bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KARAKTERISTIK CEROBONG BOILER INDUSTRI DI PROPINSI JAWA TENGAH SEBAGAI BENTUK UPAYA PENTAATAN PENGELOLAAN LINGKUNGAN
Authors: Juliasari Ikha Rasti , Fatkhurrahman Januar Arif
Published: April 2020

Industri dalam proses produksinya tidak lepas dari pemakaian bahan bakar baik minyak, batubara, maupun gas untuk menjalankan unit proses yang ada, dari mulai heater, boiler, oven, generator set (genset) sampai incenerator dimana dalam pembakaran menghasilkan emisi. Emisi ini dikeluarkan ke lingkungan melalui cerobong udara, dimana pembangunannya mengacu dalam Keputusan Kepala Bapedal Nomor Kep. 205/ Bapedal/ 07/ 1996 tentang Pedoman Teknis Pengendalian Pencemaran Udara. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui gambaran cerobong di wilayah Propinsi Jawa Tengah dalam 4 level keterlaksanaan pemantauan kualitas udara sebagai bagian kriteria aspek pentaatan dalam PROPER. Metode yang digunakan adalah deskriptif kualitatif. Lingkup penelitian dibatasi pada 30 cerobong boiler industri di Propinsi Jawa Tengah. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa karakteristik cerobong boiler industri di Propinsi Jawa Tengah 66,67% telah memenuhi persyaratan dasar pengambilan contoh udara emisi sebagai salah satu prasyarat pentaaatan lingkungan; 20% industri sudah memiliki lubang sampling tanpa adanya platform atau kelengkapan tambahan; 6,67% sudah lengkap dengan fasilitas tambahan dan hanya 6,67% dari populasi sampel yang belum mempunyai persyaratan dasar pengambilan contoh.
Pengolahan Air Limbah Kadar Garam Tinggi dengan Sistem Lumpur Aktif
Authors: Setianingsih Nanik Indah , Hermawan Danny Widyakusuma , Nilawati Nilawati
Published: April 2020

Air limbah perebusan dari industri kacang garing masih menjadi permasalahan karena mengandung garam yang tinggi. Pada kegiatan penelitian ini dilakukan pengolahan air limbah tersebut dengan sistem lumpur aktif dengan memanfaatkan mikroba yang sudah teradaptasi dengan kadar garam tinggi berasal dari bak equalisasi air limbah tersebut. Percobaan penelitian pengolahan limbah dilakukan dengan dua kondisi yaitu kadar MLVSS (Mixed Liquour Volatile Suspended Solid) awal 1000 mg/L dan 2000 mg/L, pengamatan sampel dilakukan setiap 24 jam selama lima hari. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa terdapat penurunan nilai BOD dan permanganat pada sampel air limbah namun tidak terjadi penurunan untuk parameter nilai klorida. Penurunan nilai BOD adalah sebesar 89,89% dengan perlakuan MLVSS 1000 mg/L dan 91,01 % untuk perlakuan MLVSS 2000 mg/L. Kondisi optimal pada sistem lumpur aktif belum tercapai yang ditunjukkan dari nilai sludge volume masih kurang dari 30%. Sampel hasil pengolahan belum dapat memenuhi baku mutu yang dipersyaratkan dengan nilai BOD 352,2 mg/L, permanganat 213,4 mg/L dan klorida 8347 mg/L.
Inventori Pencemaran Udara Parameter Non-Methane Hidrokarbon (NMHC) di Kabupaten / Kota Propinsi Jawa Tengah
Authors: Julia Sari Ikha Rasti , Fatkhurrahman Januar Arif
Published: April 2020

Laju pertumbuhan industri, transportasi dan aktivitas domestik menyebabkan konsumsi hidrokarbon secara global sebagai bakar mengalami kenaikan tiap tahun. Diperkirakan konsumsi hidrokarbon global di tahun 2019 mencapai 96 juta barel per hari. Hidrokarbon yang dipersyaratkan dalam Peraturan Pemerintah No. 41/1999 tentang Pengendalian Pencemaran Udara adalah sebagai NMHC (Non Methane Hidrocarbon). Konsentrasi NMHC lebih ditujukan untuk membatasi fungsinya sebagai senyawa prekursor ozon. Badan Lingkungan Hidup (BLH) Provinsi Jawa Tengah selama 3 tahun terakhir telah melaksanakan pemantauan rutin udara ambien di 35 kota dan kabupaten di Jawa Tengah. Inventori NMHC ini untuk melihat korelasi pencemar dengan sumber penghasil emisi yang dibedakan atas lokasi yang mewakili pemukiman, industri dan lalu lintas. Hasil analisis menunjukkan paparan konsentrasi NMHC di industri, mempunyai kecenderungan lebih tinggi dibandingkan NMHC di wilayah pemukiman maupun padat lalu lintas.
Kajian Potensi Teknologi Microbial Electrosynthesis Cell untuk Sintesis Senyawa Organik (C1 - C5) dari Gas Karbondioksida
Authors: Yuliasni Rustiana
Published: April 2020

Karbon dioksida dapat direduksi menjadi etanol dan senyawa organik lainnya seperti asetat  dengan cara mengaplikasikan energi listrik dan dengan bantuan bakteri elektroaktif sebagai katalis, suatu teknologi yang dinamakan sebagai Microbial Electrosynthesis Cell (MES). Teknologi ini menjadi sangat menarik untuk diteliti lebih lanjut  karena merupakan upaya  untuk menyimpan energi listrik dari sumber  energi terbarukan seperti  energi panas matahari dan angin, sebagai upaya untuk mereduksi gas CO2dan  sebagai salah satu alternatif teknologi dalam produksi bahan bakar ramah lingkungan (biofuel).  Walaupun demikian, teknologi ini masih tergolong baru,dan penelitian yang ada masih  dalam skala laboratorium karena adanya hambatan-hambatan  untuk aplikasi  teknologi ini dalam skala pilot plant. Oleh karena itu, di dalam kajian iniakan menitik beratkan pada investigasi  secara kuantitatif dengan cara mereview  penelitian-penelitian yang sudah dilakukan selama kurun waktu 10 tahun ini, sehingga dapat dijadikan referensi dalam pengembangan teknologi ini untuk skala yang lebih besar nantinya.
POTENSI TANAMAN AIR SEBAGAI FITOAKUMULATOR LOGAM KROMIUM DALAM LIMBAH CAIR TEKSTIL
Authors: Malik Rizal Awaludin , Surakusumah Wahyu , Hertien Koosbandiah Surtikanti
Published: April 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui potensi tiga jenis tanaman air yaitu Zantedeschia aethiopica, Pontederia lanceolata, Echinodorus palaefolius sebagai fitoakumulator logam kromium. Sumber logam kromium yang digunakan berasal dari limbah cair tekstil yang telah diolah namun masih memiliki kadar krom total yang masih cukup tinggi. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah microcosm constructed wetlands dengan menggunakan pasir dan kerikil sebagai substrat tumbuh. Penelitian dilakukan selama 60 hari dan parameter yang di ukur meliputi akumulasi logam kromium pada tanaman, dan respon morfologis dari tanaman selama dipaparkan dengan limbah yang mengandung logam kromium meliputi nekrosis, klorosis, berat basah dan jumlah helaian daun. Dari hasil yang didapatkan terlihat bahwa penurunan kadar logam kromium dari limbah cair mencapai 99%. Peningkatan jumlah konsentrasi logam kromium tertinggi terdapat pada tanaman Echinodorus palaefolius, peningkatan konsentrasi sebesar 6,12 ppm, sedangkan tanaman Pontederia lanceolata sebesar 2,45, dan pada tanaman zanthedeschia aethiopica sebesar 1,38 ppm. Pada akhir masa penelitian didapatkan data bahwa tanaman echinodorus palaefolius memiliki daya regenerasi yang lebih besar dibanding kedua tanaman uji lainnya, hal ini ditunjukan dengan persentase nekrosis sebesar 1,33% dan klorosis sebesar 0% dan selisih jumlah daun sebesar 0,44, sedangkan tanaman zanthedeschia aethiopica memiliki persentase klorosis 3,6% dan nekrosis 18,55% dan selisih jumlah daun -1,0, dan tanaman pontederia lanceolata 18,22% dan 4,11% memiliki selisih jumlah daun -0,44. Dapat disimpulkan bahwa ketiga tanaman dapat digunakan sebagai akumulator logam kromium, namun tanaman Echinodorus palaefolius memiliki potensi paling tinggi dalam akumulasi logam kromium dari limbah cair tekstil.
PERENCANAAN BAK PENGENDAP PADA SISTEM LUMPUR AKTIF DENGAN METODE GRAFIS
Authors: Indah Nanik , Djarwanti Djarwanti , Romadhon Moch Syarif
Published: April 2020

Pengendapan merupakan suatu cara yang paling sederhana, murah,  dan banyak digunakan dalam proses pengolahan air limbah. Kinerja dari suatu design bak pengendap sangat spesifik untuk setiap jenis limbah, oleh sebab itu jika suatu peralatan sedimentasi dirancang tanpa suatu eksperimen, kinerja yang dihasilkan sering tidak memuaskan. Metode grafis merupakan salah satu cara dalam menentukan desain bak sedimentasi. Metode grafis dapat menghasilkan suatu desain bak pengendap yang tepat sebagaimana sistem komputasi karena ditentukan dengan eksperimen namun dengan cara yang lebih sederhana dan biaya yang murah. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah merancang bak pengendap air limbah dari proses lumpur aktif dengan metode grafis disesuaikan dengan kriteria dasar-dasar perencanaan bak pengendap. Penelitian secara laboratoris dilakukan melalui pengamatan proses pengendapan dalam tabung kaca tinggi 150 cm dan luas penampang 100 cm2. Parameter yang diamati adalah tinggi endapan vs waktu pengendapan. Dengan perhitungan secara grafis didapatkan hasil sebagai berikut. Untuk mengendapkan lumpur dengan kandungan TSS awal 4325 mg/L menjadi 18.000 mg/L dengan debit 300 m3/hari diperlukan HRT (Hydraulic Retention Time) 1,87 jam, Luas area pengendapan 20,83 m2, Volume bak pengendap 31,24 m3. Perkiraan lumpur yang dihasilkan adalah sebesar 98,61 kg TSS/hari.
A retextualização hipertextual em material didático digital para a educação àdistância
Authors: Hissa Débora Liberato Arruda , Araújo Nukácia Meyre Silva
Published: April 2020

Este artigo tem como propósito descrever o processo de retextualização hipertextual por meio do qual o material didático digital(MDD)passa antes de ser postado em um Ambiente Virtual de Aprendizagem(AVA)para os cursos de Educação a Distância(EaD). O corpus de pesquisa é constituído de todas as versões escritas de 25 web aulas produzidas por uma equipe multidisciplinar do curso de Licenciatura em Educação Profissional, Científica e Tecnológica (EPCT). Nomeamos o processo de retextualização hipertextual como uma atividade textual de adaptação e regularização do gênero web aula, produzido tradicionalmente no meio impresso, para o novo suporte textual (o Moodle). Em nosso estudo, vimos que a retextualização hipertextual acontece pelo acréscimo de recursos visuais, auditivos e hipertextuais; pela substituição de textos escritos por textos orais e/ou visuais; e pela reordenação estrutural dos fatores de contextualização típicos de textos didáticos. Ao final do artigo, concluímos que há uma estreita relação entre a retextualização hipertextual em MDDe a transposição didática multimodal, já que, em ambas as atividades, há um movimento de adaptações discursivas e de reelaboração da linguagem em função da esfera enunciativa do Ambiente Virtual de Aprendizagem na qual o gênero é veiculado.
Uso de corretor ortográfico em produções textuais informatizadas: Uma análise processual comparativa
Authors: Kasiorowski Thalia de Oliveira , Nunes Paula Ávila
Published: April 2020

Num contexto de crescente presença tecnológica em cenário educacional, o objeto recortado nesta pesquisa foi o uso que estudantes de graduação fazem do corretor ortográfico em processadores de texto. Propôs-se a calouros dos cursos de Engenharia e de Letras Português, da Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná (UTFPR), no Brasil, a elaboração de um texto, no processador Word, tendo disponível o corretor ortográfico em modo não automático. O processo de escrita foi registrado por meio de softwaresde gravação de tela. Tomaram-se como indicadores específicos para a análise o fato de os estudantes terem corrigido as marcações da ferramenta com base nas sugestões dadas pelo corretor ou em seus conhecimentos, o número de inadequações gráficas ou sintáticas e os erros mecânicos. Constatou-se elevado grau de confiança no corretor, o que pode prejudicar, especialmente, a etapa de revisão textual. Houve, entretanto, casos de usos consideravelmente contextualizados. Em comparação, concluiu-se que o grupo de Letras se destacou por apresentar um nível de consciência maior ao usar a ferramenta. A pesquisa discute, nesse contexto, a imbricação entre linguagem e tecnologia (Cupani 2011; Feenberg 2002; Pinto 2005); as revoluções tecnolinguísticas (Auroux 1992; Coulmas 2014; Fayol 2014; Haas 1996); e a educação em ambiente tecnológico (Sibilia 2012).
Jogos digitais como motivação para o desenvolvimento da leitura
Authors: Pinheiro Regina Cláudia , Lima Francisco Alexandre , Araújo Júlio
Published: April 2020

Neste artigo, objetivamos verificar se e como os jogos digitais motivam jovens que cursam o Ensino Médio em escola pública para a prática de leitura. A fundamentação teórica foi construída com base nos estudos de Bamberger (1991), Solé (1998), Kleiman (1989), Bazerman (2015), Antunes (2000), Prensky (2012) e Burke (2015). A metodologia consiste na aplicação de jogos digitais como auxílio de leitura a um pequeno grupo de alunos de primeiro ano de uma escola pública brasileira, no município de Solonópole, estado do Ceará, com a colaboração de uma professora de Língua Portuguesa. Para tanto, realizamos um estudo de caso com abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa, observando as aulas através de jogos digitais e realizando entrevistas com os alunos. Os resultados demonstram que as aplicações dos jogos digitais, nas condições oferecidas, motivaram os participantes para a prática de leitura.
Сканирующая туннельная микроскопия поверхности нанопленок иттербия и адсорбированных на ней слоев молекул кислорода
Authors: Кузьмин М.В. , Митцев М.А.
Published: April 2020

Using scanning tunneling microscopy, surfaces of Yb-Si(111) и O-Yb-Si(111) structures (the Yb nanofilm thickness is 16 monolayers (6.08 nm)) have been studied for the first time, and the information about the morphology and phase composition of these surfaces has been gained. It is established that before the oxygen adsorption, the nanofilms have a high degree of uniformity in thickness, the groth mechanism which is very similar to the layer-by-layer fashion, and the uniform crystallographic structure. Upon the oxygen adsorption a layer composed of islands of oxygen molecules is formed. The height of this layer is 0.112 nm. It is shown that the morphology of the nanofilm within the surface areas which are covered by the monomolecular oxygen film is significantly changed. At the same time the morphology of surface areas which are not occupied by adsorbed layer has still remained intact.
Data Mining and Content Analysis of the Chinese Social Media Platform Weibo During the Early COVID-19 Outbreak: Retrospective Observational Infoveillance Study
Authors: Li Jiawei , Xu Qing , Cuomo Raphael , Purushothaman Vidya , Mackey Tim
Published: April 2020

Background

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, which began in Wuhan, China in December 2019, is rapidly spreading worldwide with over 1.9 million cases as of mid-April 2020. Infoveillance approaches using social media can help characterize disease distribution and public knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors critical to the early stages of an outbreak.

Objective

The aim of this study is to conduct a quantitative and qualitative assessment of Chinese social media posts originating in Wuhan City on the Chinese microblogging platform Weibo during the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Methods

Chinese-language messages from Wuhan were collected for 39 days between December 23, 2019, and January 30, 2020, on Weibo. For quantitative analysis, the total daily cases of COVID-19 in Wuhan were obtained from the Chinese National Health Commission, and a linear regression model was used to determine if Weibo COVID-19 posts were predictive of the number of cases reported. Qualitative content analysis and an inductive manual coding approach were used to identify parent classifications of news and user-generated COVID-19 topics.

Results

A total of 115,299 Weibo posts were collected during the study time frame consisting of an average of 2956 posts per day (minimum 0, maximum 13,587). Quantitative analysis found a positive correlation between the number of Weibo posts and the number of reported cases from Wuhan, with approximately 10 more COVID-19 cases per 40 social media posts (P<.001). This effect size was also larger than what was observed for the rest of China excluding Hubei Province (where Wuhan is the capital city) and held when comparing the number of Weibo posts to the incidence proportion of cases in Hubei Province. Qualitative analysis of 11,893 posts during the first 21 days of the study period with COVID-19-related posts uncovered four parent classifications including Weibo discussions about the causative agent of the disease, changing epidemiological characteristics of the outbreak, public reaction to outbreak control and response measures, and other topics. Generally, these themes also exhibited public uncertainty and changing knowledge and attitudes about COVID-19, including posts exhibiting both protective and higher-risk behaviors.

Conclusions

The results of this study provide initial insight into the origins of the COVID-19 outbreak based on quantitative and qualitative analysis of Chinese social media data at the initial epicenter in Wuhan City. Future studies should continue to explore the utility of social media data to predict COVID-19 disease severity, measure public reaction and behavior, and evaluate effectiveness of outbreak communication.
Advanced Symptom Management System for Patients with Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (ASyMSmeso): Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)
Authors: Maguire Roma , Connaghan John , Arber Anne , Klepacz Naomi , Blyth Kevin G , McPhelim John , Murray Paul , Rupani Hitasha , Chauhan Anoop , Williams Peter , McNaughton Laura , Woods Kirstie , Moylan Anne
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) have a life-limiting illness and short prognosis and experience many debilitating symptoms from early in the illness. Innovations such as remote symptom monitoring are needed to enable patients to maintain wellbeing and manage symptoms in a proactive and timely manner. The Advanced Symptom Management System (ASyMS) has been successfully used to monitor symptoms associated with cancer.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the feasibility and acceptability of using an ASyMS adapted for use by patients with MPM, called ASyMSmeso, enabling the remote monitoring of symptoms using a smartphone.

METHODS

This was a convergent mixed methods study using patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at key time points over a period of 2-3 months with 18 patients. The Sheffield Profile for Assessment and Referral for Care (SPARC), Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) measure for eHealth, and Lung Cancer Symptom Scale-Mesothelioma (LCSS-Meso) were the PROMs used in the study. Patients were also asked to complete a daily symptom questionnaire on a smartphone throughout the study. At the end of the study, semistructured interviews with 11 health professionals, 8 patients, and 3 carers were conducted to collect their experience with using ASyMSmeso.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients with MPM agreed to participate in the study (33.3% response rate). The completion rates of study PROMs were high (97.2%-100%), and completion rates of the daily symptom questionnaire were also high, at 88.5%. There were no significant changes in quality of life, as measured by LCSS-Meso. There were statistically significant improvements in the SPARC psychological need domain (P=.049) and in the “Usefulness” domain of the TAM (P=.022). End-of-study interviews identified that both patients and clinicians found the system quick and easy to use. For patients, in particular, the system provided reassurance about symptom experience and the feeling of being listened to. The clinicians largely viewed the system as feasible and acceptable, and areas that were mentioned included the early management of symptoms and connectivity between patients and clinicians, leading to enhanced communication.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that remote monitoring and management of symptoms of people with MPM using a mobile phone are feasible and acceptable. The evidence supports future trials using remote symptom monitoring to support patients with MPM at home.
Investigating the likely association between genetic ancestry and COVID-19 manifestation (Preprint)
Authors: Das Ranajit , Ghate Sudeep D
Published: April 2020

UNSTRUCTURED

The novel coronavirus 2019-nCoV/SARS-CoV-2 infection has shown discernible variability across the globe. While in some countries people are recovering relatively quicker, in others, recovery times have been comparatively longer and numbers of those succumbing to it high. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the likely association between an individual’s ancestry and the extent of COVID-19 manifestation employing Europeans as the case study. We employed 10,215 ancient and modern genomes across the globe assessing 597,573 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r) between various ancestry proportions of European genomes and COVID-19 death/recovery ratio was calculated and its significance was statistically evaluated. We found significant positive correlation (p=0.03) between European Mesolithic hunter gatherers (WHG) ancestral fractions and COVID-19 death/recovery ratio and a marginally significant negative correlation (p=0.06) between Neolithic Iranian ancestry fractions and COVID-19 death/recovery ratio. We further identified 404 immune response related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) by comparing publicly available 753 genomes from various European countries against 838 genomes from various Eastern Asian countries in a genome wide association study (GWAS). Prominently, we identified that SNPs associated with Interferon stimulated antiviral response, Interferon-stimulated gene 15 mediated antiviral mechanism and 2′-5′ oligoadenylate synthase mediated antiviral response show large differences in allele frequencies between Europeans and East Asians. Overall, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the likely association between genetic ancestry and COVID-19 manifestation. While our current findings improve our overall understanding of the COVID-19, we note that the development of effective therapeutics will benefit immensely from more detailed analyses of individual genomic sequence data from COVID-19 patients of varied ancestries.
Rapid Utilization of Telehealth in a Comprehensive Cancer Center as a Response to COVID-19: Cross-Sectional Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Lonergan Peter E , Washington III Samuel L , Branagan Linda , Gleason Nathaniel , Pruthi Raj S , Carroll Peter R , Odisho Anobel Y
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

The emergence of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic in March 2020 created unprecedented challenges in the provision of scheduled ambulatory cancer care. As a result, there has been a renewed focus on video-based telehealth consultations as a means to continue ambulatory care.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to analyze the change in video visit volume at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Comprehensive Cancer Center in response to COVID-19 and compare patient demographics and appointment data from January 1, 2020, and in the 11 weeks after the transition to video visits.

METHODS

Patient demographics and appointment data (dates, visit types, and departments) were extracted from the electronic health record reporting database. Video visits were performed using a HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act)-compliant video conferencing platform with a pre-existing workflow.

RESULTS

In 17 departments and divisions at the UCSF Cancer Center, 2284 video visits were performed in the 11 weeks before COVID-19 changes were implemented (mean 208, SD 75 per week) and 12,946 video visits were performed in the 11-week post–COVID-19 period (mean 1177, SD 120 per week). The proportion of video visits increased from 7%-18% to 54%-72%, between the pre– and post–COVID-19 periods without any disparity based on race/ethnicity, primary language, or payor.

CONCLUSIONS

In a remarkably brief period of time, we rapidly scaled the utilization of telehealth in response to COVID-19 and maintained access to complex oncologic care at a time of social distancing.
Digital Response During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Saudi Arabia (Preprint)
Authors: Hassounah Marwah , Raheel Hafsa , Alhefzi Mohammed
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

The first case of COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia was confirmed on March 3, 2020. Saudi Arabia, like many other countries worldwide, implemented lockdown of most public and private services in response to the pandemic and established population movement restrictions nationwide. With the implementation of these strict mitigation regulations, technology and digital solutions have enabled the provision of essential services.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this paper is to highlight how Saudi Arabia has used digital technology during the COVID-19 pandemic in the domains of public health, health care services, education, telecommunication, commerce, and risk communication.

METHODS

We documented the use of digital technology in Saudi Arabia during the pandemic using publicly available official announcements, press briefings and releases, news clips, published data, peer-reviewed literature, and professional discussions.

RESULTS

Saudi Arabia’s government and private sectors combined developed and launched approximately 19 apps and platforms that serve public health functions and provide health care services. A detailed account of each is provided. Education processes continued using an established electronic learning infrastructure with a promising direction toward wider adoption in the future. Telecommunication companies exhibited smooth collaboration as well as innovative initiatives to support ongoing efforts. Risk communication activities using social media, websites, and SMS text messaging followed best practice guides.

CONCLUSIONS

The Saudi Vision 2030 framework, released in 2017, has paved the path for digital transformation. COVID-19 enabled the promotion and testing of this transition. In Saudi Arabia, the use of artificial intelligence in integrating different data sources during future outbreaks could be further explored. Also, decreasing the number of mobile apps and merging their functions could increase and facilitate their use.
Understanding Economic and Health Factors Impacting the Spread of COVID-19 Disease (Preprint)
Authors: Farseev Aleksandr , Chu-Farseeva Yu-Yi , Qi Yang , Loo Daron Benjamin
Published: April 2020

UNSTRUCTURED

The rapid spread of the Coronavirus 2019 disease (COVID-19) had drastically impacted life all over the world. While some economies are actively recovering from this pestilence, others are experiencing fast and consistent disease spread, compelling governments to impose social distancing measures that have put a halt on routines, especially in densely-populated areas.

Aiming at bringing more light on key economic and public health factors affecting the disease spread, this initial study utilizes a quantitative statistical analysis based on the most recent publicly-available COVID-19 datasets.

The study had shown and explained multiple significant relationships between the COVID-19 data and other country-level statistics. We have also identified and statistically profiled four major country-level clusters with relation to different aspects of COVID-19 development and country-level economic and health indicators.

Specifically, this study has identified potential COVID-19 under-reporting traits as well as various economic factors that impact COVID-19 Diagnosis, Reporting, and Treatment. Based on the country clusters, we have also described the four disease development scenarios, which are tightly knit to country-level economic and public health factors. Finally, we have highlighted the potential limitation of reporting and measuring COVID-19 and provided recommendations on further in-depth quantitative research.
Comparing Methods of Recruiting Spanish-Preferring Smokers in the United States: Findings from a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Medina-Ramirez Patricia , Calixte-Civil Patricia , Meltzer Lauren R , Brandon Karen O , Martinez Ursula , Sutton Steven K , Meade Cathy D , Byrne Margaret M , Brandon Thomas H , Simmons Vani N
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

There is a pressing need to address the unacceptable disparities and underrepresentation of racial and ethnic minority groups, including Hispanics or Latinxs, in smoking cessation trials.

OBJECTIVE

Given the lack of research on recruitment strategies for this population, this study aims to assess effective recruitment methods based on enrollment and cost.

METHODS

Recruitment and enrollment data were collected from a nationwide randomized controlled trial (RCT) of a Spanish-language smoking cessation intervention (N=1417). The effectiveness of each recruitment strategy was evaluated by computing the cost per participant (CPP), which is the ratio of direct cost over the number enrolled. More effective strategies yielded lower CPPs. Demographic and smoking-related characteristics of participants recruited via the two most effective strategies were also compared (n=1307).

RESULTS

Facebook was the most effective method (CPP=US $74.12), followed by TV advertisements (CPP=US $191.31), whereas public bus interior card advertising was the least effective method (CPP=US $642.50). Participants recruited via Facebook had lower average age (P=.008) and had spent fewer years in the United States (P<.001). Among the participants recruited via Facebook, a greater percentage of individuals had at least a high school education (P<.001) and an annual income above US $10,000 (P<.001). In addition, a greater percentage of individuals were employed (P<.001) and foreign born (P=.003). In terms of subethnicity, among the subjects recruited via Facebook, a lower percentage of individuals were of Mexican origin (P<.001) and a greater percentage of individuals were of Central American (P=.02), South American (P=.01), and Cuban (P<.001) origin.

CONCLUSIONS

Facebook was the most effective method for recruiting Hispanic or Latinx smokers in the United States for this RCT. However, using multiple methods was necessary to recruit a more diverse sample of Spanish-preferring Hispanic or Latinx smokers.
An Internet-Based Intervention Augmented With a Diet and Physical Activity Consultation to Decrease the Risk of Dementia in At-Risk Adults in a Primary Care Setting: Pragmatic Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Anstey Kaarin J , Cherbuin Nicolas , Kim Sarang , McMaster Mitchell , D'Este Catherine , Lautenschlager Nicola , Rebok George , McRae Ian , Torres Susan J , Cox Kay L , Pond Constance Dimity
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

There is a need to develop interventions to reduce the risk of dementia in the community by addressing lifestyle factors and chronic diseases over the adult life course.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate a multidomain dementia risk reduction intervention, Body Brain Life in General Practice (BBL-GP), targeting at-risk adults in primary care.

METHODS

A pragmatic, parallel, three-arm randomized trial involving 125 adults aged 18 years or older (86/125, 68.8% female) with a BMI of ≥25 kg/m2 or a chronic health condition recruited from general practices was conducted. The arms included (1) BBL-GP, a web-based intervention augmented with an in-person diet and physical activity consultation; (2) a single clinician–led group, Lifestyle Modification Program (LMP); and (3) a web-based control. The primary outcome was the Australian National University Alzheimer Disease Risk Index Short Form (ANU-ADRI-SF).

RESULTS

Baseline assessments were conducted on 128 participants. A total of 125 participants were randomized to 3 groups (BBL-GP=42, LMP=41, and control=42). At immediate, week 18, week 36, and week 62 follow-ups, the completion rates were 43% (18/42), 57% (24/42), 48% (20/42), and 48% (20/42), respectively, for the BBL-GP group; 71% (29/41), 68% (28/41), 68% (28/41), and 51% (21/41), respectively, for the LMP group; and 62% (26/42), 69% (29/42), 60% (25/42), and 60% (25/42), respectively, for the control group. The primary outcome of the ANU-ADRI-SF score was lower for the BBL-GP group than the control group at all follow-ups. These comparisons were all significant at the 5% level for estimates adjusted for baseline differences (immediate: difference in means −3.86, 95% CI −6.81 to −0.90, P=.01; week 18: difference in means −4.05, 95% CI −6.81 to −1.28, P<.001; week 36: difference in means −4.99, 95% CI −8.04 to −1.94, P<.001; and week 62: difference in means −4.62, 95% CI −7.62 to −1.62, P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A web-based multidomain dementia risk reduction program augmented with allied health consultations administered within the general practice context can reduce dementia risk exposure for at least 15 months. This study was limited by a small sample size, and replication on a larger sample with longer follow-up will strengthen the results.

CLINICALTRIAL

Australian clinical trials registration number (ACTRN): 12616000868482; https://anzctr.org.au/ACTRN12616000868482.aspx.
Mobile Health App With Social Media to Support Self-Management for Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease: Prospective Randomized Controlled Study (Preprint)
Authors: Li Wen-Yi , Chiu Fu-Chun , Zeng Jyun-Kai , Li Yao-Wei , Huang Su-Hua , Yeh Hui-Chin , Cheng Bor-Wen , Yang Feng-Jung
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health burden. Self-management plays a key role in improving modifiable risk factors.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of wearable devices, a health management platform, and social media at improving the self-management of CKD, with the goal of establishing a new self-management intervention model.

METHODS

In a 90-day prospective experimental study, a total of 60 people with CKD at stages 1-4 were enrolled in the intervention group (n=30) and control group (n=30). All participants were provided with wearable devices that collected exercise-related data. All participants maintained dietary diaries using a smartphone app. All dietary and exercise information was then uploaded to a health management platform. Suggestions about diet and exercise were provided to the intervention group only, and a social media group was created to inspire the participants in the intervention group. Participants’ self-efficacy and self-management questionnaire scores, Kidney Disease Quality of Life scores, body composition, and laboratory examinations before and after the intervention were compared between the intervention and control groups.

RESULTS

A total of 49 participants completed the study (25 in the intervention group and 24 in the control group); 74% of the participants were men and the mean age was 51.22 years. There were no differences in measured baseline characteristics between the groups except for educational background. After the intervention, the intervention group showed significantly higher scores for self-efficacy (mean 171.28, SD 22.92 vs mean 142.21, SD 26.36; P<.001) and self-management (mean 54.16, SD 6.71 vs mean 47.58, SD 6.42; P=.001). Kidney Disease Quality of Life scores were also higher in the intervention group (mean 293.16, SD 34.21 vs mean 276.37, SD 32.21; P=.02). The number of steps per day increased in the intervention group (9768.56 in week 1 and 11,389.12 in week 12). The estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of the intervention group was higher than that of the control group (mean 72.47, SD 24.28 vs mean 59.69, SD 22.25 mL/min/1.73m2; P=.03) and the decline in eGFR was significantly slower in the intervention group (–0.56 vs –4.58 mL/min/1.73m2). There were no differences in body composition between groups postintervention.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of wearable devices, a health management platform, and social media support not only strengthened self-efficacy and self-management but also improved quality of life and a slower eGFR decline in people with CKD at stages 1-4. These results outline a new self-management model to promote healthy lifestyle behaviors for patients with CKD.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04617431; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04617431
AKI!Now Initiative: Recommendations for Awareness, Recognition, and Management of AKI
Authors: Liu Kathleen D. , Goldstein Stuart L. , Vijayan Anitha , Parikh Chirag R. , Kashani Kianoush , Okusa Mark D. , Agarwal Anupam , Cerdá Jorge ,   on behalf of the AKI!Now Initiative of the American Society of Nephrology
Published: April 2020

The American Society of Nephrology has established a new initiative, AKI!Now, with the goal of promoting excellence in the prevention and treatment of AKI by building a foundational program that transforms education and delivery of AKI care, aiming to reduce morbidity and associated mortality and to improve long-term outcomes. In this article, we describe our current efforts to improve early recognition and management involving inclusive interdisciplinary collaboration between providers, patients, and their families; discuss the ongoing need to change some of our current AKI paradigms and diagnostic methods; and provide specific recommendations to improve AKI recognition and care. In the hospital and the community, AKI is a common and increasingly frequent condition that generates risks of adverse events and high costs. Unfortunately, patients with AKI may frequently have received less than optimal quality of care. New classifications have facilitated understanding of AKI incidence and its impact on outcomes, but they are not always well aligned with AKI pathophysiology. Despite ongoing research efforts, treatments to promote or hasten kidney recovery remain ineffective. To avoid progression, the current approach to AKI emphasizes the promotion of early recognition and timely response. However, a lack of awareness of the importance of early recognition and treatment among health care team members and the heterogeneity of approaches within the health care teams assessing the patient remains a major challenge. Early identification is further complicated by differences in settings where AKI occurs (the community or the hospital), and by differences in patient populations and cultures between the intensive care unit and ward environments. To address these obstacles, we discuss the need to improve education at all levels of care and to generate specific guidance on AKI evaluation and management, including the development of a widely applicable education and an AKI management toolkit, engaging hospital administrators to incorporate AKI as a quality initiative, and raising awareness of AKI as a complication of other disease processes.
Fractura de cadera en adultos mayores: Impacto del tratamiento quirúrgico oportuno en la morbimortalidad
Authors: Zaragoza Sosa Daniela , González Laureani Jesús , King Martínez Ana Cristina
Published: April 2020

Introduction: Hip fracture, may occur in the femoral head, neck or in the intertrochanteric line. It is one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality in elderly patients and it affects the physical, mental, functional and social equilibrium of these patients. Up to 50% of patients with hip fracture die in the first six months after the injury and many of those who survive don’t recover their previous level of independence and functionality. Early surgical resolution diminishes mortality and complications. Every two days that the surgery is postponed doubles the risk of death. Case report study: A 74-year-old female patient who presented a fall from her own height, is rendered incapable of walking and presents progressive pain in her right hip. She consults an orthopedic doctor for examination 42 days after the fall. Physical examination: right pelvic lower limb with an external rotation and a 1 cm shortness, hip mobility arches limited by pain. Muscle group strength was not examined because of the pain. An AP x-ray of the pelvis was performed that showed a simple trace at subcapital level on the right hip. A total arthroplasty of the right hip was performed 52 days after the patient’s fall. Conclusions: Hip fracture is a common problem in elderly patients and is associated with a high morbimortality. It is important to handle these cases early to diminish the risk of complications and mortality.
ANALISIS PENGUNGKAPAN UNIVERSITY SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY DI UIN MAULANA MALIK IBRAHIM MALANG
Authors: Lubis Noval Gibran , Wahyuni Endang Dwi , Zubaidah Siti
Published: April 2020

The purpose of this research is to analyze the implementation of green accounting based on university social responsibility UIN Maulana Malik Ibrahim Malang. Respondents in this study were 43 employees at the Maulana Malik Ibrahim State Islamic University Malang. Data acquisition techniques in this study are questionnaires and documentation. This research is descriptive. The results indicate that 1) environmental awareness has a tendency for data with a percentage of 74.00% or in the good category. 2) environmental involvement has tendency of data with percentage 69.09% or mauk in good category. 3) environmental reporting has a 55.58% data trend or is categorized as sufficient. 4) environmental audits also have tendency of data with percentage 59,67% or included in enough category.
Basso Continuo in New Spain
Authors: Miguel Espinoza Chavez
Published: April 2020

Basso Continuo in New Spain
Ultrasound-microwave assisted extraction of flavonoid compounds from Eucommia ulmoides leaves and an evaluation of their antioxidant and antibacterial activities
Authors: Wang Xiang , Peng Mi-Jun , Wang Zhi-Hong , Yang Qiu-Ling , Peng Sheng
Published: April 2020

Ultrasound/microwave assisted extraction (UMAE) of flavonoid compounds from Eucommia ulmoides leaves was studied and the extraction conditions were optimized by the Plackett-Burman design (PBD) method combined with the Box-Behnken design (BBD). The antioxidant and antibacterial activities of the flavonoid extract were investigated. The results show that the optimal conditions were an ethanol concentration of 41%, microwave power of 178 W and an ultrasound extraction time of 26 min. Under these conditions, the yield of the flavonoid compounds was 2.454%?0.230%, which was higher than that after direct solvent extraction, ultrasound extraction and microwave extraction. The results of in vitro antioxidant assays showed that the flavonoid extract had scavenging capacity for DPPH, ABTS and hydroxyl radicals, with corresponding IC50 values of 30.76 mg/L, 21.09 mg/L, 248.4 mg/L, respectively. In addition, this extract exhibited strong antibacterial activity on Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella typhimurium.
The Influence of Audit Committee Expertise on Firms' Internal Controls: Evidence from Mergers and Acquisitions
Authors: Sterin Mikhail
Published: April 2020

SYNOPSIS

This study examines how audit committee expertise influences firms' key internal control scoping decisions. Using a unique merger and acquisition (M&A) setting where the internal control audit is voluntary, I study whether audit committee expertise is associated with the deferral of internal control testing for acquired firms. I also examine whether this internal control decision provides a channel through which audit committee expertise leads to positive financial reporting outcomes. I find that audit committees with greater specialized expertise (industry and legal) are less likely to opt-out of first-year target internal control over financial reporting (ICFR) integration. In my second analysis, I find that target ICFR integration provides an indirect path through which industry and legal expertise reduce the likelihood of misstatement. This study contributes to the audit committee and internal controls literature by providing evidence on audit committee influence over firms' internal control decisions and related financial reporting outcomes.

JEL Classifications: M41; M42; M48.

Data Availability: The data are publicly available from the sources identified in the paper.
Pervasive Small RNAs in Cardiometabolic Research: Great Potential Accompanied by Biological and Technical Barriers
Authors: Michell Danielle L. , Zhao Shilin , Allen Ryan M. , Sheng Quanhu , Vickers Kasey C.
Published: April 2020

Advances in small RNA sequencing have revealed the enormous diversity of small noncoding RNA (sRNA) classes in mammalian cells. At this point, most investigators in diabetes are aware of the success of microRNA (miRNA) research and appreciate the importance of posttranscriptional gene regulation in glycemic control. Nevertheless, miRNAs are just one of multiple classes of sRNAs and likely represent only a minor fraction of sRNA sequences in a given cell. Despite the widespread appreciation of sRNAs, very little research into non-miRNA sRNA function has been completed, likely due to some major barriers that present unique challenges for study. To emphasize the importance of sRNA research in cardiometabolic diseases, we highlight the success of miRNAs and competitive endogenous RNAs in cholesterol and glucose metabolism. Moreover, we argue that sequencing studies have demonstrated that miRNAs are just the tip of the iceberg for sRNAs. We are likely standing at the precipice of immense discovery for novel sRNA-mediated gene regulation in cardiometabolic diseases. To realize this potential, we must first address critical barriers with an open mind and refrain from viewing non-miRNA sRNA function through the lens of miRNAs, as they likely have their own set of distinct regulatory factors and functional mechanisms.
Leptin: Less Is More
Authors: Zhao Shangang , Kusminski Christine M. , Elmquist Joel K. , Scherer Philipp E.
Published: April 2020

The successful use of leptin for the treatment of individuals with lipodystrophy and leptin deficiency is well established. However, pharmacological approaches of leptin therapy for the treatment of diet-induced obesity have been ineffective. There is ample room for a better understanding of the much famed “leptin resistance” phenomenon. Our recent data in this area prompt us to call for a conceptual shift. This shift entails a model in which a reduction of bioactive leptin levels in the context of obesity triggers a high degree of leptin sensitization and improved leptin action, both centrally and peripherally. Put another way, hyperleptinemia per se causes leptin resistance and associated metabolic disorders. In this perspective, we briefly discuss the underlying conceptual steps that led us to explore partial leptin reduction as a viable therapeutic avenue. We hope this discussion will contribute to potential future applications of partial leptin reduction therapy for the treatment of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Sex Disparities in Cardiovascular Outcome Trials of Populations With Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Clemens Kristin K. , Woodward Mark , Neal Bruce , Zinman Bernard
Published: April 2020

BACKGROUND

Sex differences have been described in diabetes cardiovascular outcome trials (CVOTs).

PURPOSE

We systematically reviewed for baseline sex differences in cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and CV protection therapy in diabetes CVOTs.

DATA SOURCES

Randomized placebo-controlled trials examining the effect of diabetes medications on major adverse cardiovascular events in people ≥18 years of age with type 2 diabetes.

STUDY SELECTION

Included trials reported baseline sex-specific CV risks and use of CV protection therapy.

DATA EXTRACTION

Two reviewers independently abstracted study data.

DATA SYNTHESIS

We included five CVOTs with 46,606 participants. We summarized sex-specific data using mean differences (MDs) and relative risks (RRs) and pooled estimates using random effects meta-analysis. There were fewer women than men in included trials (28.5–35.8% women). Women more often had stroke (RR 1.28; 95% CI 1.09, 1.50), heart failure (RR 1.30; 95% CI 1.21,1.40), and chronic kidney disease (RR 1.33; 95% CI 1.17; 1.51). They less often used statins (RR 0.90; 95% CI 0.86, 0.93), aspirin (RR 0.82; 95% CI 0.71, 0.95), and β-blockers (RR 0.93; 95% CI 0.88, 0.97) and had a higher systolic blood pressure (MD 1.66 mmHg; 95% CI 0.90, 2.41), LDL cholesterol (MD 0.34 mmol/L; 95% CI 0.29, 0.39), and hemoglobin A1c (MD 0.11%; 95% CI 0.09, 0.14 [1.2 mmol/mol; 1.0, 1.5]) than men.

LIMITATIONS

We could not carry out subgroup analyses due to the small number of studies. Our study is not generalizable to low CV risk groups nor to patients in routine care.

CONCLUSIONS

There were baseline sex disparities in diabetes CVOTs. We suggest efforts to recruit women into trials and promote CV management across the sexes.