bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of coupling machine learning techniques and linear Bias scaling for optimizing 10-daily flow simulations, Swat River Basin
Authors: Syed Sibtain , Syed Zain , Mahmood Prince , Haider Sajjad , Khan Firdos , Syed Muhammad Talha , Syed Saqlain
Published: May 2023

Accurate hydrological simulations comply with the water (sixth) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study investigates the utility of ANN and SVR, as well as the post-simulation bias treatment of these simulations at Swat River basin, Pakistan. For this, climate variables were lag adjusted for the first time, then cross-correlated with the flow to identify the most associative delay time. In sensitivity analysis, seven combinations were selected as input with suitable hyperparameters. For SVR, grid search cross-validation determined the optimal set of hyper-parameters, while for ANN, neurons and hidden layers were optimized by trial and error. We ran model by using optimized hyperparameter configurations and input combinations. In comparison to SVRs (Root mean square error (RMSE) 34.2; mean absolute error (MAE) 3.0; CC 0.91) values, respectively, ANN fits the observations better than SVR with (RMSE 11.9; MAE 1.14; CC 0.99). Linear bias-corrected simulations greatly improved ANN performance (RMSE 3.98; MAE 0.625; CC 0.99), while the improvement was slight in the case of SVR (RMSE 35; MAE 0.58; CC 0.92). On seasonal scale, bias-corrected simulations remedy low- and high-flow seasonal discrepancies. Flow duration analysis results reveal deviation at low- and high-flow conditions by models, which were then reconciled by applying bias corrections.
Organics and inorganics in flow back and produced water from shale gas operations: treatment and identification of glycols using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Kim Seongyun , Omur-Ozbek Pinar , Carlson Ken , Lee Sangchul , Kim Eun-Sik , Hwang Min-Jin , Son Ji-Hee , Kang Woochul
Published: May 2023

This study investigated the efficiency of different water treatment processes in reducing propylene glycol (PG), ethylene glycol (EG), ethylene glycol monobutyl ether (EGME), and other water quality parameters in flow back/produced water from a shale gas well operation. EG, PG, and EGME are the most widely used chemicals in hydraulic fracturing; however, limited investigations on these chemicals have been performed to date. Granular activated carbon (GAC) removed PG and EG to acceptable drinking water levels. Electrocoagulation was effective at decreasing turbidity (85%) as well as total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) (80%), while ultrafiltration removed 90% of the turbidity and TPH. GAC further removed approximately 95% of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX), total organic carbon, dissolved organic carbon, and glycols but only removed 16% of total dissolved solids (TDS). Reverse osmosis removed approximately 90% of TDS (2,550 mg/L); however, this level remained high for certain purposes. Although some water quality parameters remained above the reusability threshold for most purposes, the treated water could be used on tolerant plants and permeable soils. In-depth knowledge and understanding of flow back/produced water quality characteristics, pre and post water treatment processes, can improve water treatment process strategies, reduce wastewater discharge, and improve treated water's reusability.
Norfloxacin removal by ultraviolet-activated sodium percarbonate and sodium hypochlorite: process optimization and anion effect
Authors: Yazici Guvenc Senem , Turk Oruc Kaan , Can-Güven Emine , Garazade Narmin , Varank Gamze
Published: May 2023

The efficiency of UV-activated sodium percarbonate (SPC) and sodium hypochlorite (SHC) in Norfloxacin (Norf) removal from an aqueous solution was assessed. Control experiments were conducted and the synergistic effect of the UV-SHC and UV-SPC processes were 0.61 and 2.89, respectively. According to the first-order reaction rate constants, the process rates were ranked as UV-SPC > SPC > UV and UV-SHC > SHC > UV. Central composite design was applied to determine the optimum operating conditions for maximum Norf removal. Under optimum conditions (UV-SPC: 1 mg/L initial Norf, 4 mM SPC, pH 3, 50 min; UV-SHC: 1 mg/L initial Norf, 1 mM SHC, pH 7, 8 min), the removal yields for the UV-SPC and UV-SHC were 71.8 and 72.1%, respectively. HCO3−, Cl−, NO3−, and SO42− negatively affected both processes. UV-SPC and UV-SHC processes were effective for Norf removal from aqueous solution. Similar removal efficiencies were obtained with both processes; however, this removal efficiency was achieved in a much shorter time and more economically with the UV-SHC process.
COVID-19 related Complications during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Abdullah Marzoog Basheer
Published: May 2023

Background:

The topic of COVID-19 (coronavirus disease)-associated complications during pregnancy is poorly postulated and remains an area that requires elucidation for the underlying pathophysiology mechanism in order to evaluate a new therapeutic strategy and optimize current therapies.

Aim:

The study aimed to assess the proportion of associated complications with COVID-19 and the underlying pathophysiology in pregnant women.

Methods:

The MedLine and Embase databases were searched for studies relevant to the study topic.

Results:

Preterm delivery and C-section have been found to be the most frequently reported complications. Approximately, 28.55% of pregnant women with symptomatic COVID-19 have been reported to require a C-section and 8.8% preterm delivery. In addition, anxiety and depression have also been frequently reported in 57% and 37% of pregnant women, respectively.

Conclusion:

Symptomatic pregnant women with COVID-19 have a high risk of preterm labor, mortality and morbidity rates, and C-section requirements. The underlying pathophysiology of COVID-19-associated complications during pregnancy includes homeostatic disturbances of the immune system, pulmonary system, and hemostatic system. In addition to endothelial dysfunction, excessive immune response, coagulopathy, hypoxemia, and hypotension are involved in the pathogenesis that negatively affects neonates' health outcomes.
HSP90-regulated CHIP/TRIM21/p21 Axis Involves in the Senescence of
Osteosarcoma Cells
Authors: Gao Xuejuan , Xu Gui-Sheng , Lin Yu-Ning , Zeng Qingzhong , Li Zhi-Peng , Xiao Teng , Ye Yong-Sheng , Li Zhen-Yan
Published: May 2023

Background:

OS is the most frequent malignant bone tumor with a poor prognosis.
TRIM21 has been reported to play a critical role in OS by regulating the expression of the TXNIP/p21
axis and inhibiting the senescence of OS cells.

Aims:

Investigation of the molecular mechanism of tripartite motif 21 (TRIM21) in osteosarcoma (OS)
would shed light on the understanding of the pathogenesis of OS.

Objective:

This study aimed to explore the mechanism regulating the protein stability of TRIM21 in
the process of OS senescence.

Methods:

Human U2 OS cells were used to establish stable cells overexpressing TRIM21 (induced by
Dox) or knocking down TRIM21. The co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP) assay was used to examine the
interaction between TRIM21 and HSP90. Immunofluorescence (IF) assay was used to observe
colocalization in OS cells. Western blot analysis was applied to detect the protein expression, and
quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) assay was used to test the mRNA expression of corresponding
genes. SA-β-gal staining was used to evaluate OS senescence.

Results:

In this study, we verified the interaction between HSP90 and TRIM21 using a co-IP assay.
Knockdown or inhibition of HSP90 with its inhibitor 17-AAG accelerated the degradation of TRIM21
by the proteasome in OS cells. CHIP E3 ligase mediated this degradation of TRIM21, with the
knockdown of CHIP rescuing the downregulation of TRIM21 induced by 17-AAG. TRIM21 inhibited
OS senescence and downregulated the expression of senescence marker p21, while CHIP exhibited an
opposite regulatory role on p21 expression.

Conclusion:

Taken together, our results demonstrated that HSP90 is responsible for the stabilization
of TRIM21 in OS and that the CHIP/TRIM21/p21 axis controlled by HSP90 affects the senescence of
OS cells.
Protein Engineering, a Robust Tool to Engineer Novel Functions in Protein
Authors: Nancy  , Lakhawat Sudarshan Singh , Chandel Sanjeev , Jaswal Sunil Kumar , Sharma Pushpender Kumar
Published: May 2023

Designing effective diagnostics, biotherapeutics, and biocatalysts are a few interesting
potential outcomes of protein engineering. Despite being just a few decades old, the discipline of de
novo protein designing has provided a foundation for remarkable outcomes in the pharmaceuticals and
enzyme industries. The technologies that will have the biggest impact on current protein therapeutics
include engineered natural protein variants, Fc fusion protein, and antibody engineering. Furthermore,
designing protein scaffolds can be used in developing next-generation antibodies and in transplanting
active sites in the enzyme. The article highlights the important tools and techniques used in protein
engineering and their application in the engineering of enzymes and therapeutic proteins. This review
further sheds light on the engineering of superoxide dismutase, an enzyme responsible for catalyzing
the conversion of superoxide radicals to oxygen and hydrogen peroxide by catalyzing a redox reaction
at the metal center while concurrently oxidizing and reducing superoxide free radicals.
A Synoptic Update on Smart Lipid Nanocarrier: Cubosomes, and their
Design Development, and Recent Challenges
Authors: Sreelaya Putrevu , Bhattacharya Sankha
Published: May 2023

Cubosomes are a kind of nanoparticle that is distinct from solid particles in that they are
liquid crystalline particles formed by self-assembly of a certain surfactant with a current water
ratio. Their unique properties as a result of their microstructure are useful in practical applications.
Cubosomes, specifically lyotropic nonlamellar liquid crystalline nanoparticles (LCNs) have gained
acceptance as a medication delivery strategy for cancer and other disorders. Cubosomes are produced
by the fragmentation of a solid-like phase into smaller particles. Because of its particular
microstructure, which is physiologically safe and capable of allowing for the controlled release of
solubilized compounds, cubic phase particles are garnering considerable attention. These cubosomes
are highly adaptable carriers with promising theranostic efficacy because they can be given
orally, topically, or intravenously. Throughout its operation, the drug delivery system regulates the
loaded anticancer bioactive's target selectivity and drug release characteristics. This compilation
examines recent advances and obstacles in the development and application of cubosomes to treat
various cancers, as well as the challenges of turning it into a potential nanotechnological invasion.
Nanomaterials used in Flexible Electronics: Recent Trends and Future
Approaches
Authors: Wagholikar Smita , Mulay Preeti , Wagholikar Omkar , Mulay Varnika
Published: May 2023

The latest research in soft electronics reveals a substantial demand for devices that can fold, bend and stretch to suit the requirements of technological advances. Cellulose, silk, and elastomers are employed in making biodegradable, environmentally benign substrates that accommodate nanofibers, nanoparticles, nanotubes, graphene, and biomaterials in their nano-form. Flexible materials can hold circuits and sensors and can substitute conventional substrates. Transient electronics, e-skin, and biosensors are the most sought-after in medical technology, sensors, energy storage devices, and wearables. These stretchable materials lead the way for developing eco-friendly and sustainable technology to attain sustainable development goals. This research work discusses nano species imbibed in printable and flexible electronics. An analysis of the documents extracted from the Scopus database using VOSviewer and patents in the domain of flexible electronics are presented along with altmetrics.
Increasing the efficiency and flexibility of laboratory testing with virtual instrument techniques
Authors: Pawliczek R.
Published: May 2023

Abstract. This paper presents an upgrade of the functionality and modernization of the laboratory testing process using virtual instruments. A case study of airflow laboratory stand for air velocity profile determination and the fatigue testing on the MZGS100 stand shows the applications, where standard sensors and transducers are used as measuring devices. The article focuses mainly on DAQ (Data Acquisition) measurement techniques, where at present the USB communication method is very widely used. The main advantage of the system is the so-called open user interface, which is software developed according to the researcher's own algorithms. The developed software is just this virtual instrument, and the graphical programming environment is used as an effective tool to build the program. Virtual instrumentation based laboratory equipment present cost-effective, compact, and user-friendly human-machine interfaces for the measurement and laboratory equipment control.
Managerial Accompaniment And Financial Management For Business Sustainability In Dinoyo Ceramic Village
Authors: Efani Anthon
Published: May 2023

Dinoyo Village is a ceramic craft center in Malang City. The cultural potential of the Dinoyo community, especially ceramic craftsmen, which has survived to this day is one of the basics in the effort to preserve the culture itself. The objectives of the service activities of the Serving Doctoral Program include: (1) integrating the performance of Higher Education (University of Brawijaya), with Dinoyo Ceramic Village to improve the sustainability of Dinoyo Ceramic Village, (2) creating business sustainability, through business management training and financial management, (3) assistance in website development, (4) increasing the competitiveness of Dinoyo Ceramic Village products, through product branding and educational tourism branding, (5) utilizing potential water sources as supporting educational tourism, (6) strengthening the regional innovation system of Dinoyo Ceramic Village through rights services. copyright, (7) increasing the role of Brawijaya University in the development of the campus area by involving students. Through managerial assistance in this service program, it is hoped that Dinoyo Ceramic Village will be able to become a sustainable MSME business. Sustainability in question is not only the sustainability of productivity but also sustainability as a literacy and preservation center in Malang City which has legal protection for the products or works produced. In turn, the Ceramic Village can become a cultural and literacy icon in Malang City.
Quality of Administrative Services and Campus Infrastructure on Student Satisfaction with Student Loyalty as Intervening Variables at The Faculty of Administrative Science Universitas Brawijaya
Authors: Naulanda Nadya
Published: May 2023

Student satisfaction is important for some students besides student loyalty which can be influenced by several factors, one of which is the quality of service and infrastructure which students are also expected to create a good campus atmosphere. This study aims to determine whether the quality of service and infrastructure has an effect on student satisfaction through student loyalty at the Faculty of Administrative Sciences, Universitas Brawijaya Malang. This research method is a quantitative method using SPSS 22 for Windows. The type of data collection used is primary data in the form of data collected through filling out questionnaires distributed to 100 students using a research scale, namely the Likert scale. The data analysis used is path analysis. , validity test, reliability test, classical assumption test, Sobel test, F test, and t test. The results of this study indicate that the value of t count (2.115 and 2.403 ) > t table (1.984), F arithmetic value (60.685 and 25.923) > F table (3.09). This means that either simultaneously or partially there is a significant influence on service quality and infrastructure has a direct influence on student satisfaction, service quality and infrastructure have a direct influence on student loyalty. Student loyalty as an intervening variable can mediate the indirect effect of service quality and infrastructure on student satisfaction.
Human Resources Development of Village Apparatus as a Response to the Determination of Betang Long as a Tourism Allegation Areas Based on Cultural Heritage Case study in Ensaid Panjang Village, Kelam Permai District, Sintang Regency, West Kalimantan
Authors: Sobian Pether
Published: May 2023

The village in Ensaid Panjang Village is located in Sintang Kota, Sintang District. This village has been around for a long time as part of the government agency that handles Ensaid Panjang issues. Ensaid Panjang village has its own building with a total of 14 officers. Ensaid Panjang Village is led by a village head who is responsible for the sub-district head. The village apparatus in Ensaid Panjang Village, Sintang Regency is 14 people consisting of various levels of education and experience. Based on the Decree of the Regent of Sintang No. 362 of 2000 concerning the Establishment of Regional Apparatus Institutions regarding the composition and working procedures of the village, Ensaid Panjang is a supporting element for implementing district government in the field of Ensaid Panjang. This type of research is a qualitative descriptive study. Based on the understanding of descriptive research according to the experts mentioned above, the research that will be carried out by researchers is in the form of descriptive research because it is not a display or narrative of numbers, graphics, or the like. This type of research does not compare, or link one variable to another. Based on the results of the author's observations or observations during the research while the author visited the locus and research site, the author can explain that the organizational structure of the Ensaid Panjang Village government can be seen as the organizational structure. The role of the Village Apparatus in managing the Village Designated Tourism Area is very strategic and important. The village apparatus is one of the village's supporting resources in advancing the village sustainably. Based on the existing human resources of the village apparatus, quite a lot of work is needed to equip, strengthen and improve the capacity of the apparatus in various formal education and training or other forms.
Joint Analysis of the Epidemic Evolution and Human Mobility During the First Wave of COVID-19 in Spain: Retrospective Study (Preprint)
Authors: Steinegger Benjamin , Granell Clara , Rapisardi Giacomo , Gómez Sergio , Matamalas Joan , Soriano-Paños David , Gómez-Gardeñes Jesús , Arenas Alex
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

The initial wave of the COVID-19 pandemic placed a tremendous strain on health care systems worldwide. To mitigate the spread of the virus, many countries implemented stringent nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs), which significantly altered human behavior both before and after their enactment. Despite these efforts, a precise assessment of the impact and efficacy of these NPIs, as well as the extent of human behavioral changes, remained elusive.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we conducted a retrospective analysis of the initial wave of COVID-19 in Spain to better comprehend the influence of NPIs and their interaction with human behavior. Such investigations are vital for devising future mitigation strategies to combat COVID-19 and enhance epidemic preparedness more broadly.

METHODS

We used a combination of national and regional retrospective analyses of pandemic incidence alongside large-scale mobility data to assess the impact and timing of government-implemented NPIs in combating COVID-19. Additionally, we compared these findings with a model-based inference of hospitalizations and fatalities. This model-based approach enabled us to construct counterfactual scenarios that gauged the consequences of delayed initiation of epidemic response measures.

RESULTS

Our analysis demonstrated that the pre–national lockdown epidemic response, encompassing regional measures and heightened individual awareness, significantly contributed to reducing the disease burden in Spain. The mobility data indicated that people adjusted their behavior in response to the regional epidemiological situation before the nationwide lockdown was implemented. Counterfactual scenarios suggested that without this early epidemic response, there would have been an estimated 45,400 (95% CI 37,400-58,000) fatalities and 182,600 (95% CI 150,400-233,800) hospitalizations compared to the reported figures of 27,800 fatalities and 107,600 hospitalizations, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings underscore the significance of self-implemented prevention measures by the population and regional NPIs before the national lockdown in Spain. The study also emphasizes the necessity for prompt and precise data quantification prior to enacting enforced measures. This highlights the critical interplay between NPIs, epidemic progression, and human behavior. This interdependence presents a challenge in predicting the impact of NPIs before they are implemented.
Face Mask Use and Associated Factors Among Students: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Addis Gesese Abreha , Duer Thot Tut
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 has gravely affected the world, including students, due to the high level of contracting infections.

OBJECTIVE

This study assessed the magnitude of mask use and associated factors among students.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study using mixed methods was conducted among students at Gambella Teachers’ Education and Health Science College, Gambella Region, Southwest Ethiopia, from March 5 to March 30, 2021. The stratified random sampling technique was used. Proportional allocation of samples was used to randomly select case teams, and a simple random sampling technique was used to recruit the students. The data were collected by trained and experienced enumerators. Data were entered into EpiData (version 3.1; EpiData Association) and exported to SPSS (version 22; IBM Corp) for analysis. Logistic regression was executed. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with the 95% CI was used to determine the association and strength with the outcome variable. The qualitative data were transcribed, translated, coded, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Then, the themes were used to triangulate the quantitative study.

RESULTS

The study included a total of 379 participants and yielded a response rate of 95.5% (379/397). The majority of study participants were older than 25 years, with the mean age being 26.34 (SD 5.8) years. This study found that the magnitude of mask use among students was 87% (330/379). The odds of mask use were higher among students who were female (AOR 3.32, 95% CI 1.191-9.248), younger (AOR 2.55, 95% CI 1.155-5.627), agreed that not all persons with COVID-19 develop severe disease (AOR 3.38, 95% CI 1.36-8.41), agreed that there is currently no effective cure (AOR 6.28, 95% CI 1.36-28.99), performed proper washing with soap and water (AOR 0.027, 95% CI 0.004-0.182), had started to stay home (AOR 0.168, 95% CI 0.054-0.52), agreed that COVID-19 is fatal (AOR 0.236, 95% CI 0.084-0.666), agreed that a flu vaccine is sufficient for COVID-19 prevention (AOR 3.874, 95% CI 1.540-9.749), and disinfected equipment and working areas at least once a day (AOR 0.222, 95% CI 0.086-0.575).

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that the magnitude of mask use among students was relatively moderate in Ethiopia. Sex, age, agreeing that not all persons with COVID-19 develop severe disease, agreeing that there is currently no effective cure, performing proper washing with soap and water, starting to stay home, agreeing that COVID-19 is fatal, and agreeing that the flu vaccine is sufficient to prevent COVID-19 were independently associated with mask use among students. Therefore, colleges should aggressively encourage students to wear masks and monitor the implementation of COVID-19 prevention regulations along with the accessibility of masks.
Contribution of the 5G Smart First-Aid Care Platform to Achieving High-Quality Prehospital Care (Preprint)
Authors: Xiang Tao , Zhang Pei Yong , Zhuo Guang Ying , Dai Hang
Published: May 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

China is gradually becoming an aging society, and the necessity for prehospital first-aid care is increasing. However, there is a long-term information blind spot in traditional prehospital first-aid care. Fifth-generation (5G) network has the advantages of enhanced broadband, multiple connections, and low latency. Combined with the current prehospital first-aid system, the 5G smart medical prehospital first-aid care model creates a new opportunity for the development of prehospital first-aid care. This paper aimed to describe the 5G smart first-aid care platform and offers practical insights into the construction and application of the 5G smart first-aid care platform in small- and medium-sized cities. We first introduced the working principle of the 5G smart first-aid care platform and then chose patients with prehospital chest pain as an example to describe the whole workflow in detail. The application of the 5G smart emergency-care platform is at the stage of pilot exploration in large- and medium-sized cities. Big data statistical analysis of the completed first-aid care tasks has not been performed yet. The 5G smart first-aid care platform realizes real-time interconnection of information between the ambulance and the hospital, performs remote consultation, shortens the treatment time, and enhances treatment efficiency. Future research should focus on quality control analysis of the 5G smart first-aid care platform.
Effectiveness and User Experience of Virtual Reality for Social Anxiety Disorder: Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Shahid Simon , Kelson Joshua , Saliba Anthony
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a debilitating psychiatric disorder that affects occupational and social functioning. Virtual reality (VR) therapies can provide effective treatment for people with SAD. However, with rapid innovations in immersive VR technology, more contemporary research is required to examine the effectiveness and concomitant user experience outcomes (ie, safety, usability, acceptability, and attrition) of emerging VR interventions for SAD.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this systematic review was to examine the effectiveness and user experience of contemporary VR interventions among people with SAD.

METHODS

The Cochrane Library, Emcare, PsycINFO, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were searched between January 1, 2012, and April 26, 2022. Deduplicated search results were screened based on title and abstract information. Full-text examination was conducted on 71 articles. Studies of all designs and comparator groups were included if they appraised the effectiveness and user experience outcomes of any immersive VR intervention among people with SAD. A standardized coding sheet was used to extract data on key participant, intervention, comparator, outcome, and study design items.

RESULTS

The findings were tabulated and discussed using a narrative synthesis. A total of 18 studies met the inclusion criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings showed that VR exposure therapy–based interventions can generally provide effective, safe, usable, and acceptable treatments for adults with SAD. The average attrition rate from VR treatment was low (11.36%) despite some reported user experience difficulties, including potential simulator sickness, exposure-based emotional distress, and problems with managing treatment delivered in a synchronous group setting. This review also revealed several research gaps, including a lack of VR treatment studies on children and adolescents with SAD as well as a paucity of standardized assessments of VR user experience interactions. More studies are required to address these issues.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO CRD42022353891; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=353891
Understanding the Tensions of “Good Motherhood” Through Women’s Digital Technology Use: Descriptive Qualitative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Facca Danica , Hall Jodi , Hiebert Bradley , Donelle Lorie
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Research suggests that expectant and new mothers consult and value information gathered from digital technologies, such as pregnancy-specific mobile apps and social media platforms, to support their transition to parenting. Notably, this transitional context can be rich with profound physiological, psychological, and emotional fluctuation for women as they cope with the demands of new parenting and navigate the cultural expectations of “good motherhood.” Given the ways in which digital technologies can both support and hinder women’s perceptions of their parenting abilities, understanding expectant and new mothers’ experiences using digital technologies and the tensions that may arise from such use during the transition to parenting period warrants nuanced exploration.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to understand mothers’ use of digital technologies during the transition to parenting period.

METHODS

A descriptive qualitative study was conducted in a predominantly urban region of Southwestern Ontario, Canada. Purposive and snowball sampling strategies were implemented to recruit participants who had become a parent within the previous 24 months. Researchers conducted focus groups using a semistructured interview guide with 26 women. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed.

RESULTS

Participants’ experiences of using digital technologies in the transition to parenting period were captured within the overarching theme “balancing the tensions of digital technology use in the transition to parenting” and 4 subthemes: self-comparison on social media, second-guessing parenting practices, communities of support, and trusting intuition over technology. Although digital technologies purportedly offered “in-the-moment” access to community support and health information, this came at a cost to mothers, as they described feelings of guilt, shame, and self-doubt that provoked them to question and hold in contention whether they were a good mother and using technology in a morally upright manner.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings raise critical questions concerning the promotion and commercialization of digital technologies and the ways in which they can further push the boundaries of hegemonic parenting practices, provoke feelings of inadequacy, and compromise well-being among expectant and new mothers.
Implementing Telemedicine in Clinical Practice in the First Digital Hematology Unit: Feasibility Study (Preprint)
Authors: Santamaria Amparo , Antón Maldonado Cristina , Sánchez-Quiñones Beatriz , Ibarra Vega Nataly , Ayo González Maikel , Gonzalez Cabezas Pedro , Carrasco Moreno Rafael
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Currently, there are no telemedicine models that fully integrate all areas of hematology into daily practice.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this feasibility study were to assess the practicality of implementing telemedicine into our clinical practice in the first Digital Hematology Unit and propose an innovative integrative design for clinical practice.

METHODS

We designed the Digital Hematology Unit, which is a specific physical space dedicated to carrying out telemedicine and monitoring patients in a holistic way. Also, a satisfaction questionnaire was performed and health care indicators were measured.

RESULTS

In 2021, there were 1331 first visits and 7534 follow-up visits. Of the first visits, 12.2% (n=163) were face-to-face and 87.8% (n=1168) were telematic. For follow-up visits, 29.9% (n=2251) were face-to-face and 70.1% (n=5283) were telematic. The health care management indicators showed that we had a waiting time of less than 4 days and took less than 4 hours to answer interconsultations among specialists. Moreover, patients reported a high level of satisfaction with the services provided.

CONCLUSIONS

Our Digital Hematology Unit, as a case of success, serves as an example of how innovative digital solutions can contribute to the quality of care and excellence in health care achieved through a digital transformation process led by hematologists.
Animated Videos Based on Food Processing for Guidance of Brazilian Adults: Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Silva Maria Fernanda Gomes da , Nobre Luciana Neri , Silva Edson da
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) contribute almost one-fifth of the calories consumed by the Brazilian population. This consumption has been favored by aspects such as the ease of acquisition and low cost of this food group. Initiatives focused on supporting and promoting healthy eating practices have been implemented. Among them, the availability of educational resources is an important strategy to maximize the effectiveness of these actions in the field of food and nutrition education (FNE).

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to describe the development and validation process of animated videos based on the NOVA food classification for FNE actions aimed at Brazilian adults.

METHODS

This methodological study was developed in the following 4 phases: planning, preproduction, production, and postproduction. In the planning phase, a literature review was con-ducted on the topic and to define the content to be covered. The design of the material was based on the cognitive theory of multimedia learning. In the preproduction phase, video scripts were developed and evaluated by 7 content specialists. In the production phase, videos were developed based on the assessed scripts and then assessed by 3 multimedia production specialists. In the postproduction phase, the videos were evaluated by 15 representatives of the target audience. All results obtained in the evaluation phases were analyzed using the content validity index (CVI).

RESULTS

We developed 3 animated videos covering the following themes: food processing levels, food categories according to processing levels, and UPFs and their impact on health. In the evaluation by the content specialists, the scripts of videos 1, 2, and 3 obtained CVIs at the scale level and average method equal to 0.96, 0.98, and 0.98, respectively. When the animated videos were evaluated by multimedia production specialists and representatives of the target audience, these indexes were equal to 1.0. These results attest to the videos’ adequacy and quality in communicating the addressed content.

CONCLUSIONS

The animated videos developed and validated in this study proved to be adequate for their purpose. Thus, it is expected that they will be an important instrument for FNE actions aimed at an adult audience and for disseminating the Dietary Guidelines for the Brazilian Population.
Glycemic variability in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (t2dm): the role of melatonin in a crossover, double blind, placebo controlled, randomized study. (Preprint)
Authors: Martorina Wagner , Tavares Almir
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Glycemic variability in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may be associated with chronic complications of the disease. Melatonin, a hormone that regulates the circadian rhythm, plays a crucial role in biological rhythms and can potentially influence glucose fluctuations. Previous studies have indicated that individuals with T2DM often exhibit reduced melatonin production.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, our objective was to investigate whether nighttime melatonin supplementation could mitigate glycemic variability in these patients.

METHODS

Crossover, double blind, placebo controlled and randomized study. A total of 30 patients were enrolled in this study. The study included 15 participants who followed the intervention sequence of placebo (7 days) - washout (7 days) - melatonin (7 days), and another 15 participants who followed the sequence of melatonin (7 days) - washout (7 days) - placebo (7 days). During the final three days of the first and third weeks, the participants measured their pre- and postprandial capillary blood glucose levels.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference between pre- and postprandial breakfast blood glucose levels (p= 0,016) on the third day of blood glucose measurement. The use of melatonin determined a greater variation between pre- and postprandial glycemia than placebo.

CONCLUSIONS

Melatonin worsened glycemic variability during breakfast in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This outcome could be attributed to polymorphisms of the melatonin receptor, MNTR1B, as well as the longer half-life of exogenous melatonin. These factors are known to be associated with deteriorating glycemic control in T2DM. Therefore, caution should be exercised when administering melatonin supplementation to patients with T2DM, taking into consideration factors such as dosage, duration of use, and genetic considerations.

CLINICALTRIAL

This study is registered in the Brazilian registry of clinical trials https://ensaiosclinicos.gov.br/ under the number: RBR-6wg54rb

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/47887
Study of Genetic Diversity of Native Indonesian Catfish Based on Nucleotide Sequences of the ND1 Gene
Authors: Widayanti Rini , Naimah Siti Qiorotun , Prihutami Rahma , Susmiati Trini
Published: May 2023

One of the native catfish to Indonesia is the baung fish (Hemibagrus). Baung fish are found in rivers in Sumatra, Kalimantan and Java. The catfish population is declining, thus conservation is needed to prevent extinction. To conduct an effective conservation efforts, molecular studies are needed to confirm the fish species from the three islands. Mitochondrial DNA is one of the markers that is often used to see the lineage and kinship of animals for conservation purposes. The purpose of this study is to determine the genetic diversity of the NADH Dehydrogenase Subunit I (ND1) gene catfish from each of these locations, can be used as a genetic marker. Samples were obtained from their natural habitat, namely Magelang (5), Palembang (3), Riau (2), Samarinda (2), 2 from Sintang, and 3 from Banjarmasin. The DNA of the fish sample was then isolated and then used as a template for amplification of DNA fragments using PCR techniques. Amplikon (PCR product) was then purified by gel extraction and then sequenced to determine the DNA sequence. The potential of DNA sequences as catfish genetic markers was proven by analyzing genetic diversity between species using the MEGA version 7.0 program (Kumar et al., 2016). The sequencing results 972 nucleotides composing the ND gene, and found differences in 268 nucleotide sites and 47 amino acid sites. Based on the nucleotide sequence of the ND1 gene, catfish from the Progo river (Magelang, Central Java), the Musi river (Palembang, Sumatra), the Kampar river (Riau), the Kapuas river (Sintang, Kalimantan), the Martapura river (Banjarmasin), the Mahakam river (Kalimantan) is included in the Hemibagrus sp.; catfish from the Elo river (Magelang, Central Java) belongs to the genus Mystus sp.; catfish from the Bengawan Solo river (Bojonegoro, East Java) belongs to the Pangasius sp.
Kadar Hormon Prolaktin Pada Kambing Peranakan Ettawa,Sapera dan Saanen Pada Berbagai Status Fisiologi
Authors: Sarmin Sarmin , Widiyono Irkham , Anggraeni Devita , Airin Claude Mona , Astuti Pudji
Published: May 2023

This study examines the prolactin hormone profile in Etaawa, Sapera and Saanen lactating goats, adult females, pregnant does, and yearlings. This study used a total of 80 randomly selected goats with details of 26 Ettawa Crossbreed goats (eight lactating, six adult females, six pregnant, and six heifers), 32 Sapera goats (eight lactating, six adult females, twelve pregnant, and six yearlings) and 22 Saanen goats (five lactating, four adult females, six pregnant and yearling). All goats were declared clinically healthy. Blood sampling was performed through the jugular vein in each animal; then, serum was analyzed with an Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to prolactin concentration. High prolactin concentrations were found in Saanen goats in pregnant physiological status compared to Sapera and Ettawa crossbreed goats.
Proses Penyembelihan dan Waktu Mati Sempurna Sapi Bali sebagai Hewan Kurban di Kabupaten Manokwari
Authors: Sambodo Priyo , Widayati Isti , Nurhayati Dwi , Baaka Alnita , . Purwaningsih , Palulungan John A , Arizona Rizki , . Noviyanti , Inriani Noveling , Suawa Elfira K , Rumetor Sientje D , Wajo Muhammad J
Published: May 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui aspek kesejahteraan hewan berdasarkan tata cara pemisahan dan handling sapi ketika akan disembelih, berapa lama waktu maksimal sapi Bali yang disembelih mati sempurna dan indikator kematian apa yang paling lama hilang setelah sapi disembelih. Penelitian ini dilakukan pada 57 ekor sapi Bali yang disembelih di 5 masjid di Kabupaten Manokwari yang menyelenggarakan penyembelihan hewan kurban. Pengamatan tata cara pemisahan dan handling sapi dilakukan dengan observasi. Waktu henti darah memancar dihitung sejak awal darah memancar sampai tidak lagi memancar. Indikator kematian lain (refleks pupil, refleks kornea, pernafasan ritmik, tonus rahang, tonus lidah, refleks ekor, refleks anus, dan refleks tracak) dihitung setelah waktu henti darah memancar diperoleh. Data yang diperoleh dianalisis secara deskriptif. Data henti darah memancar dihitung rerata dan simpangan bakunya, sedangkan indikator lain disajikan dengan range tiap menit dalam tabel. Pemisahan antara lokasi penempatan dengan penyembelihan dan penggunaan kandang jepit modifikasi untuk handling telah dilakukan disebagian besar lokasi pengamatan. Waktu henti darah memancar pada penelitian ini adalah 2,93 menit. Refleks kornea dan tonus lidah merupakan indikator tercepat yang hilang, yaitu 4-5 menit setelah darah berhenti memancar, kemudian berturut-turut diikuti dengan pernafasan ritmik dan tonus rahang, yaitu masing-masing 5-6 menit serta refleks ekor dan refleks tracak, yaitu 6-7 menit. Refleks anus merupakan indikator terlama yang hilang, yaitu 7-8 menit setelah darah berhenti memancar. Kesimpulan: sebagain besar masjid telah memperhatikan kesejahteraan hewan berdasarkan lokasi dan tata cara penyembelihan. Sapi Bali sebagai hewan kurban di Kabupaten Manokwari mengalami mati sempurna pada menit ke 13,93 dan indikator kematian terakhir yang hilang adalah refleks anus.
Teaching Chinese Culture in English-a CLIL approach
Authors: Saisai Huang
Published: May 2023

This paper explores the integration of content and language learning in the context of teaching Chinese culture to English majors. Drawing on literature from Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL), the paper proposes three key considerations for effective integration: identifying and justifying integration methods, addressing mismatches between language proficiency and cognitive ability, and adopting an inquiry-based approach to teaching and learning. The paper argues that successful integration depends on a symbiotic relationship between content, cognition, communication, and language, as well as the development of intercultural awareness. The paper concludes that while integration is a complex process that requires strategic planning and reflective evaluation, it can enhance the effectiveness of language learning and content acquisition, providing learners with a meaningful context for language and culture learning.
The role of nanotechnology in overcoming barriers to phage therapy: an overview
Authors: Mohammadi Mehrdad , Mirabadi Mehrisadat , Beig Masoumeh , Nasereslami Somaieh , Yazdanmehr Mina , Monfared Fatemeh Nafe
Published: May 2023

Phage treatment has again risen in popularity due to the rise of antibiotic resistance and the need for more reliable alternatives. Human approval of phage therapy has been delayed despite several promising investigations, so, in order to break into the clinical market, existing barriers must be eliminated, and new solutions must be developed. As such, nanotechnology has the potential to help phage formulations overcome their pharmacological drawbacks. The use of nanotechnology to improve phage therapy has received surprisingly little attention in the literature. The key method for increasing phage stability and retention inside the body is encapsulation. New developments in phage therapy using nanotechnology are summarized in this paper.
THE EFFECTS OF COVID-19 ON MULTIFRACTALITY AND LONG-MEMORY IN ETHEREUM’S RETURNS
Authors: Radojičić Jelena , Radovic Ognjen
Published: May 2023

The global COVID-19 pandemic has shaken the global economy, not sparing the cryptocurrency market. In this paper, we investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the dynamics of log returns of the Ethereum. The observed period is divided into three parts: the pre-pandemic period, the pandemic-induced shock, and the period after the pandemic-induced shock on the cryptocurrency market. The research focuses on the impact of the pandemic on the degree of non-linearity and multifractality of log returns. To assess the degree of non-linearity, we used the BDS test and the value of the largest Lyapunov exponent. For multifractality, long-range correlations and information efficiency, we used MF-DFA (Multifractal Detrended Fluctuation Analysis). The research results show that all observed periods have a pronounced non-linearity, but that there is no evidence of the existence of low-dimension chaos. Also, based on the results of the MF-DFA analysis, we conclude that the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected the long memory of the log returns of the Ethereum; however, their dynamics and characteristics are returning to the trends present before the pandemic.
Propiedades fisicomecánicas y funcionales de películas a base de quitosano incorporadas con nanopartículas de plata
Authors: González López Dulce María , Bustos Martínez Jaime Amadeo , Partida Aída Hamdan , Schettino-Bermúdez Beatriz Sofía , Chamorro-Ramírez Francisco Héctor
Published: May 2023

Desarrollar películas biodegradables, compatibles y no tóxicas a base de quitosano que permitan la incorporación de nanocompuestos puede ser favorable para su aplicación en diversas industrias como la alimenticia. El objetivo fue desarrollar películas a base de una matriz biopolimérica de quitosano adicionadas con nanopartículas de plata (AgNPs) y evaluar sus propiedades fisicomecánicas, fisicoquímicas y microbiológicas para aplicaciones de envasado de alimentos. Se sintetizaron soluciones AgNPs por el método Lee-Meisel y quitosano (Q), para evaluar la actividad antimicrobiana. Se desarrollaron películas de Q y Q-AgNPs por el método casting y se evaluaron las propiedades fisicomecánicas mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido de emisión de campo, color, resistencia a la tensión, elongación, elasticidad, humedad, solubilidad, grado de hinchamiento, permeabilidad al vapor de agua, velocidad de transmisión del vapor de agua y grosor. La combinación de Q-AgNPs mostró efecto bacteriostático, mientras que las AgNPs mostraron un retraso en el inicio de la fase de crecimiento logarítmico y disminuyó el crecimiento, respecto al control. Las películas Q y Q-AgNPs se observaron homogéneas sin porosidad. El color de las películas Q-AgNPs fue ligeramente más amarillo y menos luminoso, lo que podría conferir protección de la luz. En el mismo sentido, fueron menos permeables al vapor de agua lo que puede conferirles una función de barrera, ofreciendo un mejor efecto protector de los alimentos; además, fueron 9% más resistentes a la elongación, lo cual las hace más maleables; bajo estas condiciones, se concluye que las películas Q-AgNPs son factibles para aplicarse como recubrimientos o empaques para alimentos.