bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Aspartate Aminotransferase to Alanine Aminotransferase Ratio on Admission as Risk Factor for Poor Prognosis in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Qin Cheng , Wei Yingxin , Lyu Xiaoyu , Zhao Bangbo , Feng Yunlu , Li Tianhao , Cao Hongtao , Yang Xiaoying , Zhou Xingtong , Wang Weibin , You Lei , Wang Yujun
Published: June 2020

This study aimed to analyze aspartate aminotransferase (AST) to alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ratio in COVID-19 patients. After exclusion, 567 inpatients were included in this study and separated into two groups according to their AST/ALT ratio on admission. Poor prognosis included death and transfer to other hospitals due to deterioration. Of 567 patients, 56 (9.9%) had AST/ALT ≥ 2. Of the 56 patients, older age (median age 65.5 years), fatigue (29 [51.8%] cases), comorbidities (33 [58.9%] cases) and outcomes were significantly different from patients with AST/ALT < 2. They also had worse chest computed tomography (CT) findings, laboratory results and severity scores. Levels of platelet count (OR = 0.989, 95% CI [0.983-0.996]) were independently associated with AST/ALT ≥ 2 on admission. Furthermore, a high AST/ALT ratio on admission was an independent risk factor for poor prognosis (OR = 22.02, 95% CI [1.84-263.2]), especially in patients with AST levels > 40 U/L. In subsequent monitoring, the AST/ALT ratio was decreased in both patients with AST/ALT < 2 or ≥ 2 on admission. COVID-19 patients who are older, or have fatigue, comorbidities are more likely to have AST/ALT ≥ 2 on admission, which might be the indication of worse status and outcomes.
Size distribution of virus laden droplets from expiratory ejecta of infected subjects
Authors: Anand S , Mayya Y S
Published: June 2020

For rebooting business and academic activities in the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic scenario, it is important to pay detailed attention to all forms of infection transfer mechanisms during interaction of people in enclosed environments. In this context, a matter of specific concern will be the possibility of aerosol mediated infection transfer in indoor spaces, which will be largely governed by the size distributions of virus laden droplets, termed as virusols in this work, ejected from humans. We expand on the well-known theory of Poisson fluctuations which acts as statistical barrier against formation of virusols. Analysis suggests that for viral loads of less than 2x105 RNA copies/mL, often corresponding to mild-to-moderate cases of COVID-19, droplets of diameter <20 micron are unlikely to be of consequence in carrying infections. Cut-off diameters below which droplets will be practically free of contamination, are presented as a function of viral loading. The median diameters of virus laden droplet distributions will be 1.5 to 20 times higher depending upon the Geometric Standard Deviation of the droplet size distributions. The studies have implications to residence time estimates of airborne infections in indoor air and for performance evaluation of sanitation and control technologies to mitigate infection risks in workplaces.
Screening and Analysis of COVID-19 cases in non-epidemic areas: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Zhu Yan , Guo Yan , Ma Juan , Li Mao-shi , Chen Jia-fei , Liu Ming , Yan Ze-hui , Deng Guo-hong , Mao Qing , Liu Hui-min
Published: June 2020

Objective: To compare the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of confirmed and suspected corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases via the process of “triage-screening-isolation-transfer” in the hospitals of non-epidemic areas.Methods: The general data, epidemiological history, clinical symptoms, laboratory examination, and chest computed tomography (CT) imaging characteristics of 38 patients with suspected COVID-19, admitted between January 21 and March 5, 2020, were analyzed.Results: According to the results of the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) ribonucleic acid (RNA) testing, the patients were divided into study group (RNA positive) and control group (RNA negative). Ultimately, 8 cases were RNA-positive and diagnosed as CDVID-19, and 30 cases were negative. Approximately half of the patients in the study group returned to Chongqing from Wuhan; this number was significantly larger than that of the control group (P<0.05). The number of subjects in close contact with the confirmed cases with SARS-CoV-2 RNA-positive and the incidence of aggregation was significantly larger in the study group than in the control group (both P<0.05). The clinical symptom of the study group was mainly low fever (with or without cough). The patients with decreased white blood cells (WBC) in the study group were significantly more than those in the control group (P<0.05). Both group had reduced lymphocytes (Lym) but the number of patients with increased C-reactive protein (CRP) in the study group was significantly more than that in the control group (P<0.05). There were different degrees of chest CT abnormalities in both study and control group (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The epidemiological investigations in screening for infectious diseases is crucial. The risk of infection was high from the primary epidemic area and/or in close contact with the confirmed case. The most common form of clustering occurrence was family aggregation. CDVID-19 was mainly characterized by fever and respiratory symptoms, although asymptomatic infection may also occur. Decreased WBC, decreased Lym, and increased CRP are common characteristics but can also be combined with other respiratory tract virus infections. COVID 19 screening by chest CT alone had certain limitations in non- epidemic areas.
Radiologic evaluation of discharge quality in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Li Jingwen , Long Xi , Fang Fang , Lv Xuefei , Zhang Dandan , Sun Yu , Li Na , Zhang Qing , Fang Xi , Hu Shaoping , Lin Zhicheng , Xiong Nian
Published: June 2020

Background Worldwide spread of the novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has made hundreds of thousands people sick and fortunately many of them have been treated and discharged. However, it remains unclear how well the discharged patients were recovering. Chest CT scan, with demonstrated high sensitivity to COVID-19, was used here to examine clinical manifestations in patients at discharge.Methods This study registered retrospectively single-center case series of 180 discharged patients, all confirmed with COVID-19 at Wuhan Red Cross Hospital in Wuhan, China. Epidemiological, demographic, clinical, laboratory and treatment data were collected. CT imaging features of absorption vs progressive stage were compared and analyzed.Results Five pulmonary lobes were affected in 54 (30%) of the 180 patients at the absorption stage, comparing to 66% of them at the progressive stage (P=1.45×10-11). Forty five (25%) patients had pleural effusion on admission and 13 of them still carried hydrothorax when discharged as per standard discharge criteria(P=4.48×10-6). Besides, compared with those at progressive stage, 97 (54%) discharged patients had interlobular thickening (P=6.95×10-3) and 43% of them still presented adjacent pleura thickening (P=5.58×10-5). The median total CT score of discharged patients at absorption stage was lower than progressive stage (3 vs 12.5 ). The median total CT score recovery rate was 67% (range, 0-100%) and 139 (77%) patients showed less than 90% improvement at discharge.Conclusions A majority (77%) of the discharged patients had not recovered completely. The current discharge criteria may need to include 90% or higher CT score-based recovery rate.Authors Jingwen Li, Xi Long, Fang Fang, and Xuefei Lv contributed equally to this work.Authors Zhicheng Lin and Nian Xiong are joint last coauthors.
Natural Product Inhibitors of Cyclooxygenase (COX) Enzyme: A Review on Current Status and Future Perspectives
Authors: Ambati Goutami G. , Jachak Sanjay M.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Several clinically used COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitor drugs were reported
to possess severe side effects like GI ulcers and cardiovascular disturbances, respectively.
Natural products being structurally diverse always attracted the attention of chemists/
medicinal chemists as a potential source of lead molecules in the drug discovery process.
COX-2 inhibitory natural products also possess potential cancer chemopreventive property
against various cancers including that of colon, breast and prostate.

Methods:

Various in vitro, in vivo and in silico standardized methods were used to evaluate
COX inhibition property of different secondary metabolites isolated from plant, microbial and
marine origin.

Results:

We had earlier reported a detailed account of natural product inhibitors of COX reported
during 1995-2005, in 2006. In the proposed review, we report 158 natural product inhibitors
of COX during 2006 to 2019 belonging to various secondary metabolite classes such
as alkaloids, terpenoids, polyphenols as flavonoids, chromones, coumarins, lignans, anthraquinones,
naphthalenes, curcuminoids, diarylheptanoids and miscellaneous compounds of
plant and marine origin. Further Structure Activity Relationship (SAR) studies of possible
leads are also included in the article.

Conclusion:

COX inhibitors served as a potential source of lead molecules for the discovery
and development of anti-inflammatory drugs. Compilation of natural product and semisynthetic
inhibitors of COX may serve as valuable information to the researchers who are
looking for possible lead molecules from a natural source to conduct further preclinical and
clinical studies.
The P-MAPA Immunomodulator Partially Prevents Apoptosis Induced by Zika Virus Infection in THP-1 Cells
Authors: Lima Morganna C. , Azevedo Elisa A.N. , de Morais Clarice N.L. , de Sousa Larissa I.O. , Carvalho Bruno M. , da Silva Iseu N. , Franca Rafael F.O.
Published: June 2020

Background:

Zika virus is an emerging arbovirus of global importance. ZIKV infection is
associated with a range of neurological complications such as the Congenital Zika Syndrome and Guillain
Barré Syndrome. Despite the magnitude of recent outbreaks, there is no specific therapy to prevent
or to alleviate disease pathology.

Objective:

To investigate the role of P-MAPA immunomodulator in Zika-infected THP-1 cells.

Methods:

THP-1 cells were subjected to Zika virus infection (Multiplicity of Infection = 0.5) followed
by treatment with P-MAPA for until 96 hours post-infection. After that, the cell death was analyzed by
annexin+/ PI+ and caspase 3/ 7+ staining by flow cytometry. In addition, virus replication and cell proliferation
were accessed by RT-qPCR and Ki67 staining, respectively.

Results:

We demonstrate that P-MAPA in vitro treatment significantly reduces Zika virus-induced cell
death and caspase-3/7 activation on THP-1 infected cells, albeit it has no role in virus replication and
cell proliferation.

Conclusions:

Our study reveals that P-MAPA seems to be a satisfactory alternative to inhibit the effects
of Zika virus infection in mammalian cells.
Synthesis of Novel 1,2,3-Triazole Derivatives of Isocoumarins and 3,4-Dihydroisocoumarin with Potential Antiplasmodial Activity In Vitro
Authors: da Silva Santos Lucas , de Carvalho Matheus Fillipe Langanke , de Souza Pinto Ana Claudia , da Fonseca Amanda Luisa , Dias Lopes Julio César , de Pilla Varotti Fernando , de Freitas Rossimiriam Pereira , Alves Rosemeire Brondi
Published: June 2020

Background:

Malaria greatly affects the world health, having caused more than 228 million
cases only in 2018. The emergence of drug resistance is one of the main problems in its treatment, demonstrating
the need for the development of new antimalarial drugs.

Objective:

Synthesis and in vitro antiplasmodial evaluation of triazole compounds derived from isocoumarins
and a 3,4-dihydroisocoumarin.

Methods:

The compounds were synthesized in 4 to 6-step reactions with the formation of the triazole
ring via the Copper(I)-catalyzed 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition between isocoumarin or 3,4-
dihydroisocoumarin azides and terminal alkynes. This key reaction provided compounds with an unprecedented
connection of isocoumarin or 3,4-dihydroisocoumarin and the 1,2,3-triazole ring. The products
were tested for their antiplasmodial activity against a Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistant
and sensitive strains (W2 and 3D7, respectively).

Results:

Thirty-one substances were efficiently obtained by the proposed routes with an overall yield of
25-53%. The active substances in the antiplasmodial test displayed IC50 values ranging from 0.68-2.89
μM and 0.85-2.07 μM against W2 and 3D7 strains, respectively.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated the great potential of isocoumarin or 3,4-dihydroisocoumarin derivatives
because practically all the tested substances were active against Plasmodium falciparum.
In Silico Investigation: Opening Doors to Novel Thymidylate Synthase Inhibitors
Authors: Mittal Sheenu , Gupta Ankit , Monika  , Richa  , Chadha Renu , Dhingra Neelima
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Lung cancer is presumed to be the most notable cause of morbidity and impermanency
in human beings caused by uncontrolled cell proliferation of lung tissue which results in
abrupt synthesis of DNA.

Methods:

Prevention of DNA synthesis can show distinctive effect on lung cancer by utilizing Thymidylate
synthase (TS), a key rate-limiting enzyme in the DNA synthesis process. However, the
available finite aggregate of clinically approved blockers and their corresponding side effects lead
to the urgent origination of novel inhibitors.

Results and Discussion:

In silico approaches (QSAR and molecular docking) have been accomplished
to discover new potential inhibitors of TS providing a new strategy to evolve novel thymidylate
synthase inhibitors functional in lung cancer.

Conclusion:

In the present study chemical features of a series of compounds alongside their activities
alternating over numerous orders of magnitudes was utilized to generate QSAR models, and these
could be further employed to predict the activity of new designed compounds. 3D‒QSAR kNNSW
based model with decent statistical data having q2 approximately 95% (internal validation) and
80% (external validation) has validated the importance of steric feature. Further docking analysis using
D‒score and ligand receptor interactions indicated that all the studied compounds are well accommodated
in the binding pocket of TS and disparities in the activity are controlled by hydrogen
and hydrophobic interactions.
Effects of Nanobionics in Crop Production: A Review
Authors: Fasake Vinayak , Patil Nita , Javed Zoya , Mishra Mansi , Tripathi Gyan , Srivastava Ayushi , Dashora Kavya
Published: June 2020

Nanobionics involves the improvement of plant or plant productivity using nanomaterials.
Growth of a plant from a seed encompasses various factors that are directly or indirectly
dependent upon the imbibition of micro- and macro-nutrients and vital elements from the soil.
Since most of the nutrition is physiologically unavailable to the plants, it leads to mineral deficiencies
in the plant and mineral toxicity in the soil. Either way, it is not a favorable situation for the
microcosm. The new era of nanotechnology offers a potential solution to the availability of the nutrients
to the plants due to its unique chemical and physical properties of nanoparticles. The positive
and negative impact of these nanoparticles on seed quality and plant growth varies according
to the specific properties of nanoparticles. The present review is an attempt to summarize the impact
of nanobionics in agriculture.
Sheikh Nuruddin Al-Raniri Description Of Heaven In Bad 'Al-Khalq Al-Samawat Wa Al-Ard [MSS 1517(A)]
Authors: Shahruddin Mohd Solahuddin , Bhari Azri , Mohd Noor Muaz , Ismail Ahmad Zuhdi
Published: June 2020

Sheikh Nuruddin al-Raniri (d. 1658) is a renowned scholar in the Malay archipelago during the rule of Sultan Iskandar Thani (1636-1641 AD) in Acheh. He had authored 35 works on various disciplines of Islam and Bad 'al-Khalq al-Samawat wa al-Ard describes the concept of heaven genesis in Jawi manuscript MSS1517 (A). This article is a preliminary analysis of the manuscript focusing on excerpts of al-Raniri's exposition on the meaning of heaven and its categories. That heaven has respective names and inhabitants in the Day of Judgment.  Study on the biography of al-Raniri and the written scripture was conducted by analyzing al-Raniri's thinking pattern, which was extracted from the book. Moreover, the concept of the natural phenomenon was explained and discussed intensively following Islamic thinking. Then each phrase and al-Raniri’s ideology was clearly defined base on the interpretation of Qur’an and hadiths. Result of this study shows that the writing method done by al-Raniri was mostly focusing on imagining the condition of a specific place in heaven.
Keywords: al-Raniri; Bad 'al-Khalq al-Samawat wa al-Ard; heaven; earth
eISSN: 2398-4287 © 2020. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA cE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BYNC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v5iSI1.2300
An Element of Culture on Printmaking Artworks
Authors: Izwanna Nazzatul , Legino Rafeah , Jebakumari  , Mohd Salleh Noorziah
Published: June 2020

This paper examines the elements of culture in printmaking artworks. The objective of this study will analyse artworks that will show the stimuli of culture in artworks. Therefore, as to enhance this study, selected artworks were identified, analysed and determine their formulation of artworks. The process of categorization was based on the culture elements through the observation of the artwork. The outcome of this study showed that the artworks significantly illustrates how an artist appreciates the cultural aspects through the printmaking artworks. Most artworks raised the aesthetic appreciation for this country and shared the uniqueness of Malaysia’s culture into artwork.   
Keywords: Artworks, Culture, Printmaking, Malaysia.   
eISSN: 2398-4287 © 2020. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA cE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BYNC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.   DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v5iSI1.2306
Primary Analysis of Co-Creation Method: A conceptual framework for Malaysian interactive product development
Authors: Jantan Ramlan , Kamaruddin Norfadilah , Zainal Abidin Shahriman
Published: June 2020

Nowadays, the co-creation method has become a new development trend in the era of technology. Towards this scenario, design industry firms currently have transformed their development strategy from a good-dominant into service-dominant and more attention given to end-users in the development process. As a result, the conventional development process has been replaced with more cooperative development which is customer focus. Most of the Results from established sources such as journals and books have concluded. The framework is accumulated from both parties involved: the users and designers. This paper further contributes to the literature on the co-creation of value and digital ecosystems.   
Keywords: co-creation method; co-creation framework; co-creation.   
eISSN: 2398-4287 © 2020. The Authors. Published for AMER ABRA cE-Bs by e-International Publishing House, Ltd., UK. This is an open access article under the CC BYNC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/). Peer–review under responsibility of AMER (Association of Malaysian Environment-Behaviour Researchers), ABRA (Association of Behavioural Researchers on Asians) and cE-Bs (Centre for Environment-Behaviour Studies), Faculty of Architecture, Planning & Surveying, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia.   DOI: https://doi.org/10.21834/ebpj.v5iSI1.2309
Evaluation of Treatment Descriptions and Alignment With Clinical Guidance of Apps for Depression on App Stores: Systematic Search and Content Analysis
Authors: Bowie-DaBreo Dionne , Sünram-Lea Sandra I , Sas Corina , Iles-Smith Heather
Published: June 2020

Background

The use of apps for the treatment of depression shows great promise. However, there is uncertainty regarding the alignment of publicly available apps for depression with clinical guidance, their treatment fidelity and evidence base, and their overall safety.

Objective

Built on previous analyses and reviews, this study aims to explore the treatment and safety issues of publicly available apps for depression.

Methods

We conducted a content analysis of apps for depression in the 2 main UK app stores (Google Play and Apple App Store). App store listings were analyzed for intervention content, treatment fidelity, and fit with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines for the treatment of depression in adults.

Results

A total of 353 apps for depression were included in the review. App descriptions reported the use of 20 treatment approaches and 37 treatment strategies. Many apps used transdiagnostic (155/353, 43.9%) and multitheoretical interventions to treat multiple disorders including depression. Although many interventions appeared to be evidence-informed, there were issues with treatment fidelity, research evidence, and fit with clinical guidelines. None of the apps fully aligned with the NICE guidelines for depression.

Conclusions

App developers have adopted many evidence-informed treatments in their interventions; however, more work is needed to improve clinical validity, treatment fidelity, and the safety of apps. We urge developers to consult relevant guidelines and standards, and to engage in reflective questioning on treatment and safety to address these issues and to improve treatment content and intervention design.
Comparing Conventional Chemotherapy to Chronomodulated Chemotherapy for Cancer Treatment: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Kilgallen Aoife B , Štibler Urška , Printezi Markella I , Putker Marrit , Punt Cornelis J A , Sluijter Joost P G , May Anne M , van Laake Linda W
Published: June 2020

Background

Chronomodulated chemotherapy aims to achieve maximum drug safety and efficacy by adjusting the time of treatment to an optimal biological time as determined by the circadian clock. Although it is a promising alternative to conventional (non–time-stipulated) chemotherapy in several instances, the lack of scientific consensus and the increased logistical burden of timed administration limit the use of a chronomodulated administration protocol.

Objective

With the goal to increase scientific consensus on this subject, we plan to conduct a systematic review of the current literature to compare the drug safety and efficacy of chronomodulated chemotherapy with those of conventional chemotherapy.

Methods

This systematic review will comply with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for the Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. In order to identify relevant studies, we conducted a comprehensive search in PubMed and Embase on May 18, 2020. We included clinical studies that compare either the safety or efficacy of chronomodulated chemotherapy with that of conventional chemotherapy. Potential studies will be reviewed and screened by 2 independent reviewers. Quality assessment will be performed using the National Institutes of Health’s Study Quality Assessment Tool (Quality Assessment of Controlled Intervention Studies). Disagreements will be resolved by consulting a third independent reviewer.

Results

This protocol has received funding, and the search for studies from databases commenced on May 18, 2020. The systematic review is planned to be completed by October 31, 2020.

Conclusions

In this systematic review, we will compare drug safety and drug efficacy for cancer patients who were administered either chronomodulated chemotherapy or conventional chemotherapy. Moreover, we will highlight the outcomes and quality of the selected trials for this review.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42020177878; https://tinyurl.com/y53w9nq6

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/18023
Smartphone Apps Targeting Physical Activity in People With Rheumatoid Arthritis: Systematic Quality Appraisal and Content Analysis
Authors: Bearne Lindsay M , Sekhon Mandeep , Grainger Rebecca , La Anthony , Shamali Mehrdad , Amirova Aliya , Godfrey Emma L , White Claire M
Published: June 2020

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disabling, inflammatory joint condition affecting 0.5%-1% of the global population. Physical activity (PA) and exercise are recommended for people with RA, but uptake and adherence tend to be low. Smartphone apps could assist people with RA to achieve PA recommendations. However, it is not known whether high quality, evidence-informed PA apps that include behavior change techniques (BCTs) previously identified as effective for PA adherence are available for people with RA.

Objective

This study aims to systematically identify apps that include goals to facilitate PA for adults with RA and assess app quality and content for the inclusion of relevant BCTs against recommendations for cardiorespiratory, resistance, flexibility, and neuromotor PA and exercise.

Methods

A systematic search of the Apple App Store and Google Play Store in the United Kingdom was conducted to identify English language apps that promote PA for adults with RA. Two researchers independently assessed app quality (mobile app rating scale [MARS]; range 0-5) and content (BCT Taxonomy version 1, World Health Organization, the American College of Sports Medicine, and the European League against Rheumatism recommendations for PA). The completeness of reporting of PA prescription was evaluated using a modified version of the Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template (CERT; range 0-14).

Results

A total of 14,047 apps were identified. Following deduplication, 2737 apps were screened for eligibility; 6 apps were downloaded (2 on the Apple App Store and 4 on the Google Play Store), yielding 4 unique apps. App quality varied (MARS score 2.25-4.17). Only 1 app was congruent with all aspects of the PA recommendations. All apps completely or partially recommended flexibility and resistance exercises, 3 apps completely or partially advised some form of neuromotor exercise, but only 2 offered full or partial guidance on cardiorespiratory exercise. Completeness of exercise reporting was mixed (CERT scores 7-14 points) and 3-7 BCTs were identified. Two BCTs were common to all apps (information about health consequences and instruction on how to perform behavior). Higher quality apps included a greater number of BCTs and were more closely aligned to PA guidance. No published trials evaluating the effect of the included apps were identified.

Conclusions

This review identifies 4 PA apps of mixed quality and content for use by people with RA. Higher quality apps were more closely aligned to PA guidance and included a greater number of BCTs. One high-quality app (Rheumatoid Arthritis Information Support and Education) included 7 BCTs and was fully aligned with PA and exercise guidance. The effect of apps on PA adherence should be established before implementation.
Data Validation and Verification Using Blockchain in a Clinical Trial for Breast Cancer: Regulatory Sandbox (Preprint)
Authors: Hirano Tomonobu , Motohashi Tomomitsu , Okumura Kosuke , Takajo Kentaro , Kuroki Taiyo , Ichikawa Daisuke , Matsuoka Yutaka , Ochi Eisuke , Ueno Taro
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The integrity of data in a clinical trial is essential, but the current data management process is too complex and highly labor-intensive. As a result, clinical trials are prone to consuming a lot of budget and time, and there is a risk for human-induced error and data falsification. Blockchain technology has the potential to address some of these challenges.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to validate a system that enables the security of medical data in a clinical trial using blockchain technology.

METHODS

We have developed a blockchain-based data management system for clinical trials and tested the system through a clinical trial for breast cancer. The project was conducted to demonstrate clinical data management using blockchain technology under the regulatory sandbox enabled by the Japanese Cabinet Office.

RESULTS

We verified and validated the data in the clinical trial using the validation protocol and tested its resilience to data tampering. The robustness of the system was also proven by survival with zero downtime for clinical data registration during a Amazon Web Services disruption event in the Tokyo region on August 23, 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

We show that our system can improve clinical trial data management, enhance trust in the clinical research process, and ease regulator burden. The system will contribute to the sustainability of health care services through the optimization of cost for clinical trials.
Induction of Efficacy Expectancies in an Ambulatory Smartphone-Based Digital Placebo Mental Health Intervention: Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Stalujanis Esther , Neufeld Joel , Glaus Stalder Martina , Belardi Angelo , Tegethoff Marion , Meinlschmidt Gunther
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

There is certain evidence on the efficacy of smartphone-based mental health interventions. However, the mechanisms of action remain unclear. Placebo effects contribute to the efficacy of face-to-face mental health interventions and may also be a potential mechanism of action in smartphone-based interventions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate whether different types of efficacy expectancies as potential factors underlying placebo effects could be successfully induced in a smartphone-based digital placebo mental health intervention, ostensibly targeting mood and stress.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized, controlled, single-blinded, superiority trial with a multi-arm parallel design. Participants underwent an Android smartphone-based digital placebo mental health intervention for 20 days. We induced prospective efficacy expectancies via initial instructions on the purpose of the intervention and retrospective efficacy expectancies via feedback on the success of the intervention at days 1, 4, 7, 10, and 13. A total of 132 healthy participants were randomized to a prospective expectancy–only condition (n=33), a retrospective expectancy–only condition (n=33), a combined expectancy condition (n=34), or a control condition (n=32). As the endpoint, we assessed changes in efficacy expectancies with the Credibility Expectancy Questionnaire, before the intervention and on days 1, 7, 14, and 20. For statistical analyses, we used a random effects model for the intention-to-treat sample, with intervention day as time variable and condition as two factors: prospective expectancy (yes vs no) and retrospective expectancy (yes vs no), allowed to vary over participant and intervention day.

RESULTS

Credibility (β=−1.63; 95% CI −2.37 to −0.89; P<.001) and expectancy (β=−0.77; 95% CI −1.49 to −0.05; P=.04) decreased across the intervention days. For credibility and expectancy, we found significant three-way interactions: intervention day×prospective expectancy×retrospective expectancy (credibility: β=2.05; 95% CI 0.60-3.50; P=.006; expectancy: β=1.55; 95% CI 0.14-2.95; P=.03), suggesting that efficacy expectancies decreased least in the combined expectancy condition and the control condition.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, this is the first empirical study investigating whether efficacy expectancies can be successfully induced in a specifically designed placebo smartphone-based mental health intervention. Our findings may pave the way to diminish or exploit digital placebo effects and help to improve the efficacy of digital mental health interventions.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinicaltrials.gov NCT02365220; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02365220.
Association Between Usage of an App to Redeem Prescribed Food Benefits and Redemption Behaviors Among the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children Participants: Cross-Sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zhang Junzhou , Park Kayoung , Tang Chuanyi
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is one of the most important food assistance programs in the United States, serving 6.4 million low-income, eligible women, infants, and children under 5 years of age in 2019. In the program, participants are prescribed a list of food benefits, which can be redeemed in WIC-authorized stores. However, there are multiple behavioral barriers in the program and the stores that prevent participants from redeeming the benefits fully.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to examine the relationship between the use of a widely used mobile phone app, WICShopper, and the redemption of the prescribed food packages.

METHODS

WIC administrative data were obtained from West Virginia for the period January 2019 to January 2020 and included 30,440 WIC households that had received food benefits in that period. The redemption rates of 18 WIC food benefits were compared between app users and nonapp users, that is, those who never used the app in the study period. The use behaviors were defined for the app users, including the number of active use benefit cycles, active benefit cycle rates, number of active use days in the cycle, and proportion rates of daytime use. Panel linear regressions were applied to examine how the redemption rates were related to these behaviors over time.

RESULTS

App users consistently had higher average redemption rates than nonapp users; the difference ranged from 3.6% (4.8% relative) for infant formula to 14.3% (40.7% relative) for fish. After controlling for sociodemographics, the coefficients of app use were significantly positive for all benefit categories except for WIC-eligible nutritionals. More active cycles and active days in the cycle were significantly related to redemption rates for all categories, except for frozen juice (coefficient=−0.002, P=.09). Daytime app access was positively associated with redemption rates for most food benefits except only a few, such as infant formula (coefficient=−0.03, P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Use of the WIC app was significantly related to higher redemption rates across food benefits, although the association varied across benefit categories. More active days were positively related to benefit redemptions across food categories, and the app’s daytime use was positively associated with the redemption of most benefit categories. These findings suggest that the WIC app can be an important tool for the promotion of benefit redemption among WIC participants.
Predictors of Walking Activity in Patients With Systolic Heart Failure Equipped With a Step Counter: Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Gade Josefine Dam , Spindler Helle , Hollingdal Malene , Refsgaard Jens , Dittmann Lars , Frost Lars , Mahboubi Kiomars , Dinesen Birthe
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Physical activity has been shown to decrease cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Walking, a simple physical activity which is an integral part of daily life, is a feasible and safe activity for patients with heart failure (HF). A step counter, measuring daily walking activity, might be a motivational factor for increased activity.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine the association between walking activity and demographical and clinical data of patients with HF, and whether these associations could be used as predictors of walking activity.

METHODS

A total of 65 patients with HF from the Future Patient Telerehabilitation (FPT) program were included in this study. The patients monitored their daily activity using a Fitbit step counter for 1 year. This monitoring allowed for continuous and safe data transmission of self-monitored activity data.

RESULTS

A higher walking activity was associated with younger age, lower New York Heart Association (NYHA) classification, and higher ejection fraction (EF). There was a statistically significant correlation between the number of daily steps and NYHA classification at baseline (P=.01), between the increase in daily steps and EF at baseline (P<.001), and between the increase in daily steps and improvement in EF (P=.005). The patients’ demographic, clinical, and activity data could predict 81% of the variation in daily steps.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated an association between demographic, clinical, and activity data for patients with HF that could predict daily steps. A step counter can thus be a useful tool to help patients monitor their own physical activity.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03388918; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03388918

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR2-10.2196/14517
Food Offerings of Ngesur Tanah Salvation in Belikurip Village, Wonogiri Regency: An Ethnolinguistic Study
Authors: Baehaqie Imam
Published: June 2020

The purpose of this study was to describe the cultural significance of food offerings in ngesur tanah salvation in Belikurip Village, Wonogiri, Central Java, Indonesia using an ethnolinguistic approach. In data collection, the researcher employed observation and conversation methods which were then analyzed by the ethnographic method by utilizing the triangular meaning proposed by Lyons (1977). It discovered 10 names of food: (1) tumpeng bathok bolu, (2) tumpeng ungkur-ungkuran, (3) undur-undur, (4) tumpeng gung, (5) tumpeng krumpul, (6) tumpeng marga pakewuh, (7) tumpeng obor, (8) sekul suci, (9) samiran, and (10) jenang sepuh. The essence of the offering is the request for salvation for the departed soul and for the family left behind. The results of this study indicate that the use of language (food names) reflect a cultural phenomenon, namely the religious system of offerings from individuals who believe that the deceased’s spirit remains alive and is fully responsible for his or her actions while living in the world. There also appears to be acculturation with other beliefs and religions.
Determinants of Student Absenteeism/Presenteeism in Qatar: A Path Analysis
Authors: Sellami Abdel Latif , El-Kassem Rima Charbaji , Alqassass Haneen B. K. , Al-Emadi Ahmed
Published: June 2020

The current study sought to investigate the perceptions of school teachers regarding student absenteeism and presenteeism in the State of Qatar. Drawing on the existing relevant literature in the field and based on a survey research method, the study was carried out during the first term (Fall semester) in 2015. The study involved preparatory (middle) and secondary (high) school teachers at both public (Independent) and private (International) schools in Qatar. To attain this goal, a causal model was used to examine the causes that shape teachers’ perceptions of absenteeism and presenteeism. The data required for the present research was collected from a sample of 495 teachers at Independent and International schools. Based on factor analysis, the findings concluded from the study indicated that seven valid dimensions were extracted. In addition, three determinant factors that influence the perceptions of preparatory and secondary school teachers with regard to students’ absentee and presentee behaviours were identified. These factors are: (a) reviewing curriculum content, (b) the teaching load, and (c) the expected rate of student graduations. The study concludes by offering some important recommendations for education practitioners and policy makers as well as some useful suggestions for future research and practice.
Implementation of Support Programs for Life Long Educational Inclusion of Students with Special Needs
Authors: -Xia Feng , -Xu Yuzhen , -Jiang Li
Published: June 2020

With the implementation of inclusive education, students with special needs, such as learning disabilities, emotional & behavioral disorders, speech & language disabilities, autism, and gifted children, are in need of professional support. In the future, inclusive education will focus on compulsory education and continuously extend to early intervention and eldly service until lifelong education. Based on the overall education goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development issued by the United Nations Development Summit, Shanghai Changning District has carried out a practical exploration from mainstreaming to lifelong inclusive education, with the concept of “universal, inclusive and lifelong”, has developed and implemented support programs, providing “group”, “categories” and “individual” support for school-age, preschool and post-school-age students with special needs, developed and implemented 37 transition service programs including five stages: from home to kinder garden, from kindergarten to primary school, from primary school to junior middle school, from junior middle school to special vocational school; after special vocational school.
FORMULATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF SOLID LIPID NANOPARTICLES CONTAINING GINGER OIL FOR ENHANCEMENT OF STABILITY
Authors: SAWANT PRIYANKA , KAREKAR POONAM , WAGHMARE KARISHMA
Published: June 2020

Objective: To develop and characterize ginger oil loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) for enhancement of its stability.

Methods: Ginger oil loaded SLNs were prepared in four different batches by double emulsification method using different concentrations of soya lecithin and Tween 80. Further, these batches were characterized for particle size, zeta potential, drug entrapment efficiency and in vitro release study. After observing the results, batch F4 was further characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Transmission Electron Spectroscopy (TEM) and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). In addition the optimized batch was subjected to anti-microbial study. Finally, stability studies were done by storing the F4 formulation at accelerated condition, room temperature, refrigerated temperature and photostability were performed by exposing the formulation to UV/fluorescence lamp for 6 mo.

Results: The encapsulation efficiency of various batches of SLNs was in the range of 79.75 to 90.24%. The size ranges varied between 50 to 1000 nm. Zeta potential of all formulations was found to be in the range of-44.52 to-49.37 mV. The FTIR spectra of optimized F4 batch indicated no significant structural changes or complexation reactions between drug and excipients. Moreover, TEM image of displayed spherical shape with smooth surface. In vitro drug release study exhibited 95% drug release up to 12 h which indicated suitability of formulation. Thus F4 batch formulation stored at room temperature and refrigerated conditions was found most stable while, accelerated and photostability samples were found to be most susceptible in comparison.

Conclusion: The physicochemical stability of ginger oil extract was enhanced by loading it into solid lipid nanocarriers; the resulting SLNs also showed good antimicrobial potential against Klebsiella pneumonia throughout storage conditions.
Urbanização extensiva e reconfiguração rural na Amazônia: uma proposta teórico-metodológica baseada em indicadores demográficos e espaciais
Authors: Côrtes Julia Corrêa , De Oliveira D'Antona Álvaro , Ojima Ricardo
Published: June 2020

Este trabalho resulta da reconstrução teórico-conceitual realizada para verificar empiricamente a existência de urbanização extensiva na Amazônia com base na incorporação de noções demográficas ao referencial em questão. Observou-se como o tecido urbano contribui para a reconfiguração rural, evidenciando as múltiplas dimensões que perpassam o fenômeno urbano. Com indicadores demográficos sensíveis aos processos socioespaciais urbano-rurais, foram analisados territórios rurais de dois recortes regionais no oeste do estado do Pará. Os resultados confirmam que a propagação dos vetores urbanos tende a intensificar a aglomeração populacional (coeficiente de Gini) e a predominância espacial de mulheres (razão de sexo) por mecanismos de diferenciações espaciais. A existência de um eixo de mobilidade populacional, o regime de ocupação e a distância do centro urbano são os elementos estruturantes da emergência de um mosaico de ruralidades imersas em contextos urbanos. Com os resultados, concebeu-se um modelo teórico-metodológico com uma abordagem analítica inédita na literatura sobre urbanização.
Comparación de la castración quirúrgica al nacimiento versus inmunocastration sobre las características de la canal y carne en machos Holstein
Authors: Cervantes-Cazares Jorge A. , Pérez-Linares Cristina , Figueroa-Saavedra Fernando , Tamayo-Sosa Alma R. , Barreras-Serrano Alberto , Ríos-Rincón Francisco G. , Sánchez-López Eduardo , García-Reynoso Isaa C. , Mendoza Peraza Pedro , León Villanueva Angelina , García-Vega Luis A.
Published: June 2020

El objetivo fue comparar el efecto de la castración quirúrgica al nacimiento vs immunocastración, sobre las características de la canal y carne en machos Holstein en engorda; se utilizaron 720 machos Holstein aproximadamente de 7 a 8 meses de edad con peso inicial de 240.82 kg. Se formaron 2 tratamientos con 4 corrales de 90 animales en cada uno: toros castrados quirúrgicamente que fueron castrados 24 h después del nacimiento y toros inmunocastrados vacunados con Bopriva aplicando cuatro dosis, al día 1, 21, 101 y 181 de engorda. Se tomaron pesos individuales en cada vacunación. Los animales se sacrificaron a los 242 días de engorda. A partir de la segunda vacunación se observaron diferencias (P<0.05) en pesos, presentando valores mas altos los animales castrados quirúrgicamente. El peso final al sacrificio, peso de la canal caliente, peso de la canal fría, espesor de grasa dorsal y área del ojo de la costilla fueron diferentes (P<0.05) entre  tratamientos, observando valores más altos en los machos castrados quirúrgicamente. En la carne, el pH y EC fueron similares (P>0.05) entre tratamientos mientras que los valores de b*, C* y H* fueron más altos (P<0.05) en los animales inmunocastrados. Para fines de producción, el sacrificar los machos Holstein al nacimiento, se obtienen animales más pesados y con mejores características en la canal; sin embargo es importante evaluar el impacto del bienestar animal por la castración al nacimiento.