bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Variability in Microbial Quality of Western US Agricultural Water Supplies: A Multistate Study
Authors: Partyka Melissa L. , Bond Ronald F. , Chase Jennifer A. , Atwill Edward R.
Published: July 2018

In 2011, the US Congress passed the Food Safety Modernization Act, which tasks the US Food and Drug Administration to establish microbiological standards for agricultural water. However, little data are available for the microbiological quality of surface water irrigation supplies. During the 2015 irrigation season, we conducted a baseline study on the microbial water quality of large irrigation districts in California (n = 2) and Washington (n = 4). Monthly samples (n = 517) were analyzed for bacterial indicators (fecal coliforms, enterococci, and Escherichia coli) and pathogens (Salmonella spp., E. coli O157, and non‐O157 Shiga toxin‐producing E. coli [STEC]). Although there was a high degree of variability (μ ± SD = 59.13 ± 106.0), only 11% of samples (56/517) exceeded 126 colony‐forming units (CFU) 100 mL−1, and only six samples exceeded 410 CFU 100 mL−1. Two volumes of water were collected for pathogen analysis (1 L and 10 L); prevalence of Salmonella in 10‐L samples (68/149) was nearly double of that found in 1‐L samples (132/517). We found STEC during ∼9% of sampling events (58/517); serotypes O26 and O45 were the most common at 31 and 26%, respectively. Pathogens were not associated with exceedance of the regulatory threshold, yet the odds of detecting Salmonella increased approximately threefold (odds ration [O.R.] = 3.14, p < 0.0001) for every log increase in turbidity. Microbiological outcomes were highly district‐specific, suggesting drivers of water quality vary across spatiotemporal scales. The true risk of contamination of produce from irrigation water supplies remains unknown, along with the optimal monitoring strategy to improve food safety.

Core Ideas

Western US irrigation water supplies rarely exceed FDA agricultural water standards.

Indicator bacteria are not predictive of pathogen prevalence or concentration.

Prevalence of pathogens in irrigation water is higher than previously reported.

Odds of detecting Salmonella improved >270% with an increase in sample volume.

More research is needed to provide science‐based guidance to the produce industry.
Transferability of Vis‐NIR models for Soil Organic Carbon Estimation between Two Study Areas by using Spiking
Authors: Hong Yongsheng , Chen Yiyun , Zhang Yong , Liu Yanfang , Liu Yaolin , Yu Lei , Liu Yi , Cheng Hang
Published: July 2018

Core Ideas

Vis‐NIR spectroscopy was applied to estimate soil organic carbon in two different study areas.

Model developed in one study area couldn't be transferred in the other area.

We used spiking strategy to adapt the calibration models to target area characteristics.

|s2–σ2| could be used to identify the optimal spiking samples to improve model transferability.

Visible and near infrared (Vis‐NIR) spectroscopy technique has been shown to be a cost‐effective alternative for rapidly analyzing soil organic carbon (SOC). However, great challenges remain when applying a Vis‐NIR model for SOC estimation developed in one study area to other study areas without further calibration. The scope of this study was to use spiking strategy to improve the transferability of Vis‐NIR models between two study areas. Specifically, we explored the optimal spiking subset by adding different quantities of spiking samples to construct different‐sized models, and the strategy of spiking with extra‐weighting was used for comparison. Soil data was acquired in two independent study areas (WH area and HH area) in Hubei Province, Central China. The reflectance spectra and SOC contents were measured in the laboratory. Partial least squares regression (PLSR) was used for model calibration. The representativeness of the spiking samples was assessed through the absolute difference between the selected sample variance (s2) and the original variance (σ2) in the principal component space derived from soil spectra. Results showed that the initial models yielded successful SOC predictions for the soil samples from the same area as the calibration samples, but failed in those samples from the other area. Spiking improved the model transferability between these two study areas. Approximately 33%/48% of the HH/WH calibration set was required as spiking samples in model calibrations and applications in the other area. Spiking with extra‐weighting was of limited use in small‐sized spectral libraries. The use of |s2–σ2| is potentially effective in identifying the optimal spiking samples to improve model transferability between different small‐sized study areas in the Vis‐NIR assessments of SOC.
Conjugates of Classical DNA/RNA Binder with Nucleobase: Chemical, Biochemical and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Saftić Dijana , Ban Željka , Matić Josipa , Tumirv Lidija-Marija , Piantanida Ivo
Published: July 2018

:

Among the most intensively studied classes of small molecules (molecular weight
< 650) in biomedical research are small molecules that non-covalently bind to DNA/RNA,
and another intensively studied class is nucleobase derivatives. Both classes have been intensively
elaborated in many books and reviews. However, conjugates consisting of DNA/RNA
binder covalently linked to nucleobase are much less studied and have not been reviewed in
the last two decades. Therefore, this review summarized reports on the design of classical
DNA/RNA binder – nucleobase conjugates, as well as data about their interactions with various
DNA or RNA targets, and even in some cases protein targets are involved. According to
these data, the most important structural aspects of selective or even specific recognition between
small molecule and target are proposed, and where possible related biochemical and
biomedical aspects were discussed. The general conclusion is that this, rather new class of
molecules showed an amazing set of recognition tools for numerous DNA or RNA targets in
the last two decades, as well as few intriguing in vitro and in vivo selectivities. Several lead
research lines show promising advancements toward either novel, highly selective markers or
bioactive, potentially druggable molecules.
Genetically Engineered Elastin-based Biomaterials for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Santos Mercedes , Serrano-Dúcar Sofía , González-Valdivieso Juan , Vallejo Reinaldo , Girotti Alessandra , Cuadrado Purificación , Arias Francisco Javier
Published: July 2018

:

Protein-based polymers are some of the most promising candidates for a new generation
of innovative biomaterials as recent advances in genetic-engineering and biotechnological
techniques mean that protein-based biomaterials can be designed and constructed with
a higher degree of complexity and accuracy. Moreover, their sequences, which are derived
from structural protein-based modules, can easily be modified to include bioactive motifs that
improve their functions and material-host interactions, thereby satisfying fundamental biological
requirements.

:

The accuracy with which these advanced polypeptides can be produced, and their versatility,
self-assembly behavior, stimuli-responsiveness and biocompatibility, means that they have
attracted increasing attention for use in biomedical applications such as cell culture, tissue engineering,
protein purification, surface engineering and controlled drug delivery.

:

The biopolymers discussed in this review are elastin-derived protein-based polymers which
are biologically inspired and biomimetic materials. This review will also focus on the design,
synthesis and characterization of these genetically encoded polymers and their potential utility
for controlled drug and gene delivery, as well as in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Inhibitors of Serine/Threonine Protein Phosphatases: Biochemical and Structural Studies Provide Insight for Further Development
Authors: Swingle Mark R. , Honkanen Richard E.
Published: July 2018

Background:

The reversible phosphorylation of proteins regulates many key functions in eukaryotic cells. Phosphorylation is catalyzed by protein kinases, with the majority of phosphorylation occurring on side chains of serine and threonine residues. The phosphomonoesters generated by protein kinases are hydrolyzed by protein phosphatases. In the absence of a phosphatase, the half-time for the hydrolysis of alkyl phosphate dianions at 25º C is over 1 trillion years; knon ~2 x 10-20 sec-1. Therefore, ser/thr phosphatases are critical for processes controlled by reversible phosphorylation.

Methods:

This review is based on the literature searched in available databases. We compare the catalytic mechanism of PPP-family phosphatases (PPPases) and the interactions of inhibitors that target these enzymes.

Results:

PPPases are metal-dependent hydrolases that enhance the rate of hydrolysis ([kcat/kM]/knon ) by a factor of ~1021, placing them among the most powerful known catalysts on earth. Biochemical and structural studies indicate that the remarkable catalytic proficiencies of PPPases are achieved by 10 conserved amino acids, DXH(X)~26DXXDR(X)~20- 26NH(X)~50H(X)~25-45R(X)~30-40H. Six act as metal-coordinating residues. Four position and orient the substrate phosphate. Together, two metal ions and the 10 catalytic residues position the phosphoryl group and an activated bridging water/hydroxide nucleophile for an inline attack upon the substrate phosphorous atom. The PPPases are conserved among species, and many structurally diverse natural toxins co-evolved to target these enzymes.

Conclusion:

Although the catalytic site is conserved, opportunities for the development of selective inhibitors of this important group of metalloenzymes exist.
Should all Hypertensive Patients be Screened for Primary Aldosteronism?
Authors: Alkagiet Stelina , Tziomalos Konstantinos
Published: July 2018

Primary aldosteronism (PA) is not only a leading cause of secondary and resistant hypertension,
but is also quite frequent in unselected hypertensive patients. Moreover, PA is associated
with increased cardiovascular risk, which is disproportionate to BP levels. In addition, timely diagnosis
of PA and prompt initiation of treatment attenuate this increased risk. On the other hand, there
are limited data regarding the usefulness of screening for PA in all asymptomatic or normokalemic
hypertensive patients. More importantly, until now, no well-organized, large-scale, prospective,
randomized controlled trial has proved the effectiveness of screening for PA for improving clinical
outcome. Accordingly, until more relevant data are available, screening for PA should be considered
in hypertensive patients with spontaneous or diuretic-induced hypokalemia as well as in those
with resistant hypertension. However, screening for PA in all hypertensive patients cannot be currently
recommended.
Pharmacological Treatment of Hypertension: Effects in Endothelial Function
Authors: Cobos-Segarra Leonardo , Lopez-Jaramillo Patricio , Ponte-Negretti CI Carlos , Villar Raul , Penaherrera Ernesto
Published: July 2018

The vascular endothelium plays an important role to maintain the functional integrity of
the cardiovascular system. The synthesis and secretion of substances with biological activity such
as prostacyclin and NO give endothelium the vasodilator, antithrombotic, and antiatherosclerotic
properties. Endothelial dysfunction participates in the genesis of HTA, but also hypertension
produces endothelial damage. The major class of antihypertensive drugs has beneficial effects in the
recuperation of the endothelial function, actions that are contributing to explain the impact of the
adequate control of HTA in the reduction of CV events.
In Silico Analyses for Key Genes and Molecular Genetic Mechanism in Epilepsy and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Jiang Xiao-wen , Lu Hong-yuan , Xu Ziru , Liu Tian-yi , Wu Qiong , Yang Yue , Zhao Qing-chun , Gao Hui-yuan
Published: July 2018

Background:

Epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease are common neuropathies with a complex
pathogenesis. Both of them have some correlations in etiology, pathogenesis, pathological changes,
clinical manifestations and treatment.

Objective:

This study investigated the key genes and molecular genetic mechanism in epilepsy and
Alzheimer’s disease by bioinformatics analysis.

Method:

Two gene expression profiles were used to screen differentially expressed genes by GEO2R
tool. The Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genome (KEGG) pathway enrichment
analysis was performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery
(DAVID). Then the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed by Search Tool
for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING) and Cytoscape software which can be used to analyze
modules with MCODE.

Results:

A total of 199 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the two groups. According to GO_BP
analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment by DAVID, we found DEGs referring to several pathways
significantly down-regulated in endocytosis, such as endocytosis, synaptic vesicle cycle, lysosome,
cAMP signaling pathway, circadian entrainment, LTP, glutamatergic synapse and GABAergic synapse
pathway. The regulator genes of the upstream pathway of circadian rhythms were obviously downgraded.

Conclusion:

Our research demonstrated that the regulatory genes of the upstream pathway of circadian
rhythms were obviously downgraded. These biological pathways and DEGs or hub genes may contribute
to revealing the molecular relationship between Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy.
Nanoparticle Based Treatment for Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Gupta Purnima , Garcia Evelyn , Sarkar Amrita , Kapoor Sumit , Rafiq Khadija , Chand Hitendra S. , Jayant Rahul Dev
Published: July 2018

Nanotechnology has gained increased attention for delivering therapeutic agents effectively to the cardiovascular system. Heart targeted nanocarrier based drug delivery is a new, effective and efficacious approach for treating various cardiac related disorders such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, and myocardial infarction. Nanocarrier based drug delivery system circumvents the problems associated with conventional drug delivery systems, including their nonspecificity, severe side effects and damage to the normal cells. Modification of physicochemical properties of nanocarriers such as size, shape and surface modifications can immensely alter its invivo pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic data and will provide better treatment strategy. Several nanocarriers such as lipid, phospholipid nanoparticles have been developed for delivering drugs to the target sites within the heart. This review summarizes and increases the understanding of the advanced nanosized drug delivery systems for treating cardiovascular disorders with the promising use of nanotechnology.
Sustainability metrics for assessing water resource recovery facilities of the future
Authors: Cornejo Pablo K. , Becker Jennifer , Pagilla Krishna , Mo Weiwei , Zhang Qiong , Mihelcic James R. , Chandran Kartik , Sturm Belinda , Yeh Daniel , Rosso Diego
Published: July 2018

The recovery of water, energy, and nutrients from water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) is needed to address significant global challenges, such as increasing water demand and decreasing availability of nonrenewable resources. To meet these challenges, innovative technological developments must lead to increased adoption of water and resource recovery processes, while addressing stakeholder needs (e.g., innovators, practitioners, regulators). A test bed network of over 90 partner facilities within the United States and abroad will help accelerate innovation and widespread adoption of novel processes through multiscale testing and demonstration of technologies. In this paper, we define a common set of environmental, economic, technical, and social performance metrics for innovative technologies, that will meet the needs of multiple stakeholders in the decision‐making process. These triple bottom line performance metrics can be used to track the sustainability of technologies in a consistent and transparent manner, while aiding the decision‐making process for WRRFs.

Practitioner points

The Facilities Accelerating Science and Technology (FAST) Water Network includes over 90 test bed facilities dedicated to accelerating innovation and adoption of water energy, and nutrient recovery systems.

A common set of environmental, economic, technical, and social performance metrics should be measured and reported when a new technology is evaluated in the FAST Water Network.

Performance metrics can aid sustainable decision‐making at WRRF, while meeting the needs of multiple stakeholders.
Development of a Model to Determine the Baseline Mass Transfer Coefficient in Bioreactors (Aeration Tanks)
Authors: Lee Johnny
Published: July 2018

Over 60 percent of all wastewater treatment plants in the developed countries use the activated sludge process as their secondary treatment system. About 50 to 85 percent of the total energy consumed in a biological wastewater treatment plant is in aeration. The activated sludge process, the most common such process, is performed in large aeration basins to provide air for microorganisms to remove nutrients and pollutants through biodegradation. Designs for the air supply often fail to meet sustained peak organic loading, which may lead to unsatisfactory treatment performance and even plant failure. On the other hand, excessive safety factors used in design for the air supply may similarly lead to unsatisfactory treatment performance and energy wastage. Improper sizing of the aeration system is primarily due to inability to estimate the mass transfer coefficient (KLa) correctly for different tank depths, leading to improper blower design and to inappropriate operation, among other things. In general, the efficiency of porous fine‐bubble diffuser systems varies from 10 to 30 percent or more, depending on tank depth. The term KLa is used in ASCE/EWRI Standard 2‐06 to define the apparent volumetric mass transfer coefficient in a non‐steady‐state clean water test in an aeration tank. This parameter is a function of tank depth, due to the variation of oxygen gas depletion with depth. The objective of this paper is to introduce a baseline oxygen mass transfer coefficient (KLa0), a hypothetical parameter defined as the oxygen transfer rate coefficient at zero depth, and to develop new models relating KLa to the baseline KLa0 as a function of temperature, system characteristics (e.g., the gas flow rate, the diffuser depth Zd), and oxygen solubility (Cs). Results of this study on data extracted from the literature indicate that a uniform value of KLa0 that is independent of tank depth can be obtained experimentally. Using the baseline, a family of rating curves for KLa20 (the standardized KLa at 20 °C) can thus be constructed for various gas flow rates applied to various tank depths. The new model relating KLa to the baseline KLa0 is an exponential function, and (KLa0)T is found to be inversely proportional to oxygen solubility in water (Cs)T to a high degree of correlation. Using a predetermined baseline KLa0, the new model predicts oxygen transfer coefficients KLa20 for any tank depth to within 1–3% error compared to observed measurements, and similarly for the standard oxygen transfer efficiency. The discovery of a standard baseline (KLa0)20 determined from shop tests is important for predicting the KLa20 value for any other aeration tank depth and gas flowrate, and this finding can be used in the development of energy optimization strategies for wastewater treatment plants. This work may also improve the accuracy of aeration models used for aeration system evaluations.
REVEALING URBAN MARKETPLACE IDENTITY: PUDU
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamad Asri , Wahab Mohammad Hussaini , Mohmad Shukri Sharyzee
Published: July 2018

The process of regenerating existing urban marketplaces should consider the components that make them special, as not to lose the delicate characters that give each marketplace distinctive identity and sense of place. This study focuses on identifying and evaluating urban marketplace by reviewing the definitions and concept of physical characters, and the experiential qualities of urban marketplace in Kuala Lumpur that contribute to the identity of a place. This study discovered that the marketplace physical surrounding and the activities that are happening are two of the elements which are associated with the place’s identity. This study concludes that urban marketplace physical and experiential quality can be regenerated to reveal an identity with strong sense of place.
A Locally Developed Electronic Health Platform in Uganda: Development and Implementation of Stre@mline
Authors: Liang Li , Wiens Matthew O , Lubega Phaisal , Spillman Ian , Mugisha Samuel
Published: July 2018

Background

Electronic health records (EHRs) are especially important in low-resource settings due to their potential to address unique challenges such as a high number of patients requiring long-term treatments who are lost to follow-up, the frequent shortages of essential drugs, poor maintenance and storage of records, and inefficient clinical triaging. However, there is a lack of affordable and practical EHR solutions. Stre@mline is an EHR platform that has been locally developed by Ugandan clinicians and engineers in Southwestern Uganda. It is tailored to the specific context and needs of low-resource hospitals. It operates without internet access, incorporates locally relevant standards and key patient safety features, has a medication inventory management component, has local technical support available, and is economically sustainable without funding from international donors. Stre@mline is currently used by over 60,000 patients at 2 hospitals, with plans to expand across Uganda.

Objective

The purpose of this article is to describe the key opportunities and challenges in EHR development in sub-Saharan Africa and to summarize the development and implementation of a “Made-for-Africa” EHR, Stre@mline, and how it has led to improved care for over 60,000 vulnerable patients in a rural region of Southwestern Uganda.

Methods

A quantitative user survey consisting of a set of 33 questions on usability and performance was conducted at Kisiizi Hospital. Users responded to each question through a Likert scale with the values of strongly disagree, disagree, agree, and strongly agree. Through purposive sampling, 30 users were identified and 28 users completed the survey.

Results

We found that users were generally very satisfied with the ease of use of Stre@mline, with 96% (27/28) finding it easy to learn and 100% (28/28) finding it easy to use. Users found that Stre@mline was helpful in improving both clinical efficiency and enhancing patient care.

Conclusions

The partnership of local clinicians and developers is crucial to the design and adoption of user-centered technologies tailored to the specific needs of low-resource settings. The EHR described here could serve as a model for the development of future technologies suitable for developing countries.
Health Benefits and Cost-Effectiveness From Promoting Smartphone Apps for Weight Loss: Multistate Life Table Modeling (Preprint)
Authors: Cleghorn Christine , Wilson Nick , Nair Nisha , Kvizhinadze Giorgi , Nghiem Nhung , McLeod Melissa , Blakely Tony
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Obesity is an important risk factor for many chronic diseases. Mobile health interventions such as smartphone apps can potentially provide a convenient low-cost addition to other obesity reduction strategies.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to estimate the impacts on quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) gained and health system costs over the remainder of the life span of the New Zealand population (N=4.4 million) for a smartphone app promotion intervention in 1 calendar year (2011) using currently available apps for weight loss.

METHODS

The intervention was a national mass media promotion of selected smartphone apps for weight loss compared with no dedicated promotion. A multistate life table model including 14 body mass index–related diseases was used to estimate QALYs gained and health systems costs. A lifetime horizon, 3% discount rate, and health system perspective were used. The proportion of the target population receiving the intervention (1.36%) was calculated using the best evidence for the proportion who have access to smartphones, are likely to see the mass media campaign promoting the app, are likely to download a weight loss app, and are likely to continue using this app.

RESULTS

In the base-case model, the smartphone app promotion intervention generated 29 QALYs (95% uncertainty interval, UI: 14-52) and cost the health system US $1.6 million (95% UI: 1.1-2.0 million) with the standard download rate. Under plausible assumptions, QALYs increased to 59 (95% UI: 27-107) and costs decreased to US $1.2 million (95% UI: 0.5-1.8) when standard download rates were doubled. Costs per QALY gained were US $53,600 for the standard download rate and US $20,100 when download rates were doubled. On the basis of a threshold of US $30,000 per QALY, this intervention was cost-effective for Māori when the standard download rates were increased by 50% and also for the total population when download rates were doubled.

CONCLUSIONS

In this modeling study, the mass media promotion of a smartphone app for weight loss produced relatively small health gains on a population level and was of borderline cost-effectiveness for the total population. Nevertheless, the scope for this type of intervention may expand with increasing smartphone use, more easy-to-use and effective apps becoming available, and with recommendations to use such apps being integrated into dietary counseling by health workers.
Mobile Apps for Controlling Heart Rate: A Review and Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: EVida Begoña , Salvador García Sr Javier , Góngora Alonso Susel , Garcia-Zapirain Begonya , Castillo Cristiàn , Herreros González Jesús , Hamrioui Sofiane , de la Torre Díez Isabel
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Information and communications technologies are transforming our social interactions and life-styles. One of the most promising applications of information technology is healthcare and wellness management that characterized by early detection of conditions, prevention, and long-term healthcare management.

OBJECTIVE

The main purpose of this document is to do a study, first about the actual literature about mobile phone applications to measure and control heart-rate and second a study about these applications themselves, analyzing the different app stores more popular nowadays, Google Play Store and iTunes (for Android and iOS devices respectively).

METHODS

The Web portals and databases that were used to perform the searches are IEEE Explorer, National Center for Biotechnology Information, Springer, ResearchGate, Science Direct and Scopus, taking into account the date of publication from 2010 to 2018, publications in English and Spanish.

RESULTS

40 relevant papers have been found related to mobile phone apps to measure and control the heart rate. The results show that of a total of 400 applications found 245 of them are in the Play Store (Android systems) and the remaining 155 were found in the iTunes Store (iOS systems).

CONCLUSIONS

From the review of the research articles analyzed, it can be said that the most applications found are for Android devices. They occupy 76.53% of the world mobile phone market, while iOS only owns 18.97%.
How New Technologies Can Improve Prediction, Assessment, and Intervention in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (e-OCD): Review (Preprint)
Authors: Ferreri Florian , Bourla Alexis , Peretti Charles-Siegfried , Segawa Tomoyuki , Jaafari Nemat , Mouchabac Stéphane
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

New technologies are set to profoundly change the way we understand and manage psychiatric disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Developments in imaging and biomarkers, along with medical informatics, may well allow for better assessments and interventions in the future. Recent advances in the concept of digital phenotype, which involves using computerized measurement tools to capture the characteristics of a given psychiatric disorder, is one paradigmatic example.

OBJECTIVE

The impact of new technologies on health professionals’ practice in OCD care remains to be determined. Recent developments could disrupt not just their clinical practices, but also their beliefs, ethics, and representations, even going so far as to question their professional culture. This study aimed to conduct an extensive review of new technologies in OCD.

METHODS

We conducted the review by looking for titles in the PubMed database up to December 2017 that contained the following terms: [Obsessive] AND [Smartphone] OR [phone] OR [Internet] OR [Device] OR [Wearable] OR [Mobile] OR [Machine learning] OR [Artificial] OR [Biofeedback] OR [Neurofeedback] OR [Momentary] OR [Computerized] OR [Heart rate variability] OR [actigraphy] OR [actimetry] OR [digital] OR [virtual reality] OR [Tele] OR [video].

RESULTS

We analyzed 364 articles, of which 62 were included. Our review was divided into 3 parts: prediction, assessment (including diagnosis, screening, and monitoring), and intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The review showed that the place of connected objects, machine learning, and remote monitoring has yet to be defined in OCD. Smartphone assessment apps and the Web Screening Questionnaire demonstrated good sensitivity and adequate specificity for detecting OCD symptoms when compared with a full-length structured clinical interview. The ecological momentary assessment procedure may also represent a worthy addition to the current suite of assessment tools. In the field of intervention, CBT supported by smartphone, internet, or computer may not be more effective than that delivered by a qualified practitioner, but it is easy to use, well accepted by patients, reproducible, and cost-effective. Finally, new technologies are enabling the development of new therapies, including biofeedback and virtual reality, which focus on the learning of coping skills. For them to be used, these tools must be properly explained and tailored to individual physician and patient profiles.
The MomConnect Nurses and Midwives Support Platform (NurseConnect): A Qualitative Process Evaluation (Preprint)
Authors: Fischer Alex Emilio , Sebidi Jane , Barron Peter , Lalla- Edward Samanta Tresha
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Over the past decade, mobile health has steadily increased in low-income and middle-income countries. However, few platforms have been able to sustainably scale up like the MomConnect program in South Africa. NurseConnect was created as a capacity building component of MomConnect, aimed at supporting nurses and midwives in maternal and child health. The National Department of Health has committed to expanding NurseConnect to all nurses across the country, and an evaluation of the current user experience was conducted to inform a successful scale up.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the perception and use of NurseConnect by nurses and midwives to produce feedback that can be used to optimize the user experience as the platform continues to scale up.

METHODS

We conducted focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with 110 nurses and midwives from 18 randomly selected health care facilities across South Africa. Questions focused on mobile phone use, access to medical information and their experience with NurseConnect registration, as well as the content and different platforms.

RESULTS

All participants had mobile phones and communication through calls and messaging was the main use in both personal and work settings. Of 110 participants, 108 (98.2%) had data-enabled phones, and the internet, Google, and apps (South African National Department of Health Guidelines, iTriage, Drugs.com) were commonly used, especially to find information in the work setting. Of 110 participants, 62 (56.4%) were registered NurseConnect users and liked the message content, especially listeriosis and motivational messages, which created behavioral change in some instances. The mobisite and helpdesk, however, were underutilized because of a lack of information surrounding these platforms. Some participants did not trust medical information from websites and had more confidence in apps, while others associated a “helpdesk” with a call-in service, not a messaging one. Many of the unregistered participants had not heard of NurseConnect, and some cited data and time constraints as barriers to both registration and uptake.

CONCLUSIONS

Mobile and smartphone penetration was very high, and participants often used their phone to find medical information. The NurseConnect messages were well-liked by all registered participants; however, the mobisite and helpdesk were underutilized owing to a lack of information and training around these platforms. Enhanced marketing and training initiatives that optimize existing social networks, as well as the provision of data and Wi-Fi, should be explored to ensure that registration improves, and that users are active across all platforms.
PatientConcept App � an innovative tool to improve therapy adherence and to implement risk management plans. (Preprint)
Authors: Lang Michael , Mayr Martin , Ringbauer Stefan , Cepek Lukas
Published: July 2018

UNSTRUCTURED

Background: Adherence constitutes a great challenge for disease management, particularly when treating chronically ill patients facing an extensive, complex and long-term therapy. Earlier studies emphasize the relevance of adherence for improving therapy benefits. Besides the positive impact of increased patient support, the use of mobile health applications has gained importance in disease management.
Objective: We aimed to develop a software application providing innovative features to simplify the contact between patients and treating physicians in order to overcome adherence barriers, to implement risk management plans and to collect patient reported outcome data.
Methods: A novel software application ensuring data security was developed. Various innovative modules have been implemented, enabling bidirectional communication between treating physicians and patients, supporting therapy monitoring and management and allowing the collection of large sets of anonymous patient data.
Results: The PatientConcept app is freely available for download and is tested since 2016, with more than 1800 generated patient IDs and 279 patients documenting health data according to risk management plans online in 2017. The impact on adherence issues is currently tested in larger patient populations.
Conclusion: This innovative app provides a feasible and cost-optimized possibility to intensify and simplify the communication between patients and their treating physicians across indications, thus promising an exceptional benefit to both. It may not only support chronically ill patients in managing their daily life and improving adherence, but can also facilitate the implementation of risk management plans through automated monitoring, thus supporting physicians in their daily routine. Furthermore, patient reported outcome data can be collected. Importantly, a secure ID-associated data management ensures patient anonymity complying with highest data safety standards.
Preliminary Effectiveness of a Smartphone App to Reduce Depressive Symptoms in the Workplace: Feasibility and Acceptability Study (Preprint)
Authors: Deady Mark , Johnston David , Milne David , Glozier Nick , Peters Dorian , Calvo Rafael , Harvey Samuel
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

The workplace represents a unique setting for mental health interventions. Due to range of job-related factors, employees in male-dominated industries are at an elevated risk. However, these at-risk groups are often overlooked. HeadGear is a smartphone app–based intervention designed to reduce depressive symptoms and increase well-being in these populations.

OBJECTIVE

This paper presents the development and pilot testing of the app’s usability, acceptability, feasibility, and preliminary effectiveness.

METHODS

The development process took place from January 2016 to August 2017. Participants for prototype testing (n=21; stage 1) were recruited from industry partner organizations to assess acceptability and utility. A 5-week effectiveness and feasibility pilot study (n=84; stage 2) was then undertaken, utilizing social media recruitment. Demographic data, acceptability and utility questionnaires, depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9), and other mental health measures were collected.

RESULTS

The majority of respondents felt HeadGear was easy to use (92%), easily understood (92%), were satisfied with the app (67%), and would recommend it to a friend (75%; stage 1). Stage 2 found that compared with baseline, depression and anxiety symptoms were significantly lower at follow-up (t30=2.53; P=.02 and t30=2.18; P=.04, respectively), days of sick leave in past month (t28=2.38; P=.02), and higher self-reported job performance (t28=−2.09; P=.046; stage 2). Over 90% of respondents claimed it helped improve their mental fitness, and user feedback was again positive. Attrition was high across the stages.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, HeadGear was well received, and preliminary findings indicate it may provide an innovative new platform for improving mental health outcomes. Unfortunately, attrition was a significant issue, and findings should be interpreted with caution. The next stage of evaluation will be a randomized controlled trial. If found to be efficacious, the app has the potential to reduce disease burden and improve health in this at-risk group.
�I would never have done it if it hadn�t been web-based�: Expectations and experiences of a web-based management program for hip and knee osteoarthritis (Preprint)
Authors: Cronström Anna , Dahlberg Leif E , Nero Håkan , Ericson Jennifer , Sjödahl Hammarlund Catharina
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

The combination of decreasing healthcare resources, long waiting lists, and limited options to meet the demands of the modern individual have significantly increased the use of web-based management options in healthcare during the last decade. According to international guidelines, the first line management for osteoarthritis (OA) is non-surgical, combining education and exercise therapy, but these guidelines are not always fully applied in practice. Web-based management programs have been suggested as a way to facilitate the implementation of such guidelines. However, patient experience of receiving OA management therapy delivered online has so far not been evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expectations and experiences of Joint Academy, a web-based management program for hip and knee OA, using a qualitative method.

METHODS

Nineteen patients with hip or knee OA were interviewed after completing their first six weeks in Joint Academy, using a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using a systematic text condensation method.

RESULTS

Three categories emerged during the interviews:
1) Management options for mitigating the consequences of OA, including a) Consequences of OA on everyday life and b) Expectations when joining Joint Academy
2) Experiences of the design and exercises in Joint Academy, including a) Easy to execute, b) Flexibility to choose when and where, c) The importance of interacting with physical therapists, and d) Motivation
3) Perceived effects of Joint Academy over time, and suggested improvements, with three subcategories a) Perceived effects of Joint Academy after the initial six weeks, b) Reasons for continuing to participate in the program and c) Suggestions for improving Joint Academy. The participants had mostly positive experiences of the program. The following reasons were cited as particularly important for a positive experience of the program: short waiting list, the flexibility of the execution of the program with regards to location and time, and the possibility to have daily contact with a physical therapist. These were also emphasized as advantages compared to traditional care.

CONCLUSIONS

Web-based management of OA that includes education and exercises as well as asynchronous chats with an assigned physical therapist for feedback, questions and engagement, seems to be a valid alternative to traditional treatment in enabling the implementation of OA guidelines in a wider community. In addition, the results contribute to the further development and improvement of web-based OA management programs.
A meta-analysis of effects of Internet CBT for anxiety disorders: open community versus clinical service recruitment (Preprint)
Authors: Romijn Geke , Batelaan Neeltje , Kok Robin , Koning Jeroen , van Balkom Anton , Titov Nickolai , Riper Heleen
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND

Ample studies show the high potential of Internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) for anxiety disorders. However, evidence for its effectiveness in routine care is scarce. We conducted a meta-analysis to compare results obtained in trials with open recruitment to results obtained in trials with clinical service recruitment and updated previous findings.

OBJECTIVE

The present study thus aims 1) to update the current evidence on iCBT for anxiety disorders by assessing overall efficacy and 2) to assess whether open recruitment results are comparable to those with recruitment in a routine care context.

METHODS

Randomised controlled trials were included in which the effects of iCBT for anxiety disorders were compared to wait-list controls (WLC) or face-to-face (f2f) CBT controls. Pooled effect sizes based on anxiety measures (primary outcome), depression and quality of life measures (secondary outcomes) were computed.

RESULTS

We included 42 studies with 53 comparisons (43 open recruitment comparisons and 10 clinical recruitment comparisons). Overall effect size of (1) iCBT versus WLC was g=0.72 (p<.001) and (2) iCBT versus f2f CBT g=0.12 (p=0.11). Subgroup analyses revealed (3) iCBT clinical recruitment studies with WLC as comparator: g=0.29 (p<0.01), while iCBT open recruitment studies with WLC comparators showed a higher significant effect of g=0.76 (p<0.001). (4) Clinical recruitment studies comparing iCBT to f2f CBT revealed a non-significant and small effect size g=0.06 (p=0.51) while open recruitment studies comparing iCBT to f2f CBT showed an effect of g=0.19 (p=0.09). Comparing clinical recruitment trials with open recruitment trials showed a significant difference in effect size (p<.001) based on WLC comparators, and no significant difference (p=0.38) based on f2f CBT comparators.

CONCLUSIONS

iCBT is effective in samples recruited in routine clinical practice, but effect sizes are smaller than those found in open recruitment trials. More studies with routine care populations are needed to further validate these findings.
Technical Efficency Of Soybean In Pandeglang Regency
Authors: Ardiansyah Nivo , Hartono Slamet , Suryantini Any
Published: July 2018

Pandeglang district is the largest soybean producer region in Banten province. Since the last four years, Pandeglang Regency has decreased land area and production. However, the amount of soybean productivity has increased. The ability of farmers to manage and allocate various inputs used in soybean farming affects the production and productivity of soybean and can give an idea of the level of efficiency achieved by farmers. So it is necessary to research whether the application or use of inputs in the process of soybean production has been at technically efficient level or not. Based on these conditions, in this study aims to: know the level of technical efficiency in soybean farming in Pandeglang regency. The basic method used in this research is descriptive method and the location of research is determined intentionally or purposive sampling. Sample selection for soybean farmer respondents was done by simple random sampling method of 77 soybean farmers. The result of the research shows that production factors that significantly affecting soybean production in Pandeglang are wide, fertilizer and insecticide. The average value of farmers' technical efficiency is 0.864. This figure indicates that the average farmers of respondents have reached technical efficiency in soybean production in the research area. the technical efficiency value of the stochastic function with the lowest value 0.6314 and the highest value 0.9599. Factors affecting technical inefficiency are age and training. However, these factors have a positive effect, meaning that both increase the level of technical inefficiency of soybean farming.
The Development Strategy of Soybean Agribusiness in PT Lentera Panen Mandiri
Authors: Nurpitasari Dewi , Waluyati Lestari Rahayu , Mulyo Jangkung Handoyo
Published: July 2018

The aims of this study are to identify both internal and external factors of agribusiness in PT Lentera Panen Mandiri (PT LPM), map the company’s position, and determine its development strategy. Main data used in this study is primary data obtained from stakeholders of PT LPM by direct interview. Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threat (SWOT) of soybean agribusiness in PT LPM were identified in this study and followed by determining the company’s position using SWOT diagram. Alternative srategies were derived from the SWOT matrix and prioritized using Quantitative Strategies Planning Matrix (QSPM) analysis. The results of this study identified 5 strengths, 7 weaknesses, 9 opportunities, and 6 threaths with the highest factors consisted as "company's commitment to supervise and foster farmers and suppliers", "is time-consuming sorting process and potency of mixed between rice and soybean", "opportunity to increase the  productivity of soybean at farmer level ", and "uncommit suppliers to supply only from areas that have been approved by the company" respectively. Based on the  SWOT diagram, soybean agribussiness in PT LPM positioned in Quadrant I, which mean that the company should apply Agressive Strategy or Strength – Opportunity (S-O) strategy. Based on the SWOT Matrix, 5 alternative of S-O strategies were derived. Based on the QSPM analysis, strategy for guarding and coaching farmers through patnership scheme is the first priority with Total Attarctive Score (TAS) is 12.9.
Desigualdades entre mujeres y hombres en todos los ciclos de vida. Evidencias de exclusión social en la República Dominicana: una nota crítica
Authors: CEG-INTEC Centro de Estudios de Género
Published: July 2018

El 8 de marzo de cada año se conmemora, de manera especial, la lucha de las mujeres del mundo en contra de la desigualdad. En este año 2018, en la República Dominicana continuamos viviendo desigualdades e injusticias históricas que afectan a la mayoría de la población y que son vividas en mayor profundidad por las mujeres, independientemente del ámbito territorial, urbano o rural y del ciclo de vida en que se encuentren –niñas, jóvenes, adultas o adultas mayores-.En el análisis que presenta este documento del CEGINTEC se presenta información clave sobre las tendencias que se observan en la situación por la que atraviesan mujeres y niñas de zonas urbanas y rurales en República Dominicana en el presente año 2018, en comparación con los hombres, y cómo esos datos son el reflejo de grandes retrasos para el ejercicio de los derechos de las mujeres y para el desarrollo humano del país.