bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of a student co-designed interactive online learning platform to support medical students in the COVID pandemic
Authors: Zhou Jessie , Lindley Jennifer , Neves Colton , Punwani Vishal , Giles Emma , Leech Michelle , Torda Adrienne
Published: May 2022

Background:The global pandemic has mandated the development of innovative online learning tools for clinical year medical students, who have traditionally learned through clinical clerkship models. There is limited evidence as to whether curriculum delivery through a student co-designed online learning platform would ​​be beneficial to student satisfaction, engagement and academic progression for clinical year medical students. Methods:A mixed methods research method was used to explore the impact of a student co-designed learning pathway. Baseline thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews were firstly conducted to identify unmet e-learning needs in a cohort of 1500 medical students. Subsequent student co-creation of a novel online resource for 500 medical students undertaking their first clinical year was developed utilizing learning software (Sophya). Post implementation, anonymous evaluation surveys were distributed and in-built engagement statistics from Sophya were analysed.Results:Semi-structured interviews identified a significant unmet need for multimodal, student-centred, personalised learning methods that are accessible, relevant and centralised. Students most engaged with the online resource achieved higher grades (average 4.1% difference) compared to those least engaged. Student and faculty academics used the Sophya platform to curate 364 learning items across twelve core medicine and surgery domains through interactive modules, video tutorials, revision and self-assessment puzzles and quizzes. Within one semester, 72% of the student cohort had engaged with the platform, 946.2 hours were spent on the pathway, 11,480 learning activities completed and 1070 flashcards reviewed. Evaluation demonstrated students valued the structure and content of the resource (average rating 4.2 and 4.1 out of 5, respectively). 90.8% of respondents agreed the platform helped their learning, with video materials on clinical application most heavily utilized. Conclusion:Student co-created learning pathways, utilising interactive educational software in addition to current learning management systems, can assist faculty academics better support student learning needs and create a sustainable online platform that benefits clinical student training.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Formulas against Insomnia: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: LIN JENCHIN , Pao Li-Heng , Su Shan-Yu , Huang Shyh-Shyun , Lin Jaung-Geng , Cheng Yung-Chi , Chao Jung
Published: May 2022

Background
Insomnia is often related to comorbidities like anxiety and depression. Since sleeping pills can cause side effects and dependency, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long been used as an alternative for insomnia. The main purpose of this study was to review the clinical evidence-base of treating insomnia with TCM, providing comprehensive empirical evidence of its effectiveness. This study investigated the commonly used TCM formulas in Taiwan.
Methods
A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) listed in databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, and CNKI) was conducted to identify studies discussing the use of TCM formulas against insomnia. A total of 108 studies (n = 9620) were included in this study (treatment: n = 4966; control: n = 4654). In addition, a meta-analysis was performed on the total effective rate of TCM against insomnia (including 103 studies, n = 9122) as well as the effectiveness of TCM for subjective sleep quality (including 46 studies, n = 4303).
Results
Seven TCM formulas (Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang, Suan Zao Ren Tang, Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan, Xiao Yao San, Gan Mai Da Zao Tang, Yang Xin Tang, and Gui Pi Tang) had higher effective rates for alleviating clinical symptoms than conventional Western medicines. Furthermore, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score dropped more significantly in the group treated with TCM than that treated by conventional Western medicine, indicating that TCM could improve patients’ sleep quality.
Conclusion
This study verified the effectiveness of TCM in enhancing patients’ sleep quality.
Sexual Quality of Life, Self-Compassion and Desire to Use Onco-Sexology Support by Cancer Patients
Authors: Lantheaume Sophie , Moták Ladislav , Guy Jean-Baptiste , Paucsik Marine , Doublet Louis , Préau Marie , Kotsou Ilios , Huyghe Eric
Published: May 2022

Background: Cancer and its treatments may affect the sexual quality of life (SQoL) of cancer patients, but the use of onco-sexology support (OSS) is relatively rare; it is therefore important to identify the intrinsic factors associated with health behaviours. Aim: To evaluate the role of self-compassion (SC) on the desire of cancer patients to use onco-sexology support (DUOSS), according to their SQoL. Methods: Five hundred patients were contacted by mail and asked to complete questionnaires on their SQoL, SC and DUOSS.Outcomes The primary outcome was the role of SC on DUOSS as a function of SQoL, and the secondary outcome was the relationship between SC, SQoL and DUOSSResults: Five hundred patients were contacted and 96 (19.2%) took part in the study (mean age 54.2 years, 93.7% female). The participants were divided into two groups: Group 1, patients reporting a satisfactory SQoL (n=41); and Group 2, patients reporting an unsatisfactory SQoL (n=55). Significant differences were observed in SC and DUOSS, and in several demographic (marital status) and clinical (type of treatment) characteristics between G1 and G2. A positive association was found between SQoL and SC, and between SQoL and DUOSS, and there was an indirect link between SC, SQoL and DUOSS. Clinical implications SC has an important role in SQoL and interventions should be developed to target SC over the course of care of cancer patients. Strengths and Limitations The strengths of the study are the large number of participants and the fact that this is the first study on SC and its possible role in DUOSS. The study is limited by the sample composition, which consisted mainly of women, limiting the external validity of the results. In addition, the body image of the patient or the sexual satisfaction of the partner were not evaluated.Conclusion: SC is a contributing factor to DUOSS in cancer patients with a poor SQoL and interventions should focus on SC from the start of anti-cancer treatment to improve SQoL and encourage the use of OSS.
Establishing Normative Standards of Binocular Visual Function in Taiwanese Young Adults
Authors: Chen Shyan-Tarng , Su Kuo-Chen , Wang Po-Hsin , Zhong Xiang-Yin , Cheng Ching Ying
Published: May 2022

Purpose: Traditional normative values of binocular vision, known as Morgan’s & Scheiman’s and Optometry Extension Program(OEP) expected findings, have been used since long in clinical optometry. However, with technological advances, visual habits and visual demands have changed. Therefore, clinical assessment could examine the applicability of the established criteria in Taiwan. Methods: Participants aged 15–24 years were recruited from three universities and colleges. After completing the Visual Behavioral Performance questionnaire with four components: near work, visual perception, visual comfort and balance of body, participants were separated into symptomatic or asymptomatic groups based on the results of the questionnaire survey. A 24-step binocular visual examination was undertaken. Data were analyzed with the one-sample t-test and an ROC curve to compare and establish normative values for Taiwanese young adults.Results: Among the 308 healthy Taiwanese young adults, the prevalence of accommodation or vergence anomalies was 15% (46 participants). The commonest dysfunctions in this study were accommodative excess and convergence excess. Most of the binocular visual functions in this study showed significant difference from the traditional normative values: amplitude of accommodation, base-in prism to break and recovery points at distance were better than the traditional normative values, whereas others were worse. In addition, different visual tasks require different binocular visual functions, and the ROC curve was used to analyze the normative values of binocular visual functions required for near work, visual perception, visual comfort, and body balance.Conclusion and Discussion: The mean values of binocular visual function in Taiwanese young adults were worse than that in the traditional normative values. With changing times, racial differences, and more tasks for visual needs, it is essential to establish binocular visual normative values for Taiwanese young adults.
Dihydroartemisinin protects against acute and chronic pain via SIRT3-dependent inhibition of peroxiredoxin-3 hyperacetylation and peroxynitrite accumulation in mice
Authors: Zhang Linlin , Wang Zhen , Wang Chunyan , Li Jing , Zhao Yuying , Zhang Haoyue , Yu Yonghao , Wang Guolin , Li Yize
Published: May 2022

Background
Pain is often refractory to most current analgesics, thus emphasizing the necessity for improved therapeutic medications. Oxidative insult is critical for spinal nociception sensitization. Recent studies report the removal of peroxynitrite by the 1st -line anti-malaria drug dihydroartemisinin (DHA) in several neurological disorders. Herein, we explored whether DHA inhibits pathological pain and investigated the potential targets of DHA in pain treatment.
Methods
Pain-related behaviors were evaluated to examine the effect of DHA on acute inflammatory pain induced by Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA), chronic neuropathic pain after peripheral nerve injury and paclitaxel application, as well as sarcoma-induced bone cancer pain in mice. Spinal SIRT3 activity, 3-nitrotyrosine production, peroxiredoxin-3 acetylation, spine morphology and synaptic plasticity were detected to elucidate substantially involved cascades.
Results
Intrathecal DHA administration prevented CFA-induced mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia and NMDA-induced acute spontaneous pain. Intrathecal DHA treatment impaired the initiation and maintenance of chronic neuropathic pain and cancer pain. Oral DHA therapy was effective against acute and chroinc pain. Furthermore, DHA reduced the spinal SIRT3 inactivation, 3-nitrotyrosine accumulation, peroxiredoxin-3 hyperacetylation and dendritic spine density in our pain models. Analgesic effect of DHA was eliminated by spinal SIRT3 inhibition. Additionally, DHA delivery blocked CFA and peripheral nerve injury mediated synaptic transmission in vitro.
Conclusion
DHA alleviates acute and chronic pain by increasing spinal SIRT3 activity to inhibit peroxiredoxin-3 hyperacetylation and peroxynitrite accumulation to impair structural and functional synaptic plasticity, suggesting that DHA may be a therapeutic strategy for pain-relief in clinics.
CCT2 enhances the proliferation and migration of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma via regulating cell cycle
Authors: Lu Lin , Li Xuerong , Zhao Yiwei , Zhai Xuefan , Cai Min , Bao Baicheng , Li Menghuan , Sun Jianbo
Published: May 2022

Recent therapeutic advances have improved the survival of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) patients, but the prognosis of HNSCC remains dismal. Further understanding of the underlying mechanism of HNSCC progression is still an urgent need. In this study, bioinformatics-based analysis revealed that Chaperonin containing TCP-1, subunit 2 (CCT2) is significantly upregulated in HNSCC and related to pathoclinical outcomes, which is validated by the fact that four human HNSCC cell lines all express higher CCT2 than the normal oral squamous cell line. Clinically, high CCT2 expression was positively associated with worse overall survival (OS) and TNM classification in HNSCC patients. Further study indicated that suppression of CCT2 by RNA interference significantly inhibits cell proliferation, migration and invasion, arrests cell cycle at G2 phase, and prevents epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of both SAS and HSC-3 cell lines. In vivo assays further verified that CCT2 knockdown inhibited tumor growth in HNSCC. Moreover, knockdown of CCT2 led to the significant decrease of Cdc20 as well as cyclin D1, cyclin E1, and CDK6 while increase of GSK3-α/β and p27, which shed light into molecular mechanism of CCT2 function. In conclusion, elevated CCT2 expression promotes HNSCC cell proliferation via Cdc20 mediated cyclin-CDK pathway and CCT2 would be a valuable prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in HNSCC.
Obese dogs exhibit different fecal microbiome and specific microbial networks compared with normal weight dogs
Authors: Kim Hanbeen , Seo Jakyeom , Park Tansol , Seo Kangmin , Cho Hyunwoo , Chun Julan , Kim Kihyun
Published: May 2022

Background: Canine obesity is a major health concern that predisposes dogs to various disorders. The fecal microbiome has been attracting attention because of their impact on energy efficiency and metabolic disorders of host. However, little is known about specific microbial interactions, and how these may be affected by obesity in dogs. The objective of this study was to investigate the differences in fecal microbiome and specific microbial networks between obese and normal dogs. A total of 20 beagle dogs (males = 12, body weight [BW]: 10.5 ± 1.08 kg; females = 8, BW: 11.3 ± 1.71 kg; all 2-year-old) were fed to meet the maintenance energy requirements for 18 weeks. Then, 12 beagle dogs were selected based on body condition score (BCS) and divided into two groups: high BCS group (HBCS; BCS range: 7–9, males = 4, females = 2) and normal BCS group (NBCS; BCS range: 4–6, males = 4, females = 2). In the final week of the experiment, fecal samples were collected directly from the rectum, before breakfast, for analyzing the fecal microbiome using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing.Results: The HBCS group had a significantly higher final BW than the NBCS group (P < 0.01). The relative abundances of Faecalibacterium, Phascolarctobacterium, Megamonas, Bacteroides, Mucispirillum, and an unclassified genus within Ruminococcaceae were significantly higher in the HBCS group than those in the NBCS group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, some Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) modules related to amino acid biosynthesis and B vitamins biosynthesis were enriched in the HBCS group (P < 0.10), whereas those related to carbohydrate metabolism were enriched in the NBCS group (P < 0.10). Microbial network analysis revealed distinct co-occurrence and mutually exclusive interactions between the HBCS and NBCS groups.Conclusions: In conclusion, several genera related to short-chain fatty acid production were enriched in the HBCS group. The enriched KEGG modules in the HBCS group enhanced energy efficiency through cross-feeding between auxotrophs and prototrophs. However, further studies are needed to investigate how specific networks can be interpreted in the context of fermentation characteristics in the lower gut and obesity in dogs.
The Effect of Hepatocyte Growth Factor on Intestinal Adaption in an Experimental Model of Short Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Bagias George , Misiakos Evangelos P , Charalampopoulos Anestis , Zavras Nick , Sakellariou Stratigoula , Schizas Dimitrios , Sukhotnik Igor , Giamarelos Evangelos , Pikoulis Emmanouil
Published: May 2022

Purpose
Nowadays, the standard therapy for patients with short bowel syndrome is parenteral nutrition (PN). Various growth factors have been tested in order to achieve weaning from prolonged PN administration. We evaluated the effect of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) on structural intestinal adaptation and cell proliferation in a rat model of SBS.
Methods
Thirty Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups; group A rats (sham) underwent bowel transection, group B rats underwent a 75% bowel resection and group C rats underwent the same procedure but were treated postoperatively with HGF. Histopathologic parameters of intestinal adaptation were determined, while a microarray and a rt-PCR analyses of ileal RNA was also performed.
Results
Treatment with HGF resulted in significant increase in body weight, while the jejunal and ileal villus height and crypt depth were increased in HGF rats (36%, P < 0.05 and 27%, P < 0.05 respectively). Enterocyte proliferation was also significantly increased in HGF rats (21% P < 0.05). Microarray and quantitative rt-PCR analyses showed that the genes hgfac, rac 1, cdc42 and akt 1 were more than two-fold up-regulated after HGF treatment.
Conclusion
HGF emerges as a growth factor that enhances intestinal adaptation. The future use of HGF may potentially reduce the requirement for PN in SBS patients.
Inhibition of ventral tegmental area projections to the nucleus accumbens shell increases premature responding in the 5-Choice serial reaction time task in rats
Authors: Flores-Dourojeanni Jacques P. , Munkhof Marleen H. van den , Luijendijk Mieneke C.M. , Vanderschuren Louk J. M.J. , Adan Roger A.H.
Published: May 2022

Exaggerated impulsivity and attentional impairments are hallmarks of certain disorders of behavioural control such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), schizophrenia and addiction. Pharmacological studies have implicated elevated dopamine (DA) levels in the nucleus accumbens shell (NAcbS) in impulsive actions. The NAcbS receives its DA input from the ventral tegmental area (VTA), and we have previously shown that optogenetic activation of VTA-NAcbS projections impaired impulse control and attention in the five-choice serial reaction time task (5-CSRTT) in rats. To better understand the role of VTA-NAcbS projections in impulsivity and attention, the present study sought to inhibit this projection using optogenetics. We demonstrate that inhibiting VTA-NAcbS efferents during the last seconds of the inter-trial interval (i.e., immediately before presentation of the instructive cue) induces exaggerated impulsive action, in the absence of changes in attentional or motivational parameters in the 5-CSRTT. Together with our earlier observations, this suggests that impulse control in the 5-CSRTT is tightly controlled by VTA-NAcbS activity, with deviations in both directions resulting in increased impulsivity.
Behavioral changes in senescent giant Pacific octopus (Enteroctopus dofleini) are associated with peripheral neural degeneration and loss of epithelial tissue
Authors: Holst Meghan M. , Hauver Camille M. , Stein Rachel S. , Milano Bianca L. , Zink Andrew G. , Watters Jason V. , Crook Robyn J.
Published: May 2022

Most species of octopus experience extreme physical decline after a single reproductive bout which extends over a period of days, weeks, or months before eventual death. Although outward indicators of senescence are widely recognized, comparatively little is known about physiological and neural changes accompanying terminal decline in octopuses. Here, we measured changes in behavioral response to nociceptive stimuli across the lifespan in giant Pacific octopus (GPO), Enteroctopus dofleini, held in public aquariums in the USA. Post-euthanasia, tissue was collected from arm tips, and neural and epithelial cell degeneration was quantified and compared with biopsies of arm tips from healthy, pre-reproductive GPOs. Behavioral assays showed significant changes both in low threshold mechanosensory responses and nociceptive behavioral responses beginning early in senescence and extending until euthanasia. Histology data showed that while the ratio of apoptotic cells to total cell number stayed constant between healthy and senescent GPOs, overall neural and epithelial cell density was significantly lower in terminally senescent octopuses compared with healthy controls. Our data provide new insight into the time-course and causes of sensory dysfunction in senescent cephalopods and suggest proactive welfare management should begin early in the senescence phase, well before animals enter terminal decline.
Angelica Sinensis polysaccharide attenuates chondrocyte ferroptosis and alleviates cartilage degeneration in OA
Authors: Yin Guangrong , Ni Su , Wang Liangliang , Xu Nanwei , Zhao Gongyin , Zhu Ruixia , Jiang Shijie , Wang Jiahao , Zhou Baojun , Wang Yuji
Published: May 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the common degenerative diseases. Its main pathogenesis is the progressive destruction of articular cartilage, synovitis, subchondral bone, and periarticular muscle changes. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that ferroptosis may be important in the progression of OA. Angelica Sinensis polysaccharide (ASP), a traditional Chinese medicine, possesses antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties in chondrocytes. In this study, we observed that ferroptosis participates in OA’s progression. Importantly, GPX4, FTH1, and GSH expressions were higher while MDA level was down-regulated in the control group than in the OA group. Chondrocyte ferroptosis induced by erastin or IL-1β was rescued to varying degrees by ASP, Fer-1, or DFO in vitro. The anti-ferroptotic effect of ASP was related to Nrf2 nuclear transfer. In the rat joints, both DFO and ASP alleviated the cartilage damage induced by DMM or erastin. In summary, Chondrocyte ferroptosis plays a key role in OA progression, and ASP can partially rescue chondrocyte ferroptosis through the Nrf2-SLC7A11-GPX4 axis, supporting the view that ASP is an excellent inhibitor of ferroptosis, its inhibition of ferroptosis provides a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of OA.
BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF THE SCIENTIFIC LITERATURE ON MENINGIOMAS WITH CALCIFICATION
Authors: Denysenko Anastasiya P. , Moskalenko Roman A.
Published: May 2022

Meningiomas are the most common non-glial tumours of the central nervous system characterized by pathological biomineralization. The work aimed to conduct bibliometric analysis and systematize data on the prevalence, etiology, morphology and main trends in the study of meningiomas with calcification.
The authors searched for information on meningiomas in electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar for the past 25 years by the key terms such as meningiomas, calcifications, and psammoma bodies. For bibliometric analysis, the authors used an online platform to monitor and analyze international research using visualization tools and modern citation metrics SciVal (Scopus) and a tool for building and visualizing bibliometric networks VOSviewer.
Pathological biomineralization is manifested through the formation of psammoma bodies, and the main mineral component is calcium hydroxyapatite. Although calcification is likely to play a protective role and be a favourable prognostic feature, it should be considered when choosing surgical tactics. There is also the problem of closing the defects of the dura mater with the help of biological and synthetic transplants.
According to the bibliometric analysis of scientific literature on meningiomas and the phenomena of pathological biomineralization in them, we found that the number of publications on this topic had increased significantly over the past five years, the leading countries of origin are the United States, Japan and China. When researching the array of Scopus database publications using SciVal tools, the problem of meningioma calcification was divided into 61 topics and 24 thematic clusters, the vast majority of which belonged to medicine and biology and materials science.
According to the results of bibliometric analysis of 678 publications in the Scopus database by keywords "calcification" and "meningioma", they can be divided into seven thematic clusters and four chronological stages. Despite the prevalence of meningioma calcification, there is currently no fundamental idea of ​​the etiology and pathogenesis of this process. Studying the morphological features of meningiomas with calcification can help improve the diagnosis and treatment of the central nervous system tumours.
Shear Behaviour of Fiber Reinforced Concrete Beams Using Steel and Polypropylene Fiber
Authors: Ramkumar S.
Published: May 2022

Abstract. The experimental study provides a series of tests for characterizing the structural behavior of fibre reinforced concrete beams subjected to shear loads. The paper involves usage of 2 types of fibers - polypropylene and steel fiber. The work suggests that the shear cracking resistance of the materials used are significantly improved by the fibers. The fibers reduced the crack width to about one quarter of the width in the shear-reinforced girders. Reliance on steel fibres increases the ductility of concrete. Adding steel fibres to concrete improves its post-tensile cracking behaviour. Shear strength is increased with the increase in fiber aspect ratio and fiber volume fraction. The concrete beams are casted for the size of 150 mm x 250 mm x 2100 mm. The behavior of fiber reinforced concrete beams for the addition of 0.4 percentage of fibers in both PFRC and SFRC under loading condition were observed and the load carrying capacity was increased compared to reinforced concrete.
Experimental Study on Strength of Concrete using Glass Fiber
Authors: Rajendhiran K.
Published: May 2022

Abstract. Plain concrete retains veritably low tensile strength, limited rigidity and little resistance to cracking. Cracks are innately present in concrete and their poor tensile strength is due to propagation of similar micro-crack filaments when added at certain chance in the concrete to ameliorate the strain parcels as well as crack resistance, to rigidity as flexure strength and durability. Substantly, the studies and exploration of fiber corroborating concrete has been diverted to sword filaments. In recent times, glass filaments have also become available which are free from erosion problems associated with sword filaments. In this design, examination was conducted using glass fiber with concrete. Anti crack, hyperactive dissipation, alkali resistance glass fiber of periphery 14 microns, having an aspect ratio of 857 were employed in probabilities, varying from 0.33 to 1 chance weight in concrete and the parcels of this fiber corroborated concretelike contraction,flexure strength, durability,and tensile strength was studied.
Investigation on Strength Properties of Concrete using Marble Powder for Ecofriendly Environment
Authors: Ashwathi R.
Published: May 2022

Abstract. The development of a country is well exhibited through its infrastructure and technology, where civil engineering plays an influencing role in the development of a nation. In the field of construction, concrete is the major material that is used for building purpose. Particularly, natural aggregates are involved in making concrete sound better. The natural aggregates are getting diminished due to its extensive practice. If the same situation prolongs, the natural aggregate gets extinct. This paper majorly focuses on making the environment better and in order to achieve sustainability and to preserve the environment, marble power is employed as partial material in the place of fine aggregate. On the other side, it aims at attaining the strength properties using M20 grade without any compromise. The test results clearly exhibits that incorporation of marble waste in making concrete is eco friendly as well as economical.
Development of Sustainable Bricks by Utilizing Vermicompost as an Alternate Material – A Waste Created Brick
Authors: Karthigai Priya P.
Published: May 2022

Abstract. Many different types of wastes are being generated on a daily basis which includes household waste, industrial waste, hazardous waste, construction and demolition waste etc. This generation of waste has increased enormously, and it needs to be considered as a prominent problem, as the waste management and waste disposal is not being done properly. Thus, it will lead to environmental degradation and pollution. On the other hand, over utilization of materials for construction activities leads to its extinguishing. Both scenarios will pose a threat to the environment. So, this study is carried out by utilizing vermicompost as a replacement material for red soil in the manufacturing of clay bricks. Initially, the physical properties of the raw materials are studied and the brick specimens are casted by varying vermicompost at 5, 10, 15 & 20% for red soil and they are tested for compressive strength, water absorption, loss on ignition. Among the replacements done, 10% of vermicompost for red soil gave higher strength to the bricks which is 6.23 N/mm2 higher than the control specimen. The water absorption for all the trials is found to be less than 20% as per IS 3495 part 2. The loss in weight of the bricks due to ignition is less than 15% for all the specimens manufactured. Therefore, the utilization of vermicompost will reduce the waste disposal considerably and also the cost of the bricks can be minimally reduced as waste is being incorporated in it.
Empirical Modeling on Swell Pressure of Clay using Index Properties
Authors: Jeevanantham V.
Published: May 2022

Abstract. Expansive soils undergo volume expansion, when it gains moisture content. Light structures constructed on this type of soil will be lifted by the upward swell pressure. Swelling characteristics decides the degree of safety of structures resting on expansive soil strata. Predicting the swell pressure of the soil consumes nearly 5 days of time (variable with respect to soil potential) in the laboratory as well as needs expensive testing setup. In our study, a correlation is proposed to develop for swell pressure using the index properties of soils namely liquid limit and plastic limit, which shall be assessed at the laboratory relatively short period of time. Swelling Pressure tests by Free Swell Method are performed on dynamically compacted 20 remolded soil samples collected within Coimbatore Corporation limit. The study area is between the four coordinates of 11008'49.25'' N 76053'36.28'' E, 11012’05.58’’ N76055'57.84'' E, 10059'16.52'' N 76052'17.47'' E, 10057'00.59'' N 76057'43.71'' E. Laboratory experimental data given as input in MATLAB gives satisfactory results and correlation is extracted from curve fitting method.
Investigating the Possibility of Using Clay and Fly Ash in the Production of Geopolymer Mortar
Authors: Manjunath N.V.
Published: May 2022

Abstract. The concept polymer concrete has numerous advantages over the convention concrete similarly in mortar also which uses reactive silica presented in the pozzolanic materials which is activated using alkaline materials. This paper focused on the Geopolymer mortar with fly ash and clay as raw materials and M-Sand for fine aggregate instead of river sand. Different combinations of mixtures were prepared and compared with ordinary cement mortar. The objective of this research is to identify the properties of different combinations of geopolymer mortars with conventional cement mortar, in which the fine aggregate sourced from riverbeds is replaced by Fine aggregate manufactured using Crushing stones and testing it for compressive strength, water absorption, residual alkalinity, and acid resistance. Fly ash- clay based geopolymer shows good acid resistance and shows less reduction in weight and compressive strength than ordinary cement mortar. Permeability of geopolymer mortar is less that of ordinary cement mortar. Alkalinity of geopolymer mortar is 4-20 % higher than that of ordinary cement mortar. Fly ash- clay based geopolymer has excellent compressive strength (75.7% for red clay and 52.6% for fire clay) than the conventional cement concrete and is suitable for structural applications.
Performance Assessment of Self Compacting Concrete Incorporating Mineral Admixtures
Authors: Ranjitham M.
Published: May 2022

Abstract. Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) is a newly constructed which need to be processed to be installed and assembled. It can discharge beneath its own weight, complete formwork, and achieve complete integration, at the same time in the existence of profusion reinforcement. SCC is a variety of high-strength concrete and expands to form devoid of the demand for mechanical vibrations. SCC is a non-removable concrete by its weight. The importance of concrete that you assemble is that it retains all the durability and characteristics of the concrete, meeting the expected operational requirements. Another way to diminish the expense of concrete for that is to use Mineral Admixtures (MA) such as Ground Granulated Blast furnace Slag (GGBS) Silica Fume (SF), and Fly Ash (FA), during mixing. The quantity of Portland cement was decreased by using mineral admixtures, expense of compaction will be competitive especially reason for this while using the mineral mixtures are waste or industrial product. In addition, the application of MA in the production of composite concrete not only provides economic benefits but also reduces the temperature of the hydration. The amalgamation of mineral ingredients additionally excludes the need for viscosity-improving chemical admixtures. Low water/cement (W/C) ratio which indicates to superior durability and exceptional mechanical integrity of the building. This experimental research paper familiarizes and reviewing the strength properties such as compression test, flexural strength and the split strength of SCC with different mineral compounds and compare the properties with Control Mix (CM) and workability tests of various mineral compounds (slump, L-box, U-box, and T50) also studied. From the Experimental investigation concluded that the impact of mineral mixtures on performance like compressive strength values, split tensile strength values and flexural strength values were increases as per European Federation of manufacturers for special concrete.
Feasibility Study on Utilization of Compost as a Partial Replacement of Fine Aggregate in Conventional Concrete
Authors: Vanitha S.
Published: May 2022

Abstract. Solid waste management is the biggest challenge due to population growth. Lack of awareness about onsite processing of solid waste implies production of huge quantity of solid waste which is unmanageable. In this study an attempt is made to utilize the degraded solid waste called compost which is collected from municipal site and is used as a filler material in concrete. Compost is replaced for fine aggregate with 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% in conventional concrete. The compressive strength results at the age of 28 days are 30.5, 19.8, 16.8 and 18.2 N/mm2 respectively. Result indicates 5% replacement of compost is effective in concrete. The concrete specimen made with compost (CVC) and conventional concrete (CC) are exposed to an elevated temperature of 200°C, 400°C, 600°C and 800°C respectively. Result indicates the conventional concrete shows 5.3%, 6.1%, 15% and 24% compressive strength loss whereas 5% compost replaced specimen shows 10%, 11 %, 23.2% and 58.2% respectively. At an elevated temperature, both conventional concrete and compost-based concrete lost its strength. The reason could be thermal incompatibility between the aggregates and concrete. However, the loss of compressive strength is almost double in CVC than CC. The possible reason could be volatile compounds may evaporate in CVC at high temperature. The weight lost is observed in CC varies from 2.4 % to 4.5 % whereas CVC shows 6% to 7% from 200°C to 800°C. Weight lost is 3% more in CVC specimen than CC specimen.
HelperFriend, a Serious Game for Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors in Children: Design and Pilot Study
Authors: Espinosa-Curiel Ismael Edrein , Pozas-Bogarin Edgar Efrén , Hernández-Arvizu Maryleidi , Navarro-Jiménez Maria Elena , Delgado-Pérez Edwin Emeth , Martínez-Miranda Juan , Pérez-Espinosa Humberto
Published: May 2022

Background

The use of health games is a promising strategy for educating and promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors among children.

Objective

We aimed to describe the design and development of a serious game, called HelperFriend, and evaluate its feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects in children in a pilot study. HelperFriend is a vicarious experiential video game designed to promote 3 lifestyle behaviors among young children: physical activity, healthy eating, and socioemotional wellness.

Methods

Participants aged 8 to 11 years were recruited from an elementary school and randomized to receive a healthy lifestyle behavior educational talk (control) or play six 30-minute sessions with HelperFriend (intervention). Assessments were conducted at baseline (T0) and after the intervention (ie, 4 weeks) (T1). The primary outcome was gain in knowledge. The secondary outcomes were intention to conduct healthy behaviors, dietary intake, and player satisfaction.

Results

Knowledge scores of intervention group participants increased from T0 to T1 for physical activity (t14=2.01, P=.03), healthy eating (t14=3.14, P=.003), and socioemotional wellness (t14=2.75, P=.008). In addition, from T0 to T1, the intervention group improved their intention to perform physical activity (t14=2.82, P=.006), healthy eating (t14=3.44, P=.002), and socioemotional wellness (t14=2.65, P=.009); and there was a reduction in their intake of 13 unhealthy foods. HelperFriend was well received by intervention group.

Conclusions

HelperFriend appears to be feasible and acceptable for young children. In addition, this game seems to be a viable tool to help improve the knowledge, the intention to conduct healthy behaviors, and the dietary intake of children; however, a well-powered randomized controlled trial is needed to prove the efficacy of HelperFriend.
Acceptability, Adaptability, and Feasibility of a Novel Computer-Based Virtual Counselor–Delivered Alcohol Intervention: Focus Group and In-depth Interview Study Among Adults With HIV or Tuberculosis in Indian Clinical Settings
Authors: Suryavanshi Nishi , Dhumal Gauri , Cox Samyra R , Sangle Shashikala , DeLuca Andrea , Santre Manjeet , Gupta Amita , Chander Geetanjali , Hutton Heidi
Published: May 2022

Background

Unhealthy alcohol use is associated with increased morbidity and mortality among persons with HIV and tuberculosis (TB). Computer-based interventions (CBIs) can reduce unhealthy alcohol use, are scalable, and may improve outcomes among patients with HIV or TB.

Objective

We assessed the acceptability, adaptability, and feasibility of a novel CBI for alcohol reduction in HIV and TB clinical settings in Pune, India.

Methods

We conducted 10 in-depth interviews with persons with alcohol use disorder (AUD): TB (6/10), HIV (2/10), or HIV-TB co-infected (1/10) selected using convenience sampling method, no HIV or TB disease (1/10), 1 focus group with members of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA; n=12), and 2 focus groups with health care providers (HCPs) from a tertiary care hospital (n=22). All participants reviewed and provided feedback on a CBI for AUD delivered by a 3D virtual counselor. Qualitative data were analyzed using structured framework analysis.

Results

The majority (9/10) of in-depth interview respondents were male, with median age 42 (IQR 38-45) years. AA focus group participants were all male (12/12), and HCP focus group participants were predominantly female (n=15). Feedback was organized into 3 domains: (1) virtual counselor acceptability, (2) intervention adaptability, and (3) feasibility of the CBI intervention in clinic settings. Overall, in-depth interview participants found the virtual counselor to be acceptable and felt comfortable honestly answering alcohol-related questions. All focus group participants preferred a human virtual counselor to an animal virtual counselor so as to potentially increase CBI engagement. Additionally, interaction with a live human counselor would further enhance the program’s effectiveness by providing more flexible interaction. HCP focus group participants noted the importance of adding information on the effects of alcohol on HIV and TB outcomes because patients were not viewed as appreciating these linkages. For local adaptation, more information on types of alcoholic drinks, additional drinking triggers, motivators, and activities to substitute for drinking alcohol were suggested by all focus group participants. Intervention duration (about 20 minutes) and pace were deemed appropriate. HCPs reported that the CBI provides systematic, standardized counseling. All focus group and in-depth interview participants reported that the CBI could be implemented in Indian clinical settings with assistance from HIV or TB program staff.

Conclusions

With cultural tailoring to patients with HIV and TB in Indian clinical care settings, a virtual counselor–delivered alcohol intervention is acceptable and appears feasible to implement, particularly if coupled with person-delivered counseling.
HelperFriend, a Serious Game for Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors in Children: Design and Pilot Study (Preprint)
Authors: Espinosa-Curiel Ismael Edrein , Pozas-Bogarin Edgar Efrén , Hernández-Arvizu Maryleidi , Navarro-Jiménez Maria Elena , Delgado-Pérez Edwin Emeth , Martínez-Miranda Juan , Pérez-Espinosa Humberto
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

The use of health games is a promising strategy for educating and promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors among children.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to describe the design and development of a serious game, called HelperFriend, and evaluate its feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effects in children in a pilot study. HelperFriend is a vicarious experiential video game designed to promote 3 lifestyle behaviors among young children: physical activity, healthy eating, and socioemotional wellness.

METHODS

Participants aged 8 to 11 years were recruited from an elementary school and randomized to receive a healthy lifestyle behavior educational talk (control) or play six 30-minute sessions with HelperFriend (intervention). Assessments were conducted at baseline (T0) and after the intervention (ie, 4 weeks) (T1). The primary outcome was gain in knowledge. The secondary outcomes were intention to conduct healthy behaviors, dietary intake, and player satisfaction.

RESULTS

Knowledge scores of intervention group participants increased from T0 to T1 for physical activity (t14=2.01, P=.03), healthy eating (t14=3.14, P=.003), and socioemotional wellness (t14=2.75, P=.008). In addition, from T0 to T1, the intervention group improved their intention to perform physical activity (t14=2.82, P=.006), healthy eating (t14=3.44, P=.002), and socioemotional wellness (t14=2.65, P=.009); and there was a reduction in their intake of 13 unhealthy foods. HelperFriend was well received by intervention group.

CONCLUSIONS

HelperFriend appears to be feasible and acceptable for young children. In addition, this game seems to be a viable tool to help improve the knowledge, the intention to conduct healthy behaviors, and the dietary intake of children; however, a well-powered randomized controlled trial is needed to prove the efficacy of HelperFriend.
The Effect of Dissemination Pathways on Uptake and Relative Costs for a Transdiagnostic, Self-guided Internet Intervention for Reducing Depression, Anxiety, and Suicidal Ideation: Comparative Implementation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Batterham Philip J , Gulliver Amelia , Kurz Ella , Farrer Louise M , Vis Christiaan , Schuurmans Josien , Calear Alison L
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Self-guided web-based programs are effective; however, inadequate implementation of these programs limits their potential to provide effective and low-cost treatment for common mental health problems at scale. There is a lack of research examining optimal methods for the dissemination of web-based programs in the community.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the uptake, reach, relative costs, and adherence associated with 3 community-based pathways for delivering a low-intensity web-based transdiagnostic mental health program. The 3 dissemination pathways were social media advertising, advertising in general practice, and advertising in pharmacies.

METHODS

Participants were recruited on the web, from general practices, or from community pharmacies; completed a screener for psychological distress; and were offered the 4-week FitMindKit program—a 12-module psychotherapeutic intervention. Uptake was defined as the number of participants who enrolled in the web-based program; reach was defined as the rate of uptake per exposure; and costs were calculated based on staff time, equipment, and advertising. Adherence was assessed as the number of modules of FitMindKit completed by the participants.

RESULTS

Uptake comprised 1014 participants who were recruited through the 3 dissemination pathways: on the web (991/1014, 97.73%), in general practice (16/1014, 1.58%), and in pharmacy (7/1014, 0.69%). Reach was highest for social media: 1 in every 50 people exposed to web-based advertising took up the intervention compared with 1 in every 441 in general practitioner clinics and 1 in every 1708 in pharmacies. The dissemination cost was US $4.87 per user on social media, US $557 per user for general practitioner clinics, and US $1272 per user for pharmacy dissemination. No significant differences in adherence were observed between the conditions, whereas all pathways showed an underrepresentation of men and linguistic diversity.

CONCLUSIONS

The web-based dissemination pathway was the most efficient and cost-effective for delivering a self-guided internet-based mental health program to people in the community. More research is needed to identify how best to engage men and those with culturally diverse backgrounds in web-based interventions.

CLINICALTRIAL

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12618001688279; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=376113
The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Mental Health Among Older Adults From Different Communities in Chengmai County, China: Cross-sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Xu Zhimin , Ghisi Gabriela Lima de Melo , Cui Lixian , Zeng Fang , Zhou Xiaohai , Yue Zhongtang , Chen Hanbei
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Due to the strict measures employed to control the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the extent of COVID-19 goes beyond morbidity and mortality and affects individuals’ mental health in the long term.

OBJECTIVE

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and its contributing factors among older people in Chengmai County, China.

METHODS

A web-based survey was administered through WeChat between March and April 2020. Older people (ie, >50 years) from local and foreign community groups completed the survey, which included items on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, the 7-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD-7), and the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Independent t tests and a multiple linear regression analysis were used to investigate differences between anxiety and depression and the factors associated with these symptoms across the 2 groups.

RESULTS

Overall, 469 responses were received; 119 responses (25.4%) were from male participants and 202 (43.1%) were from those older than 65 years. Of the 469 responses, 245 (52.2%) were from the local community group and 224 (47.8%) from the foreign group. The mean GAD-7 (P=.003) scores were significantly higher in the local group. Anxiety was significantly more present in the local group (61/245, 24.9% compared to 35/224, 15.6% in the foreign group; P=.01). A total of 6 respondents presented severe anxiety and 2 presented severe depression.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that both community groups of older adults from the Chinese “Hometown of Longevity” presented anxiety or depressive disorders during the first months of the pandemic. Local community groups presented significantly more mental health disorders, which were associated with a history of previous psychological disorders.