bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiences of and treatment preferences for insomnia in autistic adults: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Nijhof Dewy , Melville Craig , Rydzewska Ewelina , Pavlopoulou Georgia , Meehan Lily , Gardani Maria
Published: February 2024

Insomnia and insomnia symptoms are frequent experiences of autistic people resulting in pronounced daytime effects and poor quality of life. This study employed an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis approach to explore lived experiences of autistic adults with insomnia, perspectives on current available interventions and future treatment preferences. Twelve participants (aged 21–48 years old) were interviewed following screening for insomnia, using the Sleep Condition Indicator (scores ranged from 1–12; cut off > 16). Each interview was analysed individually developing Personal Experiential Themes for each case, which were then mapped across cases based on identified patterns and connections. Results yielded rich personal accounts and identified two Group Experiential Themes: “The Night is Friendlier” and “It Doesn’t Really Work for Me”. Participants described experiences with sleeplessness throughout their adult lives and often since childhood. They discussed how the night time offers them a more relaxed and safe space to freely behave as they wish. Advice and interventions were viewed by participants via the prism of underlying social issues, such as autism acceptance and trust, and how these structures can affect participants’ experiences with insomnia, help seeking and effectiveness of current interventions. Our results highlight the need for inclusion of autistic people in insomnia research through co-production and co-creation as well as clinical practice and delivery. This is the first study to integrate perspectives and experiences of autistic people towards insomnia and sleep-related advice by health care professionals. Findings are discussed in relation to theoretical and practical implications, as well as directions for future research.
Optimal PMU placement in the Southern Cameroon Interconnected Grid considering the effect of a group of ZIBs for complete obervability and dynamic stability
Authors: Adolphe MOULUM Philippe , Jacques MANDENG Jean , Hubert KOM Charles
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a solution for optimal PMU placement in the Southern Cameroon Interconnected grid (SIG) is proposed in response to a problem of dynamic stability in the network. In this power system, the monitoring of the parameters is ensured so far by the SCADA, a technology that gives unsynchronized measurements and whose state estimation of the grid is inconsistent. Furthermore, a scan rate of data makes the SCADA system inefficient for measuring the dynamic and transient behaviour occurring in the power grid. Present study uses the method of integer linear programming (ILP) considering the effect of a group of zero-injection buses (ZIBs). Then, a comparative analysis of our results is made with those of the algorithms of other existing optimization methods in order to evaluate the performance of the applied method from the viewpoint of the number of PMUs, the number of buses observable from one or more nodes, and the system observability redundancy index (SORI). The different results obtained through MATLAB 2020a clearly show that considering the effect of a group of ZIBs, the ILP method presents the most optimal solution with a number of 10 PMUs installed on the buses 5, 8, 10, 11, 13, 16, 25, 28, 33 and 39, with a complete observation of the SIG. This result is validated insofar as 50% of the buses obtained (5, 8, 11, 33 and 39) are found with all the other comparative methods. In addition, buses 5, 8, 10, 11, 13, 16, 39 represent the dominant interconnection substations of the SIG, bus 33 also being a dominant bus in the Area 3 of the SIG.
Identifikasi Urban Heat Island di Kawasan Tepian Selokan Mataram Yogyakarta
Authors: Haksama Ringga Jalu , Feriadi Henry
Published: February 2024

Title: Identification of Urban Heat Island in Yogyakarta's Selokan Mataram Riverbank Area

This research aims to identify the Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomenon in the Selokan Mataram riverbank area, which manifests traces of human life in the Anthropocene era. Selokan Mataram is ten kilometers long and has various regional characteristics formed spontaneously from several functions and typologies of areas that continue to develop. An area with low population and low-density built-up land, or rural, has a low surface temperature compared to an area with high population and high-density built-up land, or urban. This difference in air temperature is theoretically supposed to occur. Even research in several similar articles in other countries has been proven and has been a concern. In the context of the study object in Mataram Sewer, some results follow the theory and similarities to similar studies. Specifically, the difference in air temperature recorded in the early morning reached 2,35°C in the early morning and 4,55°C in the afternoon.
Upaya Kampung Beting untuk Mencapai Ketangguhan terhadap Bencana Alam dan Sosial Berbasis Sistem Kekerabatan dan Gender
Authors: Mandayu Claudia Olla , Wiyatiningsih
Published: February 2024

Title: The Efforts of Kampung Beting to Achieve Resilience to Natural and Social Disaster Based on Kinship System and Gender

Kampung Beting in Pontianak, West Kalimantan, is an informal settlement area formed spontaneously in a community. This village has existed since establishing the Kadriyah Palace of the Pontianak Sultanate in 1771. Over time, Kampung Beting has changed from being used as a trading center to an informal settlement inhabited by migrants. Various problems accompany this development, including environmental sanitation problems that trigger natural disasters such as floods and social problems, especially crime in the settlement environment. This research aims to find out the resilience strategy of the Kampung Beting community in realizing a resilient environment against natural and social disasters based on the kinship system and gender. The research uses a descriptive qualitative method with content analysis, which discusses data using relevant theories to the research objectives. Data were obtained through field observations and interviews with the Kadriyah Palace tourism manager and the Kapuas River tourism cafe manager. The respondents were selected based on their knowledge of Kampung Beting and the tourist café business.  The results showed that the resilience of Kampung Beting in facing natural and social disasters was carried out through community adaptation to the environmental conditions of flood-prone homes due to poor sanitation and social inequality due to the increasing poverty rate.
Russian Philosophy on the Problem of War and Peace and Intercultural Dialogue
Authors: Demenchonok Edward
Published: February 2024

This article analyzes the contribution of Russian philosophy to the humanistic tradition of promoting dialogical relations and peace. It highlights the peaceful significance of Leo Tolstoy’s ethics of nonviolence, Vladimir Solovyov’s concept of omniunity, and Mikhail Bakhtin’s dialogical philosophy. Dialogue is conceived not only as communication but also as a metaphysics of personality and meaning and as dialogical relationships at the intersubjective, social, and intercultural levels. These ideas were developed in contemporary intercultural philosophy both in Russia and Latin America. The article also analyzes the obstacles to dialogical and peaceful relations, aggravated by hegemonic geopolitics. The rise of global consciousness and anti-war movements led to the end of the Cold War in 1990 and created opportunities for a positive transformation of societies and the international system. But these opportunities were torpedoed by the neoconservative “revolution” and the U.S. policy of global hegemony in a unipolar world, triggering a new Cold War and the arms race, which threaten the future of humanity. This policy resulted in NATO’s hybrid proxy war in Ukraine, which sought to inflict a “strategic defeat” on Russia. But countries that do not want to be dominated are striving for an alternative, multipolar world of independent sovereign states, based on relations of dialogue between equals and collaboration to solve social and global problems and peace. This alternative takes shape in BRICS, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and other associations, based on sovereign equality, a balance of interests, and consensus. The article thus highlights the role of intercultural philosophy in promoting cultural diversity and dialogical relations and in developing a vision of a free, just, and peaceful world order in the future.
Sufism-Based Management for Improving Working Performance in the 4.0 Industrial Era: A Phenomenological Perspective
Authors: Suwito Suwito , Nugroho Ischak Suryo , Mualim Maulana , Sarastuti Eka Septiani
Published: February 2024

Sufism is often understood as an approach to cleansing one's soul (tazkiyat al-nafs). Its infusion to human resource management is severely underutilised. This article aims to describe the managerial experience and services of a Sufism-based institution, namely the Faculty of Tarbiyya and Teacher Training UIN Prof. K.H. Saifuddin Zuhri, Purwokerto. The faculty has implemented Sufism-based management to improve its employee performance in the industrial revolution 4.0. This paper is qualitative research with a phenomenological approach. Data are collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. Twelve key informants comprising officials, lecturers, administrative staff, and students, were invited. The data were then analysed by employing Smith's model. The finding showed that spiritually clean and healthy officials could stimulate wiser organisational behaviour, stimulate bright ideas (innovations), and shape a stronger desire to follow up on problems. This Sufism-based management supports the improvement of the service quality of the institution internally, externally, and eternally.Contribution: This study contributes to the literature on Sufism-based management in the sense of providing practical implementation of takhallī, taḥallī, and tajallī in management
Application of functional feeding groups of macroinvertebrates in highly urbanized streams
Authors: Peng Xiaoming , Cheng Xiangju , Zhu Dantong , Huang Dong
Published: February 2024

Urbanization is an inevitable process accompanying economic development. However, the rapid urbanization process is posing a threat to aquatic communities and causing disruptions to river ecosystems. In highly urbanized river ecosystems, the mechanisms of human activities on the functional feeding groups (FFGs) of macroinvertebrates remain unclear, hindering the restoration of river ecosystems. This study focuses on an urban stream called the Yangmei River in Guangzhou and investigates environmental factors and macroinvertebrates in August and November 2022 and February and May 2023. Variance analysis, principal component analysis, and hierarchical cluster analysis were employed to research the temporal and spatial characteristics of FFGs. Redundancy analysis was used to explore the environmental factors influencing FFGs. Finally, ecosystem attributes were calculated based on FFG data and ratios. The results indicate that gathering-collectors dominate in the Yangmei River, leading to a transition toward a heterotrophic river system. Simultaneously, the damaged material transportation function, weakened riparian function, and poor habitat stability all reveal the fact of partial functional degradation of the Yangmei River. This study provides valuable insights into the overall functionality of the Yangmei River and contributes theoretical support for the application of FFG methods in the ecological assessment of highly urbanized rivers.
Battery waste-derived magnetic Fe–Mn–Zn/C composites as an electro-Fenton-like catalyst for the degradation of sodium dodecyl sulfate surfactant
Authors: Ahmad Azhan , Priyadarshini Monali , Ghangrekar Makarand M. , Surampalli Rao Y.
Published: February 2024

A batch-scale electro-Fenton (EF) process was performed using graphite anode and waste battery-based Fe -Mn -Zn/C electrocatalyst coated on low-cost graphite felt cathode. The effectiveness of the EF's performance was evident with around 83.9 + 4.1% removal of 20 mg/L of sodium-dodecyl sulfate surfactant (SDS) at an optimum current density (CD) of 5.0 mA/cm2, Na2SO4 of 0.05 M, initial pH of 7.2, and electrolysis time of 180 min. Moreover, nearly 1.78-fold more removal of SDS was achieved in EF than in the electro-oxidation process operated without any catalyst. The operating cost of 0.35 $ of per m3 per order was needed to treat SDS wastewater. The remediation of SDS follows pseudo-first-order kinetics with a rate constant of 0.0095 min−1. Additionally, 90.3 + 2.1% of SDS and 57 + 2.6% of total organic carbon (TOC) removal was attained during 240 min of treatment time in secondary treated real wastewater; hence, additional 60 min of treatment time is required for effectively treating real wastewater than synthetic wastewater. Thus, EF is effective with battery waste-derived magnetic catalyst for treating wastewater containing SDS, which can lead to achieving sustainable environmental goals.
LEI DE ACESSO À INFORMAÇÃO NOS CANAIS DE INFORMAÇÃO ONLINE DA UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DA PARAÍBA
Authors: Silva Edcleyton Bruno Fernandes , Araújo Claudialyne da Silva , Silva Gabriella Gouveia da
Published: February 2024

A informação tem influenciado as grandes áreas do conhecimento desde o início dos tempos. A ampliação do seu acesso juntamente com a transparência pública contribui para fortalecer o controle social, permitindo, também, melhorias na gestão pública. Este artigo teve como objetivo analisar práticas de transparência pública nos canais online da Universidade Federal da Paraíba sob a ótica das considerações da Lei de Acesso à Informação apresentadas pelo Guia de Transparência Ativa da Controladoria Geral da União para órgãos e entidades do Poder Executivo Federal. O estudo tem abordagem qualitativa e foi desenvolvido a partir de uma pesquisa documental, para identificar elementos que apontam como se apresentam as atuais práticas de transparência nos sítios eletrônicos da UFPB. A análise permitiu a verificação do atendimento aos critérios estabelecidos pelo guia.  Foram analisados, também, os relatórios da instituição dos últimos cinco anos de atividades do Sistema de Informação ao Cidadão. Com o resultado, verificou-se que a instituição cumpre total ou parcialmente as determinações da legislação, levando em consideração o Guia de Transparência Ativa.
Changes in Germination Parameters, Growth and Development of Three Cultivars of Corn Seedlings under Various Aqueous Extracts of Mallow
Authors: Khoshkharam Mehdi , Shahrajabian Mohamad Hesam , Sun Wenli
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Allelopathy related to a positive or negative impacts on one type of plant, by a chemical produced by another type of plant such as weeds, and different kinds of chemicals are hydroxamic acids, phenolics, and short-chain fatty acids. The potential allelopathic impacts of weeds is directly associated to the plan species used, as well as to the concentration of the aqueous extract available in the environment.

Methods:

The present research manuscript attempts to find and identify the allelopathic interaction of aquatic extracts from dry shoots and seeds of mallow (Malva sylvestris L.) on germination, seed-ling growth and development of three cultivars of maize. Maize seeds (Zea mays L.) were obtained as seed material: three maize seed cultivars were KSC 704 (Cultivar 1), KSC 500 (Cultivar 2), and KSC 302 (Cultivar 3). The aqueous extracts of mallow shoots and seed, in concentration of 1, 3, 5%, were made from the dried and crumbled above-ground plant parts. The influence of plant dosage was significant on seedling vigour index (SVI), coefficient of the rate of germination (CRG), total germi-nation (T50), germination energy (GE), mean germination time (MGT), germination index (GI), in-hibition percentage (IP), fresh mass, dry mass, relative water content (RWC), and total water content (TWC). Different plant parts had meaningful influence on SVI, GI, MGT, CRG, GE, and IP. The impacts of cultivar on T50, IP, RWC, fresh mass, dry mass and TWC were significant. Along with the increase in the concentration of allelopathic components, a decrease in the germination activity of all tested maize cultivars was observed.

Results:

The highest SVI was related to control treatment followed by one and three percentage of plant dosages. KSC 704 obtained the maximum CRG and GE, and the minimum one was related to KSC 500. Three percentage of plant dosage has obtained the highest value of CRG and GE. The maximum and the minimum T50 was related to KSC 302 and KSC 704, respectively. The lowest values of GI and MGT was related to KSC 500, and the maximum values are related to KSC 704. While the maximum IP, RWC, fresh mass, dry mass and TWC was related to KSC 704, the lowest values were achieved in utilization of KSC 500. The RWC was the highest for seedlings grown on the 5% extract.

Conclusion:

The information of this article can be useful in the conditions of the threat of maize seedlings wit the mass appearance of mallow.
In Silico Structure-based Screening of Potential Anticancer Bioactive Natural Constituents from African Natural Products
Authors: Kraim Khairedine , Boudjedir Atidel , Saihi Youcef , Chikh Fatima Zohra Oueld , Slatnia Yassira , Ferkous Fouad
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Inhibitors of topoisomerases, essential regulators of cancer development,
are promising as cancer treatments. These enzymes regulate DNA topology and eliminate topological
constraints during various biological processes, including replication, transcription, and recombination.
Nature has continually offered scientists pathways to explore the development of new drugs.
Indeed, since ancient times, various plant extracts have been utilized in treating multiple pathologies.

Objective:

It’s intriguing to diversify the therapeutic classes of natural topoisomerase 1 inhibitors.
We aimed to explore the relationship between the toxicity of certain medicinal plants in North Africa
and their anti-topoisomerase 1 enzyme activity. This investigation aims to discover potentially valuable
compounds for fighting cancer by inhibiting the Topo1 enzyme, enriching the anticancer therapeutic
class.

Methods:

This study has conducted a virtual screening of the African Natural Products Database to
identify new scaffolds as topoisomerase 1 inhibitors. Molecular docking as a structure-based drug
design approach was selected as one of the best approaches, and the complex code ID: 1K4T was
used for this purpose.

Results and Discussion:

The molecular docking of more than 5790 natural products extracted from
this database was docked into the binding site of the above-cited complex using the Modlock optimizer
and Moldock score as search and scoring function algorithms, respectively. The top-ranked
compounds have been assessed, analyzed, and compared to Topotecan and Irinotecan as reference
ligands and drugs.

Conclusion:

Consequently, the seven natural products have shown a strong affinity to topoisomerase
1 and DNA. They establish a clear link between topoisomerase 1 inhibition and the anticancer activity
of their corresponding plant extracts. Therefore, these hits are promising and serve as a base for
further development of new topoisomerase 1 inhibitors.
Breathomics Detect the Cardiovascular Disease: Delusion or Dilution of
the Metabolomic Signature
Authors: Marzoog Basheer
Published: February 2024

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be subdivided into exogenous and endogenous
categories based on their origin. Analyzing the endogenous VOCs can provide insights into
maintaining the internal organs' homeostasis. Despite the ongoing development and the current
understanding, studies have suggested a link between cardiovascular metabolic alterations
in patients with ischemic heart disease and elevated levels of ethane and isoprene detectable
through exhaled breath analysis. Conversely, patients with chronic heart failure exhibit elevated
acetone and pentane in their exhaled air. These substances originate from disturbances in the
heart tissue, including cellular and subcellular modulations. Hypothetically, ethane levels in the
exhaled breath analysis can demonstrate the severity of ischemic heart disease and, consequently,
the risk of death in the next 10 years due to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Real-time direct
mass spectrometry is the preferred method for assessing VOCs in exhaled breath analysis. The
accuracy of this analysis depends on several factors, including the selection of the relevant
breath fraction, the type of breath collection container (if used), and the pre-concentration technique.
Imaging Characteristics of Clear Cell Papillary Renal Cell Carcinoma:
Identifying the Sheep in Wolf’s Clothing
Authors: Huang Shunfa , Tang Qiying , Wu Minrong , Zhong Lianting , Lian Danlan , Ding Yuqin , Zhou Jianjun
Published: February 2024

Objective::

This study aimed to describe the characteristics of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of clear cell papillary renal
cell carcinoma (CCPRCC).

Methods::

This retrospective study comprised 27 patients diagnosed with 29 tumors of CCPRCC. The study was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee
and the requirement for the informed consent was waived. The inclusion criteria stipulated pathology-confirmed CCPRCCs with at least one
preoperative imaging examination, including CT or MRI. Two experienced radiologists independently analyzed the imaging characteristics,
including size, location, growth mode, morphology, texture, density, and enhancement pattern. Paired t-test was used to compare differences in CT
Hounsfield unit values and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) imaging between the tumor and the renal cortex.

Results::

The mean age of the 27 patients was 57.0 ± 14.2 years. Nineteen patients underwent CT, while 12 underwent MRI (There are 4 patients underwent
not only CT but also MRI). Among the cases, 26 (96%) were single, and 1 (4%) was multiple, consisting of three lesions. Out of the 29 tumors, 15
(52%) were located in the left kidney and 14 (48%) in the right kidney. The mean tumor diameter was 3.3 ± 1.7 cm. Furthermore, 19 (66%), 3
(10%), and 7 (24%) tumors were solid, cystic, mixed solid, and cystic type, respectively. The growth mode was endogenous and exogenous in 8
(28%) and 21 (72%) tumors, respectively. The tumor shape was irregular and round in 5 (17%) and 24 (83%) tumors, respectively. The CT value
of the tumor was approximately 33.2 ± 9.8 HU, which was not significantly different from that of the renal cortex(31.1 ± 6.3HU)(p = 0.343).
Furthermore, 7 (24%), 12 (41%), and 3 (10%) had calcification, cystic degeneration, and hemorrhage, respectively. In 12 tumors, hypointense and
hyperintense were predominant on T1 and T2-weighted images, respectively. The tumor capsule was found at the edge of 12 tumors. The average
ADC value of the tumor (1.54 ± 0.74 × 10−3 mm2/s) and that of the renal cortex(1.68 ± 0.63×10–3mm2 /s) was not statistically significantly different
(p = 0.260). The enhancement scanning revealed “wash-in and wash-out” enhancement in 19 (68%) tumors, continuous or progressive
enhancement in 6 (21%) tumors, and enhanced cystic wall and central separation in 3 (11%) tumors.

Conclusion::

CCPRCC occurs more likely in middle-aged and elderly individuals, and the tumor is prone to cystic degeneration, with rare bleeding and
calcification, and no obvious limitation on MRI diffusion-weighted imaging, which enhancement form performs as mainly “wash-in and washout,”
but the final diagnosis depends on histopathology.
Pemetaan Sebaran Indeks Bahaya Erosi dan Arahan Penggunaan Lahan di Sub DAS Brantas Hulu Kota Batu Berbasis Sistem Informasi Geografis
Authors: Deny Ainur Rosidin  , Ery Suhartanto  , Ussy Andawayanti
Published: February 2024

SubDAS Brantas Hulu termasuk dalam salah satu area DAS yang mengalami perubahan terhadap berkurangnya kemampuan DAS dari segi menyimpan air dan semakin besarnya laju erosi maupun sedimentasi. Terkait dengan penanganan yang akan dilakukan, perlu dilakukan adanya analisis terhadap besaran laju erosi dan sedimentasi. Studi ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui nilai indeks bahaya erosi (IBE) oleh Hammer (1981) yang merupakan salah satu parameter untuk mengukur kepekaan tanah dan lahan terhadap kemungkinan erosi yang akan terjadi. Metode MUSLE dipilih sebagai metode utama dalam penentuan laju sedimentasi dengan kombinasi Sedimen Delivery Ratio (SDR) sebagai sarana untuk mendapatkan nilai erosi ditinjau dari hasil analisis sedimentasi.  Hasil analisis menunjukkan rerata sedimentasi eksisiting adalah 22.97 mm/tahun. Sedangkan hasil IBE Eksisiting diperoleh indeks kriteria sedang (1.0 – 4.0) seluas 350.660 ha (2.19%), indeks kriteria tinggi (4.01 – 10.00) seluas 589.059 ha (3.68%) dan indeks kriteria sangat tinggi (>10.01) seluas 15053.150 ha (94.12%). Hasil dari skenario baru yang mengusung arahan penggunaan lahan berdasarkan ketentuan RLKT dan perubahan pengelolaan lahan (Faktor P) menunjukkan penurunan sedimentasi sebesar 88.30% menjadi 2.69 mm/tahun. Hasil IBE skenario baru diperoleh indeks rendah sampai tinggi (0.01 – 10.00) seluas 14820.89 ha (92.67%) dan indeks sangat tinggi (>10) seluas 1171.97 ha (7.33%). Selain itu diusulkan checkdam pada lahan skenario baru dengan IBE sangat tinggi dengan efektifitas reduksi sedimentasi sebesar 13.46%.
Analisa Indeks Kekeringan Menggunakan Metode Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) di Sub DAS Grindulu
Authors: Algadri Amanda Pinasti , Donny Harisuseno  , Sri Wahyuni
Published: February 2024

Kekeringan di Kabupaten Pacitan sering terjadi sehingga menghambat aktivitas masyarakat. Pada tahun 2019, terdapat 41 lokasi kekeringan yang tersebar di 10 kecamatan. Oleh karena itu, perlu dilakukan analisa kekeringan dan pemetaan sebarannya untuk meminimalkan dampak yang ditimbulkan. Studi ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui besarnya indeks kekeringan meteorologi dengan menggunakan metode Standarized Precipitation Index (SPI) dan memetakan sebaran wilayah terdampak kekeringan dengan bantuan ArcGIS menggunakan metode Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW). Hasil studi dengan metode SPI menunjukkan bahwa pada periode defisit 1 bulanan, kejadian terparah terjadi pada bulan Agustus 2017 dengan nilai indeks -22,90.
The influence of digital and vocational information literacy on student learning outcomes
Authors: Setiyawan Heru , Suharno Suharno , Pambudi Nugroho Agung
Published: February 2024

Vocational students are confronted by intricate demands once they graduate. Despite the considerable need for vocational graduates in the workforce, most students have a limited understanding of digital and vocational information. This study used a descriptive quantitative method to determine the influence of digital and vocational information literacy on students' learning outcomes in three vocational schools in the Sragen Regency. Cluster Random Sampling was used to select a sample of 111 students. Data on digital and vocational information literacy were collected using a questionnaire, while those on the learning outcomes were obtained from the student’s grades. The results showed that digital literacy influences vocational students’ learning outcomes with a significance of 0.000 0.05. Vocational information literacy influences the students’ learning outcomes with a significance of 0.000 0.05. Furthermore, digital and vocational information literacy simultaneously influence the students’ learning outcomes with a significance of 0.000 0.05. These results indicate the necessity to familiarize and increase the students’ literacy skills to improve learning outcomes. The results indicated that digital and vocational literacy partially and collectively influenced learning outcomes by 48.2%. Therefore, classroom instruction needs to be structured around learning models that actively stimulate the development of digital and vocational literacy skills, preparing students for workplace competitions. Consequently, teachers should consistently implement learning strategies that create a meaningful connection between the school environment and the realities of the professional world.
The appraisal model of remedial and enrichment activities integrated with the independent curriculum in vocational field
Authors: Suhendar Suhendar , Yusro Muhammad , Minghat Asnul Dahar , Sutianah Cucu , Setiadi Bayu Rahmat , Mahmudah Fitri Nur
Published: February 2024

Implementing remedial and enrichment strategies followed by modeling the weight of the appraisal is the goal to be achieved in this study. The ASSURE model in this study has been used to develop an appraisal model for remedial and enrichment activities integrated with the independent curriculum in the vocational field. The results showed that the peer tutoring strategy among students could optimize remedial and enrichment outcomes. The students have shown their ability in independent and collaborative learning. In remedial and enrichment activities, groups of enrichment students have been directed to help their friends to be successful in remedial. Students' success in the remedial process is the success of enriching other students and vice versa. Each student has received an appreciation of the value according to his effort. The progress of remedial students is 8% to 82%, with an average of 10%. This progress forms the basis for determining the final score for the remedial, intermediate, and enrichment groups as tutors. The difference between the remedial and enrichment appraisal weights was determined using mathematical model 1. The final score of students who become tutors is determined using the mathematical model 3. The three mathematical models above can calculate remedial, enrichment, and tutor results. The use of this model helps teachers or lecturers to be more objective in giving grades. Lecturers' appraisal of student learning outcomes has been carried out in a transparent, fair, and accountable following the differences in the potential competencies of each student. Students have followed the learning process, the assessment process has been carried out properly, the teacher's documentation is complete, and the teacher is more confident.
Internet Use and Effects on Mental Well-being During the Lockdown Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Younger Versus Older Adults: Observational Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yu Chou Chuen , Tou Nien Xiang , Low James Alvin
Published: February 2024

Background

Majority of individuals, including both younger and older adults, had to adapt to digital means to cope with lockdown measures and pandemic-induced lifestyle changes during the COVID-19 pandemic. While internet accessibility was beneficial during the pandemic, existing literature suggests that excessive use could lead to the rise of problematic internet use in adolescents and younger adults. However, the effects on older adults remain unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to examine differences in internet use during the lockdown phase of the COVID-19 pandemic and explore how age differences in mental health could be explained by time spent on the internet.

Methods

A door-to-door survey of a nationally representative sample of 602 adults in Singapore was carried out using computer-assisted personal interviewing during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic (October to November 2020). Participants were categorized into younger (21-59 years old) and older (60 years or above) age groups. We assessed self-reported measures of depression, anxiety, and stress; psychosocial adaptability; ability to perform essential activities; social support; health status; digital media use patterns, and time spent on the internet. Procedures complied with existing safe distancing measures.

Results

Older adults reported being less able to use digital platforms to meet needs and acquire information updates compared with younger adults during the lockdown period of the pandemic. Older adults spent significantly less time on the internet for both work and personal uses per day (mean 146.00 min, SD 9.18 min) compared with younger adults (mean 433.27 min, SD 14.32 min). Significant age differences in depression, anxiety, and stress were found, with younger adults showing poorer mental health. Mediation analysis showed that age differences in depression, anxiety, and stress were partially explained by time spent on the internet. These variables together explained 43%, 40%, and 40% of the variances in depression, anxiety, and stress scores, respectively.

Conclusions

The findings showed that younger adults spent significantly more time on the internet compared with older adults during the lockdown phase of the pandemic. They were also ahead in their ability to use digital resources to meet needs and engage socially compared with older adults. Despite this, the mental health of younger adults was poor, and this was partially accounted for by the amount of time spent on the internet. Since past research suggests that excessive time spent on the internet could lead to disordered use, the benefits brought by digital technologies could have been attenuated during the lockdown phase of the pandemic. Considering this potential negative effect, it is imperative to educate both young and old adults in the appropriate use of information and communication technology.
Limitations of the Cough Sound-Based COVID-19 Diagnosis Artificial Intelligence Model and its Future Direction: Longitudinal Observation Study
Authors: Kim Jina , Choi Yong Sung , Lee Young Joo , Yeo Seung Geun , Kim Kyung Won , Kim Min Seo , Rahmati Masoud , Yon Dong Keon , Lee Jinseok
Published: February 2024

Background

The outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019 has necessitated the rapid and accurate detection of COVID-19 to manage patients effectively and implement public health measures. Artificial intelligence (AI) models analyzing cough sounds have emerged as promising tools for large-scale screening and early identification of potential cases.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of using cough sounds as a diagnostic tool for COVID-19, considering the unique acoustic features that differentiate positive and negative cases. We investigated whether an AI model trained on cough sound recordings from specific periods, especially the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, were applicable to the ongoing situation with persistent variants.

Methods

We used cough sound recordings from 3 data sets (Cambridge, Coswara, and Virufy) representing different stages of the pandemic and variants. Our AI model was trained using the Cambridge data set with subsequent evaluation against all data sets. The performance was analyzed based on the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC) across different data measurement periods and COVID-19 variants.

Results

The AI model demonstrated a high AUC when tested with the Cambridge data set, indicative of its initial effectiveness. However, the performance varied significantly with other data sets, particularly in detecting later variants such as Delta and Omicron, with a marked decline in AUC observed for the latter. These results highlight the challenges in maintaining the efficacy of AI models against the backdrop of an evolving virus.

Conclusions

While AI models analyzing cough sounds offer a promising noninvasive and rapid screening method for COVID-19, their effectiveness is challenged by the emergence of new virus variants. Ongoing research and adaptations in AI methodologies are crucial to address these limitations. The adaptability of AI models to evolve with the virus underscores their potential as a foundational technology for not only the current pandemic but also future outbreaks, contributing to a more agile and resilient global health infrastructure.
Verification in the Early Stages of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Sentiment Analysis of Japanese Twitter Users (Preprint)
Authors: Ueda Ryuichiro , Han Feng , Zhang Hongjian , Aoki Tomohiro , Ogasawara Katsuhiko
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic prompted global behavioral restrictions, impacting public mental health. Sentiment analysis, a tool for assessing individual and public emotions from text data, gained importance amid the pandemic. This study focuses on Japan’s early public health interventions during COVID-19, utilizing sentiment analysis in infodemiology to gauge public sentiment on social media regarding these interventions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate shifts in public emotions and sentiments before and after the first state of emergency was declared in Japan. By analyzing both user-generated tweets and retweets, we aim to discern patterns in emotional responses during this critical period.

METHODS

We conducted a day-by-day analysis of Twitter (now known as X) data using 4,894,009 tweets containing the keywords “corona,” “COVID-19,” and “new pneumonia” from March 23 to April 21, 2020, approximately 2 weeks before and after the first declaration of a state of emergency in Japan. We also processed tweet data into vectors for each word, employing the Fuzzy-C-Means (FCM) method, a type of cluster analysis, for the words in the sentiment dictionary. We set up 7 sentiment clusters (negative: anger, sadness, surprise, disgust; neutral: anxiety; positive: trust and joy) and conducted sentiment analysis of the tweet groups and retweet groups.

RESULTS

The analysis revealed a mix of positive and negative sentiments, with “joy” significantly increasing in the retweet group after the state of emergency declaration. Negative emotions, such as “worry” and “disgust,” were prevalent in both tweet and retweet groups. Furthermore, the retweet group had a tendency to share more negative content compared to the tweet group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study conducted sentiment analysis of Japanese tweets and retweets to explore public sentiments during the early stages of COVID-19 in Japan, spanning 2 weeks before and after the first state of emergency declaration. The analysis revealed a mix of positive (joy) and negative (anxiety, disgust) emotions. Notably, joy increased in the retweet group after the emergency declaration, but this group also tended to share more negative content than the tweet group. This study suggests that the state of emergency heightened positive sentiments due to expectations for infection prevention measures, yet negative information also gained traction. The findings propose the potential for further exploration through network analysis.
Multiple Perspectives on the Adoption of SMART Technologies for Improving Care of Older People: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Elavsky Steriani , Knapova Lenka , Janiš Kamil , Cimler Richard , Kuhnova Jitka , Cernicky Tomas
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Despite the ever-increasing offering of SMART technologies (ie, computer-controlled devices acting intelligently and capable of monitoring, analyzing or reporting), a wide gap exists between the development of new technological innovations and their adoption in everyday care for older adults.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the barriers and concerns related to the adoption of SMART technologies among different groups of stakeholders.

METHODS

Data from 4 sources were used: semistructured in-person or internet-based interviews with professional caregivers (n=12), structured email interviews with experts in the area of aging (n=9), a web-based survey of older adults (>55 years) attending the Virtual University of the Third Age (n=369), and a case study on the adoption of new technology by an older adult care facility.

RESULTS

Although all stakeholders noted the potential of SMART technologies to improve older adult care, multiple barriers to their adoption were identified. Caregivers perceived older adults as disinterested or incompetent in using technology, reported preferring known strategies over new technologies, and noted own fears of using technology. Experts viewed technologies as essential but expressed concerns about cost, low digital competency of older adults, and lack of support or willingness to implement technologies in older adult care. Older adults reported few concerns overall, but among the mentioned concerns were lack of ability or interest, misuse of data, and limited usefulness (in specific subgroups or situations). In addition, older adults’ ratings of the usefulness of different technologies correlated with their self-rating of digital competency (r=0.258; P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Older adults appeared to have more positive views of various technologies than professional caregivers; however, their concerns varied by the type of technology. Lack of competence and lack of support were among the common themes, suggesting that educationally oriented programs for both older adults and their caregivers should be pursued.
An Individual Music Intervention for Adults With Intellectual Disabilities and Challenging Behavior: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Smeets Gerianne , Volkers Karin , Scherder Erik , Moonen Xavier
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) are more likely to have problems with executive functioning (EF) and challenging behavior (CB), which are negatively linked to well-being. Among clinical populations, music interventions have been shown to improve various outcome measures, such as CB and EF. Until now, no randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been conducted to examine the effectiveness of an individual music intervention for adults with ID and CB.

OBJECTIVE

The study aims to identify the effect and feasibility of an individual music intervention compared with care-as-usual for people with ID and CB.

METHODS

In this study, a 2-group RCT with a pretest, posttest, and follow-up assessment after 8 weeks is presented. Participants of the music intervention condition will receive 16 individual music sessions within 8 to 10 weeks. The music intervention will be guided by a manual for music workers, in which every session will have a different focus (introduction, emotions, different EF, and end performance). Participants receiving care as usual will function as a control group. After the research is finished, they will be offered a budget, which they can spend on musical activities or musical instruments as they wish. Assessments will include caregiver rating scales and self-report questionnaires and tests, which will assess outcome measures of CB, well-being, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and 4 domains of EF. A process evaluation will be conducted after the completion of the study, which entails the analysis of data on multiple aspects of the intervention and the study overall.

RESULTS

Enrollment commenced in July 2021, and data collection ended in May 2023. A total of 97 participants were recruited, with 44 participants allocated to the intervention group and 53 allocated to the control group. Data will be analyzed after this protocol has been accepted for publication.

CONCLUSIONS

Because there are currently no published RCTs of an individual music intervention for adults with ID and CB, this study will provide insight into the effectiveness and experiences of an individual music intervention for this target group.

CLINICALTRIAL

International Clinical Trials Registry Platform NL8482; http://tinyurl.com/4565s5pd

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/52497
Exploring Opportunities and Challenges for the Spread, Scale-Up, and Sustainability of mHealth Apps for Self-Management of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in the Netherlands: Citizen Science Approach (Preprint)
Authors: van Leersum Catharina Margaretha , Bults Marloes , Siebrand Egbert , Olthuis Theodorus Johannes Josef , Bekhuis Robin Enya Marije , Konijnendijk Annemieke Ariënne Johanneke , den Ouden Marjolein Elisabeth Maria
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Technologies evolve at a breakneck pace, and the success of mobile health (mHealth) for people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) depends on whether health care professionals, care management, government regulators, and consumers will adopt the technology as a viable solution to enhance patient self-management.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we explored the challenges of the implementation of mHealth apps in care for patients with T2DM and determined to what extent these challenges complicate the dissemination, limit scale-up, and influence the sustainability of technological interventions for patients with T2DM.

METHODS

The nonadoption, abandonment, and challenges to scale-up, spread, and sustainability (NASSS) framework served as the basis for our study. The 7 domains of the NASSS framework were explored with a citizen science approach using questionnaires, semistructured in-depth interviews, and focus groups together with patients with T2DM, care professionals, technology developers, policy officers, and a patient organization.

RESULTS

Regarding the domain “condition,” being aware of their condition and changing lifestyle were crucial for patients with T2DM to get to grips with their life. The rapid development of health apps for T2DM was highlighted in the domain “technology.” Users should be aware of these apps and know how to use them. The domain “value proposition” included the patient perspective and elaborated on personal values, as well as care professionals who focus on personalized care and pressure on health care. Regarding the “adopters,” it is crucial to know who needs to use and introduce the apps. Responsibility, a shared vision, and resistance among care professionals were mentioned as important determinants for “organization.” Finally, the domain “wider system” showed the importance of involving multiple institutes, care guidelines, and reimbursements.

CONCLUSIONS

This study investigated the implementation of mHealth apps in an early stage of the implementation process. Key stakeholders were involved, who attributed to the possibilities and limitations of the implementation. It is crucial to have a clear vision from an organizational perspective and specific prerequisites for implementation strategies at micro, meso, and macro levels. Essential strategies at the national level include guidelines for regulations, privacy, and security; the integration of mHealth into T2DM care guidelines; and sufficient reimbursement by health insurers.