bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prospective Spatiotemporal Cluster Detection Using SaTScan: Tutorial for Designing and Fine-Tuning a System to Detect Reportable Communicable Disease Outbreaks
Authors: Levin-Rector Alison , Kulldorff Martin , Peterson Eric R , Hostovich Scott , Greene Sharon K
Published: February 2024

Staff at public health departments have few training materials to learn how to design and fine-tune systems to quickly detect acute, localized, community-acquired outbreaks of infectious diseases. Since 2014, the Bureau of Communicable Disease at the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has analyzed reportable communicable diseases daily using SaTScan. SaTScan is a free software that analyzes data using scan statistics, which can detect increasing disease activity without a priori specification of temporal period, geographic location, or size. The Bureau of Communicable Disease’s systems have quickly detected outbreaks of salmonellosis, legionellosis, shigellosis, and COVID-19. This tutorial details system design considerations, including geographic and temporal data aggregation, study period length, inclusion criteria, whether to account for population size, network location file setup to account for natural boundaries, probability model (eg, space-time permutation), day-of-week effects, minimum and maximum spatial and temporal cluster sizes, secondary cluster reporting criteria, signaling criteria, and distinguishing new clusters versus ongoing clusters with additional events. We illustrate how to support health equity by minimizing analytic exclusions of patients with reportable diseases (eg, persons experiencing homelessness who are unsheltered) and accounting for purely spatial patterns, such as adjusting nonparametrically for areas with lower access to care and testing for reportable diseases. We describe how to fine-tune the system when the detected clusters are too large to be of interest or when signals of clusters are delayed, missed, too numerous, or false. We demonstrate low-code techniques for automating analyses and interpreting results through built-in features on the user interface (eg, patient line lists, temporal graphs, and dynamic maps), which became newly available with the July 2022 release of SaTScan version 10.1. This tutorial is the first comprehensive resource for health department staff to design and maintain a reportable communicable disease outbreak detection system using SaTScan to catalyze field investigations as well as develop intuition for interpreting results and fine-tuning the system. While our practical experience is limited to monitoring certain reportable diseases in a dense, urban area, we believe that most recommendations are generalizable to other jurisdictions in the United States and internationally. Additional analytic technical support for detecting outbreaks would benefit state, tribal, local, and territorial public health departments and the populations they serve.
Support for Chronic Pain Management for Breast Cancer Survivors Through Novel Digital Health Ecosystems: Pilot Usability Study of the PainRELife Mobile App (Preprint)
Authors: Masiero Marianna , Filipponi Chiara , Fragale Elisa , Pizzoli Silvia Francesca Maria , Munzone Elisabetta , Milani Alessandra , Guido Luca , Guardamagna Vittorio , Marceglia Sara , Prandin Roberto , Prenassi Marco , Caruso Annamaria , Manzelli Vania , Savino Chiara , Conti Costanza , Rizzi Federica , Casalino Alice , Candiani Giulia , Memini Francesca , Chiveri Luca , Vitali Andrea Luigi , Corbo Massimo , Grasso Roberto , Didier Florence , Ferrucci Roberta , Pravettoni Gabriella
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Chronic pain is one of the most common and critical long-term effects of breast cancer. Digital health technologies enhance the management of chronic pain by monitoring physical and psychological health status and supporting pain self-management and patient treatment decisions throughout the clinical pathway.

OBJECTIVE

This pilot study aims to evaluate patients’ experiences, including usability, with a novel digital integrated health ecosystem for chronic pain named PainRELife. The sample included patients with breast cancer during survivorship. The PainRELife ecosystem comprises a cloud technology platform interconnected with electronic health records and patients' devices to gather integrated health care data.

METHODS

We enrolled 25 patients with breast cancer (mean age 47.12 years) experiencing pain. They were instructed to use the PainRELife mobile app for 3 months consecutively. The Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) was used to evaluate usability. Furthermore, pain self-efficacy and participation in treatment decisions were evaluated. The study received ethical approval (R1597/21-IEO 1701) from the Ethical Committee of the European Institute of Oncology.

RESULTS

The MARS subscale scores were medium to high (range: 3.31-4.18), and the total app quality score was 3.90. Patients with breast cancer reported reduced pain intensity at 3 months, from a mean of 5 at T0 to a mean of 3.72 at T2 (P=.04). The total number of times the app was accessed was positively correlated with pain intensity at 3 months (P=.03). The engagement (P=.03), information (P=.04), and subjective quality (P=.007) subscales were positively correlated with shared decision-making. Furthermore, participants with a lower pain self-efficacy at T2 (mean 40.83) used the mobile app more than participants with a higher pain self-efficacy (mean 48.46; P=.057).

CONCLUSIONS

The data collected in this study highlight that digital health technologies, when developed using a patient-driven approach, might be valuable tools for increasing participation in clinical care by patients with breast cancer, permitting them to achieve a series of key clinical outcomes and improving quality of life. Digital integrated health ecosystems might be important tools for improving ongoing monitoring of physical status, psychological burden, and socioeconomic issues during the cancer survivorship trajectory.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/41216
The Experience of Cancer-Related Cognitive Impairment Across Common Cancers: Protocol for a Qualitative Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Ibrar Maryam , Rai Harleen Kaur , Main Ashleigh , McCartney Haruno , Maguire Roma , Rodriguez Mario Alfredo Parra
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) is commonly experienced by patients with cancer during treatment, and 35% of patients experience cognitive impairment after treatment completion. Impairments in memory, attention, executive functioning, and information processing speed are most reported and often negatively impact daily functioning and quality of life (QoL). Despite the large scale of reports, this adverse side effect is underinvestigated across common cancer types, and there is a lack of insight into the CRCI experience.

OBJECTIVE

This qualitative synthesis aims to explore the evidence in relation to the experience of CRCI across common cancers. It also aims to understand the prevalence of CRCI across various cancer types, cognitive domains, and its impact on QoL and functional ability.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of databases, including PubMed, American Psychological Association PsycINFO, CINAHL, and Scopus, will be conducted. A total of 2 independent reviewers will screen titles and abstracts for inclusion, followed by full-text screening. A third reviewer will resolve any arising conflicts in the process of data screening and inclusion. Subsequently, data extraction and quality assessment using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool will be conducted. The results will be analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

This review is part of a PhD program funded in January 2023. The review commenced in June 2023, and data analysis is currently in progress. The qualitative synthesis will explore the experiences of CRCI across common cancers. The included studies are expected to report on numerous cancer types such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, leukemia, and lung cancer. The included study types are most likely to be interviews, focus groups, and surveys with qualitative components.

CONCLUSIONS

This protocol highlights the need for a qualitative synthesis that will explore the experience of CRCI across common cancer types. It will provide valuable insight into the lived experience of CRCI and the cognitive domains that may be disproportionately affected. There is a growing demand for further management interventions and clinically tested treatments of CRCI and the qualitative exploration of patient experience is crucial for their development. This qualitative synthesis will inform future developments and will contribute to improving QoL after cancer.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/56888
Generative AI in Medicine: Pioneering Progress or Perpetuating Historical Inequities? (Preprint)
Authors: Sutera Philip , Bhatia Rohini , Lin Timothy , Chang Leslie , Brown Andrea , Jagsi Reshma
Published: February 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

In a pilot experiment, we utilized AI to generate 100 photographs of physicians in 19 medical subspecialties and compared these photographs to the existing and incoming medical specialty workforce. Our work demonstrates that generative AI has a tendency to under represent women in common specialties, and thus the utilization of this tool in the future must be viewed with caution and a lens of known historical bias.
Codeveloping an Online Resource for People Bereaved by Suicide: Mixed Methods User-Centered Study (Preprint)
Authors: Leaune Edouard , Bislimi Kushtrim , Lau-Taï Pauline , Rouzé Héloïse , Chalancon Benoit , Lestienne Laurène , Grandgenevre Pierre , Morgiève Margot , Laplace Nathalie , Vaiva Guillaume , Haesebaert Julie , Poulet Emmanuel
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Although suicide bereavement is highly distressing and is associated with an increased risk of suicidal behaviors and mental and physical health impairments, those bereaved by suicide encounter difficulties accessing support. Digital resources offer new forms of support for bereaved people. However, digital resources dedicated to those bereaved by suicide are still limited.

OBJECTIVE

This paper aimed to develop and implement an evidence-based, innovative, and adaptive online resource for people bereaved by suicide, based on their needs and expectations.

METHODS

We performed a mixed methods, participatory, user-centered study seeking to build resources from the perspectives of people bereaved by suicide and professionals or volunteers working in the field of postvention. We used the Information System Research framework, which uses a three-stage research cycle, including (1) the relevance cycle, (2) the design cycle, and (3) the rigor cycle, and the Design Science Research framework.

RESULTS

A total of 478 people participated in the study, including 451 people bereaved by suicide, 8 members of charities, and 19 mental health professionals working in the field of postvention. The development stage of the resource lasted 18 months, from October 2021 to March 2023. A total of 9 focus groups, 1 online survey, 30 usability tests, and 30 semistructured interviews were performed. A website for people bereaved by suicide named “espoir-suicide” was developed that includes (1) evidence-based information on suicide prevention and bereavement, (2) testimonies of people bereaved by suicide, (3) a delayed chat to ask questions on suicide and bereavement to a specialized team of mental health professionals, and (4) an interactive nationwide resource directory. The mean system usability score was 90.3 out of 100 for 30 participants, with 93% (n=28) of them having a rating above 80. Since the implementation of espoir-suicide in March 2023, a total of 19,400 connections have been recorded, 117 local resources have been registered nationwide, and 73 questions have been posted in the chat.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a mixed methods, participatory, user-centered design allowed us to implement an evidence-based, innovative, and functional website for people bereaved by suicide that was highly relevant for fulfilling the needs and expectations of French people bereaved by suicide.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.3389/fpsyt.2021.770154
Effectiveness of digitally delivered lifestyle interventions on depression, anxiety, stress and wellbeing: a systematic review and meta-analysis. (Preprint)
Authors: Brinsley Jacinta , O'Connor Edward J , Singh Ben , McKeon Grace , Curtis Rachel , Ferguson Ty , Gosse Georgia , Willems Iris , Marent Pieter-Jan , Szeto Kimberley , Firth Joseph , Maher Carol
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

There is a growing body of robust evidence to show that lifestyle behaviours influence mental health outcomes. Technology offers an accessible and cost-effective implementation method, yet the effectiveness of interventions to date has been specific to the mode of delivery, population or behaviour.

OBJECTIVE

This review aimed to comprehensively evaluate the effectiveness of all digitally delivered lifestyle interventions for improving symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and wellbeing.

METHODS

A systematic search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, Emcare, PsycINFO and Scopus was conducted to identify studies published between January 2013 and January 2023. Randomised controlled trials of digital lifestyle (physical activity, sleep, diet) interventions for adults that reported a validated measure of depression, anxiety, stress or wellbeing and were published in English were included. Data were independently extracted and appraised using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine 2011 Levels of Evidence by multiple authors. Inverse-variance random-effects meta-analyses were used for data analysis. Subgroup analyses were conducted to determine whether results differed based on the target lifestyle behaviour, delivery method, digital features, design features or population characteristics. The main outcome was changes in symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress and wellbeing measured by validated self-report of clinician administered outcomes from pre- to post-intervention.

RESULTS

Of 14357 studies identified, 61 studies were included. Digital lifestyle interventions had a significant small-to-medium effect on depression (SMD -0.37, p <0.001), a small effect on anxiety (SMD -0.29, p <0.001), and stress (SMD -0.17, p <0.05), and no effect on wellbeing (SMD 0.14, p =0.15). Subgroup analyses generally suggested that effects were similar regardless of the delivery method or features used, the duration and frequency of the intervention, the population, or the lifestyle behaviour targeted.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, these results indicate that delivering lifestyle interventions via a range of digital methods can have significant positive effects on depression, anxiety and stress for a broad range of populations, while effects on wellbeing are unclear.

CLINICALTRIAL

This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023428908).
Aeroponics System Using IoT for Smart Farming
Authors: Vadivel Mr. S.
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Aeroponics is a new technology to make a high yield in less land space without using soil. These types of techniques are used in many countries and gain the high profit. But In our country there is still in a nascent stage. The main drawbacks are that the setup of a growing field is more complicated. It is so expensive comparing the normal agriculture. If any maintenance error, all the plants are spoil. Aeroponics is highly susceptible to power outages. People must have a certain level of technical knowledge. So the people are not taking the risk. These are the reasons why people are not coming forward to choose aeroponics. The merits of aeroponics is not possible to take over the diseases in plants and no need to take any pesticides and fertilizers. This project is going to be monitoring the plants growth, measuring the temperature levels and maintain the mist environment. Using aeroponics with the help of Internet of Things is possible to rectify the limitations. It is possible to monitoring the work and maintain the platform. If any error happening in the Platform immediately communicate to the user through the SMS and solve the problem instantly. This is possible to grow plant and get high yields. So the users are do not worry about the plant and the profit is also be a high.
A Review on Medicinal and Pharmacological Importance of Roselle Hibiscus sabdariffa L
Authors: Chavan Kunal , V Kamble Hemant , A Waghmare Santosh , Ashlesha Gaikwad
Published: February 2024

Abstract: Roselle, Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (family Malvaceae) is one of the most important and popular medicinal plants. Roselle is native from India to Malaysia, where it is commonly cultivated, and must have been carried at an early date to Africa. It is known as karkadeh in Asia, Pundi palle in South Asia, isapa in Africa Florida Cranberry in America. Recent researches & studies shown that the use of Roselle plant in medical, food & industrial fields also. It is used in cold &warm drinks, jams & jellies. Its use as emollient, laxative, antioxidant, nutritive, antihypertensive, antifungal agent. Rosella helps in digestion, refreshing, moisturizing & used in treatment of cancer
“Aqui a vale é o Estado”: neoextrativismo e autoritarismo na cidade, no campo e na floresta na região de Carajás
Authors: Castriota Rodrigo
Published: February 2024

Neste artigo apresento formas neoextrativistas de autoritarismo na região de Carajás, no sudeste paraense, que dependem de uma extensa influência corporativa nas múltiplas escalas de governança estatal e nos múltiplos poderes do Estado. A partir de dados secundários e de pesquisa qualitativa realizada em Canaã dos Carajás, discuto a atuação da Vale no município após a instalação do Projeto Ferro Carajás S11D. Apresento essas formas contemporâneas de autoritarismo neoextrativista em três geografias distintas: cidade, campo e floresta. A primeira é baseada na produção do espaço urbano a partir dos recursos da Compensação Financeira pela Exploração de Recursos Minerais (Cfem) e das chamadas políticas de responsabilidade social corporativa; a segunda se refere aos mecanismos de despossessão de vilas e acampamentos sem-terra na zona rural do município; e a terceira trata da operacionalização da floresta através de unidades de conservação e da legislação ambiental.
The impact of Google Maps application on the digital economy
Authors: Phuangsuwan Penpim , Siripipatthanakul Supaprawat , Limna Pongsakorn , Pariwongkhuntorn Nuttharin
Published: February 2024

Google Maps is indispensable for helping tourists navigate Thailand, which is a popular tourist destination. It includes comprehensive maps, points of interest, and lodging, dining, and attraction recommendations. It contributes to Thailand’s tourism industry’s growth by enhancing the overall travel experience (Amornvivat et al., 2017; The Nation, 2023). This study explains the Google Maps application’s impact on Thailand’s digital economy. This research adopted interviews with six Google Maps consumers and six business owners. Content analysis and NVivo were used to analyse the data. The results show that the Google Map application simplifies locating businesses, making reservations, and placing orders for users. Additionally, Google Maps recommends nearby businesses that may interest the user based on their location and preferences. Through mobile commerce and local recommendations, it encourages users to explore new businesses and stimulates local spending. Google Maps has had a significant impact on the digital economy in Thailand. It helps businesses increase visibility, interact with customers, and attract foot traffic to their physical locations. It also facilitates mobile commerce, provides local recommendations, and aids the tourism industry. Google Maps contributes to digital domain economic growth, increased sales, and enhanced user experiences by connecting users with pertinent businesses and facilitating efficient navigation.
The Spread of the Hunga Tonga H2O Plume in the Middle Atmosphere Over the First Two Years Since Eruption
Authors: Nedoluha Gerald E. , Gomez R. Michael , Boyd Ian , Neal Helen , Allen Douglas Ray , Lambert Alyn
Published: February 2024

The eruption of Hunga Tonga in January 2022 injected a large amount of
water into the stratosphere. Satellite measurements from Aura Microwave
Limb Sounder (MLS) show that this water vapor (H2O) has now spread
throughout the stratosphere and into the lower mesosphere, resulting in
an increase of >1 ppmv throughout most of this region.
Measurements from three ground-based Water Vapor Millimeter Wave
Spectrometer (WVMS) instruments and MLS are in good agreement, and show
that in 2023 there was more H2O in the lower mesosphere than at any time
since the WVMS measurements began in the 1990’s. At Table Mountain,
California all WVMS H2O measurements at 54 km since June 2023, and all
of the measurements from Mauna Loa, Hawaii, since the resumption of
measurements in September 2023, show larger mixing ratios than any
previous measurements. At 70 km several recent ~1 week
WVMS retrievals in the last few months show the largest anomalies ever
measured. The MLS measurements show that maximum H2O anomalies have
occurred throughout almost all of the stratosphere and lower mesosphere
since the eruption. As of November 2023, almost all of the
~140 Tg of water originally injected into the
stratosphere by the Hunga Tonga eruption remains in the middle
atmosphere at pressures below 83 hPa (altitudes above
~17 km). The eruption occurred during a period when
stratospheric H2O was already slightly elevated above the 2004-2021 MLS
average, and the November 2023 anomaly of ~160 Tg
represents ~15% of the total mass of H2O in this
region.
Astronomical calibration of the Ocean Anoxic Event 1b and its implications for the cause of mid-Cretaceous events: a multiproxy record
Authors: Ramos João Mauricio Figueiredo , Savian Jairo Francisco , Franco Daniel Ribeiro , Figueiredo Milene Freitas , Frontalini Fabrizio , Coccioni Rodolfo , Leandro Carolina Gonçalves , Giorgioni Martino , Vidal Paula H. C. P. , Fazio Gabriella , Jovane Luigi , Sabatino Nadia , Trindade Ricardo IF , Tedeschi Leonardo
Published: February 2024

Cyclostratigraphic analyses were performed on magnetic susceptibility
(MS), and elemental Ti and Fe series along the upper Aptian-lower Albian
interval of the Poggio le Guaine (PLG) core, a Cretaceous pelagic
succession in the Umbria-Marche Basin (central Italy). This interval
represents one the most detailed and complete sedimentary archives and
records oceanic perturbations associated with Oceanic Anoxic Event (OAE)
1b. The MS, Ti and Fe orbital control indicates a timespan of 2.68 Myr
for OAE 1b event (114.10 to 111.34 Ma) and short eccentricity cycles
played a key role, in controlling the amount of detrital input from
weathering during monsoonal periods. Our chronostratigraphic study also
provides age of 114.09 Ma for 113/Jacob, 113.25 Ma for Kilian, 112.67 Ma
as a central age of the Monte Nerone cluster, 111.70 Ma for Urbino and
111.37 Ma for Leenhardt subevents, and a timespan of ~20
kyr for 113/Jacob, 70 kyr for Kilian, 670 kyr for Monte Nerone cluster,
60 kyr for Urbino and 60 kyr for Leenhardt levels. This study provides
compelling evidence of the enormous potential C-isotope stratigraphy as
tie points for cyclostratigraphic studies and as a valuable way to
evaluate diachronism of bioevents. The organic-rich levels encompassing
OAE 1b event has particular characteristics resulting from the
combination of warm climate triggered by volcanic CO2 input, heavy
precipitation, intense weathering and rapid marine transgressions, which
leads the oceanic-atmospheric perturbations, acting as amplifiers of
orbital forcings paleoclimate changes, resulting in deoxygenation and
carbon burial during OAE 1b.
The nonlinear and distinct responses of ocean heat content and anthropogenic carbon to ice sheet freshwater discharge in a warming climate
Authors: Gorte Tessa , Lovenduski Nicole Suzanne , Nissen Cara , Lenaerts Jan Thérèse Maria , Weiss Jeffrey B
Published: February 2024

Anthropogenic climate change will drive extensive mass loss across both
the Antarctic (AIS) and Greenland Ice Sheets (GrIS), with the potential
for feedbacks on the global climate system, especially in polar regions.
Historically, the high latitude North Atlantic and Southern Ocean have
been the most critical regions for global anthropogenic heat and carbon
uptake, but our understanding of how this uptake will be altered by
future freshwater discharge is incomplete. Here, we assess each ice
sheet’s impact on the global ocean storage of anthropogenic heat and
carbon for a high-emission scenario over the
21$^{\textrm{st}}$ century using a coupled Earth
system model. Notably, combined AIS and GrIS freshwater engenders
distinct anthropogenic heat and carbon storage anomalies as the two
diagnostics respond disparately in the high latitude Southern Ocean and
North Atlantic. We explore the impact of contemporaneous mass loss from
both ice sheets on anthropogenic heat and carbon storage and quantify
the linear and nonlinear contributions of each ice sheet. We find that
GrIS mass loss exerts a primary control on the 21$^{st}$-century
evolution of both global oceanic heat and carbon storage, with AIS
impacts appearing after the 2080s. Non-linear impacts of simultaneous
ice sheets’ discharge have a non-negligible contribution to the
evolution of both heat and carbon storage. Further, anthropogenic heat
changes are realized more quickly in response to ice sheet discharge
than anthropogenic carbon. Our results highlight the need to incorporate
both ice sheets actively in climate models in order to accurately
project future global climate.
Berkeley-RWAWC: a new CYGNSS-based watermask unveils unique observations of seasonal dynamics in the Tropics
Authors: Pu Tianjiao , Gerlein-Safdi Cynthia , Xiong Ying , Li Mengze , Kort Eric A. , Bloom A. Anthony
Published: February 2024

The UC Berkeley Random Walk Algorithm WaterMask from CYGNSS
(Berkeley-RWAWC) is a new data product designed to address the
challenges of monitoring inundation in regions hindered by dense
vegetation and cloud cover as is the case in most of the Tropics. The
Cyclone Global Navigation Satellite System (CYGNSS) constellation
provides data with a higher temporal repeat frequency compared to
single-satellite systems, offering the potential for generating moderate
spatial resolution inundation maps with improved temporal resolution
while having the capability to penetrate clouds and vegetation. This
paper details the development of a computer vision algorithm for
inundation mapping over the entire CYGNSS domain (37.4Â°N to 37.4Â°S).
The unique reliance on CYGNSS data sets our method apart in the field,
highlighting CYGNSS’s indication of water existence. Berkeley-RWAWC
provides monthly, near-real-time inundation maps starting in August 2018
and across the CYGNSS latitude range, with a spatial resolution of
0.01Â° Ã— 0.01Â°. Here we present our workflow and parameterization
strategy, alongside a comparative analysis with established surface
water datasets (SWAMPS, WAD2M) in four regions: the Amazon Basin, the
Pantanal, the Sudd, and the Indo-Gangetic Plain. The comparisons reveal
Berkeley-RWAWC’s enhanced capability to detect seasonal variations,
demonstrating its usefulness in studying tropical wetland hydrology. We
also discuss potential sources of uncertainty and reasons for variations
in inundation retrievals. Berkeley-RWAWC represents a valuable addition
to environmental science, offering new insights into tropical wetland
dynamics.
Combining top-down and bottom-up approaches to evaluate recent trends and seasonal patterns in U.K. N2O emissions
Authors: Saboya Eric , Manning Alistair J. , Levy Peter , Stanley Kieran M , Pitt Joseph , Young Dickon , Say Daniel , grant Aoife , Arnold Tim , Rennick Chris , Tomlinson Samuel , Carnell Edward , Artioli Yuri , Stavert Ann R , Spain T Gerard , O´Doherty Simon , Rigby Matthew , Ganesan Anita L
Published: February 2024

Atmospheric trace gas measurements can be used to independently assess
national greenhouse gas inventories through inverse modelling. Here,
atmospheric nitrous oxide (NO) measurements made in the
United Kingdom (U.K.) and Republic of Ireland are used to derive monthly
NO emissions for 2013-2022 using two different inverse
methods. We find mean U.K. emissions of 90.5±23.0 (1σ)
and 111.7±32.1 (1σ) Gg NO
yr for 2013-2022, and corresponding trends of
-0.68±0.48 (1σ) Gg NO
yr and -2.10±0.72 (1σ) Gg
NO yr, respectively for the two
inverse methods. The U.K. National Atmospheric Emissions Inventory
(NAEI) reported mean NO emissions of 73.9 Gg
NO yr across this period, which is
14-33% smaller than the emissions derived from atmospheric data. We
infer a pronounced seasonal cycle in NO emissions, with
a peak occurring in the spring and a second smaller peak in the late
summer for certain years. The springtime peak has a long seasonal
decline that contrasts with the sharp rise and fall of
NO emissions estimated from the bottom-up U.K.
Emissions Model (UKEM). Bayesian inference is used to minimize the
seasonal cycle mismatch between the average top-down (atmospheric
data-based) and bottom-up (process model and inventory-based) seasonal
emissions at a sub-sector level. Increasing agricultural manure
management and decreasing synthetic fertilizer NO
emissions reduces some of the discrepancy between the average top-down
and bottom-up seasonal cycles. Other possibilities could also explain
these discrepancies, such as missing emissions from NH
deposition, but these require further investigation.
Future climate projections of severe convective wind events from a convection-permitting regional climate model
Authors: Brown Andrew , Dowdy Andrew , Lane Todd
Published: February 2024

Recent advances in regional climate modelling include finer-scale
simulations that can partially resolve deep convective processes. These
convection-permitting models can help provide insight on how regional
distributions of hazardous convection could evolve in possible future
climates. However, the use of these models for representing
climatologies of severe wind gusts related to convection has not been
explored in detail, including for Australian regional climate. As a
result, future projections of this hazard have mostly been estimated
using changes in the large-scale environment from global climate models,
with significant uncertainties related to this method. Here, we present
findings on the ability of a regional, convection-permitting climate
model in representing severe wind gusts associated with convection in
southeastern Australia. We also examine future changes in the frequency
and intensity of severe convective wind events as represented by this
convection-permitting model, and compare these with changes in the
large-scale environment from the global climate model that forces these
simulations.
PENGARUH PEMBERIAN ACIDIFIER ASAM SITRAT TERHADAP BOBOT HIDUP, BOBOT KARKAS, DAN BOBOT LEMAK ABDOMINAL AYAM ULU
Authors: Malhan Malhan , Septinova Dian , Nova Khaira , Riyanti Riyanti
Published: February 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh dan level terbaik pemberian asam sitrat terhadap bobot hidup, bobot karkas, dan bobot lemak abdominal ayam ULU (Unggas Lestari Unggul). Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL), dengan 4 perlakuan dan 5 ulangan dengan 10 ekor ayam ULU per ulangan. Perlakuan yang diberikan yaitu pemberian asam air minum tanpa asam sitrat sebagai kontrol (P0), air minum dengan asam sitrat 0,5% (P1), air minum dengan asam sitrat 1.0% (P2), dan air minum asam sitrat 1.5% (P3). Data yang diperoleh dianalisis menggunakan ANOVA (Analisis of Variant) pada taraf 5% dan uji lanjut yang digunakan adalah uji BNT (beda nyata terkecil). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pemberian asam sitrat berpengaruh nyata (P<0,05) terhadap bobot lemak abdominal, namun tidak berpengaruh nyata (P>0,05) terhadap bobot hidup dan bobot karkas. Pemberian asam sitrat yang terbaik adalah 1,5%.
5G Network Coverage Hole Prediction and Detection Using Machine Learning
Authors: Obiefuna Tobechukwu Chidozie , Omijeh Bourdillon Odianonsen
Published: February 2024

A signal-free area in a wireless network is called a coverage hole (CH). The signal at this location is either nonexistent or too weak to be detected or monitored. There may sometimes be coverage gaps or places with poor radio frequency (RF) performance due to wireless infrastructure components’ inability to adapt to changing RF dynamics and offer adequate coverage of the locations. Finding coverage gaps and RF problem spots needs a client-side approach rather than the traditional infrastructure-driven solution because of the importance of network intuition. This article’s goal is to locate coverage gaps or weak signal places in a variety of scenarios, including 5G KPIs and QoS parameters (QCI, or quality of service class identifier). The primary objective is to apply classification techniques to determine which use cases or network slices are impacted by the decreased signal strength. Training and test datasets for supervised machine learning techniques are pre-collected measured report data from a live 5G network monitoring counter and data system. Since most KPIs are numerical data, the study uses the classification methods ANN, RF, NB, and LR. This is not at all like the traditional methods—such as driving tests, etc.—for gathering data for coverage-hole detection. Orange Canvas and Microsoft Excel are two instances of data mining technologies that are used for both detection and prediction.
AMALAN PENGAJARAN BAHASA ARAB DI SEKOLAH RENDAH PADA TAHAP SATU
Authors:   Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, UiTM Cawangan Terengganu, Kampus Dungun, CHE MAT AZMAN , ABDUL RAHMAN SITI ABIDAH ,   Universiti Terbuka Malaysia (UNITEM), Kampus Kuala Terengganu, AWANG AZARUDIN ,   Akademi Pengajian Islam Kontemporari UiTM Cawangan Terengganu, Kampus Dungun,, RAMLI NAZRATUL AINI ,   Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, UiTM Cawangan Terengganu, Kampus Dungun
Published: February 2024

Pengajaran dan pembelajaran bahasa Arab yang bermula seawal di sekolah rendah di Malaysia merupakan satu perkembangan yang positif. Kesesuaian cara penyampaian subjek bahasa Arab akan menentukan sama ada objektif pendidikan bahasa Arab dapat dicapai dengan jayanya. Kajian ini bertujuan untuk mengenal pasti cara penyampaian guru dan pencapaian murid dalam subjek bahasa Arab di sekolah rendah tahap satu. Sebanyak 274 murid dan 7 orang guru terlibat dalam kajian ini. Tinjauan yang dijalankan dengan mencatat dan merakam gambar di dalam kelas ketika proses pengajaran berjalan. Manakala sesi temu bual memfokuskan kepada pandangan guru berkenaan amalan dan pencapaian murid di dalam kelas. Dapatan kajian ini menunjukkan kebanyakan amalan pengajaran oleh guru sangat baik dan sesuai dengan tahap murid-murid serta penggunaan Bahan Bantu Mengajar (BBM) dalam sesi kelas. Dari segi pencapaian pula, didapati kemahiran mendengar dan bertutur adalah lebih rendah daripada kemahiran membaca dan menulis. Namun secara keseluruhannya, pencapaian murid-murid adalah memuaskan. Kajian ini mencadangkan agar pendedahan kepada aktiviti luar darjah mampu meningkatkan lagi motivasi dan mengukuhkan kemahiran bahasa Arab murid seperti lawatan dan kem bahasa Arab. Kata Kunci : Amalan; penyampaian; bahasa Arab; BBM; kemahiran.
ENHANCING ACCRUAL ACCOUNTING ADOPTION IN THE MALAYSIAN PUBLIC SECTOR: CHALLENGES AND THE KEY SUCCESS FACTORS
Authors:   Fakulti Perakaunan, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Cawangan Sabah, JIDWIN AGNES PAULUS , AWANG JULIANA ,   Fakulti Perakaunan, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Cawangan Sabah, RAMLEE ROSLIDA ,   Fakulti Perakaunan, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Cawangan Sabah, GIRAU EMELIA ,   Fakulti Perakaunan, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Cawangan Sabah, AG KEE DGKU HABIBAH ,   Fakulti Perakaunan, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Cawangan Sabah, IKHSAN MUHAMAD IZWAN ,   Fakulti Undang-Undang, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Cawangan Sabah
Published: February 2024

The transition from cash-based accounting to accrual accounting in the public sector has become a subject of growing interest globally, driven by the pursuit of improved financial transparency, accountability, and decision-making. This paper critically reviews existing literature pertaining to the challenges and success factors associated with the implementation of accrual accounting in the Malaysian public sector context. The literature review unveils a multifaceted array of challenges that hinder the seamless adoption of accrual accounting. These challenges range from the complexities of transitioning institutional structures and processes to the intricacies of aligning human resources with the demands of accrual-based financial reporting. By shedding light on the intricate dynamics of accrual accounting implementation, this paper contributes to the ongoing dialogue on strengthening financial governance, transparency, and accountability within the Malaysian public sector. Keyword(s) : Accrual accounting, implementation challenges, success factors, Malaysian public sector, resistance to change
PENGARUH TIKTOK TERHADAP MAHASISWA MALAYSIA DALAM PILIHANRAYA UMUM-15 (PRU 15)
Authors:   Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Johor, RAMLI FAIRUZ , AZAMI NURMUNIRAH ,   UNITAR International University, AB RAHIM RUQAIYAH ,   Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Johor
Published: February 2024

Kajian ini membincangkan hubungan antara politik dan media sosial, khususnya TikTok, memfokuskan kepada generasi muda Malaysia. Walaupun banyak penyelidikan telah dijalankan mengenai penyebaran maklumat politik melalui platform seperti Facebook dan Twitter, terdapat jurang mengenai peranan TikTok. Matlamatnya adalah untuk merapatkan jurang ini dan menyumbang kepada literatur sedia ada dengan meneroka pengaruh TikTok terhadap pengundi muda semasa Pilihan Raya Umum Ke-15 (PRU-15) pada 2022. Kajian ini mengkaji penggunaan TikTok berkaitan penyampaian maklumat politik seperti mesej dari penyokong, manifesto dari parti politik. Selain itu, kajian ini menekankan kepada kesedaran dan penyertaan politik di kalangan pelajar universiti. Metodologi kajian ini melibatkan tinjauan dalam talian yang diedarkan melalui borang google (google form) kepada pengundi muda dari UNITAR dan UiTM JOHOR. Pengumpulan data mengambil masa empat minggu, dengan analisis dilakukan menggunakan SPSS ver. 28. Kajian ini menggunakan kaedah kuantitatif, memfokuskan kepada analisis deskriptif. Penemuan menunjukkan bahawa pengundi muda terlibat dalam politik dan penggunaan TikTok ke dalam kempen politik memberi kesan positif kepada keputusan mereka. Kata Kunci : TikTok, PRU-15, pengundi muda, media sosial, politik dan Malaysia.
ICP ANALYSIS OF HEAVY METALS IN MERETRIX SPP. FROM PANTAI SEPAT, KUANTAN, PAHANG
Authors:   Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Pahang, 26400 Bandar Tun Abdul Razak Jengka, Pahang, Malaysia, SHARRUDIN NURUL IZZAH HUMAIRAH , MD ISA NURUN NADHIRAH ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Pahang, 26400 Bandar Tun Abdul Razak Jengka, Pahang, Malaysia, NAWI LILIWIRIANIS ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Pahang, 26400 Bandar Tun Abdul Razak Jengka, Pahang, Malaysia, MOHD JAN SARAH LAILA ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Pahang, 26400 Bandar Tun Abdul Razak Jengka, Pahang, Malaysia, MOHD KHAZAAI SITI NOORHAFIZA ,   Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi MARA Cawangan Pahang, 26400 Bandar Tun Abdul Razak Jengka, Pahang, Malaysia
Published: February 2024

Hard clams constitute the genus Meretrix is one of the most demanded bivalvia species in Malaysia. However, the unknown level of heavy metal content raises concerns for the health of seafood lovers, particularly those who consume seafood from Pantai Sepat, Kuantan, Pahang. Using bivalves as bio-indicators, the objectives of this study are to determine the level of concentration of Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb), and to evaluate these concentrations according to the permissible limits established by the Malaysia Food Act (1983) and Food Regulations (1985) and the World Health Organisation (1982). Before analysing the samples with Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES), the collected and desiccated samples were digested with acid. The concentrations of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) were determined to be 0.56 ppm, 6.76 ppm, 0.06 ppm, and 0.04 ppm, respectively. The order of metals in the collected Meretrix spp. is Zn> Cu> Cd> Pb. The concentrations of all elements present in the hard clams were assessed and found to fall within acceptable thresholds, indicating that they are suitable for consumption without posing any health risks. Keyword(s) : heavy metal; Meretrix genus; Pantai Sepat, Pahang
¬¬¬¬¬¬¬CONCEPTUALIZING THE WORKCATION PERCEIVED ATTRIBUTES, CONCEPTS AND IMPACTS AMONG LOCAL EMPLOYEES
Authors:   Institute of Continuing Education & Professional Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA, 40450 Shah Alam, Selangor, ABDUL HAMID MOHAMAD ZAIDI , WEE HASSNAH ,   Faculty of Hotel & Tourism Management, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Cawangan Selangor, Bandar Puncak Alam, 42300 Selangor.
Published: February 2024

The study aims to discover the perceived attributes, concepts, and impacts of workcation among local employees. A total of 242 study participants were chosen using purposive convenience sampling techniques. An online Google form was used to collect 150 usable responses. The data for this study were analysed using descriptive statistics. Results found travelling for official company affairs was the key attribute of workcation. Employee retention, productivity and creativity were the three most apparent perceived impacts of workcation. The workcation concept is viable for implementation by employers due to its flexibility and enhances employees’ creativity elements. The findings of this study assist local employees in understanding the attributes, concepts, and potential impact of implementing the workcation, which will be more beneficial if implemented as part of the company's work culture. Future studies can extend this research and validate the workcation concept in a different setting. Keyword(s) : workcation, attributes, impacts, retention, productivity, creativity
Soluble ST2 as a possible biomarker for inflammation in patients with acute heart failure
Authors: Lai Jiacheng , Huang Chongjian , Li Bin , Han Yongsheng
Published: February 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between peripheral circulating serum soluble suppression of tumorigenicity-2 (sST2) levels and inflammatory biomarkers in patients with acute heart failure (AHF).

Methods

One hundred and eleven consecutive AHF patients with NYHA class II-IV were enrolled, and peripheral blood was collected within 24 h of admission for the detection of NT-ProBNP, sST2, hypersensitive troponin I, cytokines, precalcitoninogen, C-reactive protein, in addition to routine standard of care blood tests.

Results

The median sST2 of 111 patients was 47.50 ng/ml (24.25–86.15 IQR), of whom 43 patients (38.7%) had sST2 35 ng/ml or less; linear correlation analysis showed that serum sST2 correlated with NT-ProBNP (r
2 = 0.32), NEU% (r
2 = 0.41), NLR (r
2 = 0.36), CRP (r
2 = 0.50), IL-18 (r
2 = 0.43) (P < 0.001), and correlated with Hs-cTnI (r
2 = 0.19), NUE (r
2 = 0.25), LYM (r
2 = -0.23), IL-2RA (r
2 = 0.29) (P < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis depicted that CRP (β = 0.318), IL-18 (β = 0.368), NEU% (β = 0.346), NLR (β = −0.304), and NT-ProBNP (β = 0.324) significantly correlated with sST2 values, respectively (P < 0.05). ST2 levels have a linear association with length of hospitalization.

Conclusion

Peripheral blood inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-18, NEU%, NLR) in patients with AHF had a close relationship with sST2 levels, and the mechanism of action of sST2 may be related to the inflammatory response.
Prognostic role of coronary artery ectasia in patients with nonobstructive coronary artery disease
Authors: Gurgoglione Filippo Luca , Benatti Giorgio , Vignali Luigi , Tadonio Iacopo , Magnani Giulia , Denegri Andrea , Lazzeroni Davide , Tuttolomondo Domenico , De Gregorio Mattia , Indrigo Elia , Signoretta Gianluca , Abbati Vittoria , Nicolini Francesco , Ardissino Diego , Solinas Emilia , Niccoli Giampaolo
Published: February 2024

Aims

Coronary artery ectasia (CAE) has been linked to the occurrence of adverse events in patients with ischemia/angina and no obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA/ANOCA), while the relationship between CAE and myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) has been poorly investigated. In our study we aimed at assessing differences in clinical, angiographic and prognostic features among patients with CAE and MINOCA vs. INOCA/ANOCA presentation.

Methods

Patients with angiographic evidence of CAE were enrolled at the University Hospital of Parma and divided into MINOCA vs. INOCA/ANOCA presentation. Clinical and quantitative angiographic information was recorded and the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) was assessed at follow-up.

Results

We enrolled a total of 97 patients: 49 (50.5%) with MINOCA and 48 (49.5%) with INOCA/ANOCA presentation. The presentation with MINOCA was associated with a higher frequency of inflammatory diseases (P = 0.041), multivessel CAE (P = 0.030) and thrombolysis in myocardial infarction (TIMI) flow < 3 (P = 0.013). At a median follow-up of 38 months, patients with MINOCA had a significantly higher incidence of MACE compared with those with INOCA/ANOCA [8 (16.3%) vs. 2 (4.2%), P = 0.045], mainly driven by a higher rate of nonfatal MI [5 (10.2%) vs. 0 (0.0%), P = 0.023]. At multivariate Cox regression analysis, the presentation with MINOCA (P = 0.039) and the presence of TIMI flow <3 (P = 0.037) were independent predictors of MACE at follow-up.

Conclusion

Among a cohort of patients with CAE and nonobstructive coronary artery disease, the presentation with MINOCA predicted a worse outcome.