bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on Student Satisfaction in Private Universities in Sri Lanka
Authors: P.M.R.H Jayasinghe , P.V.C Prasad , K.H.H.K Premarathna , M.V.B Madhumali
Published: May 2023

This study focusing on Student Satisfaction should generally took place within a university system, regardless of state or private. This work focused on the study of the satisfaction of students studying in private universities in Sri Lanka and how selected factors affect to satisfaction of the students. Our study investigated about the components that may had a large influence on student satisfaction, and whether there was a relationship between those factors, as well as what factors had a significant influence on student satisfaction in private universities. The main purpose of this study was to determine whether students are satisfied or not. It is intended to be done with a focus on. Based on the represented sample of 370 students studying in the top five major private universities and higher education in Sri Lanka.The Main objective of this survey was to review the perspective of students studying on private universities in Sri Lanka. Based on the data obtained and to pave the way for improvements and changes to be made in the private university system. This research highlights the importance of student satisfaction in higher education, impact of selected variables to the student satisfaction and the need to focus on improving the quality of education and services provided by the university to positively influence students’ learning experiences and academic performance. By addressing the factors that influence student satisfaction, private institutions of higher education in Sri Lanka can improve their image and reputation, and ultimately provide a more fulfilling experience to their students
Systematic Design of Phonon-Engineered Superconductors: Optimizing Electron Pairing for High-Temperature Superconductivity
Authors: Farschi Esh , Smith John , Kharakov Vladimir , Fuji Mitsuno
Published: May 2023

High-temperature superconductivity (HTS), occurring above 77 K, promises significant advancements in energy-efficient technologies. Despite extensive research, a comprehensive understanding of HTS remains elusive, and discovering new materials or mechanisms has been largely serendipitous. This study presents a novel explanation for HTS, focusing on manipulating phonon-mediated electron pairing through enhancing electron-phonon coupling and optimizing phonon density of states (DOS). The proposed approach provides a systematic pathway for designing materials exhibiting HTS. Experimental results confirm successful realization of HTS in a new class of materials, termed "phonon-engineered superconductors" (PESCs), offering a promising platform for future research and technological advancements.
A New Ab Initio Algorithm for Structure Prediction of Peptides, Theory, Software and Database
Authors: Ru Xiao , Yao Hanrui , Lu Haorui , Yuan Bowen , Li Zhifeng
Published: May 2023

We present a new fragment-based algorithm to solve the problem of structural prediction for peptide molecules using ab initio calculation. We developed an operation of multilevel ensemble assembly derived from the theory of statistical physics and adopted the structural optimization at the quantum chemistry level. A novel scheme of ensemble acquisition with higher accuracy and completeness is developed specifically for the basic units that act as the initial elements. The ensemble property of fragments at the junction is used to judge the potential of individuals of each block ensemble for construction. The test results show our algorithm is better than the scheme of structure extraction from the Protein Data Bank, which is widely used in biology. We also establish a mathematical form to describe our algorithm and generalize to a framework of a theory appropriate for structural prediction for general linear molecules. Meanwhile, the trial version of this prediction software and peptide database is published.
Straightforward Synthesis of Functionalized γ-Lactams using Impure CO2 Stream as the Carbon Source
Authors: Qin Yuman , Cauwenbergh Robin , Pradhan Suman , Maiti Rakesh , Frank Philippe , Das Shoubhik
Published: May 2023

Direct utilization of CO2 into organic synthesis has found enormous applications to synthesize pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. However, pure CO2 gas is essential to achieve these transformations, and the purification of CO2 is highly cost and energy intensive. Considering this, we have described a straightforward synthetic route for the synthesis of γ-lactams, a pivotal core structure of bioactive molecules, by using commercially available starting materials (alkenes and amines) and impure CO2 stream (exhaust gas collected from the car) as the carbon source. This blueprint features a broad scope, excellent functional group compatibility and has been applied for the late-stage transformation of existing pharmaceuticals and natural products to synthesize functionalized γ-lactams. We believe that our strategy will provide direct access to γ-lactams in a very sustainable way and will also enhance the Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) strategy.
Charging properties and particles dynamics of Chang’E-5 lunar sample in an external electric field
Authors: Gu Junping , Qian Xiaoyu , Liu Yiwei , Wang Qinggong , Zhang Yiyang , Ruan Xuan , Deng Xiangjin , Lu Yaowen , Song Jian , Zhang Hui , Dong Yunning , Wei Mengmeng , Li Shuiqing , Wang Wei Hua , Zou Zhigang , Yang Mengfei , Yao Wei
Published: May 2023

Facing to the challenges of the lunar regolith resource in-situ utilization, applying an external electric field to manipulate lunar particle becomes a promising space particle control method, which is mainly dependent on the particle charging properties in the applied electric field. In the present work, the surficial lunar regolith sample returned from the Moon by the Chang’E-5 mission (CE5 LS) were used to study its charging properties and particles dynamics under the action of an applied external electric field for high-vacuum condition. Some interesting phenomena regarding the charging process and electrostatic projection were observed and discussed. The experimental data of particle charges, charge-to-mass ratio and the pre-collision parameters of CE5 LS were obtained. Furthermore, the influences of the projected CE5 LS collision on the target colliding surfaces were studied simultaneously. Our work would provide a solid support for the future study of the lunar regolith in-situ utilization and defense.
A new protocol of methamphetamine dependence treatment with taper-up-off treatment of opium tincture, a new hope to cure the methamphetamine addiction
Authors: Dezhakam Hossein , Dezhakam Amin , Dezhakam Shani , Dezhakam Ani , Haghighatfard Arvin
Published: May 2023

Methamphetamine is a neurotoxic drug and highly addictive stimulant, which causes a significant psychological dependence in use disorder and potential brain damage even in the first use disorder. Despite decades of research, no approved pharmacotherapy is available for methamphetamine (METH) use disorder, and behavioral therapies are faced with a great lack of long-term recovery and a high rate of relapse. Opium tincture is air-dried Papaver somniferum latex, formulated for oral administration. The present study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the new protocol for taper up-off method of opium tincture used for treatment of methamphetamine addiction in Iran, for more than 10 years. In the present study, the effectiveness of the Opium tincture taper-up-off treatment method for methamphetamine dependence called "Dezhakam step time (DST) for methamphetamine" was assessed. We used data collected via the "Congress 60" a non-governmental organization in Iran, dedicated to addiction treatment with the DST method, from Jan 2018 until December 2020. We evaluated the treatment safety, success, and relapse rate in methamphetamine dependents treated in the "Congress 60" organization with the DST for methamphetamine method. All subjects were tested using Urine drug monitoring for both opioid and methamphetamine use after the treatment period and during the next two years as a follow-up. Findings revealed 89 percent of successful treatments for methamphetamine dependence and only 11 percent of substance abuse relapses in two years follow up. Also, less than one percent of the subjects that finished the treatment program abused opioids in two years follow up. Findings suggest the safety and effectiveness of the Opium tincture taper-up-off method in the treatment of methamphetamine dependence. The findings of the study may help to a better understanding of a safe potential novel method for methamphetamine dependence treatment and its effects on psychological dependence on psychostimulants.
Comparative Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Efficacy and Toxicity of Bepostastine Besilate 1,5% Preservative-free vs Olopatadine Hydrochloride 0,2 Bak-preserved in Patients With Allergic Conjuctivitis
Authors: Marini Maria Cecilia , Berra Martín L. , Girado Fernanda , Albera Paula , Papa Melina S. del , Passerini María Silvia , Aguilar Alejandro
Published: May 2023

Purpose: To study the efficacy and toxic effects on ocular surface of bepotastine besilate 1,5% preservative-free (BB-PF) in comparison to olopatadine 0,2% BAK-preserved (OL-BAK) eyedrops in patients with allergic conjunctivitis.
Methods: 97 patients with allergic conjunctivitis diagnosis participate in a prospective, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, controlled, parallel-groups clinical trial. Patients received BB-PF (n=48) or OL-BAK (n= 49) both applied once a day at morning. Patients were followed for 60 days of treatment. Primary efficacy outcome was ocular itching. Secondary outcomes included ocular symptoms and signs, non-ocular symptoms associated with rhinoconjunctivitis. Conjunctival impression cytology (CIC) was performed to evaluate histopathology changes related with preservatives toxic effects.
Results: BB-PF treatment was associated with 1.30 more probability to diminished ocular itching in comparison to OL-BAK OR: 1.3 (CI 95% 0.96-1.7) p= 0.086. There were not any statistically significance between treatments in others ocular symptoms or signs, except for tearing that was superior in BB-PF (OR: 1.37 CI 95% 1.26-1.47, p<0.0001). BB-PF was superior in the resolution of rhinorrhea (p=0.040) and nasal itching (p= 0.037). BB-PF treatment was associated with 2.0 more probability to present a lower grade of Nelson scale in comparison to OL-BAK through 60 days of treatment OR: 2.00 (CI 95% 1.19-3.34), p= 0.010).
Conclusions: Both medications under study presented a similar profile in the resolution of ocular signs of symptoms associated with ocular conjunctivitis. BB-PF was superior in the resolution of non-ocular symptoms and was safer for the ocular surface in comparison to OL-BAK.
Causes of Excess Capacity in Indian Manufacturing Sector
Authors: Pal Samidh
Published: May 2023

This study delves into the origins of excess capacity by examining the reactions of capital, labor, and capital intensity. To achieve this, we have employed a novel three-layered production function model, estimating the elasticity of substitution between capital and labor as a nested layer, alongside capital intensity, for all industry groups. We have then selectively analyzed a few industry groups for comparative purposes, taking into account the current government policies and manufacturing plant realities. Ultimately, we recommend that policymakers address the issue of excess capacity by stimulating the expansion of manufacturing plants with cutting-edge machinery. Our findings and recommendations are intended to appeal to academics and policymakers alike.
JEL Code: L6, L5.
Determinants and Spatial Patterns of Anaemia and Haemoglobin Concentration among Pregnant Women in Nigeria Using Structured Additive Regression Models
Authors: Adeniyi Isaac Adeola , Ezenweke Chinenye Pauline , Yahya Waheed Babatunde , Onoja Rhoda Enemona
Published: May 2023

Anaemia which is a condition that describes low haemoglobin (Hb) levels has been recognized as a major public health problem among pregnant women in many sub-Saharan African countries including Nigeria. The causes of maternal anaemia which are interconnected and complex vary between countries and can vary within a country. This study aimed to investigate the spatial pattern and identify demographic and socio-economic determinants associated with anaemia among Nigerian pregnant women aged 15-49 years using data from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). This study utilized chi-square tests of independence and semiparametric structured additive models to describe the relationship between the presumed factors and anaemia status or Hb level while also taking spatial effects at state level into account. The Gaussian and Binomial distributions were used for Hb level and anaemia status respectively. The overall observed prevalence of anaemia in pregnant women and average Hb level in Nigeria were 64% and 10.4 (SD = 1.6) g/dL respectively while the prevalence of mild, moderate and severe anaemia were 27.2%, 34.6% and 2.2% respectively. Higher education, older age, and currently breastfeeding were associated with higher Hb level. Low education, being unemployed and recently having a sexually transmitted infection were identified as risk factors for maternal anaemia. Body mass index (BMI) and household size had a nonlinear effect on Hb level while BMI and age were nonlinearly related to odds of anaemia. Bivariate analysis indicated that living in rural area, low wealth class, using unsafe water and non-usage of internet were significantly associated with increased risk of anaemia. Maternal anaemia prevalence was highest in the South Eastern part of Nigeria with Imo state producing the highest prevalence of maternal anaemia while Cross River state yielded the lowest prevalence of maternal anaemia. The spatial effects associated with states were significant but unstructured indicating that states in close proximity do not necessarily share similar spatial effects. Hence, unobserved characteristics shared by states in close proximity do not influence maternal anaemia and Hb level. The findings from this study can undoubtedly help in the planning and designing of anaemia interventions that match local conditions taking into consideration the aetiology of anaemia in Nigeria.
Structural insights into redox enzymes of anaerobic aromatic degradation and flavin-based electron bifurcation
Authors:   , Kayastha Kanwal
Published: May 2023

The main aim of this thesis work was to elucidate the catalytic mechanism of several enzyme complexes on the basis of their three-dimensional structure. All investigated enzyme complexes occur in the anaerobic energy metabolism and have an essential function by the challenging degradation of aromatic compounds and the flavin-based electron bifurcation (FBEB)/confurcation, an energy-coupling mechanism. More specifically, I studied the phthaloyl-CoA decarboxylase of Thauera chlorobenzoica (Pcd) involved in phthalate ester decomposition, the FBEB protein complexes lactate dehydrogenase/electron-transfer flavoprotein (Ldh/EtfAB) of Acetobacterium woodii, the heterodisulfide-related subunit HdrA of the sulfur- oxidizing bacteria Hyphomicrobium denitrificans (sHdrA). In addition, I contributed to the structure determination of the caffeyl-CoA reductase- EtfAB complex of A. woodii and the naphthoyl-CoA reductase of the sulfate-respiring enrichment culture N47 (mentioned in the Appendix E and F).
Ética, conflitos em campo e sua textualização
Authors: Paula Tayná Almeida de
Published: May 2023

No presente relato etnográfico descrevo uma série de questões voltadas à ética, conflitos em campo e sua textualização, no contexto de pesquisa com um grupo alagoano de folguedo popular intitulado Guerreiro. Trato, em particular, de algumas experiências vivenciadas no ano de 2019 em uma viagem de nove dias à Romaria do Padre Cícero Romão, em Juazeiro do Norte/CE, a partir da qual minha posicionalidade de “pesquisadora”, possível “romeira” e “membra da família” de alguns interlocutores de pesquisa criou um lugar fronteiriço de interrogação aos mitos fundadores da disciplina antropológica, tal como a doutrina de objetividade científica. Nesse sentido, perpassando através da observação participante por questões de gênero, etnia e raça, classe, religiosidade, geração e escolaridade, apresento uma experiência de campo que complexifica a distinção entre Eus e Outros na centralidade do paradigma antropológico.
Código da Noite
Authors: Costa Guilherme Teixeira , Garcia-Ruiz Manuel
Published: May 2023

A noite de Lisboa tem sido objeto de várias interpretações da realidade, inspirando múltiplas narrativas ao longo da história e da literatura popular. No entanto, o estudo da vida noturna apenas tem vindo a ganhar relevância nos últimos anos. Dentro deste cenário, a noite faz reemergir uma arena de conflito político entre as políticas pandémicas e as políticas anti-pandemia (NOFRE; GARCIA-RUIZ, 2020). Torna-se necessário, agora mais do que nunca, escapar às visões estigmatizadas da noite insalubre e questionar o estado da arte em que a noite lisboeta se encontra.
Preparation of Nano-Metal-Oxide Incorporated Biochar for Remediation of Water Pollution
Authors: Arar Ozgur
Published: May 2023

Background:

Because of its numerous advantages, biochar has been widely used to remove
contaminants from aqueous media for several years. However, unmodified biochar often exhibits
low sorption capacity. Therefore, various nano-sized metal oxides have been developed to
modify biochar and improve its ability to remove impurities

Objective:

This review aims to provide information on preparing and applying biochar loaded with
nano-sized metal oxides to treat pollutants in water samples.

Results:

Raw biochar has limited applicability/capacity for certain pollutants, such as inorganic anions.
However, modification with metal oxides improved removal performance, sorption capacity,
and selectivity.

Conclusion:

Biochar loaded with metal oxides is believed to be an environmentally friendly alternative
for treating polluted water. Selective sorbents with high capacity and fast kinetics towards
undesirable solutes can be produced using suitable metal oxides. The sorbent can remove pollutants
from solutions with a high removal rate
Survey of IoMT Interference Mitigation Techniques for Wireless Body Area Networks (WBANs)
Authors: Ahmad Izaz , Abul Hassan Muhammad , Ullah Khan Inam , Farhatullah
Published: May 2023

Medical data can be stored and analyzed using the Internet of Medical
Things (IoMT), which is a collection of smart devices that link to a wireless body area
network (WBAN) using mobile edge computing (MEC). The Wireless Body Area
Network (WBAN) is the most practical, cost-effective, easily adaptable, and non invasive electronic health monitoring technology. WBAN consists of a coordinator and
several sensors for monitoring the biological indications and jobs of the human body.
The exciting field has led to a new research and standardization process, especially in
​WBAN performance and consistency. In duplicated mobility or WBASN scenarios,
signal integrity is unstable, and system performance is greatly reduced. Therefore, the
reduction of disturbances in the project must be considered. WBAN performance may
compromise if co-existing other wireless networks are available. A complete detailed
analysis of coexistence and mitigation solutions in WBAN technology is discussed in
this paper. In particular, the low power consumption of IEEE 802.15.6 and IEEE
802.15.4, 3 of one of WBAN's leading Wi-Fi wireless technologies, have been
investigated. It will elaborate on a comparison of WBAN interference mitigation
schemes.
Artificial Intelligence-Based IoT Applications in Future Pandemics
Authors: Virman Tarun , Sharma Anjali , Sharma Ashwani , Kumar Girish , Bhati Meenu
Published: May 2023

One of the greatest issues confronting the globe now is the pandemic disease
calamity. Since December 2019, the world has been battling with COVID-19
pandemic. The COVID-19 crisis has made human life more difficult. Decision-making
systems are urgently needed by healthcare institutions to deal with such pandemics and
assist them with appropriate suggestions in real-time and prevent their spreading. To
avoid and monitor a pandemic outbreak, healthcare delivery involves the use of new
technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), the internet of things (IoT) and
machine learning (ML). AI is reshaping the healthcare system to tackle the pandemic
situation. AI is the science and engineering of creating intelligent machines to give
them the ability to think, attain and exceed human intelligence. The advancement in the
use of AI and IoT-based surveillance systems aids in detecting infected individuals and
isolating them from non-infected individuals utilizing previous data. By assessing and
interpreting data using AI technology, the IoT-based system employs parallel
computing to minimize and prevent pandemic disease. In a pandemic crisis, the ability
of ML or AI-based IoT systems in healthcare has provided its capacity to monitor and
reduce the growth of the spread of pandemic disease. It has even been shown to reduce
medical expenditures and enhance better therapy for infected individuals. This chapter
majorly focuses on the applications of AI-based IoT systems in tracking pandemics.
The ML-based IoT could be a game-changer in epidemic surveillance. With the proper
implementation of proposed inventions, academicians, government officials and
experts can create a better atmosphere to tackle the pandemic disease.
A Survey on Brain-Computer Interface and Related Applications
Authors: Pai Krishna , Kallimani Rakhee , Iyer Sridhar , Uma Maheswari B. , Khanai Rajashri , Torse Dattaprasad
Published: May 2023

Brain Computer Interface (BCI) systems are able to communicate directly
between the brain and computer using neural activity measurements without the
involvement of muscle movements. For BCI systems to be widely used by people with
severe disabilities, long-term studies of their real-world use are needed, along with
effective and feasible dissemination models. In addition, the robustness of the BCI
systems' performance should be improved, so they reach the same level of robustness
as natural muscle-based health monitoring. In this chapter, we review the recent BCI-related studies, followed by the most relevant applications. We also present the key
issues and challenges which exist in regard to the BCI systems and also provide future
directions.
Gut Microbiota and Host Immune System in Cancer
Authors: Sunita Priyashree , Prasad Pattanayak Shakti , Ranjan Gaurav , Bose Pritha
Published: May 2023

The mammalian gut is inhabited by more than 100 billion symbiotic
microorganisms. The microbial colony residing in the host is recognised as microbiota.
One of the critical functions of microbiota is to prevent the intestine against exogenous
and harmful pathogen colonization mediated by various mechanistic pathways
involving direct competition for limited nutrients and regulation of host immunity.
Cancer accounts for one of the leading causes of mortality arising from multifactorial
abnormalities. The interconnection of microbiota with various pathological conditions
including cancer is recently being researched extensively for analysing tumor
induction, progression, inhibition and diagnosis. The diversified microbial colony
inhabiting the human gut possesses a vast and distinct metabolic repertoire
complementary to the mammalian enzyme activity in the liver as well as gut mucosa
which facilitates processes essential for host digestion. Gut microbiota is often
considered the critical contributor to defining the biochemical profile of diet thus
impacting the health and disease of the hosts. This chapter mainly focuses on
understanding the complex microbial interaction with cancer either negatively or
positively which may help to conceive novel precautionary and therapeutic strategies to
fight cancer.
Mechanism of Probiotic Action in Anticancer Immunity
Authors: Lakshmi Ragavan Mangala , Das Nilanjana
Published: May 2023

Gut microbiota plays a significant role in human physiology which includes
metabolism, nutrition uptake and immune responses. The imbalance of gut microbiota
leads to various disorders or diseases like inflammatory bowel disease, infectious
diseases, cancer and obesity. Cancer is one of the major health problems worldwide.
Moreover, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common cancer in humans which is
considered the fourth leading health problem worldwide. The role of probiotics in the
regulation of CRC includes enhancement of immune barrier function, intestinal
immune state, inhibition of enzymatic activity, cell proliferation and apoptosis, redox
homeostasis, and modifying the composition of intestinal microbiota. It can be treated
using chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgical eradication. However, these treatments
may cause the demolition of the intestinal mucosal barrier system as well as
dysfunction of the immune system in cancer patients. Hence, biotherapeutic drugs are
used along with probiotics and their metabolites viz. polysaccharides, short-chain fatty
acids, and inhibitory compounds like proteins and other substances to treat cancer.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is a widely used probiotic strain in oncology.
Also, it has been proven to exert beneficial effects on cancer patients after anticancer
therapy. Therapeutic potential of the gut microbiome in cancer treatment via the
administration of probiotic supplementations is being investigated using several clinical
studies. Probiotic-incorporated biotheraupetic drugs are considered an alternative
medicine for various types of cancer. The effectiveness of biotheraupetic drugs mainly
depends on the dosage of probiotic strain and their exposure time. However, the
mechanism behind the role of probiotics in cancer immunity is unclear so far. The
present work summarizes the action of probiotics in anticancer immunity.
Probiotics-based Anticancer Immunity in Breast Cancer
Authors: Masood Nosheen , Shakil Malik Saima
Published: May 2023

 A growing number of evidence is available in support of the advantageous
role of a balanced intestinal microbiota in the progression and manifestation of
malignant tumors, not only in the gastrointestinal tract but in other distant tissues as
well, with the most potential role in breast carcinoma. Breast cancer involves a
complex interplay of several factors, such as familial history, use of hormonal
replacement therapy, dietary habits, lifestyle, environment, clinical features, genetics
and epigenetics. Recently, a positive correlation between a patient’s breast microbiome
and cancer has beocme a novel potential risk factor. In the present chapter, we tried to
discuss the role of microbiome as a potential breast cancer risk factor and tried to
investigate the literature focussing on the proposed mechanisms behind the interaction
of microbiome, human genetic makeup involved in the onset of breast carcinogenesis
and determining the effect of transformed breast, milk and gut microbiome on the
physiological status of both normal and malignant breast. We also tried to shed light on
the resistance to chemotherapeutic treatment among individuals with altered
microbiomes with an emphasis on the role of the microbiome in developing and
maintaining inflammation, epigenetic alterations and estrogen metabolism.
Interestingly, bacterial species are indispensable modulatory agents of widely used
chemotherapeutic/ immunotherapeutic regiments. But the exact role of commensal
bacteria in immunity, formation of neoplasia and response to treatment needs much
more research because most of the available knowledge is based on animal model
studies and needs its translation to humans which requires great precision and has
various hurdles too. Therefore, we tried to give a comprehensive overview of current
knowledge in terms of breast cancer therapeutics and suggest integrating probiotic
bacteria and/or modulation of the intestinal microbiota to be used as immune adjuvants,
targeting to enhance the effectiveness of conventional anti-tumor treatments and cancer
immunotherapies as well.
Люминесценция ионов марганца и хрома в соединениях со структурой шпинели
Authors: Хайдуков Н.М. , Бреховских М.Н. , Кирикова Н.Ю. , Кондратюк В.А. , Махов В.Н.
Published: May 2023

Single-phase ceramic samples of MgAl2O4, ZnAl2O4 and LiAl5O8 spinels containing manganese or chromium ions have been synthesized by a high-temperature solid-state reactions method. It has been shown that the luminescence properties of the synthesized phosphors, in particular, the appearance of intense red luminescence from Mn4+ ions, as well as the magnitude of inhomogeneous line broadening in the luminescence spectra of Mn4+ и Cr3+ ions depend on the degree of cation inversion, which provides the charge compensation for stabilizing Mn4+ ions in the octahedral sites of the spinel structures upon the substitution of Al3+ ions, simultaneously resulting in disordered spinel crystal structures.
Моделирование кристаллического поля, магнитоупругих взаимодействий и случайных деформаций решетки в пирохлоре Pr-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-Zr-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-O-=SUB=-7-=/SUB=-
Authors: Клековкина В.В. , Абишев Н.М.
Published: May 2023

We present the results of simulations of the spectral and thermodynamic properties of frustrated Pr2Zr2O7 crystals using the distribution function of random strains induced by point defects in an elastically anisotropic continuum.
Двойное комптоновское рассеяние фотона атомным ионом
Authors: Хоперский А.Н. , Надолинский А.М.
Published: May 2023

The analytical structure, absolute values, and angular anisotropy of the four-fold differential cross sections of the nonlocal and local double bremsstrahlung are theoretically predicted when an X-ray photon is scattered by a multicharged helium-like atomic ion
Влияние дополнительных монопольных выбросов электронов на зарядовые спектры конечных ионов при каскадном распаде электронных вакансий в атоме золота
Authors: Чайников А.П. , Кочур А.Г. , Дуденко А.И. , Явна В.А.
Published: May 2023

The probabilities of the formation of final ions produced by the cascade decays of vacancies in the K, L, M, N, and O shells of the gold atom are calculated. Simulation of the cascade decays of vacancies is performed by direct construction and analysis of decay trees using branching ratios and transition energies calculated in the Pauli–Fock approximation for multivacancy electron configurations arising in the course of the cascade decay. Accounting for additional monopole ejections of electrons (shake-off) accompanying the cascade transitions leads to a slight increase in the average charges of the final ions, by 0.15–0.23e. The largest relative increase in the calculated average charges of the final ions (by 3.6–3.9%) is observed upon the cascade decay of vacancies in 4p3/2, 4d3/2, and 4d5/2 subshells, and the smallest (by 0.8%) occurs in the decay of 4f-vacancy. Despite insignificant changes in the average ion charges, the structure of the charge spectra in some cases changes noticeably enough when additional electron ejections are taken into account. It is expected that in simulation of the cascade energy reemission processes when heavy atoms are used as radiosensitizers, the effect of accounting for shake-off processes will be insignificant.
Comparing Two Strategies for Locating Hydrogen Refueling Stations under High Demand Uncertainty
Authors: Thiel Daniel
Published: May 2023

This research aims to model and compare two strategies for locating new hydrogen refueling stations (HRS) in a context of high uncertainty on H2 demand and on the spatial distribution of demand points. The first strategy S1 represented by an agent-based model integrating a particle swarm optimization metaheuristic consists of finding the best HRS locations by adapting to the real evolution of the demand. A second strategy S2 consists in solving a classical capacitated p-median problem based on H2 consumption forecasts over a given deterministic horizon in order to define in advance p optimal future HRS locations. Assuming that the same distributor gradually implements future HRSs in a given area between 2023 and 2030, both models minimize the sum of travel distances between each demand point and its assigned SRH. The results show that during the growth phase of the fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) market, with two different compound annual growth rates (medium and strong), the conservative S1 strategy performs better than S2 as these rates increase. However, while S2 remains suboptimal throughout the sales growth period, it becomes more effective once demand stabilizes. Another finding is that different uniform distributions of H2 demand points in the same space have only a small long-term influence on the performance of these two models. This research advises investors to study the influence of different location strategies and models on the performance of a final HRS network in a given region. Models can be easily configured and adapted to a particular spatial distribution of demand points in a specific environment, more flexible H2 production capabilities, or different behaviors of FCEV drivers that could be geo-located.
Cost-Effectiveness Analyses of Digital Health Technology for Improving the Uptake of Vaccination Programs: Systematic Review
Authors: Wang Yingcheng , Fekadu Ginenus , You Joyce Hoi-sze
Published: May 2023

Background

Vaccination is the most effective strategy to prevent infectious diseases, yet vaccination coverage has not reached the target level. To promote vaccination uptake, digital health interventions (DHIs) have been used in various vaccination programs.

Objective

This study aimed to perform a systematic review of the cost-effectiveness analyses of DHIs for the improvement of the uptake of vaccination programs.

Methods

A literature review was conducted in MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), APA PsycINFO (Ovid), Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL Ultimate (EBSCOhost), Center for Review and Dissemination, and Institute for IEEE Xplore up to October 2022. Health economic evaluations that met the following inclusion criteria were included: (1) adult or pediatric vaccination programs; (2) interventions delivered through digital technology; (3) full-scale health economic analyses including cost-effectiveness, cost-utility, cost-benefit, or cost-consequence analyses; and (4) evaluations conducted by model-based or trial-based analyses. The quality of each included study was evaluated using the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS).

Results

The systematic review included 7 studies. Four of the cost-effectiveness studies were conducted by model-based analyses, and 3 were trial-based analyses. One study reported the additional cost per quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) gained, whereas 6 studies reported the additional cost per individual vaccinated (or return case). The vaccines targeted the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, influenza vaccination, measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, and children immunization at different ages. The DHIs were delivered by television campaign, web-based decision aid, SMS text message, telephone, and computer-generated recall letters. The studies were classified as very good (n=5) and good (n=2) qualities. One study concluded that the DHI was cost-saving, and 6 studies concluded that the DHI was cost-effective.

Conclusions

This study is the first systematic review on cost-effectiveness analyses of DHIs to improve vaccination uptake. All included studies have good to very good quality on study assessment and reported the DHIs to be cost-saving or cost-effective in the improvement of vaccination uptake.
Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Data Sharing to Encourage Collaboration Among Older Adults With Type 1 Diabetes and Their Care Partners: Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Bristol Alycia A , Litchman Michelle , Berg Cynthia , Grigorian Ernest , Small Denise , Glazener Ashley , Jones Christopher , Allen Nancy A
Published: May 2023

Background

Persons with diabetes use continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to self-manage their diabetes. Care partners (CPs) frequently become involved in supporting persons with diabetes in the management of their diabetes. However, persons with diabetes and CP dyads may require more communication and problem-solving skills regarding how to share and respond to CGM data.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to describe the experiences of persons with diabetes and CPs who participated in the Share “plus” intervention, which addresses dyadic communication strategies, problem-solving, and action planning to promote sharing of CGM data among the dyad.

Methods

Ten dyads participated in the Share “plus” telehealth intervention. Participants were interviewed during and after the Share “plus” intervention. Thematic analysis was used to analyze interview data.

Results

During postsession interviews, dyads described feeling a sense of shared responsibility yet viewed the persons with diabetes as ultimately responsible for the disease. Additionally, dyads shared that communication patterns improved and were able to recognize the negative aspects of previously established communication patterns. Dyads reported communication focused on hypoglycemia episodes while also differing in the frequency they reviewed CGM data and set alerts. Overall, dyads expressed positive reactions to the Share “plus” intervention.

Conclusions

Share “plus” was helpful in promoting positive CGM-related communication among dyads and encouraged more CP support. CPs play an important role in supporting older adults with type 1 diabetes. Communication strategies help support dyad involvement in CGM data sharing and self-management among persons with diabetes.
Observed Interactions, Challenges, and Opportunities in Student-Led, Web-Based Near-Peer Teaching for Medical Students: Interview Study Among Peer Learners and Peer Teachers (Preprint)
Authors: Chan Evelyn Hui Yi , Chan Vernice Hui Yan , Roed Jannie , Chen Julie Yun
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Near-peer teaching (NPT) is becoming an increasingly popular pedagogical tool in health professions education. Despite the shift in formal medical education from face-to-face teaching toward encompassing web-based learning activities, NPT has not experienced a similar transition. Apart from the few reports on NPT programs hastily converted to web-based learning in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, no studies to date have explored web-based learning in the specific context of NPT.

OBJECTIVE

This qualitative study examined the nature of interactions among peer learners (PLs), peer teachers (PTs), and the learning content in a student-led, web-based NPT program for medical students.

METHODS

A 5-month-long voluntary NPT program to support first- and second-year medical students’ biomedical science learning in the undergraduate medical curriculum was designed by 2 senior-year medical students and delivered by 25 PTs with 84 PLs participating. In total, 9 PLs and 3 PTs underwent individual semistructured interviews at the end of the program to explore general NPT experience, reasons for joining NPT, the effectiveness of NPT, the demand and importance of NPT, and the feasibility of incorporating NPT in the formal curriculum. Interview transcripts were analyzed using a thematic analysis approach.

RESULTS

The first general theme focused on the nature of student-student, student-teacher, and student-content interactions. Although PLs were engaged in web-based NPT, there was minimal interaction between students, as most PLs preferred to learn passively and remain anonymous. PLs believed the web-based NPT learning process to be a unidirectional transmission of knowledge from teacher to learner, with the teacher responsible for driving the interactions. This was in sharp contrast to PTs’ expectation that both parties shared responsibility for learning in a collaborative effort. The second general theme identified the advantages and disadvantages of delivering NPT on a web platform, which were mainly convenience and teaching skills development and poor interactivity, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Student-led, web-based NPT offers a flexible and comfortable means of delivering academic and nonacademic guidance to medical students. However, the web-based mode of delivery presents unique challenges in facilitating meaningful interactions among PLs, PTs, and subject content. A blended learning approach may be best suited for this form of student-led NPT program to optimize its efficacy.
Machine Learning Model to Predict Assignment of Therapy Homework in Behavioral Treatments: Algorithm Development and Validation (Preprint)
Authors: Peretz Gal , Taylor C Barr , Ruzek Josef I , Jefroykin Samuel , Sadeh-Sharvit Shiri
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Therapeutic homework is a core element of cognitive and behavioral interventions, and greater homework compliance predicts improved treatment outcomes. To date, research in this area has relied mostly on therapists’ and clients’ self-reports or studies carried out in academic settings, and there is little knowledge on how homework is used as a treatment intervention in routine clinical care.

OBJECTIVE

This study tested whether a machine learning (ML) model using natural language processing could identify homework assignments in behavioral health sessions. By leveraging this technology, we sought to develop a more objective and accurate method for detecting the presence of homework in therapy sessions.

METHODS

We analyzed 34,497 audio-recorded treatment sessions provided in 8 behavioral health care programs via an artificial intelligence (AI) platform designed for therapy provided by Eleos Health. Therapist and client utterances were captured and analyzed via the AI platform. Experts reviewed the homework assigned in 100 sessions to create classifications. Next, we sampled 4000 sessions and labeled therapist-client microdialogues that suggested homework to train an unsupervised sentence embedding model. This model was trained on 2.83 million therapist-client microdialogues.

RESULTS

An analysis of 100 random sessions found that homework was assigned in 61% (n=61) of sessions, and in 34% (n=21) of these cases, more than one homework assignment was provided. Homework addressed practicing skills (n=34, 37%), taking action (n=26, 28.5%), journaling (n=17, 19%), and learning new skills (n=14, 15%). Our classifier reached a 72% F1-score, outperforming state-of-the-art ML models. The therapists reviewing the microdialogues agreed in 90% (n=90) of cases on whether or not homework was assigned.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study demonstrate the potential of ML and natural language processing to improve the detection of therapeutic homework assignments in behavioral health sessions. Our findings highlight the importance of accurately capturing homework in real-world settings and the potential for AI to support therapists in providing evidence-based care and increasing fidelity with science-backed interventions. By identifying areas where AI can facilitate homework assignments and tracking, such as reminding therapists to prescribe homework and reducing the charting associated with homework, we can ultimately improve the overall quality of behavioral health care. Additionally, our approach can be extended to investigate the impact of homework assignments on therapeutic outcomes, providing insights into the effectiveness of specific types of homework.
Preferences in the Willingness to Download an mHealth App: Discrete Choice Experimental Study in Spain, Germany, and the Netherlands (Preprint)
Authors: Folkvord Frans , Bol Nadine , Stazi Giacomo , Peschke Lutz , Lupiáñez-Villanueva Francisco
Published: May 2023

BACKGROUND

Despite the worldwide growth in mobile health (mHealth) tools and the possible benefits for both patients and health care providers, the adoption of mHealth is low, and only a limited number of studies have examined the intention to download mHealth apps.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we investigated individuals’ preferences in the adoption of a health app.

METHODS

We conducted a discrete choice experimental study in 3 countries (Spain: n=800, Germany: n=800, and the Netherlands: n=416) with 4 different attributes and levels (ie, price: €1.99 vs €4.99 [a currency exchange rate of €1=US $1.09 is applicable] vs for free, data protection: data protection vs no information, recommendation: patients’ association vs doctors, and manufacturer: medical association vs pharmaceutical company). Participants were randomly assigned. For the analyses, we used the conditional logistic model separately for each country.

RESULTS

The results showed that price and data protection were considered important factors that significantly increased the probability to download an mHealth app. In general, the source of the recommendation and the manufacturer affected the probability to download the mHealth app less. However, in Germany and the Netherlands, we found that if the app was manufactured by a pharmaceutical company, the probability to download the mHealth app decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

mHealth tools are highly promising to reduce health care costs and increase the effectiveness of traditional health interventions and therapies. Improving data protection, reducing costs, and creating sound business models are the major driving forces to increase the adoption of mHealth apps in the future. It is thereby essential to create trustworthy standards for mobile apps, whereby prices, legislation concerning data protection, and health professionals can have a leading role to inform the potential consumers.