bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introgression of anthracnose resistance Co-4 gene in elite French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) background using linked molecular marker SY20
Authors: . Bansuli
Published: February 2022

French bean is one of the most important staple foods in many parts of the world. Among several bacterial, fungal and viral diseases, anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum lindemuthianum is the most widespread and severe disease of French bean. Therefore, the present study was undertaken with the objective of introgression of important bean anthracnose resistance gene Co-4 in elite cultivar. Hybridisation between resistant genotype, TO having bean anthracnose resistance gene Co-4 and elite cultivar Arka Komal was done. Cross Arka Komal × TO was further advanced to generate F1, BC1F1, BC2F1 and BC2F2 plants. Testing of hybridity of the resultant F1, BC1F1, BC2F1 and BC2F2 plants/pods using gene linked SCAR marker SY20 resulted in identification of 46 gene-positive BC2F2. Further foreground selection revealed lack of segregation for the target gene Co-4 in 16 progenies. Screening of progenies following detached pod and germinated seed dip methods using race 3 of C. lindemuthianum validated Co-4 imparted resistance in all the 16 BC2F3 progenies. Agronomic evaluation of 16 Co-4 gene-positive BC2F4 progenies for 8 qualitative traits and 9 quantitative traits identified AKTO 4, AKTO 5, AKTO 7 and AKTO 43 progenies as having better elite background. These can either be used as donors of resistance gene for further introgression and gene pyramiding or can further be advanced following backcrossing to develop essentially derived variety of elite parent, Arka Komal.
Factors that Influence the Decision to Vape among Indigenous Youth
Authors: Struik Laura L. , Werstuik Saige-Taylor , Dow-Fleisner Sarah , Ben-David Shelly , Sundstrom Alyssa
Published: February 2022

Background: The use of e-cigarettes (vaping) among Indigenous youth is much higher than that of their non-Indigenous counterparts, which has raised the concerns of various Indigenous scholars and communities. To better understand the most salient constructs that influence Indigenous youth decision-making around vaping, we co-created a qualitative research study with a Syilx First Nation community that was guided by the Unified Theory of Behavior (UTB). Methods: Through semi-structured interviews and a sharing circle, we gathered the perspectives and experiences of 16 Syilx youth. After an initial collaborative coding and training session, the interviews were transcribed and coded by Indigenous peer researchers using Nvivo. The final set of inductive themes were collaboratively developed. Results: Syilx youth reported that vaping decision-making is underpinned by colonialism, and the historical disproportionate impact of the tobacco industry. The youth spoke to several individual determinants that influence intentions to vape (e.g., vaping helps you cope), determinants that translate intentions to vape to decision to vape (e.g., access to vaping), individual determinants that influence intentions to not vape (e.g., family/community connectedness), and determinants that translate intentions to vape to decision to vape (e.g., access to supportive adults/band). The youth suggested that prevention efforts must first be informed by an understanding of why Indigenous youth vape.Conclusions: Vaping decision-making among Indigenous youth is underpinned by their cultures, contexts, and histories. In order to effectively address vaping among Indigenous youth, continued engagement of Indigenous youth in planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating both prevention and policies efforts is a necessity.
Electrocatalytic Selenium Redox Reaction for High-Mass-Loading Zinc-Selenium Batteries with Improved Kinetics and Selenium Utilization
Authors: Ma Longtao , Ying Yiran , Chen Shengmei , Chen Ze , Li Hongfei , Huang Haitao , Zhao Lingzhi , ZHI Chunyi
Published: February 2022

The consensus practice in research of high energy density energy storage devices is to simultaneously achieve high areal capacity and high intrinsic specific capacity. Increasing the areal capacity of batteries necessitates the maximization of their mass loading. However, batteries usually deliver mass loading-dependent electrochemical performance. Take selenium (Se) cathode with a theoretically high specific capacity as an example, Se reaction kinetics, utilization and cycling lifespan seriously deteriorate with increased Se mass loading. Here, we propose an electrocatalytic Se reduction/oxidation reaction strategy to realize high-Se-loading Zn||Se batteries with fast kinetics and high Se utilization. Specifically, the synergetic effects of Cu and Co transition-metal species inside channel structure of host can effectively immobilize and catalytically convert Sen during cycling, which thus facilitates Se utilization and 6-electron (Se4+ \(\leftrightarrow\) Se2–) conversion kinetics. In particular, the Cu[Co(CN)6] host exhibits a remarkably low energy barrier (1.63 kJ·mol−1) and low Tafel slope (95.23 mV·dec−1) for the Se reduction, and highest current response for Se oxidation. Accordingly, the Zn battery employing Se-in-Cu[Co(CN)6] cathode delivers a capacity of 664.7 mAh⋅g−1 at 0.2 A⋅g−1, an excellent rate capability with 430.6 mAh⋅g−1 achieved even at 10 A⋅g−1, and long-cyclic life over 6000 cycles with 90.6% capacity retention. Furthermore, an A-h-level (~1350 mAh) Zn||Se pouch-type battery with high Se loading (~12.3 mg(Se)⋅cm−2) shows a high Se utilization of 3.3 % and outstanding cyclic stability with 9.4 % initial capacity retained after 400 cycles at exceedin 98 % Coulombic efficiency.
Computational Thinking and Educational Robotics Integrated into Project-Based Learning
Authors: Valls Albert
Published: February 2022

In the context of the STEAM discipline in education, subjects tend to fall into contextualized activities or projects. Educational robotics and computational thinking have the potential to be subjects, although not all educational programs provide for it. Although the use of technology and programming platforms is widespread, it is not common practice to integrate computational thinking and educational robotics into the official curriculum in the field of secondary school.That is why this paper continues with the initial project of integrating computational thinking and educational robotics in the La Salle Bonanova school, a secondary school in Barcelona, Spain. This study presents project-based learning which the main focus is the development of skills related to STEAM subjects and the acquisition of computational thinking knowledge in a 2nd year of use in a block-based programming environment.
Urban vultures preferentially roost at sites surrounded by more developed land cover and lower deer carcass density.
Authors: Partridge Hannah , Gagné Sara
Published: February 2022

Context. Land cover changes resulting from urbanization alter habitat structure and resource availability. Vultures provide ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling and may help limit disease transmission, making them an important feature of urban areas. Urbanization may have positive and negative impacts on vultures, such as increasing foraging opportunities and decreasing nesting success, complicating our understanding of the effect of urbanization on these species. Objectives. We examined how local and landscape features affect roost attendance of black vultures (Coragyps atratus) and turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) to better understand the factors that play a role in site selection and habitat and landscape use. Methods. We counted the number of vultures at twenty-nine roosting sites in the Charlotte Metropolitan Area, NC once a month between November and March over two years. At each roosting site, we measured roosting structure height, vegetation height, and open space, and calculated the amounts of developed land cover, open water, developed-forest edge density, and deer carcass density in surrounding landscapes of 0.4 to 20km radii. Results. The best model for roost attendance included wind speed, vegetation height, developed land cover within 15km, developed-forest edge density within 15km, deer carcass density within 15 and 20km, and survey date. Developed land cover was associated with higher roost attendance while other variables were associated with lower roost attendance. Conclusions. The effects of landscape variables on roost attendance suggests urban vultures are relying more on trash and anthropogenic food sources, which may alter nutrient cycling, disease dynamics, and reproductive success.
Complete Genome Sequence of Amazon Lily Mosaic Virus Isolated From Amaryllis (Hippeastrum Hybridum Hort.)
Authors: Lin Chian-Chi , Chen Tsung-Chi
Published: February 2022

In April 2011, a virus was isolated by single lesion isolation on Chenopodium quinoa leaves from an amaryllis plant with chlorotic ringspots at a private garden in Changhua County, Taiwan. The Illumina MiSeq sequencing system was used to determine the genomic nucleotide (nt) sequence of the virus. A de novo assembled contig with 9377 nt, containing a putative open reading frame of the potyviral polyprotein, was annotated as the potyvirus Amazon lily mosaic virus (ALiMV) by sharing 95.5% nt identity with a partial genomic sequence of ALiMV available in GenBank. Therefore, the amaryllis virus was designated as ALiMV-TW. Through 5´ and 3´ rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACEs), the complete genome sequence of ALiMV-TW was clarified as 9618 nt. Sequence analysis indicated that the genome and polyprotein of ALiMV-TW share 52.3%-65.1% nt identity and 30.1%-64.2% aa identity with those of other potyviruses, respectively. This is the first report to elucidate the complete genome sequence of Amazon lily mosaic virus.
Cross-cultural validation of the Dutch version of the Vertigo Symptom Scale – Short Form questionnaire in general practice
Authors: Noordzij Anisa S. Y. , Terluin Berend , Wouden Johannes C. van der , Horst Henriëtte E. van der , Essery Rosie , Yardley Lucy , Maarsingh Otto R. , Vugt Vincent A. van
Published: February 2022

Background The Vertigo Symptom Scale – Short Form (VSS-SF) is a widely used questionnaire to measure vestibular symptoms such as dizziness and vertigo. We aimed to translate and cross-culturally validate the Dutch version of the VSS-SF. Methods We performed a psychometric evaluation study in general practice. First, we followed international guidelines to translate the VSS-SF into Dutch. We assessed the comprehensibility of the Dutch translation by interviewing 20 older adults with dizziness. Next, we used data from patients aged 50 years and older with chronic dizziness who participated in British (n=296) and Dutch (n=322) randomized controlled trials to evaluate measurement invariance. In this cross-cultural validation analysis we used ordinal logistic regression to detect potential differential item functioning (DIF) and differential test functioning (DTF). ResultsAccording to the 20 patients we interviewed, the Dutch translation of the VSS-SF was clear and comprehensible. We detected small DIF on 2 of the 15 items of the questionnaire. However, the effect of these DIFs on the overall scale was negligible. ConclusionsWe developed a comprehensible and cross-culturally valid Dutch translation of the VSS-SF. This questionnaire can be used to assess vestibular symptoms in general practice.
Marker-Assisted Backcrossing For Introgression of Broad-Spectrum Bacterial Leaf Blight Resistance In MR297 Malaysian Elite Variety
Authors: Aljumaili Saba Jasim , Rafii M. Y. , Zaharah S. S. , Khairulmazmi A. , Yusuff Oladosu
Published: February 2022

One of the most critical aspects of marker-assisted backcross breeding is recurrent parent genome recovery (RPGR). RPGR ensures that only the genes of interest are retained without further segregation in the recombined progenies while the unwanted genomic segments are completely deleted. This experiment aimed to introgress multiple bacterial leaf blight (BLB) resistance genes against using marker-assisted backcross breeding. Four Xoo resistance genes viz: Xa21, xa13, xa5, and Xa4 from IRBB60 were introgressed into the genetic background of MR297 Malaysian, which is considered a high yield. Polymorphic functional linked markers to target genes and SSR markers were used for both foreground and background selection. The percentage of RPGR in the selected lines, a background selection was adopted using 83 approved polymorphic microsatellites markers. The study results reveal RPGR of 81.94%, 92.30%, and 95.32% at BC1F1, BC2F1, and BC2F2, respectively. Marker-assisted backcross breeding often shows a faster introgression resistance gene than traditional breeding. The introgression of four BLB resistance genes Xa21, xa13, xa5, and Xa4 in the nine newly developed lines would provide durable and broad-spectrum resistance against the bacterial leaf blight. The newly created lines were suggested for commercial production as new rice varieties.
Evaluation of Sweetpotato Cultivars with Varying Canopy Architectures in Conventional and a Reduced-tillage Rye Production System
Authors: Smith Stephen C. , Jennings Katherine M. , Monks David W. , Jordan David L. , Reberg-Horton S. Chris , Schwarz Michael R.
Published: February 2022

Field studies were conducted in North Carolina in 2019 and 2020 to determine the effect of a reduced-tillage, high-residue rye (Secale cereal) cover crop system on soil health, and growth and storage root yield of sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas) cultivars having upright (NC04-0531 or NC15-650) or prostrate (Covington or Bayou Belle) vining characteristics. Sweetpotato canopy width expanded quicker in the conventional tillage system than the reduced-tillage rye system. Prostrate sweetpotato cultivars had greater late-season canopy widths than upright cultivars. Soil bulk density of raised beds was greatest in the reduced-tillage rye system, but both systems remained within the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommended range for soil bulk density. The conventional-tillage system resulted in 17% more marketable roots; however, no differences were observed in total marketable root weight between systems. ‘Covington’ and ‘NC15-650’ had greater marketable yield than ‘NC04-0531’ but less marketable yield than ‘Bayou Belle’.
THE EFFECT OF CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND QUALITY OF REPORTING ON FIRM VALUES
Authors: Meirini Dianita
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of corporate governance and reporting quality on firm value. This study replicates the research conducted by Siagian in 2002. The study examined the effect of the corporate governance index and the quality of financial statement disclosures on firm value. However, this study has differences in the measurements used in Siagian research. In line with the changes in SAK, Bapepam issued a financial statement disclosure checklist whose use is based on Bapepam Rule number VIII.G.7. In this study, researchers aimed to examine the corporate governance index produced through research by The Indonesian Institute for Corporate Governance (IICG) and the quality of reporting using the new checklist standard issued by Bapepam in its influence on company value. This study uses secondary data, from companies registered in the Corporate Governance Perception Index (CGPI) in 20011-2013. The analytical method used is multiple linear regression. The results of this study indicate that the corporate governance index has a significant positive effect on firm value. However, the quality of reporting measured through the disclosure score of financial statements is negatively related and not significant to the value of the company. This shows that investors do not pay much attention to the quality of financial statement disclosures as a basis for determining investment decisions.
THE EFFECT OF LIQUIDITY, SOLVABILITY, BINDING TIME, AND AUDITOR CHANGES ON THE AUDIT DELAY OF MANUFACTURING COMPANIES ON INDONESIA STOCK EXCHANGE LIST
Authors: Utami Vina Putri
Published: February 2022

This research is motivated by the importance of paying attention to audit delay in the delivery of financial reports and audit reports. This report is used for decision making, so the audit report must be submitted on time. So that the factors that can affect the audit delay need to be considered, for example liquidity, solvency, the length of the engagement, and the change of auditors. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of the variable liquidity, solvency, length of engagement, and auditor turnover on audit delay of manufacturing companies listed on the IDX. Using this type of associative research and sampling using purposive sampling, the research shows the following results. Partially the liquidity, solvency, engagement period and auditor turnover variables have a significant effect on the audit delay of manufacturing companies listed on the IDX. Simultaneously, the variable liquidity, solvency, engagement period and auditor turnover have a significant effect on audit delay for manufacturing companies listed on the IDX.
Quantum Monte Carlo simulations in the trimer basis: first-order transitions and thermal critical points in frustrated trilayer magnets
Authors: Weber Lukas , Honecker Andreas , Normand Bruce , Corboz Philippe , Mila Frédéric , Wessel Stefan
Published: February 2022

The phase diagrams of highly frustrated quantum spin systems can exhibit
first-order quantum phase transitions and thermal critical points even in
the absence of any long-ranged magnetic order. However, all unbiased numerical
techniques for investigating frustrated quantum magnets face significant
challenges, and for generic quantum Monte Carlo methods the challenge is
the sign problem. Here we report on a general quantum Monte Carlo approach with a loop-update scheme that operates in any basis, and we show that, with an appropriate choice of basis, it allows us to study a frustrated model of coupled spin-1/2 trimers: simulations of the trilayer Heisenberg antiferromagnet in the
spin-trimer basis are sign-problem-free when the intertrimer couplings are
fully frustrated. This model features a first-order quantum phase transition,
from which a line of first-order transitions emerges at finite temperatures
and terminates in a thermal critical point. The trimer unit cell hosts an
internal degree of freedom that can be controlled to induce an extensive
entropy jump at the quantum transition, which alters the shape of the
first-order line. We explore the consequences for the thermal properties
in the vicinity of the critical point, which include profound changes in
the lines of maxima defined by the specific heat. Our findings reveal
trimer quantum magnets as fundamental systems capturing in full the
complex thermal physics of the strongly frustrated regime.
EXPERIMENTAÇÃO ARTICULADA ÀS TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS DE INFORMAÇÃO E COMUNICAÇÃO: PROBLEMATIZAÇÕES DE CONHECIMENTOS NA FORMAÇÃO DE PROFESSORES DE QUÍMICA
Authors: Guaita Renata , Gonçalves Fábio
Published: February 2022

EXPERIMENTATION RELATED TO DIGITAL INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES: PROBLEMATIZATIONS OF KNOWLEDGES IN THE TRAINING OF CHEMISTRY TEACHERS. Currently, there is a great diffusion of Digital Technologies of Information and Communication (DICT) in society in general and in schools in particular. Thus, the objective of this work was to investigate knowledge explained by 13 undergraduates in Chemistry, in the development of a training process in a given curricular component, about the articulation between experimental activities and DICT in Chemistry Teaching that can be characterized as constituents of a real effective and of a maximum possible consciousness, in order to identify possible learning. As a source of qualitative information, a portfolio produced by the undergraduates during the curricular component is constituted. This portfolio was submitted to the Discursive Textual Analysis procedures. The analyses, based on the progressive theoretical framework of the Brazilian educator Paulo Freire, pointed to different levels of awareness regarding the experimental activities linked to the DICT. For example, the undergraduates explained knowledge that questioned the use of DICT articulated with experimental activities as a way to unconditionally promote student learning. This was interpreted, to some extent, as a collaboration of the formative process adopted in a dialogical-problematizing approach.
Demonstration of the impacts of anti-sedimentation techniques on Japanese reservoir siltation via mass data ANN analysis
Authors: Landwehr Tobias , Kantoush Sameh Ahmed , Nohara Daisuke , Sumi Tetsuya , Pahl-Wostl Claudia
Published: February 2022

Reservoirs have been installed as long-term assets to guarantee water and energy security for decades, if not centuries. However, the effect of siltation undermines reservoirs' sustainability because it significantly reduces the reservoirs' original capacity. Extreme events such as typhoons, floods and droughts are posited to have extreme impacts on sediment inflow and deposition in reservoirs. The same holds true for ISMTs (implemented sediment management technologies), such as dredging, spilling and bypassing. However, the large-scale analysis of their effects on reservoir sedimentation progression, recovery and development was not feasible due to data scarcity and technological restrictions. The present paper closes this information gap by conducting a GRU (gated recurrent unit) neural network analysis of 1,224 Japanese reservoirs, for which the sedimentation, local precipitation, extreme events and ISMTs were monitored between 2000 and 2017. The network reveals the beneficial impacts of dredging, spilling and bypassing. The results also demonstrate the potential of smart management and improved monitoring for sedimentation threat abatement. Thus, foresighted engineering and dedicated governance action in flood and drought scenarios can significantly strengthen the sustainable behavior of key infrastructure elements such as reservoirs.
The effect of triangular prismatic elements on the hydraulic performance of stepped spillways in the skimming flow regime: an experimental study and numerical modeling
Authors: Roushangar Kiyoumars , Akhgar Samira , Shahnazi Saman
Published: February 2022

The stepped spillway is a cost-effective hydraulic structure to dissipate the energy of large water flow over the spillway of a dam. In this study, the focus was placed on the effects of triangular prismatic elements (TPEs) on the hydraulic performance of a stepped spillway. Nine stepped spillway models were experimentally and numerically investigated with different shapes and layouts of TPEs. To adopt a proper turbulent model, RNG k-ε and standard k-ε models were utilized. The computational model results satisfactorily simulated the complex flow over the stepped spillway of experiment cases, including velocity distributions and pressure profiles on the step surfaces. The results indicated that the installation of TPEs on stepped spillways can be an effective way to reduce cavitation effects. Installing TPEs on stepped spillways increased the energy dissipation rate up to 54%. The performance of stepped spillways was improved when TPEs were spaced more closely together. Furthermore, the relationships between the roughness coefficient (f) and the ratio of the critical depth to the step roughness (yc/k) were obtained with high accuracy using the experimental data.
Novel design of amine and metal hydroxide functional group modified onto sludge biochar for arsenic removal
Authors: Chen Chih-Kuei , Nguyen Nhat-Thien , Le Thuy-Trang , Duong Cong-Chinh , Nguyen Cong-Nguyen , Truong Duc-Toan , Liao Chun-Hsing
Published: February 2022

This study involved novel-designed sludge biochar (SB) adsorbed for arsenic removal with lower operating costs and higher adsorption efficiency properties. Generally, biochar only relies on micropores for pollutant adsorption, but physical adsorption is not highly efficient for arsenic removal. Therefore, in order to improve the removal efficiency of arsenic by SB, diethylenetriamine (DETA) and FeCl3 were used in this study to modify the surface of SB by an immersion method. The objectives of this research are to obtain optimum operation conditions by assessing the effect of different Fe content, pH and initial concentration on adsorbing arsenic. This study is the first to use Density Functional Theory (DFT) to simulate and verify the adsorption mechanism of arsenic by SB. Results showed the presence of amine/iron oxyhydroxides functional groups greatly promoted SB surface activity and its arsenic adsorption potential. The surface area, pore volume and pore size of the SB were estimated to be 525 m2 g−1, 0.35 cm3 g−1 and 8.71 nm, respectively. The DFT model result is the same as the result of arsenic adsorption performance with high adsorption energy (−246.3 kJmol−1) and shorter bond distances (1.42 Å), indicating strong chemical adsorption between arsenic and material. The reaction mechanism is divided into four pathways, including oxidation-reduction, complexation, electrostatic adsorption and pore adsorption.
Life cycle assessment of paper mill wastewater: a case study in Viet Nam
Authors: Bui Hiep Nghia , Chen Yi-Ching , Pham Anh Thi , Ng Si Ling , Lin Kun-Yi Andrew , Nguyen Ngan Quang Viet , Bui Ha Manh
Published: February 2022

Although in a critical position in the economy, the paper industry releases a lot of wastewater that requires adequate treatment for sustainable development. This study presents an application of Life cycle assessment (LCA) with the ReCiPe tool on the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) of a paper factory in Vietnam to evaluate the environmental effect of the individual techniques in WWTP, especially the internal circulation (IC) reactor, a pioneer and practical anaerobic technology. Both Midpoint and Endpoint categories results demonstrated that chemical use and electricity consumption mainly contributed to the environmental impact in the WWTP. The Dissolved air flotation (DAF) and Moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) are classified as effective techniques to reduce the impacts on the environment. Moreover, the comparison of LCA between IC and up-flow anaerobic sludge bed (UASB) shows that IC is the better practically green technique for the environment.
Evaluation of Mechanical Properties and Antibacterial Activity of Nano Titania-Enriched Alkasite Restorative Material: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Aref Neven S. , Abdallah Reham M.
Published: February 2022

Background:

A biocompatible additive with the ability to establish antibacterial action for restorative materials without sacrificing their physical properties is always in demand. Nano titania (TiO2 nanoparticles) was shown to have antimicrobial action against a wide range of microorganisms. Alkasite is a modern esthetic restorative material that has outstanding properties; however, it is deficient in antibacterial activity.

Objective:

TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) were included in alkasite, and both mechanical properties and antibacterial activity of the new formulations were assessed.

Materials and Methods:

Nano titania powder was coupled to alkasite powder in proportions of 3 and 5% (w/w). There were 105 specimens made in total. Evaluation parameters were compressive strength, surface microhardness, surface roughness, water sorption and solubility, and antibacterial activity. One and two-way ANOVA were used for the statistical analysis, followed by Tukey′s test (p<0.05).

Results:

Both ratios of nano titania, 3 and 5% (w/w), significantly increased compressive strength, antibacterial activity against different pathogens, and decreased water solubility of alkasite (p<0.05). Only 5% (w/w) nano titania-modified alkasite exhibited significant decrease in water sorption (p<0.05). Conversely, an insignificant increase in microhardness and surface roughness was observed with both ratios, 3 and 5% (w/w) of nano titania (p˃0.05).

Conclusion:

Nano titania seems to be a very promising complementary additive to the alkasite restorative material, capable of generating considerable antibacterial effectiveness while also enhancing certain mechanical properties.
Real-World Safety and Efficacy of Glycopyrronium Bromide in Japanese Patients with COPD: A 52-Week Post-Marketing Surveillance
Authors: Kato Chihiro , Wang Dong , Nakamura Noriko , Sasajima Takayoshi , Yoshisue Hajime
Published: February 2022

Objective:

To evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of glycopyrronium (GLY) in patients with COPD in a real-world setting in Japan.

Methods:

This 52-week, multicentre, post-marketing surveillance conducted in Japan, between February 2013 and August 2019, included patients using GLY for the first time for the relief of airway obstructive disorder-related symptoms. Safety outcomes included incidence of adverse events (AEs), serious AEs (SAEs), adverse drug reactions (ADRs), serious ADRs (SADRs) and priority variables included cardiovascular/cerebrovascular (CCV) AEs and anticholinergic AEs during the 52-week period. Safety outcomes were also assessed in elderly patients. Efficacy outcomes included physician’s global assessment, COPD assessment test (CAT) and lung function test.

Results and Discussion:

Of the 1,331 patients registered for this surveillance, safety and efficacy outcomes were evaluated in 1,277 patients. In the safety analysis population, the incidence of AEs was 15.51%, SAEs 4.70%, ADRs 5.01% and SADRs 0.31%. The CCV AEs and anticholinergic AEs were reported by 0.70% and 2.58% patients, respectively. Physician’s global assessment showed that the overall response rate at the last assessment was 70%. The mean (95% CI) CAT scores decreased from the start of treatment to Week 52 with GLY, (−6.2 [−7.0 to −5.4]). Lung function in terms of trough FEV1 and FVC improved over time from the start of GLY to Week 52.

Conclusion:

GLY demonstrated an acceptable long-term safety profile with no new safety concerns in a real-life setting. It demonstrated improvement in lung function and symptom control in Japanese COPD patients.
Dermoscopic Findings in Cases of Cutaneous Metastases
Authors: Raika Alise E. , Sidhoma Elga , Hasnere Sigita
Published: February 2022

Background:

Cutaneous metastases are cancerous cells in the dermis and hypodermis and can develop from every type of malignancy. The involvement of the skin in the metastatic process is considered to be quite rare and carries a poor prognosis, but it is of great importance in the management, treatment and self-esteem of the patient.

Objective:

The objective of this paper is to collect research data on clinical signs of cutaneous metastases and the use of dermoscopy in their diagnostic process.

Results:

Cutaneous metastases present with different clinical variants and dermoscopic findings, the most common being non-painful skin-colored nodules with various vascular structures seen in dermoscopy. There are not many reports on the dermoscopic findings of cutaneous metastases.

Conclusion:

Cutaneous metastases remain a rare diagnosis but are of great clinical importance. As the use of dermoscopy rises yearly, a better understanding of the dermoscopic features in cutaneous metastases should be obtained and reported.
effect of competence and self-leadership on the organizational commitment of assessors of P1 professional certification institutions (LSP-P1) in Indonesia
Authors: Susanti Nurul Indah , Brahmasari Ida Aju , Suryani Tatik
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effect of competence and self-leadership on the organizational commitment of Assessors of P1 Professional Certification Institutions (LSP-P1) in Indonesia. The object of this research is the P1 Professional Certification Institute (LSP-P1) in Universities and Vocational Schools in Indonesia with a population of 26,021 P1 assessors in Indonesia obtained from the 2019 BNSP report, while the sample taken is 393.94 rounded up to 400 assessors calculated with Slovin's formula. Data was collected using a survey method with a questionnaire instrument, while the analysis technique used was Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) through Amos. The results showed that competence had a significant effect on organizational commitment and self-leadership had a significant effect on organizational commitment. Based on the results of the analysis and discussion in this study, suggestions for LSP-P1 should still pay attention to several things such as technical competence can increase the assessor's organizational commitment and LSP must also support the creation of self-leadership of assessors so that they have high commitment.
Therapist-Assisted Web-Based Intervention for Prolonged Grief Disorder After Cancer Bereavement: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kaiser Julia , Nagl Michaela , Hoffmann Rahel , Linde Katja , Kersting Anette
Published: February 2022

Background

Bereavement due to cancer increases the risk of prolonged grief disorder. However, specialized treatment options for prolonged grief after a loss due to illness are still scarce.

Objective

The aim of this study is to extend previous findings by evaluating a web-based cognitive behavioral intervention with asynchronous therapist support, consisting of structured writing tasks adapted specifically for prolonged grief after cancer bereavement.

Methods

The intervention was evaluated in a purely web-based randomized waitlist-controlled trial. Open-access recruitment of participants was conducted on the web. Prolonged grief (Inventory of Complicated Grief), depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, posttraumatic growth, somatization, sleep quality, and mental and physical health were assessed on the web via validated self-report measures.

Results

A total of 87 participants were randomized into the intervention group (IG; 44/87, 51%) or the waitlist control group (43/87, 49%). Of the participants, 7% (6/87) dropped out of the study (5/44, 11%, in the IG). Of the 39 completers in the IG, 37 (95%) completed all intervention tasks. The intervention reduced symptoms of prolonged grief (intention-to-treat: P<.001; η2=0.34; Cohen d=0.80) to a clinically significant extent. It had favorable effects on depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress, posttraumatic growth, and overall mental health but not on somatization, sleep quality, or physical health.

Conclusions

The web-based intervention for prolonged grief after cancer bereavement is effective in reducing symptoms of prolonged grief disorder and accompanying syndromes in a timely, easily realizable manner and addresses specific challenges of bereavement to illness. Considering web-based approaches in future mental health care policy and practice can reduce health care gaps for those who are bereaved to cancer.

Trial Registration

German Clinical Trial Register U1111–1186-6255; https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00011001
Common Dermatologic Disorders in Down Syndrome: Systematic Review
Authors: Lam Megan , Lu Justin Di , Elhadad Levi , Sibbald Cathryn , Alhusayen Raed
Published: February 2022

Background

Down syndrome (DS) has been associated with cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and immune-related abnormalities. Several dermatologic conditions, including hidradenitis suppurativa, have also been found to be associated with DS.

Objective

The objective of this study was to characterize the prevalence, presentation, and unique features of dermatologic disorders associated with DS.

Methods

Electronic searches of EMBASE (via Ovid), MEDLINE (via Ovid), and Web of Science databases were conducted on December 14, 2020. Observational studies including case reports of patients with DS presenting with concomitant primary dermatologic disorder were included.

Results

This systematic review captured 40 observational studies and 99 case reports, including 10 observational studies that examined the prevalence of common skin disorders in patients with DS. The most common dermatologic conditions reported includes atopic dermatitis (8 studies, n=180; 19.7% mean prevalence), hidradenitis suppurativa (15, n=478; 3.2%), ichthyosis (4, n=16; 4.7%), lichen nitidus (6, n=6; 1.1%), psoriasis (21, n=65; 4.8%), alopecia areata (27, n=253; 7.4%), vitiligo (8, n=40; 4.4%), onychomycosis (3, n=198; 24.7%), calcinosis cutis (14, n=15), connective tissue nevi (6, n=6), dermatofibroma (3, n=3), melanoma (3, n=3), syringomas (14, n=182; 21.2%), and elastosis perforans serpiginosa (19, n=24; 0.5%).

Conclusions

Our results indicate an increased prevalence of common cutaneous disorders in patients with DS, particularly infectious, inflammatory, autoimmune, and connective tissue conditions. Current guidelines for the screening, general management, and use of systemic immunomodulatory agents in this patient population are lacking. Patients with DS would benefit from screening for dermatologic disorders not otherwise regularly performed for earlier diagnosis and treatment.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews CRD42021226295; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/display_record.php?RecordID=226295
Mobile Phone Apps for Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Prevention and Response: Systematic Search on App Stores (Preprint)
Authors: Draughon Moret Jessica , Todd Angela , Rose Lauren , Pollitt Erin , Anderson Jocelyn
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Since the 2008 advent of the smartphone, more than 180 billion copies of apps have been downloaded from Apple App Store, with more than 2.6 million apps available for Android and 2.2 million apps available for iOS. Many violence prevention and response apps have been developed as part of this app proliferation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the prevalence and quality of freely available mobile phone apps targeting intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual violence (SV) prevention and response.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of violence prevention and response mobile phone apps freely available in Apple App Store (iOS; March 2016) and Google Play Store (Android; July 2016). Search terms included violence prevention, sexual assault, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, sexual violence, forensic nursing, wife abuse, and rape. Apps were included for review if they were freely available, were available in English, and had a primary purpose of prevention of or response to SV or IPV regardless of app target end users.

RESULTS

Using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS), we evaluated a total of 132 unique apps. The majority of included apps had a primary purpose of sharing information or resources. Included apps were of low-to-moderate quality, with the overall subjective quality mean for the reviewed apps being 2.65 (95% CI 2.58-2.72). Quality scores for each of the 5 MARS categories ranged from 2.80 (engagement) to 4.75 (functionality). An incidental but important finding of our review was the difficulty in searching for apps and the plethora of nonrelated apps that appear when searching for keywords such as “rape” and “domestic violence” that may be harmful to people seeking help.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there are a variety of mobile apps available designed to provide information or other services related to SV and IPV, they range greatly in quality. They are also challenging to find, given the current infrastructure of app store searches, keyword prioritization, and highlighting based on user rating. It is important for providers to be aware of these resources and be knowledgeable about how to review and recommend mobile phone apps to patients, when appropriate.
Defining the Enablers and Barriers to the Implementation of Large-scale, Health Care–Related Mobile Technology: Qualitative Case Study in a Tertiary Hospital Setting (Preprint)
Authors: Aggarwal Ravi , Visram Sheena , Martin Guy , Sounderajah Viknesh , Gautama Sanjay , Jarrold Kevin , Klaber Robert , Maxwell Shona , Neal John , Pegg Jack , Redhead Julian , King Dominic , Ashrafian Hutan , Darzi Ara
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

The successful implementation of clinical smartphone apps in hospital settings requires close collaboration with industry partners. A large-scale, hospital-wide implementation of a clinical mobile app for health care professionals developed in partnership with Google Health and academic partners was deployed on a bring-your-own-device basis using mobile device management at our UK academic hospital. As this was the first large-scale implementation of this type of innovation in the UK health system, important insights and lessons learned from the deployment may be useful to other organizations considering implementing similar technology in partnership with commercial companies.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study are to define the key enablers and barriers and to propose a road map for the implementation of a hospital-wide clinical mobile app developed in collaboration with an industry partner as a data processor and an academic partner for independent evaluation.

METHODS

Semistructured interviews were conducted with high-level stakeholders from industry, academia, and health care providers who had instrumental roles in the implementation of the app at our hospital. The interviews explored the participants’ views on the enablers and barriers to the implementation process. The interviews were analyzed using a broadly deductive approach to thematic analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 14 participants were interviewed. Key enablers identified were the establishment of a steering committee with high-level clinical involvement, well-defined roles and responsibilities between partners, effective communication strategies with end users, safe information governance precautions, and increased patient engagement and transparency. Barriers identified were the lack of dedicated resources for mobile change at our hospital, risk aversion, unclear strategy and regulation, and the implications of bring-your-own-device and mobile device management policies. The key lessons learned from the deployment process were highlighted, and a road map for the implementation of large-scale clinical mobile apps in hospital settings was proposed.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite partnering with one of the world’s biggest technology companies, the cultural and technological change required for mobile working and implementation in health care was found to be a significant challenge. With an increasing requirement for health care organizations to partner with industry for advanced mobile technologies, the lessons learned from our implementation can influence how other health care organizations undertake a similar mobile change and improve the chances of successful widespread mobile transformation.
COVID-19 Vaccine Tweets After Vaccine Rollout: Sentiment–Based Topic Modeling (Preprint)
Authors: Huangfu Luwen , Mo Yiwen , Zhang Peijie , Zeng Daniel Dajun , He Saike
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

COVID-19 vaccines are one of the most effective preventive strategies for containing the pandemic. Having a better understanding of the public’s conceptions of COVID-19 vaccines may aid in the effort to promptly and thoroughly vaccinate the community. However, because no empirical research has yet fully explored the public’s vaccine awareness through sentiment–based topic modeling, little is known about the evolution of public attitude since the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we specifically focused on tweets about COVID-19 vaccines (Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Johnson & Johnson) after vaccines became publicly available. We aimed to explore the overall sentiments and topics of tweets about COVID-19 vaccines, as well as how such sentiments and main concerns evolved.

METHODS

We collected 1,122,139 tweets related to COVID-19 vaccines from December 14, 2020, to April 30, 2021, using Twitter’s application programming interface. We removed retweets and duplicate tweets to avoid data redundancy, which resulted in 857,128 tweets. We then applied sentiment–based topic modeling by using the compound score to determine sentiment polarity and the coherence score to determine the optimal topic number for different sentiment polarity categories. Finally, we calculated the topic distribution to illustrate the topic evolution of main concerns.

RESULTS

Overall, 398,661 (46.51%) were positive, 204,084 (23.81%) were negative, 245,976 (28.70%) were neutral, 6899 (0.80%) were highly positive, and 1508 (0.18%) were highly negative sentiments. The main topics of positive and highly positive tweets were planning for getting vaccination (251,979/405,560, 62.13%), getting vaccination (76,029/405,560, 18.75%), and vaccine information and knowledge (21,127/405,560, 5.21%). The main concerns in negative and highly negative tweets were vaccine hesitancy (115,206/205,592, 56.04%), extreme side effects of the vaccines (19,690/205,592, 9.58%), and vaccine supply and rollout (17,154/205,592, 8.34%). During the study period, negative sentiment trends were stable, while positive sentiments could be easily influenced. Topic heatmap visualization demonstrated how main concerns changed during the current widespread vaccination campaign.

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate public COVID-19 vaccine awareness and awareness trends on social media with automated sentiment–based topic modeling after vaccine rollout. Our results can help policymakers and research communities track public attitudes toward COVID-19 vaccines and help them make decisions to promote the vaccination campaign.
Blood Pressure Monitoring as a Digital Health Tool for Improving Diabetes Clinical Outcomes: Retrospective Real-world Study (Preprint)
Authors: Fundoiano-Hershcovitz ‪Yifat , Bacher Dror , Ritholz Marilyn D , Horwitz David L , Manejwala Omar , Goldstein Pavel
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

Remote data capture for blood glucose (BG) or blood pressure (BP) monitoring and the use of a supportive digital app are becoming the model in diabetes and hypertension chronic care. One of the goals in chronic condition management is to increase awareness and generate behavioral change in order to improve outcomes in diabetes and related comorbidities, such as hypertension. In addition, there is a lack of understanding of the association between BG and BP levels when using digital health tools.

OBJECTIVE

By applying a rigorous study framework to digital health data, this study investigated the relationship between BP monitoring and BG and BP levels, as well as a lagged association between BP and BG. We hypothesized that during the first 6 months of BP monitoring, BG and BP levels would decrease. Finally, we suggested a positive association between BP levels and the following month’s BG levels.

METHODS

In this retrospective, real-world case-control study, we extracted the data of 269 people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) who tracked their BG levels using the Dario digital platform for a chronic condition. We analyzed the digital data of the users who, in addition to BG, monitored their BP using the same app (BP-monitoring [BPM] group, n=137) 6 months before and after starting their BP monitoring. Propensity score matching established a control group, no blood pressure monitoring (NBPM, n=132), matched on demographic and baseline clinical measures to the BPM group. A piecewise mixed model was used for analyzing the time trajectories of BG, BP, and their lagged association.

RESULTS

Analysis revealed a significant difference in BG time trajectories associated with BP monitoring in BPM and NBPM groups (t=–2.12, P=.03). The BPM group demonstrated BG reduction improvement in the monthly average BG levels during the first 6 months (t=–3.57, P<.001), while BG did not change for the NBPM group (t=0.39, P=.70). Both groups showed similarly stable BG time trajectories (B=0.98, t=1.16, P=.25) before starting the use of the BP-monitoring system. In addition, the BPM group showed a significant reduction in systolic (t=–6.42, P<.001) and diastolic (t=–4.80, P<.001) BP during the first 6 months of BP monitoring. Finally, BG levels were positively associated with systolic (B=0.24, t=2.77, P=.001) and diastolic (B=0.30, t=2.41, P=.02) BP.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study shed light on the association between BG and BP levels and on the role of BP self-monitoring in diabetes management. Our findings also underscore the need and provide a basis for a comprehensive approach to understanding the mechanism of BP regulation associated with BG.