trust.Implication - The relationship between MoFA in social capital can strengthen the financial performance of Islamic boarding schools due to additional information about plans to use donated funds for good.Originality - MoFA is the development of additional information on the basis of compilation on the legality of kindness, disclosure of consistent reports, honesty in transactions.
Water level recognition based on strong edge and sparse constraints
Authors: Ren Guoheng , Wang Wei , Wei Hanyu , Li Xiaofeng
Published: August 2023

This paper takes the intelligent water level recognition instrument of Qingming Shanghe Park in Kaifeng as the experimental object, introduces the algorithm of strong edge and sparse constraint into the intelligent water level recognition instrument, and compares the recognition effect of the intelligent water level recognition instrument before and after the introduction of strong edge and sparse constraint algorithms. The results showed that the clarity value was approximately 10% higher, and the recognition speed was also significantly improved. The improvement of recognition speed can effectively promote the work efficiency of the whole method. Strong edges and sparse constraints can effectively improve the accuracy of water level identification, provide scientific and effective data and information for subsequent water resource management, and meet the needs of water resource managers to effectively grasp the law of water level. This can provide technical support for identification methods in other fields, and the ultimate goal is to promote the protection and management of water resources and reduce the harm of natural disasters on people.
Effect of KOH Content in the Electrolyte on Corrosion Properties of PEO-Coated EV31 Magnesium Alloy
Authors: KNAP V.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. This study analyzed the influence of electrolyte composition on the corrosion resistance of plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) coatings on EV31 magnesium alloy. An electrolyte solution was prepared by mixing 12 g/l Na3PO4 and various levels of KOH (1, 2, and 4 g/l). The PEO coating was produced with a direct current (DC) regime of 0.05 mA.cm-2 current density and a maximum voltage of 630 V. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was performed to assess the corrosion resistance after one hour exposure in 0.1 M NaCl. The results indicated that KOH content has a substantial effect on the morphology and corrosion resistance of the PEO coating and align with previous similar studies. The lowest porosity and highest polarization resistance were observed in the PEO coating prepared with 2 g/l of KOH in the electrolyte, resulting in the best corrosion resistance among the evaluated samples. The presence of only one capacitive loop in the Nyquist diagram and low polarization resistance Rp values of the samples with 4 g/l of KOH in the electrolyte indicated insufficient compactness due to high porosity of the coating.
The Biodegradation and the Rheological Properties of Polypropylene/Hyperbranched Polyester Blends for Industrial Applications
Authors: AL-MUTAIRI N.H.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. In this research, four novel types of hyperbranched polyester polymers (HBPs) were used and blended with polypropylene polymer PP, virgin VPP and recycled rPP, using a twin-screw extrusion machine. Hyperbranched polyester was added in different weight ratios (5%, 10%, and 20%). The Fourier transform spectroscopy FTIR, the water contact angle CA, the biodegradation in soil, and the rheological properties (melt flow rate MFR) of the prepared blends were investigated. The results showed that the contact angle of VPP and rPP blends has improved with the addition of HBPs, and in addition, the biodegradation results in soil showed that weight loss increased as the amount of HBPs increased in VPP and rPP blends. The rheological properties, melt flow rate MFR, showed that the addition of HBPs increased the MFR for both PP blends, VPP and rPP. In addition, it was found that the blends' viscosity was decreased and their shear rate was increased. This is an indication that the HBPs work as a processing aid additive by increasing the shear thinning behavior.
Experimental Results of Helical Metal Expansion Joints Fabrication
Authors: KURP P.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. This paper discusses the technological assumptions for the production of helical metal expansion joint as a new type of expansion joints used to eliminate torsional deformations of industrial pipelines. The method of mechanically assisted laser forming, which was used as a manufacturing technology, was presented as well. Furthermore, technological parameters and experimental results obtained during the fabrication of helical metal expansion joints were presented. Mainly presented and discussed are the results such as: obtained geometry, forces necessary to produce the product, processing temperature, strain rate and others. Satisfactory treatment results were obtained, which are illustrated below.
The Use of Computer Simulation in the Management of Subcontractors and Outsourced Services
Authors: KRYNKE M.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. The paper examines cooperation among production companies to fulfill orders beyond plant capacity by selecting subcontractors. The developed model focuses on planning the production process to minimize total production costs by deciding where to produce goods before they are actually produced. The concept utilized a 3D FlexSim simulation environment, specifically the built-in optimization module OptQuest, to address the problem. The paper covers the key steps in creating the simulation model and presents the simulation results.
Matching Computational Tools to User Competence Levels in Education of Engineering Data Processing
Authors: RADEK M.
Published: August 2023

Abstract. Computational data processing often poses significant challenges for individuals not professionally specialized in this area. In particular, the problem lies in finding suitable computational tools that, on the one hand, have the necessary functionalities and, on the other hand, are easy to use for users with intermediate or low-level competencies. During the academic year 2022/2023, the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Cracow University of Technology conducted classes on data processing for three diverse groups: the third- and fourth-year students of a public high school with a math-physics-computer science profile, undergraduate students in safety engineering, and undergraduate students in applied informatics. The needs regarding the functionalities of the computational tools and the competencies in their usage were compared, both in the assessment of the instructors and the participants themselves. The article presents comparisons of computational tools in terms of various aspects, as well as guidelines for their application for each target group.
Performance Evaluation of Nepalese Mutual Fund
Authors: Ghimire Binod , Pant Ramesh
Published: August 2023

This study analyzes the financial performance of mutual fund on account of risk adjusted performance evaluation techniques: Sharpe's ratio. This study incorporates the examination of the effect of market index return, Treasury bill rate and systematic risk on performance. As in Sharpe's ratio, market index return is taken as dependent variables; on the other hand, Treasury bill rate and systematic risk are taken as predictor variables. Findings imply that mutual funds in Nepal have not satisfactory performance based on Sharpe's ratio. Likewise, study further exposes that market index return, systematic risk are significant and positively influences the Sharpe's ratio where as treasury bill is significant and negatively influence on the Sharpe's ratio performance of the Nepalese mutual funds. Hence, market index return, Treasury bill rate and systematic risk have major effect on the performance based on Sharpe's ratio in Nepal
Effectiveness of Self-Care Training Module forWork-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders Among Handloom Weavers at Udaynarayanpur, West Bengal
Authors: Datta Dibyendu Bikash , Sarkar Biswajit , Biswas Anwesha
Published: August 2023

This study attempted to describe the interpretation of self-care behaviors of handloom weavers having musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) and the influence of the training module, which ultimately enhances their self-care habits. Handloom weavers adopt uncomfortable postures, which lead to poor performance and MSD. As a result, both individuals and organizations suffer economic losses. MSDs are among the main workplace hazards for ergonomists. Many handloom weavers also work in risky occupations. Weavers worked in static positions with pressure on their legs, feet, hands, and wrists. Based on this factor, we explored MSD prevalence among handloom weavers. The Self-Care Habit Assessment Questionnaire includes general care, recognizing early signs of discomfort, and evaluating the effectiveness of workouts for work-related MSD. Researchers collected data through structured interviews with 50 handloom weavers who met the inclusion criteria. Participants in the study received a guidebook on treating work-related MSD with proper explanations. Apost-knowledge examination was conducted for the same study participants fifteen days later using the same questionnaire. Researchers found that the mean score for general instructions improved from 1.76±0.32 in the pre-knowledge to 2.76±0.21 in post-knowledge, and the mean score for identifying pain and discomfort increased from 2.06±0.52 to 2.34±0.32. Besides, knowledge related to workout assessment improved from 2.02±0.36 in the pre-knowledge to 2.71±0.28 in the post-knowledge, with a statistically significant improvement of p<0.5. The written instructional guidelines with explanation enhanced better understanding and promoted self-care habits among handloom weavers performing workouts. Research shows that practicing Self-Care Training Modules for Work-Related MSD can reduce the risk of MSD among handloom weavers and attenuate physical and emotional discomfort.
Present scenario of Ginger Farming in West- Garo Hills District Meghalaya: An Analysis
Authors: Sangma Bilgark Ch , Kalita Bidyut Jyoti
Published: August 2023

One of the key species grown in the North-East is ginger. The rural agricultural populations' livelihood comes from the cultivation of ginger, which also helps with socio-economic advancement. Farmer endeavors and the expansion of the production base are encouraged by the favourable soil and climatic characteristics of some of the chosen agro-climatic zones. However, there are some limitations on ginger production and marketing, especially from the perspective of farmers. This paper attempt to analyse the contemporary scenario of ginger farming in West-Garo Hills District of Meghalaya. The study is primarily undertaken from farmer's perspective. In the process of doing the same, constraints of the ginger growers are also taken into consideration. The study is based on both primary as well as secondary data. Ginger growers were selected based on non-probabilistic convenience sampling procedure. Desired responses were obtained with the help of structured schedule. It was observed that increasing input cost primarily affect the ginger growers. There is scope for improvement in the form of value addition at the growers' level, farmers can add significant value by processing and diversifying their raw ginger supply. The study's suggestive conclusion is that ginger-based agro-entrepreneurship should be promoted. The study suggest for the development of favourable market conditions to the growers' greater advantage. Absence of well-organized markets set up also acts as impediments in the process of production and marketing of ginger.
User-Centered Development of a Mobile App to Assess the Quality of Life of Patients With Cancer: Iterative Investigation and Usability Testing
Authors: Beutter Chantal N L , Zeller Katharina , Martens Uwe M , Pfleiderer Bettina , Fegeler Christian
Published: August 2023

Background

The treatment for cancer can have a negative impact not only on physical well-being but also on mental health and the quality of life (QoL). Health apps enable the monitoring of different parameters, but to date, there are only few that support patients with cancer and none that focuses on the assessment of QoL. Furthermore, patients as stakeholders are often only integrated at the late stage of the development process, if at all.

Objective

The aim of this research was to develop and evaluate a smartphone app (Lion-App) to enable patients with cancer to autonomously measure the QoL with an iterative, user-centered approach.

Methods

Patients with cancer were involved in a 3-stage process from conceptualization to the point when the app was available on the tester’s private device. First, focus groups with members (N=21) of cancer support groups were conducted to understand their expectations and needs. Thereafter, individual tests were performed. After developing a prototype that incorporated findings from the focus groups, a second test cycle was conducted, followed by a beta test lasting 2 months. In our app, the QoL can be assessed via a patient diary and an integrated questionnaire. Through all stages, usability was evaluated using the modular extended version of the User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ+), including the calculation of a key performance indicator (KPI). If possible, the impact of sex on the results was evaluated. As part of the beta test, usage rates as well as age-dependent differences were also assessed.

Results

A total of 21 participants took part in the initial 3 focus groups. In the subsequent usability testing (N=18), 17 (94%) participants rated their impression through the UEQ+, with a mean KPI of 2.12 (SD 0.64, range: –3 to 3). In the second usability test (N=14), the mean KPI increased to 2.28 (SD=0.49). In the beta test, the usage rate of 19 participants was evaluated, of whom 14 (74%) also answered the UEQ+ (mean KPI 1.78, SD 0.84). An influence of age on the number of questionnaire responses in Lion-App was observed, with a decrease in responses with increasing age (P=.02). Sex-dependent analyses were only possible for the first usability test and the beta test. The main adjustments based on user feedback were a restructuring of the diary as well as integration of a shorter questionnaire to assess the QoL.

Conclusions

The iterative, user-centered approach for development and usability testing resulted in positive evaluations of Lion-App. Our app was rated as suitable for everyday use to monitor the QoL of patients with cancer. Initial results indicated that the sex and age of participants seem to play only a minor role.
Impact of Digital Inclusion Initiative to Facilitate Access to Mental Health Services: Service User Interview Study (Preprint)
Authors: Oliver Amy , Chandler Ella , Gillard Julia A
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Digital exclusion, characterized by a lack of access to digital technology, connectivity, or digital skills, disproportionally affects marginalized groups. An important domain impacted by digital exclusion is access to health care. During COVID-19, health care services had to restrict face-to-face contact to limit the spread of the virus. The subsequent shift toward remote delivery of mental health care exacerbated the digital divide, with limited access to remote mental health care delivery. In response, Camden and Islington National Health Service Foundation Trust launched the innovative Digital Inclusion Scheme (DIS).

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the impact of facilitating digital inclusion in mental health access. Camden and Islington National Health Service Foundation Trust implemented the trust-wide DIS for service users who were digitally excluded, that is, were without devices or connectivity or reported poor digital skills. The scheme provided access to a loan digital device (a tablet), internet connectivity devices, and mobile data, as well as personalized digital skills support.

METHODS

The DIS went live in October 2021 and received 106 referrals by June 2022. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 12 service users to ask about their experience of accessing the DIS. A thematic analysis identified themes and subthemes relating to the extent of their digital exclusion before engaging with the scheme and the impact of accessing a scheme on their ability to engage with digital technology and well-being.

RESULTS

There were 10 major themes. A total of 6 themes were related to factors impacting the engagement with the scheme, including digital exclusion, relationship to the trust, the importance of personalized digital support, partnership working, device usability and accessibility, and personal circumstances. The remaining 4 themes spoke to the impact of accessing the scheme, including improved access to services, impact on well-being, financial implications, and a greater sense of empowerment.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants reported an increased reliance on technology driving the need for digital inclusion; however, differences in motivation for engaging with the scheme were noted, as well as potential barriers, including lack of awareness, disability, and age. Overall, the experience of accessing the DIS was reported as positive, with participants feeling supported to access the digital world. The consequences of engaging with the scheme included greater perceived access to and control of physical and mental health care, improved well-being, and a greater sense of empowerment. An overview of the lessons learned are provided along with suggestions for other health care settings that are looking to implement similar schemes.
Rapid assessments for the deployment of seasonal malaria chemoprevention in new geographies of east and southern Africa: protocol for a hybrid type II implementation study. (Preprint)
Authors: Suau Sans Maria , Nnaji Chuks , Gudoi Sam , Okel Lucy , Walker Patrick G. T. , Cuomo-Dannenburg Gina , Bwanika John Baptist , Enosse Sonia Maria , Sitoe Mercia , Alejandro Pulido Tarquino Ivan , Rassi Christian , Bonnington Craig , Baker Kevin
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Seasonal malaria chemoprevention (SMC) is a highly effective community-based intervention to prevent malaria infections caused by Plasmodium falciparum in areas where the burden of malaria is high and malaria transmission is seasonal. SMC is commonly seen as a success story in the Sahel region, however, there are regions in east and southern Africa where malaria transmission is seasonal, and the burden is high. The same decision-making frameworks that were used in the Sahel are unlikely to be applicable to east and southern Africa due to higher pre-existing resistance to the drugs used, seasonality heterogeneity, contextual differences, and unknown cost-effectiveness, amongst others.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to estimate the effectiveness, chemoprevention efficacy, potential deployment impact, acceptability, and feasibility of SMC with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine and amodiaquine (SPAQ) in new geographies of east and southern Africa.

METHODS

The protocol is divided into five linked components: (1) a cluster randomized controlled trial to estimate the effectiveness of SMC with SPAQ; (2) a non-randomized controlled trial to estimate the chemoprevention efficacy of SPAQ; (3) surveillance of the prevalence of molecular markers associated with resistance to S, P and AQ drugs, (4) a dynamical modelling exercise to estimate the impact of SMC and where to prioritise future deployment and (5) a qualitative study that will evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention.

RESULTS

Rapid assessments in different geographies of east and southern Africa are expected to begin in 2023-2024. More geographies are currently being explored for the conduction of rapid assessments. Results are expected in 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

These will be the first studies analysing the effectiveness, chemoprevention efficacy, feasibility, acceptability, and potential impact of SMC in new east and southern African geographies. The outcomes of these studies aim to guide future policy changes at local, national, and international levels and potentially allow for a historically successful program to expand in a sustained and cost-effective way beyond the Sahel region.
Effectiveness of digital health-supported lifestyle modification in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Oh Joo Hyun , Park Yewan , Sinn Dong Hyun , Kang Danbee , Sohn Won , Jun Dae Won , Ahn Sang Bong , Choi Moon Seok
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Lifestyle modification is a key intervention in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Digital health technologies have emerged as potential tools to support lifestyle modification; however, current evidence regarding this topic is limited.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effectiveness of digital health-supported lifestyle changes in patients with NAFLD.

METHODS

Relevant studies were selected from MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials until April 5th, 2023, using the search terms NAFLD and digital health. The primary outcome included change in body weight. Secondary outcomes included changes in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and attrition rate, the proportion of participants who dropped out of the study before completion. Subgroup analyses of digital health modalities were performed, and the data were pooled using the random effect method.

RESULTS

Nine studies (967 patients with NAFLD) were analyzed, including eight randomized controlled trials and one prospective study. Digital health-supported lifestyle modification resulted in a greater mean reduction in body weight (weighted mean difference [WMD]: −3.54 kg) and greater reductions in ALT and AST (WMD of ALT: −11.92 U/L and WMD of AST: −6.33 U/L) compared to conventional treatment. The attrition rate was not significantly different between the two groups. Telephone- and mobile phone-based interventions were effective in reducing boDigital health-supported lifestyle modification was effective in lowering body weight and improving laboratory findings in patients with NAFLD. The acceptable attrition rate suggests that patients with NAFLD may benefit from digital health technology.dy weight, and mobile phone-based interventions particularly showed greater reductions in AST levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Digital health-supported lifestyle modification was effective in lowering body weight and improving laboratory findings in patients with NAFLD. The acceptable attrition rate suggests that patients with NAFLD may benefit from digital health technology.
The effect of environmental accounting information disclosure on financial performance of Vietnamese listed industrial firms: The moderating role of Leverage and Big4
Authors: Nguyen Thuy An , Le Phuoc Huong , Nguyen Huu Dang , Luong Thi Cam Tu , Ngo My Tran
Published: August 2023

Environmental Accounting Information Disclosure (EAID) is the most recent novelty in corporate non-financial information reporting practice. This study aims to evaluate the effects of EAID on the financial performance of Vietnamese enterprises. The population of this study comprises listed companies in the industrial sector on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange for the period of five years (2017–2021). The research employed a purposive sampling technique and some analysis techniques, such as content analysis and regression analysis, including Ordinary Least Squares, Fixed Effects Model, Random Effects Model, and Feasible General Least Squares. The final regression results show a positive effect of EAID on profitability. Specifically, as a moderating variable, leverage weakens the relationship when financial performance is measured by ROA and ROE, whereas the quality of financial statements is assured by the Big 4, which strengthens the nexus between EAID and ROE. The study cannot confirm the negative moderating variable of the duality of the CEO position in the relationship. The research gives implications for improving financial performance with increased EAID and some future research directions.