bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An intranasal influenza virus-vectored vaccine blocks SARS-CoV-2 replication in respiratory tissues of mice and hamsters
Authors: Deng Shaofeng , Liu Ying , Tam Rachel , Chen Pin , Zhang Jinxia , Mok Bobo , Long Teng , Kukic Anja , Zhou Runhong , Xu Haoran , Song Wenjun , Chan Jasper , To Kelvin Kai-Wang , Chen Zhiwei , Wang Pui , Yuen Kwok-Yung , Chen Honglin
Published: July 2022

We have developed an intranasal vaccine candidate based on a live attenuated influenza virus (LAIV) with a deleted NS1 gene that encodes cell surface expression of the receptor-binding-domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, designated DelNS1-RBD4N-DAF. Immune responses and protection against virus challenge following intranasal administration of DelNS1-RBD4N-DAF vaccines were analyzed in mice and compared with intramuscular injection of the BioNTech BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine in hamsters. DelNS1-RBD4N-DAF LAIVs induced high levels of neutralizing antibodies against various SARS-CoV-2 variants in mice and hamsters and stimulated robust T cell responses in mice. Notably, vaccination with DelNS1-RBD4N-DAF LAIVs, but not BNT162b2 mRNA, blocked replication of SARS-CoV-2 variants, including Delta and Omicron BA.2, in the respiratory tissues of animals. The DelNS1-RBD4N-DAF LAIV system warrants further evaluation in humans for the control of SARS-CoV-2 transmission and, more significantly, for creating dual function vaccines against both influenza and COVID-19 for use in annual vaccination strategies.
Alzheimer’s Disease Risk Factors: APOE ε4 Allele and Traumatic Brain Injuries
Authors: Kim Dohyun
Published: July 2022

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder affecting millions of individuals worldwide. Understanding of the risk factors for Alzheimer's is in its preliminary stages, but researchers have recently made several advancements in searching for treatments for this damaging disorder. This paper aims to garner greater insight into two potential risk factors: APOE ε4 allele and Traumatic Brain injuries (TBIs), specifically their leverage on disease diagnosis through metrics measuring hallmarks of the disease: beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Data from the Allen Brain Institute was analyzed through statistical tests that included chi-squared, bar charts, stacked bar charts, two-way ANOVAs, and t-tests to deduce these risk factors' mechanisms in impacting Alzheimer's. From the analyses, it could be understood that the APOE ε4 allele is a significant genetic predisposition for this disease, although a causal relationship could not be determined. On the other hand, TBIs were found to play an additive role in the development of Alzheimer's, which was less significant than the APOE ε4 allele's role since there was a higher correlation between TBIs and non-Alzheimer's dementia, specifically neurofibrillary tangle predominant dementia (NFTPD). Analysis of risk factors provides a means for optimizing therapy by identifying and allocating resources more efficiently to those most vulnerable, as well as improved drug delivery through treatments that target biological pathways which initiate specific biomarkers formation.
WITHDRAWN: Effects of different factors on the heat conduction properties of graphene using molecular dynamics and electron microscopy
Authors: Chen Junjie
Published: July 2022

Understanding the physics behind the thermal transport at the nanoscale is critical to continued advances in the development and applications of graphene-based composite materials with enhanced thermal conductivity. However, the thermal transport characteristics of graphene have not yet been fully understood. This study relates to the physical factors limiting heat conduction in graphene. Computational simulations are performed using molecular dynamics to investigate the heat conduction properties of graphene. The effects of grain dimensions and edge states on the thermal conductivity of graphene are investigated. The intrinsic thermal conductivity of graphene is determined. The mechanism of phonon transport in graphene is discussed. The objective of this study is to investigate the effect of grain dimensions and edge states on the heat conduction properties of graphene so as to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the nanoscale thermal transport phenomena occurring within graphene. Particular focus is placed on the physical factors limiting heat conduction in graphene. The results indicated that graphene is of huge interest not only for physics and chemistry but also for other natural sciences. Graphene provides a bridge between materials science and some areas of fundamental physics. Graphene can be considered as a model system for studying two-dimensional physics and chemistry in general. Electrons in graphene have a very high mobility, which means that graphene could possibly be used in electronic applications. Electrons in graphene interact very strongly with photons in the visible light frequencies. Graphene has very high thermal conductivity and, therefore, could be used to remove heat from electronic circuits. Phonon transport within the monolayer graphene ribbon is not fully diffusive, and the thermal transport is dominated by the mechanism of diffusive-ballistic heat conduction. The edge termination states can significantly affect the thermal conductivity. The edge termination states can be tailored to provide desirable thermal properties. The phonon transport properties are enhanced and the probability of phonon-boundary scattering is reduced with substantially smooth edges. Irregularly shaped edges can lead to performance degradation.
Microplastic Fragments from Poultry Entrails in Wet Markets from South Caloocan, Philippines
Authors: Leon Lance Isaac D. , Bautista Isabela Marie R. , Deza Anne Gwyneth M. , Kok Jake Fernando F. , Mundo Erickson F. Del , VinceCruz-Abeledo Chona Camille
Published: July 2022

Microplastics (MPs) have been recorded in different ecosystems, posing the risk of disrupting natural processes in the environment and causing harm to organisms that ingest them. In the Philippines, MPs have been found on various coastlines, freshwater bodies, and both fresh and saltwater creatures. Furthermore, MPs have been observed to interact with human gut microbiota and pose toxic risks in mice guts. With this, the study aimed to examine the occurrence of MPs in the entrails of Gallus gallus domesticus, the domestic chicken, which is a staple food in the Philippines. Gizzards and intestines from samples collected in seven sites across South Caloocan, Philippines were isolated and digested with a 10% potassium hydroxide solution in a 60℃ oven overnight. The resulting filtrates were then scrutinised for microplastics with a compound microscope. Microplastic contamination was found in the intestines of chicken from five sites, and in the gizzards of chicken from three sites. An intensive literature review suggests that microplastics may have entered chickens directly from the food chain or through the contaminated feeds.
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG): Mapeamento e Análise de Clusters
Authors: Ribeiro Thiago de Luca , Antônio de Lima Anderson
Published: July 2022

Objetivo: O objetivo deste estudo foi mapear e analisar as principais correntes teóricas de base e de fronteira acerca da pesquisa internacional em Environmental, Social e Governance (ESG). Adicionalmente, também foram analisados quais autores, periódicos e países são mais ativos na pesquisa internacional de ESG.
Método: Foi efetuada uma análise bibliométrica focada em análises de cocitação e de acoplamento bibliográfico, com técnicas de análise fatorial exploratória e mapeamento gráfico através de clusterização. A amostra contemplou 405 artigos publicados até dezembro de 2021 e indexados no banco de dados Web of Science.
Resultados: Através da análise de cocitação, foram identificados 5 correntes de pesquisas, sendo a) Influência das Teorias Organizacionais na ESG; b) Competitividade organizacional; c) Impacto da ESG no desempenho financeiro; d) Responsabilidade Social Corporativa; e e) Teoria dos Stakeholders. Através da análise de pareamento, foram identificadas 6 correntes teóricas de fronteira, sendo: a) investimentos sustentáveis; b) Transparência e conselho administrativo; c) Efeitos da ESG; d) Relações entre desempenho financeiro e desempenho social corporativo; e) Relação entre acionistas e ESG; e f) Riscos e ESG.
Originalidade: Até onde se sabe, este é o estudo bibliométrico mais completo acerca da pesquisa em ESG, contemplando tanto as correntes teóricas de base quanto as de fronteira.
 Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas: Foram identificadas neste trabalho 5 correntes teóricas que ajudaram a fundar e desenvolver a pesquisa em ESG como campo científico (histórico) e apontadas 6 correntes teóricas emergentes que ajudam a entender para onde está avançando a pesquisa em ESG na atualidade (fronteira).
KURAMSAL YÖNLERİYLE BİLİŞSEL DİLBİLİM
Authors: DOHMAN Ümmügülsüm
Published: July 2022

XX. yüzyılın ikinci yarısından itibaren dilde insan merkezli yaklaşımların ortaya çıkmasıyla dil, bilişsel yaklaşımlar çerçevesinde incelenmeye başlanır. Dil, düşünce ve insan üçlüsünün birbirine sıkı sıkıya bağlı kavramlar olduğundan hareket eden bilişsel bilim araştırmacıları, insanın zihinsel süreçlerini incelerken düşünce ve bilinç yapısını ifade etme aracı olan dile yönelirler ve dolayısıyla bilişsel bilimler dilbilimle kesişir. XX. yüzyılın son yirmi yılında ruhbilim, felsefe, mantık, matematik gibi disiplinlerarası bilişsel bilimler kavşağında bilişsel dilbilim doğar. Bu makalenin çıkış noktası dünyada önemli bir çalışma alanına sahip bilişsel dilbilimin kuramsal yönü olan içeriği, anahtar kavramları, tarihsel gelişimi, amacı, görevleri ve yaklaşımlarıyla ilgili detaylı çalışmalara Türk literatüründe yeterince yer verilmemesidir. Bu çalışmada bilişsel dilbilim kuramsal açıdan ele alınacaktır. Çalışmanın yeniliği ve önemi ise bilişsel dilbilimin kuramsal çerçevesinin Rusça kaynaklar temelinde ana hatlarıyla tasvir edilecek olmasıdır. Araştırma yöntemi olarak betimleme ve karşılaştırmalı yöntem kullanılacaktır.
Synthesis of Curcumin Derivatives (2.5-Bis((E)-4-Hydroxy-3-Methoxy Benzylidine) Cyclopenta-1-On) from Vanillin and Its Activity Test Against Α-Glucosidase Enzymes
Authors: Martha Rahma Diyan , Danar Danar , Retnosari Rini
Published: July 2022

Synthesis of curcumin analogs (2.5-Bis((E)-4-Hydroxy-3-Methoxy Benzylidine) Cyclopenta-1-On) based on Claisen-Schmidt condensation using an acid catalyst and inhibition of glucosidase enzyme was carried out. The antidiabetic activity of curcumin analogs was carried out by the use of α-glucosidase enzyme from moldy rice (Oryza sativa). The curcumin analogs were synthesized by reacting the vanillin with cyclopentanone.  The structure of all products was confirmed by FTIR, GC-MS, 1H-13C-NMR spectrometers, and the activity enzyme. The results showed the curcumin analogs were yielded in 52.27%, respectively as yellowish-green solid. The inhibition test of the α-glucosidase enzyme showed that the curcumin analogs were the potential to inhibit the α-glucosidase enzyme with an inhibition percentage of about 94.26% in 5 mM.
Synthesis of Zeolite Based Material With Aluminum Sources from Used Beverage Cans for Hard Water Desalination
Authors: Musawwa Muhammad Miqdam , Ardiyanto Nova Restu Nur , Lestari Agil , Yusuf Ahmad Khoiruddin , Solehudin Mochamad
Published: July 2022

Hard water contains high mineral content, especially calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg). Hard water can cause health problems and damage to household appliances within a certain period of time. In this study, zeolite-based materials have been synthesized as adsorbent materials to reduce the concentration of Ca2+ and Mg2+ in the hard water obtained from Brondong district of Lamongan, East Java. Zeolite based material was synthesized with aluminum sources derived from beverage cans and silica from silica gel.  In this study, zeolite was prepared by microwave (ZM) and without the microwave method (ZNM). The amount of ZM was 10.8121 grams, or 99.1% of the yield, and ZNM was 10.5387 grams or 99.15% of the yield. The FTIR results indicate some characteristic peaks of T-O and T-O-T bonds (T = Si/Al) at 460, 670, 726, and 980–1100 cm1. The diffractogram show that ZNM is still dominated by silica-based materials, while ZM although it still shows dominant amorphous silica peaks, some characteristic zeolite peaks also appear. The SEM results show the shapes of agglomerated tiny particles for both materials. In this study, the synthesized zeolite can reduce the concentration of Ca2+ ions by 84–97% and Mg2+ ions by 23-51%. The optimal time obtained in this study was 30 minutes, while the optimal mass obtained was 0.5 grams for all materials.
Artificial aquifer recharge: systematic mapping study
Authors: Ousrhire Aicha , Ghafiri Abdessamad
Published: July 2022

Groundwater is one of the most important natural resources on the planet Earth. Nevertheless, many aquifers are overexploited especially in arid and semi-arid regions where groundwater is the only source of water supply as surface water resources are limited and insufficient to meet all water needs. The preservation of this resource is paramount to ensure its sustainability, hence the invention of the practice of artificial aquifer recharge (AAR), also known as managed aquifer recharge. It is a practice invented to supplement the replenishment of the aquifer with human-controlled methods to prevent groundwater levels from becoming too low due to over-abstraction. The objective of this paper is to structure the existing AAR literature, highlight the most recent stage and aspects that have been covered, and identify the open issues, knowledge gaps, aspects that require improvement, and the research trends in that field. To this end, a systematic mapping study has been conducted on the literature published about AAR from 2013 until 2015 to categorize and summarize the existing publications concerning the research in that field. Application of the systematic mapping study method resulted in 204 publications which are the relevant papers synthesized following exclusion and inclusion criteria and served to answer 7 research questions defined at the beginning of the study. The obtained results will serve as a basis for future research and will allow the development of a better understanding and a broad overview of this field to direct and guide future AAR projects.
Research on eco-environmental flow based on the improved holistic method and its application in Wei River Basin
Authors: Wei Na , Lu Kunming , Xie Jiancang , Yang Feng
Published: July 2022

Water use of the ecosystem in the Wei River has been greatly reduced because of fierce competition between social–economic and eco-environmental water use, which leads to serious eco-environmental issues. Stakeholder theory was applied to the water resources utilization, and an improved holistic method for determining the eco-environmental flow was proposed. Considering the principles of inflow of tributaries, water intake from key sections, water balance and eco-environmental function regionalization, the new method integrated several methods to determine the water demand for the sub-items of eco-environmental flow. The three-level management targets of eco-environmental flow were proposed based on the opinions of stakeholders. Taking Shaanxi Section of the Wei River as an example, the eco-environmental flow at different levels was given for five key sections. The results show that: (1) the improved holistic method integrates multiple methods and models, making the calculation results of eco-environmental flow more scientific and reasonable; (2) the three-level management targets of eco-environmental flow can adapt to development and change in practical applications, and are operable and dynamic; (3) as a representative of the public benefits of ecosystems, government participates in the discussion of stakeholders and better coordinates competition among stakeholders. The improved method provides a new idea and reference for comprehensively and scientifically promoting reservoir ecological regulation.
An enhanced method for the removal of methyl violet dye using magnetite nanoparticles as an adsorbent: Isotherm, kinetic and thermodynamic study
Authors: Tiwari Aditya Narayan , Tapadia Kavita , Thakur Chandrakant
Published: July 2022

A green method has been developed using Gilloy (Tinospora Cordifolia) shoot extract to synthesize magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs). A further modification of MNPs was performed using anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), to remove cationic dye methyl violet (MV) efficiently from the solution. As an adsorbent, SDS modified MNPs (SDS-MNPs) were tested for their ability to remove MV dye. Synthesized MNPs were characterized by ultra violet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In batch adsorption experiments, the effect of adsorbent dosage, initial dye concentration, time, and pH was evaluated. The maximum adsorption capacity of the adsorbent for MV dye was found to be 174.2 mg g−1. The adsorption of dye onto the adsorbent followed Langmuir's isotherm. It was shown that the adsorption kinetics of dyes obeyed pseudo-second-order kinetics. Using thermodynamic parameters, spontaneous and exothermic adsorption was determined. As synthesized nanoparticles are magnetic in nature, regeneration and reusability of MNPs were investigated.
Methods of Detection of MDR
Authors: Bisen Monish , Jyoti Anupam , Saxena Juhi
Published: July 2022

World health organization (WHO) has acknowledged the problem of multi drug resistance (MDR) bacteria as an endemic and widespread problem globally. MDR
in LMICs represents one of the biggest threats to global health and is one of the
greatest current challenges in infectious disease research. High mortality/morbidity
rates of MDR infections are mainly due to the lack of timely, rapid detection and
treatment of the causative pathogen. Molecular mechanism conferring MDR against
most common treatment options includes mutations in antibiotics’ susceptible genes at
one or many sites. A number of methods, including culture-based, nucleic acid-based
amplification of resistance conferring genes, and immunological based assays have
been developed to detect MDR. Each method has defined specificity, sensitivity and
time around to detect MDR infections in clinical settings.
Drug Discovery for MDR
Authors: Yadav Jyoti , Singh Nagendra , Jyoti Anupam , Srivastava Vijay Kumar , Sharma Vinay , Kaushik Sanket
Published: July 2022

Penicillin discovery has put forward great expectations and hope for the
treatment of several infectious diseases. Inappropriate and excess use of antibiotics has
led to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant (AMR) worldwide, which has become one
of the greatest threats to global health. However, in the late 1940s, after approval, mass
production (lead to reduced cost) and supply (lead to easy access to all people) led to
the emergence of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). A similar behavioral pattern
ensued as other classes of antibiotics were discovered (through increasing utilization to
resistance). Substandard infection control practices in public healthcare settings eased
the spread and transmission of resistant organisms and intensified antimicrobials'
effect. The healthcare community responded with two major programs – Infection
Control in the 1980s and Antimicrobial Stewardship (in the last decade). These
programs depend on the end-user; however, while the importance of such global
control and prevention programs cannot be disputed, these efforts alone are insufficient
against the advent of AMR. Also, drug discovery has suffered from a shortage of
exploitable bacterial target sites, leading to the slow evolution of novel potent drugs.
Recent Developments to Fight Multidrug Resistance (MDR) in Protozoa
Authors: Roy Mrinalini , Kaushik Sanket , Jyoti Anupam , Srivastava Vijay Kumar
Published: July 2022

This chapter focuses on the solutions to emerging multidrug resistance in the
major parasitic protozoa plaguing the world. These neglected pathogens have seized
the developing nations in a vice-like grip and are seeping into the industrialised world
with the dramatic increase in global travel. The alarming rise in resistance to most
antiparasitic drugs has left even the wealthiest nations vulnerable. Multidrug resistance
occurs to give a survival advantage to the parasite; it has been hastened by the
uncontrolled use of chemotherapeutics. This chapter categorises the recent
developments to overcome the MDR hurdle under different approaches. The synthesis
of novel organic compounds and high-throughput screenings of new chemical entities
are two major approaches. Protease and topoisomerase inhibitors of parasitic protozoa
prove as worthy drug targets. In-silico and proteomics-based methods also accelerate
drug discovery by creating potential drug libraries specific to tropical protozoa. A cost effective and rapid method of combating drug resistance is the repurposing of licensed
medicines. This approach also accounts for the established safety of drugs and high
commercial availability. Molecular advancements have introduced small interfering
RNAs (siRNAs) at preclinical levels as therapeutics functioning via a unique
mechanism. The nanoparticle and cell-penetrating peptides (CPP) based delivery of
siRNAs has facilitated a stable and low toxic way to silence genes providing
pathogenicity and resistance. This will help in reversing MDR and breathing new life
into the existing licensed antiprotozoal chemotherapies.
Bioprospección de receptores de insulina a partir de ARN mensajero en Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Hemiptera: Aphididae)
Authors: Cruz-Méndez Hever , Diego-García Elia , Liedo Pablo , Ruiz-Montoya Lorena
Published: July 2022

La supresión de moléculas de ácido ribonucleico mensajero (ARNm) mediante ARN interferente (ARNi) se ha propuesto como método de control de insectos plagas. El ARNi impide el desarrollo morfológico y funcional de los insectos y se considera altamente específico. En este estudio se buscaron receptores de insulina (InR) en Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Hemiptera: Aphididae) a partir del ARNm de pulgones, como primer paso para el diseño posterior de ARNi dirigido a la supresión de InR. A partir del ácido desoxirribonucleico complementario (ADNc) y mediante PCR anidada, se amplificó la región correspondiente a InR con dos pares de cebadores diseñados para Nilaparvata lugens (Homoptera: Delphacidae). No se logró identificar InR, en su lugar se predice la presencia de la proteína receptora Dip2A de unión a folistatina (FS) debido a que comparten regiones proteicas similares con los InR, involucradas en la traducción de señales en los insectos. Se sugiere continuar con la búsqueda de InR específicos para el pulgón, así como posibles cebadores para regiones de Dip2A, para lograr un ARNi altamente específico.
CONTROL OF VARIATION ORDERS IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS IN MALAYSIA
Authors: Mohammad Noraziah , Hamzah Zabidi , Mokhtar Noor Aisyah
Published: July 2022

Variation orders are a frequent occurrence in the construction phase of Malaysian building projects. Increased construction time and costs are inevitable when variation orders appear. The aim of the current research is to identify the effectiveness of a "cost and time model" in controlling variation orders during the construction of residential projects in Malaysia. The model was derived from a literature review, which also examined how case studies and data have been utilised to identify the causes and effects of variation orders. These were analysed using multiple linear regression analysis. Three independent variables were identified as significant positive causes, while two dependent variables were determined to be the effects of a variation order. The independent variables signify the owner’s changes to the scope of work, construction materials and procedures, as well as their modifications to the specifications. The cost and duration of the project is the dependent variables. The model developed was found to be suitable in practice and the authors propose its application in the early stages of residential construction projects to control the occurrence of variation orders in such projects in Malaysia.
WHAT MAKES AN ATTRACTIVE USER-FRIENDLY STREET? EXPLORING PERCEPTIONS OF MAWLAWI SHOPPING STREET ENVIRONMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF SULAYMANIYAH CITY, IRAQ
Authors: Khalaf Omar Abdulwahhab , Ja`afar Nor Haslina , Harun Nor Zalina , Mohammed Noraziah , Ali Omar Hussein
Published: July 2022

Streets are one of the vital components of an urban form that supports the city dwellers’ public and private activities. Therefore, the purpose of attraction is necessary for persuading people to use the street and presenting the image of the city. Thus, the problem statement of this paper is that attractiveness of the shopping street decreases due to the presence of too much traffic management, and an uncomfortable environment attributed to an over-presence of traffic lights. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to determine the attraction factors associated with the user-friendliness of the shopping streets. This paper uses a case study approach of Mawlawi Street in Sulaymaniyah city in Iraq. The methodology used is the quantitative method via a survey of users (n = 330). The data were analysed statistically by SPSS using the mean values. The results show that the cultural attraction factor is the strongest form that contributes to people using the shopping street with a mean value of 3.1446. It is expected that the findings from this study will help designers, urban planners and policymakers to understand the needs and attitudes of users towards creating an attractive userfriendly shopping street environment in Iraq.
THE ARCHITECTURAL STYLE WHICH ATTRACTS PEOPLE TO THE TRADITIONAL URBAN VILLAGE: KAMPONG BHARU AS A CASE STUDY
Authors: Ibrahim Nur Athirah , Ja’afar Nor Haslina , Abdul Malek Mohd Iskandar , Mokhtar Noor Aisyah
Published: July 2022

The traditional village is one of the urban design typologies where its survival depends on its success in attracting people. The number of people visiting an area can be considered as one of the factors used in assessing the overall success of a place. However, due to rapid urbanisation, the unique character of traditional villages in urban areas or cities can be seen as outdated or considered as not worth preserving. Thus, this paper aims to identify the buildings within a village that can create a character for the area, and which act as important physical elements that contribute towards the success of a traditional village in an urban setting. This case study was conducted in Kampong Bharu, Kuala Lumpur, and a mixedmethod approach was used involving personal observations, in-depth interviews, and questionnaires with 330 respondents. The result revealed that buildings, as a physical element, play an essential role in attracting people to Kampong Bharu. Thus, this element should be considered for preservation in any regeneration programme targeted at existing traditional villages which are located in urban settings.
PEOPLE’S AGES AND THE EFFECTIVENESS OF USING ACTIVITIES IN THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT OF COMMERCIAL STREETS
Authors: Khalaf Omar Abdulwahhab , Ja`afar Nor Haslina , Harun Nor Zalina , Bayaty No’man , Mohammed Noraziah
Published: July 2022

Streets are the most public of all city spaces and are utilised by all users. Therefore, activities are vital in persuading people to use the streets and in presenting the image of the city. The relation between people’s ages and the used activities of the commercial streets has declined due to the poor physical environments in the local context. Streets have become progressively unpleasant, unsuitable in terms of functions, and have also become a disagreeable environment. This represents the problem statement of this research. The objective of this paper is to examine the relationship between activities on commercial streets and the different age groups of the users. This study focuses on the local context of Mawlawi Street, which is one of the major shopping streets in Sulaymaniyah city centre, Iraq. This paper used a quantitative methodology via a survey of users (n = 330). The data were analysed using frequency, mean value, percentage, and chi-square statistics. The results show that cultural activities were the most important for its users, while social activities were the least important, with businesses in the middle. The majority of the users were in the young-adults age category. The research gives a good overview of the types of activities which encourage high street usage, and which activities need to be improved or added.
INVESTIGATING THE AWARENESS AMONG POTENTIAL HOMEBUYERS TOWARDS ELEMENTS OF GREEN RESIDENTIAL BUILDING
Authors: Mazli Muhammad Firdaus , Fauzi Nurul Sahida
Published: July 2022

The number of green residential buildings in Malaysia is on the rise trend. However, there is an imbalance in the amount of green residential buildings available in main cities. Why do things like this happen? Is there a lower demand for green residential buildings in Malaysia's other main cities? Are potential homebuyers aware of the elements of green residential buildings? Therefore, this research was conducted to identify the demand for green residential building and to investigate potential homebuyers' awareness towards the elements of green residential building. The city of Ipoh, Perak, was chosen as the study's focal point, and Ipoh residents with good professions were chosen as respondents. This is because Ipoh has less green residential buildings than some other cities in Malaysia. A quantitative approach was adopted. A total of 384 responses were accepted for analysis. The collected data were analyzed using frequency analysis and the relative importance index (RII). According to the data, the majority of potential homebuyers in Ipoh, Perak, are aware on the elements of green residential building and are willing to purchase it in the future. This indicates that this residential concept is in high demand in the Ipoh market. Ipoh residents are also well aware of the elements of a green residential building. Hence, developers and the state authority would be able to increase the number of green residential developments in Ipoh.
Modelo productivo para el cultivo de cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) en el departamento de Santander (2a edición)
Authors: Jaimes Suárez Yeirme Yaneth , Agudelo Castañeda Genaro Andrés , Báez Daza Eliana Yadira , Montealegre Bustos Felipe , Rengifo Estrada Gersaín Antonio , Rojas Molina Jairo
Published: July 2022

Santander es el primer productor de cacao en Colombia y con un rendimiento promedio de 600 kg/ha de cacao seco, superior a otros departamentos. Sin embargo, esos indicadores de productividad no le garantizan una rentabilidad, ni la sostenibilidad que permita que la producción de cacao sea aspiracional para todos los jóvenes rurales que emigran a la ciudad en búsqueda de alternativas productivas, ya que no hay una mejora en su calidad de vida. Estamos seguros de que productores juiciosos, dedicados y que aplican la tecnología disponible para el sector cacaotero tienen rendimientos superiores a los 1.500 kg/ha de cacao seco que hacen rentable el sistema productivo. Todo se hace utilizando las técnicas y los conocimientos adecuados que han aprendido a través de la experiencia y de las capacitaciones con las diferentes instituciones del sector, como Fedecacao y agrosavia. Por ello, este modelo productivo les ofrece la oferta tecnológica disponible que se requiere para generar un cambio en el manejo de las plantaciones y dar respuesta a los desafíos que afronta la cacaocultura a nivel mundial. En los once capítulos de este documento podrá encontrar información útil para el manejo de cacaos finos de sabor y aroma bajo sistema agroforestal (SAF).
Usability and Acceptability of a Palliative Care Mobile Intervention for Older Adults With Heart Failure and Caregivers: Observational Study
Authors: Villalobos Jennifer Paola , Bull Sheana Salyers , Portz Jennifer Dickman
Published: July 2022

Background

Heart failure is a leading cause of death among older adults. Digital health can increase access to and awareness of palliative care for patients with advanced heart failure and their caregivers. However, few palliative care digital interventions target heart failure or patients’ caregivers, family, and friends, termed here as the social convoy. To address this need, the Social Convoy Palliative Care (Convoy-Pal) mobile intervention was developed to deliver self-management tools and palliative care resources to older adults with advanced heart failure and their social convoys.

Objective

The goal of the research was to test the acceptability and usability of Convoy-Pal among older adults with advanced heart failure and their social convoys.

Methods

Convoy-Pal includes tablet-based and smartwatch tools facilitating self-management and access to palliative care resources. Older adults and social convoy caregivers completed an acceptability and usability interview via Zoom, including open-ended questions and the Mobile Application Rating Scale: User Version (uMARS). Descriptive analysis was conducted to summarize the results of open-ended feedback and self-reported acceptability and usability.

Results

A total of 26 participants (16 older adults and 10 social convoy caregivers) participated in the interview. Overall, the feedback from users was good (uMARS mean 3.96/5 [SD 0.81]). Both older adults and social convoy caregivers scored information provided by Convoy-Pal the highest (mean 4.22 [SD 0.75] and mean 4.21 [SD 0.64], respectively). Aesthetics, functionality, and engagement were also perceived as acceptable (mean >3.5). Open-ended feedback resulted in 5 themes including improvements to goal setting, monitoring tools, daily check-in call feature, portal and mobile app, and convoy assessment.

Conclusions

Convoy-Pal was perceived as acceptable with good usability among older adults with heart failure and their social convoy caregivers. With good acceptability, Convoy-Pal may ultimately lead to increased access to palliative care resources and facilitate self-management among older adults with heart failure and their social convoy caregivers.
Wearables for Measuring Health Effects of Climate Change–Induced Weather Extremes: Scoping Review
Authors: Koch Mara , Matzke Ina , Huhn Sophie , Gunga Hanns-Christian , Maggioni Martina Anna , Munga Stephen , Obor David , Sié Ali , Boudo Valentin , Bunker Aditi , Dambach Peter , Bärnighausen Till , Barteit Sandra
Published: July 2022

Background

Although climate change is one of the biggest global health threats, individual-level and short-term data on direct exposure and health impacts are still scarce. Wearable electronic devices (wearables) present a potential solution to this research gap. Wearables have become widely accepted in various areas of health research for ecological momentary assessment, and some studies have used wearables in the field of climate change and health. However, these studies vary in study design, demographics, and outcome variables, and existing research has not been mapped.

Objective

In this review, we aimed to map existing research on wearables used to detect direct health impacts and individual exposure during climate change–induced weather extremes, such as heat waves or wildfires.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review according to the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) framework and systematically searched 6 databases (PubMed [MEDLINE], IEEE Xplore, CINAHL [EBSCOhost], WoS, Scopus, Ovid [MEDLINE], and Google Scholar). The search yielded 1871 results. Abstracts and full texts were screened by 2 reviewers (MK and IM) independently using the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria comprised studies published since 2010 that used off-the-shelf wearables that were neither invasive nor obtrusive to the user in the setting of climate change–related weather extremes. Data were charted using a structured form, and the study outcomes were narratively synthesized.

Results

The review included 55,284 study participants using wearables in 53 studies. Most studies were conducted in upper–middle-income and high-income countries (50/53, 94%) in urban environments (25/53, 47%) or in a climatic chamber (19/53, 36%) and assessed the health effects of heat exposure (52/53, 98%). The majority reported adverse health effects of heat exposure on sleep, physical activity, and heart rate. The remaining studies assessed occupational heat stress or compared individual- and area-level heat exposure. In total, 26% (14/53) of studies determined that all examined wearables were valid and reliable for measuring health parameters during heat exposure when compared with standard methods.

Conclusions

Wearables have been used successfully in large-scale research to measure the health implications of climate change–related weather extremes. More research is needed in low-income countries and vulnerable populations with pre-existing conditions. In addition, further research could focus on the health impacts of other climate change–related conditions and the effectiveness of adaptation measures at the individual level to such weather extremes.
Nurses’ Experiences After Implementation of an Organization-Wide Electronic Medical Record: Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Jedwab Rebecca M , Manias Elizabeth , Hutchinson Alison M , Dobroff Naomi , Redley Bernice
Published: July 2022

Background

Reports on the impact of electronic medical record (EMR) systems on clinicians are mixed. Currently, nurses’ experiences of adopting a large-scale, multisite EMR system have not been investigated. Nurses are the largest health care workforce; therefore, the impact of EMR implementation must be investigated and understood to ensure that patient care quality, changes to nurses’ work, and nurses themselves are not negatively impacted.

Objective

This study aims to explore Australian nurses’ postimplementation experiences of an organization-wide EMR system.

Methods

This qualitative descriptive study used focus group and individual interviews and an open-ended survey question to collect data between 12 and 18 months after the implementation of an EMR across 6 hospital sites of a large health care organization in Victoria, Australia. Data were collected between November 2020 and June 2021, coinciding with the COVID-19 pandemic. Analysis comprised complementary inductive and deductive approaches. Specifically, reflexive thematic analysis was followed by framework analysis by the coding of data as barriers or facilitators to nurses’ use of the EMR using the Theoretical Domains Framework.

Results

A total of 158 nurses participated in this study. The EMR implementation dramatically changed nurses’ work and how they viewed their profession, and nurses were still adapting to the EMR implementation 18 months after implementation. Reflexive thematic analysis led to the development of 2 themes: An unintentional divide captured nurses’ feelings of division related to how using the EMR affected nurses, patient care, and the broader nursing profession. This time, it’s personal detailed nurses’ beliefs about the EMR implementation leading to bigger changes to nurses as individuals and nursing as a profession than other changes that nurses have experienced within the health care organization. The most frequent barriers to EMR use by nurses were related to the Theoretical Domains Framework domain of environmental context and resources. Facilitators of EMR use were most often related to memory, attention, and decision processes. Most barriers and facilitators were related to motivation.

Conclusions

Nurses perceived EMR implementation to have a mixed impact on the provision of quality patient care and on their colleagues. Implementing technology in a health care setting was perceived as a complex endeavor that impacted nurses’ perceptions of their autonomy, ways of working, and professional roles. Potential negative consequences were related to nursing workforce retention and patient care delivery. Motivation was the main behavioral driver for nurses’ adoption of EMR systems and hence a key consideration for implementing interventions or organizational changes directed at nurses.
Virtual Reality Augmented Physiotherapy for Chronic Pain in Youth: Protocol for a randomized controlled trial enhanced with single case experimental design (Preprint)
Authors: Simons Laura E , Hess Courtney Wynne , Choate Ellison S , Van Orden Amanda Rose , Tremblay-McGaw Alexandra Georgina , Menendez Maria , Boothroyd Derek B , Parvathinathan Gomathy , Griffin Anya , Caruso Thomas Jon , Stinson Jennifer , Weisman Amy , Liu Tim , Christensen Rachel , Koeppen Kurt
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Chronic musculoskeletal (MSK) pain is a prominent health concern, resulting in pain-related disability, loss of functioning and high healthcare costs. Physiotherapy rehabilitation is a gold standard treatment for improving functioning in youth with chronic MSK. However, increasing physical activity can feel unattainable for many adolescents due to pain related fear and movement avoidance. Virtual reality (VR) offers an immersive experience that can interrupt the fear-avoidance cycle and improve engagement in physiotherapy. Despite promising initial findings, data are limited and often lack the rigor required to establish VR as an evidence-based treatment for MSK pain.

OBJECTIVE

This trial evaluates pain rehabilitation virtual reality (PRVR) for adolescents with MSK pain. This protocol paper outlines the rationale, design, and implementation of a two-group randomized control trial (RCT) enhanced with Single Case Experimental Design (SCED). The objective of this RCT is to test this advancement in VR technology by providing new treatment solutions targeting nonpharmacological movement facilitation.

METHODS

Primary outcomes include physical function and engagement in VR. Secondary outcomes include pain-related fear and treatment adherence.

RESULTS

Significant breakthroughs for treating MSK pain require mechanistically informed innovative approaches. PRVR provides exposure to progressive challenge, real-time feedback, reinforcement for movement and can include activities difficult to achieve in the real world. It has the added benefits of sustaining patient motivation and adherence while enabling clinicians to use objective benchmarks to influence progression.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings will inform the decision of whether to proceed with a hybrid effectiveness-dissemination trial of PRVR, serving as the basis for potential large-scale implementation of PRVR.

CLINICALTRIAL

NCT04636177
Effectiveness of an Online Intervention to Prevent Anxiety in the Children of Anxious Parents: A Study Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial. (Preprint)
Authors: Dunn Abigail , Alvarez James , Arbon Amy , Bremner Stephen , Elsby-Pearson Chloe , Emsley Richard , Jones Christopher , Lawrence Peter , Lester Kathryn J , Majdandžić Mirjana , Morson Natalie , Perry Nicky , Simner Julia , Cartwright-Hatton Samantha
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Anxiety is the most common childhood mental health condition and is associated with impaired child outcomes, including increased risk of mental health difficulties in adulthood. Anxiety runs in families: when a parent has anxiety, their child has a 50 per cent higher chance of developing it themselves. Environmental factors are predominant in the intergenerational transmission of anxiety and, of these, parenting processes play a major role. Interventions that target parents to support them to limit the impact of any anxiogenic parenting behaviours are associated with reduced anxiety in their children. A brief UK-based group-based intervention delivered to parents within the UK National Health Service led to a 16 per cent reduction in children meeting criteria for an anxiety disorder. However, this intervention is not widely accessible. To widen access, a nine-module online version of this intervention has been developed. This course comprises psychoeducation and home practice delivered through text, video, animations, and practice tasks.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility of delivering a brief online intervention for parents and assess its effectiveness in reducing child anxiety symptoms.

METHODS

A randomised controlled trial (RCT) of a community sample of 1,754 parents with self-identified high levels of anxiety with a child aged 2-11. Parents in the intervention arm to receive access to the online course, which they undertake at a self-determined rate. The control arm receives no intervention. Follow-up data collection at 6 and 9-21 months. Intention to treat analysis will be conducted on outcomes including child anxiety, child mental health symptoms and wellbeing; parental anxiety, wellbeing; and parenting behaviours.

RESULTS

Funded in April 2020, recruitment started in February 2021 and projected to end October 2022.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the RCT will provide evidence on the utility of an online course in preventing intergenerational transmission of anxiety and increase understanding of familial anxiety.

CLINICALTRIAL

Prospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.Gov NCT04755933 on Feb 16th 2021.
Patterns in the use of heart failure telemonitoring: A post-hoc analysis of the e-Vita HF trial (Preprint)
Authors: Brons Maaike , ten Klooster Iris , van Gemert-Pijnen Lisette , Jaarsma Tiny , Asselbergs Folkert W. , Oerlemans Marish I.F.J. , Koudstaal Stefan , Rutten Frans H.
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Research of use and adherence to home telemonitoring data can provide new insights into telemonitoring for daily management of patients with heart failure (HF).

OBJECTIVE

We described the use of a telemonitoring platform, including remote patient monitoring (RPM) of blood pressure, pulse, and weight, and the use of the electronic personal health record (PHR). Patient characteristics were assessed in both adherent and non-adherent patients to weight transmissions.

METHODS

A post-hoc analysis of the e-Vita HF trial, a three-arm parallel-randomized trial performed in stable HF patients managed in outpatient clinics in the Netherlands. In this study, data were analysed of the participants in the intervention arm (e-Vita HF platform). Adherence to weight transmissions was defined as ≥ 3 times/week for at least 42 weeks during a year.

RESULTS

Data of 150 patients (mean age 67 ± 11 years, 25% female, 82% NYHA class I-II) were analysed. One year adherence to weight transmissions was 74%. Patients adherent to weight transmissions were less often hospitalized for HF in the six months before enrolment in the study than those non-adherent (8% vs. 23%, p=0.021). The percentage of patients visiting the PHR dropped steadily over time (93% versus 39% at one year). With univariable analyses there was no significant correlation between patient characteristics and adherence to weight transmissions.

CONCLUSIONS

Adherence to RPM was high among stable HF patients, and best for weighing, however, with adherence decreasing over time. Clinical and demographic variables seem not related to adherence to transmitting weight.

CLINICALTRIAL

NCT01755988.