bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reliability and construct validity of the new region-specific PBM AP-7D developed in East and Southeast Asia
Authors: Shiroiwa Takeru , Murata Tatsunori , Fukuda Takashi
Published: December 2022

Background: The AP-7D is a preference-based measure newly developed in East and Southeast Asia. This study aimed to show the psychometric properties of the new instrument.
Methods: Surveys were conducted in Japan, Korea, China, Thailand, and Singapore. In each country, 500 respondents were selected by quota sampling and stratified by sex and age. We conducted a face-to-face survey in Japan and a web-based survey in the other countries at two time points. The AP-7D and the EQ-5D-5L were collected from all countries, and the SF-6D was collected only in Japan. The reliability of the instruments was confirmed by comparing responses based on self-report test-retest methods. Regarding construct validity, we compared responses to the AP-7D with those of the EQ-5D-5L and the SF-6D based on predetermined hypotheses.
Results: The percentage of agreement between the two surveys was 73.9% (pain/discomfort), 71.2% (anxiety/depression), 68.6% (energy), 89.6% (mobility), 82.1% (work/school), 84.3% (social relations), and 86.4% (burden to others) in five countries. These values were comparable with those of the EQ-5D-5L. The kappa coefficients of the AP-7D items were similar to those of the EQ-5D-5L. According to the correlation matrix between the AP-7D and EQ-5D-5L, correlation exceeded 0.5 in the following items: 0.69 between “mental health” (AP-7D) and “anxiety/depression” (EQ-5D-5L), 0.54 between both “pain/discomfort,” 0.51 between “energy” (AP-7D) and “anxiety/depression” (EQ-5D-5L), and 0.50 between both “mobility.”
Conclusion: The survey results showed good reliability and construct validity of the AP-7D. Basic psychometric properties of the new instrument were confirmed.
Gut Microbiome Profiles Are Related to Atypical Antipsychotic Associated Overweight in Asian Children with Psychiatric Disorder
Authors: Hao Shao-rui , Zhou Yuan-yue , Zhang Xue , Jiang Hai-yin
Published: December 2022

Atypical antipsychotics (APs) modify the gut microbiome, and weight gain in response to AP could be mediated by the gut microbiome. Thus, the present study aimed to explore the changes in the gut bacterial microbiome in AP-exposed children with obesity. To rule out the confounder of AP indication, the gut bacterial microbiome was compared between healthy controls (Con) and AP-exposed individuals with overweight (APO) or normal weight (APN). Fifty-seven AP-treated outpatients (21 APO and 36 APN) and 25 Con were included in this cross-sectional microbiota study. AP users, regardless of body mass index, exhibited decreased microbial richness and diversity and a distinct metagenomic composition compared to the Con. Although no differences in the microbiota structure were observed between APO and APN groups, the APO group was characterised by a higher abundance of Megamonas and Lachnospira. Additionally, the differences in the microbial functions were observed between APO and APN groups. The gut bacterial microbiota of APO children revealed taxonomic and functional differences compared to Con and APN. Further studies are needed to verify these findings and to explore the temporal and causal relationships between these variables.
Validation of in vitro and in vivo personalized cancer treatment assays for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wahbi Wafa , Korelin Katja , Sieviläinen Meri , Karihtala Peeter , Wilkman Tommy , Tarkkanen Jussi , Salo Tuula , Al-Samadi Ahmed
Published: December 2022

Background

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a common cancer with a high heterogeneity and few approved treatments. HNSCC is one of the least explored areas for precision oncology. In this study, we aimed to test the reliability of our three established rapid cancer systemic treatment-testing assays: human tumor-derived matrix (Myogel)-coated well-plates, zebrafish xenografts, and 3D microfluidic chips.

Methods

Chemo-, radio- and targeted-therapy testing in Myogel-coated wells and zebrafish xenografts was conducted nine times using five samples; two primary and three metastatic tumour samples from three HNSCC patients. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMNCs) were isolated from the patients’ blood. The response of the tumour cells to radio-, chemo-, and targeted therapy was tested using Myogel-coated wells and zebrafish larvae xenografts. The tumour cell’s’ response to immunotherapy was tested using 3D microfluidic chips. The cells’ sensitivity to the treatments was compared with the patients’ clinical response. Primary and metastatic tumour tissue-derived DNA samples from two patients underwent whole exome sequencing to compare the mutational profiles of the samples.

Results

Test results were in line with patients’ responses in 7/9 (77%) zebrafish xenograft assays and 5/9 (55%) Myogel-coated wells assays. Immunotherapy testing was done using one metastatic patient sample which matched the patients’ response. Differences in responses to treatments between primary and metastatic samples of the same patient were detected in 50% of the zebrafish larvae assays.

Conclusions

Our results show the potential of using personalized cancer treatment testing assays – specifically zebrafish xenografts that showed a 100% sensitivity in predicting the true positive response – on HNSCC patient samples.
Digital audio watermarking based on the modulation of MCLT-coefficients
Authors:   Emperor Alexander I St. Petersburg State Transport University, Kollar M. E.
Published: December 2022

Audio data hiding techniques have various applications such as audio watermarking and steganography. This article provides a brief description of a new method of digital audio watermarking that has been developed based on a modulated complex lapped transform (MCLT). The new audio watermarking algorithm saves the sound quality of the marked signals. The experimental results show the dependence of the sound quality of the marked audio signal on the parameters of the marking method. Moreover, the results of the experiments show the influence of various attacks on the marked audio signal. Based on conducted experiments, it is concluded that the new method of digital audio watermarking can be used to confirm the authenticity of audio files distributed through the Internet or to confirm the integrity of the transmitted audio files.
Vrednovanje Programa pripreme potencijalnih posvojitelja 4P od strane polaznika programa
Authors:   CZSS Zagreb – Podružnica Obiteljski centar za Grad Zagreb Preobraženska 4/IV, 10 000 Zagreb, Svilar Blažinić Dubravka , Štengl Marko ,   CZSS Zagreb – Podružnica Obiteljski centar za Grad Zagreb Preobraženska 4/IV, 10 000 Zagreb
Published: December 2022

Posvojenje je poseban oblik obiteljsko-pravnog zbrinjavanja i zaštite djece bez odgovarajuće roditeljske skrbi koji posvojiteljima omogućuje roditeljstvo i stjecanje prava na roditeljsku skrb. Prije nego što postanu roditelji, osobe koje se odluče na takav oblik stvaranja i proširenja obitelji, uz prethodnu procjenu prolaze i zakonom obvezan proces pripreme za roditeljstvo. Odredba o obaveznoj pripremi u fokus stavlja edukaciju s namjerom da kroz pripremu posvojitelji postignu realističnija očekivanja u vezi s posvojenjem, unaprijede roditeljske vještine te razumiju specifičnosti posvojiteljskog roditeljstva uz povećanje roditeljske kompetentnosti. U ovom istraživanju ispitano je zadovoljstvo korisnika određenim značajkama Programa pripreme potencijalnih posvojitelja 4P. Analizirani su odgovori 63 polaznica i polaznika. Rezultati istraživanja pokazali su kako polaznici programa 4P smatraju sadržaje i teme obrađene u radionicama iznimno korisnima i praktično primjenjivima te su zadovoljni programom u cjelini. Dodatno je ispitana povezanost programa pripreme potencijalnih posvojitelja s doživljajem roditeljskih kompetencija kod potencijalnih posvojitelja. Provedena je usporedba rezultata Skale procjene roditeljske kompetentnosti na početku i po završetku pohađanja programa 4P po podljestvicama efikasnosti i zadovoljstva. Analiziranjem pitanja na podljestvici efikasnosti uočavaju se značajne razlike na ciljanim pitanjima između procjena prije i poslije pohađanja programa 4P, dok na podljestvici zadovoljstva nije bilo značajnih razlika u samoprocjeni roditeljskih kompetencija. Ključne riječi: posvojenje, edukacija, pripreme, roditeljstvo, roditeljska kompetentnost
Development of an Environmentally Friendly Extraction Method Using Smartphone-Based Digital Images for the Determination of Total Sulfonamides in Meat Samples
Authors: Maroubo Laís , Melchert Wanessa
Published: December 2022

Sulfonamides (SAs) are low-cost synthetic antimicrobials widely used in veterinary and human medicine to treat diseases and prevent infections. However, long periods of exposure to sulfonamides can cause adverse effects such as allergic reactions. This work aims to study dispersive solid-liquid microextraction as an alternative method for extracting total SAs in meat samples. The procedure uses a colorimetric reaction based on the formation of a pink compound (imine salt) to determine total sulfonamides (sulfamethazine, sulfadimethoxine, sulfathiazole) with digital measurements. A linear response was observed between 33-233 μg kg-1 for total sulfonamides, and the coefficient of variation (n = 11; 67 μg kg-1 of total SAs) and the limit of detection were estimated to be 0.63% and 10 μg kg-1, respectively. For a 750 mg meat sample, 0.11 mg of 4-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde, 2.60 mg of sodium dodecyl sulfate, and 275 μL of 1-butanol were consumed per sample, and consequently, generating only 335 μL of residue. Besides this, addition-recovery tests were performed, resulting in a 71-100% recovery range, indicating the trueness of the proposed method.
VALIDITY AND RELIABILITY OF THE TURKISH VERSION OF THE QUESTIONNAIRE FOR PHYSICAL THERAPY STUDENTS’ ATTITUDES TOWARD THEIR PROFESSION AND EDUCATION (Q-PTSAPE)
Authors: TAŞVURAN HORATA Emel , KALKAN Serpil , TAŞKIN Gülşen , TEDLA Jaya Shanker
Published: December 2022

Purpose: This study aimed to assess the validity and reliability of Turkish version of Questionnaire for Physical Therapy Students’ Attitude toward Their Profession and Education (Q-PTSAPE).

Methods: Included in this study were 488 physical therapy students. The content, construct, and known-groups validities were assessed and the cut-off value was calculated. The construct validity of the questionnaire was evaluated by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The Cronbach's alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were calculated for the reliability of the questionnaire.

Results: The content validity index was obtained as 0.97. The construct validity was acceptable (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation=0.061, Comparative Fit Index=0.905, Tucker-Lewis Index=0.892, Goodness of Fit Index=0.887, Normed Fit Index=0.860). Individuals with a Q-PTSAPETurkish score of ≥83.5 have a positive attitude towards their profession and education (p=0.001). Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient was excellent (0.90). ICC values of the questionnaire and its subdivisions were from medium to high (0.521-0.782).

Conclusion: Q-PTSAPE-Turkish was valid and reliable in determining the attitudes of physiotherapy students towards the profession and vocational education.
Study on the water eutrophication evolution characteristics of Junshan Lake
Authors: Huang Wenfu , Liang Ning , Zhou Long , Lu Jiangang
Published: December 2022

In this paper, the comprehensive nutritional status index (TLI) method was utilized to evaluate the water quality and nutritional status of Junshan Lake from 2018 to 2020. Combining the tools of ‘create fishnet’ and ‘inverse distance weight’ in ArcGIS, the spatial distribution map of the comprehensive trophic index of Junshan Lake was generated. The results show that: (1) The water quality of Junshan Lake was deteriorating year by year. The comprehensive nutritional index (TLI) of Junshan Lake in 2018, 2019 and 2020 were 24.12–31.93, 25.27–35.84, and 26.15–46.87, respectively. The nutritional status of Junshan Lake was dominated by Grade I (Oligotropher) in 2018, and by Grade II (Mesotropher) in 2020; the proportion of water in Grade II (Mesotropher) rose from 24.5% in 2018 to 78.6% in 2020; (2) Aquaculture makes a great contribution to the increase in the lake nutrition level, and the comprehensive nutritional index of the aquaculture area is relatively high; (3) The comprehensive nutritional index value of the water body in the southern part of Junshan Lake is higher than that in the northern part, and the risk of converting to Grade III (light eutrophication) is higher.
Therapeutic Effectiveness of Sinensetin Against Cancer and Other Human
Complications: A Review of Biological Potential and Pharmacological Activities
Authors: Patel Dinesh Kumar , Patel Kanika
Published: December 2022

Background:

Plant and their active phytoproducts have been used in modern medicine
and playing an important role in the health sectors since a very early age. Human beings need a
considerable amount of these plant-based phytochemicals for their health. The flavonoidal class
phytochemical is an important class of natural products in modern healthcare because of their different
pharmacological activities and health benefits. Flavonoidal class phytochemicals have been
used to treat diabetes and related secondary complications in humans. Flavonoids have antiapoptotic,
anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant potential in the health sectors.
Sinensetin, also called 3',4',5,6,7-pentametoksiflavon is a colorless compound with a molecular
weight 372.37g/mol and is found to be present in the Orthosiphon stamineus.

Methods:

In the present investigation, we aim to collect scientific information on sinensetin and
analyze it for its biological potential and therapeutic benefits against various types of disorders and
complications. Medicinal importance and pharmacological activities data have been collected and
analyzed in the present work for sinensetin through literature data analysis of different research
works. Google Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were mainly searched to collect
the scientific information in the present work. The present work analyzed sinensetin biological
potential, pharmacological activities, and analytical aspects.

Results:

Literature data analysis of different scientific research works revealed the biological potential
of phytochemicals in medicine, including flavonoids. Sinensetin has anti-tumor, antiinflammatory,
anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, and antibacterial activities through their testing in different
in vitro and in vivo models. Sinensetin has physiological functions, including anti-oxidant, antiinflammation,
and anti-cancer potential in medicine. Scientific data analysis signified the biological
importance of sinensetin against tumors, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, diabetes,
influenza H1N1 infection, obesity, inflammation, colitis, brain disorders, and microbial infections.
Further biological potential of sinensetin on enzymes and angiogenesis has been analyzed in
the present work. Sinensetin was isolated through different analytical and extraction techniques,
including chromatographic techniques.

Conclusion:

Literature data analysis signified sinensetin’s biological potential and pharmacological
activities in medicine.
Phytochemical and Pharmacological Profile of Desmodium styracifolium
(Osbeck) Merr: Updated Review
Authors: Sharma Nidhi , Balkrishna Acharya , Semwal Ankita , Arya Vedpriya
Published: December 2022

Desmodium styracifolium (Osbeck) Merr. is an important traditional medicinal herb documented
in the indigenous medicinal systems and used in many folk medicines to treat various ailments.
D. styracifolium belongs to the legume family Fabaceae (Leguminosae) and is preferably
abundantly found worldwide. The plant possesses various phytochemical and pharmacological activities.
Plant’s phytochemical accouter confers significant therapeutic properties and has been used
traditionally for treating ailments like pyrexia, stranguria, renal calculi, dysuria, and oliguria. Here,
we provide a comprehensive review of scientific findings of D. styracifolium phytoconstituents and
their related anti-hypertensive, anti-oxidant, anti-urolithic and hepatoprotective activities in nonclinical
in-vitro and in-vivo studies. More than 50 chemical compounds have been reported from D.
styracifolium, including flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides, phenols, and phytosterols. This paper
presents a comprehensive analysis of the chemical constituents, pharmacological activities, and ethnomedicinal
uses of D. styracifolium, providing scientific evidence for ethnomedicinal claims and
opening perspectives for future research.
Combating Childhood Cancer: Paediatric Patients Living with Neuroblastoma - Regulatory Ramifications and Roadblocks
Authors: Kurz Manfred
Published: December 2022

This paper relates to Neuroblastoma (NBL), a rare, solid cancer affecting children and aims to describe regulatory obligations to adhere to during development, marketing authorisation application (MAA) and post-authorisation stage. The focus is on European Union (EU) paediatric legislation, although essential US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) elements are briefly outlined. Practical regulatory aspects and reporting requirements, players in the therapeutic area as well as clinical management are described. The feasibility and limitations of future harmonised clinical development are pointed out.
PARENTS’ DECISIONS IN CHOOSING K-12 EDUCATION DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: AN EXPLORATORY FACTOR ANALYSIS
Authors:   Master Management Program, Universitas Ciputra, Indonesia, Harianto Eric , Tambunan Damelina ,   Master Management Program, Universitas Ciputra, Indonesia, Dewi Liliana ,   School Business Management, Universitas Ciputra, Indonesia, Dinata Yuwono Marta ,   Information and Multimedia Technology, Universitas Ciputra, Indonesia, Okuwhere Mirhiga Peter ,   Conventry University, United Kingdom
Published: December 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a major impact on K-12 schools. Therefore it is very important to examine the factors that shape parents’ decisions in choosing K-12 education for their children so that schools can meet parents’ expectations. As a result, student enrolment in K-12 schools can be increased. This study aims to determine the factors that shape parents’ decisions in choosing kindergarten, elementary, junior high, and high school (K-12) education levels for their children in the new normal era. The object of research is the Citra Blessing School in Surabaya. The method used is a quantitative research method. Data collection in this study using questionnaire research. The population is 1,142 parents from K-12. Sampling using a random sampling technique. 797 parents were used as the sample. The analytical method used is exploratory factor analysis (EFA) with the help of the SPSS application. As a result, there is 1 factor that is not appropriate from the 27 initial factors, so 26 factors are used as a factor for parents’ decision-making in choosing K-12 education. These 26 factors form 4 new factors, namely 1. Service and Ambience Excellence; 2. Student Competence; 3. Learning Management System, and 4. School Reputation. This finding becomes a reference for improving the performance of K-12 in Surabaya. In particular, so that the quality of education, the quality of alumni, student admissions, and student enrolment can be improved. It is in order to maintain the continuity of schools, especially K12 schools in the New Normal period. It is a reference for K-12 students to use flip classrooms or blended learning as learning methods during the teaching and learning process. In addition, it motivates K-12 to take part in competitions, thereby increasing the school’s academic achievement.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY, ECONOMIC VALUE ADDED, ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT, AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE: INTELLECTUAL CAPITAL MODERATION
Authors:   Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Riau, Indonesia, Savitri Enni
Published: December 2022

Financial performance is required to evaluate possible economic resource changes and forecast the existing resources’ production potential. This study examines how intellectual capital acts as a buffer between the effects of corporate social responsibility, economic value-added, and pricing risk management on financial performance. The 52 manufacturing enterprises that were listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange between 2016 and 2020 made up the study’s population. Purposive sampling was utilized during sampling. Manufacturing businesses in the consumer goods sector that consistently disclose an exhaustive annual report meet the sample criteria. Based on these standards, 39 businesses were selected for the sample. The method of data processing employs moderate regression analysis (MRA). The findings demonstrated that enterprise risk management, economic value-added, and corporate social responsibility impacted financial performance. The impact of corporate social responsibility on financial performance is strengthened by intellectual capital. The influence of economic value addition and the impact of enterprise risk management on financial performance is strengthened by intellectual capital. The innovative aspect of this study is the non-monetary IC index, which measures intellectual capital.
THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SHARED LEADERSHIP MODEL TO DEVELOP EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE
Authors:   Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia, Cahyaningrum Desy Dwi , Noermijati Noermijati ,   Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia, Khusniyah Nur ,   Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia
Published: December 2022

This study aims to uncover and understand the application of the Shared Leadership pattern in managing PIER, to know the Shared Leadership model applied by management in managing PIER, and to reveal and understand the performance of PIER employees by applying the Shared Leadership pattern. This study uses a qualitative research method of a case study approach. The research informant is the department head and PIER staff. The research findings show that the application of Shared Leadership patterns in improving employee performance is derived from the themes contained in the attributes of Shared Leadership, including learning systems, leadership systems, and motivation systems. Shared Purpose, including personality, attitude, and ability. Social Support, including resources, organisational structure, organisational support, and awards. Voice, including expertise, perception, effort, and individual attributes. Shared purpose, social support and voice can create knowledge-sharing and work environments to improve employee performance. Further studies are needed on shared leadership in the same model applied to different objects.
Social equility and the stateless society
Authors: Flanigan Jessica
Published: December 2022

Social egalitarians should rethink their support for democratic political institutions. The ideal social egalitarian institutional arrangement would be a stateless society. If it were feasible to live without a state, then citizens' subservience to a state could not be justified on the grounds that people were able to influence what the state did. Unfortunately, a stateless society is infeasible. As a matter of non-ideal theory, social egalitarians generally support democratic institutions. But there are four reasons that social egalitarians should not support democracy. First, many of the arguments that social egalitarians cite in favor of democracy appeal to an ideal of democracy, but if ideal institutional arrangements were feasible, then a stateless society would be better. Second, social egalitarians would not support the use of democratic procedures to make collective decisions within the context of private relationships if people could instead decide separately. Third, democratic societies entrench status inequalities between citizens and non-citizens and, at times, between majority groups and minority groups. Though democracy people one kind of equal status, it institutionalizes and intensifies other forms of oppression. Fourth, relative to the status quo, relational egalitarians ought to support less governmental control over people's lives, and that means less democracy.
Three roles of ideal theory
Authors: Moen Lars J. K.
Published: December 2022

Rawlsian ideal theory is meant to perform various roles in non-ideal theory. In this paper, I distinguish between three roles, and I consider the extent to which we can expect ideal theory to perform them. It is meant to serve as a target to guide non-ideal theorising in the long-term. It is also supposed to provide a way of comparing different injustices to tell us which is worst and therefore in most urgent need of a remedy. Finally, ideal theory is the basis for a model of fairness that restricts the set of morally permissible measures in non-ideal theory. I show how the first two roles—the target and urgency roles—are less plausible than the fairness role.
Rawls contra Rawls: legitimacy, normative impact, and the basic structure
Authors: Fornaroli Giulio
Published: December 2022

In this paper, I contrast two approaches to political legitimacy, both influenced by Rawls. One is the classic political liberal picture, according to which a state is legitimate if its “constitutional essentials” could be endorsed by reasonable citizens. The alternative is the idea that what makes a state legitimate is primarily its success at organizing the basic structure in a way that is demonstrably favorable to the governed. Specifically, I suggest that a state is legitimate insofar as it organizes the basic structure in a manner that makes it easier for citizens to behave justly towards one another and adopt autonomous choices. I then move to demonstrate the superiority of this normative impact solution to the problem of legitimacy vis-à-vis political liberalism, even when reasonable disagreement about justice is factored in.
Создание второй нейтринной лаборатории на реакторе СМ-3 с целью увеличения точности эксперимента "Нейтрино-4"
Authors: Серебров А.П. , Ивочкин В.Г. , Самойлов Р.М. , Фомин А.К. , Зиновьев В.Г. , Волков С.С. , Головцов В.Л. , Грузинский Н.В. , Неустроев П.В. , Федоров В.В. , Паршин И.В. , Герасимов А.А. , Зайцев М.Е. , Чайковский М.Е. , Гагарский А.М. , Петелин А.Л. , Ижутов А.Л. , Громов М.О. , Сазонтов С.А. , Тузов А.А. , Рыкалин В.И. , Макаренков Д.А. , Немерюк А.М. , Кузьмина Т.Е.
Published: December 2022

In the experiment "Neutrino-4" on the search for a sterile neutrino, the effect of oscillations was found at a confidence level of 3 standard deviations. In order to significantly increase the accuracy of the experiment, a second neutrino laboratory is created at the SM-3 reactor (Dimitrovgrad, Russia) and a new neutrino detector is developed. The scintillation-type detector consists of 4 modules having a multi-sectional structure with a horizontal arrangement of 100 sections with PMTs located on both sides of the section. The possibility of increasing the accuracy of the experiment by a factor of 2.7 is shown, which will make it possible to achieve a confidence level of more than 5 standard deviations and answer the question of the existence of a sterile neutrino.
Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in Elderly Patients Attending at Tertiary Health Care Centre in Central India During 1st Wave of COVID-19 Pandemic: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Keche Yogendra , Wasneek Preetam , Nagpure Keshao , Gaikwad Nitin , Dhaneria Suryaprakash , Siddiqui Sabah , Joshi Apoorva
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic had imposed a city-level quarantine, local lockdown, and border closures for patient-level isolation to control virus spread. There is a lack of studies on the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in the elderly in countries like India during COVID-19. After obtaining written informed consent from the elderly patients, data was recorded in the case record form-cum-questionnaire. The quality of life was assessed with the help of Centers for disease control and prevention (CDC) HRQoL-14 measures, which are based on general health improvement, physical and mental health, and its effect on usual activities like self-care, work, or play, sadness, depression, worry, tension, or anxiety, and rest or sleep. A total of 331 patients were screened and 234 were enrolled in this study, with 220 patients completing their follow-up. Among them, 55.43% were retired elderly, 31.82% were unemployed and 21.36% were living alone. After one month, 49 patients had days of poor physical health which was significantly below baseline (70 patients). More patients had poor mental health in the first 15 days as compared to the time of recruitment. At end of 1 month, self-care, work, and recreational activities were affected in 11 patients, with a significant reduction from baseline in 21 patients. Elderly patients felt sad and depressed and did not get enough sleep in the first 7 days and were worried, tense and anxious in the initial 15 days, which improved after 1 month. A significant number of patients had improved activity limitations because of the COVID-19 pandemic at the end of 1 month. The COVID-19 pandemic had made a significant impact on physical and mental health. A system of mental and psychological health support for the elderly during isolation should be developed. Engaging the elderly in cognitively stimulating mental exercises through apps, limiting exposure to social media, and setting up helplines for the elderly may be helpful in this regard.
Evaluating Clinician Expectations of mHealth Solutions to Increase Rapid-Screening for HIV and Hepatitis in Migrant Populations in France: Qualitative Study
Authors: Brown Carter , Roucoux Guillaume , Dimi Svetlane , Fahmi Saleh , Jeevan Raj-Banou , Chassany Olivier , Chaplin John , Duracinsky Martin
Published: December 2022

Background

Migrants underuse screening opportunities for HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C despite elevated risk factors for contracting these infections. Language barriers are an often given as reasons for limiting access to services. Translation and communication apps increase communication and overall patient satisfaction in the patient-provider relationship. In the development and adoption of new technology, expectations play an important role.

Objective

This study aimed to explore health care professionals’ opinions and attitudes regarding their screening practices with migrants and their expectations for a new communication tool that could improve migrants’ screening use.

Methods

In this qualitative study, a purposive (diverse) sampling method was used to invite doctors and nurses who conduct rapid screening tests with migrants from 4 centers of the French Office of Immigration and Integration in 3 geographic regions of France. Semistructured interviews were conducted to survey their opinions on the rapid testing of migrants, the use of telephone interpreters, the concept of health literacy, and their expectations of a new communication tool that could overcome language barriers and promote rapid screening in the new migrant population.

Results

In all, 20 interviews were conducted with 11 doctors and 9 nurses with a median age of 58 (range 25-67) years. Participants favored the integration of an innovative communication tool in the context of rapid screening of migrants. However, there were concerns related to the implementation and added value of the tool while migrants were already reluctant to be screened. Expectations were for a tool that would present information in simplified French or a chosen language but also supports a positive attitude toward screening. Health professionals also expressed the wish that the technology could help with the collection of health data.

Conclusions

Feedback from health professionals provides a better understanding of potential formats, characteristics, functions, content, and use of an innovative, digital method to communicate with migrants with limited French proficiency. Findings contribute to the conceptual development of an electronic app and its implementation within the ApiDé study, which aims to validate a digital app to address language barriers to increase the use of screening among migrants with limited French proficiency in France.
A Web-Based Decision Aid for Caregivers of Persons With Dementia With Firearm Access (Safe at Home Study): Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: McCarthy Virginia , Portz Jennifer , Fischer Stacy M , Greenway Emily , Johnson Rachel L , Knoepke Christopher E , Matlock Daniel D , Omeragic Faris , Peterson Ryan A , Ranney Megan L , Betz Marian E
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Firearm safety among individuals with Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD) is an underdiscussed and underresearched concern in the United States, especially given the growing population of community-dwelling adults with ADRD. The “Safety in Dementia” (SiD) web-based decision aid was developed to support caregivers in addressing firearm access; the efficacy of SiD is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

Through the SiD decision aid, the Safe at Home (S@H) study aims to support caregivers in making decisions about home safety that align with their goals and values, and behaviors regarding firearm access for persons with ADRD and firearm access.

METHODS

The S@H study is a 2-armed randomized controlled trial to test the effect of the SiD decision aid on caregivers of community-dwelling adults with ADRD who have firearm access. S@H aims to recruit 500 ADRD caregivers (age ≥18 years, fluent in English or Spanish, and in the United States) through online or social media advertisements and through relevant organizations. Participants are randomized to view SiD or a control website at their own pace; all participants complete web-based questionnaires at baseline, 2 weeks, 2 months, and 6 months. The primary outcome is immediate preparation for decision-making; secondary outcomes include longitudinal decision outcomes and self-reported modifications to firearm access. The relative reach and effectiveness of each recruitment method (online/social media and through relevant organizations) will be assessed by examining differences in caregiver participation, retention rates, and relative cost.

RESULTS

The study enrollment began in May 2022. As of December 2022, a total of 117 participants had enrolled.

CONCLUSIONS

The S@H study is the first randomized trial of a firearm safety decision aid for ADRD caregivers. The results from this study will inform how best to support caregivers in decision-making regarding firearm safety. Further, results may guide approaches for recruiting caregivers and for dissemination of resources.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05173922; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05173922

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/43702
Perceived Use Cases, Barriers, and Requirements for a Smart Health-Tracking Toilet Seat: Qualitative Focus Group Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hermsen Sander , Verbiest Vera , Buijs Marije , Wentink Eva
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Smart bathroom technology offers unrivaled opportunities for the automated measurement of a range of biomarkers and other data. Unfortunately, efforts in this area are mostly driven by a technology push rather than market pull approach, which decreases the chances of successful adoption. As yet, little is known about the use cases, barriers, and desires that potential users of smart bathrooms perceive.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate how participants from the general population experience using a smart sensor-equipped toilet seat installed in their home. The study contributes to answering the following questions: What use cases do citizens see for this innovation? and What are the limitations and barriers to its everyday use that they see, including concerns regarding privacy, the lack of fit with everyday practices, and unmet expectations for user experience?

METHODS

Overall, 31 participants from 30 households participated in a study consisting of 3 (partially overlapping) stages: sensitizing, in which participants filled out questionnaires to trigger their thoughts about smart bathroom use and personal health; provotyping, in which participants received a gentle provocation in the form of a smart toilet seat, which they used for 2 weeks; and discussion, in which participants took part in a web-based focus group session to discuss their experiences.

RESULTS

Participants mostly found the everyday use of the toilet, including installation and dismantling when necessary, to be relatively easy and free of complications. Where complications occurred, participants mentioned issues related to the design of the prototype, technology, or mismatches with normal practices in using toilets and hygiene. A broad range of use cases were mentioned, ranging from signaling potentially detrimental health conditions or exacerbations of existing conditions to documenting physical data to measuring biomarkers to inform a diagnosis and behavioral change. Participants differed greatly in whether they let others use, or even know about, the seat. Ownership and control over their own data were essential for most participants.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that participants felt that a smart toilet seat could be acceptable and effective, as long as it fits everyday practices concerning toilet use and hygiene. The range of potential uses for a smart toilet seat is broad, as long as privacy and control over disclosure and data are warranted.
A Guided Web-Based Intervention Targeting Procrastination in College Students: Protocol for an Open Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Ozmen Sevin , Amarnath Arpana , Struijs Sascha , de Wit Leonore , Cuijpers Pim
Published: December 2022

BACKGROUND

Academic procrastination is a widespread problem among college students. It is linked to poor academic performance and increased college dropout intentions, as well as several mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Guided web-based interventions can help reduce procrastination. However, guidance by professional clinicians draws upon valuable and limited societal resources, and a more efficient, scalable form of guidance is needed. Guidance by trained clinical psychology students has not yet been examined.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this open trial is to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a web-based procrastination intervention for college students under the guidance of student digital coaches (e-coaches).

METHODS

We developed a single-arm trial of a guided web-based intervention targeting procrastination for the Dutch student population. Guidance is delivered by trained clinical psychology students asynchronously in the form of textual feedback on intervention progress, with the aim of supporting and motivating the participant. Participants are recruited at 7 Dutch universities. Primary outcomes are intervention satisfaction, usability, and adherence, which are assessed by the Client Satisfaction Scale (CSQ-8), System Usability Scale (SUS-10), and number of completed modules, respectively. The primary outcomes will be examined by calculating descriptive statistics. Secondary outcomes are e-coach satisfaction and changes to procrastination, depression, stress, and quality of life from pre- to posttest and follow-up.

RESULTS

The project was funded in 2019, and recruitment began in January 2021. As of May 2023, a total of 985 participants were enrolled, of which 372 had completed the posttest and 192 had completed the follow-up. The expected date of analysis and publication of the results is 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

The results are expected to contribute to the body of literature regarding eHealth in 3 ways. First, we will examine whether students who procrastinate adhere to and are satisfied with an eHealth intervention targeting this problem. Second, we will explore whether an intervention targeting procrastination can also decrease depression and stress. Lastly, we will investigate whether trained psychology students can effectively guide their peers in web-based interventions. Given the shortage of licensed psychologists, exploring alternative sources of guidance is much needed in order to provide students with the mental health support they need.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/44907
Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of High Strength Banana Fibre Concrete (HSBFC) incorporating Fly ash and Silica fume
Authors: Pathan Tabassum A. , Jhumarwala Rashida A.
Published: December 2022

Abstract: Concrete is the most dynamic engineering material in construction industry because of its strength properties as well as its durability. The consumption of raw materials not only depleted natural resources but also increases the toxic material in the environment by the construction industries. Now a days the by using the banana fibre in concrete is an efficient sustainable method. The paper presents an Evaluation of Mechanical Properties of High Strength Banana Fibre Concrete (HSBFC) incorporating Fly ash and Silica fume in concrete. Banana fibers are widely available worldwide as agricultural waste from Banana cultivation. Banana fibers are environmentally friendly and present important attributes, such as low density, light weight, low cost, high tensile strength, as well as being water and fire resistant. Replacement of cement by Pozzolonic materials up to 40% in the proportion of 20%, 25% and 30% Fly Ash & 10% silica fume. Determination of strength parameters with different percentages of banana fibers at 0%, 1%, 1.5%, 2% by weight of cement. M70 grade concrete and ordinary Portland cement of grade 53 will be used. The banana fiber reinforced concrete will be tested for compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength and Durability tests at different ages of 7,14 and 28 days. Detailed laboratory studies will be carried out with different proportions of banana fiber to determine property of concrete such as compressive strength test, split tensile test, Flexural strength test. Durability test such as Water Absorption, Rapid Chloride ion Permeability Test (RCPT), Carbonation Resistance test, Sulphate Attack test, Hydrochloric acid attack, Freeze–Thaw Test also worked out. The Strength of the concrete in compression and flexure by adding 1.5% of banana fibre with Cement; partially replaced by 20% of Fly Ash and partially replaced by 10% of silica fume reveals better strength as compared to other combinations as proposed in this study.
Brain-Targeted Drug Delivery System: A Novel Approach
Authors: Chahar Rajeev Kumar , Tiwari Chanchal , Malik Princy , JAISWAL PANKAJ KUMAR
Published: December 2022

A targeted drug delivery system is based on a technique that continuously administers a predetermined dosage of a therapeutic agent to a sick location of the body. The targeted drug delivery goal is to raise the relative amount of the treatment in the target tissues while lowering it in the non-target tissues. This technique's intrinsic benefit has been reduced drug dose and adverse effects. Drug targeting in the brain is one of the most challenging issues in pharmaceutical research because the blood-brain barrier acts as an impermeable barrier for systemically delivered therapeutics and the brain extracellular matrix contributes to the poor distribution of locally delivered drugs. In the treatment of various Central nervous system (CNS) diseases, general approaches that can improve drug delivery to the brain are of great interest. Drugs are less harmful and more effective when they are administered close to where they would be most effective. Extreme research studies have recently concentrated on the development of fresh strategies for more successfully delivering medications to the brain in response to the shortcomings of the traditional delivery mechanism. This study thoroughly explains the obstacles involved in brain-targeted drug delivery, the process of drug transfer through Blood Brain Barrier, different techniques for brain-targeted drug delivery, and some recent breakthroughs in brain-targeted drug delivery.

Keywords: Blood-brain barrier, Brain-targeted, Cerebrospinal fluid, Nanoparticles, Liposomes, Convection-enhanced drug delivery.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B Core Antibody in Sudanese Random Blood Donors at Khartoum state, 2022
Authors: Ebar Mohamed Hassan Osman , Abdalla Hassan Abass Mohamed , Osman Malaz Almoiz Atiya , Ahmed Albara
Published: December 2022

Background: Hepatitis B virus is a DNA virus belonging to the Hepadnaviridae family attacking the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease.  The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B core antibody in Sudanese random blood donors.

Materials and methods: The study was descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at Ibn Sina Specialized Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan during the period from May 2022 to September 2022. Blood samples were collected from 100 random blood donors. A total of three ml of whole blood were collected from each participant in plain tube. Hepatitis B core antibody test was done by using biochemistry analyzer (Cobas 411).

Results: The results of this study revealed that all blood donors were negative for HBsAg but 51% of them were positive for HBcAb. The mean average of hepatitis B core antibody in blood donors was 0.984 ± 0.950, where the mean average of hepatitis B surface antigen was 0.685± 0.170. The educational background had a positive correlation with the prevalence of hepatitis B core antibody.

Conclusion: This study concluded that the prevalence of hepatitis B core antibody in blood donors was high.

Keywords: Hepatitis B virus infection, hepatitis B core antibody, enzyme linked immunosorbent assay, blood donation, blood transfusion, random blood donors
Blata, vides un varas mijiedarbības romānu sērijā Mēs. Latvija, XX gadsimts
Authors: Stāde Madara
Published: December 2022

Ievērojama ir blata ietekme uz romāna telpiskajiem aspektiem. Plašākā kontekstā tas norāda uz šī fenomena universālo, neizbēgamo klātbūtni padomju pilsoņu ikdienas gaitās
Understanding the Concept of Health Literacy in the Educational Environment: A Pilot Study
Authors:   University of Latvia, Kravale Dace , Helviga Anita , Laiveniece Diāna ,   Liepāja University,
Published: December 2022

Health literacy is a widely known and researched subject in health care system defined as the relationships between an individual’s level of education and his/her ability to maintain healthiness, improve health or participate in health treatment. However, there is a lack of information about the role of health literacy in school environment. This study reports on the topical status of understanding of health literacy concept among teachers and parents in the educational system of Latvia. Qualitative descriptive research was conducted in order to: a) analyse health literacy concept in theory and education documents; b) explore teachers’ and parents’ health literacy perception through focus groups interviews. A group of respondents included six adults representing teachers and parents from two schools. A thematic analysis method was applied to investigate participants’ perception of health literacy, representing four dimensions of the concept’s explanation: health and health education, Covid-19 pandemics, school/parent collaboration, and uncertain terminology aspects. The results showed various interpretations of health literacy terminology in educational documents, caused by insufficiently explained sub-terms – school, teacher and parent health literacy. This finding was confirmed by the results of the focus group interviews. That leads to a conclusion that the concept of health literacy requires a more efficient explanation by developing a comprehensible health literacy terminology in the educational setting.