bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Разработка криомагнитных систем для управления нейронной активностью с помощью магнитного поля
Authors: Наумов А. В. , Ковалев И. А. , Диев Д. Н. , Оленев А. О. , Поляков А. В. , Сурин М. И. , Щербаков В. И.
Published: June 2020

Разработаны и изготовлены источники магнитного поля для экспериментов по активации каналов нейронов. Разработаны криогенные магнитные системы, входящие в состав экспериментального исследовательского стенда для дистанционного регулирования экспрессии нейронов постоянным и низкочастотным (до 100 Гц) магнитными полями. При температуре жидкого азота (77 К) системы способны выдавать поле с величиной индукции ~0.5 Тл; при работе с переохлажденным жидким азотом (70–65 К) – выше 1 Тл. Подчеркнута актуальность применения в криомагнитной системе новейших и наиболее перспективных материалов на сегодняшний день – высокотемпературных сверхпроводников второго поколения.
The International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis (ISTH) interim guidance on recognition and management of coagulopathy in COVID-19: digest
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: June 2020

.
Comparison of nitrogen and phosphorus removal efficiency between two types of baffled vertical flow constructed wetlands planted with Oenanthe Javanica
Authors: Gao Jingqing , Yang Lei , Zhong Rui , Chen Yong , Zhang Jingshen , Gao Jianlei , Cai Ming , Zhang Jinliang
Published: June 2020

The environmental problems related to rural domestic sewage treatment are becoming increasingly serious, and society is also concerned about them. A baffled vertical flow constructed wetland (BVFCW) is a good choice for cleaning wastewater. Herein, a drinking-water treatment sludge-BVFCW (D-BVFCW) parallel with ceramsite-BVFCW (C-BVFCW) planted with Oenanthe javanica (O. javanica) to treat rural domestic sewage was investigated, aiming to compare nitrogen and phosphorus removal efficiency in different BVFCWs. A removal of 23.9% NH4+-N, 24.6% total nitrogen (TN) and 76.7% total phosphorus (TP) occurred simultaneously in the D-BVFCW; 56.4% NH4+-N, 60.8% TN and 55.2% TP respectively in the C-BVFCW. The root and plant height increased by an average of 7.9 cm and 8.3 cm, respectively, in the D-BVFCW, and by 0.7 cm and 1.1 cm, respectively, in the C-BVFCW. These results demonstrate that the D-BVFCW and C-BVFCW have different effects on the removal of N and P. The D-BVFCW mainly removed P, while C-BVFCW mainly removed N.
Assessing the Problem of Coal Combustion Products Accumulation in Ash and Slag Dumps of Russian Thermal Power Plants
Authors: Lapin Nikolai Sergeevich
Published: June 2020

In this article, the authors assess the problem of annual increase in ash and slag waste produced by Russian thermal power plants.
An in silico Workflow that Yields Experimentally Comparable Inhibitors for Human Dihydroorotate Dehydrogenase
Authors: M. Sucharita , B. Poorani , Swaminathan Priya
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Rheumatoid Arthritis [RA] is an autoimmune disease that can cause chronic inflammation
of the joints. Human DiHydroOrotate DeHydrogenase [DHODH] is a clinically validated drug
target for the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis. DHODH inhibition results in beneficial immunosuppressant
and anti-proliferative effects.

Materials and Methods:

Leflunomide [LEF] and Brequinar Sodium [BREQ], drugs used in the treatment
of RA, suppresses the immune cells responsible for inflammation but has several side-effects, most predominant
being symptomatic liver damage and toxicity. An existing scaffold based on structural analogies
with LEF and BREQ was used to screen out potent inhibitors of DHODH, in ZINC Database using 2D binary
fingerprint. 10 structures similar to the scaffold were shortlisted due to their Tanimoto similarity coefficient.
Selected structures were docked using the tools AutoDock, Ligand fit and iGEMDOCK with target
human DHODH. High scoring compounds having similar interactions as that of scaffold were checked to
evaluate their Drug-Likeliness.

Results:

The five shortlisted compounds were then subjected to Molecular Dynamics Simulation studies for
50ns using GROMACS. Measures of structural similarity based on 2D Fingerprint Screening and Molecular
Dynamics Simulation studies can suggest good leads for drug designing. The novelty of this study is
that the workflow used here yields the same results that are at par with the experimental data.

Conclusion:

This suggests the use of the 2D fingerprint similarity search in various databases, followed by
multiple docking algorithms and dynamics as a workflow that will lead to finding novel compounds that a
structurally and functionally similar to LEF and BREQ.
The Importance of Contract Farming to Small-scale Farmers in Africa and the Implications for Policy: A Review Scenario
Authors: Ncube Douglas
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Contract Farming (CF) has been largely believed to have the ability to promote the chances of Small-scale Farmers (SSFs) from less developed nations to participate in intensive agricultural production and lucrative export markets, thereby integrating them into the latest way of doing agri-business.

Problem statement:

A perennial issue of SSFs in Africa is a subsistence agricultural productivity due to lack of proper markets, credits and technology in recent years, aggravated by unstable prices of energy and food and lately by the global financial crisis.

Methodology:

The study is purely qualitative in nature, making use of secondary data (literature from journals, working papers, unpublished theses and other publications was analysed). The study reviewed CF definitions, the origins, evolution, models on CF, SSFs and CF, objectives, policy-issues and implications to conclusions and recommendations.

Results:

The study has shown that adjustments in agri-food systems globally are producing an increased new interest in CF as a supply-chain governance strategy. It has been established that small and medium size farmers in Africa are suppressed by market bottlenecks or unfairness, for example, restricted access to loan facilities, insurance and specialised agri-inputs at above-average costs.

Conclusion:

Government and the private sector must formulate contractual laws that will govern agricultural production and marketing agreements between agri-businesses and farmers in addition to establishing and strengthening contract-enforcing institutions to protect both parties contract from any contractual problems, for example, side marketing. Contract Farming brings out the best outcomes for farmers when they have sufficient bargaining power to negotiate the terms of the contract.
Cognitive Examination In Thalassemia Patients
Authors: Gamayani Uni , Calista Chandra , Ong Anam , Fianza Pandji Irani , Panigoro Ramdan
Published: June 2020

Background:

Many studies on thalassemia patients have shown cognitive decline that may affect the patients’ life. To clarify the cognitive value in thalassemia patients, we performed a neuropsychological test on these patients.

Methods:

This was a prospective observational analytic with case control study involving 40 thalassemia patients and 40 controls similar for age, sex, and education. All subjects underwent a comprehensive neuropsychological test including visual cognitive assessment.

Results:

Compared to controls, patients with thalassemia aged 15-47 years old had poorer results in world list recall (p=0.026), TMT-B (p=0.042), clock drawing test (p=0.049), ADAS-Cog (p=0.014), logical memory (p=0.001) and digit symbol (p<0.001). These results indicate that thalassemia patients have significantly lower attention, verbal memory capability, and executive function.

Conclusion:

Our findings concluded that patients with thalassemia have impaired multiple cognitive domains.
Self-Efficacy and Intensity of the Use of Social Media on Consumption Behavior: Case Study in the Economics Faculty of Yogyakarta State University
Authors: Sartika Nyimas Yuhanis , Sugiharsono Sugiharsono
Published: June 2020

Abstract: This study aims to examine the effect of self-efficacy and the intensity of social media use on student consumption behaviour, both partially and simultaneously. It belongs to causal associative research with a quantitative approach. The population of this study was 476 undergraduate students batch of 2016 in the Faculty of Economics, Yogyakarta State University (YSU). A sample of 217 students was selected through a proportional cluster random sampling technique. Data were collected using questionnaires that were previously tested for validity and reliability. The data analysis technique used a multiple regression.  Keywords: consumption behavior, self-efficay, intensity of the use of social media  Efikasi Diri dan Intensitas Penggunaan Media Sosial Terhadap Perilaku Konsumsi: Stadi Kasus di Fakultas Ekonomi Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh efikasi diri dan intensitas penggunaan media sosial terhadap perilaku konsumsi mahasiswa, baik secara parsial maupun simultan. Penelitian ini termasuk penelitian asosiatif kausal dengan pendekatan kuantitatif. Populasi penelitian ini adalah 476 mahasiswa Strata-1 Fakultas Ekonomi Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta angkatan 2016. Adapun jumlah sampel 217 mahasiswa yang diambil dengan teknik proportional cluster random sampling. Data dikumpulkan dengan kuisioner yang telah diuji validitas dan reliabilitasnya. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah regresi berganda.  Kata kunci: perilaku konsumsi, efikasi diri, intensitas penggunaan media sosial
Demographic Transition and Economic Growth in Indonesia
Authors: Rostiana Endang , Rodesbi Anggia
Published: June 2020

Abstract: Demographic transition in Indonesia indicated by an increase in the productive age population, a decrease in the unproductive age population, and leads to a decrease in the dependency ratio. This study analyzes the relationship between demographic transition and Indonesia's economic growth. If the population structure changes contribute positively to economic development, it means that Indonesia has enjoyed a bonus from their demographic transition. The analysis used was multiple regression, with economic growth rate as dependent variable and population growth rate, capital, young age dependency ratio and old age dependency ratio as independent variables. This study has found that the demographic transition, represented by growth of young age dependency ratio, growth of capital, and economic crisis dummy variable partially contributes positively to economic growth. It can be concluded that the demographic transition in Indonesia provides a bonus that is in the form of a positive contribution to economic growth. Keywords: economic growth, capital, population, dependency ratio Transisi Demografi dan Pertumbuhan Ekonomi Indonesia Abstrak: Transisi demografi di Indonesia ditandai dengan penurunan tingkat fertilitas dan mortalitas, yang berdampak pada peningkatan persentase penduduk usia produktif dan penurunan persentase penduduk usia tidak produktif. Hal ini menyebabkan angka beban tanggungan menjadi semakin kecil. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis hubungan transisi demografi dengan pertumbuhan ekonomi Indonesia. Jika transisi demografi berkontribusi positif pada pertumbuhan ekonomi, maka dapat dikatakan Indonesia telah menikmati bonus demografi. Model analisis menggunakan persamaan regresi, dengan pertumbuhan ekonomi sebagai variabel terikat. Variabel bebasnya adalah pertumbuhan penduduk, pertumbuhan modal, pertumbuhan dependency ratio penduduk usia muda, dan pertumbuhan dependency ratio penduduk usia lanjut. Hasil regresi menunjukkan bahwa transisi demografi yang diwakili oleh pertumbuhan dependency ratio penduduk usia muda, pertumbuhan modal, dan variabel dummy krisis ekonomi secara parsial berpengaruh positif terhadap perumbuhan ekonomi Indonesia. Hasil tersebut dapat disimpulkan bahwa transisi demografi memberikan bonus berupa kontribusi positif terhadap pertumbuhan ekonomi di Indonesia. Kata kunci: pertumbuhan ekonomi, modal, penduduk, dependency ratio
Analisa sebaran klasifikasi Usaha Kecil Menengah (UKM) di Kabupaten Tegal
Authors: Ahmad Gilang Rusadi , Susantiaji Ari
Published: June 2020

Sektor Usaha Kecil dan Menengah (UKM) merupakan sektor perekonomian andalan di Indonesia. Sektor UKM dikenal memiliki daya serap tenaga kerja yang tinggi dibandingkan sektor-sektor lain. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pola sebaran UKM di Kabupaten Tegal, analisa sebaran kaitannya dengan kondisi perekonomian dan geografis suatu wilayah, serta analisa potensi pengembangan UKM di Kabupaten Tegal. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode kuantitatif.  Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian adalah data jumlah UKM di Kabupaten Tegal tahun 2019. Rumus sturgess digunakan untuk menghasilkan klasifikasi jumlah UKM rendah, sedang, dan tinggi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa 10 kecamatan (55,56 %) kategori rendah, 7  kecamatan (38,89 %) kategori sedang, dan hanya 1 kecamatan (5,56 %) kategori tinggi. Dapat disimpulkan bahwa sebagian besar wilayah di Kabupaten Tegal termasuk dalam klasifikasi UKM berkategori rendah. Hasil analisa sebaran dan klasifikasi UKM di Kabupaten Tegal dapat digunakan sebagai salah satu bahan dalam membuat kebijakan pengembangan sektor UKM.
KONSEP PENDIDIKAN KARAKTER INDIGENOUS DALAM PERSPEKTIF ALQURAN
Authors: Achmad Yudianto
Published: June 2020

Pendidikan karakter dalam perspektif Islam dipandang sangat penting dan merupakan bagian tak terpisahkan dari konsep pendidikan Islam secara keseluruhan berdasarkan petunjuk Alquran. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengungkapkan perumusan konsep dan model implementasi pendidikan karakter indigenous dalam perspektif Alquran untuk peserta didik di masa usia pranikah, prenatal, dan golden age. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif. Data dikumpulkan dengan melakukan observasi terhadap surat dan ayat-ayat Alquran, serta sains yang terkait dengan pendidikan karakter indigenous dalam perspektif Alquran, teknik analisis data menggunakan model analisis tafsir al-maudlu’iy. Hasil penelitian ini antara lain mengungkapkan tentang perumusan konsep dan model implementasi pendidikan karakter indigenous dalam perspektif Alquran di masa usia pranikah, prenatal, serta golden age. Simpulan dari penelitian ini antara lain bahwa dalam perspektif sains dan Alquran, manusia dari sejak dilahirkan memiliki dua jenis karakter indigenous yang berpasangan dan bersifat saling berlawanan, yakni karakter kebaikan (taqwa) dan karakter keburukan (fujur). Aktualisasi dan pengembangan karakter indigenous manusia dilakukan melalui pendidikan karakter yang memaksimalkan karakter kebaikan (taqwa) dan meminimalkan karakter keburukan (fujur). Kata Kunci: Pendidikan karakter indigenous, taqwa, fujur, perspektif Alquran. CONCEPT OF INDIGENOUS CHARACTER EDUCATION IN THE QUR'AN PERSPECTIVE Abstract: Character education in Islamic perspective is considered very important and is an inseparable part of the concept of Islamic education as a whole based on Qur'anic instructions. This study aims to reveal the formulation of concepts and models for the implementation of indigenous character education in the perspective of the Qur'an for students in premarital, prenatal, and golden age. This research uses a qualitative approach. Data is collected by observing the letters and verses of the Qur’an, as well as science related to indigenous character education in the perspective of the Qur’an. The data analysis technique uses the analysis model of al-maudlu'iy interpretation. The results of this study, among others, reveal about the formulation of concepts and models for the implementation of indigenous character education in the perspective of the Qur'an at the time of premarital, prenatal, and golden age. The conclusions of this study include that in the perspective of science and the Qur'an, humans from birth have two types of indigenous characters that are paired and are antagonistic, namely the character of goodness (taqwa) and the character of badness (fujur). Actualization and development of indigenous character of human being is done through character education that maximizes the character of goodness (taqwa) and minimizes the character of badness (fujur). Keywords: Indigenous character education, taqwa, fujur, Qur’an perspective
Частота и быстродействие спинового вентиля с планарной анизотропией слоев
Authors: Юсипова Ю.А.
Published: June 2020

The dynamics of the magnetization vector in the free layer of a layered spin-valve structure was simulated. As materials for the free and fixed layers, six magnetically soft ferromagnets with longitudinal anisotropy were considered. The types of magnetization dynamics that are of practical interest for MRAM and HMDD (switching of the magnetization vector), STNO (stable precession of the magnetization vector), and the base element PSL (switching of the magnetization vector with two probable outcomes) were highlighted. The ranges of currents and fields corresponding to these operating modes of the spin valve were calculated. The numerical calculations of the switching time showed that, among the considered materials for the MRAM cell, the most suitable is Co80Gd20 alloy, while for the HMDD read head, it is Fe60Co20B20. As a result of the precession frequency calculations, it was concluded that the Fe60Co20B20 alloy is optimal for the STNO ferromagnetic layers. For the implementation of PSL, the best switching characteristics were demonstrated by the Co93Gd7 alloy.
Природа псевдощелевой фазы ВТСП купратов
Authors: Москвин А.С. , Панов Ю.Д.
Published: June 2020

The pseudogap phase of HTSC cuprates is associated with the formation of a system of quantum electron-hole (EH) dimers similar to the Anderson RVB-phase. We considered the specific role of electron-lattice relaxation in the formation of metastable EH dimers in cuprates with T- and T′-structures. In the model of charge triplets and S = 1 pseudospin formalism, the effective spin-pseudospin Hamiltonian of the cuprate CuO2 plane is introduced. In the framework of the molecular field approximation (MFA) for the coordinate representation, the main MFA phases were found: an antiferromagnetic insulator, a charge density wave, a bosonic superconductor with d-symmetry of the order parameter, and two metal Fermi-phases forming the phase of the "strange" metal. We argue that the MFA can correctly reproduce all the features of the typical cuprate phase diagrams. As for typical s = 1/2 quantum antiferromagnet the actually observed cuprate phases such as charge order and superconductivity reflect "physical" ground state, which is close to MFA-phases but with strongly reduced magnitudes of the local order parameters.
Фотоиндуцированный магнитооптический эффект Керра в сульфиде европия EuS
Authors: Усачёв П.А. , Кац В.Н. , Павлов В.В.
Published: June 2020

The photoinduced magnetization in europium sulfide EuS was studied by the magneto-optical Kerr effect. It is experimentally established that when a sample is exposed to light with a photon energy greater than the band gap, photoinduced magnetization arises, associated with the formation of magnetic polarons with a large magnetic moment of about 3000 μB. The polarons are excited in a narrow temperature range of 12-18 K and form a superparamagnetic ensemble with an average polaron lifetime of 13 µs. An experimental setup for measuring photoinduced magnetization with the optical pump-and-probe method is described.
Инжекция неравновесного спина в геликоидальный ферромагнетик
Authors: Караштин Е.А.
Published: June 2020

The properties of spin injection into a helicoidal ferromagnet are studied. Two possible ways of spin injection are investigated: injection of spin-polarized electric current and effect of spin pumping. In the case when helicoid axis is perpendicular to the boundary through which the spin is injected the conditions of spin injection into a pre-defined spin band are determined. In the case when helicoid axis is parallel to the boundary the appearance of effect similar to topological Hall effect is shown. In the latter geometry, spin pumping leads to the exchange conversion of spin current into electric current that flows parallel to the helicoid axis.
Ферромагнетизм в гетероструктуре ферромагнитная пленка железо-иттриевого граната/ферромагнитный интерметаллид
Authors: Шайхулов Т.А. , Овсянников Г.А. , Константинян К.И. , Климов А.А. , Демидов В.В. , Станкевич К.Л. , Tiercelin N. , Pernod P. , Никитов С.А.
Published: June 2020

Abstract We report on the investigations of the magnetic properties and ferromagnetic resonance in the heterostructure consisting of an epitaxial yttrium iron garnet (Y_3Fe_5O_12) film and a nanometer rare-earth intermetallic superlattice comprised of the (TbCo_2/FeCo)_ n exchange-coupled layers. The (TbCo_2/FeCo)_ n superlattice exhibits the giant magnetostriction and the controlled magnetic anisotropy induced by a magnetic field or elastic stresses. The magnetic interaction of the films in the (TbCo_2/FeCo)_ n /Y_3Fe_5O_12 heterostructure has been experimentally established and the spin current flowing through their interface has been detected.
Поверхностные магнитостатические волны в пленках железо-иттриевого граната с поверхностной субволновой метаструктурой из пленки пермаллоя
Authors: Высоцкий С.Л. , Хивинцев Ю.В. , Сахаров В.К. , Новицкий Н.Н. , Дудко Г.М. , Стогний А.И. , Филимонов Ю.А.
Published: June 2020

The frequency dependencies of the transmission coefficient of surface magnetostatic waves (SMSW) propagating in subwavelength magnonic structures obtained by depositing of 1D and 2D thin-film metastructures based on a permalloy film 40 nm thick onto the surface of yttrium iron garnet (YIG) film were experimentally studied. Such structures in the frequency range 1–10 GHz (typical for the study of SMSW in YIG films) lead to modulation of attenuation and the effective internal magnetic field in the YIG film. The possibility of controlling the parameters of the bandwidth of the SMSW by the choice of the direction of magnetization in the plane of the structures relative to their axis of symmetry is shown.
Магнитные состояния двухфазных синтезированных частиц Fe-=SUB=-m-=/SUB=-O-=SUB=-n-=/SUB=--Fe-=SUB=-3-x-=/SUB=-Ti-=SUB=-x-=/SUB=-O-=SUB=-4-=/SUB=-: экспериментальный и теоретический анализ
Authors: Харитонский П.В. , Костеров А.А. , Гурылёв А.К. , Гареев К.Г. , Кириллова С.А. , Золотов Н.А. , Аникиева Ю.А.
Published: June 2020

In this work, the materials of FemOn – Fe3-xTixO4 composition have been obtained using the sol-gel method and hydrothermal treatment. The synthesis conditions favor the formation of composites containing titanomagnetite in a rather low concentration. Based on the hysteresis curves and temperature dependences of the remanent magnetization, theoretical analysis of the composites magnetic properties has been carried out using a model of clustered two-phase particles bound with magnetostatic interaction.
Use of a Smartphone App for Weight Loss Versus a Paper-Based Dietary Diary in Overweight Adults: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ahn Jeong Sun , Lee Heejin , Kim Jiae , Park Haemin , Kim Dong Woo , Lee Jung Eun
Published: June 2020

Background

Mobile health (mHealth) tools may be useful platforms for dietary monitoring and assessment.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a mobile dietary self-monitoring app for weight loss versus a paper-based diary among adults with a BMI of 23 kg/m2 or above.

Methods

A total of 33 men and 17 women aged 18-39 years participated in a 6-week randomized controlled trial. We randomly assigned participants to one of two groups: (1) a smartphone app group (n=25) or (2) a paper-based diary group (n=25). The smartphone app group recorded foods and dietary supplements that they consumed and received immediate dietary feedback using Well-D, a dietary self-monitoring app developed by our team. The paper-based diary group was instructed to record foods or supplements that they consumed using a self-recorded diary. The primary outcomes were weight, BMI, waist circumference, body fat mass, and skeletal muscle mass. We also examined changes in nutrient intake, including energy, carbohydrate, protein, fat, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, using 3-day 24-hour recalls. Differences in changes between the two groups were analyzed using independent t tests or Wilcoxon Mann-Whitney tests. All of the data were analyzed using intent-to-treat analysis.

Results

The mean number of days recorded was 18.5 (SD 14.1) for the app group and 15.5 (SD 10.1) for the paper-based diary group. The differences in changes in weight, BMI, and waist circumference were not significantly different between the app group and paper-based diary group (P=.33, .34, and .70, respectively). Similarly, changes in body fat mass or skeletal muscle mass did not differ between the two groups (P=.71 and .054, respectively). Although energy intake was reduced in both groups, there was no significant difference in changes in energy intake between the two groups (P=.98).

Conclusions

There were no differences in changes in anthropometric measures and nutrient intake between the app group and the paper-based diary group. Both mobile dietary self-monitoring app and paper-based diary may be useful for improving anthropometric measures.

Trial Registration

Clinical Research Information Service KCT0003170; https://cris.nih.go.kr/cris/search/search_result_st01_en.jsp?seq=11642<ype=&rtype=
Cancer Survivors’ Receptiveness to Digital Technology–Supported Physical Rehabilitation and the Implications for Design: Qualitative Study
Authors: Rossen Sine , Kayser Lars , Vibe-Petersen Jette , Christensen Jesper Frank , Ried-Larsen Mathias
Published: June 2020

Background

Physical activity is associated with a positive prognosis in cancer survivors and may decrease the risk of adverse effects of treatment. Accordingly, physical activity programs are recommended as a part of cancer rehabilitation services. Digital technology may support cancer survivors in increasing their level of physical activity and increase the reach or efficiency of cancer rehabilitation services, yet it also comes with a range of challenges.

Objective

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore cancer survivors’ receptiveness to using digital technology as a mode of support to increase their physical activity in a municipality-based cancer rehabilitation setting.

Methods

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 11 cancer survivors (3 males, 8 females, age range 32-82 years) who were referred for cancer rehabilitation and had participated in a questionnaire survey using the Readiness and Enablement Index for Health Technology (READHY) questionnaire. Data analysis was based on the content analysis method.

Results

Two themes were identified as important for the interviewees’ receptiveness to using digital technology services in connection with their physical activity during rehabilitation: their attitude toward physical activity and their attitude toward digital technology–assisted physical activity. Our results indicated that it is important to address the cancer survivors’ motivation for using technology for physical activity and their individual preferences in terms of the following: (1) incidental or structured (eg, cardiovascular and strength exercises or disease-specific rehabilitative exercises) physical activity; (2) social or individual context; and (3) instruction (know-how) or information (know-why).

Conclusions

The identified preferences provide new insight that complements the cancer survivors’ readiness level and can likely help designers, service providers, and caregivers provide solutions that increase patient receptiveness toward technology-assisted physical activity. Combining digital technology informed by cancer survivors’ needs, preferences, and readiness with the capacity building of the workforce can aid in tailoring digital solutions to suit not only individuals who are receptive to using such technologies but also those reluctant to do so.
Development and Evaluation of a Smart Contract–Enabled Blockchain System for Home Care Service Innovation: Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Chang Shuchih Ernest , Chen YiChian , Lu MingFang , Luo Hueimin Louis
Published: June 2020

Background

In the home care industry, the assignment and tracking of care services are controlled by care centers that are centralized in nature and prone to inefficient information transmission. A lack of trust among the involved parties, information opaqueness, and large manual manipulation result in lower process efficiency.

Objective

This study aimed to explore and demonstrate the application of blockchain and smart contract technologies to innovate/renovate home care services for harvesting the desired blockchain benefits of process transparency, traceability, and interoperability.

Methods

An object-oriented analysis/design combined with a unified modeling language tool was used to construct the architecture of the proposed home care service system. System feasibility was evaluated via an implementation test, and a questionnaire survey was performed to collect opinions from home care service respondents knowledgeable about blockchain and smart contracts.

Results

According to the comparative analysis results, the proposed design outperformed the existing system in terms of traceability, system efficiency, and process automation. Moreover, for the questionnaire survey, the quantitative analysis results showed that the proposed blockchain-based system had significantly (P<.001) higher mean scores (when compared with the existing system) in terms of important factors, including timeliness, workflow efficiency, automatic notifications, insurance functionality, and auditable traceability. In summary, blockchain-based home care service participants will be able to enjoy improved efficiency, better transparency, and higher levels of process automation.

Conclusions

Blockchain and smart contracts can provide valuable benefits to the home care service industry via distributed data management and process automation. The proposed system enhances user experiences by mitigating human intervention and improving service interoperability, transparency/traceability, and real-time response to home care service events. Efforts in exploring and integrating blockchain-based home care services with emerging technologies, such as the internet of things and artificial intelligence, are expected to provide further benefits and therefore are subject to future research.
Identification of Type 2 Diabetes Management Mobile App Features and Engagement Strategies: Modified Delphi Approach
Authors: Alenazi Hanan A , Jamal Amr , Batais Mohammed A
Published: June 2020

Background

Diabetes is a significant public health issue. Saudi Arabia has the highest prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in the Arab world. Currently, it affects 31.6% of the general population, and the prevalence of T2DM is predicted to rise to 45.36% by 2030. Mobile health (mHealth) offers improved and cost-effective care to people with T2DM. However, the efficiency of engagement strategies and features of this technology need to be reviewed and standardized according to stakeholder and expert perspectives.

Objective

The main objective of this study was to identify the most agreed-upon features for T2DM self-management mobile apps; the secondary objective was to identify the most agreed-upon strategies that prompt users to use these apps.

Methods

In this study, a 4-round modified Delphi method was applied by experts in the domain of diabetes care.

Results

In total, 11 experts with a mean age of 47.09 years (SD 11.70) consented to participate in the study. Overall, 36 app features were generated. The group of experts displayed weak agreement in their ranking of intervention components (Kendall W=0.275; P<.001). The top 5 features included insulin dose adjustment according to carbohydrate counting and blood glucose readings (5.36), alerting a caregiver of abnormal or critical readings (6.09), nutrition education (12.45), contacts for guidance if required (12.64), and offering patient-specific education tailored to the user’s goals, needs, and blood glucose readings (12.90). In total, 21 engagement strategies were generated. Overall, the experts showed a moderate degree of consensus in their strategy rankings (Kendall W=0.454; P<.001). The top 5 engagement strategies included a user-friendly design (educational and age-appropriate design; 2.82), a free app (3.73), allowing the user to communicate or send information/data to a health care provider (HCP; 5.36), HCPs prescribing the mobile app in the clinic and asking about patients’ app use compliance during clinical visits (6.91), and flexibility and customization (7.91).

Conclusions

This is the first study in the region consisting of a local panel of experts from the diabetes field gathering together. We used an iterative process to combine the experts’ opinions into a group consensus. The results of this study could thus be useful for health app developers and HCPs and inform future decision making on the topic.
Differences in Electronic Personal Health Information Tool Use Between Rural and Urban Cancer Patients in the United States: Secondary Data Analysis
Authors: Greenberg-Worisek Alexandra , Ferede Liaa , Balls-Berry Joyce , Marigi Ian , Valentin Mendez Emily , Bajwa Numra , Ouk Melody , Orellana Minerva , Enders Felicity
Published: June 2020

Background

Studies have previously shown that rural cancer patients are diagnosed at later stages of disease. This delay is felt throughout treatment and follow-up, reflected in the fact that rural patients often have poorer clinical outcomes compared with their urban counterparts.

Objective

Few studies have explored whether there is a difference in cancer patients’ current use of health information technology tools by residential location.

Methods

Data from 7 cycles of the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS, 2003-2017) were merged and analyzed to examine whether differences exist in managing electronic personal health information (ePHI) and emailing health care providers among rural and urban cancer patients. Geographic location was categorized using Rural-Urban Continuum Codes (RUCCs). Bivariate analyses and multivariable logistic regression were used to determine whether associations existed between rural/urban residency and use of health information technology among cancer patients.

Results

Of the 3031 cancer patients/survivors who responded across the 7 cycles of HINTS, 797 (26.9%) resided in rural areas. No difference was found between rural and urban cancer patients in having managed ePHI in the past 12 months (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.43-1.40). Rural cancer patients were significantly less likely to email health care providers than their urban counterparts (OR 0.52, 95% CI 0.32-0.84).

Conclusions

The digital divide between rural and urban cancer residents does not extend to general ePHI management; however, electronic communication with providers is significantly lower among rural cancer patients than urban cancer patients. Further research is needed to determine whether such disparities extend to other health information technology tools that might benefit rural cancer patients as well as other chronic conditions.
Designing a Virtual Reality Game for Promoting Empathy Toward Patients With Chronic Pain: Feasibility and Usability Study
Authors: Tong Xin , Gromala Diane , Kiaei Ziabari Seyedeh Pegah , Shaw Christopher D
Published: June 2020

Background

Many researchers have been evaluating how digital media may impact the emotional and perspective taking aspects of empathy in both clinical and nonclinical settings. Despite the growing interest in using virtual reality (VR) and VR games to motivate empathy, few studies have focused on empathy for people who live with chronic pain.

Objective

Chronic pain affects, by conservative estimates, 1 in 5 people in industrialized countries. Despite this prevalence, public awareness of chronic pain was remarkably low until the recent opioid crisis; as a result, stigma remains a problem frequently faced by people who live with this condition. To address this, the VR game AS IF was developed to increase nonpatients’ empathy toward the growing number of people who live with long-term chronic pain. On the basis of our prior work, we overhauled our approach, designed and built a VR prototype and evaluated it, and offered design suggestions for future research.

Methods

We introduced the design features of the VR game AS IF and described the study we devised to evaluate its effectiveness. We adopted a mixed methods approach and compared the empathy-related outcomes in both pre- and posttesting. A total of 19 participants were recruited.

Results

The findings of this study suggest that the VR game was effective in improving implicit and explicit empathy as well as its emotional and perspective taking aspects. More specifically, for the Empathy Scale, the total pretest scores (mean 47.33, SD 4.24) and posttest scores (mean 59.22, SD 4.33) did not reach statistical significance (P=.08). However, we did find differences in the subscales. The kindness subscale showed a statistically significant increase in the posttest score (mean 15.61, SD 2.85) compared with the pretest score (mean 17.06, SD 2.65;P=.001). For the Willingness to Help Scale, a significant increase was observed from a t test analysis (P<.001) of scores before (mean 7.17, SD 2.28) and after (mean 8.33, SD 2.03) the gameplay. The effect size for this analysis was large (d=−1.063).

Conclusions

The contributions of this research are as follows: AS IF provides a promising approach for designing VR games to motivate people’s empathy toward patients with chronic pain, the study evaluates the potential effectiveness of such a VR approach, and the general design suggestions devised from this study could shed light on future VR game systems.
Information and Communications Technology–Based Interventions Targeting Patient Empowerment: Framework Development
Authors: Karni Liran , Dalal Koustuv , Memedi Mevludin , Kalra Dipak , Klein Gunnar Oskar
Published: June 2020

Background

Empowerment of patients is often an explicit goal of various information and communications technology (ICT) (electronic, digital) interventions where the patients themselves use ICT tools via the internet. Although several models of empowerment exist, a comprehensive and pragmatic framework is lacking for the development of such interventions.

Objective

This study proposes a framework for digital interventions aiming to empower patients that includes a methodology that links objectives, strategies, and evaluation.

Methods

This study is based on a literature review and iterated expert discussions including a focus group to formulate the proposed model. Our model is based on a review of various models of empowerment and models of technology intervention.

Results

Our framework includes the core characteristics of the empowerment concept (control, psychological coping, self-efficacy, understanding, legitimacy, and support) as well as a set of empowerment consequences: expressed patient perceptions, behavior, clinical outcomes, and health systems effects. The framework for designing interventions includes strategies to achieve empowerment goals using different ICT services. Finally, the intervention model can be used to define project evaluations where the aim is to demonstrate empowerment. The study also included example indicators and associated measurement instruments.

Conclusions

This framework, which includes definitions, can be useful for the design and evaluation of digital interventions targeting patient empowerment and assist in the development of methods to measure results in this dimension. Further evaluation in the form of interventional studies will be needed to assess the generalizability of the model.
The Mobile App Development and Assessment Guide (MAG): Delphi-Based Validity Study
Authors: Llorens-Vernet Pere , Miró Jordi
Published: June 2020

Background

In recent years, there has been an exponential growth of mobile health (mHealth)–related apps. This has occurred in a somewhat unsupervised manner. Therefore, having a set of criteria that could be used by all stakeholders to guide the development process and the assessment of the quality of the apps is of most importance.

Objective

The aim of this paper is to study the validity of the Mobile App Development and Assessment Guide (MAG), a guide recently created to help stakeholders develop and assess mobile health apps.

Methods

To conduct a validation process of the MAG, we used the Delphi method to reach a consensus among participating stakeholders. We identified 158 potential participants: 45 patients as potential end users, 41 health care professionals, and 72 developers. We sent participants an online survey and asked them to rate how important they considered each item in the guide to be on a scale from 0 to 10. Two rounds were enough to reach consensus.

Results

In the first round, almost one-third (n=42) of those invited participated, and half of those (n=24) also participated in the second round. Most items in the guide were found to be important to a quality mHealth-related app; a total of 48 criteria were established as important. “Privacy,” “security,” and “usability” were the categories that included most of the important criteria.

Conclusions

The data supports the validity of the MAG. In addition, the findings identified the criteria that stakeholders consider to be most important. The MAG will help advance the field by providing developers, health care professionals, and end users with a valid guide so that they can develop and identify mHealth-related apps that are of quality.
Online Guide for Electronic Health Evaluation Approaches: Systematic Scoping Review and Concept Mapping Study
Authors: Bonten Tobias N , Rauwerdink Anneloek , Wyatt Jeremy C , Kasteleyn Marise J , Witkamp Leonard , Riper Heleen , van Gemert-Pijnen Lisette JEWC , Cresswell Kathrin , Sheikh Aziz , Schijven Marlies P , Chavannes Niels H ,   EHealth Evaluation Research Group
Published: June 2020

Background

Despite the increase in use and high expectations of digital health solutions, scientific evidence about the effectiveness of electronic health (eHealth) and other aspects such as usability and accuracy is lagging behind. eHealth solutions are complex interventions, which require a wide array of evaluation approaches that are capable of answering the many different questions that arise during the consecutive study phases of eHealth development and implementation. However, evaluators seem to struggle in choosing suitable evaluation approaches in relation to a specific study phase.

Objective

The objective of this project was to provide a structured overview of the existing eHealth evaluation approaches, with the aim of assisting eHealth evaluators in selecting a suitable approach for evaluating their eHealth solution at a specific evaluation study phase.

Methods

Three consecutive steps were followed. Step 1 was a systematic scoping review, summarizing existing eHealth evaluation approaches. Step 2 was a concept mapping study asking eHealth researchers about approaches for evaluating eHealth. In step 3, the results of step 1 and 2 were used to develop an “eHealth evaluation cycle” and subsequently compose the online “eHealth methodology guide.”

Results

The scoping review yielded 57 articles describing 50 unique evaluation approaches. The concept mapping study questioned 43 eHealth researchers, resulting in 48 unique approaches. After removing duplicates, 75 unique evaluation approaches remained. Thereafter, an “eHealth evaluation cycle” was developed, consisting of six evaluation study phases: conceptual and planning, design, development and usability, pilot (feasibility), effectiveness (impact), uptake (implementation), and all phases. Finally, the “eHealth methodology guide” was composed by assigning the 75 evaluation approaches to the specific study phases of the “eHealth evaluation cycle.”

Conclusions

Seventy-five unique evaluation approaches were found in the literature and suggested by eHealth researchers, which served as content for the online “eHealth methodology guide.” By assisting evaluators in selecting a suitable evaluation approach in relation to a specific study phase of the “eHealth evaluation cycle,” the guide aims to enhance the quality, safety, and successful long-term implementation of novel eHealth solutions.
A Dietary Mobile App for Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: Prospective Pilot Study to Improve Dietary Intakes
Authors: Fakih El Khoury Cosette , Crutzen Rik , Schols Jos M G A , Halfens Ruud J G , Karavetian Mirey
Published: June 2020

Background

Mobile technology has an impact on the health care sector, also within dietetics. Mobile health (mHealth) apps may be used for dietary assessment and self-monitoring, allowing for real-time reporting of food intakes. Changing eating behaviors is quite challenging, and patients undergoing hemodialysis, particularly, struggle to meet the target intakes set by dietary guidelines. Usage of mobile apps that are developed in a person-centered approach and in line with recommendations may support both patients and health care practitioners.

Objective

This study is a pilot that aims at estimating the potential efficacy of a dietary intervention using a theory-based, person-centered smartphone app. Results will be used to improve both the app and a planned large-scale trial intended to assess app efficacy thoroughly.

Methods

A prospective pilot study was performed at the hemodialysis unit of Al Qassimi Hospital (The Emirate of Sharjah). All patients that fulfilled the study inclusion criteria were considered eligible to be enrolled in the pilot study. Upon successful installation of the app, users met with a dietitian once a week. Outcomes were measured at baseline (T0) and 2 weeks post app usage (T1). This pilot is reported as per guidelines for nonrandomized pilot and feasibility studies and in line with the CONSORT 2010 checklist for reporting pilot or feasibility trials.

Results

A total of 23 patients completed the pilot intervention. Mean energy intakes increased from 24.4 kcal/kg/day (SD 8.0) to 29.1 kcal/kg/day (SD 7.8) with a medium effect size (d=0.6, 95% CI 0.0-1.2). Mean protein intakes increased from 0.9 g/kg/day (SD 0.3) to 1.3 g/kg/day (SD 0.5) with a large effect size (d=1.0, 95% CI 0.4-1.6); mean intake of high biological value (%HBV) proteins also increased from 58.6% (SD 10.1) to 70.1% (SD 10.7) with a large effect size (d=1.1, 95% CI 0.5-1.7). Dietary intakes of minerals did not change, apart from sodium which decreased from a mean intake of 2218.8 mg/day (SD 631.6) to 1895.3 mg/day (SD 581.0) with a medium effect size (d=0.5, 95% CI 0.1-1.1). Mean serum phosphorus, potassium, and albumin levels did not change relevantly. Mean serum iron increased from 7.9 mg/dL (SD 2.8) to 11.5 mg/dL (SD 7.9) postintervention with a medium effect size (d=0.6, 95% CI 0.0-1.2).

Conclusions

This pilot study showed that the KELA.AE app has the potential to improve dietary intakes. Processes related to procedure, resources, tools, and app improvement for a future trial were assessed. A more extended intervention using a randomized controlled trial is required to estimate parameters concerning app efficacy accurately.