bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Terahertz Detectors Using Microelectromechanical System Resonators
Authors: Li Chao , Zhang Ya , Hirakawa Kazuhiko
Published: June 2023

The doubly clamped microelectromechanical system (MEMS) beam resonators exhibit extremely high sensitivity to tiny changes in the resonance frequency owing to their high quality (Q-) factors, even at room temperature. Such a sensitive frequency-shift scheme is very attractive for fast and highly sensitive terahertz (THz) detection. The MEMS resonator absorbs THz radiation and induces a temperature rise, leading to a shift in its resonance frequency. This frequency shift is proportional to the amount of THz radiation absorbed by the resonator and can be detected and quantified, thereby allowing the THz radiation to be measured. In this review, we present an overview of the THz bolometer based on the doubly clamped MEMS beam resonators in the aspects of working principle, readout, detection speed, sensitivity, and attempts at improving the performance. This allows one to have a comprehensive view of such a novel THz detector.
Research on Lightweight Microservice Composition Technology in Cloud-Edge Device Scenarios
Authors: Li Hanqi , Liu Xianhui , Zhao Weidong
Published: June 2023

In recent years, cloud-native technology has become popular among Internet companies. Microservice architecture solves the complexity problem for multiple service methods by decomposing a single application so that each service can be independently developed, independently deployed, and independently expanded. At the same time, domestic industrial Internet construction is still in its infancy, and small and medium-sized enterprises still face many problems in the process of digital transformation, such as difficult resource integration, complex control equipment workflow, slow development and deployment process, and shortage of operation and maintenance personnel. The existing traditional workflow architecture is mainly aimed at the cloud scenario, which consumes a lot of resources and cannot be used in resource-limited scenarios at the edge. Moreover, traditional workflow is not efficient enough to transfer data and often needs to rely on various storage mechanisms. In this article, a lightweight and efficient workflow architecture is proposed to optimize the defects of these traditional workflows by combining cloud-edge scene. By orchestrating a lightweight workflow engine with a Kubernetes Operator, the architecture can significantly reduce workflow execution time and unify data flow between cloud microservices and edge devices.
A Suboptimal Optimizing Strategy for Velocity Vector Estimation in Single-Observer Passive Localization
Authors: Gu Shuyi , Luo Zhenghua , Chu Yingjun , Xu Yanghui , Guo Junxiong
Published: June 2023

In a single-observer passive localization system, the velocity and position of the target are estimated simultaneously. However, this can lead to correlated errors and distortion of the estimated value, making independent estimation of the speed and position necessary. In this study, we introduce a novel optimization strategy, suboptimal estimation, for independently estimating the velocity vector in single-observer passive localization. The suboptimal estimation strategy converts the estimation of the velocity vector into a search for the global optimal solution by dynamically weighting multiple optimization criteria from the starting point in the solution space. Simulation verification is conducted using uniform motion and constant acceleration models. The results demonstrate that the proposed method converges faster with higher accuracy and strong robustness.
CICIoT2023: A Real-Time Dataset and Benchmark for Large-Scale Attacks in IoT Environment
Authors: Neto Euclides Carlos Pinto , Dadkhah Sajjad , Ferreira Raphael , Zohourian Alireza , Lu Rongxing , Ghorbani Ali A.
Published: June 2023

Nowadays, the Internet of Things (IoT) concept plays a pivotal role in society and brings new capabilities to different industries. The number of IoT solutions in areas such as transportation and healthcare is increasing and new services are under development. In the last decade, society has experienced a drastic increase in IoT connections. In fact, IoT connections will increase in the next few years across different areas. Conversely, several challenges still need to be faced to enable efficient and secure operations (e.g., interoperability, security, and standards). Furthermore, although efforts have been made to produce datasets composed of attacks against IoT devices, several possible attacks are not considered. Most existing efforts do not consider an extensive network topology with real IoT devices. The main goal of this research is to propose a novel and extensive IoT attack dataset to foster the development of security analytics applications in real IoT operations. To accomplish this, 33 attacks are executed in an IoT topology composed of 105 devices. These attacks are classified into seven categories, namely DDoS, DoS, Recon, Web-based, brute force, spoofing, and Mirai. Finally, all attacks are executed by malicious IoT devices targeting other IoT devices. The dataset is available on the CIC Dataset website.
Ultrasonic Interferometric Procedure for Quantifying the Bone–Implant Interface
Authors: Lützelberger Jan , Arneth Philipp , Franck Alexander , Drese Klaus Stefan
Published: June 2023

The loosening of an artificial joint is a frequent and critical complication in orthopedics and trauma surgery. Due to a lack of accuracy, conventional diagnostic methods such as projection radiography cannot reliably diagnose loosening in its early stages or detect whether it is associated with the formation of a biofilm at the bone–implant interface. In this work, we present a non-invasive ultrasound-based interferometric measurement procedure for quantifying the thickness of the layer between bone and prosthesis as a correlate to loosening. In principle, it also allows for the material characterization of the interface. A well-known analytical model for the superposition of sound waves reflected in a three-layer system was combined with a new method in data processing to be suitable for medical application at the bone–implant interface. By non-linear fitting of the theoretical prediction of the model to the actual shape of the reflected sound waves in the frequency domain, the thickness of the interlayer can be determined and predictions about its physical properties are possible. With respect to determining the layer’s thickness, the presented approach was successfully applied to idealized test systems and a bone–implant system in the range of approx. 200 µm to 2 mm. After further optimization and adaptation, as well as further experimental tests, the procedure offers great potential to significantly improve the diagnosis of prosthesis loosening at an early stage and may also be applicable to detecting the formation of a biofilm.
Study on the Integration Strategy of Online EOL Testing of Pure Electric Vehicle Power Battery
Authors: Wang Huazhang , Qin Hang
Published: June 2023

This paper analyzes the electrical test items of the EOL testing line in automotive manufacturers. On this basis, this paper proposes and designs an integrated and automated testing strategy to deal with the problems of slow testing speed, high dependence on manual labor and low efficiency. This article mainly analyzes the various tests of the two main tests in battery EOL testing: Battery Management System (BMS) testing and electrical testing. We propose an innovative integrated solution based on various testing items, including the reception, transmission, and self-analysis of different UDS protocol messages, a unique automated electrical performance measurement scheme, and a requirement and logic design of an integrated software end based on Python. The experimental results of actual testing show that the implementation of the integrated strategy greatly reduces the complexity of the testing steps, improves the testing efficiency, and reduces errors caused by human operation.
Recent Advances in Sensor Technology for Healthcare and Biomedical Applications (Volume II)
Authors: Zheng Wenfeng , Liu Mingzhe , Liu Chao , Wang Dan , Li Kenan
Published: June 2023

With remarkable progress being witnessed in recent years in the development of sensors, these advances in sensor technology provide unprecedented opportunities for (1) the early diagnosis and prevention of human diseases by detecting critical biomarkers; (2) health assessments by monitoring and analyzing human physiological signals in healthcare and biomedical applications; and (3) the efficient evaluation of human-health-relevant environmental factors by monitoring and measuring environmental determinants [...]
Low-Cost Online Monitoring System for the Etching Process in Fiber Optic Sensors by Computer Vision
Authors: Rodríguez-Rodríguez Wenceslao Eduardo , Puente-Sujo Jesús Abraham , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Adolfo Josué , Matias Ignacio R. , Vargas-Requena David Tomás , García-Garza Luis Antonio
Published: June 2023

The present research exposes a novel methodology to manufacture fiber optic sensors following the etching process by Hydrofluoric Acid deposition through a real-time monitoring diameter measurement by computer vision. This is based on virtual instrumentation developed with the National Instruments® technology and a conventional digital microscope. Here, the system has been tested proving its feasibility by the SMS structure diameter reduction from its original diameter of 125 μ until approximately 42.5 μm. The results obtained have allowed us to demonstrate a stable state behavior of the developed system during the etching process through diameter measurement at three different structure sections. Therefore, this proposal will contribute to the etched fiber optic sensor development that requires reaching an enhanced sensitivity. Finally, to demonstrate the previously mentioned SMS without chemical corrosion, and the etched manufactured SMS, both have been applied as glucose concentration sensors.
Clean and Efficient Recovery of Lithium from Al-Li Alloys via Vacuum Fractional Condensation
Authors: Shi Lei , Peng Zou , Ning Ping , Sun Xin , Li Kai , Zhang Huan , Qu Tao
Published: June 2023

Al-Li alloys are ideal structural materials for the aerospace industry. However, an increasing number of Al-Li alloys have reached the end of their service life and must be recycled. Unfortunately, when vacuum distillation is used to separate Al-Li alloys, metallic lithium is difficult to condense and collect. Therefore, theoretical and experimental research on lithium condensation conditions under vacuum and vacuum distillation and condensation of Al-Li alloy to prepare metallic lithium were carried out. The results show that the optimal condensation temperature range for lithium is between 523 and 560 K. More than 99.5% metallic lithium and more than 99.97% aluminum were obtained from the Al-7.87%wt Li alloy through vacuum distillation condensation. The direct yield of lithium was above 80%. This paper, therefore, provides a new and improved method for the preparation of metallic lithium.
Challenges That Vhavenḓa Child Victims of Sexual Abuse Endure as a Result of Delayed Disclosure
Authors: Bethuel Ramphabana Livhuwani , Frank Rapholo Selelo
Published: June 2023

While child sexual abuse (CSA) has been declared a public health concern worldwide, the continuous problem is the delayed disclosure that affects child victims in many ways. It poses profound health, psychological and social challenges for child victims. This qualitative study explored and described the challenges that Vhavenḓa child victims of CSA endure as a result of delayed disclosure. Five adult survivors of CSA, seven caregivers of survivors of CSA, four social workers, two educators and two traditional leaders were purposefully selected to participate in the study. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and thereafter it was arranged and analysed thematically with the assistance of the NVivo software. Findings reveal that, due to the emotional implications of the abuse, the Vhavenḓa child victims of sexual abuse endure a number of behavioural, social and academic challenges that tremendously affect their well-being, even in their adulthood. It is therefore recommended that vigorous awareness campaigns on CSA within the Vhavenḓa communities be conducted to mitigate the delayed disclosure of sexual abuse.
Rényi Entropy for Past Lifetime Distributions with Application in Inactive Coherent Systems
Authors: Kayid Mohamed , Shrahili Mansour
Published: June 2023

In parallel with the concept of Rényi entropy for residual lifetime distributions, the Rényi entropy of inactivity time of lifetime distributions belonging to asymmetric distributions is a useful measure of independent interest. For a system that turns out to be inactive in time t, the past entropy is considered as an uncertainty measure for the past lifetime distribution. In this study, we consider a coherent system that includes n components and has the property that all the components of the system have failed at time t. To assess the predictability of the coherent system’s lifetime, we use the system’s signature to determine the Rényi entropy of its past lifetime. We study several analytical results, including expressions, bounds, and order properties for this measure.
Research on Risk Evaluation of Hydropower Engineering EPC Project Based on Improved Fuzzy Evidence Reasoning Model
Authors: Li Qian , Guo Ying , Wang Bo , Chen Yingqi , Xie Jiaxiao , Wen Chuanhao
Published: June 2023

As clean renewable energy with strong advantages, hydropower plays an extremely important role in promoting green development and energy allocation patterns. Hydropower project construction is characterized by long duration, large scale, high cost, many participants, and complex construction conditions, and is closely related to the economy, society, and ecological environment, and its construction management mode and construction risk management have become the focus of extensive attention from all walks of life. In this paper, the risk evaluation index system of hydropower engineering EPC project is constructed, and the linear weighted combination method is introduced to determine the comprehensive weights based on the calculation of weights by sequential relationship method and entropy weight method, and the improved fuzzy normal distribution is introduced as the subordinate function distribution of fuzzy evaluation level based on DS evidence theory and fuzzy theory. The risk evaluation model of a hydropower engineering EPC project is also established. Meanwhile, the model was analyzed with hydropower project examples to verify the accuracy and practicality of the model, which can guide hydropower project stakeholders to manage hydropower project risks comprehensively, collaboratively, and efficiently, and provide decision support for hydropower project construction risk management.
Dengue Virus Infection Alters Inter-Endothelial Junctions and Promotes Endothelial–Mesenchymal-Transition-like Changes in Human Microvascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Escudero-Flórez Manuela , Torres-Hoyos David , Miranda-Brand Yaneth , Boudreau Ryan L. , Gallego-Gómez Juan , Vicente-Manzanares Miguel
Published: June 2023

Dengue virus (DENV) is a pathogenic arbovirus that causes human disease. The most severe stage of the disease (severe dengue) is characterized by vascular leakage, hypovolemic shock, and organ failure. Endothelial dysfunction underlies these phenomena, but the causal mechanisms of endothelial dysfunction are poorly characterized. This study investigated the role of c-ABL kinase in DENV-induced endothelial dysfunction. Silencing c-ABL with artificial miRNA or targeting its catalytic activity with imatinib revealed that c-ABL is required for the early steps of DENV infection. DENV-2 infection and conditioned media from DENV-infected cells increased endothelial expression of c-ABL and CRKII phosphorylation, promoted expression of mesenchymal markers, e.g., vimentin and N-cadherin, and decreased the levels of endothelial-specific proteins, e.g., VE-cadherin and ZO-1. These effects were reverted by silencing or inhibiting c-ABL. As part of the acquisition of a mesenchymal phenotype, DENV infection and treatment with conditioned media from DENV-infected cells increased endothelial cell motility in a c-ABL-dependent manner. In conclusion, DENV infection promotes a c-ABL-dependent endothelial phenotypic change that leads to the loss of intercellular junctions and acquisition of motility.
Special Issue “African Swine Fever and Other Swine Viral Diseases in Africa”
Authors: Penrith Mary-Louise , Okoth Edward ,   Livio Heath
Published: June 2023

African swine fever (ASF) has become the swine disease of most global concern since its second escape from Africa in 2007 resulted in its spread to five continents and the consequent devastation of industrial to subsistence pig farming [...]
Towards a More Critical Public Health Understanding of Vaccine Hesitancy: Key Insights from a Decade of Research
Authors: Cooper Sara , Wiysonge Charles S.
Published: June 2023

Vaccine hesitancy has gained renewed attention as an important public health concern worldwide. Against this backdrop, over the last decade, we have conducted various qualitative, social science studies with the broad shared aim of better understanding this complex phenomenon. This has included various Cochrane systematic reviews of qualitative research globally, systematic reviews of qualitative research in Africa, and primary research studies in South Africa. These studies have also explored vaccine hesitancy for various vaccines, including routine childhood vaccination, HPV vaccination and other routine vaccinations for adolescents, and, most recently, COVID-19 vaccination. In this reflective and critical commentary piece we reflect on seven key overarching insights we feel we have gained about this complex phenomenon from the varying studies we have conducted over the past decade. These insights comprise the following: (1) the relationship between vaccine knowledge and hesitancy is complex and may operate in multiple directions; (2) vaccine hesitancy is driven by multiple socio-political forces; (3) vaccine hesitancy may be many things, rather than a single phenomenon; (4) vaccine hesitancy may be an ongoing ‘process’, rather than a fixed ‘stance’; (5) vaccine hesitancy may sometimes be about a ‘striving’, rather than a ‘resisting’; (6) ‘distrust’ as a driver of vaccine hesitancy needs to be better contextualized and disaggregated; and (7) the ‘demand-side’ versus ‘supply/access-side’ distinction of the drivers of suboptimal vaccination may be misleading and unhelpful. In unpacking these insights, we problematize some of the common assumptions within the vaccine hesitancy literature and flag topics that we think could benefit from further scrutiny and debate. Our hope is that this can provide a platform for further engagement on these issues and ultimately contribute towards fostering a more critical public health understanding of vaccine hesitancy.
Anxiety, Optimism, and COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among Students in a University in Southern Thailand during the 2021 Academic Year
Authors: Kaewkrajang Patcharawan , Jatchavala Chonnakarn , Sangsuwan Tharntip
Published: June 2023

This study examined the prevalence of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and its associated factors, including anxiety and optimism, surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic among Thai university students. An online observational cross-sectional study was conducted between November and December 2021. Descriptive analyses and logistic regression were performed using R. In total, 409 university students participated in the study. Most reported high anxiety levels (69.4%), while more than half also expressed high levels of optimism associated with the COVID-19 pandemic (51.1%). Only 4.4% were unvaccinated, among whom 50% were hesitant to receive vaccination (2.2%). Per statistical analysis, those who perceived the available vaccines as low safety were significantly associated with a higher risk of vaccine hesitancy (p = 0.03). In contrast, those who reported that they would likely to receive the COVID-19 vaccine if recommended to by their doctors or pharmacists were significantly associated with lower vaccine hesitancy (p = 0.048). However, both anxiety and optimism regarding the COVID-19 pandemic were not associated with vaccine hesitancy. Thus, healthcare workers play an important role in COVID-19 vaccination counseling to prevent transmission. Health education during the pandemic should focus on COVID-19 infection as well as COVID-19 vaccines, including their safety and their adverse effects.
COVID-19 and Dentistry: Enhancing Knowledge and Attitudes towards Infections, Immunity, and Vaccination
Authors: Pawar Ajinkya M , Isaqali Karobari Mohmed
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted every part of human life, including healthcare systems, and presented societies with hitherto unheard-of concerns [...]
Design of hotel activities on the basis of foreign experience of the hotel Atlantis theРalm of UAE
Authors:   Bauman Moscow State Technical University, Moscow, Dolgova I. V. , Bely V. L. ,   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Smakhtina M. D. ,   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow
Published: June 2023

The article presents the stages of the sequence of creation of hotel enterprises. The experience of designing the Atlantis the Palm hotel is proposed to be taken as a basis, and at the same time, based on the analysis of the economic activities of the named hotel, recommendations are proposed for improving the activities of the hotel enterprise to improve the quality of hotel services. The article has practical application for the hotel enterprises of the Russian Federation wishing to become participants in the hospitality industry.
Hotel business and problems of expanding the range of services provided
Authors:   Graduate School of Management Russian Economic University. G. V. Plekhanov, Rybkina E. V.
Published: June 2023

Hotel services have become more accessible to the mass consumer due to democratization processes. The main principle of the work of hotels today is the complete satisfaction of the needs of customers; and the main trend is the globalization and concentration of the hotel business. The current state of the hotel industry also characterizes a number of problems, including the development and implementation of management based on digitalization, focusing on innovative development paths and providing the hotel industry with competitive advantages.
The alterations of hotel complexes’ franchise system under the conditions of the inner tourism improvement
Authors:   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics Moscow, Nikolaenko E. A.
Published: June 2023

The franchising is gaining popularity now in the majority of the activity domains, the hotel business is not the exception. The following facts and assumptions are taken into consideration in order to understand the relevance of the franchise system in Russia along with geopolitical and economic circumstances. The notion of the franchise is mentioned, its negative and positive aspects are illustrated.The case about the Radisson-SaS appearance in Sochi was given as an example of the foreign franchise management practices implementation and the consequences of this measure to the hotel practice in Russia. Subsequently, the statistics about the level of hotels’ attractiveness in the period of 2019 and 2022 were given. The perspectives of development in tourism and hotel business are descried in the territory of EAEU. Afterwards, the franchise options of various price segments and the most improved of them are mentioned. Special attention is paid to the hotel complexes which have already made the breakthrough in this sphere. According to such a rather successful experience in the hotel business, several measures in social, ecological and image politics of companies were approved. In conclusion, the negative aspect of the hotel system in Russia that is connected with the low adaptation speed to the geopolitical conditions is highlighted.
Evidence-based medicine
Authors:   City Maternity Hospital No. 1, Khimki, Panchenko S. B.
Published: June 2023

Evidence-based medicine is a term that has firmly entered the lexicon of doctors around the world. The historical and methodological foundations for the introduction of an evidence-based approach into modern medical practice and healthcare are presented in the article. The principles of clinical epidemiology and the concepts of evidence, controlled clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analysis are described. The information about the main schools of evidence-based medicine and the activities of centers of evidence-based practice is presented. The leading role of doctors in making clinical decisions within the scope of an evidence-based approach, the correlation of clinical experience and traditions with evidence and a conscious informed choice of patients are noted. The positions of WHO experts on the observance of an evidence-based approach as a component of reforming healthcare systems in the direction of the priority development of primary health care and focus on people's values are highlighted.
HIV infection in the practice of a family doctor and the possibility of AIDS therapy
Authors:   Volgograd State Medical University, Skvortsov V. V. , Tinaeva R. Sh. ,   Volgograd State Medical University
Published: June 2023

AIDS, or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, was originally defined by the Centers for Disease Control as "the presence of a reliably diagnosable disease in which there is at least a mild defect in cell-mediated immunity". The modern definition includes the presence of a group of various disorders caused by opportunistic flora, diagnosed presumably or definitively in individuals with laboratory-proven HIV infection in the absence of other reliable causes of immunodeficiency. From a practical standpoint, the clinician should consider HIV infection as a spectrum of disorders ranging from primary infection, with or without acute HIV syndrome, and asymptomatic infection to overt disease. This article is devoted to the issues of classification, clinical symptoms, and approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of secondary immunodeficiency disorders on the example of AIDS caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
A clinical case of fibrous dysplasia
Authors:   City Polyclinic No. 37, St. Petersburg, Kochieva Marina Leonidovna
Published: June 2023

Fibrous dysplasia is a disease characterized by a developmental disorder (dysplasia) of the skeleton, in which healthy bone is replaced by fibrous tissue with elements of dysplastic bone. There are monostotic (about 85 % of cases), monomelic (several adjacent bones of one limb, shoulder or pelvic girdle are af fected), and polyostotic (about 5 % of cases) forms. It is based on a slow and distor ted ossification of the embryonic car tilage.
Memo to a patient with bronchial asthma
Authors:   Regional Clinical Hospital, Khabarovsk, Gulyabin K. R.
Published: June 2023

Bronchial asthma (BA) is a heterogeneous disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the airways and the presence of respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, dyspnea, chest congestion, and cough that vary in time and intensity and manifest themselves with variable airway obstruction.
Philosophy of meaning and conceptualization
Authors:   Independent Researcher, Lapina T.S.
Published: June 2023

Philosophy reveals the foundations of conceptualization as a generic form of spirituality, and philosophy itself is semantic. As an active state of the human spirit, conceptualization leads to development of semiotically shaped meanings, that is, the reduction of information to human and value dimensions, which is often expressed figuratively. The genesis of meanings has two opposite to each other beginnings — down-to-earth and sublime: a review of acquired experience and attribution to the sphere of due and ideas. One of the objects of philosophical reflection should be a phenomenon that can be called a semantic conversion of human existence, that is, virtual reconstruction in a semantic evaluative and instructive form of social, generational and personal and individual events, virtual humanization of the universe. Both the profitable and flawed sides of social evolution are recorded in meanings, characters are depicted in a semantic way, from which subjects learn lessons. Individuals live their own lives and virtually meaningfully can live the lives of other personalities. The human world is enriched with typical semantic realities. The main meaningful points of the philosophy of meaning are given at the end of the article.
The conflict of the priesthood with the Bolsheviks during the Civil War: a view from the state
Authors:   Department of Philosophy, Theology and Religious Studies ANO VO “Slavic-Greek-Latin Academy”, Panishchev A.L.
Published: June 2023

The article is devoted to the conflict between the Soviet government and the Russian Orthodox Church, which occurred in the 1920s. This conflict is not completely cured in modern Russia, and for this an objective, honest scientific analysis of these events is necessary. The article considers the Church as a socio-political institution, but in no way questions its God-human nature. In other words, the author critically analyzes the actions of the hierarchy, but not the very essence of the Church. The article explains some of the reasons for this conflict, and in the context of their origins from some priests themselves. The conflict must be explained not only from the position of the Church as a socio-political institution, but also from the position of state power, which was established in the difficult conditions of civil war, separatism, aggressive nationalism and the intervention of the leading capitalist powers.
Extension Resource Use Among Washington State Wine Makers and Wine Grape Growers: A Case for Focusing on Relevance
Authors: Szymanski Erika
Published: June 2023

Interview and surveys were used to understand Extension relevance in the context of overall information resource use among Washington State wine makers and wine grape growers. Relevance, rather than adoption, is suggested as a frame for assessing Extension communication with these practitioners. Results suggest that Extension resources are used and valued, but not always perceived as relevant. Moreover, practitioners' resource use preferences were diverse but tended to fall into three categories: science driven, value driven, and utility driven. Appreciating differences in how these groups perceive Extension resources as relevant may be useful in framing more efficient and effective communication with them.
Wet Grain Delivery Advice: A Previously Impossible Extension Challenge Solved Through App Technology
Authors: Dvorak Joseph , McNeill Sam , Hardy Clint
Published: June 2023

The delivery of wet grain during harvest is a complex and constantly changing problem about which Extension professionals have been unable to offer more than general advice. By capitalizing on important characteristics of mobile devices, a new app enables producers to fully benefit from detailed information universities have generated on grain drying and costs associated with delivery of grain to different locales. Development of such an app demonstrates the power of apps and mobile devices in allowing Extension to deliver previously unattainable services to its clientele.
Promoting Nutrition and Wellness Statewide Through an Electronic Newsletter
Authors: Bahl Morgan , Francis Sarah
Published: June 2023

The Words on Wellness (WOW) newsletter was designed as an electronic newsletter intended to provide research-based nutrition and wellness information to Iowans. An evaluation was conducted to assess to what extent the newsletter is being used by its readership and whether readers are making lifestyle changes as a result. Those who completed the online survey (n = 154) report making lifestyle changes and finding the information to be current, understandable, and relevant to their lives. These results indicate that the use of indirect nutrition and wellness educational materials (i.e., a newsletter) is effective in promoting research-based information that results in self-reported behavior change.
Key Resources for Creating Online Nutrition Education for Those Participating in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education
Authors: Stosich Marie , LeBlanc Heidi , Kudin Janette , Christofferson Debra
Published: June 2023

Internet-based nutrition education is becoming an important tool in serving the rural, low-income community, yet the task of creating such programming can be daunting. The authors describe the key resources used in developing an Internet-based nutrition education program for those participating in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education. Extension program providers wanting to create an online program may benefit from becoming familiar with the resources and ideas described in this article.
Turist Rehberliği Eğitiminde Yaşanan Sorunlar Üzerine Bir Değerlendirme
Authors: PELİT Elbeyi , ÇOBAN Eda , TOMAKİN Buse Nur
Published: June 2023

Amaç ve Önem: Bu araştırmanın amacı, turist rehberliği eğitiminde (ön lisans, lisans ve lisansüstü) yaşanan mevcut sorun alanlarının detaylı olarak değerlendirilmesidir. Konu ile ilgili alanyazın incelendiğinde, turist rehberliği eğitimi ile ilgili çok sayıda çalışmanın yapıldığı ancak, turist rehberliği eğitiminde yaşanan sorunların ele alındığı sınırlı sayıda çalışmanın olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Ayrıca, turist rehberliği eğitiminde yaşanan sorunları ön lisans, lisans ve lisansüstü düzeyde kapsamlı bir şekilde ele alan herhangi bir çalışmaya rastlanmamıştır. Dolayısıyla, turist rehberliği eğitiminde meydana gelen sorunların ve söz konusu bu sorunlara yol açan alanların/etkenlerin tespit edilmesi ve bu sorunlara yönelik çözüm önerilerinin geliştirilmesi ilgili alanyazına ve turist rehberliği eğitiminin ve dolayısı ile mesleğin gelişimine katkı sağlaması bakımından önem taşımaktadır.

Yöntem: Turist rehberliği eğitiminde yaşanan sorunları konu alan bu araştırma, literatür taraması tekniği ve araştırmacıların konu ile ilgili gözlem ve deneyimlerine dayanarak gerçekleştirilmiştir. Bu kapsamda, turist rehberliği eğitimine ilişkin literatür taranmış ve turist rehberliği eğitiminde yaşanan sorunlar ayrıntılı bir şekilde açıklanmıştır.

Bulgular: Yapılan literatür taraması sonucunda, turist rehberliği eğitiminde yaşanan sorunların; eğitim düzeyleri arasındaki farklılıklar, müfredat içerikleri/farklılıkları, öğretim elemanlarının alanları, yabancı dil eğitimi, staj uygulaması, uygulama gezisi, mevzuattan kaynaklanan sorunlar ve diğer sorunlar olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Söz konusu bu sorun alanlarından özellikle eğitim düzeyleri arasındaki farklılıklar, müfredat içerikleri/farklılıkları, yabancı dil eğitimi ve staj uygulaması sorunları turist rehberliği eğitiminde öne çıkan sorunlar olarak belirlenmiştir.

Özgünlük/Bilimsel Katkı: Turist rehberliği eğitiminde yaşanan sorunların tespit edilmesini amaçlayan bu araştırma, turist rehberliği eğitimi literatürüne katkı sağlaması açısından önemlidir. Ayrıca, araştırma kapsamında sunulan önerilerin; turist rehberliği eğitimi veren kurumlara, turist rehberliği öğrencilerine, turist rehberlerine, akademisyenlere, turizm sektöründe konuyla ilgili plan/politika geliştirmekle yükümlü olan kurum/kuruluşlara ve ilgili sektöre fayda sağlayacağı düşünülmektedir.
ANALISIS IMPLEMENTASI AKUNTANSI DIGITAL GUNA PENCATATAN KEUANGAN PADA UMKM
Authors: Krisdiyawati Krisdiyawati , Maulidah Hikmatul
Published: June 2023

Digitalization of accounting for MSME actors began to use through online applications for financial records. Bookkeeping is easy, and efficient for MSME actors online, introduced the Android-based AKPHB Cash Book Application for accounting records in business financial management. This study aims to analyze the obstacles experienced by MSMEs in applying AKPHB Cash Book financial applications for MSME financial records. The analysis method used is qualitative descriptive by providing reviews through the distribution of questionnaires to research respondents, questions and interviews. The population is MSMEs in the South Tegal area of Tegal City. The accidental sampling technique by chance and deemed suitable has used the AKPHB Cash Book as a data source obtained by 20 respondents. The application of AKPHB Cash Book financial application to MSME actors is still ongoing. It still provides simulation and education. This application has sufficient features in recording accounting for MSME entities, but has not presented financial statements by applicable standards, still applies the basic assumption of cash flow. There are obstacles experienced by MSMEs in this application because it is not attractive. Therefore, the download of this application is still not smooth for the security system of each smartphone. Then, the mindset of MSMEs must be changed about the importance of accounting knowledge in preparing financial statements.
The Impact of Prescribing Monitoring Policy on Drug Use and Expenditures in China: A Multi-center Interrupted Time Series Study
Authors: Nie Xiaoyan , Wang Ruilin , Liang Guangkai , Zhang Xinyi , Tang Ningjia , Cai Yuchun , Han Congxiao , Zhao Yuxuan , Jia Tong , Zhang Fang , Han Sheng , Guan Xiaodong , Shi Luwen , Lu Christine Y.
Published: June 2023

Background: A prescribing monitoring policy (PMP) was implemented in November 2015 in Anhui province, China, the first province to pilot this policy to manage the use and costs of select drugs based on their large prescription volumes and/ or costs in hospitals. This study evaluated the impact of PMP on the use and expenditures of different drugs in three tertiary hospitals in Anhui. Methods: We obtained monthly drug use and expenditures data from three tertiary hospitals in Anhui (November 2014 through September 2017). An interrupted time series (ITS) design was used to estimate changes in defined daily doses (DDDs per month) and drug expenditures (dollars per month) of policy-targeted and non-targeted drugs after PMP implementation. Drugs were grouped based on whether they were recommended (recommended drugs) by any clinical guidelines or not (non-recommended drugs), or if they were potentially over-used (proton pump inhibitors, PPIs). Results: After PMP, DDDs and costs of the targeted PPIs (omeprazole) declined while use of non-targeted PPIs increased correspondingly with overall sustained declines in total PPIs. The policy impact on recommended drugs varied based on whether the targeted drugs have appropriate alternatives. The DDDs and costs of recommended drugs that have readily accessible appropriate alternatives (atorvastatin) declined, which offset increases in its alternative non-target drugs (rosuvastatin), while there was no significant change in those recommended drugs that did not have appropriate alternative drugs (clopidogrel and ticagrelor). Finally, the DDDs and costs of non-recommended drugs decreased significantly. Conclusion: PMP policy impact was not the same across different drug groups. PMP did help contain the use and costs of potentially over-used drugs and non-recommended drugs. PMP did not seem to reduce the use of first-line therapeutic drugs recommended by clinical treatment guidelines, especially those lacking alternatives; such drugs are unlikely appropriate candidates for PMP.
Challenges in Assessment of Health Systems Decentralization: The Role of Path Dependence and Choice of Indicators Comment on "The Effects of Health Sector Fiscal Decentralisation on Availability, Accessibility, and Utilisation of Healthcare Services: A Panel Data Analysis"
Authors: Sarti Flavia Mori
Published: June 2023

Optimal resource allocation within national health systems represents the ultimate challenge in diverse countries worldwide. Major part of the literature points that health systems decentralization potentially address the challenge. The present commentary focuses on the debate referring to effects of health systems decentralization, based on the evidence of the study of Arianna Rotulo and colleagues. Studies on the subject emphasize the role of path dependence and the influence of choice of indicators for measurement of effects in the assessment of health systems decentralization. Acknowledging the complexity of the phenomena, the results of the study of Rotulo et al on health system decentralization in Italy are highlighted through the analysis of recent evidence from the literature. The present commentary shows that there are diverse indicators adopted in the literature on the subject, pointing to mixed results, depending on country characteristics and selection of indicators in the analysis. The synthesis of indicators gathered in recent studies also indicate that health system indicators are sensitive to path dependence, thus, requiring additional attention to assumptions of studies on health systems decentralization. Thus, studies should consider the influence of path dependence on organizational practices and institutional structures involved in decentralization processes, in addition to acknowledging that assessments on decentralization vary substantially according to indicators adopted in the analysis, and their links with previous decisions within health systems.
Characteristics of Medical Deserts and Approaches to Mitigate Their Health Workforce Issues: A Scoping Review of Empirical Studies in Western Countries
Authors: Flinterman Linda E. , González-González Ana I. , Seils Laura , Bes Julia , Ballester Marta , Bañeres Joaquim , Dan Sorin , Domagala Alicja , Dubas-Jakóbczyk Katarzyna , Likic Robert , Kroezen Marieke , Batenburg Ronald
Published: June 2023

Background: Medical deserts are considered a problematic issue for many Western countries which try to employ multitude of policies and initiatives to achieve a better distribution of their health workforce (HWF). The aim of this study was to systematically map research and provide an overview of definitions, characteristics, contributing factors and approaches to mitigate medical deserts within the European Union (EU)-funded project "ROUTE-HWF" (a Roadmap OUT of mEdical deserts into supportive Health WorkForce initiatives and policies). Methods: We performed a scoping review to identify knowledge clusters/research gaps in the field of medical deserts focusing on HWF issues. Six databases were searched till June 2021. Studies reporting primary research from Western countries on definitions, characteristics, contributing factors, and approaches were included. Two independent reviewers assessed studies for eligibility, extracted data and clustered studies according to the four defined outcomes. Results: Two-hundred and forty studies were included (n=116, 48% Australia/New Zealand; n=105, 44% North America; n=20, 8% Europe). All used observational designs except for five quasi-experimental studies. Studies provided definitions (n=171, 71%), characteristics (n=95, 40%), contributing factors (n=112, 47%), and approaches to mitigate medical deserts (n=87, 36%). Most medical deserts were defined by the density of the population in an area. Contributing factors to HWF issues in medical deserts consisted in work-related (n=55, 23%) and lifestyle-related factors (n=33, 14%) of the HWF as well as sociodemographic characteristics (n=79, 33%). Approaches to mitigate them focused on training adapted to the scope of rural practice (n=67, 28%), HWF distribution (n=3, 1%), support/infrastructure (n=8, 3%) and innovative models of care (n=7, 3%). Conclusion: Our study provides the first scoping review that presents and categorizes definitions, characteristics, contributing factors, and approaches to mitigate HWF issues in medical deserts. We identified gaps such as the scarcity of longitudinal studies to investigate the impact of factors contributing to medical deserts, and interventional studies to evaluate the effectiveness of approaches to mitigate HWF issues.
Why Is It So Hard to Evaluate Knowledge Exchange? Comment on "Sustaining Knowledge Translation Practices: A Critical Interpretive Synthesis"
Authors: Oliver Kathryn
Published: June 2023

Despite a growth in knowledge translation (KT) or exchange activities, and a smaller growth in their evaluations, it remains challenging to identify evidence of efficacy. This could be due to well-documented political and logistical difficulties involved in evaluating knowledge exchange interventions. By bringing in theory from science and technology studies (STS), Borst et al1 offer a new way of thinking about this problem. Most KT evaluations draw on health research traditions; centralising comparability, efficacy, and so on. Borst et al propose focusing on the work it takes to move knowledge over boundaries between these communities, seeing relationships as interactions, not just conduits for evidence. They show how ‘context’ can be understood as a mutual creation, not a static environment; and that institutions shape behaviours, rather than merely being sites or platforms for evidence mobilisation. Seeing KT as a creative, active practice opens new ways to design and evaluate KT mechanisms.
The Importance of Mapping Determinants, Attitudes and Beliefs of Vaccine Hesitancy in the Great Challenge of Compulsory Childhood Vaccination Comment on "Convergence on Coercion: Functional and Political Pressures as Drivers of Global Childhood Vaccine Mandates"
Authors: Guaraldi Federica , Montalti Marco , Gori Davide
Published: June 2023

Vaccine hesitancy (VH) has risen significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, becoming a major global health concern. VH is characterized by the delay or refusal of vaccination despite its availability. Various frameworks have been developed to understand the complex factors influencing VH, with attitudes, beliefs, and external influences being the most significant. The surge in VH has reignited the debate on the best approach to address it: persuasive/ educational or coercive. Attwell and Hannah studied the political and social reasons behind the adoption of mandatory vaccination in four jurisdictions (Italy, France, Australia, and California) due to declining vaccine coverage below the safety threshold. However, these methods may foster parental disbeliefs and opposition to vaccination campaigns. To combat VH, it is crucial to systematically assess its determinants within specific contexts and population groups. Increasing awareness about vaccination benefits, engaging with social media, and employing tailored strategies can foster spontaneous adherence to vaccination programs, eliminating the need for coercive measures.
If Providing Best Care Means Being at the Cutting Edge of Research, Should It Be Implemented System-wide? Comment on "‘We’re Not Providing the Best Care If We Are Not on the Cutting Edge of Research’: A Research Impact Evaluation at a Regional Australian Hospital and Health Service"
Authors: Hanney Stephen R.
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic intensified debates about the desirability of integrating health research systems into healthcare systems. An excellent evaluation undertaken prior to the pandemic examined a purposeful strategy to improve healthcare through an expansion in research capacity in the Townsville Hospital and Health Service (THHS), a regional service in northern Queensland. This comment puts that evaluation into a rapidly developing wider context, drawing on other work showing an association between research engagement in healthcare organisations and their improved healthcare. In most previous studies this impact arose as a by-product of the research activity. The Townsville scheme went further. But while the evaluation identified some progress and impacts, they were patchy, not system-wide. Recent pre-pandemic studies showed that going even further and integrating a health research system across a national healthcare system markedly improved healthcare, despite continuing challenges. The UK’s research experiences during COVID-19 are giving additional momentum to this approach globally.