bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
REDD1 expression in podocytes facilitates renal inflammation and pyroptosis in streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Dennis Michael , Sunilkumar Siddharth , Subrahmanian Sandeep , Yerlikaya Esma , Toro Allyson , Harhaj Edward , Kimball Scot
Published: October 2024

Sterile inflammation resulting in an altered immune response is a key determinant of renal injury in diabetic nephropathy (DN). In this investigation, we evaluated the hypothesis that hyperglycemic conditions augment the pro-inflammatory immune response in the kidney by promoting podocyte-specific expression of the stress response protein regulated in development and DNA damage response 1 (REDD1). In support of the hypothesis, streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes increased REDD1 protein abundance in the kidney concomitant with renal immune cell infiltration. In diabetic mice, administration of the SGLT2 inhibitor dapagliflozin reduced blood glucose concentrations, renal REDD1 protein abundance, and immune cell infiltration. In contrast with diabetic REDD1+/+ mice, diabetic REDD1-/- mice did not exhibit albuminuria, increased pro-inflammatory factors, or renal macrophage infiltration. In cultured human podocytes, exposure to hyperglycemic conditions promoted REDD1-dependent activation of NF-κB signaling. Suppression of REDD1 in podocytes reduced cytokine and chemokine expression and attenuated macrophage chemotaxis in response to hyperglycemic conditions. Notably, podocyte-specific REDD1 deletion prevented the pro-inflammatory immune cell infiltration in the kidneys of diabetic mice. Furthermore, exposure of podocytes to hyperglycemic conditions promoted REDD1-dependent pyroptotic cell death, evidenced by an NLRP3-mediated increase in caspase-1 activity and LDH release. REDD1 expression in podocytes was also required for an increase in pyroptosis markers in the glomeruli of diabetic mice. The data support that podocyte-specific REDD1 is necessary for chronic NF-κB activation in the context of diabetes and raises the prospect that therapies targeting podocyte-specific REDD1 may be helpful in DN.
Does bikeway design matter?A bicycle-motor vehicle crash prediction model
Authors: Medeiros Rafael Milani
Published: October 2024

In recent years, urban bicycle networks have expanded globally, accompanied by a rise in bicycle commuting. Despite this growth, cyclists remain disproportionately affected by traffic crashes involving motor vehicles, resulting in significant fatalities and injuries. Bikeway designs vary widely, influenced by factors such as geometry, positioning relative to traffic, and shared use with other modes. While infrastructure design is known to impact cycling safety, few studies have comprehensively analyzed entire city networks or compared bikeway typologies. This study uses multivariate linear regression to test whether bikeway design contributes to bicycle-motor vehicle crashes. Analyzing geolocated 38,917 bicycling crashes in Berlin, along the 5,350 km of the city's road network, this study found that bikeway-type extension, motor and bicycle trip volumes per observation unit are statistically significant predictors at the 99% confidence level of crash rates, with independent variable p-value well below 0.01. Resulting models simulate that replacing 50 km of mixed-traffic roads with dedicated bike lanes could prevent 2,631 crashes annually. Furthermore, converting 50 km of mixed-traffic roads to shared-use lanes between bicycles and buses could reduce crashes by 82%.
Risk factors and economic losses associated with Cystic echinococcosis among livestock in selected pastoral and agro-pastoral areas of Uganda
Authors: Omadang Leonard , Emmanuel Othieno , Ikwap Kokas , Joseph Erume , Ejobi Francis , Ocaido Michael
Published: October 2024

Background
Cystic echinococcosis is a parasitic cyclo-zoonotic disease caused by the taeniid Echinococcus and causes significant economic losses in livestock production, yet its impact is often overlooked and under estimated.
Methods
This study investigated the risk factors and economic impact of cystic echinococcosis in livestock, in Uganda's pastoral and agro-pastoral communities. In the study, 14,937 livestock were examined at selected slaughterhouses in Moroto, Kumi, Luwero and Nakasongola districts from March 2019 to February 2020. The visceral organs were examined for hydatid cysts during slaughter and the prevalence correlated with the risk factors got from livestock traders and livestock owners through questionnaire survey. Production losses and economic losses due to organ condemnations were also estimated.
Results
This is the first study to provide insights into the financial impacts and risk factors towards Cystic echinococcosis in livestock in Uganda. The key risk factors for the development and persistence of CE were: livestock species origin and tethering in goats, communal grazing for cattle and keeping large herds of sheep (p < 0.0001). Considering the current result, the total annual economic losses from organ condemnation and carcass weight loss due to CE on livestock inspected in abattoirs in the study districts was 21,352.7 USD with 11.7% due to organ condemnation and 88.3% due to production losses from weight loss. More significant mean economic cost per livestock species examined occurred in Moroto district among Zebu cattle (US 8.4), goats (US 1.4) and sheep (US 1.4) than other districts.
Conclusion
Results show that CE is a disease of significant economic importance and CE prevalence was linked to factors like origin and tethering in goats, grazing practices in cattle, and herd size in sheep. The study highlights the need for awareness and control measures to mitigate CE's economic impact on livestock productivity, household food security, and income.
Exploring the Antibacterial Activity of Ipomoea staphylina Extracts Against H. pylori: A Pharmacognostic Investigation of Whole Plant and Matured Stem with Emphasis on Quercetin Isolation
Authors: Lakshmanan  Narayanan  , Suseem S R
Published: October 2024

Ipomoea staphylina Rome & Schult, entrenched in ethnomedicinal practices, is recognised for its efficacy in treating stomach disorders. Traditionally used in Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu for stomach ulcers, its matured stem bark latex is therapeutically relevant, especially for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections. This prompts scientific exploration into its antibacterial properties. The research validates the antibacterial efficacy of I. staphylina extracts against H. pylori, scrutinising the whole plant and matured stem through a comparative pharmacognostic analysis. Utilising herbal standardisation techniques, we confirm the heightened purity of the powder. Antimicrobial assessments show exceptional efficacy of DME (dried Ethanolic extract of I. staphylina) and HLS (hydro alcoholic extract of I. staphylina) extracts. Quercetin isolation by using advanced instrumentation (Nuclear magnetic resonance [NMR], High resolution mass spectrometry [HR-MS], High-performance thin-layer chromatography [HPTLC], Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy [FTIR]) ensures precise compound identification. This methodology guarantees an exhaustive analysis, confirming purity and identifying bioactive components. Standardisation underscores theelevated purity of I. staphylina, with phytochemical screening revealing a predominant presence of phenolics and flavonoids. Antibacterial investigations highlight significant activity, particularly with DME and HLS extracts. These findings substantiate I. staphylina’s medicinal significance, especially its matured stem latex, as a promising treatment for H. pylori-induced stomach ulcers, affirming traditional use by Dharmapuri villagers.
Prioritising Conservation Area in Species Management Strategy for The Edible Bornean Giant River Frog Limnonectes leporinus Anderson 1923
Authors: Ramlah Zainudin  , Elvy Quatrin Deka  , Julius Georgy
Published: October 2024

Limnonectes leporinus, the endemic giant river frog, is a riparian (stream dwelling) species that lives along streams with moderate to steep gradients. The most serious threats to the species are deforestation caused by severe clear cutting, which fragments its distribution, and overhunting for local consumption. Excessive landscape modification alters habitat, making it critical for an organism to maintain heterozygozity for the population to be fit to adapt to a changing environment. The goal of this research was to project suitable habitats and predict the potential for habitat connectivity to allow gene flow across the Sarawak landscape. The presence data file and environmental layers were converted into ASCII format using ArcGIS and then used in MaxEnt modelling to generate the map of suitable habitats. To perform the connectivity model, the potential habitat model and genetic attributes of haplotype data were computerised in Circuitscape software. The findings revealed that suitable habitats corresponded to species distribution in lowland areas with sustainable stream networks as breeding sites, while higher elevations were identified as unsuitable habitats. Gene flow data, on the other hand, revealed that connectivity circuits are mostly found in unprotected forest, which includes development areas and private lands. As a result, prioritising conservation areas should include local governments and landowners in proper landscape management as well as species management strategies. This indirectly sustains and protects Borneo’s forests, flora and fauna.
Phytochemical Analysis, Antioxidant Activity and Bioassay-Guided Isolation of Acetylcholinesterase and Butyrylcholinesterase Inhibitors from Horsfieldia polyspherula Bark (Myristicaceae)
Authors: Mohammed Idris  , Mohamad Nurul Azmi  , Thaigarajan Parmusivam  , Unang Supratman  , Marc Litaudon  , Khalijah Awang
Published: October 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition brought on by aging and characterised by progressive decline in cognitive function and abnormalities in the central cholnergic system. ?-amyloid deposits, neurofibril tangle aggregation, oxidative stress or reduced level of acetylcholine are a few causes that have been linked to AD. In this study, the bioassay-guided isolation from ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extract of Horsfieldia polyspherula bark led to the isolation of nine compounds namely, 16-phenylhexadecanoic acid (1), undecylbenzene (2), 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (3), dodecanoic acid (4), tetradecanoic acid (5), pentadecanoic acid (6), 1-tridecene (7), stigmasterol (8) and trimyristin (9). Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, steroids, lignin, alkaloids, phytosterol and triterpenoids. The DPPH scavenging activity of EtOAc extract was related to the phenolic content (116.67 ± 16.98 GAE mg/g) and other non-phenolics such as lower fatty acids. Meanwhile, the DPPH scavenging activity was found to be concentration-dependent and correlated with both flavonoid and phenolic content. Furthermore, EtOAc and methanol (MeOH) extracts of H. polyspherula bark showed significant inhibitory activity at 100 ?g/mL on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), with EtOAc extract showing 77.2% and 64.1% inhibition and MeOH extract showing 37.5% and 39.2% inhibition, respectively. Additionally, the IC50 for BuChE and AChE of the EtOAc extract were found to be effective, with 15.41 ± 0.78 ?g/mL and 7.67 ± 0.13 ?g/mL, respectively. Compound 1 exhibited dual inhibition of 40.99 ± 1.99 ?M (BuChE) and 46.83 ± 2.44 ?M (AChE), while compounds 2 and 3 showed IC50 values above 200 ?M. This study revealed that this plant shows a significant potential as anti-cholinesterase focusing on acetylcholinesterase (AchE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE). This is the first report on Horsfieldia polyspherula and their biological activity.
Effect of Biologically Active Substances on Thermal and Oxidative Stress in Caenorhabditis elegans Models
Authors: Frolova Anna , Milentyeva Irina , Fedorova Anastasiya , Miller Ekaterina , Luzyanin Sergey
Published: October 2024

Modern medicine strives to prevent age-related diseases. Oxidative stress is associated with development and progression of various diseases. Reactive oxygen species are part of vital physiological processes. High levels of reactive oxygen lead to stress and pathology whereas low ones are associated with healthy physiology. Plant-derived adaptogens demonstrate good results in stress tolerance and homeostasis. Plant materials are a pharmacologically optimal source of chemical compounds to treat various diseases, including those caused by oxidative stress.
The research featured biologically active substances isolated from extracts of callus, suspension, and root cultures of medicinal plants. Baicalin and trans-cinnamic acid were obtained from Scutellaria baicalensis while ursolic acid came from Thymus vulgaris. The biologically active substances were tested for neuroprotective properties, as well as for the impact on the expression of SOD-3 and HSP-16.2. Caenorhabditis elegans served as a model to study the accumulation of carbonylated proteins and lipofuscin.
The neuroprotective activity of all tested substances decreased as their concentration fell from 200 to 10 μmol/L. C. elegans proved more resistant to thermal stress if pretreated with the biologically active substances. In response to thermal stress, nematodes expressed SOD-3 more actively than HSP-16.2. At 100 μmol/L, the biologically active substances could reduce the level of carbonylated proteins. Ursolic acid was especially effective against protein carbonylation and lipofuscin accumulation in all concentrations.
Baicalin, trans-cinnamic acid, and ursolic acid made it possible to reduce oxidative and thermal stress, thus demonstrating good prospects for further studies as part of adaptogenic prepa rations.
The impact of future climate and land use changes on runoff in the Min-Tuo River Basin
Authors: Jiang Nan , Ni Fuquan , Deng Yu , Wu Mingyan , Yue Ziying , Zhu Mengyu , Ren Huazhun , Wang Yuxuan
Published: October 2024

In the face of escalating global warming and intensified human activities, it is crucial to quantitatively assess the combined impacts of future climate change (CC) and land use change (LUCC) on runoff. This study employed simulation results of future CC and LUCC in the Min-Tuo River Basin, utilizing the CMIP6 and CA-Markov models in conjunction with the SWAT model to project runoff changes under various scenarios. The findings indicate an anticipated increase in both precipitation and average temperature in the future. Projected LUCC involves a reduction in arable land and grassland, alongside expansion of other land cover types. Changes in basin runoff are predominantly influenced by precipitation, with a higher likelihood of extreme events as CO2 emissions increase. Across four emission scenarios, the impact of future CC on basin runoff varies from −5.21% to +6.09%, while future LUCC's contribution ranges from +0.05% to +0.07%. When both factors are considered, the overall trend indicates a decrease in future runoff changes, ranging from −0.27% to +0.17%. These findings underscore the greater influence of CC on runoff compared to LUCC, thereby providing a scientific foundation for ecological conservation and water resources management in the basin.
Assessment of Energy Efficiency and Conservation Aspects Based on Building Information Modeling at Park Residence Building
Authors:   Civil Engineering Department, Mercubuana University, 11650, Indonesia, Faridah Yunita Hasna , Girsang Hamonangan ,   Civil Engineering Department, Mercubuana University, 11650, Indonesia
Published: October 2024

To save energy, according to two aspects of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), namely Sustainable Urban Development (SDG 11) and Climate Change (SDG 13), concrete efforts that can be made are increasing energy efficiency and conservation, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and strengthening resource sustainability. One of the initial efforts that can be made to increase energy efficiency and conservation is by applying Building Information Modeling (BIM) for energy simulation in building structures. One of the BIM-supporting software that can be used in energy simulations is Autodesk Revit, which functions for architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) modeling, and Autodesk Green Building Studio, which is a cloud-based media for conducting simple simulations of building performance so that various aspects of its energy can be analyzed for assessment. The Green Building aspect assessment of GBCI used is the GREENSHIP Existing Building Ver1.1 parameter, taken from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation (EEC) aspect, which is a quantitative assessment and can be modeled. The results of the EEC aspect assessment using a quantitative assessment tool obtained a value of 5 points from a total maximum value of 28 points. This value indicates that the 1 Park Residence Building is a building that has not implemented Green Building and requires actions that support the sustainability aspect of the building.
Effectiveness of Integrating Botulinum Toxin Type A with Rehabilitative Strategies for Managing Spastic Diplegia in Children: Scope Review
Authors: Donati Danilo , Farì Giacomo , Giorgi Federica , Amoruso Vincenza , Boetto Valentina , Marvulli Riccardo , Dell'Anna Laura , Bernetti Andrea , Tedeschi Roberto
Published: October 2024

This review examines the effectiveness of integrating botulinum toxin type A (BONT-A) with various rehabilitative strategies in treating spastic diplegia in children. The studies analyzed consistently demonstrate significant reductions in spasticity and improvements in gait when BONT-A is combined with interventions such as intensive physical therapy, serial casting, electrical stimulation, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and robotic-assisted gait training. The findings underscore the importance of personalized rehabilitation plans tailored to each child's needs. Early intervention is particularly effective in preventing spasticity and related complications, leading to better long-term outcomes. Despite the robust results, limitations such as heterogeneity in rehabilitative approaches, small sample sizes, and varying follow-up durations necessitate further research. Future studies should focus on larger, multicenter randomized controlled trials with standardized outcome measures and more extended follow-up periods to validate these findings and assess the long-term sustainability of treatment benefits. The review highlights the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care, which is crucial for optimizing therapeutic outcomes. The consistent improvements in both spasticity reduction and gait functionality emphasize the critical role of integrated treatment approaches in enhancing the quality of life for pediatric patients with cerebral palsy. The evidence supports the implementation of comprehensive, personalized rehabilitation strategies in clinical practice, promoting early and proactive management to achieve the best possible outcomes for children with spastic diplegia. This review provides a foundation for developing best practices and guiding future research in pediatric neurorehabilitation.
Association of Family-Centered Care With Psychological Distress Among Caregivers of Children With Cancer at a Tertiary-Level Hospital in Ethiopia: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Deribe Leul , Girma Eshetu , Lindström Nataliya , Gidey Abdulkadir , Teferra Solomon , Addissie Adamu
Published: October 2024

Background

Psychological distress (PD) is a common mental health problem faced by caregivers of children with cancer. The involvement of families in childcare was found to be associated with lower levels of distress.

Objective

The study aims to determine the associations between family-centered care (FCC) and PD among caregivers of children with cancer receiving treatment at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH), Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based, cross-sectional study was conducted from June to December 2022. Caregivers of children with cancer aged 0-14 years receiving cancer treatment at the pediatric oncology unit completed a face-to-face, interviewer-administered, structured questionnaire during a routine inpatient or outpatient visit. The questionnaire included questions on the characteristics of the child and caregiver, PD (measured by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale [K10]), FCC (measured by the Measure of Processes of Care [MPOC-20]), and social support (measured by the Oslo-3 Social Support Scale [OSS-3]). Data were collected using the Kobo toolbox and exported to SPSS (version 26; IBM Corp) for cleaning and analysis. A multivariable logistic regression model was used. An odds ratio with a 95% CI was calculated, and a P value less than .05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 384 caregivers of children with cancer participated in the study. The total PD score ranged from 10 to 50, with a mean score of 17.30 (SD 8.96; 95% CI 16.84-18.60). The proportion of caregivers found to have mild, moderate, and severe levels of PD was 43 (11.2%), 35 (9.1%), and 51 (13.3%), respectively. The overall prevalence of mild to severe PD symptoms was 33.6% (95% CI 28.9%-38.3%). A statistically significant negative association was found between FCC and PD (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.68, 95% CI 0.53-0.86). In addition, having no formal education (AOR 2.87, 95% CI 1.28-6.45), having a history of relapse (AOR 3.24, 95% CI 1.17-9.02), beginning cancer treatment at TASH (AOR 2.82, 95% CI 1.4-4.85), beginning treatment within the last 3 months (AOR 3.99, 95% CI 1.73-9.23), and beginning treatment within the last 4 to 18 months (AOR 2.68, 95% CI 1.25-5.76) were significantly associated with higher level of PD.

Conclusions

A total of 1 in 3 caregivers have reported PD. FCC was found to be protective of PD. The finding of this study suggests the need for FCC intervention to improve the mental health condition of caregivers. In addition, the intervention needs to consider the educational status of the caregivers, the time since the cancer diagnosis, and the history of relapse.
Effectiveness of Risk-Adapted Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Screening in China: Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Youqing , Zhu Juan , Li Huizhang , Wang Le , Zhu Chen , Li Xue , Wang Shi , Du Lingbin
Published: October 2024

Background

Previous studies have proved the effectiveness of endoscopic screening in rural areas; however, long-term, high-quality evidence regarding the effectiveness of risk-adapted upper gastrointestinal cancer (UGC) sequential screening strategies in resource-rich regions is currently lacking.

Objective

The objectives were to validate the effectiveness of risk-adapted sequential screening strategies in UGC prevention and control and assess the potential of sequential screening to lower mortality rates.

Methods

Based on the Cancer Screening Program in Urban China, a prospective, large-scale cohort study based on population was conducted to recruit individuals from 4 cities in China from 2013‐2019. Those identified as having a high risk of UGC according to a validated risk-score model were advised to undergo endoscopy tests. Follow-up outcomes were tracked until June 2021. Incidence of UGC, UGC-related mortality, and all-cause mortality were evaluated between the screened and nonscreened cohorts.

Results

The study included 153,079 participants at baseline. In total, 113,916 (74.42%) of the participants were designated as low risk of UGC. The remaining 39,163 (25.68%) participants were deemed to be at high risk of UGC and were offered gastroscopy tests. Among the high-risk participants, 9627 (compliance rate 24.6%) adhered to the gastroscopy tests. Over a median follow-up of 6.05 (IQR 3.06‐7.06) years, 622 UGC cases, 180 UGC deaths, and 1958 all-cause death cases were traced. The screened cohort exhibited the highest cumulative incidence of UGC (119.2 per 100,000 person-years), followed by the nonscreened and low-risk cohorts. Obvious reductions in both all-cause mortality and UGC mortality were observed between those who undertook screening (153.7 and 4.7 per 100,000 person-years, respectively) and the nonscreened group (245.3 and 27 per 100,000 person-years, respectively). The screening population showed a significant 36% and 82% reduction in both all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 0.64, 95% CI 0.49‐0.83, P<.001) and UGC mortality (HR 0.18, 95% CI 0.04‐0.74, P=.02), respectively, compared to the nonscreened group. Reductions of 35% in all-cause mortality (HR 0.65, 95% CI 0.49‐0.86, P=.003) and 81% in UGC mortality (HR 0.19, 95% CI 0.05‐0.80, P=.02) were observed in participants aged older than 55 years in the screened group compared to the nonscreened group. The reductions in all-cause mortality and UGC mortality were statistically significant in males (all-cause mortality: HR 0.64, 95% CI 0.47‐0.88, P=.005; UGC mortality: HR 0.10, 95% CI 0.01‐0.72, P=.02), but significant reductions were not observed in females (all P values were >.05).

Conclusions

Our study suggests the significance of one-off risk-adapted UGC screening in reducing both all-cause mortality and UGC mortality, particularly among high-risk individuals, indicating its effectiveness in UGC prevention and management.
Survival After Radical Cystectomy for Bladder Cancer: Development of a Fair Machine Learning Model
Authors: Carbunaru Samuel , Neshatvar Yassamin , Do Hyungrok , Murray Katie , Ranganath Rajesh , Nayan Madhur
Published: October 2024

Background

Prediction models based on machine learning (ML) methods are being increasingly developed and adopted in health care. However, these models may be prone to bias and considered unfair if they demonstrate variable performance in population subgroups. An unfair model is of particular concern in bladder cancer, where disparities have been identified in sex and racial subgroups.

Objective

This study aims (1) to develop a ML model to predict survival after radical cystectomy for bladder cancer and evaluate for potential model bias in sex and racial subgroups; and (2) to compare algorithm unfairness mitigation techniques to improve model fairness.

Methods

We trained and compared various ML classification algorithms to predict 5-year survival after radical cystectomy using the National Cancer Database. The primary model performance metric was the F1-score. The primary metric for model fairness was the equalized odds ratio (eOR). We compared 3 algorithm unfairness mitigation techniques to improve eOR.

Results

We identified 16,481 patients; 23.1% (n=3800) were female, and 91.5% (n=15,080) were “White,” 5% (n=832) were “Black,” 2.3% (n=373) were “Hispanic,” and 1.2% (n=196) were “Asian.” The 5-year mortality rate was 75% (n=12,290). The best naive model was extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), which had an F1-score of 0.860 and eOR of 0.619. All unfairness mitigation techniques increased the eOR, with correlation remover showing the highest increase and resulting in a final eOR of 0.750. This mitigated model had F1-scores of 0.86, 0.904, and 0.824 in the full, Black male, and Asian female test sets, respectively.

Conclusions

The ML model predicting survival after radical cystectomy exhibited bias across sex and racial subgroups. By using algorithm unfairness mitigation techniques, we improved algorithmic fairness as measured by the eOR. Our study highlights the role of not only evaluating for model bias but also actively mitigating such disparities to ensure equitable health care delivery. We also deployed the first web-based fair ML model for predicting survival after radical cystectomy.
Menstrual Cycle Management and Period Tracker App Use in Millennial and Generation Z Individuals: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hong Minji , Rajaguru Vasuki , Kim KyungYi , Jang Suk-Yong , Lee Sang Gyu
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Menstruation is a physical symptom that occurs in women of reproductive age. It has a significant impact on the daily life and health of women when their academic and social activities are most active. Since many women experience difficulties in daily life because of premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea, it is important to identify, prepare for, and manage the menstrual cycle in advance.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between menstruation-related experiences and the use of mobile-based period tracker apps by millennial and generation Z (gen Z) individuals. The objectives of this study are to investigate (1) menstrual cycle management, (2) factors affecting app usage (3) factors affecting cycle management, and (4) motivators and barriers to using period tracker apps, in millennial and gen Z women.

METHODS

A mixed methods design was used for this study. The participants were young women aged 20-39 years and recruited via the Ovey application. Data were collected through surveys and focus group interviews. The survey was conducted among 700 women, and 8 of them participated in the focus group interviews.

RESULTS

In total, 431 (62.3%) participants used period tracker apps primarily to predict their next menstrual cycle. Factors affecting app usage included childbirth experience (odds ratio [OR] 0.475, P<.05), number of dysmenorrhea symptoms (OR 1.136, P<.05), and cycle management level (OR 2.279, P<.001). Additionally, education level (OR 1.122, P<.05 [university level compared high school level]) and the number of dysmenorrhea symptoms (OR 1.024, P<.05) showed a positive association with the cycle management level. However, childbirth experience (OR 0.902, P<.05) and period irregularity (OR 0.929, P<.001) were negatively associated with the cycle management level.

CONCLUSIONS

Period tracker apps are becoming the new normal among millennials and gen Z individuals for managing their menstrual cycles. The use of a period tracker app empowers women by helping them gain a better understanding of their bodies, ultimately enhancing their social, academic, and health-related lives. Improving the accuracy and literacy of the app is an ongoing task for period-tracking apps, and it is important to provide added value tailored to users’ needs. Therefore, the findings of this study should be considered when designing or upgrading period tracker apps to facilitate the adoption of digital technology among young women, thereby promoting their overall well-being and reproductive health.

CLINICALTRIAL
Quality Assessment of Digital Health Apps: Umbrella Review (Preprint)
Authors: Zych Maciej Marek , Bond Raymond , Mulvenna Maurice , Martinez Carracedo Jorge , Bai Lu , Leigh Simon
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

With an increasing number of digital health apps available in app stores, it is important to assess these technologies reliably regarding their quality. This is done to mitigate the risks associated with their use. There are many different guidelines, methods, and metrics available to assess digital health apps with regard to their quality.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to give a holistic summary of the current methods and “condition agnostic” frameworks that are broadly applicable for the quality assessment of all digital health apps.

METHODS

A systematic search of literature was conducted on 4 databases: Scopus, PubMed, ACM Digital Library, and IEEE Xplore. We followed the PICOS (Population, Patient, or Problem; Intervention; Comparison; Outcomes; and Study Design) and PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodologies when conducting this umbrella review. The search was conducted on January 26, 2024, for review articles published between 2018 and 2023. We identified 4781 candidate papers for inclusion; after title and abstract screening, 39 remained. After full-text analysis, we included 15 review articles in the full review.

RESULTS

Of the 15 review articles, scoping reviews were the most common (n=6, 40%), followed by systematic reviews (n=4, 27%), narrative reviews (n=4, 27%), and a rapid review (n=1, 7%). A total of 4 (27%) review articles proposed assessment criteria for digital health apps. “Data privacy and/or security” was the most mentioned criterion (n=13, 87%) and “Cost” was the least mentioned criterion (n=1, 7%) for the assessment of digital health apps. The Mobile App Rating Scale was the most frequently used framework for quality assessment of digital health apps.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a lack of unity or consolidation across identified frameworks, as most do not meet all the identified criteria from the reviewed articles. Safety concerns associated with the use of digital health apps may be mitigated with the use of quality frameworks.
Mental health related outcomes across repeated testing of a co-designed preventative mental health smartphone app for University students (Preprint)
Authors: McCabe Melinda , Byrne Michelle , Gullifer Judith , Smart Isabelle , Chang Chunlei , Singh Sanket , Khara Gagan , Cornish Kim
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Health and mental health digital tools have emerged as a promising and necessary future of healthcare in a post-COVID 19 pandemic era. In the preventative mental health space many smartphone apps and digital tools available have either limited empirical or research support, or are limited in their ability to design to a commercial standard using iterative development methods.

OBJECTIVE

The current study explored the mental health and help seeking related outcomes of the iterative testing of the Monash Thrive app. It was hypothesised that there would be an improvement in all outcomes across both trials (1), and that these improvements would be observed to a greater degree in trial 2 compared to trial 1 (2).

METHODS

The Monash Thrive app was tested across two iterative trials in 2022, the minimum viable product (MVP) of the app was tested across 4 weeks of use, followed by the beta version of the app (redeveloped based on MVP testing feedback), tested across 12 weeks of use later that year. Mental health variables including anxiety, depression, mental health literacy and help seeking intentions were compared at pre and post app use for each trial.

RESULTS

Improvements in mental health literacy, anxiety and help seeking intentions towards smartphone apps improved in trial 1, changes in all other variables were insignificant. Trial 2 did not demonstrate any significant changes across all variables of interest.

CONCLUSIONS

The initial hypothesis was partially supported by findings, the second hypothesis was not supported. The absence of observed worsening of all variables of interest across time are a promising observation given the timing of each trial during teaching semesters. The lack of predicted improvement in mental health outcomes in the second trial compared to the first highlights the importance of iterative design and testing where changes may not always result in measurable improvements.

CLINICALTRIAL

Two trials were included in the current manuscript. Trial 1 was registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12622001054707). Trial 2 was registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12623000131651).
Efficacy of continuous glucose monitoring for finding unusual causes of hyperglycemia: a clinical case
Authors: Urbanovych A.M. , Laniush F.V.
Published: October 2024

Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires constant blood glucose self-monitoring. The carbohydrate metabolism compensation is usually assessed by the level of glycated hemoglobin. But it does not always help reveal the true cause of poor glycemic control. The devices for continuous glucose monitoring allows to assess blood glucose level in real time and find unusual causes of hyper- and hypoglycemia. Achieving target glycemic levels is influen­ced by many factors: age of patients, duration of diabetes, eating habits and eating disorders, level of education, patient’s understan­ding of the diabetes course. One of the reasons for not reaching the target levels of glycemia can be hyperphagic eating disorders, such as night eating syndrome. According to the American Psychiatric Association classification, night eating syndrome belongs to the category of “Other specified eating disorders”. Diagnostic criteria in this syndrome include consumption of > 25 % of food from the daily diet after dinner or at least 2 cases per week of food consumption at night; awareness of these episodes; and at least 3 of the following: morning anorexia, uncontrollable desire to eat between dinner and sleep or at night, conviction that eating will help you fall asleep or return to sleep, insomnia and/or bad mood in the morning. The prevalence of night eating syndrome in the general population is 1.1 %, and in those who refer to metabolic surgery specialists, it is 2–20 %. The presence of night eating syndrome in diabetes adversely affects metabolic control and complicates the management of these patients, in particular, they have higher levels of HbA1c, blood pressure and body mass index compared to individuals without such eating disorder. In this case report, we describe a patient with poor glycemic control who used continuous glucose monitor and was diagnosed with night eating syndrome that helped change management and achieve normoglycemia in the evening and nighttime.
Interrogating Sexual Harassment in Wanjiru Waithaka’s The Unbroken Spirit
Authors: Magu Agnes Muthoni
Published: October 2024

Interrogation of Wanjiru Waithaka’s The Unbroken Spirit is an exploration of a woman writer’s self perspective on sexual harassment as an act of violation, which men use to display brutality on the female body. Through literary representation, sexual harassment enters into the discourse of gender power relations. Thus, Waithaka makes the image of an oppressed as well as an exploited woman accessible both to the reader and the critic. Her textual depiction of the sexually harassed female is the backdrop against which interrogation of sexual harassment is made.
Cost-Effective Dust Detection on Solar PV Panels through Deep Learning: A Step towards Automated Maintenance Systems
Authors: Rai Jeewan , Kinzang  , Choden Yeshi Jigme
Published: October 2024

Abstract: Accumulation of dust on solar panels impacts the overall efficiency and the amount of energy it produces. Detecting and mitigating dust accumulation is therefore crucial for optimizing solar energy production. While various techniques exist for detecting dust to schedule cleaning, many of these methods uses licensed software like MATLAB, which can be financially burdensome. This study proposes the use of modified pre-trained ResNet-50 model architecture with an adjusted fully connected layer for binary classification. An experimental setup was installed utilizing a single 75 Wp panel with an inclination maintained at 30-degree angle. The fine dirt particles were artificially introduced and datasets of images of clean and dusty panels were collected from five different sides were taken, to compensate for the surface reflectance from the PV panel due to camera angles. Those datasets were used to train and test the model and the accuracy achieved was 90%. The model's ability to detect dust with minimal false positives ensures more efficient maintenance scheduling. This research demonstrates the potential of AI-driven dust detection systems to enhance the operational efficiency of solar PV installations.
Post-approval changes in Labelling regulations in the United States, European Union and Canada
Authors: Shegokar Yash , Dhawad Sakshi , Kale Vinita , Harane Suankit , Umekar Milind
Published: October 2024

The review “Post-approval changes in Labelling Regulations in the United States, Europe and Canada” goes into the details and consequences of post-approval changes in labeling regulations for pharmaceutical products. It covers the concept of post-approval changes and outlines the key areas of changes, such as various elements of product lifecycle management, market access, innovation, risk control, and legal compliance for manufacturers in the United States, Europe, and Canada. Apart from that, the abstract discusses the similarities and differences in labeling regulations across the regions in authority, structure, and the affected changes. In summary, the abstract outlines the complexities and effects of post-approval-related changes in labeling regulations concerning the pharmaceutical industry in multiple jurisdictions and the challenges encountered in implementing them. More specifically, the issues include differing regulatory frameworks and varying interpretations; operator compliance, safety evaluation and management; consolidation approaches; and the influence of digitalization and automation as a pivotal and minor player.
A Review on a Drug Registration Process in United Kingdom
Authors: Kulkarni Yash B. , Kothari Lokesh P.
Published: October 2024

This review outlines the regulatory modifications in several pharmaceutical industries that have been impacted by Brexit and develops new standards-based recommendations from the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). To get insight into the regulatory changes that occurred in the pharmaceutical industry during the dissolution of Europe and Britain, retrospective and contemporaneous reviews were used. As the transition period concluded, the MHRA issued a library of new guidelines on January 1, 2021. The several pharmaceutical industries covered by this guidance include clinical trials, medical equipment, imports and exports of Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for approving medicinal products in the UK. The agency offers various routes for marketing authorisation, including national, international, and decentralised procedures. The national routes include a 150-day assessment, rolling review, European Commission (EC) Decision Reliance Procedure, decentralised and mutual recognition reliance procedure, and unfettered access procedure for marketing authorisations approved in Northern Ireland. International routes include Project Orbis and Access Consortium. Applicants must submit their applications through the MHRA submissions portal in electronic Common Technical Document (eCTD) format. The agency verifies the technical validity of submissions using the Lorenz Docubridge validation tool. The MHRA offers fast-track marketing authorisation for products with strong public health benefits or those addressing supply shortages. Applications that do not meet guidelines will be rejected, and applicants must resubmit after correcting errors. Understanding MHRA guidelines and requirements facilitates market entry for medicinal products in the UK.
Conclusion: Any medicinal agent to be marked in the United Kingdom has to follow the guidelines and regulations given by the MHRA a regulatory authority which approve drug products.
The objective of the review article is to highlights information regarding the requirements. Different types routes in registration of medicinal products in a market in the United Kingdom knowing the requirements of the MHRA guidelines, it is too easy for a product to get into the UK market.
Quantum teleportation implies symmetry-protected topological order
Authors: Hong Yifan , Stephen David T. , Friedman Aaron J.
Published: October 2024

We constrain a broad class of teleportation protocols using insights from locality. In the ``standard'' teleportation protocols we consider, all outcome-dependent unitaries are Pauli operators conditioned on linear functions of the measurement outcomes. We find that all such protocols involve preparing a ``resource state'' exhibiting symmetry-protected topological (SPT) order with Abelian protecting symmetry Gk=(Z2×Z2)k. The k logical states are teleported between the edges of the chain by measuring the corresponding 2k string order parameters in the bulk and applying outcome-dependent Paulis. Hence, this single class of nontrivial SPT states is both necessary and sufficient for the standard teleportation of k qubits. We illustrate this result with several examples, including the cluster state, variants thereof, and a nonstabilizer hypergraph state.
REGIONAL DIFFERENTIATION OF POPULATION INCOME IN RUSSIA: NEW TRENDS AND FACTORS
Authors:   Institute of National Economic Forecasting of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Ivanova E.I.
Published: October 2024

The purpose of the article is to determine the main trends in changes in the regional differentiation of the living standard of the Russian population for the period 2005-2022. Methods: the assessment is based on the results of the dynamics analysis of the indicators of the population share with an income below the subsistence minimum (SLM) and the ratio of the average per capita income (API) and SLM using the index method and identifying the nature of regional asymmetry. Results: It is shown that the dynamics of regional differentiation of living standards indicators during 2005–2011 had a smoothing nature, the indicator of the share of the population with incomes below the GPM during 2013–2022 was of an asymmetric nature of change, changes in the values of the ratio of the SD and GPM in 2011–2017 were of a neutral type, and since 2018 – of an asymmetric type. The distribution of the subjects of the Russian Federation by groups of values of complex income indices showed a steady increase in the number of regions with high and average values of the indicator, a decrease in those included in low-income groups, while pronounced intraregional asymmetry was observed in a small number of subjects of the Russian Federation. Among the main factors determining the direction of regional differentiation, the author highlights societal, socio-economic, and socio-managerial factors. Particular attention is paid to the study of the influence of the subjective administrative factor, the adoption of management decisions in changing the methodology for calculating income indicators.
PATRIOTISM AS THE BASIS OF CIVIL IDENTITY OF MODERN STUDENT YOUTH
Authors:   Central Russian Institute of Management, Branch of RANEPA, ALEKSEYENOK A.A. , ISAEV A.V. ,   Central Russian Institute of Management, Branch of RANEPA, NALIVAIKO K.V. ,   Central Russian Institute of Management, Branch of RANEPA
Published: October 2024

The purpose of the work is to conduct an empirical sociological analysis of patriotism as the basis of the civic identity of modern student youth. Patriotism illustrates the emotional connection of a person with his homeland and a sense of social and cultural connection with his fellow citizens. It is based on universal human values, including openness to other people, care and responsibility for society, respect for history and national culture. The ongoing political, social and cultural changes open up new facets of love for the Motherland, which actualizes the need for patriotic education of new generations. This concept is a socio-cultural factor in the integration of people, ensuring their unification on the basis of common values and love for the Motherland. Patriotism finds its manifestation in citizenship, spiritual unity and conscious activity of the individual in society, confirming the inseparability of man with the state. The empirical basis of the study is based on the results of a sociological survey of students of universities and colleges in Orel (652 respondents were interviewed), conducted by the questionnaire method on the stated issues in October 2022 using the Yandex.Forms platform. The representativeness of the sample is ensured according to the gender and the form of education (student youth). Due to the nature of the sample, the authors were able to summarize the results of the study with a reliability level of 97%. The obtained research material allows us to formulate the following conclusions and generalizations: with a certain reservation, patriotism for modern youth is meaningfully associated with a special historical and cultural heritage, deeply connected with love for the Motherland, readiness to defend it with arms in hand and even give one's life for the freedom of the nation (romantic perception of the fatherland) and attachment to the state (from a positivist point of view).