bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acceptance of Tuberculosis Monitoring Encouragement Adherence Drive (TMEAD) for Improving Tuberculosis Treatment Adherence in Nasik, Maharashtra
Authors: Saha Somen , Raval Devang , Saxena Deepak , Halkarni Nishad , Doshi Rahul , Rajpurohit Sukan , Rao Raghavendra , Joshi Madhav
Published: September 2023

Background
Drug-sensitive tuberculosis (DSTB) patients often face challenges in adhering to medications. Tuberculosis Monitoring Encouragement Adherence Drive (TMEAD)is an electronic cartridge-based dispensing module that dispenses patients’ daily dose in a small disposable box that provides reminders for Medication consumption and enables remote drug adherence monitoring.
Objective
The present study evaluated the acceptance of TMEAD devices among DSTB patients in Nasik city of Maharashtra.
Methods
Qualitative In-depth interviews (IDI) were conducted with 40 DSTB patients and 16 treatment supporters. IDI were audio recorded. The observations were organized using the outline construct that assessed the technology acceptance into four major themes - performance expectancy (acceptability of the device), effort expectancy (perceived benefit of the device), social influence (saving time and money) and facilitating conditions (availability of medicines).
Results
Acceptance of the TMEAD device was linked to perceptions that the reminder alarm improves treatment adherence and reduces hospital visits. Having patient’s daily medication doses in a box aid in compliance to regular medicine consumption. Patients felt that the healthcare system was more concerned about them, thanks to the device's features & ability to encourage family members to participate in their care. Poor patient acceptability of the device was linked to problems with its dependability, size, charging Issues, and concerns regarding possible stigma. TB health visitors said it lessened the frequency of in-person patient interactions, allowing them to spend more time on other crucial activities. Patients who returned the devices reported that the primary reasons were stigma associated with TB and issues with charging the device and taking the device to the workplace.
Conclusions
Several features of the device support its acceptability among TB patients, while a few difficulties with patient use should be resolved by changing the device design. Specific difficulties, such as stigma associated with the disease, are more challenging to overcome and may restrict device usage. Overall, we conclude that TMEAD intervention has the potential to be integrated into the basket of digital adherence intervention under India’s National TB Elimination program.
Digitalität und Ethnografie
Authors: Klausner Martina , Eckhardt Dennis
Published: September 2023

Die Felder ethnografischer Forschung sind ebenso wie die forschende, wissenschaftliche Praxis ohne digitale Verfahren und Technologien kaum mehr vorstellbar. Ethnograf:innen begegnen ihren Forschungspartner:innen im Internet, nutzen deren Chataussagen und Forumsbeiträge als Forschungsmaterial, folgen Akteur:innen in Sozialen Medien. Sie sitzen aber auch neben ihnen, während sie programmieren, oder aber spazieren mit ihnen durch datengesättigte Stadträume. In der Einleitung zu unserem Band Digital[ität] Ethnografieren fragen wir, was diese zunehmende Normalität und Ubiquität des Digitalen für die epistemische Praxis des Ethnografierens bedeutet. Wir argumentieren, dass auch im Ethnografieren von mehr-als-digitalen Feldern und mit dem Einsatz computationeller Verfahren die Kernprinzipien ethnografischer Forschung erhalten bleiben: eine grundlegende Flexibilität und Anpassungsfähigkeit an die untersuchten Forschungsgegenstände, eine kontinuierliche Reflexion der getroffenen Forschungsentscheidungen und eine Sensibilität für die Faktoren, die sowohl die Forschung als auch die untersuchten Felder formieren und strukturieren. Welche methodischen Konsequenzen und Herausforderungen sich hieraus ergeben können und wie man ihnen begegnen kann, zeigen die Beiträge in diesem Band auf, die wir in dieser Einleitung vorstellen.
Multiple Andreev reflections in diffusive SINIS and SIFIS junctions
Authors: Polkin Artem V. , Ioselevich Pavel A.
Published: September 2023

We study Multiple Andreev Reflections in long diffusive
superconductor(S)-normal metal(N)-superconductor junctions with
low-transparency interfaces. Assuming strong thermalization in the weak
link, we calculate the current-voltage dependence
I(V)I(V).
At intermediate temperatures,
\varepsilon_\mathrm{Th}\ll T\ll\DeltaεTh≪T≪Δ,
the current is dominated by noncoherent multiple Andreev reflections and
is obtained analytically. The results are generalized to a ferromagnetic
junction. We find that the exchange field produces a non-trivial
splitting of the subharmonic gap structure. This effect relies on
thermalization and vanishes in SFS junctions with no energy relaxation
in the weak link.
Can sustainable development goals go hand in hand with economic growth? Evidence from Morocco
Authors: Ziky Mustapha , El-Abdellaoui Latifa
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the influence of implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on the economic growth of Morocco. The main purpose is to empirically verify whether the pursuit of sustainable development goals can go hand in hand with economic growth. Employing a robust least squares regression, this paper analyzed carefully chosen data that closely aligns with the essence of the SDG indicators. The findings reveal a positive correlation between financial inclusion and financial stability and the economic growth. Conversely, the poverty reduction exerts a positive effect on economic growth, while the quality of education does not sufficiently account for changes in GDP. Moreover, the estimates indicate a favorable outcome stemming from the enhancement of institutional quality, reflected in improved economic freedoms, as well as the reduction of administrative burdens, both of which positively contribute to economic growth. Furthermore, the results demonstrate a negative impact of renewable energy and a negligible influence of energy efficiency on Morocco’s economic growth. The negative impact of renewable energy can be attributed to a number of sources, including high initial costs, structural changes in the industry and the need to set up infrastructure for production. The positive effects of adopting renewable energies on economic growth can take time to be realized over the very long term.
Creativity development as an imperative for strategic human resource management
Authors: Petrova Iryna
Published: September 2023

The article is devoted to the development of creativity using methods and tools of strategic human resource management. As a result of a number of factors, the need for every organization to create is increasing as the main source of its competitiveness and business success. The author examines different approaches to creativity and gives her own vision of its characteristics with other related concepts. With this in mind, creativity is not just any creative action, but creativity in the field of specific business processes, focused on profit (income) by satisfying certain needs of consumers, both real and potential. Unlike other manifestations of creativity, the article puts forward and substantiates the idea of creativity as a strategic imperative, the achievement of which requires a purposeful and coordinated interaction of all processes in the field of personnel management. To ensure the imperative, it is necessary to develop a human resource management strategy focused on the creative development of personnel and the organization in general. The strategy of managing the creative development of personnel allows you to build a cycle of creativity with a certain sequence of elements, as well as to develop a mechanism for reproducing this cycle. The article analyzes HR technologies that contribute to the development of creativity of human resources. A new look at the problem is the justification of the need for methods of “soft” creativity management by creating a favorable environment for its development.
PRINCIPLES OF DELINQUENT BEHAVIOR CORRECTION PROGRAM CREATION FOR YOUTH DETENTION CENTERS
Authors:   Department of Practical Psychology and Social Work, Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University, Kamianets-Podilskyi, Ukraine, Spytska Liana
Published: September 2023

The necessity of delinquent behavior correction programs is determined by the prevention of wrongdoing and by the correction of behavior if a crime has been committed. The article aims to generalize the conceptual basis and principles of delinquent behavior correction program creation for youth detention center pupils. To achieve the set aims of the research, methods of scientific literature analysis method, interviewing, and mathematical statistics methods were used. Empiric research results on the effectiveness of various delinquent behavior correction program effectiveness, principles for the creation of effective programs, indicators, which can be used to evaluate the disposition of youth for delinquent behavior, and motives behind crimes were analyzed. Aggression level indicators and delinquent behavior disposition amongst pupils of the Kremenchuk youth detention center. Based on acquired data, a scheme of delinquent behavior correction program creation for pupils of various aggression and delinquent behavior disposition levels was developed.
LEGAL RECORDS OF REAL ESTATE IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA - PERSPECTIVES AND NEW TENDENCIES
Authors:   University of Tuzla, Faculty of Law University of Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mutapcic Hamid , Masic Lejla ,   University of Tuzla, Faculty of Law University of Tuzla, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Published: September 2023

The problem of the unsettled land registry state of real estate generated the appearance of new problems, as such but also of some other nature, whereby some of them, and due to the sensitivity of the question, covered by their reach, at the level of the most complex issues in the legal system of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Under the spotlight of such problems, the paper points to possible directions reforms in the field of public real estate records and real estate rights. In order to choose the appropriate recording model, the most significant reform solutions are also presented in the paper, contained in the provisions of the new entity laws on land registers, i.e. of the law on real rights. With the same goal, the paper points out the importance of following rich legal traditions in the matter of establishing rights to real estate. In this respect, special attention is dedicated to the re-updated system of unique real estate records, as a kind of expression of completely different aspirations in this area.
THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN THE SPREAD OF EXTREME TERRORISM IN KOSOVO THE LEGAL AND CRIMINAL VIEW OF THESE CRIMES
Authors:   University ‘’Haxhi Zeka’’, Pec/Pejë, Kosovo, Morina Mensur , Curri Fadil ,   Kosovo Police, Pristina/ Prishtinë, Kosovo, Krasniqi Armand ,   University ‘’Haxhi Zeka’’, Pec/Pejë, Kosovo, Azemi Florent ,   UBT-College Higher Education Institution, Prishtinë, Kosovo
Published: September 2023

Terrorism is not a new concept, but it gained prominence when many extreme occurrences occurred, prompting a more in-depth investigation of the subject. Following the Pan Am flight bombing, for example, terrorism horrified the United States government and the entire world’s population. This research aims to investigate, using secondary data, how social media was used in Kosovo to spread propaganda for radical terrorism and to analyse the provisions of the Kosovo Criminal Code that were broken by this propaganda. The current study relies on desk research with secondary data analysis, namely the content analysis of reports, articles, and news, and interpretive analysis of the Criminal Code of Kosovo. According to the study, propaganda for the spread of extremism and radicalism was used in Kosovo by showing videos on Facebook and YouTube channels, typically with religious messages about the duty to God for helping brothers and sisters in Syria and, to a lesser extent, by showing videos of Kosovo terrorists directly committing terrorist acts in Syria. In addition, the analysis discovers that propaganda led to violations of paragraphs a, b, and c of Article 139 of the Kosovo Criminal Code.
CHALLENGES AND PERSPECTIVES OF LAW AND DIGITALIZATION: CASE STUDY OF CONTRACT LAW
Authors:   University “Haxhi Zeka”, Pec/Peja, Kosovo, Krasniqi Armand , Kalac Kacamakovic Mersiha ,   University “Haxhi Zeka”, Pec/Peja, Kosovo
Published: September 2023

The paper focuses on highlighting the weaknesses and lack of legislation for the electronic notarization of electronic contracts, not only in Kosovo’s business field. The idea of electronic notarization is new in Kosovo and is considered a complex task for the regulation of contractual obligations, which condition the modern activities of e-business. The dynamics and dimensions of e-business development strongly influence the change in the techniques of concluding formal contracts at a distance through information technologies. New legislative practices in the modern world are successfully managing to eliminate or reduce these obstacles, which unintentionally complicate and slow down contractual legal relations between business partners. Notary services are no exception to this trend. Despite the positive trend, the legislation in Kosovo seems to be only in its beginnings, and as such it does not enable and guarantee business partners the electronic notarization of contracts, but unfortunately, there is no debate and no concrete initiatives so far. The first phase, which would better regulate this field, concerns the standardization through the validation of these contracts in the territory of Kosovo through criteria that prove and guarantee the accuracy of the contract.
BUILDING PSYCHOLOGICAL WELLBEING THROUGH STORY READING IN LITERATURE UNDERGRADUATES: AN INTERVENTION OUTCOME
Authors:   The Bhopal School of Social Sciences, Khan Tanuja , Kaur Saluja Vineeta ,   Mangalayatan University, Jabalpur, Basu Shibani ,   The Bhopal School of Social Sciences
Published: September 2023

Psychological Wellbeing in students has recently have lot of attention, especially after the pandemic outburst. Positive psychological intervention was proved as helpful in promoting psychological wellbeing and it is also connected with the story reading intervention; stories which support positive indicators. This study showed the effect of story reading intervention on positive indicators of psychological wellbeing over time for a group of literature undergraduates (n=60). This included 8 stories provided to the intervention group only for comparison with control group. The result showed that story reading led to improvement in students’ positive constructs over a period of eight weeks. The obtained results are discussed in the context of their implications for story reading intervention in higher educational institutions.
Battling the extreme: lessons learned from weather-induced disasters on electricity distribution networks and climate change adaptation strategies
Authors: Gkika Aikaterini V. , Zacharis Efstratios A. , Skikos Dimitrios N. , Lekkas Efthymios L.
Published: September 2023

Electricity infrastructures are critical lifeline systems that are designed to serve with a high degree of reliability the power supply of consumers under normal operating conditions and in case of common failures or expected disturbances. However, many recent weather-induced disasters have brought unprecedented challenges to the electricity networks, underlining that power systems remain unprepared to absorb disruptive large-scale and severe events. Worse still, it is expected that such climate hazards will take place at rising frequency and intensity rates due to climate change. The intensification of meteorological extremes will lead to higher losses and changes in transmission capacity, increasing the frequency and importance of material damage to the aging electric infrastructure, thus resulting in significant disruptions, cascading failures, and unpredictable power outages. This review paper presents real-life examples of different types of extreme weather incidents and their impacts on the distribution network in Greece, a country that is highly vulnerable because of its location, geomorphology, and the existing overhead network assets, highlighting lessons learned related to adaptation options and disaster management best practices. Literature review and benchmarking with other grid operators are also employed to explore resilience-enhancing technical capabilities, weatherproof solutions, and operational strategies on which policy-making initiatives should focus.
Response to COVID-19: building resilience through water and wastewater management in Ghana
Authors: Darteh Bertha , Cofie Olufunke , Nikiema Josiane , Mapedza Everisto , Gebrezgabher Solomie , Okem Andrew Emmanuel
Published: September 2023

This study assessed the effects of COVID-19 on Ghana's WASH system. It focused on low-income households and WASH sector stakeholders using Ayawaso East Municipality as a case study to document lessons from the pandemic's impact on the WASH sector. We used the water and sanitation system approach to understand the effects of COVID-19 mitigation measures on the WASH system. Data were collected through surveys, stakeholder engagements, and document analysis. We found that the government's WASH response increased hygiene practices, solid and liquid waste generation, and water consumption. Sanitation service providers experienced reduced demands for their services, lost clients, and increased operational expenditure. The pandemic's impact is gendered, with women and girls experiencing a greater burden. We argue that responses to the pandemic highlight the need and opportunities for sustainable management of sanitation waste through integrated, circular economy business models, turning waste into valuable resources. Responses to COVID-19 in the WASH system are multisectoral because of its interconnected nature, highlighting the need to integrate sectors beyond water and sanitation. This requires improved institutional structures, policies, investment, and professionalising service providers.
Key perceptions associated with attitudes towards water reuse in a Swedish town
Authors: Gullberg Ylva , Samuelsson Karl , Brandt S. Anders
Published: September 2023

As climate change and urbanization affect current water management systems, new solutions and approaches rooted in public acceptance are needed to ensure future water supply. In this study, we examine public attitudes to reuse of recycled water and associated worldviews, values, and perceptions in a site without historical water issues. A survey of 143 randomly sampled residents in the municipality of the growing Swedish town Knivsta revealed that 81.4% of the respondents had a positive attitude towards using recycled water in general. The results did not indicate any differences in attitudes between those living in and outside the municipality's urban areas. Perceived benefits and risks were found to be significantly related to both attitudes towards using recycled water in general and to the extreme case of using it for drinking purposes. Additionally, trust in public authorities was highly predictive of attitudes towards drinking recycled water. Furthermore, attitudes were found to be related to an environmental worldview and underlying biospheric, altruistic, and hedonic values. This indicates a need to consider the intended purpose as well as engaging with underlying values as part of the technology legitimation process for improving the chances of successful implementation of water recycling technologies.
Análisis del transporte fluvial de pasajeros entre los municipios de Sitionuevo y Sabanagrande: caso de estudio en el rio Magdalena
Authors: Atencio-Molinares Yenily Patricia , Vega-Ospino Maria José , Ospina-Arias Juan Carlos , Zúñiga-Matínez Nelson Fabricio
Published: September 2023

El transporte fluvial de pasajeros entre los municipios Sitionuevo (departamento del Magdalena) y Sabanagrande (departamento del Atlántico), en Colombia, se realiza hace más de cincuenta años por la Cooperativa de Transporte Fluvial y Terrestre de Sitionuevo (Cootransflusi). Un problema fundamental es sostener el punto de equilibrio de pasajeros ante la fuerte competencia del transporte terrestre. El objetivo de la investigación fue analizar el movimiento de pasajeros, caracterizando la situación actual del modelo de transporte, a fin de realizar una propuesta de mejora. La metodología consistió en el análisis de la poca información existente del traslado de personas, específicamente del año 2021, y, a partir de una regresión lineal simple, determinar el pronóstico de pasajeros, comparándolo con los datos de los dos primeros trimestres del año 2022. Para evaluar los niveles de servicio, se realizó una encuesta de tipo cualitativo y de origen analítico a 117 participantes. Se concluyó la viabilidad de la empresa y la necesidad de fortalecer las tareas de marketing y calidad en el servicio. Se encontraron deficiencias en el mantenimiento de las embarcaciones y carencia de manuales de funciones. Con la herramienta DOFA se hicieron propuestas estratégicas con el fin de planear objetivos alcanzables de mejora.
The Tao of Copper Metabolism: From Physiology to Pathology
Authors: Gao Shan , Zhou Mei , Tang Zhenchu
Published: September 2023

:

As a transitional metal, copper plays a crucial role in maintaining the normal
physiological activities of mammals. The intracellular copper concentration is meticulously
regulated to maintain extremely low levels through homeostatic regulation. Excessive
accumulation of free copper in cells can have deleterious effects, as observed in conditions
such as Wilson’s disease. Moreover, data accumulated over the past few decades
have revealed a crucial role of copper imbalance in tumorigenesis, progression and metastasis.
Recently, cuproptosis, also known as copper-induced cell death, has been proposed
as a novel form of cell death. This discovery offers new prospects for treating copperrelated
diseases and provides a promising avenue for developing copper-responsive therapies,
particularly in cancer treatment. We present a comprehensive overview of the Yin–
Yang equilibrium in copper metabolism, particularly emphasising its pathophysiological
alterations and their relevance to copper-related diseases and malignancies.
Synthesis of Carboxylic Acid by Electrochemical Fixation of Carbon Dioxide:
A Review of Electrochemical Carboxylation from Past to Latest
Authors: Senboku Hisanori
Published: September 2023

Electrochemical reduction of organic compounds in the presence of carbon dioxide results in the fixation
of carbon dioxide into the substrates with carbon-carbon bond forming reaction to yield the corresponding carboxylic acids. The reaction is called “electrochemical carboxylation” or “electrocarboxylation”. Various kinds of carboxylic acids have been synthesized using carbon dioxide as a carboxyl group source by electrochemical carboxylation. In this mini-review, several representative kinds of carboxylic acids synthesized from carbon dioxide by
electrochemical carboxylation are briefly summarized/introduced, comparing past and latest.
Crocin Combined with Cisplatin Regulates Proliferation, Apoptosis, and
EMT of Gastric Cancer Cells via the FGFR3/MAPK/ERK Pathway In
vitro and In vivo
Authors: Li Yan , Guo Qi-Jing , Chen Rong , Zhao LingLin , Cui Xianshu , Deng Yingfang , Luo Yu-Shuang
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Cisplatin (DDP)-based chemotherapy remains the main therapeutic strategy
for human gastric cancer (GC). Combination therapy with Chinese medicine monomers and
DDP has been investigated as a means to enhance the anti-tumor effect of DDP while reducing
toxicity.

Material and Methods:

Previous studies have shown that crocin combined with DDP can inhibit
the apoptosis of BG-823 GC cells. However, the mechanism of this combination therapy in inhibiting
GC is not fully unclear. In this study, we measured the IC50 values of crocin combined with
DDP in AGS cells and assessed its effect on cell proliferation using an MTT assay. Furthermore,
we assessed apoptosis, cell migration, and EMT-related protein levels by using flow cytometry,
scratch assay, and Western blotting, respectively. Our results showed that crocin combined with
DDP inhibited the proliferation, induced apoptosis, and inhibited invasion and EMT. Next, we performed
RNA sequence and KEGG enrichment analysis on GC cells treated with Crocin+DDP.

Results::

The results showed that the most significant factor down-regulated by this combination
therapy was Fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) expression and that a differential gene
was enriched in the MAPK/ERK pathway. We further constructed an FGFR3 OE transfection plasmid
to overexpress FGFR3 and evaluate its effects on proliferation, apoptosis, migration, EMT,
and MAPK/ERK pathway proteins in GC cells. We also conducted subcutaneous tumorigenesis experiments
in nude mice to evaluate the effects of crocin and DDP on the progression of GC xenografts
in vivo. Finally, we performed a rescue experiment using the MAPK/ERK pathway inhibitor
PD184352.

Conclusion:

Our results showed that up-regulation of FGFR3 reversed the inhibitory effect of
crocin+DDP on the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway. Still, this effect could be counteracted by
PD184352, which simultaneously regulated the proliferation, apoptosis, and EMT of AGS cells. In
conclusion, crocin, combined with DDP, inhibits proliferation, apoptosis, and EMT of GC through
the FRFR3/MAPK/ERK pathway.
TGF-β Score based on Silico Analysis can Robustly Predict Prognosis and
Immunological Characteristics in Lower-grade Glioma: The Evidence
from Multicenter Studies
Authors: Zhang Weizhong , Yan Zhiyuan , Zhao Feng , He Qinggui , Xu Hongbo
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Nowadays, mounting evidence shows that variations in TGF-β signaling
pathway-related components influence tumor development. Current research has patents describing
the use of anti-TGF-β antibodies and checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of proliferative
diseases. Importantly, TGF-β signaling pathway is significant for lower-grade glioma (LGG) to
evade host immunity. Loss of particular tumor antigens and shutdown of professional antigenpresenting
cell activity may render the anti-tumor response ineffective in LGG patients. However,
the prognostic significance of TGF-β related genes in LGG is still unknown.

Methods:

We collected RNA-seq data from the GTEx database (normal cortical tissues), the Cancer
Genome Atlas database (TCGA-LGG), and the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas database
(CGGA-693 and CGGA-325) for conducting our investigation.

Results:

In addition, previous publications were explored for the 223 regulators of the TGF-β signaling
pathway, and 30 regulators with abnormal expression in TCGA and GTEx database were
identified. In order to identify hub prognostic regulators, least absolute shrinkage and selection
operator (LASSO) regression and multivariate Cox regression analysis were used to screen from
differentially expressed genes (DEGs). On the basis of 11 genes from LASSO-Cox regression
analysis (NEDD8, CHRD, TGFBR1, TP53, BMP2, LRRC32, THBS2, ID1, NOG, TNF, and
SERPINE1), TGF-β score was calculated. Multiple statistical approaches verified the predictive
value of the TGF-β score for the training cohort and two external validation cohorts. Considering
the importance of the TGF-β signaling pathway in immune regulation, we evaluated the prediction
of the TGF-β score for immunological characteristics and the possible application of the immunotherapeutic
response using six algorithms (TIMER, CIBERSORT, QUANTISEQ, MCP-counter,
XCELL and EPIC) and three immunotherapy cohorts (GSE78820, Imvigor-210 and
PRJEB23709). Notably, we compared our risk signature with the signature in ten publications in
the meta-cohort (TCGA-LGG, CGGA-693 and CGGA-325), and the TGF-β score had the best
predictive efficiency (C-index =0.812).

Conclusion:

In conclusion, our findings suggest that TGF-β signaling pathway-related signatures
are prognostic biomarkers in LGG and provide a novel tool for tumor microenvironment (TME)
assessment.
Magnetic Field Modulation Effect of Photoelectric Properties in Dye-sensitized Solar Cells with La0.67(Ca,Ba)0.33MnO3 as Counter Electrodes
Authors: Huo Guanzhong , Lin Wenqing , Wang Ke , Pei Zhe , Du Xuan , Chen Shuiyuan , Su Chao , Ye Qingying , Chen Guilin
Published: September 2023

Background:

In recent years, many semiconductor materials with unique band structures
have been used as Pt counter electrode (CE) substitutes for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), which
makes the photoelectric properties of DSSCs possible to be modulated by electric field, magnetic
field, and light field. In this work, La0.67(Ca Ba)0.33MnO3 (LCBMO) thin film is employed to act as CE
in DSSCs.

Methods:

The experimental results indicate that short-circuit current density and photoelectric conversion
efficiency present better stability when applying an external magnetic field to the DSSCs. Furthermore,
both the exchange current density (J0) and limit diffusion current density (Jlim) are largely
enhanced by an external magnetic field. J0 increases from -0.51 mA·cm-2 to -0.65 mA·cm-2, and Jlim
increases from 0.2 mA·cm-2 to 0.3 mA·cm-2 when applying a magnetic field of 0.25 T.

Results:

The fitting results of the impedance test verify that the magnetic field reduces the value of Rct.

Conclusion:

Both magnetic-field enhancing catalytic activity and CMR effect jointly promote the increase
of photocurrent and finally improve the photovoltaic effect in DSSCs.
Enhancing nonprofit organizational capacity: A comparative analysis of an executive master's program in nonprofit management in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Zidi Mongi Ibrahim , Al-Shallaqi Turky Laili
Published: September 2023

Nonprofit organizations (NPOs), currently numbering 10 million globally, play a pivotal role in addressing societal needs and promoting inclusivity in development and decision-making. This study delves into the realm of capacity building within NPOs through an examination of an executive master's program in nonprofit management at the University of Ha'il, Saudi Arabia. It scrutinizes program components, demographics, and student motivations, contrasting this distinctive Saudi and Arab context with established global experiences. This research underscores the strengths of the nonprofit sector, particularly its contributions to community service and job satisfaction. It suggests the potential expansion of such educational initiatives and advocates for increased female participation. Employing a descriptive research design and qualitative methods, the study offers a comprehensive analysis of program content, faculty, and student experiences. Through targeted interviews and specialized literature reviews, the research critically evaluates the program's design, implementation, and impact, informing future enhancements. Comparative analysis with prior research underscores the significance of the Executive Master's Program in Nonprofit Management in preparing professionals for Saudi Arabia's nonprofit sector. Non-financial motivations emerge as crucial in talent acquisition and retention, with key success factors revealed through program analysis, informing nonprofit management education regionally. The study's findings have profound implications for NPOs, policymakers, and educational institutions in Saudi Arabia. Emphasis is placed on strategies focusing on non-financial incentives and professional development. Moreover, the study serves as a blueprint for designing similar programs in neighboring countries, cultivating a dynamic nonprofit sector and a skilled workforce for positive social transformation. Recommendations include expanding nonprofit management education, promoting women's participation, addressing local challenges, integrating global best practices, and catering to diverse professional needs through scholarships, mentorship, and networking opportunities, fostering inclusivity within the sector.
Influence of Quality & Design on Purchase Intention: Empirical Study of Chinese Brand
Authors: Gupta Om Jee , Singh Anurag
Published: September 2023

This study was undertaken in the context of Xiaomi mobile phones. Extensive literature review was carried out to find the gap and to define the variables essential for the study. Researcher has drawn evidences from earlier researches, which proves the relationship of product design with purchase intention and product quality with purchase intention. On the basis of relationship, literature was reviewed. To undertake the study, data was collected through structured questionnaire from the holy city Varanasi using convenience sampling technique. 200 questionnaires were distributed amongst the respondents, out of those 140 were returned responded. Total 4 questionnaires were found carrying unengaged responses. Hence researcher has used a sample of 136. Researcher has summated the scores of all the respondents for a particular constructs and applied linear regression technique to understand the relationship. On the basis of the findings, researcher has drawn the managerial implications for marketers around the world. At the end, researchers have tried to explain certain possible areas of research. Future areas of research will help the researchers to understand the subject in better way. The result of research concludes that product design and quality significantly and positively influence the purchase intention of consumers for purchasing Xiaomi mobile phones
A Comparative Study of R134a and Propane (R290) as Refrigerants in Heat Pump Water Heaters
Authors: Lee Ann , Cheng Shaokoon
Published: September 2023

In the context of decarbonization efforts, heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) offer an attractive solution over conventional electric resistance type hot water systems due to their 2-3 times higher efficiency. However, the high manufacturing costs and taxes associated with using hydrofluorocarbon (HFC) refrigerant make HPWHs expensive. As a means to tackle this issue, this paper explores the use of propane (R290) as a refrigerant in HPWHs. The study involves an experimental comparison of R290 and R134a, with refrigerant charges optimized for the unit at different ambient temperatures. This current work demonstrates that R290 achieves a 10% improvement in coefficient of performance (COP) at ambient temperatures beyond 20°C. However, at 10°C ambient temperature, the study shows that R290 offers no advantage over R134a, and the COP is lower. These results indicate that the compressor is the largest source of inefficiency, and this aligns well with experimental results on system performance. Additionally, simulation tests using compressors designed for R290 did not predict better COP values than the test unit. Overall, the study suggests that R290 is a viable refrigerant option for HPWHs, but further research is necessary to optimize it’s use.
Redefining Hypotension in Older Adults: Implications for the Prevention of Age Related Cognitive Decline
Authors: McLeod Kenneth J.
Published: September 2023

Chronically low blood pressure in older adults is associated with significantly increased long-term risks of dementia and all-cause mortality risk. Yet low blood pressure is generally not treated until an individual begins to experience the acute symptoms arising from very low cerebral perfusion. However, these acute symptoms, such as dizziness, balance difficulty, syncope, increased fall occurrence, vision impairment, and nausea, begin to occur only at very low blood pressure levels, such that mean arterial pressure levels as low as 65mmHg are often considered to be of limited concern. If the long-term consequences of chronic low blood pressure are to be prevented, an alternative approach to defining what constitutes too low a blood pressure for older adults, i.e. hypotension, will be required. Cognitive aging is a significant health concern for many older adults as it has significant impact on quality of life, and is widely considered a precursor to dementia. Here, we utilize an FDA cleared computer aided cognitive assessment tool to identify the relationship between resting brachial blood pressure in the upright seated position, and cognitive function in a convenience sample of independently living older adult men and women. We observed that resting diastolic blood pressure is significantly and positively correlated with cognitive function in adults over the age of 60 years. Specifically, cognitive performance was found to be significantly impaired for diastolic blood pressure levels below approximately 80 mmHg. Diastolic blood pressures (DBP) below 80 mmHg in older adults have consistently been shown to increase the risk of dementia as well as all-cause mortality, but the influence of below normal DBP on quality of life (QoL) in older adults has not been extensively addressed. The present work shows that adults over age 60, with a DBP below 80 mmHg, are significantly more likely to demonstrate mild to moderate cognitive impairment, and correspondingly, the associated impacts on QoL. These results lead to the suggestion that maintenance of diastolic blood in older adults in the 80-90 mmHg range will not only improve quality of life in this population, but may also provide substantial clinical benefit in terms of preventing, or reversing, age-related cognitive decline.
Ethical Imperatives for Working With Diverse Populations in Digital Research
Authors: Herington Jonathan , Connelly Kay , Illes Judy
Published: September 2023

Digital research methodologies are driving a revolution in health technology but do not yet fully engage diverse and historically underrepresented populations. In this paper, we explore the ethical imperative for such engagement alongside accompanying challenges related to recruitment, appreciation of risk, and confidentiality, among others. We critically analyze existing research ethics frameworks and find that their reliance on individualistic and autonomy-focused models of research ethics does not offer adequate protection in the context of the diversity imperative. To meet the requirements of justice and inclusivity in digital research, methods will benefit from a reorientation toward more participatory practices.
Evaluation of Incremental Validity of Casper in Predicting Program and National Licensure Performance of Undergraduate Nursing Students: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Stevens Kathleen , Moralejo Donna , Crossman Renee
Published: September 2023

Background

Academic success has been the primary criterion for admission to many nursing programs. However, academic success as an admission criterion may have limited predictive value for success in noncognitive skills. Adding situational judgment tests, such as Casper, to admissions procedures may be one strategy to strengthen decisions and address the limited predictive value of academic admission criteria. In 2021, admissions processes were modified to include Casper based on concerns identified with noncognitive skills.

Objective

This study aims to (1) assess the incremental validity of Casper scores in predicting nursing student performance at years 1, 2, 3, and 4 and on the National Council Licensing Examination (NCLEX) performance; and (2) examine faculty members’ perceptions of student performance and influences related to communication, professionalism, empathy, and problem-solving.

Methods

We will use a multistage evaluation mixed methods design with 5 phases. At the end of each year, students will complete questionnaires related to empathy and professionalism and have their performance assessed for communication and problem-solving in psychomotor laboratory sessions. The final phase will assess graduate performance on the NCLEX. Each phase also includes qualitative data collection (ie, focus groups with faculty members). The goal of the focus groups is to help explain the quantitative findings (explanatory phase) as well as inform data collection (eg, focus group questions) in the subsequent phase (exploratory sequence). All students enrolled in the first year of the nursing program in 2021 were asked to participate (n=290). Faculty will be asked to participate in the focus groups at the end of each year of the program. Hierarchical multiple regression will be conducted for each outcome of interest (eg, communication, professionalism, empathy, and problem-solving) to determine the extent to which scores on Casper with admission grades, compared to admission grades alone, predict nursing student performance at years 1-4 of the program and success on the national exam. Thematic analysis of focus group transcripts will be conducted using interpretive description. The quantitative and qualitative data will be integrated after each phase is complete and at the end of the study.

Results

This study was funded in September 2021, and data collection began in March 2022. Year 1 data collection and analysis are complete. Year 2 data collection is complete, and data analysis is in progress.

Conclusions

At the end of the study, we will provide the results of a comprehensive analysis to determine the extent to which the addition of scores on Casper compared to admission grades alone predicts nursing student performance at years 1-4 of the program and on the NCLEX exam.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR1-10.2196/48672
Investigating the Impact of Automation on the Health Care Workforce Through Autonomous Telemedicine in the Cataract Pathway: Protocol for a Multicenter Study
Authors: Khavandi Sarah , Zaghloul Fatema , Higham Aisling , Lim Ernest , de Pennington Nick , Celi Leo Anthony
Published: September 2023

Background

While digital health innovations are increasingly being adopted by health care organizations, implementation is often carried out without considering the impacts on frontline staff who will be using the technology and who will be affected by its introduction. The enthusiasm surrounding the use of artificial intelligence (AI)–enabled digital solutions in health care is tempered by uncertainty around how it will change the working lives and practices of health care professionals. Digital enablement can be viewed as facilitating enhanced effectiveness and efficiency by improving services and automating cognitive labor, yet the implementation of such AI technology comes with challenges related to changes in work practices brought by automation. This research explores staff experiences before and after care pathway automation with an autonomous clinical conversational assistant, Dora (Ufonia Ltd), that is able to automate routine clinical conversations.

Objective

The primary objective is to examine the impact of AI-enabled automation on clinicians, allied health professionals, and administrators who provide or facilitate health care to patients in high-volume, low-complexity care pathways. In the process of transforming care pathways through automation of routine tasks, staff will increasingly “work at the top of their license.” The impact of this fundamental change on the professional identity, well-being, and work practices of the individual is poorly understood at present.

Methods

We will adopt a multiple case study approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection methods, over 2 distinct phases, namely phase A (preimplementation) and phase B (postimplementation).

Results

The analysis is expected to reveal the interrelationship between Dora and those affected by its introduction. This will reveal how tasks and responsibilities have changed or shifted, current tensions and contradictions, ways of working, and challenges, benefits, and opportunities as perceived by those on the frontlines of the health care system. The findings will enable a better understanding of the resistance or susceptibility of different stakeholders within the health care workforce and encourage managerial awareness of differing needs, demands, and uncertainties.

Conclusions

The implementation of AI in the health care sector, as well as the body of research on this topic, remain in their infancy. The project’s key contribution will be to understand the impact of AI-enabled automation on the health care workforce and their work practices.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/49374
Ethical Imperatives for Working With Diverse Populations in Digital Research (Preprint)
Authors: Herington Jonathan , Connelly Kay , Illes Judy
Published: September 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Digital research methodologies are driving a revolution in health technology but do not yet fully engage diverse and historically underrepresented populations. In this paper, we explore the ethical imperative for such engagement alongside accompanying challenges related to recruitment, appreciation of risk, and confidentiality, among others. We critically analyze existing research ethics frameworks and find that their reliance on individualistic and autonomy-focused models of research ethics does not offer adequate protection in the context of the diversity imperative. To meet the requirements of justice and inclusivity in digital research, methods will benefit from a reorientation toward more participatory practices.
Development of a new mobile virtual reality setup to treat patients with chronic pain: A pilot study (Preprint)
Authors: Knobel Samuel E.J. , Oberson Raphael , Räber Jonas , Schütz Narayan , Botros Angela , Gerber Stephan , Nef Tobias , Heydrich Lukas
Published: September 2023

UNSTRUCTURED

Chronic pain is a challenging and difﬁcult to treat condition where traditional treatment methods often lead to frustration in both patients and therapists. The so-called rubber hand illusion, using visuo-tactile stimulation in order to introduce ownership over a virtual body experiment, resulted in a decrease in pain perception if a patient reports ownership over a fake body part. While the rubber hand illusion deals with the upper limbs, it is possible to extend the experiment to the full body during the so-called full-body-illusion. The focus of this work is the development of an easy-to-use mobile, virtual reality setup that can later be applied as a long-term treatment for patients with chronic pain. To induce the full-body illusion we use the so-called cardio-visual illusion, e.g. the patient’s heartbeat is displayed as a flashing silhouette synchronously on a virtual avatar in front of the patient in the virtual environment. The technical feasibility, usability, and acceptance as well as the effect on pain perception and ownership were investigated in this study.
The setup consists of two parts: a head-mounted display (HMD) to show the virtual environment and a device to measure the patient’s heartbeat. For the HMD, a setup with a smartphone (Samsung Galaxy S8+) was chosen for its mobility advantage. The heart rate was measured with smartwatches using photoplethysmography (PPG). Two different positions of the smartwatch were compared against a five-point ECG measurement regarding their accuracy.
Twenty healthy subjects participated in the study. The usability and eventual symptoms of cybersickness as well as ownership over the virtual body were investigated with questionnaires. Pain perception was assessed using state of the art algometric methods (e.g. Algopeg, Somedic algometer).
The usability scores were close to the maximum (i.e. the device is easy to use and well accepted), and those for sickness were close to the minimum (i.e. symptoms negligible). The verification of the heart rate measurement showed a high precision of the PPG measurement device, which was further improved by optimizing the filtering and peak detection algorithms. However, no significant effect for manipulation of body ownership and pain perception were found. We discuss the results and the limitations of our study in the context of the current literature on virtual-reality based interventions for chronic pain.