bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Low-Cost Alternative to Commercial Negative Pressure Wound Therapy using Wall Mounted suction : A Pilot Study
Authors: Chabihi Zakaria , Aalil Tariq , Demnati Brahim , Boumediane El Mehdi , Benhima Mohamed Amine , Abkari Imad
Published: January 2024

Introduction
Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) is an established method for managing acute and chronic wounds, promoting healing and reducing complications. However, the high costs associated with commercial NPWT devices limit accessibility, especially in resource-limited settings. This pilot study explores a low-cost alternative using commonly available materials and compares its effectiveness in wound management with commercial NPWT.
Methods and Materials
A prospective observational study involving 10 patients with various wound types suitable for NPWT was conducted at a Moroccan tertiary care hospital. A locally sourced NPWT alternative was implemented using wall-mounted suction, gauze, polyurethane films, and IV lines. Patients were followed for 4 weeks, and wound parameters were monitored at dressing changes. The cost of the alternative NPWT method was calculated based on local material prices.
Results
The alternative NPWT method effectively maintained controlled subatmospheric pressure on wounds, promoting granulation tissue formation and reducing edema and bacteria. Among the 10 patients enrolled, diverse wound types were observed, and wound healing parameters showed substantial improvement. Notably, wound area reduction (WAR) averaged 78.1%, wound volume reduction (WVR) averaged 85.7%, granulation tissue increased from 32.5% to 86.7%, and exudate reduced from moderate to minimal. Pain scores also decreased significantly. Adverse events were minor and manageable, with a mean cost of 12.4 USD per patient.
Discussion
This study demonstrates that the low-cost NPWT alternative achieved comparable outcomes to commercial NPWT reported in literature while utilizing easily accessible materials. It effectively reduced wound size, promoted tissue healing, managed exudate, and controlled pain. Importantly, it offered cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and adaptability to diverse clinical settings.
Conclusion
The low-cost alternative to commercial NPWT using standard materials showed promising results in wound management, offering similar outcomes to commercial NPWT at a substantially lower cost. This alternative holds potential for application in resource-limited settings where commercial NPWT is inaccessible or unaffordable. Larger randomized controlled studies with longer follow-up periods are warranted to validate these findings and compare this alternative with other wound care modalities.
Smart Integration in Agriculture: an Arduino-driven Rice Grain Dryer for Optimal Post-harvest Management
Authors: Nebrida Alan Pacites
Published: January 2024

In the field of agriculture, the post-harvest stage often presents a multitude of obstacles that have the potential to undermine the quality and longevity of the crop. One of the primary obstacles in rice production is the effective drying of rice grains, which is crucial for preventing problems such as mold growth, discoloration, and unintentional germination. To tackle this issue, we propose an innovative solution: a rice grain drying system driven by an Arduino microcontroller. This device effectively combines technology accuracy with agricultural needs. The system is equipped with a very precise temperature sensor to maintain a uniform drying environment, fluctuating within the range of 50 to 60 degrees Celsius. The use of a nichrome heater, selected for its consistent and dependable heat production, is complemented by an air blower to ensure the even distribution of heat throughout the drying chamber. One notable characteristic of this invention is its significant drying capacity of 50 kilograms in each operation. The effectiveness of the product was verified by a rigorous testing process. A batch of glutinous rice weighing 25 kilograms, initially containing 25.5% moisture, was successfully reduced to 13.5% moisture content within a time frame of 125 minutes. In a similar vein, a batch of grains weighing 40 kilograms, which had just undergone threshing, had a moisture content of 22% initially. Remarkably, this batch achieved the desirable moisture level of 14% within a mere two-hour timeframe. This innovative technology not only provides a resolution to the difficulties faced in post-harvest processes but also signifies a fundamental change in thinking, introducing a fresh era where intelligent technology seamlessly integrates with traditional agricultural methods.
Saúde Indígena: Análises do Impacto da Presença da Casa de Saúde Indígena (CASAI) nos Distritos Sanitários Especiais Indígenas (DSEI) durante a Pandemia de COVID- 19
Authors: Dias Gabriel Zopolatto Turci , Moimaz Suzely Adas Saliba , Oliveira Julio Martinez Alves , Saliba Tânia Adas
Published: January 2024

Os povos Indígenas são conhecidos como a primeira população a se estabelecer em determinado local. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar e ponderar o grau de importância da Casa de Saúde Indígena (CASAI) nos Distritos Sanitários Especiais Indígenas (DSEI), ao relacionar com os dados epidemiológicos da COVID-19. Trata-se de um estudo do tipo documental, ecológico, realizado do mês de setembro de 2021 ao mês de agosto de 2022. Foi realizada uma análise do número de CASAIs nos DSEIs de Altamira no Pará e Xingu em Mato Grosso. Foram verificados os boletins epidemiológicos divulgados diariamente pela Secretaria de Saúde Indígena, DATASUS e pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil em relação a COVID-19. As variáveis estudadas foram: o número de CASAIs, o número de Unidades Básicas de Saúde Indígena (UBSI) encontradas nos distritos, número de casos, óbitos e taxa de infecção de COVID-19 dos DSEIs. Foram incluídas todas as faixas etárias tanto do sexo masculino, quanto do feminino. As análises descritivas dos dados foram realizadas e apresentadas em forma de tabelas e gráficos produzidos pelo programa Excel 2017. A CASAI Sinop possui 4 enfermeiros enquanto a de Altamira apresenta apenas 1. Em relação aos técnicos de enfermagem, são 8 na CASAI de Mato Grosso e 7 na do Pará. Foi possível identificar uma diferença entre os que testaram positivos por todo o Brasil e toda a população de nativos, sendo em torno de 16% de positivados para toda a população brasileira e menos de 9% quando analisados apenas as populações de todos os DSEIs. Os indígenas que são atendidos pelo DSEI Xingu apresentaram quase 24% e o de Altamira mais de 58% infectados. Medidas de prevenção, promoção, educação em saúde são fatores determinantes no combate a patologias respiratórias em comunidades indígenas no Brasil.
Endodontia Regenerativa em Paciente Infantil com Anomalia Dentária e Rizogênese Incompleta: um Relato de Caso Clínico Baseado na Prática Clínica Universitária
Authors: Santos Nathália Ferreira , Dos Anjos Beatriz  Lopes Cruz , Fernandez Matheus dos Santos , Batista Breno de Araújo
Published: January 2024

A cúspide em garra é caracterizada por uma cúspide adicional bem delimitada, localizada na superfície de um dente anterior que se estende, pelo menos, da metade da distância na junção cemento-esmalte para a borda incisal, podendo ocasionar problemas estéticos e funcionais ao paciente. Sua etiologia não está totalmente esclarecida; porém, acredita-se que ocorra devido a fatores genéticos durante a embriogênese ou ambientais. Quando acometido por necrose, o desenvolvimento radicular destes dentes é interrompido, tornando o tratamento endodôntico bastante desafiador por apresentar raízes finas e frágeis, susceptíveis a fratura. Assim o objetivo deste estudo, é relatar um caso clínico, no qual a endodontia regenerativa, por meio da técnica de regeneração pulpar, tornou-se uma alternativa viável para a complementação radicular de dente com cúspide em garra, num paciente infantil. A técnica preconiza a invaginação de células indiferenciadas da região apical de dentes, com ápice aberto para o interior do canal, com o mínimo de instrumentação e máxima irrigação, para recuperar a vitalidade e desenvolvimento da raiz. Apesar de existir uma grande variedade de protocolos clínicos e, também, por serem procedimentos promissores, novos estudos são imprescindíveis, além de um rigoroso acompanhamento clínico e radiográfico. Neste contexto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar um caso clínico em que a endodontia regenerativa, por meio da regeneração pulpar foi uma alternativa viável para realização do procedimento em dente com cúspide em garra num paciente infantil.
Chemical, Morphological and Bacterial Adhesion Analysis of Orthodontic Wires Composed of Different Metallic Alloys
Authors: Braga Maria Leticia Lopes Miguel , Ferraz-Facury Analia Gabriella Borges , Franco Eduardo Martinelli , Marcelino Larissa , Menezes Luan dos Santos , Costa Ana Rosa , Neves José Guilherme
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the chemical, morphological and bacterial adhesion characteristics of orthodontic arches composed of different metal alloys. The wire segments (n=10) were allocated to the following groups: G1) Tru-Chrome- Rock Mountain Steel Wire (Colorado-USA); G2) NiTi- Rock Mountain Wire (Colorado-USA); G3) TiMb Rock Mountain Wire (Colored-USA); G4) NbTi Gummetal- Rock Mountain Wire (Colorado-USA). The orthodontic arches were segmented (20mm) and sterilized by means of ultraviolet light. Using Confocal Laser Microscopy (CLM), the roughness of archwires were investigated. The metallic alloys composition was analyzed by means of Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy-dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). The S. mutans biofilm growth was performed on the arches and analyzed by means of SEM and Spectrophotometry. Surface roughness and Spectrophotometry data were submitted to one-way ANOVA, followed by Tukey's test (α=0.05) and SEM/EDS data obtained by exploratory analysis. The NbTi arches showed higher surface roughness when compared to the other groups, followed by the NiTi and TiMb arches and the steel arches group (p<0.05). It was observed a lower adherence of S. mutans biofilm in steel arches when compared to the other groups. The absorbance results showed higher biofilm formation for the NbTi group, followed by Steel, NiTi and TiMb. (p<0.05). The results of EDS confirm the compositions proposed by the manufacturer. It was concluded that the alloy type in orthodontic arches has an effect on surface roughness. The chemical and morphological characteristics of the arches are related to the adhesion of S. mutans biofilm.
L APPORT DE L ENDOSCOPIE DIGESTIVE HAUTE INTERVENTIONNELLE DANS LA PRISE EN CHARGE THERAPEUTIQUE DES URGENCES (A PROPOS DE 73 CAS)
Authors:   Hopital Cheikh Zayed de Nouakchott., Meimine A.M. , Ahmed Jiddou M.M. ,   Hopital Cheikh Zayed de Nouakchott., Hemeya M.A. ,   Hopital Militaire de Nouakchott., Amar A. ,   Hopital Militaire de Nouakchott., Horma MA. ,   Centre Hospitalier National de Nouakchott., Mohamed Khouna C. ,   Centre Hospitalier National de Nouakchott., Ally O.B. ,   Hopital Cheikh Zayed de Nouakchott., Meya M. ,   Hopital Militaire de Nouakchott., Cheibette EC. ,   Centre Hospitalier National de Nouakchott., Mohamedou EL. ,   Hopital Cheikh Zayed de Nouakchott., Jaroullah M.Y. ,   Hopital Militaire de Nouakchott.
Published: January 2024

The aim of our study is to report the contribution of interventional upper GI endoscopyinthe therapeutic management of emergencies, through a retrospective study, over a period of 3 years about 73 cases. The mean age of our patients was 35.73 years (extremes 2 years and 87 years), and the male sex was the most represented in 53%. The indications in our series were dominated by hematemesis in 24 (32.9%) cases. Endoscopic examination found: PH in 31(42.46%) cases with a predominance of VO, peptic ulcer in 6(8.2%) patients, foreign body in 25(34.2%) patients, tumor lesion in 4(5.5%) patients and benign esophageal stenosis in 13(17.8%) patients, however endoscopic examination was normal in 7(9.6%) patients 61 (84%) patients benefited from endoscopic management. The short-term evolution after endoscopic treatment was favorable in 72 (98.6%) patients.
MALADIE CELIAQUE REVELEE PAR UNE ANEMIE FERRIPRIVE A PROPOS DUN CAS
Authors:   Hopital Cheikh Zayed., Meimine A.MM. , Ahmed Jiddou M.M. ,   Hopital Cheikh Zayed., Jaroullah M.Y. ,   Hopital Cheikh Zayed.
Published: January 2024

Lanemie constitue une affection frequente et grave surtout dans notre contexte, en particulier lanemie ferriprive qui elle-meme necessite une enquete approfondie pour connaitre son etiologie, car elle peut etre revelatrice de plusieurs pathologie a savoir la maladie caeliaque .Nous rapportons lobservation dune patienteagee de 15 ans,chez qui lassociation dune anemie ferriprive a une hypocholesterolemie etait revelatrice dune maladie cÅ“liaque.La confirmation diagnostique a ete apportee par lexamen anathomo-pathologique et le dosage des Ac anti transglutaminase de type IGA.
TISSUE SCAFFOLDING: AN UPCOMING TISSUE FABRICATION TECHNIQUE
Authors:   Bengal School of Technology, Sugandha, Delhi Road Hooghly-712102, West Bengal, India., Dey Paramita , Bhunia Soumik ,   Bengal School of Technology, Sugandha, Delhi Road Hooghly-712102, West Bengal, India., Dey Soumyojit ,   Bengal School of Technology, Sugandha, Delhi Road Hooghly-712102, West Bengal, India.
Published: January 2024

Tissue engineering (TE) is a multidisciplinary research that combines clinical medicine, biology, biochemistry, and materials science. TE involves the creation of scaffolds that can replicate the characteristics of the extracellular matrix (ECM) of tissues to ensure complete and whole regeneration. During the past decade, a wide range of materials have been chosen for bone tissue engineering and combined with these production techniques. Several production methods, including electro-spinning, freeze-drying, bio-printing, and de-cellularization, have been used to create scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. In this paper, we review the capabilities and operating methods of the most promising techniques for the future.
PREVALENCE AND RISK FACTORS OF ABORTION AMONG WOMEN IN KSA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Authors:   OBGYN Consultant- Obstetrics and Gynecology Head of Department Althaghor Hospital, Jeddah, KSA., Abdulhadi AI-Khify Hanyah , Abdulrahman Alturaiyef Munirah ,   OBGYN Registrar, Saudi Board, Saudi German Hospital, KSA., Fouad Bardi Amani ,   OBGYN Resident, Saudi Board, MCH, Madinah, KSA., Jehad Abousada Hoda ,   OBGYN, Master SA, KFH, KSA., Bandar Alharbi Mohammed ,   Medical Service Doctor, MBBS, KSA., Abubakr Almehdar Rawiah ,   Medical Service Doctor, MBBS, KSA., Saleem Aljohani Shumukh ,   Medical Intern, MBBS, KSA., Alrabi Alamri Layla ,   Medical Intern, MBBS, KSA., Abduallah Alanazi Deema ,   Nursing, KSA.
Published: January 2024

Objective:To investigate the prevalence of abortion among women in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and to identify the associated risk factors contributing to its occurrence. Methods:This research will employ a cross-sectional study design to gather data on the prevalence of abortion and its associated risk factors among women in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). A cross-sectional approach allows for collecting data from a diverse population at a single point in time. Results:The study included 242 participants. The most frequent weight among them was 51-65 kg (n= 81, 33.5%) followed by 66-75 kg (n= 75, 31%). The most frequent height among study participants was 1.51-1.60 m (n= 144, 59.5%) followed by 1.61-1.70 m (n= 59, 24.4%). The most frequent educational level among study participants was university (n= 195, 80.6%) followed by school (n= 40, 16.5%). Participants were asked about their relatives with their husbands. The most frequent was no (n= 160, 66.1%) followed by yes (n= 82, 33.9%). Diagnosis of abortion among study participants with most of them had Missed (n= 77, 31.8%) followed by Incomplete (n= 55, 22.7%), and the least was Induced (n= 9, 3.7%). The number of pregnancy follow-ups was average among most of the participants more than 4 visits(n= 159, 65.7%) and 1-3 visits 60 participants (24.8%) at the least no visits were 23 participants (9.5%). Conclusion: Study results showed that most of the study participants are university educational level. Most of them dont smoke and dont do passive smoking. Most of the study participants are Obesity according to their BMI. In addition, most of study participants had good social connection.
RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME (RLS) AND ASSOCIATED
Authors:   Consultant General Surgeon in King Fahad General Hospital, Jeddah, KSA., Abdulaziz Hifni Hassan , Ghazi Badr Khalid ,   Occupational Medicine Consultant, Mecca Health Cluster, Mecca, KSA., Safar Alghtani Yasser ,   Service Doctor, MBBS, KSA., Ali Alnemary Mohammed ,   Service Doctor, MBBS, KSA., Saleh Alzahrani Khalid ,   Service Doctor, MBBS, KSA., Sameer Badhaish Sadeem ,   Medical Intern, KSA., Sabri Alawami Abdulraheem ,   Medical Intern, KSA., Ibrahim Alsaedi Muhnnad ,   Pharmacist, KSA., Salem AlBalawi Abdulmajeed ,   Pharmacist, KSA., Abdullah Alsehemi Mnawer ,   Pharmacist, KSA., Ayidh Alhejaili Emad ,   Pharmacy Technician, KSA.
Published: January 2024

Background: Restless leg syndrome has been a problem for a large percentage of the population as it affects many aspects of life. The aim of this research was to outline the effect of restless leg syndrome on the human body and related diseases that can affect human wellbeing. Methods: The research methodology was done through the cross-sectional process and therefore, the research design that can be included in the descriptive research design. The selected research design would be justified for the present research methodology as a survey would be done with a proper questionnaire. Hence, the selected research design would help in describing and interpreting the collected data. The population that the present research involved in the research methodology belonged to the patients who are suffering from restless legs syndrome disease. The people who go to the national government hospitals for the medication process would be the target population for the survey method. Results: Study included 803 participants in which all of them responded to study survey questions. Study participants believe that restless leg syndrome is not a genetic disorder (n= 359, 44.7%). More than half of study participants reported that taking medicines will help with RLS (n= 436, 54.3%). There were 607 participants reported that daily exercise would help in diminishing the RLS (75.6%). Furthermore, 492 participants considered exercise is essential for RLS (61.2%). Participants were asked about the pain degree with regard to leading a life with restless leg disorder. More than half of participants reported that it is moderate painful (n= 456, 56.8%) Regarding the duration of treatment of restless leg syndrome, than half of participants reported the duration to be moderate span of time (n= 408, 50.8%). Conclusion: In conclusion, this research was a population-based study with a large sample size, and its findings indicate that RLS is widespread among study population. This indicated that RLS could be more prevalent, manifest differently in patients, and have distinct risk factors. Study participants believe that restless leg syndrome is not a genetic disorder. More than half of study participants reported that taking medicines will help with RLS. Participants also reported that daily exercise would help in diminishing the RLS and considered exercise is essential for RLS.
Privacy between Regulation and Technology: GDPR and the Blockchain
Authors: Jusić Asim
Published: January 2024

Compliance with the GDPR while using blockchain technology for data processing results in compliance issues, due to the fact that the blockchain and the GDPR employ different methods to ensure privacy-by-design and privacy-by-default. The blockchain is built on disintermediation and relative decentralization, whereas the GDPR aims for re-intermediation and relative centralization of the data protection process. This paper provides an overview of and suggestions on how to secure compliance with the GDPR while processing data using the blockchain. A focus is placed on the data protection impact assessment on the blockchain network, issues in identifying and determining the role(s) of sole and joint data controllers and data processors, obstacles to exercising the right to rectification and right to be forgotten when the data is recorded on the blockchain, GDPR data transfer requirements as applied to the blockchain, and the protection of privacy in the process of creating blockchain-based smart contracts.
Assessment of the psychometric properties of the Indonesian version of the General Self-Efficacy Scale-12 (GSES-12) in a sample of Indonesian high school students
Authors: Soetjipto Helly Prajitno , Putra Muhammad Dwirifqi Kharisma , Widhiarso Wahyu , Khakim Zulfikri
Published: January 2024

In recent decades, self-efficacy has been one of the major subjects of interest in the field of psychology, with numerous studies published on the topic. This study aims to examine the psychometric features of the General Self-Efficacy Scale-12 (GSES-12), a widely used instrument for assessing general self-efficacy. The Indonesian adaptation of the GSES-12 was validated using item factor analysis (IFA). The study involved a total of 584 high school student participants (M-age = 16.02, SD-age = 1.39; boys = 266, girls = 318). The results obtained from the IFA indicate that the psychometric properties of the GSES-12 were satisfactory. The results exhibited a strong fit with the second-order IFA models and all items had statistically significant factor loadings. In addition, the results obtained from the multigroup IFA indicate that the configural invariance testing models exhibited a satisfactory level of goodness-of-fit (RMSEA 0.06, CFI TLI 0.90). These findings suggest that there were no differences between the genders in the factor structure of the GSES-12.
Assessing adaptation of the psychometric properties of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) using the Rasch Measurement Model among Indian teenagers
Authors: Ali Syed Faraz , Khan Aqeel , Abdul Latif Adibah Binti , Pathath Abdul Wahab , Shabnam Shabnam , Asif Mohammad , Rosman Arieff Salleh
Published: January 2024

The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) is widely accepted as an instrument used to examine diagnosable psychiatric disorders. It is also routinely used as a measure of psychological morbidity. This study aimed to assess and establish the psychometric properties of the GHQ-12 among Indian teenagers. The tool was administered to 212 adolescents aged from 12 to 18 years. Following two-stage cluster sampling, the data were collected from Aligarh district, India. Fleiss Kappa analysis was used to determine test reliability and showed an overall value of 0.94, based on the rater agreement for the instrument. Furthermore, the Rasch measurement model was used, with values of 0.79 and 0.83 for person and item reliability, respectively. Moreover, the value of unidimensionality was found to be 37.9%. Additionally, item fit statistics and item analysis were conducted for the instrument. Based on the preliminary data and findings, the study provides primary evidence for the reliability and validity of GHQ-12. Hence, the questionnaire can lead to more multi-site studies in India.
Analyzing Interaction of Rhodacyanine Inhibitor ‘MKT-077’ with Plasmodium falciparum HSP70s
Authors: Nainani Kumari Chanchal , Upadhyay Vipul , Singh Bikramjit , Sandhu Komalpreet Kaur , Kaur Satinder , Hora Rachna , Mishra Prakash Chandra
Published: January 2024

Introduction::

MKT-077 and its derivatives are rhodacyanine inhibitors that hold potential in the treatment of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases and malaria. These allosteric drugs act by inhibiting the ATPase action of heat shock proteins of 70 kDa (HSP70). MKT-077 accumulates in the mitochondria and displays differential activity against HSP70 homologs.

Methods::

The four Plasmodium falciparum HSP70s (PfHSP70) are present in various subcellular locations to perform distinct functions. In the present study, we have used bioinformatics tools to understand the interaction of MKT-077 at the ADP and HEW (2-amino 4 bro-mopyridine) binding sites on PfHSP70s. Our molecular docking experiments predict that the mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum PfHSP70 homologs are likely to bind MKT-077 with higher affinities at their ADP binding sites.

Results::

Binding analysis indicates that the nature of the identified interactions is primarily hydrophobic. We have also identified specific residues of PfHSP70s that are involved in interacting with the ligand.

Conclusion::

Information obtained in this study may form the foundation for the design and development of MKT-077-based drugs against malaria.
The limits of medieval translation: Juan de Mena’s use of the Imago mundi in the Laberinto de Fortuna English
Authors: Petrovskaia Natalia
Published: January 2024

This article examines a case of medieval adaptation which is not usually considered as a translation but forms part of a translation continuum in that is loosely adapts its base text into a different context through the insertion of translated extracts into a new narrative. Such ‘translation’ results in an interplay between rewriting and respect for authority which produces new works which are paradoxically both original and derivative at the same time. A particularly illustrative case in that regard is the insertion of translated extracts from the geographical section of the twelfth-century Latin encyclopaedia Imago mundiinto vernacular works of different genres. This article takes as its case study the incorporation of Imago mundimaterial into Juan de Mena’s Laberinto de Fortuna.
Study of Homecare Acceptance by The Elderly in The COVID-19 Era
Authors: Siregar Nova Sontry Node , Hasibuan Nadia , Simamora Mayes Felda , Silaban Lidia , Simamora Debora
Published: January 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the care of elderly patients underwent significant changes. Society tends to avoid interaction outside the family, encouraging increased care of elderly patients at home. In this situation, the role of medical personnel becomes essential. This study examines how knowledge, culture, and interest influence homecare services during a pandemic. Respondents regarding homecare were collected from 71 families through a questionnaire. Data analysis includes univariate, bivariate and multivariate aspects to provide an overview of the relationship between variables. All data were analyzed using SPSS software. The result of this study shows p-value of each construct is less than 0.10, which indicates a strong relationship between variables. The findings show that knowledge influences family decisions about home care (p-value=0.024<0.10), while culture (pvalue=0.999>0.10) and interests (p-value=0.999>0.10) do not support acceptance of this service for the elderly. Therefore, it is hoped that respondents will increase their knowledge of improving elderly care and utilization of health services, which will positively impact the quality of life in old age. An in-depth discussion of these findings is carried out in a research paper.
Full elucidation of sorting mechanisms in and around the Golgi apparatus by super-resolution live imaging
Authors: Nakano Akihiko
Published: January 2024

The Golgi body or Golgi apparatus is a cell organelle that plays a key role in protein transport and sorting in the cell. Although basic models of ‘vesicular transport’ processes appear to be widely accepted, there are many researchers who question the status quo. Because
of the difficulties of working with traffic processes in living cells, there are still many unanswered questions. Dr Akihiko Nakano is a researcher working to uncover the full truth about protein transport within the Golgi apparatus. Indeed, his work on the Golgi cisternal maturation is viewed
as a monumental milestone in the field. Technological developments, particularly in live imaging microscopy, mean it is possible to look at specific objects in unprecedented detail and these advancements could enable Nakano to fully elucidate the sorting mechanisms in and around the Golgi
apparatus. Nakano is based at the RIKEN Center for Advanced Photonics (RAP) in Japan and forms part of the Live Cell Super-Resolution Imaging Research Team. He and the team are harnessing the power and potential of live imaging to re-examine the processes of membrane traffic in living cells
of different species, yeast, plant and animal cells. The goal is to propose a fundamental model of membrane trafficking that can explain seemingly different behaviours of membranes by common mechanisms. A key part of the team's research has involved the development of a
novel microscopic methodology called super-resolution confocal live imaging microscopy (SCLIM).
Research on the formation of weathering substances as reserve materials for collapse and climatic conditions
Authors: Oguchi Chiaki
Published: January 2024

Heavy rainfall or natural disasters such as earthquakes can lead to slope failure, which is when a slope weakens and rapidly collapses without warning. The speed of slope failure means there is little chance for people to escape and so there can be significant numbers of injuries and
deaths. Warnings of slope failures from authorities tend to be inaccurate due to myriad factors, including the different properties of soils, as well as factors such as temperature and annual rainfall. Researchers at Saitama University and the National Research Institute for Earth Science
and Disaster Resilience in Japan, including Associate Professor Chiaki Oguchi and Principal Researcher of the project, Tsuyoshi Wakatsuki, are working to address knowledge gaps about sediment-related disasters, particularly slope failure. A key focus for the researchers is on estimating formation
rates of slope materials that are waiting to collapse. The team is working to reduce unpredictability and improve the accuracy of disaster prevention measures. Currently, the researchers are investigating the formation of weathering substances as reserve materials for collapse and climatic
conditions and, so far, they have ascertained that in areas with annual high temperatures, the slow failure materials tend to be those that are composed of a thick slope which contains a greater amount of fine soil particles. They have also confirmed that these materials show a higher potential
for greater weathering, thereby exacerbating the issue and exponentially increasing the possibility of slope failure.
Overview of the research work of Prof. Koyanagi and the composite materials laboratory
Authors: Koyanagi Jun
Published: January 2024

Materials at the quantum scale are highly unpredictable, making it impossible to predict certain measurements. There are also limitations to numerical simulations and modelling techniques for understanding advanced materials at the molecular scale. Professor Jun Koyanagi, Koyanagi Laboratory,
Tokyo University of Science, Japan, is working to establish a quantitative link that connects the nanoscale simulations to the metre scale. This involves developing methods and techniques that accurately relate the behaviour observed at the molecular level to the macroscopic properties of
the material. In order to do this, a comprehensive understanding of the underlying physics and mechanics at each scale is required. Koyanagi's team is hoping to apply multiscale numerical simulations that will help to ensure the long-term reliability of a range of advanced
materials. A key focus of the research is carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) and Koyanagi wants to pave the way for the widespread use of CFRP in aerovehicles in the near future. The team will conduct multiscale numerical simulations and advanced material development to ensure the reliability
and long-term durability of CFRP. This will allow them to confidently incorporate CFRP into the construction of aerovehicles and these will be more sustainable and environmentally friendly as the lightweight nature of CFRP will significantly contribute to enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing
emissions. The researchers are using analytical and experimental methods to evaluate the thermal and mechanical properties of composite materials.
Overview of the research work of Dr. Hui-Ping Chuang
Authors: Chuang Hui-Ping
Published: January 2024

Dr Hui-Ping Chuang, Sustainable Environment Research Laboratories, National Cheng Kung University, Taiwan, is investigating the ability of different environmental microorganisms to degrade pollutants and produce sustainable resources. A particular focus is on the microbes involved in
the nitrogen cycle. She collaborates with Japanese researchers at DHS Technology, Hiroshima University and Tohoku University, among others, as well as communicating with Taiwan researchers based at National Taiwan University and National Chiayi University. Chuang is currently involved in five
studies: exploring different types of sponge media for cultivating slow-growing functional microbes; investigating aerobic autotrophic microbes for the conversion of greenhouse potential (GHP) gases such as N2O and CO2 to mitigate global warming; investigating the application of different
functional microbes for treating different types of wastewaters containing nitrogenous compounds or alkylphenol compounds or long-term alkanes; cultivating a chloroethane-degrading community used for remediation of soil and groundwater pollution; exploring the use of an anaerobic microbial
community for the treatment of biological waste to produce the green energy as methane (CH4) and nitrogen fertiliser as resources; and developing a microbial monitoring platform integrating chemical and molecular analyses. This microbial monitoring platform can be used to detect and quantify
nitrogen oxidising or reducing microorganisms, as well as other groups with some modifications and it has now been used in various fields to understand important relationships.
Systematising clustering techniques through cross-disciplinary research, leading to the development of new methods
Authors: Inoue Kohei
Published: January 2024

Clustering algorithms can help scientists gain valuable insights from data. There's a variety of clustering methods in use, which means there are gaps between the methods used in different fields. Associate Professor Kohei Inoue, Department of Media Design, Kyushu
University, Japan, wants to bridge these gaps by investigating the relationships among various clustering methods developed in different fields, in order to systematise the world of clustering. He is bringing two decades of research activities in pattern recognition and image processing to
this work. In order to clarify the relationships between different clustering methods, Inoue and the team are conducting an interdisciplinary survey. First, the researchers are working to clarify the relationship between the technologies used across different fields. So far, they have successfully
clarified the relationship between the rolling guidance filter and the local mode filter. In a previous study, Inoue and his collaborators proposed a robust K-means clustering al-algorithm. The researchers demonstrated the effectiveness of their technique utilising a BBC dataset originating
from BBC News. In their work, the team is collaborating with a laboratory at a university in Japan that is studying non-photorealistic rendering. They have so far published several co-authored papers, as well as having obtained results from their joint research. Ultimately, by systemising
clustering technology, Inoue believes that the characteristics of each method, as well as the interrelationships between each method, can be explained and clustering technology enhanced, as well as new clustering techniques developed.
Circular economy, turning decay into magic: heparin extraction from pig viscera
Authors: Chiang Tzen-Yuh
Published: January 2024

The transformation of industrial waste into valuable resources is an increasingly important concept. At Taiwan's National Cheng Kung University a multi-disciplinary team has been working towards the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations
member states in 2015 and has developed a method of extracting a valuable medical drug called heparin from agricultural waste. The researchers have combined the advantages of chemical engineering and biotechnology to effectively improve the extraction efficiency and purity of heparin and protected
it with technology patents. This exciting innovation could solve the problem of waste disposal from pork production while creating a high-medical value resource from that waste and the residue of the production process could be transformed into fertiliser and animal feed. As such, the researchers
believe the application of this technology will help improve the economic productivity of pig farmers and promote environmentally sustainable farming. The value of Chiang's research are the anticoagulant benefits heparin offers to patients, and also providing new techniques
that offer a sustainable and stable supply of the drug. He and the team have taken an innovative approach to extracting heparin sodium, which is the heparin precursor, from pig viscera waste by using dual hydrogen peroxide oxidation methodology and microbial monitoring to enhance the purity
of the extracted heparin sodium, creating a higher-quality product for medical applications.
Interdisciplinary Research on Electrons and Biofilms
Authors: Tokunou Yoshihide
Published: January 2024

Interdisciplinary research on electrons and biofilms is being carried out by Assistant Professor Dr Yoshihide Tokunou, Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Japan. His work is aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the role of electrons in bacterial
society and exploring the process of bacterial extracellular electron transfer (EET) in biofilms. By combining microbiology and electrochemistry, Dr Tokunou is developing EET-based biotechnologies and improving our understanding of the physiological importance of EET in bacterial society.
To achieve this, he is collaborating with various experts such as microbiologists, chemists, and engineers, including Professor Dr Nobuhiko Nomura. His current interest is in the EET process that terminates with soluble electron acceptors. By regulating the EET in biofilms respiring with oxygen,
he is trying to control various biofilm-related phenomena such as host-bacteria interaction, antibiotic resistance of biofilms, biochemical production from biofilms, etc.
Measuring Second Language Pragmatic Competence
Authors: Ellis Rod , Roever Carsten , Shintani Natsuko , Zhu Yan
Published: January 2024

Extending earlier work on grammar, this book investigates the development of tests measuring second language learners’ implicit and explicit pragmatic abilities in English. It reports detailed analyses of the use of the tests with two groups of learners and in studies investigating study abroad and the effects of instruction.
Using Elder Abuse Case Studies to Develop LGBTQ+ Cultural Competency
Authors: Cook-Daniels Loree
Published: January 2024

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) elders are vulnerable to both the “usual” types of elder abuse (physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse, along with neglect), and with abuse that is specific to the context and history of LGBTQ+ elders. Training for adult protective services, long-term care ombudsmen, and other professionals who work with abused elders therefore should include information and skill-building in responding to this population. Research into effective training about LGBTQ+ elders indicates that interactive training activities such as case studies are critical components. This paper presents six case studies of LGBTQ+ elder abuse, representing financial and physical abuse, intimate partner violence, sexual abuse, neglect, and abandonment. Victims are transgender, lesbian, and gay. Each case study is accompanied by a discussion of key elements in the case, and includes discussion questions and developer comments to help integrate the cases into a comprehensive curricula.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Latino Families With Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias: Qualitative Interviews With Family Caregivers and Primary Care Providers
Authors: Perales-Puchalt Jaime , Peltzer Jill , Fracachan-Cabrera Monica , Perez G Adriana , Ramírez Mariana , Greiner K Allen , Burns Jeffrey Murray
Published: January 2024

Background

Latino individuals experience disparities in the care of Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD) and have disproportionately high COVID-19 infection and death outcomes.

Objective

We aimed to gain an in-depth understanding of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic among Latino families with ADRD in the United States.

Methods

This was a qualitative study of 21 informal caregivers of Latino individuals with ADRD and 23 primary care providers who serve Latino patients. We recruited participants nationwide using convenience and snowball sampling methods and conducted remote interviews in English and Spanish. We organized the transcripts for qualitative review to identify codes and themes, using a pragmatic approach, a qualitative description methodology, and thematic analysis methods.

Results

Qualitative analysis of transcripts revealed eight themes, including (1) the pandemic influenced mental and emotional health; (2) the pandemic impacted physical domains of health; (3) caregivers and care recipients lost access to engaging activities during the confinement; (4) the pandemic impacted Latino caregivers’ working situation; (5) the pandemic impacted health care and community care systems; (6) health care and community care systems took measures to reduce the impact of the pandemic; (7) Latino families experienced barriers to remote communication during the pandemic; and (8) caregiver social support was critical for reducing social isolation and its sequalae.

Conclusions

Latino families with ADRD experienced similar but also unique impacts compared to those reported in the general population. Unique impacts may result from Latino individuals’ underserved status in the United States, commonly held cultural values, and their intersectionality with ADRD-related disability. Family caregiver social support was crucial during this time of adversity. These findings suggest the need for more equitable access, culturally appropriate and trustworthy content and delivery of health care and community services, as well as stronger financial and social supports for family caregivers.
Online Health Search Via Multidimensional Information Quality Assessment Based on Deep Language Models: Algorithm Development and Validation
Authors: Zhang Boya , Naderi Nona , Mishra Rahul , Teodoro Douglas
Published: January 2024

Background

Widespread misinformation in web resources can lead to serious implications for individuals seeking health advice. Despite that, information retrieval models are often focused only on the query-document relevance dimension to rank results.

Objective

We investigate a multidimensional information quality retrieval model based on deep learning to enhance the effectiveness of online health care information search results.

Methods

In this study, we simulated online health information search scenarios with a topic set of 32 different health-related inquiries and a corpus containing 1 billion web documents from the April 2019 snapshot of Common Crawl. Using state-of-the-art pretrained language models, we assessed the quality of the retrieved documents according to their usefulness, supportiveness, and credibility dimensions for a given search query on 6030 human-annotated, query-document pairs. We evaluated this approach using transfer learning and more specific domain adaptation techniques.

Results

In the transfer learning setting, the usefulness model provided the largest distinction between help- and harm-compatible documents, with a difference of +5.6%, leading to a majority of helpful documents in the top 10 retrieved. The supportiveness model achieved the best harm compatibility (+2.4%), while the combination of usefulness, supportiveness, and credibility models achieved the largest distinction between help- and harm-compatibility on helpful topics (+16.9%). In the domain adaptation setting, the linear combination of different models showed robust performance, with help-harm compatibility above +4.4% for all dimensions and going as high as +6.8%.

Conclusions

These results suggest that integrating automatic ranking models created for specific information quality dimensions can increase the effectiveness of health-related information retrieval. Thus, our approach could be used to enhance searches made by individuals seeking online health information.
A Narrative Review to Identify Promising Approaches for Digital Health Interventions to Support Emotion Regulation for Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (Preprint)
Authors: Murray Aja Louise , Thye Melissa , Obsuth Ingrid , Cai Shufang , Lui Michael , Orr Corina , Saravanan Anusha
Published: January 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

Emotion regulation difficulties affect many adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and previous research has highlighted a need for accessible interventions to support them in this domain, especially in real-life contexts. Digital health interventions (DHIs) can be embedded in adolescents’ daily lives and thus offer considerable promise for meeting this need. However, there is a lack of information to guide the development of suitable emotion regulation DHIs for this population. The goal of this study is, therefore, to identify recommendations to guide the development of emotion regulation DHIs for adolescents with ADHD. This narrative review synthesizes diverse relevant evidence to inform their development, including promising therapeutic approaches and components and relevant design and development considerations. We find that there is very little direct evidence of “what works” for emotion regulation DHIs and emotion regulation interventions more generally for adolescents with ADHD; however, we identify promising therapeutic approaches for new DHIs. We also recommend following a co-design or coproduction approach with adolescents with ADHD, including exploring elements designed to motivate and engage young people to support sustained adherence. We conclude that DHIs are a promising approach for emotion regulation interventions for adolescents with ADHD, could draw on a range of existing therapeutic approaches, and should be co-designed with users themselves.