bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WITHDRAWN: Performance Analysis of Hybrid Plasmonic Terahertz Waveguide fed Patch Antenna
Authors: Pallavi Mahankali , Mondal Shyamal , Thipparaju Rama Rao
Published: July 2023

To achieve high data rates and higher bandwidth, Terahertz (THz) radiation is a promising candidate for next generation wireless communications. This research study demonstrates that performance analysis of THz hybrid plasmonic waveguide fed patch antenna constructed around 2.5 to 3.5 THz. A hybrid plasmonic THz waveguide was used as a feed line for designed THz patch antenna to increase the antenna efficiency. The proposed plasmonic waveguide fed antenna consists of Gallium Arsenide (GaAs), a high index material enclosed by low index material of Aluminium Arsenide (AlAs) and silver (Ag) to confine the light inside the GaAs region. A graphene film is placed between high density polyethylene (HDPE) in order to increase the light confinement. The variation of width and height of the GaAs region, the parameters effective refractive index, mode area, dispersion, confinement loss, birefringence, beat length, waveguide fed antenna gain, efficiency and bandwidth have been studied using mode analysis by finite element method. Utilizing finite element approach, the simulation results of proposed hybrid plasmonic THz waveguide fed patch antenna shows effective refractive index of 3.79, birefringence of 0.2, beat length of 123 mm, mode area of 1.88 mm2, mode field diameter of 15.8 mm, normal dispersion of 0.10 ps/THz/cm, low confinement loss of 1.79 x 10− 9 mm− 1, waveguide fed antenna gain of 5.11dBi, bandwidth of 112.9 GHz, efficiency of 76% in the range of 2.5 to 3.5 THz. The proposed THz waveguide fed antenna can be feasible for various photonic integrated circuits for future THz communication applications.
Limitations of U25 CKiD and CKD-EPI eGFR formulae in patients 2-20 years of age with measured GFR>60 mL/min/1.73 m2 – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Filler Guido , Ahmad Fateh , Bhayana Vipin , de Ferris Maria Esther Díaz González , Sharma Ajay Parkash
Published: July 2023

Background: When applying Pierce U25 formula for estimating glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), we observed a higher proportion of eGFR<90 mL/min/1.73 m2 (chronic kidney disease=CKD stage 2). We compared agreement and accuracy of the Pierce U25 (ages 2-25), Pottel (ages 2-100), and CKD-EPI (ages 18-100) formulae to GFR measurements.
Methods: Post-hoc analysis of the three eGFRs compared to 367 99m technetium-diethylene-triamine penta-acetic acid (99Tc DTPA) GFR measurements (240 patients) using 3 sampling points and Brockner/Mørtensen correction (body surface area calculation based on ideal weight) on simultaneous serum creatinine and cystatin C measurements.
Results: Overall, the U25 formula performed well with a Spearman r of 0.8102 (95% confidence interval 0.7706 to 0.8435, p<0.0001) while diagnostic accuracy was low in patients with normal mGFR. The U25 formula reclassified 29.5% of patients with normal mGFR as CKD stage 2; whereas the average of the modified Schwartz formula based on serum creatinine and the Filler formula based on cystatin C, only over diagnosed CKD stage 2 in 8.5%, 24.5% within 10% and 62.7% within 30%. We therefore combined both. The average Schwartz/Filler eGFR had 36.5% of results within 10%, 84.7% within 30%, and normal mGFR accuracy was 26.8%, 63.9% for 10% and 30%, respectively, outperforming the CKD-EPI and Pottel formulae.
Interpretation: The Pierce U25 formula results correlated well with mGFR<75 mL/min/1.73m2. Over the entire GFR range, accuracy was better for patients with a higher mGFR, when averaging the combined Schwartz/Filler formulae. More work is needed to prospectively confirm our findings in other centers.
Newly discovered Pituitary Adenoma in the Emergency Center during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Serbia: Treatment and Early Postoperative Outcome
Authors: Radanović Dražen , Kaluđerović Dea , Pajić Srbislav , Slijepčević Nikola , Knežević Saša , Jakovljević Sofija , Elboursh Dušan , Bogosavljević Đurđina , Mirčić Uroš , Čukić Bojan
Published: July 2023

Introduction:Pituitary tumors represent 10-15% of all intracranial tumors. Clinical manifestations depend on the size of the tumor such as microadenoma, macroadenoma or giant adenoma, and type of the tumor (secreting or non-secreting). Surgical treatment of pituitary adenoma can be managed via transcranial or transsphenoidal approach. Depending on the approach, there is a possibillity of postoperative complications such as meningitis, pneumocephalus, liquorrhea, transient diabetes insipidus and ect.
Aim:The aim of this study was to establish the frequency of newly discovered pituitary tumors in the Emergency Center, University Clinical Center Of Serbia, during the COVID-19 pandemic in Serbia, and early postoperative complications in patients treated with an endoscopic and microscope transsphenoidal approach.
Material and methods: During the time period during the pandemic, the study contains 119 patients, from January 1, 2020 to March 1, 2023, of which 64 are male (53.8%) and 55 are female (46.2%), age range is 14 to 85 years with a mean of 52.10. As for statistical analysis, assessment of frequency rate and relative numbers were used as methods of descriptive statistics.
Results:Macroadenoma was present in 95 patients (79.83%), microadenoma in 22 patients (18.49%), and giant adenoma in 2 patients (1.69%). Transient DI developed postoperatively in 11 patients (9.24%). The average duration of hospitalization after surgery was 8 days.
Conclusion: The duration of hospitalization depends on numerous factors where the COVID-19 pandemic can serve as an example for future similar crisis situations so that better organization and preoperative preparation of patients can be implemented.
Abnormal Global Longitudinal Strain During Anthracycline Treatment Predicts Future Cardiotoxicity in Children
Authors: Gunsaulus Megan , Alsaied Tarek , Tersak Jean M. , Friehling Erika , Rose-Felker Kirsten
Published: July 2023

Background
Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a sensitive predictor of cardiotoxicity in adults with cancer. However, the significance of abnormal GLS during childhood cancer treatment is less well-understood.
Objectives
The objective was to evaluate the use of GLS for predicting later cardiac dysfunction in pediatric cancer survivors exposed to high dose anthracyclines.
Methods
This was a retrospective study of pediatric patients exposed to a doxorubicin isotoxic equivalent dose of ≥ 225mg/m2. Transthoracic echocardiograms (TTE) were obtained prior to chemotherapy (T1), during anthracycline therapy (T2), and following completion of therapy (T3). Cardiotoxicity was defined as meeting at least one of the following criteria after anthracycline therapy: a decrease in left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) by 10% from baseline to a value < 55%, fractional shortening < 28%, or a decrease in GLS by ≥ 15% from baseline.
Results
Nineteen of 57 (33%) patients met criteria for cardiotoxicity at T3. Cardiotoxicity was associated with a lower LVEF at T2 (p = 0.0003) and a decrease in GLS by ≥ 15% at T2 compared to baseline (p = < 0.0001). ROC analysis revealed that the best predictor of cardiotoxicity at T3 was the percent change in GLS at T2 compared to baseline (AUC 0.87). A subgroup analysis revealed that a decrease in GLS by ≥ 15% from baseline at 0–6 months from completion of anthracycline therapy was associated with cardiotoxicity > 1-year post-treatment (p = 0.017).
Conclusions
A decline in GLS during chemotherapy was the best predictor of cardiotoxicity post-treatment. GLS serves as an important marker of cardiac function in pediatric patients undergoing treatment with anthracyclines.
Assessing the Influence of Commercial Activity Characteristics Spatially on Human Behavior Post-COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Mabrouk Mahmoud , Han Haoying , Abdrabo Karim I. , Shen Guoqiang
Published: July 2023

Recently, various infectious diseases have emerged, some of which have evolved into world-threatening pandemic outbreaks. Since December 2019, the disastrous COVID-19 has spread rapidly worldwide, claiming many human lives, and dragging the global economy to a standstill with a dramatic recession. Among the ramifications are the transformations of commercial activity because of the prejudicial impact of the lockdown: a shift of sales channels towards online alternatives, accompanied by procedures for temporary closures or a move into the periphery regions with low operational expenses. Our research has significantly identified the influence of the characteristics of commercial uses on human behavioral changes in two Egyptian cities, namely the 6th of October and Sheikh Zayed, as a case study, in achieving self-sufficiency for residents during devastating outbreaks. Depending on geospatial software, descriptive geostatistical analysis, and semi-structured interviews, the study found that in both cities, new small commercial centers and complexes with more open spaces became more attractive than large malls by 74%. Also, new commercial forms are positively correlated with open spaces and negatively correlated with population density (estimated at.992 and − .366, respectively). This result may guide policymakers to transfer from huge malls to smarter, greener, dispersed malls during city planning and from monocentric urban structures to polycentric and linear commercial centers, shaping pandemic-resilient cities.
A systematic computational analysis of the endosomal recycling pathway in glioblastoma
Authors: Joyce Luke J. , Lindsay Andrew J.
Published: July 2023

Purpose
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and most aggressive brain cancer in adults. Approximately 250,000 new cases are diagnosed worldwide per year, and its incidence is rising due to our aging population. The standard treatment is brutal and has not changed in 20 years, and more than 85% of patients will die within two years of their diagnosis. There is thus an urgent need to identify new drug targets and develop novel therapeutic strategies that will increase survival and improve quality of life.
Methods
Using publicly available genomics, transcriptomics and proteomics datasets, we show that key regulators of endosomal recycling are dysregulated in GBM and are linked to survival outcomes.
Results
We report here that an intracellular membrane trafficking pathway called the endosomal recycling pathway represents a novel target that could be exploited for the development of small molecule inhibitors to treat people with GBM. We report an 8-gene endosomal recycling prognostic signature that can distinguish low-risk from high-risk GBM and potentially identify tumours that may benefit from endosomal recycling inhibitors.
Conclusion
This study presents the first systematic analysis of the endosomal recycling pathway in glioblastoma and proposes that it is a promising target for the development of novel therapies and therapeutic strategies that could improve the outcomes for patients with glioblastoma.
On behavior of transversely isotropic incompressible hyperelastic materials under multiaxial stretching
Authors: Methia Mounir , Bechir Hocine , Yaya Kamel
Published: July 2023

Nowadays, mechanical behavior of soft materials are characterized by using standard tests: uniaxial traction, simple shear (or combination) and equibiaxial tension. However, the multiaxial testing data are necessary in order to characterize the anisotropy, which is posing formidable technical challenges. We propose a new method to investigate multiaxial behavior of fiber-reinforced hyperelastic solids. The test protocol consists to deform a thin rectangular sample by coupling both the pure shear and simple shear loadings. The specimen is mounted and oriented by an angle in the plane of a special device, which is attached to a universal testing machine. So, the direction of stretching is dictated by in such way that, the stress-strain relations depend on and magnitude of the displacement prescribed on the sample edge, i.e. . The shape factor of the sample is assumed to dictate the direction of transverse isotropy in the reference configuration. Thereby, the direction of stretching could be taken neither parallel nor perpendicular to the stretching-direction. But also, it could be chosen parallel to the direction of transverse isotropy. Based on, we have revisited the standard results, established new ones, and investigated the anisotropy. We demonstrated that, the Cauchy stress fields are depending on the multiaxiality in the core region of the sample. So, the experimental data arising from this test could be used for both parameter calibration and/or validation of transversely isotropic incompressible hyper elastic models.
An amino acid mixture, enriched with Krebs cycle intermediates, enhances extracellular matrix gene expression in cultured human fibroblasts
Authors: Ragni Maurizio , Canciani Luca , Spataro Letizia , Ruocco Chiara , Valerio Alessandra , Nisoli Enzo
Published: July 2023

In the human body, the skin is one of the organs most affected by the aging process. Nutritional approaches aimed to counteract the age-induced decline of extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition could be a valuable tool to decrease the degenerative processes underlying skin aging. Here we investigated the ability of a six-amino acid plus hyaluronic acid (6AAH) formulation enriched with tricarboxylic acid (TCA) intermediates to stimulate ECM gene expression. To this aim, human BJ fibroblasts were supplemented with 6AAH alone or plus succinate or malate alone or succinate plus malate (6AAHSM), and mRNA levels of several ECM markers were evaluated. 6AAHSM increased the expression of all the ECM markers significantly above 6AAH alone or plus only succinate or malate. Furthermore, in an in vitro oxidative stress model, 6AAHSM blunted the hydrogen peroxide-induced decline in ECM gene expression. Our data suggest that dietary supplementation with 6AAH enriched with TCAs could efficiently be employed as a non-pharmacological approach for counteracting skin aging.
The Influence of Varying Sound Pitch on the Brain’s Electrical Activities of Young Nigerian Adults
Authors: Odigie Osagie Mike. , Anyaehie Ugochukwu Bond , Nwachukwu Daniel Chukwu , Igweh John Chukwuka , Naiho Alexander Obidike
Published: July 2023

There is a considerable interest in understanding the Brain’s electrical activity; at least to better the understanding of arousal and mental wakefulness in different conscious states, including in conditions like seizures. Electroencephalography is a technique for assessing Brain’s electrical function, and has been adapted for use in humans. Desynchronized waveforms occur frequently in humans during the sleep cycle, leading to a substantial alteration in serum levels of neuro-endocrine hormones for proper daily routines. In this study, we assessed the influence of pitch; a key ingredient in sounds on the electrical patterns of the brain of young Nigerian adults. Being a cross-sectional observation study, 400 healthy young Nigerians (16–35 years) from the students’ community of the Delta State University, Abraka, Delta State of Nigeria were exposed to varying pre-recorded sound pitches (30 Hz, 40 Hz, 50 Hz and 60 Hz) for 5 minutes each; haven determined their brainwave patterns [Alpha (α), Beta (β), delta (δ), Theta (θ) and Gamma (γ) rhythms] at rest (baseline) in a sound-proof studio, using the electroencephalogram (EEG). Statistical measures of association (correlation) was conducted, mean differences (ANOVA) computed with the graph pad prison (version 8.1), while adjudging p-value < 0.05 as statistically significant. Results suggest that lower frequency sounds (30Hz, 40 Hz) elicited α, or δ rhythms in relaxed cortical state, although insignificantly. ANOVA returned no significant change (p > 0.05) in brain activities compared to baseline. A weak negative correlation was observed (Pearson’s coefficient) between pitch and participants’ γ, θ and δ waveforms, even though this was insignificant (p > 0.05). Whereas, β and α activities returned strong and weak positive correlation respectively with increasing pitch administration. Thus, varying sound pitch increased brain’s electrical activities in exposed youths, although insignificantly.
WITHDRAWN: A novel hybrid MDM NGPON based wavelength coding enhancemente mploying probabilistically shaped quadrature
Authors: SH
Published: July 2023

A smooth evolution of 16×100Gbps hybrid mode division multiplexing (MDM)/coherent-next generation passive optical network (C-NGPON) system based on wavelength complement coding is proposed. Probabilistically shaped quadrature amplitude modulation (PS-QAM) modulation established alone as the key solution to embrace advanced coherent transponders. The simulation results show that the proposed hybrid MDM/C-NGPON system can offers a high split ratio of 512 in uplink and 256 in downlink as compared to conventional passive optical networks (PONs). For legacy PON signal coexistence with PON signals as well as complement signal the minimum received power of -19dBm for uplink and − 9dBm for downlink can be obtained effectively. Also, optical to signal noise ratio (OSNR) of 20dB can be achieved forPS-512QAM as compared to uniform-shaped 128QAM at 10KHz laser linewidth and it also offers power penalty of 0.5dBunder normalized generalized mutual information (NGMI) limit of 0.857. In addition, the system offers a long-haul transmission distance of 250km considering a shaping factor of 4.7 in uplink and 4.8 in downlink, at NGMI limit. Besides this, the system throughput upto 800Gbps for uplink and 700Gbps for downlink can also be obtained successfully. Finally, it is shown that proposed work shows superiority over other existing systems.
WITHDRAWN: Investigations on PON VLC OCDMA communications
Authors: SH
Published: July 2023

Green and smart buildings (SBs) are promising solutions to the fast-growing and ongoing urbanization around the globe and are the composition of huge services. The SB can acquire a tremendous amount of information and perform proper handling of many broadcasting residents accordingly. With the abrupt increase in the high-quality data transmission demands over long reach for the large number of connected residents in SBs, conventional data transmission techniques are inadequate to provide adequate services. Thus, in this paper, to improve the intelligence and reliability of SBs with high overall efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and security, a hybrid passive optical network (PON) and visible light communication (VLC) indoor broadcasting system is proposed. The bidirectional hybrid PON-VLC consists of integrated time and wavelength division multiplexing (TWDM) and wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) with optical code division multiplexing (OCDMA) PON with red green blue employed light emitting diodes (RGB LEDs) based VLC system. Seven OCDMA codes are utilized in the proposed work at a 10/2.5Gbps per channel transmission rate over hybrid fiber-VLC channels to strengthen the system performance. The simulation results show that the modified new zero cross-correlation (MNZCC) code outperforms other codes and provides a faithful 100km fiber length and 5m VLC range for 200 active residents. Moreover, VLC distance can be incremented up to 10m wireless range by increasing the received aperture diameter of 25cm. Also, the numerical analysis, as well as comparative performance, depicts the superiority of PON-VLC under the impact of impairments and noise in fiber-VLC link-based SBs.
Dynamics of Research Topics in Cloud Computing Technology: Insights From Methodology of Entity Linking and Burst Detection
Authors: Coccia Mario , Roshani Saeed
Published: July 2023

The goal of this study is to explore emerging trends in cloud computing with applications in markets. We apply a method to analyze entity linking to extract main keywords in cloud computing in accumulated publications. Results suggest that in cloud computing research, “Internet of things” has been growing fast compared to the other topics. Moreover, Cloud Computing and Mathematical Optimization play a vital role in developing the fundamental aspects of this research fields. “Virtual Machine” also has a main role in these topics. “Computer network” with a value of 87.143, “Encryption” with a value of 82.91, “Big data” with 75.85, and “Distributed computing” are the most fast-growth research topics in the domain of Cloud Computing. These results reveal basic aspects in cloud computing, such as cloud infrastructures, hardware development, computing and software development that can foster the overall cloud computing evolution. This study also shows that virtual machines and computing device can be of critical importance in cloud computing evolution. However, the implementation of cloud computing has to be supported by skill development, organizational management, and adopter engagement (i.e., an appropriate and effective innovation ecosystem), to facilitate the general diffusion of cloud technologies and the exploitation of cloud-based infrastructures to improve productivity and efficiency of firms and other organizations. Finally, results here also can suggest implications of research policies and innovation management to support R&D investments towards new technological trajectories in cloud computing having a potential of accelerated growth and consequential benefits in socioeconomic systems.
Diatoms. A viable tool for quantifying surface water pollution
Authors:   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Neidoni Dorian-Gabriel , Nicorescu Valeria ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Negrea Sorina ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Stoica Catalina ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Pahomi Alexandru ,   West University of Timisoara, Nita-Lazar Mihai ,   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology
Published: July 2023

The current work focused on the water quality of the Bega and Timis rivers measured by two methods. One of them is the method by which the water was analyzed from a physical-chemical point of view, and the other aimed at quantifying the degree of water pollution by biological methods. In this sense, diatoms were used. In the study, samples of water and diatoms were taken using specific techniques from the Bega and Timis rivers, starting from near the area of their formation until near the border with Serbia. Four sampling points were chosen on the Timis River plus one sampling point on the Surgani River, which is a tributary of the Timis, and six sampling points on the Bega River. The points were chosen specifically, being located downstream of the major sources of pollution. In order to locate the points, information was collected from the studies carried out as part of an extensive monitoring that spanned several years. The abundance and diversity of diatom species were used to calculate the Biological Diatom Index (BDI) and the Saprobity Index (SI). These two indices provide valuable information about organic or heavy metal pollution of water bodies.
Tropolones and Thailandepsin B as Lead-like Natural Compounds in the
Development of Potent and Selective Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors
Authors: Pal Dilipkumar , Lal Padum
Published: July 2023

Background:

Tropolone and thailandepsin B are naturally occurring substances that are
primarily isolated from fungi and plants, although they can also be found in certain bacteria.
Tropolones belong to an important class of aromatic compounds with a seven-membered nonbenzenoid
ring structure. Thailandepsins are a group of natural products that were initially discovered
in the culture broth of the Gram-negative bacterium Burkholderia thailandensis. Tropolonebased
structures have been identified in over 200 natural compounds, ranging from simple
tropolone derivatives to complex multicyclic systems like pycnidione and pyrerubrine A.

:

These natural compounds exhibit a diverse range of pharmacological effects, including antibacterial,
antifungal, insecticidal, phytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, antimitotic, anti-diabetic, enzyme inhibitory,
anticancer, cytoprotective, and ROS scavenging properties. It is worth noting that thujaplicane,
a compound similar to tropolone, displays all of the listed biological activities except for antimitotic
action, which has only been observed in one natural tropolone compound, colchicine.

:

Tropolone can be synthesized from commercially available seven-membered rings or derived
through various cyclization and cycloaddition reactions. Thailandepsin B, on the other hand, can be
synthesized by macro-lactonization of the corresponding secoacid, followed by the formation of internal
disulfide bonds. It is important to mention that thailandepsin B exhibits different selective inhibition
profiles compared to FK228.

Objective:

We investigated the HDAC inhibitory activity of the Tropolones and Thailandepsin B
and discussed the biosynthesis of the naturally occurring compounds and their synthetic scheme.

Results and Conclusion:

It has been observed that Tropolone derivatives act as isoenzyme-selective
inhibitors of proven anticancer drug targets, histone deacetylases (HDACs). Some monosubstituted
tropolones show remarkable levels of selectivity for HDAC2 and strongly inhibit the growth
of T-lymphocyte cell lines. And Thailandepsins have different selective inhibition profiles than
FK228. They exhibit comparable inhibitory activities to FK228 against human HDAC1, HDAC2,
HDAC3, HDAC6, HDAC7, and HDAC9, but less potent inhibitory activities than FK228 toward
HDAC4 and HDAC8, the latter of which may be useful. Thailandepsins possess potent cytotoxic
activities toward some types of cell lines.
Nanotechnological Advancements for the Theranostic Intervention in
Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer: Current Perspectives and Future Direction
Authors: Uppalapati Sai Swetha , Guha Lahanya , Kumar Hemant , Mandoli Amit
Published: July 2023

Anaplastic thyroid cancer is the rarest, most aggressive, and undifferentiated class of thyroid
cancer, accounting for nearly forty percent of all thyroid cancer-related deaths. It is caused by alterations
in many cellular pathways like MAPK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, ALK, Wnt activation, and TP53
inactivation. Although many treatment strategies, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, have
been proposed to treat anaplastic thyroid carcinoma, they are usually accompanied by concerns such
as resistance, which may lead to the lethality of the patient. The emerging nanotechnology-based approaches
cater the purposes such as targeted drug delivery and modulation in drug release patterns
based on internal or external stimuli, leading to an increase in drug concentration at the site of the action
that gives the required therapeutic action as well as modulation in diagnostic intervention with the
help of dye property materials. Nanotechnological platforms like liposomes, micelles, dendrimers, exosomes,
and various nanoparticles are available and are of high research interest for therapeutic intervention
in anaplastic thyroid cancer. The pro gression of the disease can also be traced by using magnetic
probes or radio-labeled probes and quantum dots that serve as a diagnostic intervention in anaplastic
thyroid cancer.
Unfolding a Series of Suggestions: A Reflection on a publication practice permeated by dialogue
Authors: Persyn Leonie
Published: July 2023

How to share a process with peers and an audience is avaluable and urgent question to both academia and the artistic field. Thisarticle aims to contribute to an answer by questioning how within academia theprocess can be re-evaluated. In order to do so, it focusses on how the notion of unfolding provides the publication formatA Series of Suggestions with thepower to become a tool for sharing andthinking. This article does not only bring the perspective of theresearcher into the discussion of collaboration within performance studies, butby doing so it shows the importance andconsequence that result from a methodology in listening rather than composing. 
The Adverse Effects and Nonmedical Use of Methylphenidate Before and After the Outbreak of COVID-19: Machine Learning Analysis
Authors: Shin Hocheol , Yuniar Cindra Tri , Oh SuA , Purja Sujata , Park Sera , Lee Haeun , Kim Eunyoung
Published: July 2023

Background

Methylphenidate is an effective first-line treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, many adverse effects of methylphenidate have been recorded from randomized clinical trials and patient-reported outcomes, but it is difficult to determine abuse from them. In the context of COVID-19, it is important to determine how drug use evaluation, as well as misuse of drugs, have been affected by the pandemic. As people share their reasons for using medication, patient sentiments, and the effects of medicine on social networking services (SNSs), the application of machine learning and SNS data can be a method to overcome the limitations. Proper machine learning models could be evaluated to validate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on drug use.

Objective

To analyze the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the use of methylphenidate, this study analyzed the adverse effects and nonmedical use of methylphenidate and evaluated the change in frequency of nonmedical use based on SNS data before and after the outbreak of COVID-19. Moreover, the performance of 4 machine learning models for classifying methylphenidate use based on SNS data was compared.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, SNS data on methylphenidate from Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram from January 2019 to December 2020 were collected. The frequency of adverse effects, nonmedical use, and drug use before and after the COVID-19 pandemic were compared and analyzed. Interrupted time series analysis about the frequency and trends of nonmedical use of methylphenidate was conducted for 24 months from January 2019 to December 2020. Using the labeled training data set and features, the following 4 machine learning models were built using the data, and their performance was evaluated using F-1 scores: naïve Bayes classifier, random forest, support vector machine, and long short-term memory.

Results

This study collected 146,352 data points and detected that 4.3% (6340/146,352) were firsthand experience data. Psychiatric problems (521/1683, 31%) had the highest frequency among the adverse effects. The highest frequency of nonmedical use was for studies or work (741/2016, 36.8%). While the frequency of nonmedical use before and after the outbreak of COVID-19 has been similar (odds ratio [OR] 1.02 95% CI 0.91-1.15), its trend has changed significantly due to the pandemic (95% CI 2.36-22.20). Among the machine learning models, RF had the highest performance of 0.75.

Conclusions

The trend of nonmedical use of methylphenidate has changed significantly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the machine learning models using SNS data to analyze the adverse effects and nonmedical use of methylphenidate, the random forest model had the highest performance.
Involving Health Care Professionals in the Development of Electronic Health Records: Scoping Review
Authors: Busse Theresa Sophie , Jux Chantal , Laser Johannes , Rasche Peter , Vollmar Horst Christian , Ehlers Jan P , Kernebeck Sven
Published: July 2023

Background

Electronic health records (EHRs) are a promising approach to document and map (complex) health information gathered in health care worldwide. However, possible unintended consequences during use, which can occur owing to low usability or the lack of adaption to existing workflows (eg, high cognitive load), may pose a challenge. To prevent this, the involvement of users in the development of EHRs is crucial and growing. Overall, involvement is designed to be very multifaceted, for example, in terms of the timing, frequency, or even methods used to capture user preferences.

Objective

Setting, users and their needs, and the context and practice of health care must be considered in the design and subsequent implementation of EHRs. Many different approaches to user involvement exist, each requiring a variety of methodological choices. The aim of the study was to provide an overview of the existing forms of user involvement and the circumstances they need and to provide support for the planning of new involvement processes.

Methods

We conducted a scoping review to provide a database for future projects on which design of inclusion is worthwhile and to show the diversity of reporting. Using a very broad search string, we searched the PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus databases. In addition, we searched Google Scholar. Hits were screened according to scoping review methodology and then examined, focusing on methods and materials, participants, frequency and design of the development, and competencies of the researchers involved.

Results

In total, 70 articles were included in the final analysis. There was a wide range of methods of involvement. Physicians and nurses were the most frequently included groups and, in most cases, were involved only once in the process. The approach of involvement (eg, co-design) was not specified in most of the studies (44/70, 63%). Further qualitative deficiencies in the reporting were evident in the presentation of the competences of members of the research and development teams. Think-aloud sessions, interviews, and prototypes were frequently used.

Conclusions

This review provides insights into the diversity of health care professionals’ involvement in the development of EHRs. It provides an overview of the different approaches in various fields of health care. However, it also shows the necessity of considering quality standards in the development of EHRs together with future users and the need for reporting this in future studies.
Involving Health Care Professionals in the Development of Electronic Health Records: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Busse Theresa Sophie , Jux Chantal , Laser Johannes , Rasche Peter , Vollmar Horst Christian , Ehlers Jan P , Kernebeck Sven
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Electronic health records (EHRs) are a promising approach to document and map (complex) health information gathered in health care worldwide. However, possible unintended consequences during use, which can occur owing to low usability or the lack of adaption to existing workflows (eg, high cognitive load), may pose a challenge. To prevent this, the involvement of users in the development of EHRs is crucial and growing. Overall, involvement is designed to be very multifaceted, for example, in terms of the timing, frequency, or even methods used to capture user preferences.

OBJECTIVE

Setting, users and their needs, and the context and practice of health care must be considered in the design and subsequent implementation of EHRs. Many different approaches to user involvement exist, each requiring a variety of methodological choices. The aim of the study was to provide an overview of the existing forms of user involvement and the circumstances they need and to provide support for the planning of new involvement processes.

METHODS

We conducted a scoping review to provide a database for future projects on which design of inclusion is worthwhile and to show the diversity of reporting. Using a very broad search string, we searched the PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus databases. In addition, we searched Google Scholar. Hits were screened according to scoping review methodology and then examined, focusing on methods and materials, participants, frequency and design of the development, and competencies of the researchers involved.

RESULTS

In total, 70 articles were included in the final analysis. There was a wide range of methods of involvement. Physicians and nurses were the most frequently included groups and, in most cases, were involved only once in the process. The approach of involvement (eg, co-design) was not specified in most of the studies (44/70, 63%). Further qualitative deficiencies in the reporting were evident in the presentation of the competences of members of the research and development teams. Think-aloud sessions, interviews, and prototypes were frequently used.

CONCLUSIONS

This review provides insights into the diversity of health care professionals’ involvement in the development of EHRs. It provides an overview of the different approaches in various fields of health care. However, it also shows the necessity of considering quality standards in the development of EHRs together with future users and the need for reporting this in future studies.
Telemedicine-Based Management of Oral Anticoagulation Therapy: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Braga Ferreira Letícia , Lanna de Almeida Rodrigo , Arantes Alair , Abdulazeem Hebatullah , Weerasekara Ishanka , Ferreira Leticia Santos Dias Norberto , Fonseca de Almeida Messias Luana , Siuves Ferreira Couto Luciana , Parreiras Martins Maria Auxiliadora , Suelen Antunes Núbia , Fonseca Cândido Raissa Carolina , Rosa Ferreira Samuel , Guerra Pezzini Assis Tati , Marques Pedroso Thais , Boersma Eric , Ribeiro Antonio , Marcolino Milena Soriano
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Oral anticoagulation is the cornerstone treatment of several diseases. Its management is often challenging, and different telemedicine strategies have been implemented to support it.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to systematically review the evidence on the impact of telemedicine-based oral anticoagulation management compared to usual care on thromboembolic and bleeding events.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trials were searched in 5 databases from inception to September 2021. Two independent reviewers performed study selection and data extraction. Total thromboembolic events, major bleeding, mortality, and time in therapeutic range were assessed. Results were pooled using random effect models.

RESULTS

In total, 25 randomized controlled trials were included (n=25,746 patients) and classified as moderate to high risk of bias by the Cochrane tool. Telemedicine resulted in lower rates of thromboembolic events, though not statistically significant (n=13 studies, relative risk [RR] 0.75, 95% CI 0.53-1.07; I2=42%), comparable rates of major bleeding (n=11 studies, RR 0.94, 95% CI 0.82-1.07; I2=0%) and mortality (n=12 studies, RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.78-1.20; I2=11%), and an improved time in therapeutic range (n=16 studies, mean difference 3.38, 95% CI 1.12-5.65; I2=90%). In the subgroup of the multitasking intervention, telemedicine resulted in an important reduction of thromboembolic events (RR 0.20, 95% CI 0.08-0.48).

CONCLUSIONS

Telemedicine-based oral anticoagulation management resulted in similar rates of major bleeding and mortality, a trend for fewer thromboembolic events, and better anticoagulation quality compared to standard care. Given the potential benefits of telemedicine-based care, such as greater access to remote populations or people with ambulatory restrictions, these findings may encourage further implementation of eHealth strategies for anticoagulation management, particularly as part of multifaceted interventions for integrated care of chronic diseases. Meanwhile, researchers should develop higher-quality evidence focusing on hard clinical outcomes, cost-effectiveness, and quality of life.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42020159208; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=159208
Approaches to Evaluating Digital Health Technologies: Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Rauwerdink Anneloek , Spinazze Pier , Gijsbers Harm , Molendijk Juul , Zwolsman Sandra , Schijven Marlies P , Chavannes Niels H , Kasteleyn Marise J
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Profound scientific evaluation of novel digital health technologies (DHTs) is key to enhance successful development and implementation. As such, we previously developed the eHealth evaluation cycle. The eHealth evaluation cycle contains 5 consecutive study phases: conceptual, development, feasibility, effectiveness, and implementation.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to develop a better understanding of the daily practice of the eHealth evaluation cycle. Therefore, the objectives are to conduct a structured analysis of literature data to analyze the practice of the evaluation study phases and to determine which evaluation approaches are used in which study phase of the eHealth evaluation cycle.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic literature search in PubMed including the MeSH term “telemedicine” in combination with a wide variety of evaluation approaches. Original peer-reviewed studies published in the year 2019 (pre-COVID-19 cohort) were included. Nonpatient-focused studies were excluded. Data on the following variables were extracted and systematically analyzed: journal, country, publication date, medical specialty, primary user, functionality, evaluation study phases, and evaluation approach. RStudio software was used to summarize the descriptive data and to perform statistical analyses.

RESULTS

We included 824 studies after 1583 titles and abstracts were screened. The majority of the evaluation studies focused on the effectiveness (impact; 304/824, 36.9%) study phase, whereas uptake (implementation; 70/824, 8.5%) received the least focus. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs; 170/899, 18.9%) were the most commonly used DHT evaluation method. Within the effectiveness (impact) study phase, RCTs were used in one-half of the studies. In the conceptual and planning phases, survey research (27/78, 35%) and interview studies (27/78, 35%) were most frequently used. The United States published the largest amount of DHT evaluation studies (304/824, 36.9%). Psychiatry and mental health (89/840, 10.6%) and cardiology (75/840, 8.9%) had the majority of studies published within the field.

CONCLUSIONS

We composed the first comprehensive overview of the actual practice of implementing consecutive DHT evaluation study phases. We found that the study phases of the eHealth evaluation cycle are unequally studied and most attention is paid to the effectiveness study phase. In addition, the majority of the studies used an RCT design. However, in order to successfully develop and implement novel DHTs, stimulating equal evaluation of the sequential study phases of DHTs and selecting the right evaluation approach that fits the iterative nature of technology might be of the utmost importance.
Development and internal validation of three multivariable prediction models of Hispanic immigrant documentation status utilizing two samples from the southwestern United States (Preprint)
Authors: Rivers Patrick , Sun Xiaoxiao , Garcia David O. , Pogreba-Brown Kristen , Carvajal Scott C. , Marrero David G.
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Research on undocumented populations is sparse, both because documentation status is rarely ascertained in studies, and because undocumented individuals are less likely overall to participate in research studies. A better understanding of the health of these individuals is important, though, and one method that has been proposed to examine outcomes for this group without putting them at additional risk is through predictive modelling.

OBJECTIVE

Develop and internally validate a predictive model of documentation status.

METHODS

Utilizing combined data from two population-based samples in Arizona in which documentation status were collected, three prediction models of documentation status were created and internally validated. Models created used multiple imputation by chained equations (MICE), and two machine learning algorithms: random forests machine learning and support vector machine. Predicted documentation status was modelled from demographic, health behavior, and disease status indicators commonly collected in public health research studies. The performance of each model was assessed in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, and Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC).

RESULTS

The combined sample consisted of 473 individuals, of whom 85 were undocumented. The sample included 209 men and 263 women, aged 20 to 83 years of age at the time of their participation in the respective studies. The MICE model had the lowest rates of accuracy (64.3%), precision (0.81), recall (0.74), and MCC (-0.07). The random forests model was slightly better with an accuracy of 73.1%, precision of 0.82, recall of 0.86, and MCC of 0.002. The support vector machine was the strongest in all categories, with an accuracy of 90.7%, precision of 0.90, recall of 0.99, and MCC of 0.66.

CONCLUSIONS

Utilizing predictive models could protect the safety of vulnerable individuals as well as make possible investigation into potentially undocumented individuals in settings where it would be impractical or impossible to gather information on documentation status first-hand. The results of the current analysis demonstrate some promise and further investigation, particularly the support vector machine model.
Serious Game for Fine Motor Control Rehabilitation for Children With Epileptic Encephalopathy: Development and Usability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Vidal Elizabeth , Castro-Gutierrez Eveling , Arisaca Robert , Paz-Valderrama Alfredo , Albiol-Pérez Sergio
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Epileptic encephalopathy (EE) is defined as the presence of frequent epileptiform activity that adversely impacts development, typically causing the slowing or regression of developmental skills, and is usually associated with frequent seizures. One of the main disturbances in EE is in the coordination of the upper extremities and hands. Traditional rehabilitation for this type of pathology focuses on the alleviation of gross or fine motor disability. In the last few years, the use of low-cost devices together with customized serious games has shown improvements in motor disorders and enrichments in activities of daily living.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the feasibility of a new serious game for improving fine motor control in children with EE.

METHODS

The participants were 4 children with EE (male: n=2, 50%; female: n=2, 50%) who were classified as belonging to level 1 in the Gross Motor Classification System. The children were tested over 10 sessions during the intervention period (before and after treatment). The clinical tests performed were the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, 2nd edition and Pittsburgh Rehabilitation Participation Scale. The subscales of the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency, 2nd edition were fine motor precision, fine motor integration, manual dexterity, and upper-limb coordination. At the end of the first session, we used the User Satisfaction Evaluation Questionnaire to analyze user satisfaction.

RESULTS

The significance outcomes for a Student t test (1-tailed) were as follows: P=.009 for fine motor precision, P=.002 for fine motor integration, P=.56 for manual dexterity, and P=.99 for upper-limb coordination. The participation rate as measured using the Pittsburgh Rehabilitation Participation Scale was between good and very good, which means that, based on the therapist’s evaluation, interest, independence, and motivation were achieved by each participant. The mean User Satisfaction Evaluation Questionnaire score was close to 30, which is the maximum value.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support the use of the proposed serious game as a complement in therapeutic sessions during the rehabilitation processes for children with EE. Significant improvements in fine motor control and activities of daily living revealed that the proposed serious game is beneficial for fine motor disorders of this pathology.