bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Agent-based Metaheuristic for Predicting Vibration Response of a Catamaran Digital Twin
Authors: Castro Brenno Moura , Reis Marcelo de Miranda , Salles Ronaldo Moreira , Monteiro Ulisses A. , Gutiérrez Ricardo H. R.
Published: April 2024

Embedded structural health monitoring (SHM) systems are complex and costly. Mostly, the monitoring task can only be executed using a limited set of sensors due to the inaccessibility of measurement locations. On the other hand, intelligent agent-based metaheuristic approaches are an emergent tool in modelling complex systems. Therefore, this work proposes an integrating machine learning (ML) and agent-based metaheuristic framework for predicting (virtual sensing) vibration responses at unmeasured locations. This framework combines autonomous agents and a decision tree (ML model) to search for the optimal modal basis and vibration measurements to predict responses accurately at unmeasured locations. As a case study, virtual sensing of vibration responses on the main deck of a catamaran, using a sparse set of accelerometers, was performed. Those measurements were obtained during a sea trial. Statistical analysis was performed using the ANOVA test to evaluate the robustness and accuracy of the proposed methodology. In addition, three metrics in time and frequency domains were also used: Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Time-Response Assurance Criterion (TRAC) and Frequency-Response Assurance Criterion (FRAC). Results showed significant accuracy in the prediction task. In summary, this framework is a viable solution for online structural health monitoring (SHM) applications without requiring a high computational cost.
Digitalkompetenzen von Grundschulkindern
Authors: Theurer Caroline , Jocham Tina , Pohlmann-Rother Sanna
Published: April 2024

Im Beitrag werden Ergebnisse zweier Vorstudien berichtet, die sich auf Daten zu den Bereichen Datenschutz und Sicherheit sowie Bewertung von Inhalten im Internet an Stichproben von Dritt- und Viertklässler:innen stützen. Die Erhebungen sind eingebettet in das Projekt Digit.El, in dem schrittweise Facetten von Digitalkompetenzen im Grundschulalter erhoben werden und das Ziel verfolgt wird, reliable, valide und dennoch ökonomisch einsetzbare Instrumente zur Erfassung der jeweiligen Kompetenzfacetten für Kinder im Grundschulalter bereitzustellen, damit einerseits Diagnostik und andererseits – darauf aufbauend – auch gezielte Förderung in dem Bereich stattfinden kann. Zur Konzeptionalisierung der theoretischen Konstrukte sowie der zu entwickelnden Messinstrumente wird sich u. a. am Digital Competence Framework for Citizens (DigComp 2.2) orientiert. Die Datenerhebungen der Vorstudien fanden über leitfadengestütze Interviews sowie quantitative Testungen statt. Die Ergebnisse beider Teilstudien zeigen, dass Kinder im dritten und vierten Schuljahr über Kenntnisse und teilweise auch Kompetenzen in den anvisierten Bereichen verfügen. Allerdings offenbaren die Ergebnisse auch Leerstellen und einen Nachholbedarf, der u. a. im Hinblick auf die Notwendigkeit einer Förderung digitalbezogener Kompetenzen im Grundschulbereich diskutiert wird.
Fazio, Mariano. Kierkegaard. Una introducción. Madrid: Ediciones Rialp, 2023, 196 pp. ISBN: 978-84-321-6511-5
Authors: Calabrese Claudio César
Published: April 2024

Se espera de una recensión que tenga, por lo menos, dos tiempos: uno descriptivo y otro ponderativo (ésta no será la excepción), sólo que presentaremos este último en dos momentos, apertura y cierre; esto se debe a las características del autor del que se trata, Søren Kierkegaard (1813-1855), que lleva a Mariano Fazio (en adelante, el A.) a plantear, desde el principio, el desafío que debe sobrellevar cada lector del Sócrates del Norte. Entonces, la pregunta básica: ¿por qué deberíamos leer esta Introducción? Fundamentalmente, porque es un reclamo a la condición de cristiano, en medio de las paradojas y desafíos del presente; las preguntas y las reflexiones hechas en la Dinamarca del siglo XIX continúan interpelándonos gravemente y el A. coloca una de ellas, la más importante, de inmediato y de manera también desafiante: “¿Hay quien viva con coherencia su fe cristiana?” (p. 12). La pregunta da en el corazón del creyente, porque pone en juego la conexión entre nuestras palabras, nuestros hábitos y el modo en que nos relacionamos unos con otros. Por esta razón, la coherencia del cristiano no es algo ya dado, a excepción de los santos, sino un continuo hacerse, es decir, una maduración, que conlleva la idea de proceso, pero no necesariamente de progreso, pues, efecto, los creyentes de a pie vamos y venimos en medio de nuestras contradicciones, en nuestro camino de encuentro con Cristo o vida de la fe. Éste es, para mí, el núcleo de la invitación de este libro. Y nos convida a través de un teólogo luterano, Kierkegaard, que plantea la naturaleza compleja de la fe y de la vida; y lo hace con tanta profundidad que no es necesario estar de acuerdo en todo con él, pues únicamente la profundidad nos permite el disenso y el encuentro con la claridad de nuestras propias ideas. Con palabras del A.: “Pensamos que vale la pena un examen de conciencia sobre nuestra época, como sin duda Kierkegaard nos hubiera recomendado si viviera en los albores del tercer milenio” (p. 12).
Long-term inflow forecast using meteorological data based on long short-term memory neural networks
Authors: Zhao Hongye , Liao Shengli , Song Yitong , Fang Zhou , Ma Xiangyu , Zhou BinBin
Published: April 2024

Long-term inflow forecasting is extremely important for reasonable dispatch schedules of hydropower stations and efficient utilization plans of water resources. In this paper, a novel forecast framework, meteorological data long short-term memory neural network (M-LSTM), which uses the meteorological dataset as input and adopts LSTM, is proposed for monthly inflow forecasting. First, the meteorological dataset, which provides more effective information for runoff prediction, is obtained by inverse distance weighting (IDW). Second, the maximal information coefficient (MIC) can adequately measure the degree of correlation between meteorological data and inflow; therefore, the MIC can distinguish key attributes from massive meteorological data and further reduce the computational burden. Last, LSTM is chosen as the prediction method due to its powerful nonlinear predictive capability, which can couple historical inflow records and meteorological data to forecast inflow. The Xiaowan hydropower station is selected as the case study. To evaluate the effectiveness of the M-LSTM for runoff prediction, several methods including LSTM, meteorological data backpropagation neural network (M-BPNN), meteorological data support vector regression (M-SVR) are employed for comparison with the M-LSTM and six evaluation criteria are used to compare its performance. Results revealed that M-LSTM outperforms other test methods in developing the long-term prediction method.
Multivariate regression studies for the investigation of the COD, BOD, and TOC concentrations in the water of the Styr River within the zone of influence of the power plant discharge
Authors: Kuznietsov Pavlo M. , Biedunkova Olha O.
Published: April 2024

The discharge of cooling water into surface waters containing residual heat energy is a pressing issue in the environmental impact of nuclear power. Cooling water flow can cause negative changes in the water and ecological processes of natural waters, in particular an imbalance of organic matter, in combination with a complex of natural factors. The purpose of the article was to perform a statistical analysis of the dynamics of organic matter content in the water of the Styr River in the Rivne Nuclear Power Plant (Rivne NPP) impact zone to assess the manifestation of the environmental impact of the discharge of cooling water with residual heat. The monitoring data series consisted of the results of monthly monitoring of the rate of chemical oxygen demand, the rate of biochemical oxygen demand in 5 days, and total organic carbon in the Styr River sections before and after the discharge of Rivne NPP cooling water in 2018–2022.
Evaluation of Melatonin and its Nanostructures Effects on Skin Disorders Focused on Wound Healing
Authors: Mousavi Seyedeh Mohaddeseh , Etemad Leila , Yari Davood , Hashemi Maryam , Salmasi Zahra
Published: April 2024

:

Skin is the largest organ of the human body functioning as a great primitive defensive
barrier against different harmful environmental factors. However, it is damaged through varying
injuries such as different wounds, burns, and skin cancers that cause disruption in internal organs
and essential mechanisms of the body through inflammation, oxidation, coagulation problems,
infection, etc. Melatonin is the major hormone of the pineal gland that is also effective in skin disorders
due to strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory features with additional desirable antiapoptotic,
anti-cancer, and antibiotic properties.

:

However, melatonin characteristics require improvements due to its limited water solubility, halflife
and stability. The application of nanocarrier systems can improve its solubility, permeability,
and efficiency, as well as inhibit its degradation and promote photostability. Our main purpose in
the current review is to explore the possible role of melatonin and melatonin-containing nanocarriers
in skin disorders focused on wounds. Additionally, melatonin’s effect in regenerative medicine and
its structures as a wound dressing in skin damage has been considered.
Targeting the Interplay of Proteins through PROTACs for Management Cancer and Associated Disorders
Authors: Kumar Prashant , Sharma Himanshu , Singh Abhishek , Durgapal Sumit , Kukreti Gauree , Bhowmick Mithun , Bhowmick Pratibha , Ashique Sumel
Published: April 2024

Cancer remains a formidable global health challenge, necessitating innovative therapeutic
strategies. Traditional small-molecule inhibitors often face limitations in selectively targeting diseaseassociated
proteins, leading to side effects and incomplete therapeutic responses. Proteolysistargeting
chimeras (PROTACs) turned out to be a promising approach to address these challenges.
Unlike traditional inhibitors, PROTACs leverage the cellular ubiquitin-proteasome system to selectively
degrade disease-associated proteins. In this review, we addressed PROTACs: Targeted approach
for cancer management, key findings, limitations, and future perspectives. For this, the authors
have critically reviewed literature obtained from prime sources comprising Google Scholar,
Web of Science, PubMed, and Publons. From the selected papers' reference section, a number of pertinent
articles were retrieved. Preclinical studies and early-phase clinical trials have demonstrated the
efficacy and potential of PROTACs in cancer management. Additionally, the potential of PROTACs
in overcoming therapy resistance, tackling tumor heterogeneity, and engaging multiple pathways is
explored. As research advances, addressing challenges and refining PROTAC technology will pave
the way for their integration into the next generation of cancer therapeutics, marking a transformative
era in precision medicine.
Cardiovascular Reflexes - Vagus as the Key Player
Authors: Herlekar Shantala S. , Doyizode Ashwini R. , Siddangoudra Savitri P. , V. Anupama
Published: April 2024

The cardiac and vascular systems work in coordination by activating various reflex
mechanisms based on the body’s needs. These may be during physiological variations or pathophysiological
changes seen in disease conditions of varying degrees of severity. This article intends
to explain various reflexes involved in the homeostasis of the cardiovascular system and
the role of vagus as the key component in all these reflexes. The article also explains the components
of the reflex arc, the stimulus and response, and the role of reflex in a few diseases. This
article describes 22 different cardiovascular reflexes in detail.
Quality by Design-driven Analytical Method: A Quality Risk
Management-Based Liquid Chromatography Method for Daclatasvir and
Characterization of its Putative Degradants by LC-MS/MS
Authors: Chaturvedi Prashant , Chopra Shruti , Joshi Kalyani , Tauro Savita
Published: April 2024

Background::

Antiviral drugs can cure more than 95 percent of people with hepatitis
C, but the inaccessibility of quality affordable medicines and the lack of their uninterrupted
supply poses a major challenge. Impurities in drugs have a significant impact on their quality
and are one of the substantial causes of drug recalls, ultimately leading to the unavailability of
the drug in the market. Hence, there is a need for a robust, quality risk management and quality
by design-driven analytical method that can detect the antiviral drug, Daclatasvir dihydrochloride,
in the presence of its probable impurities.

Objective::

This study aimed to develop a Quality by Design-driven stability- indicating liquid
chromatography method for Daclatasvir dihydrochloride and the characterization of its putative
degradants by LC-MS.

Method::

The fishbone diagram and quality risk assessment investigated twenty-four process
parameters and concluded that three risk parameters, i.e., flow rate, buffer pH, and stationary
phase type, were the critical process parameters. The critical quality attributes viz. resolution
between impurity 6 and DCV and impurity 2 & 3 (Rs˃1.5), the shape of the peak of DCV
which is decided by the Number of Theoretical Plates (NTP˃5000), and the retention time of
Daclatasvir (tR14-23 mins) were optimized using a two-level three-factor full factorial design
with five center points.

Results::

The optimized method is stability-indicating in its true sense as it can separate the sample
with its degradants generated in basic (three), acidic (two), oxidative (H2O2: three, Azobisisobutyronitrile:
one), photo (three), and dry heat (one) conditions. Degradants structures were elucidated,
and degradation routes were established, using LC-MS and LC-MS/MS analyses.

Conclusion::

The drug is highly susceptible to acid, base hydrolysis, and oxidation degradation
conditions and poses a significant risk to the analytical method to fail in system suitability criteria.
Hence, a robust and flexible chromatographic method with the capacity for continuous
improvement was developed and successfully validated within the criteria of design space.
Anti-viral Effects of Pavetta indica Methanolic Extract and Acyclovir
on Behavioral and Biochemical Parameters in Streptozotocin-induced
Alzheimer's Disease in Rats
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Singh Govind , Tarun  , Dhanawat Meenakshi , Gupta Sumeet , Morsy Mohamed A. , B. Nair Anroop , Matouk Asmaa I.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Alzheimer's disease is a neurological dysfunction of the brain
caused by neurodegeneration and oxidative stress. Some viruses, such as herpes viruses,
HSV-1, and HSV-2, are causative agents of Alzheimer's disease and result in β-amyloid peptide
and tau protein accumulation in the brain. Some antiviral drugs, such as valacyclovir, acyclovir,
and foscarnet, reduce amyloid-beta and P-tau. Pavetta indica leaves are also reported for
their antiviral properties. The current study aimed to find out the significance of using
Pavetta indica methanolic extract and acyclovir against Alzheimer’s disease induced by streptozotocin.

Methods:

Wistar rats received acyclovir and Pavetta indica methanolic extract orally at different
dose ranges (50, 150, 450 mg/kg) and (125, 250, 500 mg/kg), respectively. The standard
therapy, Rivastigmine (2 mg/kg), was given orally.

Results:

Intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin produced significant alternations in behavioral
assessments, including locomotor activity test, Morris water maze test, and elevated
plus maze test. Moreover, intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin ameliorated the antioxidant
defense activity by decreasing levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and reduced
glutathione while enhancing the oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde, and total
nitrite levels. Finally, the main findings showed that intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin significantly
increased the inflammatory marker, tumor necrosis factor-α, and disturbed neurotransmitter
mediators, including levels of acetylcholinesterase, glutamate, and γ-amino butyric
acid.

Conclusion:

In a dose-dependent manner, acyclovir and Pavetta indica methanolic
extract treatments abrogated the streptozotocin-induced behavioral and neurological abnormalities
in rats. The potential therapeutic effects of PIME and acyclovir administration in
intracerebroventricular-streptozotocin-treated rats may be attributed to its potential
antiviral, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects. The current study suggests that Pavetta
indica methanolic extract and acyclovir are promising therapeutic targets against Alzheimer’s
disease.
Assessment of the Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception of Healthcare Providers Regarding Halal Pharmaceuticals
Authors: Jaber Deema , Hasan Hisham E. , Alkaderi Abdulrahman , Alkilani Ahlam Zaid , El-Sharif Abdul-Rahim
Published: April 2024

Background

The intersection of religious beliefs and medical practices significantly impacts medication usage and patient adherence to treatment regimens. Emerging within this discourse is the concept of halal pharmaceuticals, emphasizing the alignment of therapeutic drugs with religious beliefs. Despite its importance, there is limited awareness among healthcare providers (HCPs) regarding their ingredients, standards, and manufacturing processes, particularly in the Middle East region. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) of HCPs concerning Halal pharmaceuticals, which are crucial for addressing the growing concerns among patients and consumers.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey involved diverse HCPs (physicians, pharmacists, and nurses) in Jordan. The survey encompassed demographic data, knowledge about Halal pharmaceuticals, attitudes, and perceptions. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses were performed to examine the associations between demographic variables and KAP scores.

Results

A total of 381 HCPs participated in the study. While HCPs generally had a high level of knowledge, gaps existed, particularly concerning pharmaceutical composition and Halal alternatives. Attitudes and perceptions were mostly positive or neutral, though variations occurred among professions. Pharmacists exhibited significantly higher knowledge scores compared to physicians and nurses. Information sources included academic institutions, peers, religious and educational books, and online resources. Factors, such as age, marital status, religion, education type, insurance type, working place, and years of experience significantly influenced the KAP scores of participants.

Conclusion

Tailored educational interventions are critical for addressing knowledge gaps, fostering positive attitudes, and ensuring culturally sensitive healthcare related to Halal pharmaceuticals. Leveraging diverse information sources and tailoring education based on demographics can enhance understanding. Improved knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions enable HCPs to meet the needs of diverse patient populations and provide safe, Halal-compliant medications. Additionally, further research into the perspectives and willingness of patients to pay for Halal pharmaceuticals is essential to ensuring equitable access to pharmaceutical care services.
Evolving Strategies in NSCLC Care: Targeted Therapies,
Biomarkers, Predictive Models, and Patient Management
Authors: Pant Janmejay , Mittal Payal , Singh Lovedeep , Marwah Harneet
Published: April 2024

Lung cancer, primarily Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), is a global
public health concern responsible for 80-85% of cases, with over two million new cases
occurring annually, and 50% of them in Asia. While there has been a gradual reduction in
United States (US) cases over the last decade, with 238,340 new cases and 127,070
deaths reported in 2023, managing metastatic NSCLC remains crucial, focusing on prolonging
survival and enhancing quality of life. Integration of early palliative care shows
promise in this regard. International guidelines recommend personalized treatment guided
by genetic mutations (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR), Anaplastic Lymphoma
Kinase, C-Ros oncogene [1ROS1]) and systemic therapies, including chemotherapy,
targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, which play pivotal roles in redefining care. Treatment
effectiveness hinges on factors such as cancer stage, patient health, and therapy
type, with surgery and radiation therapy common in early stages and advanced stages requiring
chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Despite advancements in
treatment modalities, NSCLC continues to pose a significant challenge globally, particularly
in Asia, where a substantial portion of new cases arise. While there has been an uncertain
reduction in the incidence of lung cancer in the US over the past decade, the burden
of the disease persists, with substantial mortality rates reported annually.

:

Additionally, upon diagnosis, many NSCLC patients present with distant metastases, necessitating
effective treatment strategies to improve overall survival and quality of life.
The objectives include investigating targeted treatments for NSCLC with specific genetic
mutations, examining mechanisms of novel therapies under study, evaluating preclinical
and clinical studies for therapy efficacy and safety, identifying genetic and epigenetic biomarkers
for diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment selection, developing predictive models
for lung cancer recurrence and survival, assessing the efficacy of treatment approaches
for early-stage lung cancer, and enhancing patient outcomes through collaborative care
and lifestyle interventions. These collective efforts promise to improve patient outcomes
and quality of life in the battle against NSCLC.
Graphene-Based Hydrogels for Controlled Drug Delivery: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Dhankhar Sanchit , Garg Nitika , Chauhan Samrat , Prakash Chander , Saini Monika
Published: April 2024

Graphene is a remarkable substance that has revolutionized numerous disciplines, including
electronics, materials science, condensed physics, quantum physics, energy systems, and
many more. Its physical and chemical properties have been the subject of a great deal of research
since its 2004 discovery. Because of its unique properties, it has swiftly become a contender worth
investigating for biomedical uses by nano-bio researchers.
Studies on graphene and related materials have attracted a great deal of interest from the biomedical
community in the last decade, with a focus on their potential applications in cancer treatment,
smart drug delivery, and gene therapy. Graphene oxide (GO) has many desirable properties, including
a high adsorption capacity, a big surface area, biocompatibility, and colloidal stability.
To get around the problems with traditional treatment methods, researchers have been working on
new drug delivery systems that include biocompatible polymers as nanocomposite carriers, a three-
-dimensional (3D) hydrogel network, and controlled medication release.
In this review, we compiled the latest findings from graphene's biomedical uses, took a look at the
latest innovations in graphene-based hydrogels for medication delivery, and offered some exciting
predictions for the future of this material's function in this field.
Impact of Vaccination Status on Chest CT Findings and Disease Outcomes in COVID-19 Era: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Abdulqader Shaymaa Khalid , Ali Sally Sarmad Mohammed , Fadhil Abeer Abdulkareem , Akram Nabeeha Najatee , Hassan Wassan Nori Mohammed
Published: April 2024

Background:

Computerized Tomography (CT) was extensively used in the COVID-19
era to confirm the diagnosis and follow the patient's response. The vaccine was rapidly introduced to
break the disease chain of infection. The current study primarily aimed to examine the relationship
between vaccination status and pulmonary CT findings. Moreover, it also aimed to validate the role
of CT scan along with other patient criteria in predicting disease outcomes.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the radiology department of two Iraqi hospitals in Baghdad. The study enrolled all hospitalized patients with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis
older than 18 years old. Their data regarding demographic criteria, vaccination criteria (the status and
types), and radiological CT-scan parameters (including CT finding and severity score index) were
collected

Results:

It was found that 23 percent of COVID-19 patients were immunized. Most of the unvaccinated cases were older than 45 years and were females. There was a significant correlation between
the degree and severity of lung involvement and the vaccination status (p < 0.001). The worst radiological sign for severity was the ground glass appearance. The vaccine type showed significant
changes in chest CT. Pfizer had the worst severity score, followed by Sinopharm in vaccinated cases.
The overall mortality was 4.5%. Moreover, the vaccine significantly reduced mortality among vaccinated vs. non-vaccinated cases (p = 0.03). By logistic regression, the CT score reliably predicted
mortality with an odds ratio of 1.31 (1.18 to 1.45; p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Vaccines were found to be significantly effective in protecting vaccinated people
against severe infection and limiting lung injury, as evidenced by CT scores. Vaccines had a trend
effect on reducing mortality. Moreover, CT scores were reliable in predicting the disease outcome.
Morphological and Biochemical Responses of Three Durum Wheat Varieties to Aphid (Rhopalosiphum maidis) Infestation
Authors: Mekaoussi Radhia , Benzina Imene , Si Bachir Abdelkrim
Published: April 2024

Aphids cause biotic stress and vector diseases. However, wheat’s morphological and biochemical responses to aphid infestation are poorly studied. Our study evaluated the varietal behavior of durum wheat (Triticum durum Desf) against Rhopalosiphum maidis (Homoptera: Aphididae) in laboratory conditions. We studied morphological trait variation (plant height [HP], flag leaf area [SFDF], leaf area [SF], spike length [LE], and beard length [LB]) and biochemical characteristics (chlorophyll, soluble sugars, and proline contents) of three varieties in Algeria: MBB, BOU, and GTA. MBB is the least affected, with a 13.34 % infestation rate. The heaviest infestation occurs during the heading stage. All morphological factors decreased in length or surface between control and infested samples. ANOVA showed significant variations for HP, LE, SFDF, and SF but not LB. Biochemical parameters decrease in GTA. In MBB, chlorophyll and soluble sugars decrease while proline increases. For BOU, soluble sugars decrease while chlorophyll and proline increase. Only soluble sugars showed a significant statistical variation between control and infested plants. HP is affected by aphid infestation, which is of higher significance for MBB. Proline content is affected in BOU and GTA. There is no significant variation between aphid infestation and chlorophyll, soluble sugars, and proline levels for MBB. The effect of R. maidis infestation is less important on MBB. HP, SFDF, SF, and LE are morphological selection criteria for R. maidis infestation resistance. Proline is a biochemical selection criterion. Genetic and molecular analyses are required to identify genes for programs that enhance durum wheat’s resistance to R. maidis infestations.
Considering comorbidities and individual differences in testing a gaming Behavioral Activation app for perinatal depression and anxiety; A pilot study (Preprint)
Authors: Hamlett Gabriella E. , Schrader Chloe , Ferguson Craig , Kobylski Lauren A , Picard Rosalind , Locascio Joseph J , McNally Richard J , Cohen Lee S , Vanderkruik Rachel
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Mobile Behavioral Activation (BA) is efficacious for the treatment of perinatal depression, however, the effect of comorbidity on symptom trajectories remains underexplored which is important given that at least 10% of women in the perinatal period experience comorbid anxiety and depression (CAD).

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to assess whether there are differences in symptom trajectories in pregnant participants with Comorbid Anxiety and Depression (CAD) as compared to those same with depression only (i.e., Major Depressive Disorder; MDD) during intervention with a Behavioral Activation (BA) mobile gaming app.

METHODS

Pregnant adults with either CAD (n = 10) or MDD (n = 7) used a BA app for 10 weeks and completed biweekly symptom severity questionnaires for depression and anxiety. We assessed whether baseline diagnoses were associated with differential symptom trajectories across the study with mixed effects longitudinal models.

RESULTS

When controlling for baseline symptoms, results revealed a significant interaction between baseline diagnosis and the quadratic component of study week on anxiety (β = 0.06, SE = 0.02, t(63) = 2.94, p = .005), revealing a tendency for anxiety in CAD group to increase initially and then decrease at an accelerated rate, whereas MDD symptoms were relatively stable across time. There was a significant effect of linear time on PHQ-9 (β = -0.39, SE = 0.11, t(68) = -3.51, p = .001), showing that PHQ-9 declined steadily across time for both groups. There was a significant effect of baseline diagnosis on PHQ-9 (β = -8.53, SE = 3.93, t(13) = -2.17, p = .05), suggesting that those with MDD had higher PHQ-9 scores post- treatment compared to those with CAD when holding other predictors constant.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings underscore the need to consider comorbidities and individual variations in participants when developing scalable mobile interventions for perinatal populations.

CLINICALTRIAL

Not applicable
Effectiveness of Frequent Point-of-Care Molecular COVID-19 Surveillance in a Rural Workplace: A Non-Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial Among Miners (Preprint)
Authors: Sood Akshay , Jarrell William “Cotton” , Shore Xin W , Sosa Nestor , Parada Alisha , Edwardson Nicholas , Yingling Alexandra V , Amirkabirian Teah , Cheng Qiuying , Hurwitz Ivy , Cook Linda S. , Leng Shuguang , Myers Orrin B , Perkins Douglas J
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have assessed the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) exposure and infection among healthcare workers during the pandemic. However, far fewer studies have investigated the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on essential workers in other sectors. Moreover, guidance for maintaining a safely operating workplace in sectors outside of healthcare remains limited. Workplace surveillance has been recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but few studies have examined the feasibility or effectiveness of this approach.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility and effectiveness of using frequent point-of-care molecular workplace surveillance as an intervention strategy to prevent the spread of SARS-CoV-2 at essential rural workplaces (mining sites) where physical distancing, remote work, and flexible schedules are not possible.

METHODS

In this non-randomized controlled clinical trial conducted from February 2021–March 2022, 169 miners in New Mexico (intervention cohort) and 61 miners in Wyoming (control cohort) were enrolled. Investigators performed point-of-care rapid antigen testing on midnasal swabs (NS) self-collected by intervention miners. Rates of seropositivity to SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein were analyzed in the intervention cohort compared to the control cohort at baseline and 3, 6, and 12 months. The diagnostic accuracy of detecting SARS-CoV-2 using rapid antigen testing on NS was compared to laboratory-based RT-PCR on nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) in a subset of 68 samples.

RESULTS

Our intervention had a mean acceptance rate of 96.7% and intervention miners exibited lower cumulative seropositivity (p=0.025) demonstrating frequent point-of-care testing is a feasible, effective way to lower the rate of infection. Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 antigen detection in self-administered NS revealed 100% sensitivity and specificity compared to laboratory-based RT-PCR testing on NPS.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings establish frequent point-of-care molecular workplace COVID-19 surveillance as a feasible option for keeping essential rural workplaces open and preventing SARS-CoV-2 spread. These findings extend beyond this study, providing valuable insights for designing interventions to maintain employees’ safety at other essential workplaces during an infectious disease outbreak.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04977050
Factors influencing mobile health utilization among patients with diabetes: a cross-sectional study based on Andersen's behavioral model (Preprint)
Authors: He Ting , Yang Xiaoling , Yuan Li , LI Rao , Lv Jing , Wang Yi
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The development of mobile health (mHealth) in China has tremendous potential, especially for diabetes, which is one of the major chronic diseases affecting hundreds of millions of people. However, research on the current use of mHealth by patients with diabetes and the factors influencing their decision-making is insufficient. Most existing studies have approached the subject from a technological perspective and often overlooked the identity of patients as users of mHealth services.

OBJECTIVE

Based on the Andersen behavioral model, this study aimed to investigate the factors affecting patients' adoption of mHealth, with a special emphasis on individual patient characteristics, and provided recommendations for the promotion of mHealth and the management of diabetes.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study. A sample survey was conducted in one tertiary hospital and two community health service centers, and an anonymous self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted among patients with diabetes. Based on Andersen’s behavioral model, the questionnaire divided the influencing factors into predisposing factors, enabling factors and need factors. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to explore the factors influencing the utilization of mHealth.

RESULTS

A total of 533 questionnaires were valid. In this study, 36.8% of patients with diabetes utilized mHealth services. Among the predisposing factors, having better education and mHealth knowledge were found to be facilitators of mHealth utilization, and employment status was a factor associated with mHealth utilization. Among the enabling factors, patients with internet access and living in urban areas were more likely to have access to mHealth, and higher health literacy positively influenced mHealth utilization. Among the need factors, self-assessed health status was linked to mHealth utilization, and diabetes duration had a negative impact on mobile health utilization.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of mobile health utilization remained low. In the future, improvements can be made in multiple aspects, such as policy, promotion, infrastructure, and health education, to advance the development of mobile health and the management and control of diabetes.

CLINICALTRIAL

uninvolved
Decision Aid for Colectomy in Recurrent Diverticulitis: Development and Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hawkins Alexander T , Fa Andrea , Younan Samuel A , Ivatury Srinivas Joga , Bonnet Kemberlee , Schlundt David , Gordon Elisa J , Cavanaugh Kerri L
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Diverticular disease is a common gastrointestinal diagnosis with over 2.7 million clinic visits yearly. National guidelines from the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons state that “the decision to recommend elective sigmoid colectomy after recovery from uncomplicated acute diverticulitis should be individualized.” However, tools to individualize this decision are lacking.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to develop an online educational decision aid (DA) to facilitate effective surgeon and patient communication about treatment options for recurrent left-sided diverticulitis.

METHODS

We used a modified design sprint methodology to create a prototype DA. We engaged a multidisciplinary team and adapted elements from the Ottawa Personal Decision Guide. We then iteratively refined the prototype by conducting a mixed methods assessment of content and usability testing, involving cognitive interviews with patients and surgeons. The findings informed the refinement of the DA. Further testing included an in-clinic feasibility review.

RESULTS

Over a 4-day in-person rapid design sprint, including patients, surgeons, and health communication experts, we developed a prototype of a diverticulitis DA, comprising an interactive website and handout with 3 discrete sections. The first section contains education about diverticulitis and treatment options. The second section clarifies the potential risks and benefits of both clinical treatment options (medical management vs colectomy). The third section invites patients to participate in a value clarification exercise. After navigating the DA, the patient prints a synopsis that they bring to their clinic appointment, which serves as a guide for shared decision-making.

CONCLUSIONS

Design sprint methodology, emphasizing stakeholder co-design and complemented by extensive user testing, is an effective and efficient strategy to create a DA for patients living with recurrent diverticulitis facing critical treatment decisions.
Determinant of Audit Delays: An Empirical Analysis of Manufacturing Companies on the Indonesia Stock Exchange
Authors: Deliana Putri Bunga , Barita Carlos Sihombing Daniel
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study is to obtain direct details about how the impact of audit opinion, audit committee, company size, and solvency on audit delay. This research was conducted on manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) for the 2020-2023 period. The sample in this study was obtained using the purposive sampling method, which is a sampling technique based on certain criteria. Based on the predetermined criteria, a sample of 459 samples was obtained. This study uses SPSS tools with the logistic regression analysis method, this study uses secondary data, namely data obtained from the annual financial statements of manufacturing companies accessed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange website. Audit opinion measurement uses dummy variables using code 1 for companies that get an unqualified opinion, and code 0 for other than an unqualified opinion. The audit committee is measured by comparing the number of commissioners with the number of audit committees in a company. Company size is measured by the natural logarithm of total assets and solvency is measured by dividing total debt by total assets of a company. The results of this study identify that the audit committee affects audit delay and company size was also identified as affecting audit delay in manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) in 2020-2022. Meanwhile, audit opinion is identified that this variable does not affect audit delay, and solvency is also identified as not affecting audit delay in companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) in 2020-2022.
Effects of water hyacinth compost and biological agents (Trichoderma sp) on the growth and yield of shallots (Allium ascalonicum L.) in dry land
Authors: Lehar Laurensius , Proklamita Tri Luchi , Arifin Zainal
Published: April 2024

Shallot (Allium ascalonicum L.) is one of leading vegetable commodities intensively cultivated by farmers for a long time, including farmers in East Nusa Tenggara (ENT). The purpose of this study was to produce water hyacinth compost with ability to interact with Trichoderma sp. in order to improve the shallot bulb quality cultivated in dry land. This factorial experimental research was arranged in a Split Plot Design with 10 treatments and 3 replications. There were 10 treatment combinations with 30 experimental plots. Two factors were tested in this research. The first factor was the water hyacinth compost as the main plot, namely: 15 ton ha⁻¹ water hyacinth compost (K1) and without water hyacinth compost (K2), while the second factor as a sub-plot was the concentration of Trichoderma sp., consisting of watering with plain water (as control) of 100 mL(P0), watering with a concentration of Trichoderma sp. 5 mL.L⁻¹ (P1), watering with a concentration of Trichoderma sp. 10 mL.L⁻¹ (P2), watering with Trichoderma sp. concentration 15 mL.L⁻¹ (P3) and watering with Trichoderma sp. 20 mL.L⁻¹ (P4). The treatment of water hyacinth compost fertilizer at 15 tons ha⁻¹ with a concentration of Trichoderma sp 20 mL.L⁻¹ resulted in the highest number of shallot leaves (84.27 strands) and tillers (10.82). The shallot bulb weight per plot was 2455.33 g, and the number of bulbs per plot was 350.40 bulbs.
Communal Sharing as the Foundation of Solidarity Action in Youth Organization
Authors: Jayanti Melani , Minza Wenty Marina , Nurdiyanto F A
Published: April 2024

Solidaritas menjadi tema yang sering dibahas untuk menjelaskan fenomena sosial yang berhubungan dengan kepedulian dan kohesivitas. Solidaritas juga menjadi topik yang sering diangkat dalam berita maupun karya ilmiah terutama saat terjadi situasi krisis. Namun studi terdahulu lebih banyak fokus pada bentuk aksi solidaritas, bukan pada proses solidaritas yang berkaitan dengan relasi intragroup. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui apa dan bagaimana pola dan peran relasi intragroup dalam aksi solidaritas organisasi pemuda. Pendekatan pengambilan data dalam penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif studi kasus eksplanatori pada organisasi pemuda yang melakukan aksi solidaritas secara sustainable dengan jumlah partisipan sebanyak 7 orang. Penelitian ini menemukan dua tema penting yang ada dalam relasi communal sharing antara lain kesetaraan dan kerja sama. Penelitian ini berkontribusi pada diskusi literatur mengenai relasi intragroup yang memiliki relevansi sebagai landasan aksi solidaritas yang dapat memengaruhi nilai, norma, cara kerja, serta pengambilan keputusan dalam kelompok.
Self-Acceptance of Saye’s (Tajen Judge) Children in Bali
Authors: Ardhana Dewa Ayu Venny , Susana Tjipto , Ninin Retno Hanggarani
Published: April 2024

Self-acceptance plays a crucial role in mental health and emotional well-being. In Balinese society, children living with a parent who works as a saye and is involved in gambling struggle to accept themselves. Therefore, it is urgent to understand or study the experiences of saye’s children and their self-acceptance. This study used a phenomenological qualitative approach, and the data were analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The data were gathered through semi-structured and narrative interviews. There were three participants aged 18-25 years living with a parent who works as a saye (tajen judge). The results of this study showed that: 1) The children of the saye have unpleasant experiences related to stigma, stereotypes, verbal bullying, and their fathers’ anger when losing a gamble; 2) The children go through stages of self-acceptance, such as denial and rationalization, becoming involved in the gambling activity, finding meaning, and achieving self-acceptance; and 3) Factors that contribute to the children’s self-acceptance include the socio-cultural environment, positive support, and democratic parenting. To increase the self-acceptance of saye’s children, families should provide a safe environment for children, and society should not stigmatize saye’s families. The results of this research cannot simply be applied to other regions because Gianyar Regency carries out tajen activities more frequently compared to other locations. Future research needs to explore other areas in Bali.
Utility of Blood Biomarkers to Predict Marrow Iron Stores in Children
Authors: Sharma Shilpa , Pereira Renata C. , Nemeth Elizabeta , Hanudel Mark R. , Ix Joachim H. , Salusky Isidro B. , Ganz Tomas
Published: April 2024

Key Points

Serum ferritin was the strongest independent correlate of greater marrow iron stores in children with kidney failure supported by dialysis.

Compared with current clinical guideline-based cutoffs for iron deficiency, ferritin outperforms these cut points for stainable marrow iron stores.

Background

Iron deficiency is common in children with kidney failure, but current guidelines are based on biomarkers of iron stores that may be influenced by inflammation. This is the first study that examined which serum iron indices were associated with stainable marrow iron stores (the gold standard) in this population with kidney failure who underwent bone biopsies.

Methods

This cross-sectional study enrolled 71 clinically stable children and young adults receiving dialysis who underwent bone biopsy for CKD-mineral bone disorder between 2007 and 2011. Bone biopsies were stained with Perls Prussian blue and independently interpreted by a pathologist blinded to participants' iron parameters and clinical status. Marrow staining was scored absent versus present to facilitate receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis. In ROC analysis, the ability of serum ferritin to detect stainable marrow iron stores was compared with that of transferrin saturation (TSAT), serum hepcidin, and clinical guideline-based iron deficiency cutoffs for serum iron, TSAT, and their combinations.

Results

The mean age was 17.2±4.4 years (range 2–28), and 30% of patients were female. Median dialysis vintage was 1.2 (interquartile range, 0.7–2.0) years, and 56% were supported by peritoneal dialysis. Mean hemoglobin was 12.4±1.7 g/dl, and 35% were receiving iron supplementation at the time of biopsy. On the basis of the gold standard of depleted marrow iron stores, 46.5% of patients were iron deficient. As an indicator of marrow iron staining, serum ferritin provided a larger area under the ROC curve than serum hepcidin, TSAT, or clinical guideline-based evaluation of TSAT+ferritin.

Conclusions

In this cohort of children and young adults with kidney failure, serum ferritin provided the best indication of stainable marrow iron stores, followed by TSAT.

Podcast

This article contains a podcast at https://www.asn-online.org/media/podcast/CJASN/2024_08_01_CJASNJuly197812024.mp3
Analysis of News Source Selection in the Digital Age: A Case Study of Micro-platforms Operated by People’s Daily and Southern Weekly
Authors: Zhang Songhua , Wei Wang
Published: April 2024

This study employs content analysis to compare and examine the selection of news sources in the micro-platforms of mainstream media, People’s Daily, and urban media, Southern Weekly. It attempts to interpret the impact of the digitalization process on the content production practices of different news media in China. The research reveals that in the digital era, media attributes and platform regulations are direct factors influencing the selection of news sources in news production. This transformation has significantly altered traditional news content production. Official news sources remain the primary choice for news media in producing content in the digital age. Additionally, grassroots news sources, representing the general public, are gradually incorporated into various types of reporting, demonstrating a trend towards democratization.
Design and Fabrication of Automated Counting Machine
Authors: K Mukesh
Published: April 2024

Abstract: The design and fabrication of an automatic counting device specifically for wedges are presented in this work. The device effectively counts wedges in a variety of industrial processes by utilizing electronic control systems and precise engineering concepts. The design incorporates a user-friendly interface for smooth operation and sensors for precise detection. In order to assure dependable operation, fabrication entails programming embedded systems and assembling specialized components. For businesses producing wedges, the automated counting machine provides a workable way to improve efficiency and quality assurance.