bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Manajemen Waktu Ibu Bekerja Terhadap Kecerdasan Emosional Anak
Authors: Aisyah Siti Nur , Gede Putri Vera Utami , Mulyati Mulyati
Published: October 2017

Pada saat ini banyak wanita yang menjalankan dua peran di rumah sebagai ibu rumah tangga dan bekerja di luar rumah yang memiliki karir. Berdasarkan data Kementerian Tenaga Kerja dan Transmigrasi (2012), persentase wanita yang bekerja meningkat dari 38,2 persen pada tahun 2009 menjadi 38,6 persen pada tahun 2010. Penyebab terjadinya peningkatan jumlah pekerja perempuan adalah adanya faktor pendorong gerakan kesetaran gender, emansipasi wanita feminisme, dan meringankan beban ekonomi. Ibu yang bekerja memiliki keterbatasan waktu untuk menikmati perannya sebagai ibu rumah tangga yang mengurus suami dan  anak.   Pada saat anak memasuki usia remaja, anak masih membutuhkan bimbingan dan perhatian yang intens dari seorang ibu karena pada tahap ini anak berada dalam masa-masa labil dan bergejolak. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh  manajemen waktu ibu bekerja terhadap kecerdasan emosional anak. Tempat penelitian yang dipilih adalah tiga sekolah menengah swasta terbaik di wilayah Cibinong, Jawa Barat. Subjek penelitian ini adalah siswa-siswi kelas VII dan kelas VIII sekolah menengah pertama dan ibu dari siswa-siswi yang berperan ganda. Metode yang dilakukan adalah penelitian kuantitatif asosiatif. Dari hasil penelitian ini  dapat  disimpulkan  bahwa terdapat pengaruh yang positif antara manajemen waktu ibu bekerja terhadap kecerdasan emosional anak. Tingkat kekuatan pengaruh manajemen waktu ibu bekerja terhadap kecerdasan emosional anak adalah sedang. Hasil perhitungan uji analisis statistik menyatakan bahwa 44,0% kecerdasan emosional anak ditentukan oleh manajemen waktu ibu bekerja, sedangkan sisanya ditentukan oleh variabel lain yang tidak diteliti.
Perbandingan Sikap Agresivitas Remaja Pedesaan dan Perkotaan
Authors: Magdalena Kristina , Hasanah Uswatun , Rusilanti Rusilanti
Published: October 2017

Sikap agresivitas pada remaja dapat dilihat dari lingkungan, kepadatan dan kesesakan wilayah yang akan membawa akibat jangka panjang dan memunculkan tingkah laku menghindar atau perilaku agresif pada remaja seperti menyerang secara fisik dan kata-kata.Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui perbandingan sikap agresivitas remaja di pedesaan dan di perkotaan, dengan melihat dari segi tingkat agresivitas, kecenderungan sikap agresif yang dilakukan oleh remaja pedesaan dan perkotaan. Penelitian dilaksanakan di Pedesaan Pandeglang Banten dan di Perkotaan Jakarta Pusat. Penelitian ini menggunakan Metode Penelitian Kuantitatif Komparatif. Populasi penelitian ini adalah remaja berusia 12-20 tahun, Jumlah sample yang digunakan sebanyak 56 remaja.  Hasil penelitian menunjukkan adanya perbedaan sikap agresivitas remaja di pedesaan dan di perkotaan yang terbukti dari hasil uji T thitung < ttabel (0,0124<2,004) dengan menggunakan nilai rata rata yang berfungsi untuk mengetahui sikap agresivitas yang berarti signifikan.
PENGARUH MANAJEMEN STRES TERHADAP KETAHANAN KELUARGA
Authors: Ismiati Diah , Hasanah Uswatun , Prabawati Melly
Published: October 2017

Setiap keluarga pasti memiliki masalah yang harus dihadapi, namun masalah tersebut haruslah dapat diatasi atau dicari solusinya dengan cara sebaik-baiknya agar terciptanya ketahanan keluarga. Keluarga harus memiliki kekuatan untuk dapat merubah setiap tekanan- tekanan yang menyebabkan timbulnya stres negatif menjadi stres positif yaitu dengan cara manejemen stres. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis pengaruh manajemen stres terhadap ketahanan keluarga di Kelurahan Citayam Kecamatan Tajur Halang Kabupaten Bogor terhitung dari bulan Januari sampai bulan Juni 2016. Penelitian ini adalah penelitian kuantitatif dengan menggunakan metode survei dan pendekatan korelasi bivariat, yaitu penelitian yang dirancang untuk menentukan hubungan variabel-variabel yang berbeda dalam suatu populasi. Populasi penelitian ini adalah ibu rumah tangga yang berada di Kelurahan Citayam Kecamatan Tajur Halang Kabupaten Bogor dengan rentang usia 20-45 tahun. Sampel penelitian berjumlah 142 responden. Data pengujian hipotesis menggunakan analisis parametik yaitu uji Pearson Product Moment. Hasil perhitungan koefisien korelasi Pearson Product Moment menghasilkan rxy = 0,814 dan uji signifikan korelasi menghasilkan thitung = 16,619 â‰¥ ttabel = 1,977 (Î±=0,05; dk=140). Hal ini menjelaskan bahwa terdapat hubungan yang positif dan signifikan antara manajemen stres terhadap ketahanan keluarga. Hasil perhitungan uji koefisien determinasi menjabarkan bahwa manajemen stres berpengaruh sebesar 44%   terhadap ketahanan keluarga, dan sisanya 56% dipengaruhi oleh variabel lain yang tidak diteliti.
A tensor network study of the complete ground state phase diagram of the spin-1 bilinear-biquadratic Heisenberg model on the square lattice
Authors: Niesen Ido , Corboz Philippe
Published: October 2017

Using infinite projected entangled pair states, we study the ground
state phase diagram of the spin-1 bilinear-biquadratic Heisenberg model
on the square lattice directly in the thermodynamic limit. We find an
unexpected partially nematic partially magnetic phase in between the
antiferroquadrupolar and ferromagnetic regions. Furthermore, we describe
all observed phases and discuss the nature of the phase transitions
involved.
Tunable dispersion of the edge states in the integer quantum Hall effect
Authors: Malki Maik , Uhrig Götz
Published: October 2017

Topological aspects represent currently a boosting area in condensed
matter physics. Yet there are very few suggestions for technical
applications of topological phenomena. Still, the most important is the
calibration of resistance standards by means of the integer quantum Hall
effect. We propose modifications of samples displaying the integer
quantum Hall effect which render the tunability of the Fermi velocity
possible by external control parameters such as gate voltages. In this
way, so far unexplored possibilities arise to realize devices such as
tunable delay lines and interferometers.
Detection and Delineation of Water Bodies in Hilly Region using CartoDEM SRTM and ASTER GDEM Data
Authors: Aher Sainath , Kantamaneni Komali , Deshmukh Pragati
Published: October 2017

Detection and delineation of Water Body Area (WBA), particularly over inaccessible hilly region is not always possible in view of time, resources and cost issues. An automated procedure for detection and delineation of water bodies in the hilly region was performed using satellite-derived DEMs. CartoDEM, SRTM and ASTER GDEM data with 30, 90 and 30 m resolutions, respectively to generate the Elevation Points Features (EPF) in GIS platform. Total 7194906 EPFs were generated using these three DEMs. Contour and slope maps were also prepared to eliminate the outlier EPFs (non-water bodies) with flattered surface logic. Flattened area on DEMs, connected contour at edges of water bodies and 0° to 0.5° slopping area were considered as WBA in the region (2311 Km2) of Western Ghat (India). The nearest neighbor to cubic convolution conversion of DEMs was found useful for detection of boundary of water bodies more precisely. These results were validated from Landsat-8 satellite images and topographic maps (Survey of India). About 3.09% from CartoDEM, 2.22% area from ASTER GDEM and 4.38% from SRTM DEM were estimated as WBA. CartoDEM data can be suggested for precise detection of smaller water bodies in hilly region. Methodology formulated in this study could be used as a rapid assessment tool for detection of water bodies, especially in the inaccessible region for better water resources management.
A multi-resolution dynamics feature relying on operating deflection shapes for identifying interface debondings in steel-reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Liu J. Q. , Wang Y. F. , Xu W.
Published: October 2017

Interface debonding identification is critical for ensuring the safety of steel-reinforced concrete structures. Laer-measured operating deflection shapes (ODSs) can be utilized to precisely designate the presence and location of interface debondings. However, using such densely-sampled ODSs poses a challenge for overcoming intense noise interference. With this concern, this study proposes a noise-robust dynamics feature relying on ODSs, namely Teager-Kaiser energy of multi-resolution ODS, to identify interface debondings in steel-reinforced concrete structures. Owing to the multi-resolution analysis, this feature is capable of suppressing noise; and because of the damage sensitivity of the Teager-Kaiser energy, the feature can intensify damage signatures. The Teager-Kaiser energy of multi-resolution ODS is applied to identify surface debondings on a steel-reinforced concrete slab, whose ODSs are acquired using a scanning laser vibrometer. The experimental results show that the dynamics feature is of strong noise robustness and damage sensitivity, capable of designating the presence and location of the interface debondings under a noisy environment. Furthermore, damage identification using the proposed dynamics feature is a non-baseline method, requiring no structural baseline information such as temperature, materials, geometry, and boundary conditions.
Decrease of the water recharge and identification of water recharge zones in the Alto Atoyac sub-basin, Oaxaca, as a result of climate change
Authors: Ojeda Olivares Edwin Antonio , Belmonte Jimenez Salvador Isidro , Takaro Tim K. , Campos Enriquez Jose Oscar , Ladrón de Guevara Torres Maria
Published: October 2017

This study analyzes effects of climate change (CCh) and of the increase of impervious surfaces on the groundwater recharge in the Alto Atoyac sub-basin (Oaxaca, southern Mexico). Water recharge was modeled based on HELP 3.95D; temperature and precipitation were derived, for a near (2015–2039) and a far distant future scenario, from GFDL-CM3 global circulation model (GCM), which describes the climate of Mexico under the RCP8.5 scenario. Potential recharge loss zones for the period of 1979–2013 were estimated through a remote sensing analysis. The actual estimated mean annual recharge of 169 million cubic metres could be reduced by 17.97% and 65.09% according to the analyzed CCh scenarios, and the loss of 135 km2 of permeable soil would represent additionally 2.65 × 106 m3 of non-infiltrated water. This study indicates three sites, with high recharge potential, and it can be used to propose local adaptations to guarantee the availability of the water resource in the studied sub-basin.
Changes in climate zones across Turkey
Authors: Selek Bulent , Tuncok I. Kaan , Selek Zeliha
Published: October 2017

Turkey lies in a critical region that is projected to be one of the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change in the Mediterranean region. In this study, climatic zones of Turkey were classified with respect to their climatic and meteorological characteristics. The Thornthwaite precipitation efficiency index was used to identify aridity and humidity characteristics. The index values were mapped to determine climate zones and associated climate classes and to evaluate change in time and space. Two distinct periods (1950–1980 and 1981–2010) were used to assess climatic conditions and evaluate historical changes. The Thornthwaite index indicated significant spatial variations of climate parameters across Turkey with varying degrees of vulnerability. The results indicate that during the 60-year time frame, no arid zones had been experienced in Turkey. On the other hand, an increase of semi-dry and dry humid zones and a decrease of semi-dry–less humid, semi-humid and humid zones had been experienced. In this context, it is important to note that semi-arid zones have increased substantially (approximately 14%) between the two 30-year periods.
Towards development of a standard methodology for testing field performance of residential greywater reuse systems: case study of a greywater reuse system installed in 22 homes in Southern Ontario (Canada)
Authors: Craig Madeleine , Richman Russell
Published: October 2017

Using shower wastewater to flush toilets decreases the potable water demand of residential buildings, reducing pressure on existing water supplies. ‘Off- the-shelf’ greywater reuse systems intended for single-family residential dwellings have recently become commercially available, but have variable field performance. A standard field testing methodology was developed and applied to a greywater reuse system installed in 22 homes in Southern Ontario. Performance was quantified by measuring the water balance, water quality, energy consumption, durability, maintenance requirements, installation process, economics and user satisfaction with the system. The tested system was found to save, on average, 40.9 litres per household per day, occasionally meet water quality guidelines and generally have less maintenance and durability issues than previous generations, resulting in satisfied users. However, due to low water rates and high capital costs, there is a need for government subsidization of these systems which will ultimately reduce pressure placed on centralized water infrastructure.
Modeling adsorption kinetic of crystal violet removal by electrocoagulation technique using bipolar iron electrodes
Authors: Moneer Abeer A. , El-Sadaawy Manal M. , El-Said Ghada F. , Morsy Fadia A. M.
Published: October 2017

This paper studies the removal of crystal violet (CV) dye by electrocoagulation (EC) process using bipolar iron electrodes. Numerous operating parameters such as initial CV solution concentration, speed of agitation, number of electrodes, type and quantity of supporting electrolyte, temperature- and initial pH were investigated. A complete removal of 10 mg/L CV was achieved within 10 min at pH 7, 0.5 g NaCl, 1 LCV, 750 rpm, 9 sheets, 17.36 mAcm2, and 25 °C. The performed energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses confirmed the adsorption of CV onto the insoluble iron hydroxide flocs. Amongst the studied adsorption isotherms models, Langmuir and Dubinin–Radushkevich were the most applicable. The kinetic of adsorption of CV onto flocs during the EC operation was studied using the pseudo-first-order, pseudo-second-order, and intraparticulate diffusion models, with results affirming that the adsorption process proceeded according to the pseudo-second-order model. The study of thermodynamic parameters (ΔG0, ΔH0, and ΔS0,) of the CV removal at different temperatures reflected the feasibility of the spontaneous randomness of endothermic adsorption, especially at lower temperatures. The multiple regression equation of the removal of CV by EC technique under the different studied conditions was predicted.
Synergy Effects of Hydrodynamic Conditions and Surfactant on Sorption Behavior of Bisphenol A
Authors: Wang Peng , Wang Yidan , Hua Zulin , Li Chen , Shen Xia , Liu Xiaodong , Bai Xue
Published: October 2017

The synergy effects of hydrodynamic conditions and cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) on the distribution behavior of bisphenol A (BPA) in sediment have been investigated using particle entrainment simulator (PES) and water bath shaker. The results showed that when the concentration of CTAB is below its critical micelle concentration (CMC), the shear stress has almost no effect on the equilibrium sorption amount of BPA on sediment, which is mainly related to the surfactant concentration. The sorption rates in the rapid sorption phase increased with increasing CTAB content and shear stress. When the concentration of CTAB exceeded CMC, equilibrium sorption amount and corresponding time of BPA on sediment both decreased with increasing shear stress, mainly because the hydrodynamic conditions enhanced the solubilization ability of the surfactant on BPA. It was also found that the sorption rate constant showed a linear increase trend with increasing shear stress.
Mechanistic Study on Size Exclusion of NOM onto Porous TiO2 for Target Contaminants Decomposition
Authors: Zakersalehi Abolfazl , Zamankhan Hesam , Nadagouda Mallikarjuna , Choi Hyeok
Published: October 2017

Nonselective oxidation of organic chemicals during TiO2 photocatalytic water treatment significantly prohibits decomposition of toxic target contaminants, particularly in the presence of naturally abundant less toxic natural organic matter (NOM). To minimize the adverse effect of NOM, the authors have investigated physical size exclusion of large NOM onto mesoporous TiO2 photocatalysts, which allows small target contaminants to selectively access the porous structure for subsequent chemical reaction. Various treatment scenarios tested with different targets (ibuprofen, microcystin‐LR) and competitors (humic acid, polyethylene glycol), and a series of mesoporous TiO2 materials proved the size exclusion mechanism. Discussion was made on the impact of the porous structure of TiO2 on selectivity and reactivity, considering size difference among targets < TiO2 pores < competitors as well as mass transfer limitation of even a target to small pores. This simple approach would greatly improve the photocatalytic treatment of toxic chemicals in water containing NOM.
Landfill Leachate Treatment by Electrocoagulation and Fiber Filtration
Authors: Li Runwei , Wang Boya , Owete Owete , Dertien Joe , Lin Chen , Ahmad Hafiz , Chen Gang
Published: October 2017

Landfilling is widely adopted as one of the most economical processes for solid waste disposal. At the same time, landfill leachate is also a great environmental concern owing to its complex composition and high concentrations of contaminants. This research investigated electrocoagulation and fiber filtration for the treatment of landfill leachate. Besides electrical current (i.e., current density) and reaction time, pH played a very important role in arsenic and phosphorus removal by electrocoagulation. The combination of electrocoagulation with fiber filtration achieved a 94% chemical oxygen demand (COD), 87% arsenic, 96% iron, and 86% phosphorus removal. During electrocoagulation, the micro‐particles that could not be settled by gravity were removed by the first stage of fiber filtration. Organic contaminants in the leachate were further removed by biodegradation in the second stage of fiber biofiltration.
Advanced Control Synthesis for Reverse Osmosis Water Desalination Processes
Authors: Phuc Bui Duc Hong , You Sam‐Sang , Choi Hyeung‐Six , Jeong Seok‐Kwon
Published: October 2017

In this study, robust control synthesis has been applied to a reverse osmosis desalination plant whose product water flow and salinity are chosen as two controlled variables. The reverse osmosis process has been selected to study since it typically uses less energy than thermal distillation. The aim of the robust design is to overcome the limitation of classical controllers in dealing with large parametric uncertainties, external disturbances, sensor noises, and unmodeled process dynamics. The analyzed desalination process is modeled as a multi‐input multi‐output (MIMO) system with varying parameters. The control system is decoupled using a feed forward decoupling method to reduce the interactions between control channels. Both nominal and perturbed reverse osmosis systems have been analyzed using structured singular values for their stabilities and performances. Simulation results show that the system responses meet all the control requirements against various uncertainties. Finally the reduced order controller provides excellent robust performance, with achieving decoupling, disturbance attenuation, and noise rejection. It can help to reduce the membrane cleanings, increase the robustness against uncertainties, and lower the energy consumption for process monitoring.
Removal Efficiency of Different Gemini Surfactants and Related Modified Clay to Chattonella marina
Authors: Wang Wen‐Wen , Yan Xin‐Ya , Li Yun‐Hui , Yu De‐Ren , Li Hong‐Ye , Yang Wei‐Dong , Liu Jie‐Sheng
Published: October 2017

To obtain new modified clays with excellent algae removal efficiency, three gemini surfactants including ethylene bis (dodecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride), ethylene bis (octadecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride) and ethylene bis (dodecyl dimethyl ammonium bromide) (EDAB), and a poly quaternary ammonium salt, poly dimethyl diallyl ammonium chloride, were screened with Chattonella marina. The four chemicals all exhibited high removal efficiencies against C. marina, with EDAB achieving the highest. A series of organ‐clays with different ratios of EDAB were prepared, and the associated removal efficiencies were evaluated. The removal efficiencies of the organ‐clays were improved by the EDAB intercalation and the organ‐clay with 15% EDAB had the highest removal efficiency. The LC50 of EDAB intercalated clay for zebrafish and shrimp was much higher than the values of intercalated clay required to obtain a desirable removal efficiency of algae. Taken together, EDAB intercalated clay might be a potential alternative to control harmful algal blooms (HABs).
Effect of School Clustering Policy on Travel Distance of Urban School Children
Authors: Maryati Sri , Martha Erli H. Ketut Dewi , Ilyani Mariana
Published: October 2017

Normatively travel distance to elementary school should be within walking distance. However, the facts in several major cities in Indonesia showed that many school children travel beyond walking distance to reach their schools. 7he purpose of this study was to identify the influence of school clustering policy on travel distance of urban school children. The study is conducted by using respondents of elementary school children in Bandung. The results of this study indicated that if school clustering policy is applied, the total travel distance could be reduced as many as 6,285 meters per student in average.
Environmental Ethical Commitment (EEC): Factors that affect Malaysian business corporations
Authors: Kamarul Zaman Maliza Delima
Published: October 2017

This study is about environmental ethical commitment (EEC) factors that affect Malaysian manufacturing companies. The independent variables were the ecological concern, the regulations, perceived behavioural control which consists of self-eficacy, ethical climate, financial aspect, stakeholder pressure and stakeholder information and also the personal moral obligations. From regression analysis, only three factors namely the regulation, financial aspect and stakeholder information were able to explain the EEC in Malaysia. Finally, environmental ethical consideration would be beneficial to companies as it offers advantages and having claimed to save the industry as well as the world.
Effects of Deep Versus Moderate Neuromuscular Blockade in Laparoscopic Gynecologic Surgery on Postoperative Pain and Surgical Conditions: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: De Robertis Edoardo , Caprino Miceli Anna , Colombo Giorgio L. , Corcione Antonio , Leykin Yigal , Scudeller Luigia , Vizza Enrico , Scollo Paolo ,   SIGO (Società Italiana Ginecologia E Ostetricia),   SIAARTI (Società Italiana Di Anestesia Analgesia Rianimazione E Terapia Intensiva)
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Postoperative pain, especially shoulder pain, is commonly reported after laparoscopic gynecologic procedures. Some studies suggest that a lower insufflation pressure may reduce the risk of postoperative pain; however, there is no agreement on the optimal pneumoperitoneum pressure during gynecologic laparoscopic surgery or whether lower pressure would lead to clinically significant improvements without increasing operative complications. Questions remain regarding the clinical significance of improvements, safety, and cost-effectiveness of deep neuromuscular blockade with low-pressure pneumoperitoneum.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this study was to assess the superiority of anesthesia with deep neuromuscular blockade with pneumoperitoneum 8 mm Hg over moderate blockade with pneumoperitoneum 12 mm Hg in terms of overall pain 24 hours after surgery in adult women undergoing pelvic surgery for hysterectomy or benign adnexal diseases. Effects on the intensity and timing of postoperative pain in specific locations, surgeon satisfaction, respiratory and hemodynamic stability, operating times, and direct and indirect costs will be assessed.

METHODS

In this multicenter, randomized controlled trial with a superiority design, 300 patients will be randomly allocated in the ratio 1:1 to moderate neuromuscular blockade with a target insufflation pressure of 12 mm Hg or deep neuromuscular blockade with a target insufflation pressure of 8 mm Hg, with stratification by type of surgery and clinical center. The patient, the statistician, and the nurse who will assess the primary endpoint will be blinded to the allocation.

RESULTS

Recruitment to this trial is expected to open in June 2018 and is expected to close in June 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is designed to confirm the reported benefits of postoperative pain and provide additional data needed to address questions regarding the effects of this intervention on operating theater management and direct and indirect costs. Strengths of this protocol include the large sample size distributed among diverse institutions across the Italian territory and the collection and analysis of data on numerous secondary objectives. Limitations include the possible introduction of bias because the surgeon and anesthesiologist are not blinded to the intervention.

REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER

RR1-10.2196/9277
Augmenting Outpatient Alcohol Treatment as Usual With Online Alcohol Avoidance Training: Protocol for a Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Bratti-van der Werf Marleen KJ , Laurens Melissa C , Postel Marloes G , Pieterse Marcel E , Ben Allouch Somaya , Wiers Reinout W , Bohlmeijer Ernst T , Salemink Elske
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Recent theoretical models emphasize the role of impulsive processes in alcohol addiction, which can be retrained with computerized Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM) training. In this study, the focus is on action tendencies that are activated relatively automatically.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to examine the effectiveness of online CBM Alcohol Avoidance Training using an adapted Approach-Avoidance Task as a supplement to treatment as usual (TAU) in an outpatient treatment setting.

METHODS

The effectiveness of 8 online sessions of CBM Alcohol Avoidance Training added to TAU is tested in a double-blind, randomized controlled trial with pre- and postassessments, plus follow-up assessments after 3 and 6 months. Participants are adult patients (age 18 years or over) currently following Web-based or face-to-face TAU to reduce or stop drinking. These patients are randomly assigned to a CBM Alcohol Avoidance or a placebo training. The primary outcome measure is a reduction in alcohol consumption. We hypothesize that TAU + CBM will result in up to a 13-percentage point incremental effect in the number of patients reaching the safe drinking guidelines compared to TAU + placebo CBM. Secondary outcome measures include an improvement in health status and a decrease in depression, anxiety, stress, and possible mediation by the change in approach bias. Finally, patients’ adherence, acceptability, and credibility will be examined.

RESULTS

The trial was funded in 2014 and is currently in the active participant recruitment phase (since May 2015). Enrolment will be completed in 2019. First results are expected to be submitted for publication in 2020.

CONCLUSIONS

The main purpose of this study is to increase our knowledge about the added value of online Alcohol Avoidance Training as a supplement to TAU in an outpatient treatment setting. If the added effectiveness of the training is proven, the next step could be to incorporate the intervention into current treatment.

CLINICALTRIAL

Netherlands Trial Register NTR5087; http://www.trialregister.nl/trialreg/admin/rctview.asp?TC=5087 (Archived at WebCite http://www.webcitation.org/6wuS4i1tH)
Serious Games for Improving Genetic Literacy and Genetic Risk Awareness in the General Public: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Oliveri Serena , Mainetti Renato , Gorini Alessandra , Cutica Ilaria , Candiani Giulia , Borghese Nunzio Alberto , Pravettoni Gabriella
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Genetic testing and genetic risk information are gaining importance in personalized medicine and disease prevention. However, progress in these fields does not reflect increased knowledge and awareness of genetic risk in the general public.

OBJECTIVE

Our aim is to develop and test the efficacy of a suite of serious games, developed for mobile and Web platforms, in order to increase knowledge of basic genetic concepts and promote awareness of genetic risk management among lay people.

METHODS

We developed a new ad-hoc game and modified an arcade game using mechanics suitable to explain genetic concepts. In addition, we developed an adventure game where players are immersed in virtual scenarios and manage genetic risk information to make health-related and interpersonal decisions and modulate their lifestyle. The pilot usability testing will be conducted with a convenience sample of 30 adults who will be categorized into 3 groups and assigned to one game each. Participants will be asked to report any positive or negative issues arising during the game. Subsequently, they will be asked to complete the Game Experience Questionnaire. Finally, a total of 60 teenagers and adults will be enrolled to assess knowledge transfer. Thirty participants will be assigned to the experimental group and asked to play the serious games, and 30 participants will be assigned to the control group and asked to read leaflets on the genetic concepts conveyed by the games. Participants of both groups will fill out a questionnaire before and after the intervention to assess their topic-specific knowledge of genetics. Furthermore, both groups will complete the self-efficacy questionnaire, which assesses the level of confidence in using genetic information.

RESULTS

We obtained evidence of game usability in 2017. The data will be submitted to a peer-reviewed journal and used to improve the game design. Knowledge-transfer testing will begin in 2018, and we expect to collect preliminary data on the learning outcomes of serious games by December 2018.

CONCLUSIONS

It is important to educate the general public about the impact of genetics and genetic testing on disease prevention and the consequent decision-making implications. Without such knowledge, individuals are more likely to make uninformed decisions or handover all decisions regarding genetic testing to their doctors. Technological innovations such as serious games might become a valid instrument to support public education and empowerment.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPOR

DERR1-10.2196/9288
Information Technology–Assisted Treatment Planning and Performance Assessment for Severe Thalassemia Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Agarwal Rajat Kumar , Sedai Amit , Ankita Kumari , Parmar Lalith , Dhanya Rakesh , Dhimal Sunil , Sriniwas Reshma , Gowda Ashwini , Gujjal Pooja , H Pushpa , Jain Suman , Ramaiah J Dasaratha , Jali Sujata , Tallur Neelavva Rayappa , Ramprakash Stalin , Faulkner Lawrence
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Successful models of information and communication technology (ICT) applied to cost-effective delivery of quality care in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) are an increasing necessity. Severe thalassemia is one of the most common life-threatening noncommunicable diseases of children globally.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to study the impact of ICT on quality of care for severe thalassemia patients in LMIC.

METHODS

A total of 1110 patients with severe thalassemia from five centers in India were followed over a 1-year period. The impact of consistent use of a Web-based platform designed to assist comprehensive management of severe thalassemia (ThalCare) on key indicators of quality of care such as minimum (pretransfusion) hemoglobin, serum ferritin, liver size, and spleen size were assessed.

RESULTS

Overall improvements in initial hemoglobin, ferritin, and liver and spleen size were significant (P<.001 for each). For four centers, the improvement in mean pretransfusion hemoglobin level was statistically significant (P<.001). Four of five centers achieved reduction in mean ferritin levels, with two displaying a significant drop in ferritin (P=.004 and P<.001). One of the five centers did not record liver and spleen size on palpation, but of the remaining four centers, two witnessed a large drop in liver and spleen size (P<.01), one witnessed moderate drop (P=.05 for liver; P=.03 for spleen size), while the fourth witnessed a moderate increase in liver size (P=.08) and insignificant change in spleen size (P=.12).

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of computer-assisted treatment planning and performance assessment consistently and positively impacted indexes reflecting effective delivery of care to patients suffering from severe thalassemia in LMIC.
mActive-Smoke: A Prospective Observational Study Using Mobile Health Tools to Assess the Association of Physical Activity With Smoking Urges (Preprint)
Authors: Silverman-Lloyd Luke G , Kianoush Sina , Blaha Michael J , Sabina Alyse B , Graham Garth N , Martin Seth S
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Evidence that physical activity can curb smoking urges is limited in scope to acute effects and largely reliant on retrospective self-reported measures. Mobile health technologies offer novel mechanisms for capturing real-time data of behaviors in the natural environment.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore this in a real-world longitudinal setting by leveraging mobile health tools to assess the association between objectively measured physical activity and concurrent smoking urges in a 12-week prospective observational study.

METHODS

We enrolled 60 active smokers (≥3 cigarettes per day) and recorded baseline demographics, physical activity, and smoking behaviors using a Web-based questionnaire. Step counts were measured continuously using the Fitbit Charge HR. Participants reported instantaneous smoking urges via text message using a Likert scale ranging from 1 to 9. On study completion, participants reported follow-up smoking behaviors in an online exit survey.

RESULTS

A total of 53 participants (aged 40 [SD 12] years, 57% [30/53] women, 49% [26/53] nonwhite) recorded at least 6 weeks of data and were thus included in the analysis. We recorded 15,365 urge messages throughout the study, with a mean of 290 (SD 62) messages per participant. Mean urge over the course of the study was positively associated with daily cigarette consumption at follow-up (Pearson r=.33; P=.02). No association existed between daily steps and mean daily urge (beta=−6.95×10−3 per 1000 steps; P=.30). Regression models of acute effects, however, did reveal modest inverse associations between steps within 30-, 60-, and 120-min time windows of a reported urge (beta=−.0191 per 100 steps, P<.001). Moreover, 6 individuals (approximately 10% of the study population) exhibited a stronger and consistent inverse association between steps and urge at both the day level (mean individualized beta=−.153 per 1000 steps) and 30-min level (mean individualized beta=−1.66 per 1000 steps).

CONCLUSIONS

Although there was no association between objectively measured daily physical activity and concurrently self-reported smoking urges, there was a modest inverse relationship between recent step counts (30-120 min) and urge. Approximately 10% of the individuals appeared to have a stronger and consistent inverse association between physical activity and urge, a provocative finding warranting further study.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Text Messaging and Phone Call Reminders to Minimize No Show at Pediatric Outpatient Clinics in Pakistan: Protocol for a Mixed-Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Saeed Sana , Somani Noureen , Sharif Fatima , Kazi Abdul Momin
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Missing health care appointments without canceling in advance results in a no show, a vacant appointment slot that cannot be offered to others. No show can be reduced by reminding patients about their appointment in advance. In this regard, mobile health (mHealth) strategy is to use text messaging (short message service, SMS), which is available on all cellular phones, including cheap low-end handsets. Nonattendance for appointments in health care results in wasted resources and disturbs the planned work schedules.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of the current text messaging (SMS) and call-based reminder system and further explore how to improve the attendance at the pediatric outpatient clinics. The primary objectives are to (1) determine the efficacy of the current clinic appointment reminder service at pediatric outpatient clinics at Aga Khan University Hospital, (2) assess the mobile phone access and usage among caregivers visiting pediatrics consultant clinics, and (3) explore the perception and barriers of parents regarding the current clinic appointment reminder service at the pediatric outpatient clinics at Aga Khan University Hospital.

METHODS

The study uses a mixed-method design that consists of 3 components: (1) retrospective study (component A) which aims to determine the efficacy of text messaging (SMS) and phone call–based reminder service on patient’s clinic attendance during January to June 2017 (N=58,517); (2) quantitative (component B) in which a baseline survey will be conducted to assess the mobile phone access and usage among parents/caregivers of children visiting pediatrics consultant clinics (n=300); and (3) qualitative (component C) includes in-depth interviews and focus group discussion with parents/caregivers of children visiting the pediatric consultancy clinic and with health care providers and administrative staff. Main constructs will be to explore perceptions and barriers related to existing clinic appointment reminder service. Ethics approval has been obtained from the Ethical Review Committee, Aga Khan University, Pakistan (4770-Ped-ERC-17).

RESULTS

Results will be disseminated to pediatric quality public health and mHealth communities through scientific meetings and through publications, nationally and internationally.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will provide insight regarding efficacy of using mHealth-based reminder services for patient’s appointments in low- and middle-income countries setup. The finding of this study will be used to recommend further enhanced mHealth-based solutions to improve patient appointments and decrease no show.
Online Self-Administered Cognitive Testing Using the Amsterdam Cognition Scan: Establishing Psychometric Properties and Normative Data (Preprint)
Authors: Feenstra Heleen EM , Vermeulen Ivar E , Murre Jaap MJ , Schagen Sanne B
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND

Online tests enable efficient self-administered assessments and consequently facilitate large-scale data collection for many fields of research. The Amsterdam Cognition Scan is a new online neuropsychological test battery that measures a broad variety of cognitive functions.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Amsterdam Cognition Scan and to establish regression-based normative data.

METHODS

The Amsterdam Cognition Scan was self-administrated twice from home—with an interval of 6 weeks—by 248 healthy Dutch-speaking adults aged 18 to 81 years.

RESULTS

Test-retest reliability was moderate to high and comparable with that of equivalent traditional tests (intraclass correlation coefficients: .45 to .80; .83 for the Amsterdam Cognition Scan total score). Multiple regression analyses indicated that (1) participants’ age negatively influenced all (12) cognitive measures, (2) gender was associated with performance on six measures, and (3) education level was positively associated with performance on four measures. In addition, we observed influences of tested computer skills and of self-reported amount of computer use on cognitive performance. Demographic characteristics that proved to influence Amsterdam Cognition Scan test performance were included in regression-based predictive formulas to establish demographically adjusted normative data.

CONCLUSIONS

Initial results from a healthy adult sample indicate that the Amsterdam Cognition Scan has high usability and can give reliable measures of various generic cognitive ability areas. For future use, the influence of computer skills and experience should be further studied, and for repeated measurements, computer configuration should be consistent. The reported normative data allow for initial interpretation of Amsterdam Cognition Scan performances.
Metallothionein Preserves Akt2 Activity and Cardiac Function via Inhibiting TRB3 in Diabetic Hearts
Authors: Gu Junlian , Yan Xiaoqing , Dai Xiaozhen , Wang Yuehui , Lin Qian , Xiao Jian , Zhou Shanshan , Zhang Jian , Wang Kai , Zeng Jun , Xin Ying , Barati Michelle T. , Zhang Chi , Bai Yang , Li Yan , Epstein Paul N. , Wintergerst Kupper A. , Li Xiaokun , Tan Yi , Cai Lu
Published: October 2017

Cardiac insulin resistance is a key pathogenic factor for diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM), but the mechanism remains largely unclear. We found that diabetic hearts exhibited decreased phosphorylation of total Akt and isoform Akt2 but not Akt1 in wild-type (WT) male FVB mice, which was accompanied by attenuation of Akt downstream glucose metabolic signal. All of these signal changes were not observed in metallothionein cardiac-specific transgenic (MT-TG) hearts. Furthermore, insulin-induced glucose metabolic signals were attenuated only in WT diabetic hearts. In addition, diabetic hearts exhibited increased Akt-negative regulator tribbles pseudokinase 3 (TRB3) expression only in WT mice, suggesting that MT may preserve Akt2 function via inhibiting TRB3. Moreover, MT prevented tert-butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP)–reduced insulin-stimulated Akt2 phosphorylation in MT-TG cardiomyocytes, which was abolished by specific silencing of Akt2. Specific silencing of TRB3 blocked tBHP inhibition of insulin-stimulated Akt2 phosphorylation in WT cardiomyocytes, whereas overexpression of TRB3 in MT-TG cardiomyocytes and hearts abolished MT preservation of insulin-stimulated Akt2 signals and MT prevention of DCM. Most importantly, supplementation of Zn to induce MT preserved cardiac Akt2 signals and prevented DCM. These results suggest that diabetes-inhibited cardiac Akt2 function via TRB3 upregulation leads to aberrant cardiac glucose metabolism. MT preservation of cardiac Akt2 function by inhibition of TRB3 prevents DCM.
Thioredoxin-1 Overexpression in the Ventromedial Nucleus of the Hypothalamus Preserves the Counterregulatory Response to Hypoglycemia During Type 1 Diabetes in Male Rats
Authors: Zhou Chunxue , Routh Vanessa H.
Published: October 2017

We previously showed that the glutathione precursor, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), prevented hypoglycemia-associated autonomic failure (HAAF) and impaired activation of ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) glucose-inhibited (GI) neurons by low glucose after recurrent hypoglycemia (RH) in nondiabetic rats. However, NAC does not normalize glucose sensing by VMH GI neurons when RH occurs during diabetes. We hypothesized that recruiting the thioredoxin (Trx) antioxidant defense system would prevent HAAF and normalize glucose sensing after RH in diabetes. To test this hypothesis, we overexpressed Trx-1 (cytosolic form of Trx) in the VMH of rats with streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 1 diabetes. The counterregulatory response (CRR) to hypoglycemia in vivo and the activation of VMH GI neurons in low glucose using membrane potential sensitive dye in vitro was measured before and after RH. VMH Trx-1 overexpression normalized both the CRR and glucose sensing by VMH GI neurons in STZ rats. VMH Trx-1 overexpression also lowered the insulin requirement to prevent severe hyperglycemia in STZ rats. However, like NAC, VMH Trx-1 overexpression did not prevent HAAF or normalize activation of VMH GI neurons by low glucose in STZ rats after RH. We conclude that preventing HAAF in type 1 diabetes may require the recruitment of both antioxidant systems.
Economic dimension of Polish energy security
Authors: Czech Anna
Published: October 2017

Research background: Stable and reliable access to a variety of energy carriers is undoubtedly a basis for the development of any economy. Therefore, the primary condition for the security of the state and its citizens is to ensure the essential minimum of energy on its territory. We can observe, however, an increasing dependence of the Polish energy sector on external sources.

Purpose of the article: The aim of this paper is to examine and evaluate the economic aspects of the Polish energy security considering the fact of growing de-pendency on foreign supplies of energy carriers.

Methods: In this paper we analyze the Polish energy security using several indicators: fuel/price efficiency ratio, energy intensity of the economy and Herfindahl-Hirschman rate of market concentration. For calculations we use statistical data provided by Energy Market Agency publications, including ?Energy Situation in Poland? covering the years of 2000? 2015.

Findings & value added: On the one hand, the Polish energy security depends on its internal conditions and resources - in this context, the available resources of coal and lignite play an extremely positive role because they provide access to a reliable source of energy. On the other hand, Poland is becoming dependent on external commitments that restrict the free use of domestic resources, thus lowering the energy security of the country, speaking in particular of oil and natural gas resources. The analysis carried out in this paper will allow to evaluate the effectiveness of using various energy carriers with respect to their price, market structure and geopolitical conditions.
Green farming development opportunities: the case of Lithuania
Authors: Remeikiene Rita , Gaspareniene Ligita
Published: October 2017

Research background: The increase in the demand for organic products prompts the establishment of green farms. In spite of the large global interest in green farming, scientific literature is not rich in the studies that cover the issues of green farming development. Although previous studies examine different aspects of green business, the factors that facilitate or impede the development of green farming, especially at the national level, are hardly considered. In order to fill this gap in the scientific literature, we formulate the following problem of the research: what opportunities of green farming development can be envisaged in Lithuania?

Purpose of the article: To explore the opportunities of green farming development in Lithuania on the basis of the general features of green business development.

Methods: Comparative and systematic analysis of the scientific literature, graphic and comparative data analyses, and expert evaluation. The results of the survey conducted among experts were processed with application of the following statistical methods: Kendall?s coefficient of concordance and Cronbach alpha coefficient.

Findings & value added: The research has enabled to identify the factors that facilitate and impede green farming development in Lithuania. On the basis of the results of the expert evaluation, the recommendations for green farming development in Lithuania were provided. It was found that the main barriers that disturb smooth development of green farming in Lithuania mainly include economic and social obstacles. Frequently changing regulations on organic farming, complicated procedures of green farming certification, and lack of information about the sup-port and subsidies call for the development of a consistent green farming monitoring system and conduct of the efficient green market research. Extensive networking systems would provide the opportunities for green farmers to share their experience and observe all the economic changes: new market niches, demand-supply indicators, new channels of product delivery, etc. Non-financial green farming support measures (e.g. consultations, training, provision of information, etc.) could substantially contribute to the development of green farming in Lithuania.