bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green Synthesis Techniques for Sulphur Nanoparticles: Current Methods and Future Perspectives
Authors: Shukla Ajay Kumar , Mishra Manoj Kumar
Published: December 2024

In recent years, cancer has emerged as a significant public health challenge, prompting
extensive research into the development of innovative anticancer therapies capable of selectively
inducing cell death or halting the proliferation of cancer cells. Harnessing the distinctive characteristics
of nanomaterials, advancements in nanotechnology have played a pivotal role in the progression
of nanomedicine for cancer treatment. Various nanomaterials, such as gold, silver, silica,
and carbon nanoparticles, have been investigated for their potential in drug delivery systems.
Meanwhile, sulfur, with its abundant chemically diverse organic and inorganic compounds exhibiting
a range of biological functions from antioxidant properties to antibacterial and anticancer capabilities,
has garnered significant attention.
Sulphur nanoparticles (SNPs) find widespread application in diverse fields such as lithium sulfur
batteries, sulphur-based photocatalysts, and antimicrobial agents. Despite their extensive utilization
in non-biomedical domains, such as drug delivery and cancer prevention strategies, SNPs
face challenges when employed for biomedical purposes. Concerns include toxicity, limited reactivity,
and the substantial particle size of SNPs, which hinder their effectiveness as drug delivery
carriers. To overcome these obstacles, surface modifications of SNPs are necessary to enhance
their biomedical applicability.
Experimental and Statistical Assessment of the Interaction of Ether and Naphthalene-based Superplasticizers with Concrete
Authors: Anand Sanchit , Mehra Priyansha
Published: December 2024

Background:

The significant concerns surrounding the interaction between cement
and superplasticizers have led to several challenges in the performance of concrete in realworld
applications. This study investigates the interaction between different types of cement
and superplasticizers and presents findings on their compatibility. Additionally, various interactions
between cement and superplasticizers are utilized to assess the strength and durability
properties of concrete.

Methods:

Three distinct types of superplasticizers were utilized: sulfonated naphthalene (SNF),
polycarboxylic ether (PCE), and polymeric ether (PME) based superplasticizers, in combination
with Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC). Multiple
concrete mixes with varying addition times of these superplasticizers were prepared and evaluated
for their fresh and hardened concrete characteristics, including workability, strength, and
sorptivity, among others. Moreover, statistical analyses concerning different combinations of
superplasticizers and cement, as well as varying addition times, were conducted to assess their
respective impacts on concrete qualities.

Results:

The findings of the hypothesis testing indicated a substantial correlation between the
delayed addition time of PPC mixes and variables, such as compressive strength and workability,
with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.95 to 0.98. Conversely, the correlation between
these variables and OPC mixes was not found to be entirely significant (r; 0.85-0.89).

Discussion:

The established relationship indicated an improvement in the properties of fresh
concrete due to enhanced compatibility between different superplasticizers and cement, potentially
aiding in the selection of optimal superplasticizer-cement combinations and addition
times for superplasticizers.

Conclusion:

In the present study, numerous interactions between cement and superplasticizer
are utilized to assess the strength and durability characteristics of the concrete.
A Review on Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Epilepsy
Authors: Ogunsuyi Opeyemi B.
Published: December 2024

Epilepsy is a persistent neurological disorder distinguished by repetitive episodes of seizures that presents notable complexities for patients and healthcare providers. While phar-macotherapy remains fundamental in its management, the emergence of functional foods and nutraceuticals has garnered attention as adjunctive therapeutic options. This review examines the role of functional foods and nutraceuticals in epilepsy management, examining their mech-anisms of action, evidence-based efficacy, and safety profiles. The review delineates various functional foods and nutraceuticals exhibiting promise in epilepsy management, encompassing omega-3 fatty acids, the ketogenic diet, flavonoids, vitamins, and minerals. Mechanically, these substances modulate neuronal excitability, neurotransmitter release, and neuroinflamma-tion, thus exerting anticonvulsant effects. Furthermore, they may augment the efficacy of con-ventional antiepileptic drugs while mitigating their adverse effects. Clinical investigations as-sessing the efficacy of functional foods and nutraceuticals in epilepsy management have yield-ed encouraging findings, albeit necessitating further inquiry to ascertain optimal dosing proto-cols and long-term safety considerations. Additionally, challenges such as bioavailability, formulation standardization, and patient adherence warrant attention to optimize therapeutic outcomes.
Clinical and Ultrasound Features of Constrained Extensor Carpi Ulnaris Tendinopathy; Stenosing Tendovaginitis and Tendinosis in the Patients with Dorsal Ulnar-sided Wrist Pain
Authors: Sato Junko , Ishii Yoshinori , Noguchi Hideo , Takahashi Ikuko
Published: December 2024

Aims:

To investigate the ultrasound and clinical features of constrained Extensor Carpi Ulnaris (ECU) tendinopathy to have a better understanding of ulnar-sided wrist pain.

Background:

The cause of dorsal ulnar-sided wrist pain tends to be vague and unclear due to too many closely adjacent small structures. Constrained ECU tendinopathy has been scarcely reported, and it is unknown how often this disorder is found among the wrists with such pain.

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to compare the patients’ backgrounds between two groups; the wrists diagnosed as constrained ECU tendinopathy by using ultrasonography and the other dorsal ulnar-sided painful wrists.

Methods:

Totally 103 wrists from 103 consecutive patients (45 men and 58 women; age 13-78 years; mean age 43.7 years) who visited our clinic with dorsal ulnar-sided wrist pain were examined by physical test and sonography. We separated them into two groups of wrists with or without constrained ECU tendinopathy and compared patients’ data between them.

Results:

Twenty-six wrists (25%) were diagnosed as constrained ECU tendinopathy mainly located in the distal area than the ulnar osseous groove. All of them were ECU tendovaginitis and 15 wrists were concomitant with ECU tendinosis. The results of the comparison showed the proportion of females was higher, that of patients who have relevant sports activity was lower, and patients’ age was slightly higher in the wrists with constrained ECU tendinopathy (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

Among the wrists with dorsal ulnar-sided pain, constrained ECU tendinopathy occurs more frequently in middle-aged to elderly women and less frequently in sports-related patients, These tendencies are similar to other stenosing synovitis such as de Quervain`s disease.

Others:

For vague dorsal ulnar-sided wrist pain, physician should be aware of these tendencies and the advantage of ultrasonography given that constrained ECU tendinopathy might be frequently encountered more than expected.
Bioceramics: Status in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Kargozar Saeid , Baino Francesco
Published: December 2024

Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine seek biomaterials with potent
regenerative potential in vivo. The bioceramics superfamily represents versatile
inorganic materials with exceptional compatibility with living cells and tissues. They
can be classified into three distinctive groups including almost bioinert (e.g., alumina
and zirconia), bioactive (bioactive glasses (BGs)), and bioresorbable (e.g., calcium
phosphates (CaPs)) ceramics. Regarding their physicochemical and mechanical
properties, bioceramics have been traditionally used for orthopedic and dental
applications; however, they are now being utilized for soft tissue healing and cancer
theranostics due to their tunable chemical composition and characteristics. From a
biological perspective, bioceramics exhibit great opportunities for tissue repair and
regeneration thanks to their capability of improving cell growth and proliferation,
inducing neovascularization, and rendering antibacterial activity. Different
formulations of bioceramics with diverse shapes (fine powder, particles, pastes, blocks,
etc.) and sizes (micro/ nanoparticles) are now available on the market and used in the
clinic. Moreover, bioceramics are routinely mixed into natural and synthetic
biopolymers to extend their applications in tissue engineering and regenerative
medicine approaches. Current research is now focusing on the fabrication of
personalized bioceramic-based scaffolds using three-dimensional (3D) printing
technology in order to support large-volume defect tissue regeneration. It is predicted
that more commercialized products of bioceramics will be available for managing both
hard and soft tissue injuries in the near future, either in bare or in combination with
other biomaterials.
Bioinert Ceramics for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Moghanian Amirhossein , Nasiripour Saba
Published: December 2024

Bioinert ceramics are a form of bioceramics that is characterized based on
how they react biologically in the human body. Bioinert ceramics are often classified as
biologically inert nature or bioinert ceramics that do not elicit a suitable reaction or
interact with nearby living tissues when implanted into a biological system. In other
words, exposing bioinert ceramics to the human environment will not cause any
chemical interactions between the implant and the bone tissue. Bioinert ceramic
materials have been used in the form of medical devices and implants to replace or reestablish the function of degenerated or traumatized organs or tissue of the human body
due to their excellent chemical stability, biocompatibility, mechanical strength,
corrosion restriction behavior, and wear resistance. Materials based on titanium,
alumina, and zirconia are used in bioinert nanoceramics., In a biological environment,
they are bioinert, fracture-tough, and have high mechanical strength. Because of their
corrosion resistance, titanium and titanium-based alloys are widely used in bone tissue
repair.
Advances in Polymer/Ceramic Composites for Bone Tissue Engineering Applications
Authors: Benedini Luciano , Messina Paula
Published: December 2024

Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have accomplished enormous
progress in the last few years. The application of recently designed nano-textured
surface characteristics has shown increased enhancement in bone tissue regeneration.
The development of materials that fulfill the exact requirements of bone tissue is still
under investigation. However, we are approaching this aim. Composite materials are
some of those materials under consideration, and they have emerged as a consequence
of the logical unraveling of bone composition. Principal components of bone tissue are
inorganic and organic matrices and water, in other words, ceramics and polymers.
Accordingly, the design of these materials by combining different types of ceramics
and polymers has opened a wide range of possibilities for bone regeneration treatments.
Not all polymers nor all ceramics can be used for this purpose. Materials must gather
particular properties to be applied in bone tissue engineering. Both types have to be
safe, which means biocompatible and non-toxic. They, additionally, should have
efficient surface behavior, bioactivity, and suitable mechanical properties. Sometimes,
composites could behave as in situ drug delivery systems. Composites are engineering
materials formed by two or more components, each bringing a unique physical
property, and generating synergism. For these reasons, in this work, we will discuss
features of host tissue, concepts such as bioactivity, osteoconductivity, and
osteoinductivity, and the most significant polymers and ceramics used for developing
composed materials. Finally, we focus on examples of composite materials based on
these components applied for bone tissue regeneration.
A novel self-assessment technique of 3D printer accuracy
Authors: KRYFOS Dimitrios
Published: December 2024

Abstract. As Additive Manufacturing Technologies continue to evolve, the need for accuracy in 3D printing methods increases. To evaluate the accuracy of 3D printers and/or the 3D printing process, several benchmark layouts have been proposed in the literature. However, these layouts are typically very complex and do not allow the average 3D printer user to quickly reach a clear conclusion about printer accuracy. This study introduces a novel self-assessment technique for evaluating the accuracy of 3D printers. The proposed benchmark layout consists of only three main 3D-printed components. By leveraging geometric relationships and amplifying deviations through inclined surfaces, this method enables the measurement of the cylindricity of a 3D-printed cylinder without the need for specialized equipment. The layout can be easily printed and used to assess the accuracy of the printer. Measurements from the layout were compared with those obtained from a CMM and a caliper. While this new method may not capture the full three-dimensional form error of a cylinder as accurately as a CMM, it provides a practical measure of the apparent diameter, which is critical for successful assembly operations. This simple, cost-effective technique offers a valuable tool for both amateur and professional users to assess and compare the accuracy of different 3D printing processes and machines.
A study of the micro-geometric errors of tangentially turned surfaces using the design of experiments method
Authors: SZTANKOVICS István
Published: December 2024

Abstract. The increase of machining efficiency is a main goal and a complex task for the production engineering in the industrial environment, while the prescribed surface quality must be maintained. The tangential turning procedure offers a solution while achieving high feeds (thus lowering the machining time), where the roughness of the machined surface can reach its required low value. In this study, several parameters of the roughness profile are analyzed on tangentially machined surfaces. The experimental setups are planned and carried out following the method of Design of Experiments. The results showed that among the key process parameters, the feed of the cutting tool has the most meaningful effect on the surface roughness in tangential turning.
Study of surface roughness variability in end milling of Al7136 alloy using row wise statistics analysis
Authors: TITU Aurel Mihail
Published: December 2024

Abstract. This study aims to investigate the surface roughness (Ra) of machined surfaces using a dataset comprising 150 experiments. By analyzing the influence of key machining parameters—cutting speed, depth of cut, and feed per tooth—on Ra, this research seeks to optimize the machining process for achieving superior surface finishes. The methodological challenge lies in effectively analyzing the dataset, which involves calculating summary statistics, including means, standard errors, and confidence intervals, for all 150 records. The results indicate an average value of surface roughness around 165.68 µm, with a standard error of approximately 164.661 µm, highlighting the significant impact of machining parameters on these values. The conclusions suggest that optimizing machining parameters can lead to improved quality of machined surfaces and, consequently, reduced production costs, emphasizing the need for further research to explore the relationship and propose efficient methods for optimizing the machining process.
The impact of surface topography after milling process on tribological characteristics of 36CrNiMo4 steel
Authors: DZIERWA Andrzej
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Tribological investigations were conducted under a dry contact conditions. Milled steel discs were put in contact with ceramic balls made of SiC. Disc surfaces were characterized by different values of arithmetical mean height of the surface (Sa) from 0.182 to 5.17 µm. Wear volume of the discs, distance required to achieve stable value of friction force as well as coefficient of friction were calculated. The results revealed that the increase in surface roughness led to a reduction in wear loss. Dependency between several surface topography and tribological parameters were also presented.
Effect of deep cryogenic treatment on the mechanical properties of AlSi7Mg casting alloy
Authors: SPASOVA Daniela
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Alloys from the Al-Si system are not hardened by heat treatment and are mainly used for casting lightly stressed parts. If Mg (below 1%) is added to the Al-Si system, the hardening after quenching and aging is possible, as a strengthening secondary phase – Mg2Si – is released. Therefore, the AlSi7Mg alloy is one of the most widely used alloys to produce cast automobile wheels, as well as for thin-walled castings with complex relief. In the present study, the possibilities of extra increasing of the mechanical properties of AlSi7Mg alloy by deep cryogenic treatment were investigated. The tests were carried out on samples of AlSi10Mg alloy previously hardened with T6 heat treatment mode (quenching at 530 ℃ temperature and artificial aging at 170 ºС) and on specimens that have not been hardened by heat treatment.
Peculiarities of the evolution of the microstructure and mechanical properties depending on the correction of the focal length in parts made by laser melting in a powder layer
Authors: ADJAMSKY Serhii
Published: December 2024

Abstract. Defects in finished products are a major factor contributing to the failure of parts produced through laser melting in a powder bed. Consequently, numerous studies have focused on controlling the laser melting process to achieve high-density parts without voids. In industrial applications, an optical system, specifically a three-axis dynamic focusing system, is commonly used to increase the printing area. However, this system requires focal length adjustments, which significantly influence the quality of the finished products, particularly in terms of the repeatability of mechanical properties based on the focal length offset from the center. Research has shown that variations in focal length correction result in deviations in the mechanical properties of the parts. Microstructural analysis revealed that focal length shifts lead to distortion of track boundaries, indicating changes in track crystallization due to the altered curvature of the focal spot.
Fabrication and characterization of TiO₂-ABS composite filaments for 3D printing: Structural analysis and evaluation of antibacterial properties
Authors: TUDOSE Ioan Valentin
Published: December 2024

Abstract. This study focuses on preparing and characterizing acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) polymer composites reinforced with titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles. The aim is to enhance the material's antibacterial and anti-fouling properties for potential use in 3D printing applications. The composites were synthesized by incorporating varying concentrations of TiO₂ (0.5–20wt.%) into the ABS matrix using melt compounding followed by filament extrusion. Morphological and structural properties were evaluated for filaments and printed materials using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis and Raman spectroscopy, respectively. Antibacterial efficacy was tested against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans, demonstrating a slight reduction in bacterial adhesion on the composite surfaces. Furthermore, incorporating TiO₂ can improve UV resistance and provide self-cleaning properties, indicating its potential for applications in medical devices, water purification components, and other high-performance 3D-printed structures.
La Revolución de Blockchain en el comercio internacional: un nuevo paradigma de confianza
Authors: Varón Quimbayo Angel Alberto , Bettin Flórez Alejandro , Ramírez Jiménez William Andrés
Published: December 2024

En este artículo se presenta un análisis sobre los beneficios de la implementación de la tecnología Blockchain como nuevo paradigma de confianza en el comercio nacional e internacional. Durante el desarrollo esta investigación se  utilizó el método de investigación documental, acudiendo a información consignada en revistas indexadas que fueron emitidas por expertos en el área; donde   se determina que Blockchain ofrece grandes ventajas para la industria, entre las cuales se encuentran seguridad e integridad a través de técnicas criptográficas, además de esto; su  arquitectura descentralizada ofrece otros beneficios tales  como garantizar transparencia y fiabilidad en las transacciones que se pueden realizar por medio de contratos inteligentes. Por otro lado, surgieron grandes desventajas a partir de nuevos retos para la industria y el estado referente a temas de normatividad y regulación frente al uso de criptodivisas para mejorar las transacciones comerciales, agilizar negocios y ampliar aún más los acuerdos comerciales, además de esto se reconoce un alto consumo de energía lo que contribuye al aumento del calentamiento global. Con todas estas percepciones se puede concluir que esta tecnología es útil para la industria y la sociedad, constituyéndose como una gran oportunidad para afianzar negocios a nivel nacional e internacional, contribuyendo al desarrollo económico a nivel global y que los obstáculos a futuro se trabajen de tal manera que lleguen a ser viables, tanto legal como ambientalmente.
Efecto del gradiente altitudinal y variables climáticas en el almacenamiento de carbono en un bosque templado de Chihuahua, México
Authors: García-García Samuel Alberto , Alanís-Rodríguez Eduardo , Aguirre Calderón Oscar Alberto , Treviño Garza Eduardo Javier , Cuellar-Rodríguez Luis Gerardo , Collantes-Chávez-Costa Alejandro
Published: December 2024

Los bosques son reservorios de carbono que contribuyen a mitigar los efectos del calentamiento global, sin embargo, dicho almacenamiento puede variar en un gradiente altitudinal. El objetivo del presente estudio fue analizar la relación del gradiente altitudinal y el contenido de carbono almacenado en la biomasa aérea y de carbono orgánico del suelo en un bosque templado del estado de Chihuahua. Se establecieron aleatoriamente 37 sitios de 1000 m2, distribuidos en tres pisos altitudinales (m s.n.m): 1: 2200 - 2600, 2: 2601 - 2800 y 3: 2801 - 3200. En cada piso altitudinal se registraron las especies arbóreas y se midió el diámetro normal ≥ 7.5 cm y la altura total; además, se anidaron en cada sitio dos parcelas de 1 m2 para la colecta de herbáceas y regeneración. Se obtuvieron muestras de suelo a 0 cm - 25 cm y 25 cm - 50 cm de profundidad. El contenido de carbono arbóreo se estimó mediante ecuaciones alométricas y densidad de la madera; para la regeneración y herbáceas se tomó una concentración de carbono de 0.5 a partir de muestras secas; el carbono orgánico del suelo se determinó con el método Walkley and Black. Las especies con mayor carbono acumulado fueron Pseudotsuga menziesii (19.89 Mg ha-1), Quercus sideroxyla (11.61 Mg ha-1) y Abies durangensis (22.24 Mg ha-1) para los pisos 1, 2 y 3 respectivamente. Los pisos altitudinales tuvieron una composición similar y no presentaron diferencias significativas en el contenido de C total. La altitud y precipitación presentaron una correlación positiva con el contenido de carbono.
Impact of adjusted fertility policies on household consumption patterns in China
Authors:   School of Economics, Beijing International Studies University, Beijing, China, Liu Chang , Wang Zixun ,   School of Economics, Beijing International Studies University, Beijing, China, Lu Xiaomeng ,   Survey and Research Center for China Household Finance, Southwestern University of Finance and Economics, Chengdu, China
Published: December 2024

China's fertility policy adjustments have impacted family fertility decisions but have not reversed the declining birth rate, with economic pressures playing a significant role. This study utilized data from the China Household Finance Survey (CHFS) and treated the implementation of China's "two-child" policy as a natural experiment. Using a propensity score matching-difference-in-differences model, the study analyzed data from four periods before and after the policy change to examine how having underage children and additional children affects household consumption behavior. The results indicate that household consumption increases with the number of children, as families with newborns experience higher overall consumption levels. The addition of a second child amplifies this effect, but per capita consumption expenditure decreases as family size grows. Differences in consumption patterns were observed between families with an additional first child and those with a second child. Furthermore, the impact of additional children on household consumption varies significantly depending on the family's education level. The study suggests that the government should design differentiated fertility policies tailored to family characteristics to reduce economic and childcare pressures and create a more supportive environment for family decision-making.
https://editorial.agrosavia.co/index.php/publicaciones/catalog/book/423
Authors: Bacca Acosta Pedro Pablo , Rojas Narváez Brayan Andrés , Salazar Ortiz Diana Katerin , Jaramillo Arenas Diana Lucía , Castro Rincón Edwin , Mancera Lombana Yuberlly Marisol , Obando Enríquez Bayron Giovanny , Meneses Estrada Erika Vanesa , Cadena Pastrana Álvaro Mauricio , Borja Tintinago Jhon James , Rodríguez Valenzuela Jeisson , Montes Vergara José Carlos
Published: December 2024

El Alto Putumayo se destaca por su rica diversidad ambiental y su ubicación estratégica. En esta región se encuentra uno de los humedales altoandinos más importantes del Suroccidente colombiano, que forma parte de una zona prioritaria para la conservación del Piedemonte amazónico. Sin embargo, el sistema ganadero convencional ha provocado una disminución de la biodiversidad y de los servicios ambientales, alterando los ciclos biológicos y el equilibrio del ecosistema. Ante esta problemática, es urgente promover la reconversión ganadera hacia sistemas más sostenibles en la Amazonía. Es necesario reemplazar el uso de gramíneas en monocultivo por sistemas productivos más diversos, como los sistemas silvopastoriles (SSP), que diversifiquen la oferta forrajera, mejoren la calidad de la dieta animal y aseguren la conservación y el reciclaje de nutrientes en los suelos amazónicos. En este sentido, el objetivo de este manual es caracterizar y comprender los aspectos más importantes en la propagación de algunas especies leñosas, relevantes tanto en términos forrajeros como ambientales, que puedan implementarse en los SSP de la región andino-amazónica del valle de Sibundoy, a fin de contribuir al aprovechamiento de la diversidad local para fines productivos y sostenibles.
Patient-Centric Mobile Medical Services Accessed Through Smartphones in the Top 100 Chinese Public Hospitals: Cross-Sectional Survey Study (Preprint)
Authors: Huang Xuan , Wang Ying , Yang Xixian , Jiang Ruo , Liu Yicheng , Wang Hui
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Smartphone-based technology has been used to enhance the delivery of health care services to the public in numerous countries.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate the application of patient-centric mobile medical services accessed through smartphones in the top 100 Chinese public hospitals.

METHODS

Data on 124 tertiary public hospitals, ranked among the top 100 by the China Hospital Science and Technology Evaluation Metrics of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (2019) and China’s Hospital Rankings of the Hospital Management Institute of Fudan University (2019), were collected from the WeChat platform (Tencent Inc), mobile phone apps, and official websites until February 10, 2021.

RESULTS

A total of 124 tertiary public hospitals, all of which were among the top 100 hospitals according to the 2 ranking lists, were selected for this study. Almost all (122/124, 98.39%) of the hospitals offered basic services such as appointment scheduling, registration, and health education. The majority also provided online access to test reports (95/124, 76.61%), consultations (72/124, 58.06%), and prescriptions (61/124, 49.19%). Among the hospitals offering online prescriptions, the majority (54/61, 88.52%) supported home delivery through third-party carriers. Slightly less than half (57/124, 45.97%) used artificial intelligence for medical guidance. Only a small fraction (8/124, 6.45%) managed chronic diseases through online monitoring and supervision by experienced doctors. Approximately half (60/124, 48.39%) of the included hospitals were officially licensed as internet hospitals approved to provide full online services. Hospitals with official internet hospital licenses provided more extensive digital health offerings. A significantly higher proportion of approved hospitals offered online consultations (29.69% vs 88.33%, r=43.741; P<.001), test reports (62.5% vs 91.67%, r=14.703; P<.001), and chronic disease management (1.56% vs 11.67%, r=5.238; P<.05). These officially approved hospitals tended to provide over 6 mobile medical services, mainly in the regions of Shanghai and Guangdong. This geographic distribution aligned with the overall layout of hospitals included in the study.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient-centric mobile medical services offered by the top 100 Chinese public hospitals accessed through smartphones primarily focus on online appointment scheduling, registration, health education, and accessing test reports. The most popular features include online consultations, prescriptions, medication delivery, medical guidance, and early-stage chronic disease management. Approved internet hospitals offer a significantly greater variety of patient-centric mobile medical services compared with unapproved ones.
Effectiveness of an Internet-Based Self-Help Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Program on Medical Students’ Mental Well-Being: Follow-Up Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Wang Difan , Lin Bingyan , Zhang Shuangxi , Xu Wei , Liu Xinying
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Psychological distress is a growing problem among medical students worldwide. This highlights the need for psychological interventions to focus on mental health and improve well-being in this population.

OBJECTIVE

This study developed an internet-based, self-help, acceptance and commitment therapy program (iACT 2.0), aiming to examine its effectiveness in reducing depression, anxiety, stress, psychological inflexibility (PI), and obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCSs) among medical students.

METHODS

A total of 520 Chinese postgraduate medical students were randomly assigned to either an iACT 2.0 intervention group (n=260; six online lessons, once every 5 days) or a control condition (n=260; without intervention). Participants completed questionnaires including the 21-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scale, the revised Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory, and the Multidimensional Psychological Flexibility Inventory at the preintervention (T1), postintervention (T2), and 1-month follow-up time points (T3). No therapist support was provided during the 1-month iACT 2.0 intervention period. Data were collected via an online platform and analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA.

RESULTS

Participants in the intervention group demonstrated a significant decrease in depression, anxiety, stress, PI, and OCSs compared to the control group after the intervention (F=22.9-672.04, all P<.001). Specifically, the intervention group showed significant reductions in all measured outcomes from the preintervention to postintervention time point and at the 1-month follow-up (all P<.001). In contrast, no significant changes were observed in the control group over the same period (all P>.05). The groups did not differ significantly at baseline (all P>.05). Significant differences were noted at both the postintervention and follow-up time points (all P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that the newly developed iACT 2.0 was effective in reducing depression, anxiety, stress, PI, and OCSs. Notably, the positive effects of the intervention persisted at the 1-month follow-up. This program can offer a useful addition to existing mental illness treatment and lead to improvements in clinical and psychotherapy planning while simultaneously reducing the burden on traditional counseling and services.

CLINICALTRIAL

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2300070725; https://tinyurl.com/2h75wx8n
Investigating the Norwegian eHealth Governance Model: Document Study (Preprint)
Authors: Linstad Line Helen , Bjørnå Hilde , Moen Anne , Tunby Kristiansen Truls , Hansen Anne Helen
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Governments and policy makers struggle to achieve a balance between hierarchical steering and horizontal governance in systems characterized by fragmented decision authority and multiple interests. To realize its One Citizen–One Journal eHealth policy vision, the Norwegian government established a special eHealth board of stakeholders to create an inclusive governance model that aligned stakeholders’ interests with the government’s ambitions through coordination and consensus. Little empirical knowledge exists on how countries realize inclusive governance models.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to investigate how the Norwegian inclusive eHealth governance model was developed as a tool to align the government’s policy ambitions with stakeholders’ concerns from January 2012 to December 2022.

METHODS

This document study used a thematic analysis based on a constructivist research approach. We included 16 policy documents and 175 consultation response documents issued between January 2012 and December 2022 related to the Norwegian One Citizen–One Journal policy implementation process. The themes were constructed deductively from a review of governance models and public governance theory and were applied as our analytical lens to each document. The findings were interpreted, analyzed, and synthesized.

RESULTS

The national policy implementation process progressed through 3 phases, with changes in stakeholder inclusion and perceived influence on the decision-making process characterizing transitions from phase to phase. Tension developed between 2 contrasting views regarding top-down government authority and stakeholders’ autonomy. The view of the regional health trusts, municipalities, health care professional organizations, and industry actors contrasted with that of the patient organizations. Governmental insensitivity to participation, lack of transparency, and decreasing trust by stakeholder groups challenged the legitimacy of the inclusive governance model.

CONCLUSIONS

We illustrated that Norway’s One Citizen–One Journal policy trajectory was characterized by a process that unfolded across 3 distinct phases. The process was characterized by 2 contrasting stakeholder perspectives. Finally, it was shaped by diminishing trust in the inclusive governance model. The National eHealth Governance Board faced challenges in establishing legitimacy as a top-down inclusive governance model, primarily attributed to its addressing of participation, transparency, and trust dilemmas. Such dilemmas represent significant obstacles to inclusive governance models and require ongoing governmental vigilance and responsiveness from governmental entities.
Public Perceptions of Very Low Nicotine Content on Twitter: Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Xie Zidian , Liu Xinyi , Lou Xubin , Li Dongmei
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Nicotine is a highly addictive agent in tobacco products. On June 21, 2022, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a plan to propose a rule to establish a maximum nicotine level in cigarettes and other combusted tobacco products.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to understand public perception and discussion of very low nicotine content (VLNC) on Twitter (rebranded as X in July 2023).

METHODS

From December 12, 2021, to January 1, 2023, we collected Twitter data using relevant keywords such as “vln,” “low nicotine,” and “reduced nicotine.” After a series of preprocessing steps (such as removing duplicates, retweets, and commercial tweets), we identified 3270 unique noncommercial tweets related to VLNC. We used an inductive method to assess the public perception and discussion of VLNC on Twitter. To establish a codebook, we randomly selected 300 tweets for hand-coding, including the attitudes (positive, neutral, and negative) toward VLNC (including its proposed rule) and major topics (13 topics). The Cohen κ statistic between the 2 human coders reached over 70%, indicating a substantial interrater agreement. The rest of the tweets were single-coded according to the codebook.

RESULTS

We observed a significant peak in the discussion of VLNC on Twitter within 4 days of the FDA’s announcement of the proposed rule on June 21, 2022. The proportion of tweets with a negative attitude toward VLNC was significantly lower than those with a positive attitude, 24.5% (801/3270) versus 37.09% (1213/3270) with P<.001 from the 2-proportion z test. Among tweets with a positive attitude, the topic “Reduce cigarette consumption or help smoking cessation” was dominant (1097/1213, 90.44%). Among tweets with a negative attitude, the topic “VLNC leads to more smoking” was the most popular topic (227/801, 28.34%), followed by “Similar toxicity of VLNC as a regular cigarette” (223/801, 27.84%), and “VLNC is not a good method for quitting smoking” (211/801, 26.34%).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a more positive attitude toward VLNC than a negative attitude on Twitter, resulting from different opinions about VLNC. Discussions around VLNC mainly focused on whether VLNC could help people quit smoking.
Digital Psychosocial Interventions Tailored for People with Opioid Use Disorder: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Scialanca Madison , Alexander Karen , Tofighi Babak
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Sixty percent of patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) leave treatment early. Psychosocial interventions can enhance treatment retention by addressing behavioral and mental health needs related to early treatment discontinuation, but engagement is key. If well-designed, digital platforms can increase the engagement, reach, and accessibility of psychosocial interventions.

OBJECTIVE

This scoping review aims to document and describe recent digital psychosocial interventions for patients in medication-based OUD (MOUD) treatment.

METHODS

Predefined search terms were used to search Ovid, CINAHL, and PubMed databases for peer-reviewed literature published in the last ten years. The database search resulted in 1381 relevant articles, and 16 of them remained after applying the inclusion criteria. Studies were included if they: 1) evaluated a digital intervention with behavioral, psychosocial, or counseling components for people with OUD; and 2) were published in English in peer-reviewed journals.

RESULTS

The 16 articles reviewed comprised six randomized controlled trials, six pilot studies, two qualitative studies, and two retrospective cohort studies. Smartphone applications (n=8) were the most prevalent intervention delivery method, with other studies using telemedicine (n=3), virtual reality (n=1), telephone calls (n=1), or text messaging (n=3) to deliver psychosocial interventions in either a synchronous (n=7) or asynchronous (n=9) manner. The digital interventions reviewed predominately delivered cognitive behavioral therapy education and increased contact with providers.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants in the studies reviewed indicated a preference for digital, flexible, patient-centered psychosocial interventions that emphasized improved patient-provider relationships. Further studies are needed to establish an evidence base for digital psychosocial intervention efficacy through fully-powered randomized controlled trials to reduce early termination of OUD treatment.
Triggered by the Heart: Effectiveness of Two Brief Just in Time Adaptive Interventions (JITAI) for Reducing Stress and Stabilizing Cardiac Autonomic Function (Preprint)
Authors: Schwerdtfeger Andreas Richard , Tatschl Martin Josef , Rominger Christian
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Transient heart rate variability decreases independent of bodily movement (additional heart rate variability reductions; AddHRVr) potentially reflect moments of psychophysiological vulnerability.

OBJECTIVE

We applied this measure by means of wearables in everyday life to trigger low-threshold 1-min interventions with the aim to stabilize autonomic function and relieve perceived stress and ruminative thoughts.

METHODS

In two pre-registered micro-randomized trials participants underwent a 1-day calibration period to derive individualized trigger settings, and then received AddHRVr-triggered and random prompts throughout the following 3 days asking for perceived stress and rumination. In Study 1, N = 60 participants underwent a slow breathing intervention (0.1 Hz resonance breathing) following each prompt and in Study 2, N = 49 participants were micro-randomized to an external attention and mindful breathing intervention, respectively.

RESULTS

Following interventions in both studies, perceived stress and ruminative thoughts significantly declined irrespective of the kind of prompt and intervention. AddHRVr-triggered prompts resulted in a stronger increase in HRV during the slow-paced breathing and mindful breathing interventions and elevated HRV in a time frame of 10 minutes following the interventions (in contrast to random prompts).

CONCLUSIONS

Both studies show for the very first time that an AddHRVr algorithm can be used to trigger brief just in time interventions by wearables to stabilize autonomic function, thus potentially promoting cardiac health.
Labor Engine or Welfare Trap: New Evidence from the Impact of China's Long-Term Care Insurance Policies on Labor Market Performance
Authors: Xue Xizi , Pei Jinsong
Published: December 2024

The long-term care insurance system is a crucial social service policy for disabled and elderly individuals with dementia in the context of the unfeasible traditional family old-age care model. Through the support of the social insurance model for old-age care security, it effectively addresses and meets the actual needs of long-term care recipients. This has become a significant way to alleviate the burden of disabled and demented elderly individuals, mitigate the impacts of ageing, and create employment opportunities for family caregivers. Using the long-term care insurance pilot policy implemented in Qingdao in 2012 as a quasi-natural experiment, this paper estimates the influence of long-term care insurance on the labor market performance of the pilot city using the synthetic control method of project policy evaluation. Several robustness tests of the labor market effects of long-term care insurance are conducted, utilizing two placebo methods based on time and space, and the ranked test method. The study's findings demonstrate that the implementation of the long-term care insurance policy pilot has a constructive influence on the employment choices of workers in the labor market. Specifically, it encourages participation in the workforce and expands the scale of labor force participation in the pilot cities. Furthermore, the policy's effect strengthens over time and has a marked positive effect on average employee wages, thereby spurring labor supply growth. Through further analysis, it can be determined that the pilot cities have contributed to an average annual growth of around 1 million people in total labor force participation between 2013-2017, surpassing the potential growth rate by approximately 10.5%. Additionally, during this period, the average employee wage displays a linear upward trend with a maximum increase of over 5,000 pounds per capita per year. This suggests a substantial effect on the overall performance of the labor market due to its growth-promoting influence. In addition, the analysis of the heterogeneity of its impact mechanism demonstrates that the long-term care insurance policy aims to enhance the willingness of tertiary industry workers to work and considerably increase the likelihood of their entry into the labor market. It also improves labor income expectations of urban private and self-employed workers, resulting in a virtuous circle of enhanced labor and employment driven by the increased value of labor and the strengthened willingness to participate.
Analysis of Nutrients in Agriculture Soil Sample of Mysuru Region
Authors: M Jamuna
Published: December 2024

Soil is a complex, living, changing and dynamic component of the age old ecosystem. It is subjected to alteration and can be either be degraded or wisely managed. Soil is found to be one of the key elements which sustain life on earth. Physicochemical analysis of soil has been carried out to know the quality of the soil of Mysuru region (C-208). Electrical conductivity of the soil at temperature [250 C] exhibited 490 µs /cm. The pH of the given soil sample exhibited 7.96. The pH ranging between 6.8-8.0 has been recommended optimum for plant growth. The organic carbon present in the soil C-208 is exhibiting 0.65% and organic matter is 0.999%. The total nitrogen determined by alkali permanganate method was found to 519.715 Kg/ha. The concentration of phosphorus in Kg/ha is 240.7. The concentration of potassium determined by flame photometry in the soil sample revealed that 71.136 Kg/ha. The exchangeable calcium and magnesium present in the soil sample determined by complexometric tiration was found to be 195.106 ppm and 100.63 ppm. Above physicochemical study gives the information about nature of soil present and also nutrients present in the soil. So that farmers will arrange the fertilizers and nutrients needed to the soil to increase the yield of crops.
Seroepidemiology and risk factors associated with Leptospira and Chlamydia abortus in goat herds in Guanajuato, Mexico
Authors: Tufiño-Loza Catalina , Gutiérrez-Hernández José Luis , Palomares-Resendiz Erika Gabriela , Musito-Moreno Amairani Stephania , Guzmán-Ojeda Marcia I. , Martínez-Pérez Alan , Díaz-Aparicio Efren
Published: December 2024

A cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted from March 2022 to April 2023 to determine seropositivity for chlamydiosis and leptospirosis, as well as to identify risk factors associated with their transmission in goat herds in the municipality of Juventino Rosas, Guanajuato. A total of 741 samples were collected from 32 herds. For serological diagnosis, the microscopic agglutination test was employed for Leptospira, and an indirect ELISA was used for Chlamydia abortus. Logistic regression analysis was applied to identify risk factors. The study found that 14.1 % and 52.5 % of samples were seropositive for chlamydiosis and leptospirosis, respectively. The primary serovar detected for leptospirosis was the national strain H-89 (Hardjo) at 40.8 %. A significant causal association for leptospirosis was observed (P < 0.0211) in herds with a history of abortions (OR = 8.88), in goats older than 6 years (OR = 6.91), with the loaning of bucks (OR = 5.6), in the buying and selling of animals (OR = 3.54), in herds with more than 60 animals (OR = 3.44), in the presence of rodents (OR = 2.86), and with humidity (OR = 1.79). For chlamydiosis, a significant causal association (P < 0.0456) was observed when pregnant females were not separated (OR = 4.28), when grazing areas were shared (OR = 3.4), and in herds with more than 60 animals (OR = 2.1). Given these findings, it is essential to enhance technical assistance to implement biosafety measures aimed at reducing the occurrence of these diseases.