bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anonymous Online Treatment and Prevention of Shift Work Sleep Disorder in Companies
Authors: Peter Lukas , Reindl Richard , Zauter Sigrid , Hillemacher Thomas , Richter Kneginja
Published: June 2019

In western societies about one in six employees works in shifts. Shiftwork is associated with a number of poor somatic and psychological health outcomes, especially sleep issues. Higher rates of absenteeism and accidents in the workplace are possible consequences. Still, prevention programs and treatment options that are specifically tailored to shift workers’ needs are rare. We devised a 4-week online sleep intervention (n = 21) and compared treatment outcomes to our outpatient treatment for shift workers (n = 12). Measures included the WHO-5. ISI, and ESS scales as well as sleep protocols. Shift workers reported worse symptoms of insomnia than other participants. Results show significant average increases in sleep efficiency (+ 7%) and total sleep time (+ 25 min.), as well as significant improvements regarding insomnia symptoms and wellbeing in the online sample. Rates of improvement did not differ between the online and outpatient samples. Sleep disorders affect a relevant part of the working population, especially shift workers. Online approaches to treatment of these issues seem feasible and effective. Randomized controlled trials are needed.
Anonymous Online Treatment and Prevention of Shift Work Sleep Disorder in Companies
Authors: Peter Lukas , Reindl Richard , Zauter Sigrid , Hillemacher Thomas , Richter Kneginja
Published: June 2019

In western societies about one in six employees works in shifts. Shiftwork is associated with a number of poor somatic and psychological health outcomes, especially sleep issues. Higher rates of absenteeism and accidents in the workplace are possible consequences. Still, prevention programs and treatment options that are specifically tailored to shift workers’ needs are rare. We devised a 4-week online sleep intervention (n = 21) and compared treatment outcomes to our outpatient treatment for shift workers (n = 12). Measures included the WHO-5, ISI, and ESS scales as well as sleep diaries. Shift workers reported worse symptoms of insomnia than other participants. Results show significant average increases in sleep efficiency (+ 7%) and total sleep time (+ 25 min.), as well as significant improvements regarding insomnia symptoms and wellbeing in the online sample. Rates of improvement did not differ between the online and outpatient samples. Sleep disorders affect a relevant part of the working population, especially shift workers. Online approaches to treatment of these issues seem feasible and effective. Randomized controlled trials are needed.
Evaluation of the Genomic Basis for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Diseases
Authors: Rana Pratip , Franco Edian F. , Rao Yug , Syed Khajamoinuddin , Barh Debmalya , Azevedo Vasco , Ramos Rommel T. J. , Ghosh Preetam
Published: June 2019

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are the most common neurodegenerative disorders related to aging. Though several risk factors are shared between these two diseases, the exact relationship between these two diseases is still unknown. In this paper, we analyzed how these diseases relate to each other from a genomics viewpoint. Using an extensive literature search, we accumulated the list of genes from the major genome-wide association (GWAS) studies. However, we found only one gene (HLA-DRB5) reported in these GWAS studies that are common between AD and PD. We also listed all the miRNAs that have been previously reported for AD and PD. Here we found 15 different miRNAs that were reported in both diseases. In order to get better insights, we predicted the gene coexpression network for both AD and PD. Network analysis on these networks show six clusters of genes related to AD and four clusters of genes related to PD.
Computational Simulation of PT6A Gas Turbine Engine Operating with Different Blends of Biodiesel: A Transient-Response Analysis
Authors: Solís Chaves Juan Sebastián , Bayona Camilo , Bonilla Javier , Castellanos Diego
Published: June 2019

A computational simulation of a PT6A gas turbine engine operating at off-design conditions is described in the present article. The model consists of a 0-dimensional thermo-fluidic description of the engine by applying the mass, linear momentum, angular momentum, and energy balances in each engine's component. The transient behavior of the engine is simulated for different blends of the original JET-A1 fuel with bio-diesel. Simulated thermodynamic variables of the air at each engine's component, as well as some performance parameters correspond to the reported experimental measurements. The numerical results also demonstrate the ability of the computational simulation to predict acceptable fuel blends, such that the efficiency of the engine is maximized and its structural integrity is maintained.
Methods for Simultaneous Robot-World Hand-Eye Calibration: A Comparative Study
Authors: Ali Ihtisham , Suominen Olli , Gotchev Atanas , Ruiz Morales Emilio
Published: June 2019

In this paper, we propose two novel methods for robot-world/hand-eye calibration and provide a comparative analysis against six state-of-the-art methods. We examine the calibration problem from two alternative geometrical interpretations, called hand-eye and robot-world-hand-eye, respectively. The study analyses the effects of specifying the objective function as pose error or reprojection error minimization problem. We provide three real and three simulated datasets with rendered images as part of the study. In addition, we propose a robotic arm error modeling approach to be used along with the simulated datasets for generating a realistic response. The tests on simulated data are performed in both ideal cases and with pseudo-realistic robotic arm pose and visual noise. Our methods show significant improvement and robustness on many metrics in various scenarios compared to state-of-the-art methods.
IMPROVEMENT OF TEACHER CREATIVITY THROUGH TRAINING OF LEARNING MEDIA FROM BAMBOO BASED LOCAL WISDOM IN KECAMATAN SELO-BOYOLALI
Authors: Ningtyas Dhita Paranita
Published: June 2019

Learning media is one of supporting teaching and facilitate children to understand the learning given, Selo sub-district under the foot of Mount Merapi and merbabu which has a natural wealth of bamboo trees are abundant so it can be utilized as the main ingredient of making APE media for supporting learning in early childhood that are In Selo Boyolali sub-district.This research aims to make training of Educational Game Equipment development by using bamboo natural materials that are widely available in Selo Boyolali area and can be used as learning media in early childhood that can be integrated in accordance with the theme of learning. The research approach uses action research to see the results of improving the ability of teachers to increase in creativity make APE after the training held to make APE media with bamboo materials. The findings of this research, APE Media from bamboo can be used as the main media of APE for learning, so that it has an effect to improve teacher ability in making Educational Game Tool by using material from local wealth, as well as the increasing ability of teachers in creating using the media from natural materials.

 

 

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License
 
METACOGNITIVE LEARNING STRATEGY: IN SEARCH OF THEORETICAL MODEL FOR READING COMPREHENSION
Authors: Riyadi Iswan , Hersulastuti Hersulastuti , Nugrahaningsih Theresia Kriswianti
Published: June 2019

This paper was presented on the basic of senior high school teachers’ complaint over the implementation of scientific- based approach in 2013 Indonesian National Curriculum. Their path to successful learning is obstructed by the discontinuity of five stages of scientific- based approach which comprises of observing, questioning, associating, experimenting, and networking. This study was aimed at developing a theoretical model of reading comprehension based on metacognitive learning strategies. Descriptive qualitative approach was carried out to determine some possible theories which might lead to coin the theoretical model of reading comprehension based on metacognitive learning strategies for Indonesian students of Senior High School. Results of the study showed that underlining, note taking, summarizing, concept mapping might also be instantly working together to help senior high school students get the text content well-comprehended.

 

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License
 
THE FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE AND LOCALLY GENERATED REVENUE EFFECTIVENESS KLATEN REGENCY FROM 2002 TO 2010
Authors: Nurjanati Dwi
Published: June 2019

Klaten has high potential areas covering the industrial sector, tourism, entertainment, agriculture, and others. In 2010 there were 285 industrial with a total of 9,254 businesses and employed 38,388 workers, 126 large and medium industrial and 32,798 small scale. The high potential of regions supported by a good government performance will result in high local revenues. This research purpose are (1) to know the factors that influence locally generated revenue in Klaten Regency, (2) to know that the regional tax, retribution area, regional factory profit, and the others income legally factors are influential as partial and simultaneous to locally generated revenue, (3) to know the factors that the most potential result locally generated revenue in Klaten Regency from 2002 to 2010, (4) to know the most effectiveness result of locally generated revenue between from 2002 to 2010. The research used descriptive quantitative method which used is secondary’s data shaped target and realization of locally generated revenue in Klaten Regency from 2002 to 2010 as representation of the local government performance. Technique of analyzing data which used is technique of double linier regression analysis and effectiveness analysis. The conclusion of the research are (1) based on test of double linier regression analysis about the factors that influence locally generated revenue show us that the regional tax, retribution area, regional factory profit, and the others income legally factors are influential as partial and simultaneous to locally generated revenue in Klaten Regency, (2) based on test of effectiveness analysis locally generated revenue show us that management of the financial from 2002 to 2010 called effective, (3) variable that have the most influence to locally generated revenue in Klaten Regency is the local tax as big as 0,339, (4) based on test of effectiveness anlysis that locally generated revenue show the highest effectiveness level take place on 2006 as big as 110,44%. The academic implications from this research are as a reference to further research on locally generated revenue. Practical implications for local government is as a reference government in making policies to maximize the acquisition of regional tax so that locally generated revenue can be increased.

 

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License
 
THE DEVELOPMENT OF LEARNING MODEL BASED ON PHILOSOPHICAL VALUES OF ATOIN METO TATTOO THROUGH VALUE CLARIFICATION TECHNIQUE (VCT) AND JIGSAW TO IMPROVE CULTURAL CONSCIOUSNESS IN THE STUDENTS OF SMA NEGERI 1 MOLLO SELATAN
Authors: Neolaka Stevridan Yantus , Mulyoto Mulyoto , Musadad Akhmad Arif
Published: June 2019

This study aims to obtain a values-based learning model history - philosophical tattoo Atoin Meto to raise awareness of the local culture of the students, using the approach to research and development (R & D) with Jigsaw strategies and approaches that can be used values clarification in history. It consists of three phases namely the introduction, development, and testing. Preliminary study include literature studies and field studies (literature includes theories, concepts, relevant research results. The field study covering the curriculum, teachers, schools, infrastructure characteristics of the students). The technique of collecting data through questionnaires, observation, interviews, documentation and testing. Analysis of the data used is descriptive analysis, feasibility analysis model based on ratings validator. From the results of expert assessment of the material by 90% "good" category, expert models by 85% "good" category, a linguist at 100%, the category of "very good", an instrument by 85% "good" category. Based on an assessment conducted by a team of experts concluded that the learning model has met the eligibility criteria so that it can be used in the process of teaching history.

 

 

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License
 
ECO LEARNING AND HANDICRAFT PLASTIC TRASH TO EDUCATE CHILDREN IN TAMBAK LOROK VILLAGE, SEMARANG
Authors: Sawitri Dewi , Afa Ihdayani Banun , Yuliyanti Tri , Riyadi Deni Faizal Zulang , Setyawan Imam
Published: June 2019

Tambak Lorok is one of the coastal areas in Semarang city which is located along the Banger River, Tanjung Mas district. Tambak Lorok environment is included as a dirty and improper environment for habitation due to the high amount of stingy trash. In fact, the use of plastic and bottle plastic is constantly increasing from year to year. As result, this certainly causes complex problems for both prevention and handling. Because of its characteristic which is difficult to be decomposed by natural decomposer, plastics become the most common and dangerous soil polutor. Using the plastic trash become handcraft is an effort to minimize the disposal of plastics and to save energy resources in a certain extent and to reduce the dependency of imported raw materials. Utilization of plastic trash on a household scale can be done by reusing plastic trash for different purposes, e.g. wall paint places which is made from plastics can be used for piggy bank, verticulture or pencil case. This handicraft from plastic trash is intended for 22 elementary school children in Tambak Lorok village. It can enable them to develop their creativity as well as to have awareness in maintaining environmental hygiene in order to realize Tambak lorok as a marine tourism spot and to support government program for Indonesia free of waste in 2020. Environmental education (eco learning) is very important, especially to maintain the eco-system and environment of the community of Tambak Lorok. Therefore, we try to combine the application of environment-based learning and make handicraft to overcome the problems above. Environmental education by utilizing plastic trash thoroughly is expected to be a stimulus in empowering Tambak Lorok villager as a mean of awareness of the children to the environment and to assist the community in optimizing plastic trash so that people have the ability and potential in fostering environmental care and creative characters.

 

 

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License
 
RESOURCES AND COMMUNICATIONS OPTIMALIZATION IN EDUCATIONAL MARKETING STRATEGY
Authors: Zuhaeda Noor Fuadiyah
Published: June 2019

In the era of globalization, adopting the concept of business marketing to face competition among educational institutions is something that cannot be avoided. The public demand for high-quality education, satisfactory customer service, and school’s resources become the basis of consideration for the educational institution in determining its marketing strategy. Optimal educational resources management and institution’s ability to communicate with customers and communities are the keys to effectively implement educational marketing strategies. The purpose of this paper using literature review methodology is to obtain a thorough understanding of resource optimization in education marketing strategies as an effort to increase customer and maintain customer loyalty.

 

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License
 
The Use of Learning Media by Junior High School Teachers of Science in Tanjungpinang and Bintan
Authors: Nevrita Nevrita
Published: June 2019

Place of research  in some of SMP Negeri in Tanjungpinang and Bintan. The population is all science teachers of SMP Negeri in Tanjungpinang and Bintan while the sample in this study consists of eight Junior High Schools located in Tanjungpinang and four Junior High Schools in Bintan.This study aims to determine the use of learning media by science teachers in Tanjungpinang and Bintan and constraints faced by teachers regarding the use of learning media. Sampling technique in this research is simple random sampling. While type of research is descriptive. Data collection was obtained through questionnaires, interviews and documentation. Questionnaire contains ten questions using a Guttman scale consisting of “yes” and “no” questions.Data collection is also done by interviewing teachers to find out the constraints found by teachers during the learning process takes place. Other data collection techniques are done by looking at the RPP created by teachers on the learning media used.The results obtained an average of 69.16% of teachers use learning media during the learning process took place. From the average results seen that not all teachers of IPA in SMP Negeri Tanjungpinang and Bintan use learning media during the learning-teaching process.While the expectations at this time in accordance with the demands of the curriculum that during the learning process should use learning media. The results from the questionnaires obtained data about the constraints found in the teacher's use or to use the learning media.The results obtained by analyzing the RPP turns out that teachers write the media used in each meeting, this is not in accordance with the fact of the average outcomes. There should be a policy from government and school to overcome these obstacles. Further research that I suggest is to know the creativity of teachers in making learning media.
The Effectiveness of Discovery Learning to Improve Critical Thinking Skills College Student on Mastery of Arrhenius Acid Base
Authors: Rudibyani Ratu Betta
Published: June 2019

The Effectiveness of Discovery learning to Improve  Critical Thinking Skills college student on Mastery of Arrhenius Acid-Base. This research was aimed to describe the effectiveness of discovery learning to improving critical thinking skills on mastery of Arrhenius acid-base. The renewal of this research is the integration of discovery learning models, The 2013 curriculum structure, Arrhenius acid-base material with aspects of critical thinking skills according by Ennis.This research used quasi-experiment with pretest-postest non-equivalent control group design. The population in this research is all college students of Master Program of Chemistry Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Lampung University  Academic year 2017/2018. The sample is taken by cluster random sampling technique and obtained sample that is class A as experiment class were 31 students  and Class B as control class was 30 students. The results showed that the effectiveness of discovery learning by n-Gain value had high criteria and effect size had large criteria. Based on the result of this research shown that discovery learning effective and have a high effect size in improving  critical  thinking skills  on mastery of Arrhenius acid base.
The SOI Model of Learning: Bridging Cognitive Processes of Knowledge Construction in Disruptive Era
Authors: Winarsih Dwi
Published: June 2019

Due to the fact that Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FTTE) has to prepare students to be competent teachers by engaging their knowledge with current demands and to conduct their tasks ethically in teaching practice, this study reveals a report of qualitative study that employs an action and qualitative study that explore how the SOI model of learning bridging teacher students’ cognitive processes of knowledge construction and their teaching competencies to face disruptive era in microteaching course. The subjects were 22 English Department students of semester 6 in a Public University who took microteaching. The qualitative data were collected in documentation, weekly-journals, observation, and video. Stimulated recall technique was also used to reflect on the video materials that they had to follow-up interviews. Data analysis shows that findings contribute significantly to understand constructivist learning occurs when a learner engages in three cognitive processes. They are first selecting or attending to relevant information about content knowledge of lesson, teaching methodology, students, curriculum, and technology, second, organizing or mentally organize information into a coherent mental representation, and third, integrating or integrate information of disruptive issues with existing knowledge of content knowledge of the lesson and teaching methodology. These improve teaching competencies of teacher students that help them to tailor and to drive instruction of TEFL. The implication shows that SOI offers a new vision of the learner as an active sense-maker to achieve adaptability skill.
Implementation of Financial Literacy Education On Accounting Education Students Through University-Bank Partnership to Reduce Student’s Consumtive Behavior
Authors: Efita Sari Dhany
Published: June 2019

A country’s financial sector is evaluated based on the level of public financial literacy, which is good if the percentage at least 30%. However, the OJK survey in 2016 indicated the Indonesian financial literacy is low (21.8%). People with the culture of financial literacy are expected to appropriately manage inflation issue, and family and personal budgets including financial assets and debt management, in order to improve their lives. Particularly for the younger generations, the financial literacy in daily implementation is crucial. In fact, most of them, especially students, indicated consumptive, glamorous attitudes and low saving habit. This study aimed to describe the implementation of financial literacy education on the students of Accounting Education, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta through University-Bank Partnership Program. This research is a literature study using qualitative approach. It was done by examining and analyzing the prevailing problems based on the existing literature. Based on the analysis, it can be concluded that consumptive behavior can be reduced by providing financial literacy education in Higher Education. The program include: (1) provision of financial literacy education through financial literacy car, (2) simulation of banking products, (3) preparation of financial literacy content in the curriculum, (4) provision of technical assistance in facilitating educational institutions, (5) thematic community service program on financial literacy, and (6) provision of OJK outlets in universities. Essentially, this program is expected to reduce student’s consumptive behavior and enhance financial literacy among the younger generations.
Students’ Lived Experience of Using Seesaw Class Application in English I Class
Authors: Ratnaningsih Paskalina Widiastuti
Published: June 2019

This paper aims at discovering students’ lived experience in using Seesaw Class application in English I Class. Seesaw Class is an application for teaching-learning in the smartphone. Applications are used as the media for learning in the present era. Seesaw Class application is used to enhance English skills and components during teaching-learning activities. Various features in Seesaw Class application provide more space for students to express their ideas. The method used is a hermeneutic- phenomenology method. It focuses on the description and interpretation of lived experience. The data were gathered with in- depth interview, observation, and document review. The research was validated with triangulation. The research results are divided into empirical themes and transcendent themes. Meaning in each theme is revealed with deep understanding of the research and has the implication in the practice area. The concept discovered in this study is explained in a Venn diagram and has the implication in the theory area.
Motivation System for Students to Learn Control Engineering and Image Processing
Authors: Rahok Sam Ann , Oneda Hirohisa , Osawa Shigeji , Ozaki Koichi ,   National Institute of Technology, Oyama College 771 Nakakuki, Oyama, Tochigi 323-0806, Japan,   National Institute of Technology, Yuge College 1000 Yuge, Kamijima, Ehime 794-2593, Japan,   Utsunomiya University 712 Yoto, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-8585, Japan
Published: June 2019

Our aim was to motivate students to study control engineering and image processing. To this end, we designed a motivation system based on the ARCS model, developed by John M. Keller, to motivate learners. We used a drone as the control object. The ARCS model consists of four steps: attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction. The control process is performed by capturing images from the drone’s camera on a PC via Wi-Fi, and detecting a target color using an image processing technique. Then, the PC sends the control inputs from a PID controller back to the drone to track the target color by keeping it at the center of the images. With this system, students can gain knowledge on control engineering and image processing by tuning the parameters of PID controller and image processing, and observing the responses of the drone. To assess the effectiveness of our system, we requested 150 first-grade technical college students, who had no prior knowledge of control engineering and image processing, to attend our lecture. After the lecture, the students were asked to answer a questionnaire on their interests. The result demonstrated that over 80% of them expressed an interest in learning these two techniques.
The Effect of Item Weighting on Reliability and Validity
Authors: KILIÇ Abdullah Faruk , DOĞAN Nuri
Published: June 2019

The purpose
of this study is to examine the effect of the item weighting method developed
by researchers on the construct validity of the test. For this purpose, a Monte
Carlo simulation study was carried out. Test length, average factor loadings,
and sample size were considered as simulation conditions. Item weighting method
was defined as follows: If average score of the individuals (calculated as
individual's test score/the number of items) plus item difficulty index is 1
and over then item reliability index added to individual’s item score (1 or 0);
if not, then the item score of the individual (1 if 1, 0 if 0) is preserved. As
a result of the research, it was observed that the weighting method contributes
to the construct validity. According to the results of confirmatory factor
analysis, the comparative fit index (CFI) and the root mean square error of
approximation (RMSEA) values were improved. According to the research findings,
the weighting method used in this research can be recommended.
Role of PRY-1/Axin in heterochronic miRNA-mediated seam cell development
Authors: Mallick Avijit , Ranawade Ayush , Gupta Bhagwati P
Published: June 2019

Background

Caenorhabditis elegans seam cells serve as a good model to understand how genes and signaling pathways interact to control asymmetric cell fates. The stage-specific pattern of seam cell division is coordinated by a genetic network that includes WNT asymmetry pathway components WRM-1, LIT-1, and POP-1, as well as heterochronic microRNA (miRNAs) and their downstream targets. Mutations in pry-1, a negative regulator of WNT signaling that belongs to the Axin family, were shown to cause seam cell defects; however, the mechanism of PRY-1 action and its interactions with miRNAs remain unclear.

Results

We found that pry-1 mutants in C. elegans exhibit seam cell, cuticle, and alae defects. To examine this further, a miRNA transcriptome analysis was carried out, which showed that let-7 (miR-48, miR-84, miR-241) and lin-4 (lin-4, miR-237) family members were upregulated in the absence of pry-1 function. Similar phenotypes and patterns of miRNA overexpression were also observed in C. briggsae pry-1 mutants, a species that is closely related to C. elegans. RNA interference-mediated silencing of wrm-1 and lit-1 in the C. elegans pry-1 mutants rescued the seam cell defect, whereas pop-1 silencing enhanced the phenotype, suggesting that all three proteins are likely important for PRY-1 function in seam cells. We also found that these miRNAs were overexpressed in pop-1 hypomorphic animals, suggesting that PRY-1 may be required for POP-1-mediated miRNA suppression. Analysis of the let-7 and lin-4-family heterochronic targets lin-28 and hbl-1 showed that both genes were significantly downregulated in pry-1 mutants, and furthermore, lin-28 silencing reduced the number of seam cells in mutant animals.

Conclusions

Our results show that PRY-1 plays a conserved role to maintain normal expression of heterochronic miRNAs in nematodes. Furthermore, we demonstrated that PRY-1 acts upstream of the WNT asymmetry pathway components WRM-1, LIT-1, and POP-1, and miRNA target genes in seam cell development.
Effectiveness of Group Problem Management Plus (Group-PM+) for adults affected by humanitarian crises Nepal: study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial (c-RCT)
Authors: Hof E van 't , Sangraula Manaswi , Luitel Nagendra P , Turner Elizabeth L. , Marahatta Kedar , Ommeren Mark van , Shrestha Pragya , Bryant Richard , Kohrt Brandon A. , Jordans Mark J. D.
Published: June 2019

Background
Globally, the lack of availability of psychological services for people exposed to adversities has led to the development of a range of scalable psychological interventions with features that enable better scale-up. Problem Management Plus (PM+) is a brief intervention of 5 sessions that can be delivered by non-specialists. It is designed for people in communities in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) affected by any kind of adversity. Two recent randomized controlled trials in Pakistan and Kenya demonstrated the effectiveness of individually delivered PM+. A group version of PM+ has been developed to make the intervention more scalable and acceptable. This paper describes the protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial (c-RCT) on locally adapted Group PM+ in Nepal.
Methods: This c-RCT will compare Group PM+ to enhanced usual care (EUC) in participants with high levels of psychological distress recruited from the community. The study is designed as a two-arm, single-blind c-RCT that will be conducted in a community-based setting in Morang, a flood affected district in Eastern Nepal. Randomization will occur at ward level, the smallest administrative level in Nepal, with 72 enrolled wards allocated to Group PM+ or to EUC (ratio 1:1). Group PM+ consists of five approximately 2.5 hour sessions, in which participants are taught techniques to manage their stressors and problems, and is delivered by trained and supervised community psychosocial workers (CPSWs). EUC consist of a meeting with (a) basic information on adversity and mental health, (b) benefits of getting support, (c) information on seeking services from local health facilities with mhGAP-trained staff. The primary outcome measure is levels of individual psychological distress 20 weeks after baseline, measured by the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Secondary outcome measures include levels of functioning, depressive symptoms, post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, levels of social support, somatic symptoms and ways of coping. We hypothesize that skills acquired will mediate any impact of the intervention.
Discussion: This c-RCT will contribute to the growing evidence-base for transdiagnostic psychological interventions delivered by non-specialists for people in communities affected by adversity. If Group PM+ is proven effective the intervention manual will be released for use giving the opportunity to further adaptation and implementation of the intervention in diverse settings with communities that require better access to psychological interventions.
Intra-specific comparison of mitochondrial genomes reveals host gene fragment exchange via intron mobility in Tremella fuciformis Brief Intron variation in mitochondrial genomes of Tremella fuciformis
Authors: Deng Youjin , Zhang Xunxiao , Xie Baogui , Lin Longji , Hsiang Tom , Lin Xiangzhi , Lin Yiying , Zhang Xingtan , Ma Yanhong , Miao Wenjing , Ming Ray
Published: June 2019

Background

Mitochondrial genomic sequences are known to be variable. Comparative analyses of mitochondrial genomes can reveal the nature and extent of their variation.

Results

Draft genomes of 16 Tremella fuciformis isolates (TF01-TF16) were assembled from Illumina and PacBio sequencing data. Mitochondrial DNA contigs were extracted and assembled into complete circular molecules, ranging from 35,104 bp to 49,044 bp in size. All mtDNAs contained the same set of 41 conserved genes with identical gene order. Comparative analyses revealed that introns and intergenic regions were variable, whereas genic regions (including coding sequences, tRNA, and rRNA genes) were conserved. Among 24 introns detected, 11 were in protein-coding genes, 3 in tRNA genes, and the other 10 in rRNA genes. In addition, two mobile fragments were found in intergenic regions. Interestingly, six introns containing N-terminal duplication of the host genes were found in five conserved protein-coding gene sequences. Comparison of genes with and without these introns gave rise to the following proposed model: gene fragment exchange with other species can occur via gain or loss of introns with N-terminal duplication of the host genes.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest a novel mechanism of fungal mitochondrial gene evolution: partial foreign gene replacement though intron mobility.
Post-Stroke Patients with Moderate Function Have the Greatest Risk of Falls: A National Cohort Study
Authors: Wei Wycliffe Enli , De Silva Deidre Anne , Chang Hui Meng , Yao Jiali , Matchar David Bruce , Young Sherry Hsueh Yi , See Siew Ju , Lim Gek Hsiang , Wong Ting Hway , Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy
Published: June 2019

Background

Stroke patients have increased risks of falls. We examined national registry data to evaluate the association between post-stroke functional level and the risk of low falls among post-stroke patients.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study analyzed data from national registries to examine the risk factors for post-stroke falls. Data for patients who suffered ischemic strokes and survived the index hospital admission was obtained from the Singapore National Stroke Registry and matched to the National Trauma Registry, from 2011 to 2015. The primary outcome measure was a low fall (fall height ≤0.5m). Competing risk analysis was performed to examine the association between functional level (by modified Rankin score [mRS] at discharge) and the risk of subsequent low falls.

Results

In all, 2,255 patients who suffered ischemic strokes had recorded mRS. The mean age was 66.6 years and 58.5% were men. By the end of 2015, 54 (2.39%) had a low fall while 93 (4.12%) died.

After adjusting for potential confounders, mRS was associated with fall risk with an inverted U-shaped relationship. Compared to patients with a score of zero, the sub-distribution hazard ratio (SHR) increased to a maximum of 3.42 (95%CI:1.21-9.65, p=0.020) for patients with a score of 2. The SHR then declined to 2.45 (95%CI:0.85-7.12, p=0.098), 2.86 (95%CI:0.95-8.61, p=0.062) and 1.93 (95%CI:0.44-8.52, p=0.38) for patients with scores of 3, 4 and 5 respectively.

Conclusions

An inverted U-shaped relationship between functional status and fall risk was observed. This is consistent with the complex interplay between decreasing mobility (hence decreased opportunity to fall) and increasing susceptibility to falls. Fall prevention intervention could be targeted accordingly.
Bus workers’ experiences with and perceptions of a health promotion program: a qualitative study using a focus group discussion
Authors: Pyo Jeehee , Lee Mina , Ock Minsu , Park Gwiok , Yang Dongseok , Park Jungsun , Kim Yangho
Published: June 2019

Background

Transportation workers such as bus workers are considered to be vulnerable workers, with a relatively high risk of industrial accidents. A health promotion program, which included stretching training for musculoskeletal disorder prevention, exercise prescription, and counseling, was developed for transportation workers in Ulsan, South Korea. In this study, a focus group discussion was conducted with bus workers to evaluate their experiences and perceptions, as well as the reasons for their participation in the program for vulnerable workers. The study also sought to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the program.

Methods

A total of nine bus workers participated in the focus group discussion. The focus group discussion was conducted based on a semi-structured guide, which was developed from discussions among the researchers and a review of major preliminary studies. The focus group discussion took about two hours. The discussion was recorded and transcribed, after which data were analyzed using content analysis.

Results

A total of 100 codes were derived and categorized into four main categories as follows: “Obstacles to the healthcare of bus workers,” “The first positive impression of the health promotion program,” “Satisfaction and changes after participating in the health promotion program,” and “Improvement of the health promotion program.” For participants who had not been involved in other health management programs, the sole existence of a health promotion program for vulnerable workers in Ulsan was sufficient to attract participants. Participants reported that participation in the program mitigated some of their musculoskeletal symptoms, which are often faced by bus workers.

Conclusions

The findings of this study may contribute to the expansion of the health promotion program targeting workers in vulnerable working environments in Ulsan and other places. In order to increase users’ satisfaction and the sustainability of the program, it is necessary to develop a strategy to increase the accessibility of the program and enhance the self-efficacy of participants.
Breaking barriers: using the Behavior Change Wheel to develop a tailored intervention to overcome workplace inhibitors to breaking up sitting time
Authors: Ojo Samson O , Bailey Daniel P. , Brierley Marsha L. , Hewson David J. , Chater Angel M.
Published: June 2019

Background

The workplace is a prominent domain for excessive sitting. The consequences of increased sitting time include adverse health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease and poor mental wellbeing. There is evidence that breaking up sitting could improve health, however, any such intervention in the workplace would need to be informed by a theoretical evidence-based framework. The aim of this study was to use the BCW to develop a tailored intervention to reduce workplace sitting in desk-based workers.

Methods

The Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) framework with the COM-B (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation – Behaviour) theoretical model at the hub was used to guide the process of intervention development. Twenty-five office-based workers with high amounts of self-reported workplace sitting were interviewed using questions developed with the TDF.

Results

The majority of participants felt they were physically capable of breaking up their sitting time, while all participants stated the importance of having knowledge regarding both guidelines for sitting time and the consequences of excess sitting. A supportive organisational culture was identified as important, along with the need for environmental context and resources. Both reflective and automatic motivation were identified as potential targets for behaviour change interventions. Seven intervention functions and three policy categories from the BCW were identified as relevant. Finally, 39 behaviour change techniques (BCTs) were identified as potential active components for an intervention to break up sitting time in the workplace.

Conclusions

The BCW framework provided a systematic process for developing a theory-driven and co-created intervention packages that can be used to break up and decrease prolonged sitting in office workers. Intervention designers should consider these BCW factors and BCTs when developing interventions to break up workplace sitting.
Use of community assets and the role of contextual factors on the participation of people with disability: results of participatory mapping in Envigado, Colombia
Authors: Toro-Hernandez Maria Luisa , Villa-Torres Laura , Mondragón-Barrera Mónica Alejandra , Camelo-Castillo Wendy
Published: June 2019

Background

Disability is an evolving concept that results from the complex interaction between a person with an impairment and the context in which he/she lives. There is limited understanding on the types, access and use of community assets valuable for people with disabilities, and the role of contextual factors. Our goal with this work was to identify access and use of community assets, and the role of contextual factors among people with disabilities, and the perspectives of rehabilitation professionals, residents of a suburban area in Colombia.

Methods

Using participatory mapping, a community based participatory approach, we carried out an assessment of community assets identified by people with disabilities and rehabilitation professionals. In-depth interviews informed the design of two asset mapping activities, one among people with disabilities (n=5) and a second with rehabilitation professionals (n=4).

Results

Main findings indicate a chain of contextual factors that limit access and use of assets stemming from the personal (e.g. financial resources, inaccessible housing), interpersonal level (e.g. lack of a personal assistance or aid), and community levels (e.g. lack of accessible public transportation and inaccessible buildings). In most cases these barriers are heightened by system level barriers (e.g. lack of effective enforcement of the legal framework).

Conclusions

Identifying these contextual factors, and their interactions, call for stronger enforcement of the existing legal framework through articulated work between different stakeholders so persons with disabilities can enjoy community assets.
Strengthening Community-Clinical Linkages to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Rural NC: Feasibility Phase of the CHANGE Study
Authors: Samuel-Hodge Carmen D , Gizlice Ziya , Allgood Sallie D , Bunton Audrina J , Erskine Amber , Leeman Jennifer , Cykert Samuel
Published: June 2019

Background

Community Health Workers (CHW) are recommended for delivery of interventions to prevent cardiovascular disease, but there is insufficient evidence from interventions conducted in rural, medically underserved areas.

Methods

Using a hybrid implementation-effectiveness design, we evaluated the implementation and effectiveness of an adapted, evidence-based cardiovascular disease risk reduction intervention among rural high-risk adults. CHWs at a community health center and local health department recruited, enrolled and counseled participants during 4 monthly home visits and 3 brief phone contacts. Participant data collection included pre- and post-intervention measurements of blood pressure, weight, and dietary and physical activity behaviors. We evaluated implementation with measures of intervention reach and delivery fidelity. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and paired t-tests.

Results

Study participants (n=105) had a mean age of 62 years and included 88% Non-Hispanic Blacks and 82% females. Recruitment strategies resulted in the enrollment of 38% of interested and eligible participants who received 80% of the planned intervention visits and phone contacts. Mean differences in pre-/post-intervention measures showed significant mean reductions in blood pressure (-5.4 mm Hg systolic, p=.006; -2.3 mm Hg diastolic, p=.04) and body weight (-3.8 lb., p=.02). Self-reported dietary and physical activity behaviors also improved significantly.

Conclusion

This feasibility study demonstrated preliminary implementation and program effectiveness of a CHW-delivered intervention to reduce cardiovascular disease risk factors. Additionally, it identified areas for future refinements to strategies that strengthening community-clinical linkages with an integrated role of CHWs in rural health care delivery. If results from this feasibility study can be enhanced in a larger sample, there would be significant potential to positively impact the excess burden of chronic diseases that adversely impact rural, low-income, and medically underserved populations.
The Bucket Test Differentiates Patients with MRI Confirmed Brainstem/Cerebellar Lesions from Patients Having Migraine and Dizziness Alone
Authors: Chang Tzu-Pu , Winnick Ariel A , Hsu Yung-Chu , Sung Pi-Yu , Schubert Michael C
Published: June 2019

Background: Amongst the most challenging diagnostic dilemmas managing patients with vestibular symptoms (i.e. vertigo, nausea, imbalance) is differentiating dangerous central vestibular disorders from benign causes. Migraine has long been recognized as one of the most common causes of vestibular symptoms, but the clinical hallmarks of vestibular migraine are notoriously inconsistent and thus the diagnosis is difficult to confirm. Here we conducted a prospective study investigating the sensitivity and specificity of combining standard vestibular and neurological examinations to determine how well central vestibular disorders (CVD) were distinguishable from vestibular migraine (VM).
Method: Thirty symptomatic patients diagnosed with CVD and 36 symptomatic patients with VM underwent brain imaging and clinical assessments including; 1) SVV bucket test, 2) ABCD2, 3) headache/vertigo history, 4) presence of focal neurological signs, 5) nystagmus, and 6) clinical head impulse testing.
Results: Mean absolute SVV deviations measured by bucket testing in CVD and VM were 4.8±4.0° and 0.7±1.0°, respectively. The abnormal rate of SVV deviations (>2.3°) in CVD was significantly higher than VM (p<0.001). Using the bucket test alone to differentiate CVD from VM, sensitivity was 73.3%, specificity 91.7%, positive likelihood ratio (LR+) 8.8, and negative likelihood ratio (LR-) 0.3. However, when we combined the SVV results with the clinical exam assessing gaze stability (nystagmus) with an abnormal focal neurological exam, the sensitivity (93.3%) and specificity (88.9%) were optimized (LR+ (8.4), LR- (0.08)).
Conclusion: The SVV bucket test is a useful clinical test to distinguish CVD from VM, particularly when interpreted along with the results of a focal neurological exam and clinical exam for nystagmus.