bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrographic climatology of the South Brazil Bight continental shelf and slope
Authors: Sasaki Dalton Kei , Silva Danilo , Del-Giovannino Sergio Rafael , Dottori Marcelo , Silvera Ilso Carlos Almeida da , Belo Wellington Ceccopieri , martins Renato Parkinson
Published: November 2023

A regional climatology of the subtropical area along the South Brazil Bight is created in order to establish the seasonal average hydrographic conditions over the continental shelf and slope. A multiscale objective analysis with a potential vorticity constraint is used with historical hydrographic temperature and salinity profiles from different databases. Relative the World Ocean Atlas 2018, the interpolation produced improved results, which were evaluated by comparing the surface fields with satellite data, and also with sea surface elevation simulated with the Regional Ocean Model System (ROMS). ROMS '3D currents showed that the temperature and salinity fields support the presence of both Brazil Current and its seasonal variability, the Intermediate Western Boundary current, along with recurrent features such as the Cape Frio (cyclonic) Eddy, and remotely generated Agulhas (anticyclonic) Rings. Cape Frio Eddy structure favours the onshore transport of the South Atlantic Central Water (SACW) in the bottom layer along the northeastern area (23 $^\circ$ S) of the shelf break. On the continental shelf, features such as the seasonal uplifting of SACW and the mid-depth intrusions of Tropical Water beneath the Coastal Water (CW) are correctly described. CW can be subdivided into a spicy (austral summer/autumn) and minty (austral winter/spring) subgroups, with the second being influenced by the Subtropical Shelf Water coming from the continental shelf along Argentina and Uruguay, where Rio de La Plata is diluted in the shelf waters.
Factors Associated with Gaps in Naloxone Knowledge: Evidence from a 2022 Great Plains Survey
Authors: Cooper-Ohm Spencer , Habecker Patrick , Humeniuk Ryan , Bevins Rick A.
Published: November 2023

Background
The rising prevalence of fast-acting opioids in the United States suggests the increased need for non-first responder administration of naloxone. Effective administration of naloxone during an overdose requires that bystanders are familiar with, have access to, and know how to use naloxone.
Methods
Drawing on the 2022 Nebraska Annual Social Indicators survey, we analyzed naloxone familiarity, access, and competency to administer among a statewide, address-based sample of Nebraskan adults.
Results
There were significant gaps in naloxone knowledge in Nebraska. Although 75.6% of respondents were familiar with naloxone, only 18.6% knew how to access naloxone and 17.6% knew how to use naloxone. We find that more frequent religious service attendance is associated with lower odds of naloxone familiarity. Among those familiar with naloxone, a higher perception of community stigma towards opioids generally is associated with lower odds of naloxone access and competency. Higher perception of community stigma towards heroin, methamphetamines, and cocaine, however, is associated with higher odds of naloxone access. Finally, past overdose experience, lifetime illicit opioid use, being close to a person who uses opioids, and having access to illicit opioids was not significantly associated with naloxone familiarity, access, or competency among respondents in Nebraska’s two largest cities, Omaha and Lincoln. Outside of these cities, past overdose experience and access to illicit opioids was associated with higher odds of naloxone access and competency, but lifetime opioid use and being close to a person who uses opioids had no effect.
Conclusions
Our findings highlight the continued need for education on naloxone with a specific focus on access and competency to further reduce opioid-related overdose deaths. Education campaigns targeted at places of worship or individuals close to people who use opioids may further serve those with a lower likelihood of naloxone familiarity and promote knowledge of naloxone among those with higher odds of encountering an overdose. Further work is needed to understand differences in the relationship between substance-specific perceived stigma and its association with naloxone access.
Retinopathy of prematurity risk predictors in peripheral avascular retina after intravitreal ranibizumab treatment: Vasculogenesis analysis Running Title: Predictors for Retinopathy Recurrence Post-Ranibizumab
Authors: Chen Jin-Guo , Xiong Li-Chun , Ruan Guan-Yu , Hu Jian-Zhang
Published: November 2023

The predictors of risk for peripheral avascular areas (PAR) in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) after intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR) monotherapy is still unknown.
This retrospective study included 64 infants (118 eyes) who developed type 1 ROP and received IVR between July 2019 and March 2021. Retinal vascular outgrowth speed (RVOS) was assessed by measuring the disc diameter (DD) 2 months post-IVR. Potential risk factors were identified to develop a predictive nomogram model for PAR. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was performed to determine the clinical utility of the nomogram model. Mean RVOS was 0.9±0.6 DD/month in all eyes 2 months post-IVR; RVOS in the treated eyes was higher than that in the non-treated eyes. Completed retinal vascularization was detected in 69 eyes (58.5%) and persistent PAR in 49 eyes (41.5%). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that postnatal age (PNA) at IVR, ROP lesion’s cumulative clock hours (ROP_CCH), RVOS after IVR, and lesion severity were independent risk factors for PAR. DCA showed the nomogram model provides a fine net benefit. These data showed that IVR treatment accelerates RVOS. Further, RVOS is inversely related to PAR. The proposed nomogram model can potentially be effective in the individualized prediction of PAR after IVR.
Use of water quality index and DRASTIC index correlation for better assessment of groundwater vulnerability to pollution: a case study
Authors: Chaudhary Jatin , Singh K. K.
Published: November 2023

DRASTIC method's vulnerability assessment for estimating the potential risk of contamination in shallow groundwater aquifers is the most acceptable technique. The method uses seven parameters, namely, depth to groundwater table, net recharge, aquifer media, soil media, topography, land use and land cover, and hydraulic conductivity to obtain vulnerability index values. These index values are validated with one or a few elements of water characteristics as pollution indicators. In most of the reported studies, the correlation coefficient between the DRASTIC index and the concentration of individual element(s) was low. The present study uses the water quality index (WQI) to correlate with the DRASTIC index value. In this paper, 11 physical and chemical water characteristics data of 31 well locations within the Faridabad District of Haryana, India are utilized to estimate the WQI. The correlation coefficients for single element concentration with DRASTIC index vary between the range of 0.104 to 0.304. The correlation coefficients for the concentration of NO3- and WQI are found to be 0.104 and 0.533, respectively. Thus, the DRASTIC index demonstrates a stronger correlation with the WQI when compared to single element concentration.
Aggression Mediates Relationships between Social Media Addiction and Adolescents’ Wellbeing
Authors: Rustamov Elnur , Aliyeva Matanat , Rustamova Narinj , Nuriyeva Ulkar Zalova , Nahmatova Ulviyya
Published: November 2023

Background:

Digital technologies have an important role in human behavior and well-being.

Aim:

The study aimed to investigate the mediation role of aggression in the relationship between social media addiction and mental well-being.

Methods:

The study participants comprised 1354 adolescents, of whom 808 were female and 546 were male. The mean age of the participants was 14.12 (SD= 1.51). Data were gathered via the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale, Buss Perry Aggression Questionnaire, and Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale.

Results and Discussion:

The results of the study demonstrated aggression to partially mediate the relationship between social media addiction and mental well-being. Hence, it can be said that social media addiction negatively predicts mental well-being through aggression.

Conclusion:

As a result, mental health professionals should take into account the role of social media addiction and aggression when they work with adolescents who need help to improve their mental well-being.
Intimate Partner Violence among Married Couples in India: A Systematic Review
Authors: Shikhila T. , Kanth Barani
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Intimate partner violence (IPV) among married couples is an area of concern in the current scenario in India. It is an important public health issue that substantially affects a person’s mental and physical health. Thus, in this systematic review, we aim to review and analyze the previous literature on the antecedents, consequences, and intervention studies on IPV conducted in India.

Methods:

We conducted a literature search on the following network databases: APA PsycNet, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect. We selected 47 studies potentially relevant articles published from 2000 to 2023 for detailed evaluation. The systematic review was done adhering to PRISMA guidelines.

Results:

Our results indicated that very few studies are conducted in the Indian cultural context that explored the issues of IPV. There are various demographic, cultural, and individual factors acting as risk factors for perpetrating IPV in India. Studies also show a significant impact of IPV on mental and physical health. Additionally, very few interventional studies have been conducted to prevent or reduce IPV in India. From the study results, we can infer that there is a need to adapt or develop indigenous interventions for IPV in India.

Conclusion:

Considering the aspects discussed in the present study, we understood that IPV is a major, widely prevalent, under-recognized issue in India. So, the study implies a necessity for conducting more research in the Indian cultural context and developing indigenous intervention studies in India.
Environmental Exposures, Characteristics, and Treatment Outcomes of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis at a Rural Appalachian Academic Medical Center: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Deepak Vishal , Buragamadagu Bhanusowmya , Landis Ty , Salyer Rachel , Balakrishnan Bathmapriya
Published: November 2023

Purpose:

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is a form of interstitial lung disease (ILD) caused by inhalational exposure to an antigen. Little is known about the exposures, outcomes, and management of HP in rural Appalachian patients.

Methods:

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted from January 1, 2017, to June 30, 2022, at a tertiary academic medical center. Sixty-two patients were initially screened, and seven patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The primary outcome was the exposure leading to HP. Secondary outcomes included the disease stage at diagnosis, smoking rate, treatment modalities, ILD exacerbation rate, and mortality.

Results:

Birds and mold are the more common exposures attributed to HP (both n=2, 28.57%). Novel exposures to continuous positive airway pressure devices, vapor and/or fumes, and fiberglass were noted (each n=1, 14.28%). Three patients (42.85%) had fibrotic HP at presentation. Most patients were ever-smokers (n=4, 57.14%). All patients (n=7, 100%) received corticosteroids with a mean duration of use of 2.50 ± 0.65 months, and a mean dose of 37.14 ± 12.54 mg. One (14%) patient was compliant with antigen elimination. ILD exacerbation and mortality rate was high (both n=2, 28.57%).

Conclusion:

The exposures identified in rural Appalachian HP patients were similar to other rural and urban populations in the United States. Risk factors associated with poor outcomes, such as smoking, fibrotic HP subtype, and non-avoidance of antigen were higher in this cohort. The rate of ILD exacerbation and mortality were similarly higher. Larger studies are needed to investigate longitudinal trends of exposure, characteristics, and management of HP to improve outcomes in rural populations.
Clinical Similarity of Biosimilars and Reference Drugs: A Comprehensive Review and New Hope for Public Health in a New Frontier
Authors: Adatiya Mansi D. , Devani Aanal A. , Dudhia Vishal N. , Chorawala Mehul R. , Patel Vishvas N. , Patel Manish P.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Patents and exclusive rights on reference biologics contribute to the
emergence of biosimilars. Regulatory bodies, such as the Food and Drug Administration
(FDA), World Health Organization (WHO), and EMA (European Medicines Agency) for assessing
clinical safety, effectiveness, and consequences between biosimilars and reference medications,
have established guidelines. Since generic small molecules from reference can be easily
swapped, biosimilars cannot be used interchangeably and may not always indicate interchangeability
due to highly restrictive properties. It can be replaced with a reference without the
healthcare provider's help under the interchangeability context.

Objective:

The purpose of our study is to analyze and compare evidence-based clinical safety,
therapeutic potential, and importance (outcomes) of several biosimilars with their references
along with clinical uses in chronic diseases.

Methods:

Through a comprehensive systemic literature review of more than 100 articles involving
medicinally important drugs whose bio-similarity works optimally, safety-efficacy parameters
have been analyzed. Analysis of biosimilar usage, approval, and safety-efficacy aspects are
majorly focused upon herein in this review.

Results:

From this systemic review, it can be stated that the majority of biosimilars are clinically
and statistically equivalent to their originators. As biosimilars have good safety-efficacy aspects
with lower prices, their utilization can be more encouraged, which was already done by
the FDA with the establishment of a public online database entitled "Purple Book," which includes
all information regarding biological drugs.

Conclusion:

To conclude, we suggest wide spread use of high-grade biosimilars in clinical
practice, may be via changing, exchanging, or switching, with appropriate clinical monitoring
and pharmacovigilance to improve patient accessibility to modern medicines, as it provides
similar efficacy and safety parameters across all the accumulated clinical trials and studies.
Non-State Actor's Strategy in Advocating the Movement to Reject Development Policy
Authors:   Universitas Negeri Padang, Fajri Hidayatul , Halawa Historis Soterman , Wahyuni Nila ,   Universitas Andalas
Published: November 2023

Geothermal is one of the potential renewable energy sources in Indonesia. This great potential makes the government try to develop geothermal energy development, one of which is in Mount Talang. However, the development received a rejection from the community, including non-state actors. This study looks at the strategy of the YLBHI Padang Legal Aid Institute in advocating the movement against the construction of geothermal energy-powered power plants. The studying conducted for 6 (six) months. This research design uses qualitative methods. The data sources we collect are interview data, observation results, official texts or policies, journal articles, websites on the internet, newspapers, social media, and youtube. The advocacy strategies carried out by LBH YLBHI Padang are; understanding strategic issues, building opinions and facts to the public, building coalition networks with civil society such as local communities, NGOs, students, national networks, and academics, designing goals and strategies as well as monitor and assess movements. The result of the advocacy carried out by LBH YLBHI Padang was the "temporary" suspension of constructing a geothermal energy power plant in Mount Talang. This research ends with research recommendations such as the need for inclusive stakeholder involvement in the formulation of development policies and 2) the need to grow civil society in the regions to become non-structural control for the government.
The Relative Influence of Leadership Factors on Employee Retention in Local Government
Authors:   Mzumbe University, Lameck Wilfred
Published: November 2023

The success of any organization depends on better retention of its employees. Studies on employee retention have reported on how best the organization can devise strategies for retaining its employees. Accordingly, individual and organizational factors have received significant attention over leadership style as a tool for inducing employee retention, particularly in remote areas. This study explores the existing leadership style and its influence on employee retention at Ikungi District Council Tanzania. Qualitative enquiry using a case study was carried out at Ikungi District. Documentary review and interviews were used to collect data. The data were analysed using content analysis and a thematic approach. The findings indicate that leadership style matter the most in employee retention as the decision to remain with the organization is highly determined by how well the subordinates interact with their supervisors.
SettingsThe Efficacy of Community Participation Towards Land Use Planning in South African Local Municipalities
Authors:   University of Limpopo, Masenya Malesela Jim , Kgobe France ,   University of Western Cape
Published: November 2023

The aim of the paper to examine the efficacy of community participation in land use planning and logically conceptualize it. Participation in the society is understood to be the advantage of a group of citizens to engage in matters that express their eventual growth. As a policy to increase community participation at the community level, the current democratic government has implemented comprehensive municipal planning. For the municipality, land use planning has many significances, especially in resolving human settlement debacles, fostering citizen engagement to decide needs and goals, and addressing the historical spatial inequality brought on by apartheid spatial planning. The execution of land use planning, however, has faced several obstacles, including weak cooperation in areas under the jurisdiction of conventional authorities, unlawful land possession and political intervention, among others. The study argues that if land use planning in South Africa can be well integrated and coordinated the spatial justice can be reached and imbalances of the past can be redressed efficaciously. Nonetheless, the study concludes that communities are also upset with their extent of engagement. Despite the many municipalities general success in achieving citizen engagement, there is already an incomplete backlog in civic interaction owing to unethical activities, budget constraints, lack of capacity and improper targeting.
Studi Komparatif Penanganan Pandemi di Taiwan: SARS, H1N1, dan COVID-19
Authors:   Universitas Pertamina, Putri Ardila , Anggraeni Silvia Dian ,   Universitas Pertamina, Isnarti Rika ,   Universitas Pertamina, Khairunnisa Nisrina Najla ,   Universitas Pertamina
Published: November 2023

Taiwan is considered as one of the countries that has successfully controlled the spread of COVID-19. Taiwan stated that their success in controlling the spread of COVID-19 was inseparable from their experience in dealing with SARS in 2003. This paper aims to compare Taiwan's response to SARS 2003, H1N1 in 2009, and COVID-19. By comparing Taiwan's response, this article detailing the transformation of Taiwan's policy in every pandemic and analyze the lesson learn for developing countries, including Indonesia, in dealing with a pandemic of communicable diseases in the future. In 2003 Taiwan had made some negligence as developing countries did when the outbreak of COVID-19. By looking at the transformation of Taiwan's policy, we can draw conclusions about the steps that developing countries can take in the future in controlling the spread of infectious diseases. This paper uses the tradition of empiricism with an indirect observation mechanism through the study of literature to describe the transformation of Taiwan's policies and analyze the lessons that can be taken by developing countries. The learning relates to communicable disease monitoring, border quarantine, communicable disease reporting, response planning, contact tracing, laboratory capacity building, public health education, open and transparent information. Keywords: Taiwan, SARS 2003, H1N1, COVID-19, Health Politics
Menuju Surabaya Green City Melalui Kerjasama Kota Kembar Surabaya-Kitakyushu
Authors:   Universitas Pembangunan Nasional ", Widiana Fany ,   Veteran",   Jawa Timur, Utomo Ario Bimo ,   Universitas Pembangunan Nasional "Veteran" Jawa Timur
Published: November 2023

The sister city collaboration between Surabaya and Kitakyushu is an example of the active cooperation of local governments in Indonesia. Conceptually, this kind of cooperation is also called paradiplomacy or diplomatic activity carried out by local governments with other regions in foreign countries. This article takes a case study of the sister cities of Surabaya and Kitakyushu to then look at the institutionalization aspect as a dimension that can be seen from paradiplomacy. Using the Surabaya point of view, the institutionalization points that the writer will review in this article are (1) the formation of a special ministry or department; (2) establishment of permanent subnational offices; (3) official visits of regional authorities to foreign territories and countries; (4) participation in various international events organized by foreign actors; (5) formation and participation in multilateral global & cross-border regional networks and working groups in specific fields; and (6) regional authorization participation in international events organized by foreign entities in official delegations of the central government. Keywords: Paradiplomacy, Surabaya, Kitakyushu, Sister City, Institutionalization
Screening of serum antibody to symptomatic and asymptomatic patients with Hymenolepis nana
Authors: A. Shlash Shaimaa, , Saleh Huda, A. , Almashhady Fatima, R.
Published: November 2023

Hymenolepis nana is a common parasitic disease that spreads mainly to children.
The present study aims to circulate anti-parasite antibody responses against H.nana
in the symptomatic and asymptomatic IN children with assured hymenolepiasis
examined in Al-Najaf province. Symptomatic patients were explicitly used as follows: the existence of H.nana eggs in the feces with more symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, losing weight, flatulency, appetite loss, and nausea. Antiparasite of the humoral immune response had been measured using indirect immunofluorescence (IFA) and ELISA. A significant disparity was noticed in the antiparasite antibody response when measuring the IFA of the asymptomatic and
symptomatic patients. Over 37% of asymptomatic patients had a titer of 1:500 or
lower, and more than 28% of symptomatic patients had a titer of 1:8000 or higher.
When measured by ELISA, the circulation of anti-parasite overall IgM and IgA is
significantly higher in symptomatic than asymptomatic patients, as regarding upper egg production showed in the symptomatic people.
Keywords: Hymenolepis nana, Cysticercoids, asymptomatic and symptomatic
patients, Antibody response.
Exploring the Usability and Acceptability of a Well-Being App for Adolescents Living With Type 1 Diabetes: Qualitative Study
Authors: Garner Katie , Thabrew Hiran , Lim David , Hofman Paul , Jefferies Craig , Serlachius Anna
Published: November 2023

Background

Adolescents living with either type 1 diabetes (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) have an increased risk of psychological disorders due to the demands of managing a chronic illness and the challenges of adolescence. Psychological disorders during adolescence increase the risk of suboptimal glycemic outcomes and may lead to serious diabetes-related complications. Research shows that digital health interventions may increase access to psychological support for adolescents and improve physical and mental health outcomes for youth with diabetes. To our knowledge, there are no evidence-based, publicly available mental health apps with a focus on improving the psychological well-being of adolescents with diabetes.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the acceptability and usability of our evidence-based well-being app for New Zealand adolescents, Whitu: 7 Ways in 7 Days (Whitu), to allow us to further tailor it for youth with diabetes. We interviewed adolescents with T1D and T2D, their parents, and health care professionals to explore their views on the Whitu app and suggestions for tailoring the app for adolescent with diabetes. We also explored the cultural acceptability of the Whitu app for Māori and Pacific adolescents.

Methods

A total of 34 participants, comprising 13 adolescents aged 12-16 years (11 with T1D and 2 with T2D), 10 parents, and 11 health care professionals, were recruited from a specialist diabetes outpatient clinic and Facebook diabetes groups. Each participant attended one 1-hour focus group on Zoom, in person, or via phone. Researchers gathered general feedback on what makes an effective and engaging app for adolescents with diabetes, as well as specific feedback about Whitu. Transcribed audio recordings of the focus groups were analyzed using directed content analysis.

Results

Adolescents with T1D, their parents, and health care professionals found Whitu to be acceptable and usable. Adolescents with T1D and their parents signaled a preference for more diabetes-specific content. Health care professionals expressed less awareness and trust of digital health interventions and, as such, recommended that they be used with external support. Due to challenges in recruitment and retention, we were unable to include the views of adolescents with T2D in this qualitative study.

Conclusions

There appears to be sufficient openness to the use of an app such as Whitu for supporting the well-being of adolescents with T1D, albeit with modifications to make its content more diabetes specific. Based on this qualitative study, we have recently developed a diabetes-specific version of Whitu (called LIFT: Thriving with Diabetes). We are also planning a qualitative study to explore the views of youth with T2D and their perspectives on the new LIFT app, where we are using alternative research approaches to recruit and engage adolescents with T2D and their families.
A Video Game Intervention to Prevent Opioid Misuse Among Older Adolescents: Development and Preimplementation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Aneni Kammarauche , Fernandes Claudia-Santi F , Hoerner Lily A , Szapary Claire , Pendergrass Boomer Tyra M , Fiellin Lynn E
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Opioid misuse and mental disorders are highly comorbid conditions. The ongoing substance misuse and mental health crises among adolescents in the United States underscores the importance of widely scalable substance misuse preventive interventions that also address mental health risks. Serious video games offer an engaging, widely scalable method for delivering and implementing preventive interventions. However, there are no video game interventions that focus on preventing opioid misuse among older adolescents, and there are limited existing video game interventions that address mental health.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to develop and conduct a formative evaluation of a video game intervention to prevent opioid misuse and promote mental health among adolescents aged 16-19 years (PlaySmart). We conducted formative work in preparation for a subsequent randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

We conducted development and formative evaluation of PlaySmart in 3 phases (development, playtesting, and preimplementation) through individual interviews and focus groups with multiple stakeholders (adolescents: n=103; school-based health care providers: n=51; and addiction treatment providers: n=6). PlaySmart content development was informed by the health belief model, the theory of planned behavior, and social cognitive theory. User-centered design principles informed the approach to development and play testing. The Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, and Sustainability framework informed preimplementation activities. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes from interviews and focus groups that informed PlaySmart game content and approaches to future implementation of PlaySmart.

RESULTS

We developed a novel video game PlaySmart for older adolescents that addresses the risk and protective factors for opioid misuse and mental health. Nine themes emerged from the focus groups that provided information regarding game content. Playtesting revealed areas of the game that required improvement, which were modified for the final game. Preimplementation focus groups identified potential barriers and facilitators for implementing PlaySmart in school settings.

CONCLUSIONS

PlaySmart offers a promising digital intervention to address the current opioid and mental health crises among adolescents in a scalable manner.
Creating an Intercultural User-Centric Design for a Digital Sexual Health Education App for Young Women in Resource-Poor Regions of Kenya: Qualitative Self-Extended Double Diamond Model for Requirements Engineering Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Soehnchen Clarissa , Rietz Annika , Weirauch Vera , Meister Sven , Henningsen Maike
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The stigmatization around sexual health due to culture, religious traditions, and norms leads to myths and a lack of available information and resources related to universal access to sexual and reproductive health services. Additional sexual health education not being part of the Kenya school curriculum leads to insufficient access to knowledge about safe contraception, menstruation, and female genital mutilation. A digital app could support and provide education and information for universal equal access, addressing United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3, 4, and 5.

OBJECTIVE

The study targeted the requirements for establishing a reusable framework to develop a successful accessible web-based sexual health education app and the behavioral intention to use it to obtain sexual health information by mainly young women in Kenya.

METHODS

The double diamond model, with a problem room including the discover and define phases, enriched with cultural aspects and modeled to a self-expanded intercultural research model was used in a user-centered design thinking approach to develop a framework for requirements engineering analysis. For problem identification, semistructured pilot phase interviews based on Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines were conducted, followed by expert interviews for qualitative content analysis. A sample size of 12 pilot phase interviews and 5 expert interviews was determined using data saturation. The responses were coded and analyzed according to the affinity mapping method.

RESULTS

The requirements engineering analysis showed potential enablers of and barriers to the use of a digital sexual health education app. Through this qualitative study, a conservative cultural background, classic text communication, and the influence of social affiliation within society were identified as barriers, which should be enhanced through visual and auditory channels as well as a fictional character in the app.

CONCLUSIONS

The developed intercultural research model provides an impetus to providing digital sexual health education, integrating culture-specific aspects in the design process, while focusing on cultural and religious stigmata. The reusable framework enables identifying and overcoming hurdles in providing information about taboo and intimate topics. The overall use of online education tools focusing on intimate topics is correlated with accessibility and understanding specific cultural needs while delivering content on a basic and comprehensive level. It helps the target user from a social conservative background and in resource-poor circumstances to benefit from a digital educational solution.
SONAR: Enabling Robust Automated Harmonization of Heterogeneous Data through Ensemble Machine Learning (Preprint)
Authors: Yang Doris , Zhou Doudou , Cai Steven , Gan Ziming , Pencina Michael , Avillach Paul , Cai Tianxi , Hong Chuan
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Cohort studies contain rich clinical data across large and diverse patient populations that are a common source of observational data for clinical research. Because large scale cohort studies are both time and resource intensive, one alternative is to harmonize data from existing cohorts through multi-cohort studies. Given differences in variable encoding, however, accurate variable harmonization is difficult.

OBJECTIVE

We propose SONAR, a method for harmonizing variables across cohort studies, in order to facilitate multi-cohort studies.

METHODS

SONAR ensembles semantic learning from variable descriptions and distribution learning from study participant data. Our method learns an embedding vector for each variable and uses pairwise cosine similarity to score the similarity between variables. This approach was built off three NIH cohorts, including the Cardiovascular Health Study, the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, and the Women’s Health Initiative. We also use gold-standard labels to further refine the embeddings in a supervised manner.

RESULTS

The method was evaluated using manually curated gold-standard labels from the three NIH cohorts. We evaluated both the intra-cohort and inter-cohort variable harmonization performance. The supervised SONAR method outperforms existing benchmark methods for almost all intra-cohort and inter-cohort comparisons using AUC and top k accuracy metrics. Notably, SONAR is able to significantly improve harmonization of concepts that are difficult for existing semantic methods to harmonize.

CONCLUSIONS

SONAR achieves accurate variable harmonization within and between cohort studies by harnessing the complementary strengths of semantic learning and variable distribution learning.
Classification Methods Performance On Logistic Package State Recognition
Authors: Auzan Muhammad , Rahadian Fudholi Dzikri , Josianlie P Paulus , Fuadin M Ridho
Published: November 2023

In the distribution sector, logistic package experience activities, such as transport, distribution, storage, packaging, and handling. Even though those processes have reasonable operational procedures, sometimes the package experience mishandling. The mishandling is hard to identify because many packages run simultaneously, and not all processes are monitored. An Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) is installed inside a package to collect three acceleration and rotation data. The data is then labeled manually into four classes: correct handling, vertical fall, and thrown and rotating fall. Then, using cross-validation, ten classifiers were used to generate a model to classify the logistic package status and evaluate the accuracy score. It is hard to differentiate between free-fall and thrown. The classification only uses the accelerometer data to minimize the running time. The correct handling classification gives a good result because the data pattern has few variations. However, the thrown, free-fall and rotating data give a lower result because the pattern resembles each other. The average accuracy of the ten classifications is 78.15, with a mean deviation of 4.31. The best classifier for this research is the Gaussian Process, with a mean accuracy of 94.4 % and a deviation of 3.5 %.
The Role of Job Satisfaction as a Mediator: Exploring the Impact of Communication Quality and Principal Conflict Management on Teacher Performance
Authors: Prasetyo Hadi , Malik Nazaruddin , Mohyi Achmad
Published: November 2023

The purpose of the study was to analyze and test the effect of communication quality and principal conflict management on the performance of elementary / MI teachers in Trenggalek Regency with job satisfaction as an intervening variable. Explanatory research is a type of research used in research with a quantitative approach and data collection methods using survey methods Types of research using explanatory research types, survey methods by giving questionnaires to 132 teachers as respondents. The SEM-PLS method is used in data analysis and testing with the help of the SmartPLS 3 application program. The results of the direct test found that the quality of principal communication, principal conflict management, and job satisfaction each had a positive and significant influence on teacher performance, the quality of principal communication and principal conflict management each had a positive and significant effect on teacher job satisfaction. The results of indirect influence testing with the results that teacher job satisfaction was able to mediate the influence between the quality of principal communication and the principal's conflict management on teacher performance positively and significantly.
Integrable Quantum Circuits from the Star-Triangle Relation
Authors: Miao Yuan , Vernier Eric
Published: November 2023

The star-triangle relation plays an important role in the realm of exactly solvable models, offering exact results for classical two-dimensional statistical mechanical models. In this article, we construct integrable quantum circuits using the star-triangle relation. Our construction relies on families of mutually commuting two-parameter transfer matrices for statistical mechanical models solved by the star-triangle relation, and differs from previously known constructions based on Yang-Baxter integrable vertex models. At special value of the spectral parameter, the transfer matrices are mapped into integrable quantum circuits, for which infinite families of local conserved charges can be derived. We demonstrate the construction by giving two examples of circuits acting on a chain of Q−state qudits: Q-state Potts circuits, whose integrability has been conjectured recently by Lotkov et al., and ZQ circuits, which are novel to our knowledge. In the first example, we present for Q=3 a connection to the Zamolodchikov-Fateev 19-vertex model.
Is There A Case for Bioplastics? Experience from Thailand
Authors:   Asian Development Bank, Kerdlap Piya , Baker James ,   Asian Development Bank
Published: November 2023

This brief outlines how the environmental benefits of bioplastics are tempered by waste disposal challenges and why Thailand and countries in Southeast Asia should consider policies and incentives to capitalize on rocketing bioplastics demand. Noting Thailand is the world’s second-largest bioplastics producer, the brief explains the costs, production processes, and uses of the materials. It looks closely at their greenhouse gas emissions and complex issues around end-of-life biodegradation. It shows why countries should invest in infrastructure such as industrial composting facilities and provide fresh financial incentives for manufacturers to help meet growing demand and drive the shift to a bio-based economy.
A flexible approach for demand-responsive public transport in rural areas
Authors: Martí Pasqual , Jordán Jaume , Julian Vicente
Published: November 2023

Rural mobility research has been left aside in favor of urban transportation. Rural areas? low demand, the distance among settlements, and an older population on average make conventional public transportation inefficient and costly. This paper assesses the contribution that on-demand mobility has the potential to make to rural areas. First, demand-responsive transportation is described, and the related literature is reviewed to gather existing system configurations. Next, we describe and implement a proposal and test it on a simulation basis. The results show a clear potential of the demand-responsive mobility paradigm to serve rural demand at an acceptable quality of service. Finally, the results are discussed, and the issues of adoption rate and input data scarcity are addressed.
How to fairly and efficiently assign tasks in individually rational agents’ coalitions? Models and fairness measures
Authors: Lujak Marin , Salvatore Alessio , Fernández Alberto , Giordani Stefano , Cousy Kendal
Published: November 2023

An individually rational agent will participate in a multi-agent coalition if the participation, given available information and knowledge, brings a payoff that is at least as high as the one achieved by not participating. Since agents? performance and skills may vary from task to task, the decisions about individual agent-task assignment will determine the overall performance of the coalition. Maximising the efficiency of the one-on-one assignment of tasks to agents corresponds to the conventional linear sum assignment problem, which considers efficiency as the sum of the costs or benefits of individual agent-task assignments obtained by the coalition as a whole. This approach may be unfair since it does not explicitly consider fairness and, thus, is unsuitable for individually rational agents? coalitions. In this paper, we propose two new assignment models that balance efficiency and fairness in task assignment and study the utilitarian, egalitarian, and Nash social welfare for task assignment in individually rational agents? coalitions. Since fairness is a relatively abstract term that can be difficult to quantify, we propose three new fairness measures based on equity and equality and use them to compare the newly proposed models. Through functional examples, we show that a reasonable trade-off between efficiency and fairness in task assignment is possible through the use of the proposed models.
A Study on the Process and Cause of the Policy of Consolidation and Fostering of Rural Small Schools
Authors:   The Korean Society for the Study of Local Education Management, Yu Seongwan , Kim Doki
Published: November 2023

In this study, the process of changing the policy of 'integration' of rural small schools to 'Fostering' policy was described, and the cause of policy change was analyzed. The government-level consolidation and fostering policy change process was restructured and described as a consolidation policy promotion period from 1982 to 2009, a consolidation and fostering policy mixing period from 2010 to 2015, and a fostering policy promotion period from 2016 to the present. It was confirmed that the policy of fostering small schools at the level of the metropolitan and provincial offices of education was promoted as a self-rescue measure to prevent the devastation and extinction of many small schools. As a result of analyzing policy changes, it was found that "internal factors" due to the limitations of the consolidation policy, "policy ideas" on efficiency and equity, "interest relations" of policy participants composed of government, teachers, civic groups, and progressive superintendents. As a conclusion on the policy of rural small schools, it was suggested that the policy should first consider guaranteeing student learning rights and high-quality educational experiences, and specific examples of unit school-oriented movements should be made in order to expand the policy.
A Review of Qualitative Research in Educational Leadership
Authors:   The Korean Society for the Study of Local Education Management, Joo Hyun-jun
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to analyze methodological challenges and offer recommendations for the qualitative research of educational leadership. In order to achieve the goals, the study identified 16 research of educational leadership published in Korean Journal of Educational Administration between 2000 and 2021. The author applied analytical standards for conducting systemic review. Data were analyzed and evaluated according to an analytical standard. From the findings of this study are as follows: Theres was a strong tendency to preponder case study overwhelmingly. The study identified the disparities among the research in educational leadership. Also, the problem of repeating the same error in the research method was identified. The author discusses recommendations for overcoming the challenges of the qualitative research of educational leadership.
An Research on the State of Inter-regional Brain Drain of Youth for College Entrance, Employment, and Graduate School Enrollment: focused on the Southeast Area of the Republic of Korea
Authors:   The Korean Society for the Study of Local Education Management, Kim Young Sik , Lee Jae Jun
Published: November 2023

This research aimed to explanatorily investigate the path and aspect of the inter-regional brain drain of Korean youth for college enrollment and employment utilizing ‘2018 Graduates Occupational Mobility Survey(GOMS) dataset focusing on the Southeast area of Korea. To achieve the purpose of this study, we analyzed the first brain drain which includes the outflow of human resources due to the college entrance, and then the second brain drain involving the regional movement for employment or graduate school entrance. The results of this study showed that there were obviously net outflows of college students from southeast area to metropolitan area, and within the southeast area youths of Ulsan and Kyungnam were more likely to move to Busan for college entrance. Furthermore, there were net outflows of college graduates for employment from southeast area to metropolitan area as well. Meanwhile, the college graduates of Busan were more likely to be employed by the job located in Ulsan and Kyungnam. Based on the above results, this study provided that it is needed to enhance the education, research and student support competency of regional colleges, and establish more assertive ‘affirmative action’ policy to retain regional youth in the original areas.
An Analysis on the Perceptions of Educational Subjects on the Lack of freshmen in Incheon Specialized High Schools
Authors:   The Korean Society for the Study of Local Education Management, Moon Young Jin , Joo Hyeon Sung , Kim Do Ki
Published: November 2023

This study aims to analyze the perceptions of educational subjects regarding the issue of a decline in the number of freshmen in Incheon Specialized High Schools, which has recently emerged as a major concern. Six specialized high schools in Incheon were selected for the research, and with the cooperation of the schools, teachers, students, and parents from the schools were selected as research participants and interviewed. The findings of this study are as follows. First, the educational subjects were generally aware of the shortage of new students in specialized high schools. Second, they identified a reluctance to enroll in specialized high schools and the lack of guidance in middle school as the reasons for the lack of freshmen. Third, the educational subjects employed strategies such as reorganizing the departments and strengthening promoting activities to address the problem. Considering the growing emphasis on strengthening local education autonomy, this study provides a significant foundation for exploring policy measures at the education office level to resolve the shortage of new students in specialized high schools in the future.