bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review on Bioactive Compound, Alkannin/Shikonin: Isolation, Biosynthesis, Formulations, Clinical trials, Patents and Toxicity with Phytochemicals and Pharmacological Properties of an Endangered Species, Alkanna tinctoria
Authors: Singh Sonia , Pandey Swapnil
Published: November 2024

Alkanna tinctoria, called as Alkanet, is considered as a perennial plant (family: Boraginaceae).
The plant is well-known for its large quantity of naphthoquinone enantiomers, specifically
Alkannin and Shikonin (A/S). These compounds offer various pharmaceutical applications
and find use in cosmetics, food supplements, and natural dyes. A search was conducted on the
online databases Scopus, Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using the
following keywords including traditional applications, phytochemical compositions, alkannin,
shikonin, endangered species, wound healing, ulcer, and toxicity about A. tinctoria. Shikonin
known for a coloured pigment that has been isolated from A.tinctoria has several potential effects
as an anti-inflammatory, anticancer agent and in the management of wound healing. However,
several obstacles prevent them from reaching their full potential. Sustainable production is a significant
obstacle; relying on plant sources raises worries about supply and environmental impact,
which necessitates the use of alternate technologies such as plant tissue culture or microbial biosynthesis.
Also, possible side effects and toxicity need to be fully studied to make sure they are
safe for people to use. The current manuscript describes the isolation, biosynthesis, patents filed,
clinical trials, toxicity studies, and various novel formulations containing A/S.
The Role of Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) in the Combating and Treat-ment of Sexually Transmitted Viral Infections
Authors: Yilmaz Ozge , Onder Alev
Published: November 2024

Tea is obtained from the young leaves and shoots of the evergreen perennial plant Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze, the most popular and frequently consumed product using a natural beverage worldwide. Some kinds of tea, including green, black, and oolong, have assorted flavors depending on the manufacturing techniques. Green tea has been studied for many years for its important beneficial effects, such as anticancer, antiobesity, antidiabetes, antiinflammatory, neuroprotective, and cardiovascular effects. These effects are primarily as-sociated with tea polyphenols, and regular consumption has been reported to decrease the incidence of some chronic diseases. Current studies support that green tea catechins play an important role in curing and improving the pathology of many diseases. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) is the most highly found polyphenol in the leaves and is of great interest for its protective role in disease prevention. Therefore, this review presents the efficacy and pos-sible mechanisms of EGCG against sexually transmitted viruses. Moreover, EGCG and its derivatives are recognized as safe and bioactive phytochemicals for external and internal use in preventing and treating viral STIs and other concurrent infections. Multidisciplinary stud-ies are essential to discover cheaper, safer, and more effective treatments using EGCG and its derivatives to improve the toxicity and formulations of viral STI medications.
Recent Updates on Chemo Biodiversity of the Genus Cladosporium
Authors: Abdelatty Nousiba Ahmad , Attia Eman Zekry , Hamed Ashraf Nageeb Elsayed , Abdelmohsen Usama Ramadan , Desoukey Samar Yehia , Fouad Mostafa Ahmed
Published: November 2024

Endophytes are an appealing source of natural products with unique structures that can
aid in the treatment of life-altering disorders because of the complexity and structural variety of the
secondary metabolites they produce. The genus Cladosporium, which belongs to family Cladosporiaceae,
class Dothideomycetes has received more attention due to the isolation of various classes of
compounds with unique structures mainly alkaloids, azaphilones, benzofluoranthenones, coumarins,
isocumarins, lactones, naphthalenones, macrolides, perylenequinones and steroids that exhibited
diverse biological activities as: antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, phytotoxicity
and anti-Alzheimer, whereas anticancer compounds predominated. This review focuses on the isolated
secondary metabolites from genus Cladosporium specifically, C. cladosporioides, C. sphaerospermum,
C. herbarum, C. halotolerans, C. tenuissimum, C. oxyspormum, C. perangustum, C. uredinicola,
C. colocasiae, C. delicatulum and C. phlei due to their exquisite bioactivity, the source of
the strains, the culture media, the biological potential of isolated secondary metabolites and covers
the literature from 2000 to 2023.
Bigels as Novel Drug Delivery Systems: A Systematic Review on Efficiency and Influential Factors
Authors: Shakouri Shahrzad , Tehrani Mostafa Mazaheri , Koocheki Arash , Farhoosh Reza , Abdolshahi Anna , Shariatifar Nabi
Published: November 2024

Background:

Bigles are novel formulation merging two phase of hydrogel and organogel
revealing dual properties to release active agents based on their lipophilic or hydrophilic nature.

Methods:

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science to find
eligible studies evaluating the efficiency of bigels in drug release. 20 articles were included in the
analysis based on the defined criteria.

Results:

The results indicated that several different natural materials were used for bigel making.
Span (52.38%) and Sunflower oil (23.80%) were the most solvents used for organogel formation.
Also, gelatin, agar, gums, and other types of biopolymer were used as hydroglators. Most research
(33.33%) focused on the release of metronidazole from bigel structure. Also, the range of drug release
rates was 1.59 - 100% and in 42.85% of studies was >90%. The nature, content, and properties
of both organogel and hydrogel and some process variables such as temperature, mixing speed
and storage conditions were highlighted as the main influential factors on bigel formation and its
bioactivity.

Conclusion:

Bigels are an innovative structure that provides desired physicochemical and rheological
properties for industrial applications. Excellent biocompatibility and in vitro / ex vivo results
have been documented for developed bigels. In this regard, an optimal preparation method is very
important to show superior therapeutic effects.
Socioeconomic factors and university student dropout
Authors: Zamora-Vélez Glicerio Alberto , Bermúdez-Cevallos Lilia del Rocío
Published: November 2024

The investigation adopted a mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative) in order to analyze the different factors of dropout. Based on the analysis of the socioeconomic factors that constitute an element that affects student dropout at the Eloy Alfaro Lay University of Manabí ext.  Chone. The methods used were: Bibliographic, analytical/synthetic, inductive/deductive, documentary, and descriptive. The documentary method contributed to collecting information from the Academic Commission and Secretariat of this institution that contributed to supporting the research. The results showed that the main causes for student dropout are lack of time, work impediments, health problems, and economic situation. In the period from 2020 to 2023, 509 students were registered, of which 446 students graduated in different careers. According to the information collected through the teacher survey, it was determined that the main reasons for student dropout are linked to the lack of economic resources, work aspects, and family problems. At the level of conclusions and based on the data obtained, it was possible to demonstrate that socioeconomic factors constitute an element that affects student dropout. Factors such as academic, economic, family, intention to drop out, motivational, health, and social factors can influence university student dropout.
De biodiversiteitscrisis te lijf : een nieuwe en onmisbare rol van ecologen voor natuurherstel
Authors: Smit Chris
Published: November 2024

De natuur en biodiversiteit staan wereldwijd onder grote druk; we bevinden ons midden in een biodiversiteitscrisis. Momenteel worden een miljoen soorten met uitsterven bedreigd, waarbij de mens de voornaamste oorzaak is. Ook in Nederland is de situatie zorgwekkend: we hebben erg weinig natuur (ongeveer 12% van het landoppervlak, vergeleken met zo’n 50% voor landbouw), en de kwaliteit daarvan is bovendien slecht door aanhoudende stikstofuitstoot, verdroging en versnippering van leefgebieden. Ook ten opzichte van andere Europese landen doen we het slecht qua behalen van natuurdoelen, en bungelen steevast ergens onderaan. Het huidige politieke klimaat biedt weinig hoop, met desastreuze plannen voor natuur, educatie en wetenschap. Chris Smit voelt een grote verantwoordelijkheid en urgentie om hier iets aan te doen. Hij ziet een belangrijke rol weggelegd voor zijn vakgebied – ecologie. . Ecologisch onderzoek is cruciaal om trends van de biodiversiteit en natuur nauwkeurig te documenteren en om de achterliggende processen te ontrafelen. Dit heeft geleid tot concrete aanbevelingen en belangrijke praktische toepassingen voor effectief natuurbeheer en beleid, zoals het Europese Natura 2000 netwerk, en veel grote natuurontwikkelingsprojecten met nieuwe natuur. Toch moeten we nu concluderen dat ondanks jaren van gedegen ecologisch onderzoek de natuur er in ons land niet of nauwelijks op vooruit is gegaan. Er moet dus iets veranderen in de manier waarop ecologen te werk gaan voor het herstel van natuur en biodiversiteit. De huidige sterke polarisatie in de maatschappij over natuur gerelateerde thema’s zoals stikstof en terugkeer van de wolf helpt daarbij niet mee om de noodzakelijke verandering op gang te brengen. Ecologen zullen dus meer moeten doen om de gewenste verandering, een sterke verbetering van natuur en biodiversiteit, teweeg te brengen. Door nieuwe recente projecten is Smit ervan overtuigd geraakt dat dit alleen kan als we echt gaan samenwerken, vanaf het begin, met relevante andere vakgebieden en cruciale stakeholders (inter- en transdisciplinair werken), en zo de maatschappij echt betrekken. Alleen zo kunnen we de biodiversiteitscrisis effectief te lijf gaan, met een nieuwe en onmisbare rol van ecologen voor natuurherstel.
International dimensions of the China Dream: A case study of media coverage in Kenya
Authors: Lee Charlotte
Published: November 2024

This paper examines media coverage of China-sponsored development projects in Kenya in order to understand more deeply China’s global soft power strategies. Kenya is a hub for China’s media presence on the African continent and also an important node in China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Examination of Kenyan news content in the period immediately following the 2012 launch of Xi Jinping’s signature concept, the China Dream, as well as regression analysis of newspaper article characteristics, finds that the China Dream concept has not been adopted in a meaningful way by host country media outlets. This highlights the challenges facing China’s leaders in shaping public narratives within countries characterized by strong independent media traditions.
PENGARUH KONSENTRASI KOMBINASI 2,4-D DAN TDZ TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN TUNAS AKSILER ANGGREK (Dendrobium Red Emperor Prince)
Authors: Setiawan Andri Dias , Mercuriani Ixora Sartika , Sugiarto Lili , Ratnawati Ratnawati , Aloysius Suyitno
Published: November 2024

Abstrak.Anggrek merupakan tanaman hias yang memiliki nilai ekonomi yang tinggi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh dan konsentrasi optimal zat pengatur tumbuh (ZPT) 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acid (2,4-D) dan  Thidiazuron (TDZ) terhadap pertumbuhan tunas aksiler anggrek Dendrobium Red Emperor Prince. Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) dengan 2 faktor perlakuan yaitu konsentrasi 2,4-D dan TDZ ((0,0), (0,4), (0,5,3), (1,2), (1,5,1) dan (2,0)) dan posisi nodus (atas, tengah dan bawah) sebanyak 6 ulangan. Data dianailisis dengan menggunakan two-way ANOVA dan uji lanjut menggunakan DMRT 5%. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa konsentrasi (0 ppm,4 ppm) mampu menginduksi tunas aksiler dan (1,5 ppm dan 1 ppm) mampu menginduksi akar anggrek Dendrobium Red Emperor Prince lebih baik. Kata kunci: 2,4-D, TDZ, induksi tunas aksiler, Dendrobium Red Emperor PrinceAbstract. Orchids are ornamental plants that have high economic value. This study aims to determine the effect and optimal concentration of plant growth regulators (ZPT) 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acid (2,4-D) and Thidiazuron (TDZ) on the growth of axillary shoots of the Dendrobium Red Emperor Prince orchid. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with 2 treatment factors, namely concentrations of 2,4-D and TDZ ((0,0), (0,4), (0,5,3), (1,2), ( 1,5,1) and (2,0)) and node positions (top, middle and bottom) for 6 repetitions. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and follow-up testing using 5% DMRT. The results showed that concentrations (0 ppm.4 ppm) were able to induce axillary shoots and (1.5 ppm and 1 ppm) were able to induce the roots of Dendrobium Red Emperor Prince orchids better.Keywords: 2,4-D, TDZ, axillary shoot induction, Dendrobium Red Emperor PrinceOrchids are ornamental plants that have high economic value. This study aims to determine the effect and optimal concentration of plant growth regulators (ZPT) 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acid (2,4-D) and Thidiazuron (TDZ) on the growth of axillary shoots of the Dendrobium Red Emperor Prince orchid. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with 2 treatment factors, namely concentrations of 2,4-D and TDZ ((0,0), (0,4), (0,5,3), (1,2), ( 1,5,1) and (2,0)) and node positions (top, middle and bottom) for 6 repetitions. Data were analyzed using two-way ANOVA and follow-up testing using 5% DMRT. The results showed that concentrations (0 ppm.4 ppm) were able to induce axillary shoots and (1.5 ppm and 1 ppm) were able to induce the roots of Dendrobium Red Emperor Prince orchids better.
The impact of service quality on citizen engagement in e-government
Authors:   Faculty of Information Technology, World Islamic Sciences and Education University, Amman, Jordan, AL-Naimat Ali M.
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine how service quality affects citizens' participation in e-government. A descriptive approach was used, focusing on all citizens of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The study sample included 415 participants, chosen through random sampling. A questionnaire was developed to assess different aspects of service quality. The results showed that the impact of service quality on citizens' participation in e-government was moderate. The "ease of use" dimension received the highest score, while "responsiveness and communication" scored the lowest. There were no statistically significant differences in the ease of use dimension, but significant differences were found for the gender variable in the dimensions of efficiency, reliability, responsiveness, communication, and the overall tool, with women scoring higher. No statistically significant differences were found for age or educational qualifications across any of the dimensions studied.
Security Length Associated with the Risk of Ammonia Tank Leak Using CTOA Criterion and ALOHA Software
Authors: Baba Kwami Eli , Pluvinage Guy , Capelle Julien
Published: November 2024

Ammonia is a toxic gas and can cause tragic consequences for humans. The damage level depends on concentration and duration of exposure. The security length associated with the risk of a tank leak at the acute exposure level of 30 ppm (AEGL-1) has been computed. Two tools have been combined: the CTOA criterion and the ALOHA software. The CTOA, a measure of fracture resistance against ductile crack propagation, is implemented in Abaqus software to compute the size of a breach in a tank submitted to internal pressure. This breach is assumed to be initiated by a gouge-dent defect provoked by a shock. The ALOHA software introduces the tank's characteristics, contents, and breach size. This allows us to determine and visualize the security length. The security length depends on geographic and climatic conditions, and for an incident localized in Metz (France), a value of 436 m was found. The effects of internal temperature, wind speed, and breach position are studied. A comparison for the same reference state with hydrogen is also made.
Reciprocal Relationship Between Self-Control Belief and Gaming Disorder in Children and Adolescents: Longitudinal Survey Study
Authors: Zhu Shimin , Qi Di
Published: November 2024

Background

Children and adolescents are often at the crossroads of leisure gaming and excessive gaming. It is essential to identify the modifiable psychosocial factors influencing gaming disorder development. The lay theories of self-control (ie, the beliefs about whether self-control can be improved, also called self-control mindsets) may interplay with self-control and gaming disorder and serve as a promising influential factor for gaming disorder.

Objective

This study aims to answer the research questions “Does believing one’s self-control is unchangeable predict more severe gaming disorder symptoms later?” and “Does the severity of gaming disorder symptoms prospectively predict self-control mindsets?” with a 1-year, 2-wave, school-based longitudinal survey.

Methods

A total of 3264 students (338 in grades 4‐5 and 2926 in grades 7‐10) from 15 schools in Hong Kong participated in the classroom surveys. We used cross-lagged panel models to examine the direction of the longitudinal association between self-control mindsets and gaming disorder.

Results

A bidirectional relationship was found between self-control mindsets and gaming disorder symptom severity (the cross-lagged path from mindsets to gaming disorder: regression coefficients [b] with 95% CI [0.070, 0.020-0.12o, P=.006]; and from gaming disorder to mindsets: b with 95% CI [0.11, 0.060-0.160, P<.001]). Subgroup analyses of boy and girl participants revealed that more growth mindsets regarding self-control predicted less severe gaming disorder symptoms in girls (b=0.12, 95% CI 0.053-0.190, P=.001) but not in boys (b=0.025, 95% CI –0.050 to 0.100, P=.51), while more severe gaming disorder symptoms predicted a more fixed mindset of self-control in both boys (b=0.15, 95% CI 0.069-0.230, P<.001) and girls (b=0.098, 95% CI 0.031-0.170, P=.004) after 1 year.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrated the negative impact of gaming disorder on one’s self-control malleability beliefs and implied that promoting a growth mindset regarding self-control might be a promising strategy for gaming disorder prevention and early intervention, especially for girls.
EyeGPT for Patient Inquiries and Medical Education: Development and Validation of an Ophthalmology Large Language Model
Authors: Chen Xiaolan , Zhao Ziwei , Zhang Weiyi , Xu Pusheng , Wu Yue , Xu Mingpu , Gao Le , Li Yinwen , Shang Xianwen , Shi Danli , He Mingguang
Published: November 2024

Background

Large language models (LLMs) have the potential to enhance clinical flow and improve medical education, but they encounter challenges related to specialized knowledge in ophthalmology.

Objective

This study aims to enhance ophthalmic knowledge by refining a general LLM into an ophthalmology-specialized assistant for patient inquiries and medical education.

Methods

We transformed Llama2 into an ophthalmology-specialized LLM, termed EyeGPT, through the following 3 strategies: prompt engineering for role-playing, fine-tuning with publicly available data sets filtered for eye-specific terminology (83,919 samples), and retrieval-augmented generation leveraging a medical database and 14 ophthalmology textbooks. The efficacy of various EyeGPT variants was evaluated by 4 board-certified ophthalmologists through comprehensive use of 120 diverse category questions in both simple and complex question-answering scenarios. The performance of the best EyeGPT model was then compared with that of the unassisted human physician group and the EyeGPT+human group. We proposed 4 metrics for assessment: accuracy, understandability, trustworthiness, and empathy. The proportion of hallucinations was also reported.

Results

The best fine-tuned model significantly outperformed the original Llama2 model at providing informed advice (mean 9.30, SD 4.42 vs mean 13.79, SD 5.70; P<.001) and mitigating hallucinations (97/120, 80.8% vs 53/120, 44.2%, P<.001). Incorporating information retrieval from reliable sources, particularly ophthalmology textbooks, further improved the model's response compared with solely the best fine-tuned model (mean 13.08, SD 5.43 vs mean 15.14, SD 4.64; P=.001) and reduced hallucinations (71/120, 59.2% vs 57/120, 47.4%, P=.02). Subgroup analysis revealed that EyeGPT showed robustness across common diseases, with consistent performance across different users and domains. Among the variants, the model integrating fine-tuning and book retrieval ranked highest, closely followed by the combination of fine-tuning and the manual database, standalone fine-tuning, and pure role-playing methods. EyeGPT demonstrated competitive capabilities in understandability and empathy when compared with human ophthalmologists. With the assistance of EyeGPT, the performance of the ophthalmologist was notably enhanced.

Conclusions

We pioneered and introduced EyeGPT by refining a general domain LLM and conducted a comprehensive comparison and evaluation of different strategies to develop an ophthalmology-specific assistant. Our results highlight EyeGPT’s potential to assist ophthalmologists and patients in medical settings.
Sex-Specific Trends in the Prevalence of Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis From 2005 to 2021 in South Korea: Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Park Seoyoung , Son Yejun , Lee Hyeri , Lee Hayeon , Lee Jinseok , Kang Jiseung , Smith Lee , Rahmati Masoud , Dragioti Elena , Tully Mark A , Fond Guillaume , Boyer Laurent , Lee Jun Hyuk , Pizzol Damiano , Park Jaeyu , Woo Selin , Yon Dong Keon
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are prevalent chronic joint disorders, with prevalence rates varying by sex. However, few studies have comprehensively documented the factors contributing to the sex-specific prevalence of osteoarthritis and RA, including sociological factors and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to identify long-term trends in the sex-specific prevalence of osteoarthritis and RA from 2005 to 2021 while examining the factors that serve as vulnerabilities specific to each sex within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

Data were collected from a nationally representative sample of 110,225 individuals through the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2005 to 2021. The study included patients aged 19 years and older diagnosed with osteoarthritis or RA in South Korea. Data were analyzed using weighted trends to accurately represent the sample population, with a 95% CI. Weighted logistic and regression models were used to identify vulnerable groups at risk of osteoarthritis or RA during the pandemic to assess sex-specific trends.

RESULTS

In total, 110,225 individuals (n=48,410, 43.92% male participants) were analyzed from 2005 to 2021, with prevalence rates remaining stable over time and higher in female than in male participants. Notably, during the pandemic, female participants aged 60 years and older exhibited a prevalence of osteoarthritis that was 4.92 times greater than male participants and a prevalence of RA that was 6.44 times greater (osteoarthritis: prevalence ratio [PR] 69.78, 95% CI 41.66-116.88; RA: PR 17.27, 95% CI 8.75-34.07). In terms of osteoarthritis, male participants did not show a significant association with BMI (PR 1.40, 95% CI 1.21-1.61; P=.47), whereas female participants exhibited a significantly higher vulnerability within the obese group (PR 1.68, 95% CI 1.55-1.83; P<.001). Regarding RA, lower education levels were associated with increased vulnerability, with male participants showing a greater risk than female participants (male participants: PR 2.29, 95% CI 1.61-3.27 and female participants: PR 1.50, 95% CI 1.23-1.84).

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals that women in South Korea have a higher prevalence of osteoarthritis and RA than men. Understanding these sex-specific trends and identifying vulnerability factors can enhance preventive efforts and patient care.
Anxiety and Depression Disorders in Undergraduate Medical Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic: An Integrative Literature Review (Preprint)
Authors: Sartorao-Filho Carlos Izaias , Sartorao Ana Luisa Varrone
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic has triggered several challenges on the mental health worldwide. Undergraduate medical students face considerable stress in their academic routines. Thus, there is a need to explore the implications of the mental health of undergraduate medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

To review the global literature about anxiety and depression disorders in undergraduate medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

we developed an integrative literature review on the occurrence of anxiety and depression symptoms in undergraduate medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic. We assessed the results on the occurrence of anxiety and depression and the severity of symptoms in medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic using quantitative studies applying GAD-7 questionnaire for anxiety or PHQ-9 for depression.

RESULTS

We reviewed 85 selected studies and the results showed a significant prevalence of moderate and severe symptoms of anxiety and depression with 28.2% of participants presenting scores ≥ 10 on the GAD-7 and 38.9% on the PHQ-9. Statistical analyses revealed associations between higher rates of anxiety symptoms in developing countries and data collected after the lockdown period, in 2020, at the Pandemic lockdown.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the need for specific interventions to support the mental health of undergraduate medical students, critically in the developing countries during a Pandemic crisis.
Effectiveness of Digital Behavioral Activation Interventions for Depression and Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Jia Eric , Macon Jushawn J. , Doering Michelle , Abraham Joanna
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

As digital interventions gain prominence in mental health care, they present opportunities to improve access and scalability. Despite their potential, the overall impact of digital Behavioral Activation (BA) interventions across different formats and populations is not yet fully understood. Further research is necessary to evaluate their effectiveness across settings and optimize their application.

OBJECTIVE

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the characteristics and functions of digital BA interventions, evaluate their effects on patient outcomes, identify limitations, and highlight gaps in the existing research to guide future directions.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, APA PsycInfo, and ClinicalTrials.gov) identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness of digital BA interventions for depression and anxiety. Two independent reviewers screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Meta-analyses, using a random-effects model, were performed on outcomes such as depression, anxiety, quality of life (QoL), BA scores, functioning, disability, and stress. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated with the I² statistic. Six studies that did not meet meta-analysis criteria underwent narrative synthesis.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies were included, covering three intervention types: (1) internet-based BA (iBA), which delivers online therapies to foster new behavioral activities for depression management; (2) electronic messaging-based BA, involving prompts to support behavior change; and (3) telehealth-based BA, providing remote healthcare services. Of these, twelve studies were included in the meta-analysis. Digital BA interventions significantly reduced depressive symptoms at 2 months (p < 0.00001, I² = 0%), 3 months (p = 0.001, I² = 51%), and 6 months (p = 0.009, I² = 29%) post-treatment, but not at 12 months (p = 0.82, I² = 89%). BA scores showed significant improvement at 6 months (p < 0.00001, I² = 0%). QoL also improved significantly at 3 months (p = 0.002, I² = 22%) and 6 months (p = 0.009, I² = 0%), while stress levels were significantly reduced at 3 months (p = 0.0005, I² = 25%). Anxiety and functioning/disability outcomes did not show significant changes at 3 or 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Digital BA interventions offer meaningful short-to-medium-term benefits for alleviating depressive symptoms and improving QoL, though their impact diminishes by 12 months. Variations in intervention types, guidance levels, and treatment durations underscore the need for future studies to refine these interventions for specific populations. Further research should address the long-term effectiveness and disentangle the role of BA in multi-component approaches.
Assessing the impact of infertility on patient quality of life: a study based on social media in france (Preprint)
Authors: Mael-Ainin Mouna , Bouet Pierre-Emmanuel , Voillot Paméla , Malaab Joelle , Talmatkadi Manissa , Schück Stéphane , Massin Nathalie
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve a live birth after one year of regular sexual intercourse, affecting 1 in 6 couples in France. The use of ART for infertility issues has been steadily increasing in recent years, with in vitro fertilization being the most common type of ART. Infertility is frequently regarded as a significant life crisis for many individuals, potentially leading to depression, anxiety, social isolation, and sexual dysfunction. Couples experiencing infertility demonstrate a high prevalence of negative emotional responses and decreased life satisfaction as a result of infertility and its treatments. Social media have become key tools for finding and disseminating medical information.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the most discussed topics among patients with infertility and to characterize the impact of infertility and ART on their quality of life by analyzing social media data.

METHODS

This retrospective observational study includes French messages from patients in France discussing their infertility between 2019 and 2022. A Biterm Topic Model (BTM) algorithm capable of automatically identifying the different topics discussed was applied. A quality of life (QoL) algorithm classified the messages according to 5 dimensions: physical, psychological, activity-related, social and financial.

RESULTS

An analysis was carried out on a corpus of 26,919 messages written by 9,807 patients. The subjects most frequently discussed were the ART procedures, marked by miscarriages (21%), ovulation cycle monitoring (19%), and baby trials in relation to professional life (13%). Concerning the impact on quality of life, patients mainly expressed a physical impact (62%), particularly linked to miscarriages (59%). Psychological impact (52%), including fear and anxiety (61%), was also mentioned. The social dimension of infertility (11%) - notably its effects on married life (67%) - the financial burden of infertility treatments (9%), and the impact on activities (9%) were also addressed.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients facing infertility share their experiences on social media. We observed a strong impact on their quality of life, affecting their physical and psychological health, as well as their social, financial and professional lives. These results underline the importance of taking into account the multiple dimensions of infertility when caring for patients, and highlight the crucial role of social media in supporting and understanding this reality.

CLINICALTRIAL

Not applicable
Physical activity, heart rate and sleep before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in 34 countries (Preprint)
Authors: Wyatt Bastien , Forstmann Nicolas , Badier Nolwenn , Hamy Anne-Sophie , De Larochelambert Quentin , Antero Juliana , Danino Arthur , Vercamer Vincent , De Villele Paul , Vittrant Benjamin , Lanz Thomas , Reyal Fabien , Toussaint Jean-François , Delrieu Lidia
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted behavior within populations, affecting physical activity (PA), heart rate (HR) and sleep characteristics in particular.

OBJECTIVE

We analyzed the associations between the features of the COVID pandemic worldwide and PA, HR & sleep parameters, using data collected from wearable sensors over a three-year period.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of data obtained from the Withings Steel HR activity trackers of 208,818 individuals from 34 countries, from 2019 to 2022. Key metrics analyzed included daily step counts, average heart rate and sleep duration. The statistical methods used included descriptive analyses, time-trend analysis and mixed models evaluating the impact of restriction measures, controlling for potential confounders such as sex, age and seasonal variations.

RESULTS

We detected a significant decrease in physical activity, with a 12.3% reduction of daily step count over the three years. A 1.50% decrease in HR occurred during lockdowns, associated with the decrease in activity levels. In 2022, the global population had not returned to pre-pandemic physical activity levels, with a noticeable persistence of inactivity. Particularly, the proportion of sedentary individuals remained elevated compared to 2019, indicating that the impact of the pandemic on reducing physical activity has had lasting effects on populations worldwide. Sleep duration increased during restrictions, particularly in the countries with the most severe lockdowns.

CONCLUSIONS

The sustained decrease in physical activity and its physiological consequences highlight the need for public health strategies to mitigate the long-term effects of the measures taken during the pandemic. Despite the gradual lifting of restrictions, physical activity levels have not fully recovered, with lasting implications for global health. If similar circumstances arise in the future, priority should be given to measures for effectively increasing physical activity to counter the increase in sedentary behavior, mitigate health risks and prevent the rise of chronic diseases.
Limited Effectiveness of Consumer Grade Neurofeedback with Mindfulness Meditation: A Meta-Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Treves Isaac , Bajwa Zia , Greene Keara D , Bloom Paul A , Kim Nayoung , Wool Emma , Goldberg Simon B , Whitfield-Gabrieli Susan , Auerbach Randy P
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

There is burgeoning interest in the application of neuroscientific technology to facilitate meditation and lead to beneficial psychological outcomes. One popular approach is using consumer-grade neurofeedback devices to deliver feedback on brain targets during meditation (mindfulness-based neurofeedback; mbNF).

OBJECTIVE

To systematically review and meta-analyze the impacts of consumer-grade mbNF.

METHODS

Sixteen randomized controlled training trials, as well as 5 randomized within-subject designs were included (21 total), which examined effects on psychological distress, cognitive function, physiological health, mindfulness, and brain measures. Study risk of bias, reporting bias, and publication bias was assessed.

RESULTS

Samples were typically small, and the majority of studies employed mindfulness apps as controls. There was a modest effect for decreases in psychological distress compared to controls (g = -0.16). However, there was no evidence for improvements in cognition, mindfulness, physiological health compared to controls. Mechanistic modulation of brain targets was not found. Gender (male/female), age, clinical status, study quality, sample size, and neurofeedback duration did not moderate effects. There was some evidence for reporting bias, but no evidence of publication bias. Adverse effects were not assessed in 19/21 studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Assertions that consumer-grade devices can allow participants to modulate their brains and deepen their meditations are not currently supported. It is possible that neurofeedback effects may rely on neurosuggestion (placebo effects of neurotechnology). Future research should examine more extensive calibration and individualization of devices, larger sample sizes, and gold-standard sham-controlled RCTs.

CLINICALTRIAL

https://osf.io/8fz73
EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY IN GHANA: UNDERSTANDING THE CENTRALITY OF TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION IN THE CLASSROOM AND BEYOND
Authors: Manu, PhD Jacob , PhD Robert Ampomah, , Akyina, PhD Kwadwo Oteng , PhD Samuel Antwi,
Published: November 2024

The study aimed to conduct a systematic review of literature on the nature of technology integration in education. The researchers found five major areas in the literature that appeared to give policymakers guidance on how to incorporate technology into the teaching and learning process. These areas were understanding and using new technologies, funding of technologies in education, teacher preparedness in ICT integration, safeguarding ICT and perceived use in school as well as the impact of stakeholders in ICT integration. The study used the narrative review and documentary analysis approach in order to determine the essential factors of a successful technology integration strategy, examine the difficulties educators and learners have while utilising ICT in the classroom and offer recommendations on how to use technology to enhance learning outcomes. The study considered Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by Davis (1989) and the Diffusion of Innovations by Rogers (2003) as the theoretical framework. The study recommends that Ghanaian educational institutions must embrace and successfully integrate technology in the classroom and in larger educational contexts, given the growing reliance of society on digital tools resources. Again, infrastructure in technology such as computers and tablets, consistent internet connectivity, and backup power sources in places with erratic electricity, need to be given a priority by the government and educational stakeholders. Other priority actions required are prioritising community technology centres, giving low-income students access to subsidised internet connection, and supplying subsidised gadgets.
EVOLUTION OF THE PROCESS OF INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION OF PALESTINE
Authors:   Moscow State Institute of International Relations (University), Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Abdullayev H. P.
Published: November 2024

The relevance of the research topic is due to the steady desire of the Palestinian people for self-determination and the constant dynamics of changes in international law and politics. The problems of the article concern the understanding of the numerous and diverse factors affecting the process of international recognition of the State of Palestine. The purpose of the study is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the historical development and current state of recognition of Palestine as an independent state, as well as to provide an assessment of the consequences of this recognition for international relations and regional stability. As a methodological basis of the research, a historical approach is used, which allows tracing the chronology and continuity of key events, and a systematic approach that promotes a comprehensive study of the interaction between various aspects of the issue. The results of the study confirm that the recognition of Palestine in the international arena has gone a long way from a symbolic act to the acquisition of specific attributes of sovereignty. The key conclusions were the identification of the main stages and turning points in the recognition process, as well as an assessment of the impact of these events on international relations and the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. The author deeply and systematically explores the stages of the evolution of international recognition of Palestine, which opens new perspectives for understanding international politics and law.
THE ACTIVITY OF THE KALUGA SEARCH POST OF THE CENTRAL (MOSCOW) DISTRICT SECURITY DEPARTMENT IN THE STRUCTURE OF POLITICAL INVESTIGATION BODIES IN 1906 – 1907
Authors:   Kaluga State University named after K.E. Tsiolkovsky (Russia), Vlasov A.E., , Shtepa A.V. ,   Kaluga State University named after K.E. Tsiolkovsky (Russia)
Published: November 2024

The article publishes previously unknown data on the features of the structural organization of the political investigation in the Kaluga province, which was part of the Central District Security Department: a) the practice of hiring as detectives (surveillance agents), their number, class affiliation, the amount of monthly maintenance; b) the practice of internal agents (secret employees). The authors have established their nicknames, the exact number, party affiliation, the amount of salary received in the "okhrana"; c) perlustration of postal correspondence. Relying on a wide range of sources and rich archival material, the authors tried to determine the place of the Kaluga search post in the system of political investigation of the Russian Empire. The specifics of official contacts between the ranks of the general police and the gendarme officer who led the search and agency in Kaluga and the counties of the province are considered. The authors state the low result of the work of the surveillance service (detectives) and reveal the reason – the insufficient ability of the head of the search point, Captain N.M. Nikiforov, to understand people and his insufficient professional competence. In 1907 the quality of the work of the detective service has improved somewhat, but under the supervision of an experienced agent. The quality of the work of the internal agents (agents provocateurs) was better organized, which resulted in the prevention of an attempt on the life of Kaluga Governor A.A. Ofrosimov and the head of the Kaluga provincial gendarmerie department.
«NOVOYE VREMYA» NEWSPAPER ON MILITARY CENSORSHIP OF THE FIRST WORLD WAR (1914-1916).
Authors:   Academician I.G. Petrovskii Bryansk State University (Russia), Sviridova A. S.
Published: November 2024

The article analyses the materials of the Russian periodical press devoted to military censorship in the Russian Empire during the First World War. In order to form a holistic perception of the Russian press coverage of military censorship, the articles of the newspaper "Novoe Vremya" (1914-1916) were selected, systematised and analysed for the study. Newspaper materials of this period contained information about the process of adopting and adjusting the legislation on military censorship, about the peculiarities of the implementation of this direction of military and state activity in practice, about the work of military censors. One of the important problems of the study is to assess the possibilities of the periodical press to cover military events and express its opinion on the military censorship legislation. In connection with this goal, the article analyses the perception and reflection of the Russian press of the process of approval and implementation of military censorship legislation in the conditions of the First World War. The article also shows how the periodical press, which functioned under the censorship restrictions of the war period and remained one of the key sources of public opinion formation, tried to conduct a dialogue with the authorities on the problems of disseminating information about the events that took place.
Integrated Fuzzy Cognitive Map and Chaotic Particle Swarm Optimization for Risk Assessment of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Bhanu Sekhar OBBU  , Zamrooda JABEEN
Published: November 2024

Stroke diagnosis is an incredibly difficult process since it involves the interaction of both controllable and uncontrollable factors. The diagnosis of stroke is significantly influenced by these factors, which include a variety of factors such as age, blood pressure, gender, obesity, diabetes, smoking, and heart disease, amongst others. It is vital to develop an intelligent system that enables treatment to be administered in a timely and effective manner. This study discusses the application of the soft computing approach, more specifically fuzzy cognitive mapping (FCM), for the goal of estimating the possibility of patients suffering from an ischemic stroke. The chaotic particle swarm optimization technique has been utilized for the purpose of training the FCM training system. The consideration the opinions that were provided by neurologists in order to ascertain the risk rate that was associated with each individual. In order to a cross-validation with tenfold overlap was utilized. The results obtained from this method were compared to those obtained by support vector machine (SVM) and K-nearest neighbour computations, which were performed on 110 real-world observations. The proposed method demonstrated an exceptional level of performance, as seen by its overall accuracy of 94.6 percent and its standard deviation of 3.1 percent.
Emphasizing the Role of Diplomatic Agents for Repatriation of Ex-Foreign Terrorist Fighters (FTF): Study of Indonesia
Authors: Triyana Heribertus Jaka
Published: November 2024

Repatriation of the ex-Foreign Terrorist Fighters (FTFs) has been initiated since 2020 where many ex-Indonesians are trapped and scammed in the conflicting areas. These individuals, often branded as ex-nationals upon leaving their homelands, have engaged in violent conflicts in Syria, Iraq, and beyond. With ISIS’s territorial grip weakening, these ex-FTFs now attempt to return to their origin countries, such as Indonesia. The analysis in this paper is mainly constructed by the role and function of diplomatic and consular agents on their repatriation. They are directed to the existence of customary international law as the primary source of international law in order to find out the relevance of their repatriation. It provides a legal framework of analysis on how the state conducts dealing with these complex emergencies abroad on state protection to its own nation abroad. The clarity and robust guidance could reduce complex dilemmas for the governments in managing this repatriation. While some call for imprisonment or even elimination, repatriation highlights the crucial role of reintegration and rehabilitation programs. It underscores the legal responsibilities of states under international law, advocating for the protection of human rights while maintaining national public safety conducted by diplomatic and consular agents
Research data governance activities for implementation in Malaysia research performing organizations: insights from data practitioners via Delphi study
Authors: Rodhiah Hazmi Norzelatun , (Corresponding Author) Abrizah A. , Idaya A.M.K. Yanti
Published: November 2024

The rapid growth of research data and its influence on research practices has heightened global awareness of the significance of research data governance (RDG). However, there is a lack of literature explicitly outlining the implementation of RDG and the practices adopted by research performing organizations (RPOs). This study intends to bridge this gap by utilizing a three-round modified Delphi method, which involves a systematic solicitation and collection of feedback from a pool of experts comprising research data practitioners. This is accomplished through a series of carefully designed sequential surveys focused explicitly on RDG activities concerning tasks associated with governance roles, areas and decision domains within RPOs in Malaysia. The objective of this study is to develop consensus among research data practitioners on the importance of RDG activities. Statements were evaluated using a 5-point scale, and consensus was determined as an interquartile deviation (IQD) ≤ 0.5, a median ≥ 4, and a consensus level (CL) ≥ 85%. Analysis of the responses revealed a significant consensus among the experts on 106 out of 119 RDG task statements on various roles, nineteen areas, and eight decision domains deemed significant to the RDG implementation within RPOs. This study can potentially develop an RDG framework based on the consensus achieved. By providing an RDG framework that can be used as a set of best practices, this study can assist RPO leaders in considering implementing RDG and its efforts in their organizations.