bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FER1L4: A Long Non-coding RNA with Multiple Roles in the Occurrence and
Development of Tumors
Authors: Mou Jie , Wang Bei , Liu Yuling , Zhao Fengnan , Wu Yinxin , Xu Wen , Zeng Deyuan , Zhang Qi , Yuan Chengfu
Published: March 2022

Background:

FER-1 family member 4 (FER1L4), a 6.7 kb lncRNA located at 20q11.22, plays an
important biological function in a variety of tumor diseases. The purpose of this review is to clarify the pathophysiological
mechanism and potential biological function of FER1L4 in different tumors.

Methods:

By searching the relevant literature in PubMed, the specific pathophysiological mechanism of
FER1L4 in different tumors was summarized.

Results:

LncRNA FER1L4 is one of the key factors in tumorigenesis and is abnormally down-regulated in
many tumors, including osteosarcoma, lung cancer, laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma, laryngeal cancer, colorectal
cancer, ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, endometrial cancer, osteoarthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis, and so on. However, FER1L4 is downregulated in breast cancer, glioma, oral
squamous cell carcinoma, renal clear cell carcinoma, and periodontitis, and plays a protective role in orthodontic
teeth. In addition, as a tumor suppressor gene or oncogene, FER1L4 affects tumor proliferation, invasion,
migration, and apoptosis.

Conclusion:

LncRNA FER1L4 has a good application prospect in the treatment and diagnosis of various
tumors.
Evaluation of Alterations in DNA Methylation of CYP3A4 Gene Upstream Regulatory
Elements in Gastric Cancer and in Response to Diazinon Treatment
Authors: Golestanian Ramin , Barzegar Ali , Mianji Ghodrat Rahimi , Ebrahimzadeh Mohammad Ali , Fatemi Behnaz
Published: March 2022

Background:

Little is known about cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) DNA methylation and transcription
alterations in gastric cancer.

Objective:

In this paper, we initially aimed to address the effect of diazinon pesticide on DNA methylation and transcription
changes of the CYP3A4 gene in a human gastric cell line. In the next step, we studied the methylation differences
of CpG sites within the upstream regulatory regions of the CYP3A4 gene among human gastric cancerous
and healthy tissues.

Methods:

For the in vitro assay, the methylation changes of the C/EBP response element and transcript level of the
CYP3A4 gene were studied following treatment of the AGS cell line with various concentrations of diazinon pesticide.
In the next phase, the methylation percentages of 24 CpG sites within or around the upstream regulatory elements,
including near promoter, C/EBP binding site, XREM, and CLEM4, in 11 specimens of human gastric cancer
tissue were compared to their adjacent healthy tissues.

Results:

Treatment with 10 μM Diazinon significantly increased the CYP3A4 gene transcription by approximately
27-fold, which was correlated with the hypermethylation of 3 CpGs in C/EBP binding sites, including -5998, -5731
and -5725 (p<0.001 for all comparisons). Results of bisulfite sequencing revealed that the CpG sites which are located
in -1521 (p=0.003), -1569 (p=0.027), -10813 (p=0.003), -10851 (p=0.001) and -10895 (p=0.0) bp from transcription
start site, were significantly hypermethylated in cancerous tissues comparing to their healthy cohort.

Conclusion:

Hypermethylation of CLEM4 and a region near the core promoter may have a significant association
with gastric cancer incidence.
Preparation and Characterization of a Novel Glycine-based Ionic Liquid
and its Application in the Synthesis of Xanthenediones and Dihydropyrimidones
in Water
Authors: Salami Masoumeh , Ezabadi Ali
Published: March 2022

Aim and Objective:

A novel amino acid ionic liquid was synthesized, characterized, and
approved as an efficient and recyclable catalyst for synthesizing xanthenediones and DHPMs in water
at reflux temperature.

Material and Method:

The ionic liquid was synthesized by a two-step method. In the first step, pyridine-
N-sulfonic acid was prepared by the reaction of pyridine with chlorosulfonic acid. In the second
step, the reaction of as-prepared ionic liquid with glycine in water afforded the desired amino acid ionic
liquid. Then, the ionic liquid was fully characterized by FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, MS, TG/DTG,
and Hammett acidity function.

Results:

We disclose a new strategy to incorporate glycine as the amino acid-based cation in the ionic
liquid structure. The prepared IL exhibited remarkable catalytic activity in synthesizing xanthendiones
and DHPMs in water at reflux temperature.

Conclusion:

We have developed a green and efficient amino acid ionic liquid to synthesize xanthenediones
in water at reflux temperature. The advantage of this protocol is highlighted by the novelty
of the ionic liquid, using H2O as the solvent, simple work-up, high yields, and short reaction times.
A Tagging SNP Set Method Based on Network Community Partition of Linkage Disequilibrium and Node Centrality
Authors: Zhang Yulin , Wan Qiang , Cheng Xiaochun , Lu Guangyang , Wang Shudong , He Sicheng
Published: March 2022

Aims:

Solving the tagSNP selection problem by network method and reconstructing unknown individual from tagSNPs by a prediction method.

Background:

As a genetic marker, SNP has been used for linkage analysis of genetic diseases in genome-wide association studies. The genetic information carried by SNPs is redundant in regions of high linkage disequilibrium in the human genome. Therefore, a subset of informative SNPs (tagSNP set) is sufficient to represent the rest of the SNPs, reducing the genotyping cost and computational complexity greatly

Method:

A novel tagSNP set selection method named NCCRT is proposed, which combines the ideas of the network community partition of the SNP network and node centrality ranking to select tagSNPs of genotype data.

Methods:

A novel tagSNP set selection method named NCCRT is proposed, which combines the ideas of the network community partition of the SNP network and node centrality ranking to select tagSNPs of genotype data.

Results:

The method is tested on three data sets, including 176 SNPs, 169 SNPs, and 56 SNPs of gene ASAH1, HTR2A, and OLFM4. The experimental results show that our method achieves the best effect in terms of prediction accuracy and stability for ASAH1 and HTR2A.

Conclusion:

Compared with random sampling, greedy algorithm, and TSMI algorithm, our method does not rely on causal SNP selection, but it can also quickly identify the tagSNP nodes and improve the prediction accuracy.
Zerumbone Sensitizes the Anti-Cancer Efficacy of Cisplatin in Hepatocellular
Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Jegannathan Srimathi Devi , Arul Santhosh , Dayalan Haripriya
Published: March 2022

Background:

Zerumbone (ZER) exerts potent antiproliferative, apoptotic, and antiangiogenic functions
against variety of cancer cells. Cisplatin (CIS), a standard chemotherapeutic drug, is effective against different types of
cancers. However, the combined effect of ZER and CIS on hepatocellular carcinoma remains unknown.

Objective:

The present study is attempted to examine the effectiveness of the combination of ZER and CIS in liver
cancer in vitro using the hepatocellular carcinoma Huh-7 cell line.

Methods:

Effect of ZER, CIS, and their combination therapy on cell viability and cytotoxicity was assessed by MTT
and LDH leakage assays. Cell cycle and apoptosis analysis were performed by flow cytometry. Quantitative real-time
PCR was used to examine the m-RNA expression of genes involved in apoptosis, angiogenesis, and invasion. Caspase
activity was studied using commercial kit method in the Huh-7 cell line.

Results:

Cells exposed to ZER, CIS individually, and both together significantly inhibited cell proliferation with IC50
values of 10 μM for ZER and 3 μM for CIS. The combination treatment of ZER and CIS revealed a synergistic effect
with a CI value < 1. CIS treatment, either alone or in combination with ZER, caused cell cycle arrest in the S phase.
More importantly, ZER combined with CIS exhibited synergistic effects in up-regulating Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, leading to
caspase cascade activation.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the current study indicates that the treatment of 4.62 μM of ZER combined with 1.93 μM
of CIS in human liver cancer cells exerts synergistic effects on cell growth inhibition, apoptosis induction, angiogenesis,
and invasion by modulating gene expression.
Effects of Berberine on Leukemia with a Focus on Its Molecular Targets
Authors: Mazandaranian Mohammad Reza , Dana Parisa Maleki , Asemi Zatollah , Hallajzadeh Jamal , Mansournia Mohammad Ali , Yousefi Bahman
Published: March 2022

Leukemia is common among both women and men worldwide. Besides the fact that finding new treatment
methods may enhance the life quality of patients, there are several problems that we face today in treating leukemia
patients, such as drugs’ side effects and acquired resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. Berberine is a bioactive alkaloid
found in herbal plants (e.g., Rhizoma coptidis and Cortex phellodendri) and exerts several beneficial functions,
including anti-tumor activities. Furthermore, berberine exerts antiproliferative and anti-inflammatory effects. Up to
now, some studies have investigated the roles of berberine in different types of leukemia, including acute myeloid
leukemia and chronic lymphocytic leukemia. In this review, a detailed description of the roles of berberine in leukemia
is provided. We discuss how berberine involves different molecular targets (e.g., interleukins and cyclins) and signaling
pathways (e.g., mTOR and PI3K) to exert its anti-tumor functions and how berberine is effective in leukemia
treatment when combined with other therapeutic drugs.
Eugenol Inhibits the Biological Activities of an Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell
Line SCC9 via Targeting MIF
Authors: Duan Yao , Huang Xiaojin , Qiao Bo , Ma Rui , Li Jialin
Published: March 2022

Background.:

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a rampant cancer type in head and neck cancers
with a poor prognosis and a high recurrence rate. Eugenol shows an anticancer effect in a variety of cancers, but it has
been rarely studied in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to explore the role of Eugenol in OSCC and the underlying mechanism.

Methods:

After different concentrations of Eugenol (0, 200, 400, and 800 μM) treatment, the viability, proliferation,
migration, and invasion of OSCC cell line SCC9 were measured by CCK-8, colony formation, wound-healing, and
transwell assays, respectively. TUNEL staining was employed to detect apoptosis. Western blotting was used to evaluate
gene expression at the protein level. Molecular docking was used to identify the target of Eugenol.

Results:

Eugenol decreased the proliferation and reduced the abilities of invasion and migration along with the expression
of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 2 and MMP9 in SCC9 cells. On the contrary, the ratio of apoptotic cells was
increased by Eugenol. In addition, Eugenol down-regulated B cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) expression, but up-regulated
BCL-2 associated X (Bax), cleaved caspase 3, and cleaved poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) expression. Meanwhile,
Eugenol exerted its effect on SCC9 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Eugenol could bind to macrophage
migration inhibitory factor (MIF), the expression of which was down-regulated after Eugenol treatment. Besides,
overexpression of MIF reversed all the effects of Eugenol on OSCC cells.

Conclusion:

In summary, Eugenol suppressed the malignant processes of OSCC cells by targeting MIF, which could
guide the clinical application of Eugenol in OSCC.
Review of Control Algorithms of Vehicle Anti-lock Braking System
Authors: Zhu Shuaiwei , Fan Xiaobin , Qi Gengxin , Wang Pan
Published: March 2022

Background:

Automobile anti-lock braking system (ABS) is an important part of the
vehicle active safety control system, which is widely used in all kinds of vehicles. At present, the
research of ABS mainly focuses on the study of the control algorithm, which is intended to improve
the stability, robustness, and adaptability of the control algorithm.

Objective:

In the future, it is necessary to explore adaptive robust control algorithms that adapt
to extreme conditions such as high nonlinearity and sudden road changes, such as active disturbance
rejection control technology, deep learning neural network control technology, etc.

Method:

According to the research status of domestic and foreign researchers in the field of ABS
control algorithms, ABS control algorithms are mainly divided into two categories: control methods
based on logic thresholds and control methods based on slip ratio.

Results:

The comparative study of ABS control methods shows that the logic threshold control
method has strong maneuverability and simple implementation, but its adaptability is poor. Sliding
mode control has strong robustness and good transient response, but chattering needs to be
suppressed. Although the PID control algorithm is simple and easy to implement, it needs to improve
the transient response of the system.
The Impact of Social Media Posts Concerning Esthetic Dentistry on Self-Esteem and Satisfaction Among Adults in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhuzili Ghadah , Alghamdi Asmaa , Alhazmy Rawan , Abdullah Haneen , Sembawa Shahinaz , Khayat Waad
Published: March 2022

Background:

Social media platforms have become credible tools for spreading awareness of dental care as well as advertisements for esthetic dentistry, which may negatively affect users by leading to dissatisfaction and low self-esteem when they compare themselves with others.

Objective:

To measure self-esteem and satisfaction related to esthetic dentistry by administering a validated questionnaire to adults in Saudi Arabia, which investigates how they are affected by seeing the topic addressed on social media.

Methods:

This study investigated 515 participants living in Saudi Arabia. A self-administered validated questionnaire was electronically developed using Google Forms 2020. A link to the questionnaire was distributed through multiple social media platforms, such as WhatsApp, Twitter, and Instagram, to assess self-esteem and satisfaction resulting from the presentation of esthetic dentistry on social media platforms among adults. A pilot study was conducted to assess the validity and reliability of the questionnaire, which was modified based on feedback, as well as the results of the reliability testing.

Results:

The analysis showed that the social media platforms on which information about or advertisements for esthetic dentistry are most commonly found were Snapchat (45.8%) and Instagram (44.5%). A statistically significant association was found between the sociodemographic data, including age (P=0.00), gender (P=0.000), occupation (P=0.001), monthly income (P=0.000), and the effect of the appearance of one’s smile on willingness to post personal photos on social media.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that seeing esthetic dentistry addressed on social media sites influences social media users’ self-esteem and satisfaction. Social media platforms should be encouraged to properly discuss common concerns and available dental treatments.
Fear of Falling and Functional Mobility in Elders with Diabetic Peripheral
Neuropathy in Coastal Karnataka, India: A Hospital-Based Study
Authors: Gupta Garima , Maiya G. Arun , Bhat Shyamasunder N. , Hande Manjunatha H. , Dillon Lisa , Keay Lisa
Published: March 2022

Background:

Aging with diabetic neuropathy is likely to predispose people to falls. Despite
being a high-risk population, estimates of falls and their associated factors are poorly documented
in elderly diabetic neuropathy patients living in coastal Karnataka, India.

Objective:

To investigate fear of falling and functional mobility, as an approximate measure of
clinical fall risk, and explore the associated risk factors in elderly diabetic neuropathy patients living
in coastal Karnataka, India.

Method:

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 316 elders aged 60 to 80 with
diabetic neuropathy. A detailed diabetic foot evaluation was done. Self-reported fear of fall and
functional mobility was measured using the Falls Efficacy Scale- International and Timed Up and
Go test, respectively, with published cut-points. Additionally, a recall of 12 months of fall history
was recorded.

Results:

Descriptive analysis showed that self-reported fear of fall and below-average functional
mobility was present in 39% and 49% of the elders with diabetic neuropathy, respectively.
Spearman's correlational analysis revealed that self-reported fall concerns and functional mobility
are significantly interdependent. Regression analysis suggested female gender, the severity of neuropathy,
and previous falls as significant modifiers for fear of falls and poor functional mobility.

Conclusion:

Half of the elders (49%) with diabetic neuropathy have poor functional mobility and
39% have a fear of falling. Improving physical function and addressing fall concerns of elders with
diabetic neuropathy can result in greater confidence to participate in everyday activities and contribute
to their better health. Hence, early fall risk identification is recommended for providing better
health care to these individuals.
NATURE INSPIRED METAHEURISTICS COMPARATIVE STUDY TO SOLVE TRAVELING SALESMAN PROBLEM
Authors:   Program Studi Teknik Industri Universitas Mercu Buana, Chandra Agung , Naro Aulia
Published: March 2022

There are numerous optimization method to solve the traveling salesman problem, TSP. One of methods is metaheuristics which is the state of the art algorithm that can solve the large and complex problem. In this research, three of well-known nature inspired population based metaheuristics algorithm: Ant Colony Optimization – ACO, Artificial Bee Colony – ABC and Particle Swarm Optimization – PSO are compared to solve the 29 destinations by using Matlab program. The ACO produces the shortest distance, 94 kilometers and is more efficient than ABC and PSO methods.
BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY IN AGRO-INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY CHAIN: REVIEW
Authors:   Agro Industrial Engineering Universitas IPB, Ekawati Ratna , Arkeman Yandra ,   Industrial Engineering Department Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University, Candra Titi , suprihatin suprihatin
Published: March 2022

This paper provides a review of the application of blockchain technology in industrial supply chains in general. It aims to investigate how current blockchain technology is and its applications and to look for research loopholes that have not been done before. The theory of several research papers that have been published in journals to date, along with several reports from the grayish literature as a means of streamlining judgments about growing blockchain-based supply chains is included in this review. The research step is to identify papers based on the year of publication so that a theory-based understanding of blockchain technology in the Agro-Industrial Supply Chain ecosystem, between 2007 and 2019. Blockchain technology in the agro-industry supply chain described in the framework in 2018 is 6.57%, while the implication for the case study is 9.11% and identified in the hypothesis with a questionnaire regarding blockchain recognition and exploration so that 4.5% of the blockchain model simulation. Based on the graph, there are 52% of blockchain research articles on the agro-industrial supply chain will be followed up by researchers, thereby increasing the value chain in agro-industry more. Research that discusses the value (value) in the supply chain that occurs from upstream to downstream in the agro-industrial supply chain ecosystem is very little, only around 2%. Excellence blockchain can identify the stakeholders that exist in the supply chain in each ecosystem from upstream to downstream processes so that it can transform a rigid and uncertain supply chain system into an efficient performance supply chain with transparency and trust between stakeholders so that integration, collaboration, and accuracy accurate data information.
FIT FOR PURPOSE WELL CONTROL EQUIPMENT SELECTION FOR WORKOVER AND WELL SERVICE RIGS THROUGH DECISION MAKING APPROACH (CASE STUDY: PT BEI)
Authors:   School of Business and Management Institut Teknologi Bandung, Devid Devid , Siallagan Manahan
Published: March 2022

PT BEI is a subsidiary of Bravo Corporation that holds 100 percent-owned and operated interest in Rocka PSC. PT BEI need to improve the flexibility of its workover and well service rigs to be operated across the operating areas to deal with dynamic business plan and rig allocation as a strategy in entering the transition period to the end of concession of Rocka PSC. Well Control equipment associated with the rig contract Scope of Work (SOW) is identified as the main potential causes of why current rigs have less flexibility. A decision-making approach is utilized to find the solution. Well data mapping combined with existing business process and applicable standards review are conducted to determine the minimum Well Control equipment requirement, selection criteria and alternatives. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is utilized as the decision-making method to analyze the alternatives. As the result, a BOP Class II A1-R1 (Annular + Blind-Shear ram) is selected as the fit for purpose Well Control equipment. The solution implementation improves the rig flexibility and saves potential $ 90,000 investment cost per rig for the rig contractors and $ 77,000 cost avoidance per rig for PT BEI.
AN EXPERIMENTAL STUDY TO PRODUCE FISH FODDER USING ALTERNATIVE INGREDIENTS
Authors:   Teknik Industri Universitas Brawijaya, Yuniarti Rahmi , Efranto Remba Yanuar , Azlia Wifqi , Oktavianty Oke
Published: March 2022

The sustainable and economic development of the fishing industry is heavily dependent upon the choice of raw materials used in fish fodder. Furthermore, an inappropriate amount or nutritional quality of fodder will impede the health and growth of the farmed fish. This work therefore aims to determine the feasibility of substituting snail flour for fishmeal in fodder. The experimental and statistical results indicated no significant nutritional difference between fodder synthesized with fishmeal or snail flour as the protein source. Therefore, snail flour can be used to replace fishmeal used in milkfish fodder without negatively affecting the health of the milkfish.
THE INFLUENCE OF MARKETING MIX AND MARKETING ENVIRONMENT TOWARDS CUSTOMERS SATISFACTION TO ENHANCE THE LOCAL SMALL MEDIUM ENTERPRISES COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE
Authors:   Teknik Industri Universitas Brawijaya, Ardianwiliandri Raditya , Lukodono Rio Prasetyo , Efranto Remba Yauar
Published: March 2022

Fruit Chip is one of the most well known Small Medium Enterprise’s products in Batu Malang. This is due to the high number of fruit production produced in this city. In selling their products, local Small Medium Enterprise have to face the highly competition from other producers as well who also produced similar products. The increasing number of tourists who came into Batu City also encouraging local Small Medium Enterprises to capture this opportunity by producing food souvenirs such as fruit chip. Therefore, every local Small Medium Enterprises should make continuous improvements in all areas as well as improving the quality of their products especially to maintain and attract the consumers. One of the key areas that need to be developed is marketing by conducting marketing research. This marketing research is conducted by observing the marketing environment (X1) and marketing mix-7P’s (X2) towards the customer satisfaction (Y) using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Based on the regression analysis, we can conclude that there is significant correlation between marketing mix towards customer satisfaction. The most influential variable in marketing mix is employee, promotion, process, and places. While the biggest influence in marketing environment is new entrants and customer variables.
A monument for an English Queen. The genealogical programme on the tomb of Philippa of Hainault (d. 1369) at Westminster Abbey, London
Authors: Frequin Sanne
Published: March 2022

The tomb of Queen Philippa of Hainault (d. 1369) presents a genealogical programme consisting of thirty-two statues of weepers (pleurants), placed around the tomb. They represent family members of the deceased queen (both her own family and her family-in-law) and could be identified by the coats of arms below the pedestals on which they were placed. The original heraldry on the pedestals has been lost, but older drawings and descriptions allow a reconstruction of the identity of Philippa’s weepers. This genealogical programme has hitherto been interpreted as political propaganda for Philippa’s husband Edward III in the Hundred Years’ War and for his alleged claim (in his wife’s name) to the counties Hainault, Holland and Zeeland. Philippa’s own patronage of the tomb, the represented persons in the genealogical programme and the location of the tomb in Westminster Abbey suggest, however, an alternative reading. With her tomb, the queen shaped her own multifaceted memory, that of a queen consort, a guardian of dynastic continuity and of a descendant of the illustrious Hainault comital family.
Characterization of the interlaminar fracture toughness of unidirectional thermoplastic composites
Authors: Schmidt Jakob , Klingenhöfer Marcus , Kaufmann Jörg , Cebulla Holger , Kroll Lothar
Published: March 2022

In this study, the critical energy release rate in mode I (G1c) for thermoplastic composites made of carbon fiber (CF) and glass fiber (GF) with a polyamide 6 (PA6) matrix is investigated. Double cantilever beam (DCB) was used as the specimen for the mode I test, and the ASTM D 5528-13 was chosen as standard. Moreover, different methodological approaches were applied by comparing different data reduction schemes from the ASTM D 5528-13 and further analytic approaches from the literature. In addition to the conducted experiments, a numerical model of the DCB test is developed and the virtual crack closure technique (VCCT) is performed on the numerical model to determine G1c for PA6-CF and PA6-GF. For the interlaminar fracture toughness G1c a value of 2.87 mJ/mm2 was determined for PA6-GF and a value of 2.16 mJ/mm2 for PA6-CF, which indicate that the use of PA6 as matrix in a composite structure leads to good resistance to damage. A comparison of the different methodological approaches showed a good agreement between the analytical approaches from the literature and the ASTM D 5528-13. In contrast, the values generated for G1c by the VCCT method were significantly higher than those of the other methods.
Effect of a Virtual Reality Contact-Based Educational Intervention on the Public Stigma of Depression: Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Lem Wey Guan , Kohyama-Koganeya Ayako , Saito Toki , Oyama Hiroshi
Published: March 2022

Background

Public stigma against depression contributes to low employment rates among individuals with depression. Contact-based educational (CBE) interventions have been shown to reduce this public stigma.

Objective

We investigated the ability of our Virtual Reality Antistigma (VRAS) app developed for CBE interventions to reduce the stigma of depression.

Methods

Sixteen medical students were recruited and randomized 1:1 to the intervention group, who used the VRAS app (VRAS group), and the control group, who watched a video on depression. The depression stigma score was assessed using the Depression Stigma Scale (DSS) and Attitudinal Social Distance (ASD) questionnaire at pre- and postintervention. Feasibility was assessed in both groups and usability was assessed only in the VRAS group after the intervention. A qualitative study was performed on the acquisition of knowledge about stigma in both groups based on participants’ answers to open-ended questions and interviews after the intervention.

Results

The feasibility score was significantly higher in the VRAS group (mean 5.63, SD 0.74) than in the control group (mean 3.88, SD 1.73; P=.03). However, no significant differences were apparent between the VRAS and control groups for the DSS (VRAS: mean 35.13, SD 5.30; control: mean 35.38, SD 4.50; P=.92) or ASD (VRAS: mean 12.25, SD 3.33; control: mean 11.25, SD 1.91; P=.92). Stigma scores tended to decrease; however, the stigma-reducing effects of the VRAS app were not significant for the DSS (pre: mean 33.00, SD 4.44; post: mean 35.13, SD 5.30; P=.12) or ASD (pre: mean 13.25, SD 3.92; post: mean 12.25, SD 3.33; P=.12). Qualitative analysis suggested that the VRAS app facilitated perspective-taking and promoted empathy toward the patient.

Conclusions

The CBE intervention using virtual reality technology (VRAS app) was as effective as the video intervention. The results of the qualitative study suggested that the virtual reality intervention was able to promote perspective-taking and empathy toward patients.

Trial Registration

University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trials Registry (UMIN-CTR) UMIN000043020; https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000049109
Promoting Health Behavior Change in the Preconception Period: Combined Approach to Intervention Planning
Authors: Scott Jodie , Oxlad Melissa , Dodd Jodie , Szabo Claudia , Deussen Andrea , Turnbull Deborah
Published: March 2022

Background

Half of women begin pregnancy above the healthy weight range, increasing the risk of complications and adversely affecting the lifelong health of their babies. Maternal obesity remains the strongest risk factor for offspring obesity across childhood, adolescence, and adulthood. Previous research suggests that women should be encouraged to be within a healthy weight range before conception to improve health outcomes.

Objective

We outlined the intervention planning and design process to develop an evidence-informed eHealth intervention to promote weight management. The intervention, based on psychological theories and behavior change techniques, has been developed for women affected by overweight or obesity who intend to become pregnant. The Begin Better web application is part of an integrated program being evaluated in a clinical trial to assess if weight management before pregnancy can influence clinical outcomes for mothers and babies.

Methods

Our intervention development process was guided by intervention mapping and person-based methods. This study documents steps 2 to 4 of a 6-step iterative intervention mapping approach informed by the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model and the findings of a previous interview study. We defined behavior change objectives for each of the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills behavioral determinants as well as theory-based behavior change techniques and practical strategies. We also used persuasive system design principles to assist in translating these strategies into a digital environment.

Results

The resultant intervention comprises nutritional and physical activity content along with psychological strategies, which are notably absent from mainstream weight management programs. Strategies to increase motivation, garner social support, and promote self-care are integral to maintaining engagement with the intervention, which aims to improve lifestyle behaviors and enhance well-being. Important elements include tracking mechanisms for percentage progress toward goals to enable feedback on behaviors and outcomes; in-application messages of praise on entry of goals or habits; and strategies to prompt habit formation and action planning via small, easily achievable steps toward positive change.

Conclusions

Design decisions and processes for idea generation about intervention content, format, and delivery are often not reported. In this study, we respond to this gap in the literature and outline a process that is potentially transferable to the development of other interventions.
Designing Formulae for Ranking Search Results: Mixed Methods Evaluation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Douze Laura , Pelayo Sylvia , Messaadi Nassir , Grosjean Julien , Kerdelhué Gaétan , Marcilly Romaric
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

A major factor in the success of any search engine is the relevance of the search results; a tool should sort the search results to present the most relevant documents first. Assessing the performance of the ranking formula is an important part of search engine evaluation. However, the methods currently used to evaluate ranking formulae mainly collect quantitative data and do not gather qualitative data, which help to understand what needs to be improved to tailor the formulae to their end users.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate 2 different parameter settings of the ranking formula of LiSSa (the French acronym for scientific literature in health care; Department of Medical Informatics and Information), a tool that provides access to health scientific literature in French, to adapt the formula to the needs of the end users.

METHODS

To collect quantitative and qualitative data, user tests were carried out with representative end users of LiSSa: 10 general practitioners and 10 registrars. Participants first assessed the relevance of the search results and then rated the ranking criteria used in the 2 formulae. Verbalizations were analyzed to characterize each criterion.

RESULTS

A formula that prioritized articles representing a consensus in the field was preferred. When users assess an article’s relevance, they judge its topic, methods, and value in clinical practice.

CONCLUSIONS

Following the evaluation, several improvements were implemented to give more weight to articles that match the search topic and to downgrade articles that have less informative or scientific value for the reader. Applying a qualitative methodology generates valuable user inputs to improve the ranking formula and move toward a highly usable search engine.
Exploring Human-Data Interaction in Clinical Decision-making Using Scenarios: Co-design Study (Preprint)
Authors: Tendedez Helena , Ferrario Maria-Angela , McNaney Roisin , Gradinar Adrian
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

When caring for patients with chronic conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), health care professionals (HCPs) rely on multiple data sources to make decisions. Collating and visualizing these data, for example, on clinical dashboards, holds the potential to support timely and informed decision-making. Most studies on data-supported decision-making (DSDM) technologies for health care have focused on their technical feasibility or quantitative effectiveness. Although these studies are an important contribution to the literature, they do not further our limited understanding of how HCPs engage with these technologies and how they can be designed to support specific contexts of use. To advance our knowledge in this area, we must work with HCPs to explore this space and the real-world complexities of health care work and service structures.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to qualitatively explore how DSDM technologies could support HCPs in their decision-making regarding COPD care. We created a scenario-based research tool called Respire, which visualizes HCPs’ data needs about their patients with COPD and services. We used Respire with HCPs to uncover rich and nuanced findings about human-data interaction in this context, focusing on the real-world challenges that HCPs face when carrying out their work and making decisions.

METHODS

We engaged 9 respiratory HCPs from 2 collaborating health care organizations to design Respire. We then used Respire as a tool to investigate human-data interaction in the context of decision-making about COPD care. The study followed a co-design approach that had 3 stages and spanned 2 years. The first stage involved 5 workshops with HCPs to identify data interaction scenarios that would support their work. The second stage involved creating Respire, an interactive scenario-based web app that visualizes HCPs’ data needs, incorporating feedback from HCPs. The final stage involved 11 one-to-one sessions with HCPs to use Respire, focusing on how they envisaged that it could support their work and decisions about care.

RESULTS

We found that HCPs trust data differently depending on where it came from and who recorded it, sporadic and subjective data generated by patients have value but create challenges for decision-making, and HCPs require support in interpreting and responding to new data and its use cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study uncovered important lessons for the design of DSDM technologies to support health care contexts. We show that although DSDM technologies have the potential to support patient care and health care delivery, important sociotechnical and human-data interaction challenges influence the design and deployment of these technologies. Exploring these considerations during the design process can ensure that DSDM technologies are designed with a holistic view of how decision-making and engagement with data occur in health care contexts.

CLINICALTRIAL
Machine Learning Models for Predicting Influential Factors of Early Outcomes in Acute Ischemic Stroke: Registry-Based Study (Preprint)
Authors: Su Po-Yuan , Wei Yi-Chia , Luo Hao , Liu Chi-Hung , Huang Wen-Yi , Chen Kuan-Fu , Lin Ching-Po , Wei Hung-Yu , Lee Tsong-Hai
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Timely and accurate outcome prediction plays a vital role in guiding clinical decisions on acute ischemic stroke. Early condition deterioration and severity after the acute stage are determinants for long-term outcomes. Therefore, predicting early outcomes is crucial in acute stroke management. However, interpreting the predictions and transforming them into clinically explainable concepts are as important as the predictions themselves.

OBJECTIVE

This work focused on machine learning model analysis in predicting the early outcomes of ischemic stroke and used model explanation skills in interpreting the results.

METHODS

Acute ischemic stroke patients registered on the Stroke Registry of the Chang Gung Healthcare System (SRICHS) in 2009 were enrolled for machine learning predictions of the two primary outcomes: modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at hospital discharge and in-hospital deterioration. We compared 4 machine learning models, namely support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), light gradient boosting machine (LGBM), and deep neural network (DNN), with the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic curve. Further, 3 resampling methods, random under sampling (RUS), random over sampling, and the synthetic minority over-sampling technique, dealt with the imbalanced data. The models were explained based on the ranking of feature importance and the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP).

RESULTS

RF performed well in both outcomes (discharge mRS: mean AUC 0.829, SD 0.018; in-hospital deterioration: mean AUC 0.710, SD 0.023 on original data and 0.728, SD 0.036 on resampled data with RUS for imbalanced data). In addition, DNN outperformed other models in predicting in-hospital deterioration on data without resampling (mean AUC 0.732, SD 0.064). In general, resampling contributed to the limited improvement of model performance in predicting in-hospital deterioration using imbalanced data. The features obtained from the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), white blood cell differential counts, and age were the key features for predicting discharge mRS. In contrast, the NIHSS total score, initial blood pressure, having diabetes mellitus, and features from hemograms were the most important features in predicting in-hospital deterioration. The SHAP summary described the impacts of the feature values on each outcome prediction.

CONCLUSIONS

Machine learning models are feasible in predicting early stroke outcomes. An enriched feature bank could improve model performance. Initial neurological levels and age determined the activity independence at hospital discharge. In addition, physiological and laboratory surveillance aided in predicting in-hospital deterioration. The use of the SHAP explanatory method successfully transformed machine learning predictions into clinically meaningful results.

CLINICALTRIAL
SMOOTH algorithm: An automatic method to estimate the most likely drug combination in electronic health records. Development and validation study (Preprint)
Authors: Ouchi Dan , Giner-Soriano Maria , Gómez-Lumbreras Ainhoa , Vedia Urgell Cristina , Torres Ferran , Morros Rosa
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Since the use of electronic health records (EHRs) in an automatized way, pharmacovigilance or pharmacoepidemiology studies have been trying to characterize the therapy using different algorithms. Although progress has been made in this area for monotherapy, in exposure to combinations of two or more drugs the challenge to characterize the treatment increases significantly and more research is needed.

OBJECTIVE

To develop and describe a novel algorithm that automatically returns the most likely therapy of one drug or combinations of two or more drugs over time.

METHODS

We used the Information System for Research in Primary Care (SIDIAP) as our reference EHRs platform for the smooth algorithm development.
The algorithm is inspired by statistical methods based on moving averages and depends on a parameter Wt, a flexible window that determines the level of smoothing. The effect of Wt was evaluated in a simulation study with different window lengths on the same dataset. To understand the algorithm performance in a clinical or pharmacological perspective, we conducted a validation study. We designed four different pharmacological scenarios and asked to four independent professionals to compare a standard algorithm with the smooth algorithm. Then, the data from the simulation and the validation studies was analysed.

RESULTS

The Wt parameter has an impact over the raw data. As we increased the window length, the number of smoothed patients augmented, although we hardly see changes bigger than five percent of the total data. In the validation study, significant differences were obtained in the performance of the smooth algorithm against the standard method. These differences were consistent across pharmacological scenarios.

CONCLUSIONS

The smooth algorithm is an automatic approach that standardizes, simplifies, and improves the data processing in drug exposition studies using EHRs. This algorithm can be generalized to almost any pharmacological medication and facilitates the detection of treatment switches, discontinuations and/or terminations throughout the study period.
Protecting Older Adult Residents in Care Facilities Against Influenza and COVID-19 Using the Influenza Communication, Advice and Reporting (FluCARE) App: Prospective Cohort Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Quinn Emma , Hsiao Kai Hsun , Johnstone Travers , Gomez Maria , Parasuraman Arun , Ingleton Andrew , Hirst Nicholas , Najjar Zeina , Gupta Leena
Published: March 2022

BACKGROUND

Early detection and response to influenza and COVID-19 outbreaks in aged care facilities (ACFs) are critical to minimizing health impacts. The Sydney Local Health District (SLHD) Public Health Unit (PHU) has developed and implemented a novel web-based app with integrated functions for online line listings, detection algorithms, and automatic notifications to responders, to assist ACFs in outbreak response. The goal of the Influenza Outbreak Communication, Advice and Reporting (FluCARE) app is to reduce time delays to notifications, which we hope will reduce the spread, duration, and health impacts of an influenza or COVID-19 outbreak, as well as ease workload burdens on ACF staff.

OBJECTIVE

The specific aims of the study were to (1) evaluate the acceptability and user satisfaction of the implementation and use of FluCARE in helping ACFs recognize, notify, and manage influenza and COVID-19 outbreaks in their facility; (2) identify the safety of FluCARE and any potential adverse outcomes of using the app; and (3) identify any perceived barriers or facilitators to the implementation and use of FluCARE from the ACF user perspective.

METHODS

The FluCARE app was piloted from September 2019 to December 2020 in the SLHD. Associated implementation included promotion and engagement, user training, and operational policies. Participating ACF staff were invited to complete a posttraining survey. Staff were also invited to complete a postpilot evaluation survey that included the user Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS) measuring app acceptance, utility, and barriers and facilitators to use. An issues log was also prospectively maintained to assess safety. Survey data were analyzed descriptively or via content analysis where appropriate.

RESULTS

Surveys were completed by 31 consenting users from 27 ACFs. FluCARE was rated 3.91 of 5 overall on the uMARS. Of the 31 users, 25 (80%) would definitely use FluCARE for future outbreaks, and all users agreed that the app was useful for identifying influenza and COVID-19 outbreaks at their facilities. There were no reported critical issues with incorrect or missed outbreak detection. User training, particularly online training modules, and technical support were identified as key facilitators to FluCARE use.

CONCLUSIONS

FluCARE is an acceptable, useful, and safe app to assist ACF staff with early detection and response to influenza and COVID-19 outbreaks. This study supports feasibility for ongoing implementation and efficacy evaluation, followed by scale-up into other health districts in New South Wales.
Inkubasi Usaha Kemitraan untuk Mendukung Wisata Alam Berkelanjutan di Desa Tlogo, Wonosobo
Authors: Nugroho Adi , Setyawijaya NP Aziz , Safitri Shavira Nofi , Prastuti Suryaning , Ridho M. Taufik , Putri Ayu Dini Kartika
Published: March 2022

Sustainable tourism maintains the balance between environment, social and economy. Sustainable tourism development requires participation from broader group of people. The program aims to develop community economic business partnerships as a suporting system for an ecotourism site, as what has been implemented in Wisata Alam Seroja which is located in Tlogo, Wonosobo. The village is situated in the hills of Dieng and has views of the Telogo Menjer and the nature of Bukit Seroja. The destination has been opened since 2015 and has only benefited the Tourism Awareness Community Group (Kelompok Sadar Wisata or POKDARWIS). The development of sustainable nature tourism is expected to provide and to make an impact for wider community. Incubation method was employed to empower the Community Economic Business Group (Kelompok Usaha Ekonomi Masyarakat Desa or KUEMD). The KUEMD consists of POKDARWIS, farmer group, culinary group, art group and craft group. The program was held from January 2019 to February 2020 and as a result the partnership of the KUEMD of Tlogo is able to become a support system for Wisata Alam Seroja. The program has also successfully connected Wisata Alam Seroja with two tourism marketplaces; Traval.co and Selenago.com.