bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can a Complex Vocational Rehabilitation Intervention Be Delivered With Fidelity? Fidelity Assessment in the Fresh Feasibility Trial
Authors: Holmes Jain Anne , Fletcher-Smith Joanna Clare , Merchán-Baeza Jose Antionio , Phillips Julie , Radford Kathryn
Published: July 2020

Background:Determining whether complex rehabilitation interventions are delivered with fidelity is important as differences can occur between sites, therapists delivering the intervention and over time; threatening trial outcomes and increasing the risk of Type II and Type III errors. Aims: to (1) evaluate implementation fidelity of vocational rehabilitation delivered in FRESH, a multi-centre feasibility randomised controlled trial; and (2) understand factors affecting delivery. Methods:Mixed methods evaluation. Fidelity was measured quantitatively using intervention case report forms, fidelity checklists and clinical records. Qualitative data from mentoring records, interviews with the intervention therapists, participants and their employers and NHS staff at each site explored moderators of implementation fidelity. The quantitative and qualitativedata informed data collection tools and analysis. Data were examined against a logic model and benchmarked against an earlier cohort study. Results:Analysis of 38 clinical records (one per participant), 699 content CRFs (42-248 per therapist) and 12 fidelity checklists suggest intervention was delivered as intended. The core intervention process was followed in each case despite therapist variation. Qualitative data from clinical records, fidelity checklists, 183 mentoring records and 38 interviews (4 therapists, 15 trial participants, 6 employers and 13 NHS staff) explained factors affecting intervention fidelity. Fidelity moderators were similar across sites. Facilitators included therapists’ community rehabilitation experience, expert mentoring, and ability to individually tailor intervention. Barriers involved a lack of access to NHS systems no backfill and limited line-manager support. Factors that both helped or hindered intervention delivery were effective communication with participants, intervention acceptability, participants’ changing needs and interagency working. Different fidelity measures answered different questions. Fidelity checklists determined whether intervention processes were followed and explained moderators. Interviews provided insights into acceptability. Adherence was determined by content forms. Mentoring records described implementation barriers and how they were overcome.Conclusions:Mixed methods fidelity assessments enable trialists to identify factors likely to affect intervention fidelity in a definitive trial and longer-term clinical implementation. Mentoring provided insight into engagement and fidelity deviations that could be addressed in real-time, facilitating fidelity and offering a window on trial processesTrial registration: ISRCTN Registry, ISRCTN38581822 (Registered: 02/01/2014) (https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN38581822)
Motherhood and Decision-Making Among Women Living with HIV: A Systematic Review with Qualitative Research Synthesis.
Authors: Huertas-Zurriaga Ariadna , Palmieri Patrick Albert , Edwards Joan E. , Cesario Sandra K. , Alonso-Fernandez Sergio , Pardell-Dominguez Lidia , Dominguez-Cancino Karen A. , Leyva-Moral Juan M.
Published: July 2020

Objective: To explain the reproductive decision-making process of women living with HIV according to their experiences.Design: Systematic review with qualitative research synthesis. Studies were assessed with the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme and the JBI Checklist for Qualitative Research. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO, and the results reported in adherence with the PRISMA statement and the ENTREQ recommendations.Setting: Studies with qualitative data from member countries of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development were selected to maintain consistency in the conditions of women living with HIV, including socioeconomic, human rights, and access to health services.Participants: Studies published in journals from 1995 to 2019 with qualitative data about reproductive decision-making among women living with HIV were searched in multiple databases, including CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE (through PubMed), Scopus, Social Science Citation Index, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and the Spanish databases Cuidatge, Cuiden Enfispo, and SciELO.Results: From the 4,198 articles identified and assessed, 18 were included for analysis and synthesis with 1,333 participants from 10 countries. Three meta‐categories were constructed from 15 themes that emerged from 45 subthemes to give new meaning to the phenomena of reproductive decision-making for women living with HIV as 1) Shattered identity, 2) Barriers, inequities, and misinformation, and 3) Coping, resiliency, and support.Key Conclusions: Reproductive decision-making is a complex process with multiple challenges that women living with HIV encounter with knowledge deficiencies and limited social support. Decisions need to be taken judiciously by women living with HIV in collaboration with clinicians within the context of a supportive health system. Implications for practice: An integrated approach to care with comprehensive multidisciplinary counseling are needed to support women living with HIV as they engage in reproductive decision-making. Clinicians require professional development as well as evidence-based clinical guidelines and educational resources to support person-centered care for these women, and their families.
Identification of Novel Hub Genes Through Expression Profiles Analysis in Adrenocortical Carcinoma
Authors: Yao Chenhe , Zhao Xiaoling , Shang Xuemeng , Jia Binghan , Dou Shuaijie , Ye Weiliang , Yang Yuemei
Published: July 2020

Background: Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a heterogeneous and rare malignant tumor associated with a poor prognosis. The molecular mechanisms of ACC remain elusive and more accurate biomarkers for the prediction of prognosis are needed.Methods: In this study, integrative profiling analyses were performed to identify novel hub genes in ACC to provide promising targets for future investigation. Three gene expression profiling datasets in the GEO database were used for the identification of overlapped differentially expressed genes (DEGs) following the criteria of adj.P.Value<0.05 and |log2 FC|>0.5 in ACC. Novel hub genes were screened out following a series of processes: the retrieval of DEGs with no known associations with ACC on Pubmed, then the cross-validation of expression values and significant associations with overall survival in the GEPIA2 and starBase databases, and finally the prediction of gene-tumor association in the GeneCards database.Results: Four novel hub genes were identified and two of them, TPX2 and RACGAP1, were positively correlated with the staging. Interestingly, co-expression analysis revealed that the association between TPX2 and RACGAP1 was the strongest and that the expression of HOXA5 was almost completely independent of that of RACGAP1 and TPX2. Furthermore, the PPI network consisting of four novel genes and seed genes in ACC revealed that HOXA5, TPX2, and RACGAP1 were all associated with TP53. Conclusions: This study identified four novel hub genes (TPX2, RACHAP1, HXOA5 and FMO2) that may play crucial roles in the tumorigenesis and the prediction of prognosis of ACC.
TEK Suppresses Lung Adenocarcinoma Cell Phenotypes by Interacting with miR-19a-3p
Authors: Peng Tao , Yang Fan , Sun Zhanwen , Yan Jie
Published: July 2020

Background: We identified TEK as a key gene that that participates in lung adenocarcinoma cell migration and adhesion, and miR-19a-3p a potential upstream regulator of TEK. Both TEK and miR-19a-3p have been reported during lung cancer development. However, how TEK/miR-19a-3p interactome regulates lung adenocarcinoma remains unraveled. We herein aim to report a novel TEK/miR-19a-3p interactome in lung adenocarcinoma.Methods: The mRNA and protein expression of TEK in tissues and cell lines were determined using qPCR and Western blot, respectively. CCK-8 assay, EDU assay, flow-cytometry cell apoptosis assay, scratch assay, and cell-to-extracellular matrix adhesion assay were performed to detect the proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and adhesion of A549 and H1975 cell lines. Results：Both mRNA and protein levels of TEK were down-regulated in tumor tissues and cell lines. Compared with the control, the transfection of TEK overexpression plasmids into H1975 and A549 cells led to the significant inhibition of cancerous phenotypes. On the other hand, miR-19a-3p promoted lung adenocarcinoma cancerous cell phenotypes by downregulating TEK.Conclusions: TEK can be a potential LUAD tumor suppressor by interacting with miR-19a-3p. This novel interactome can be used as a novel therapy target for LUAD.
Observational Study of Compliance With Infection Control Practices Among Healthcare Workers in Subsidized and Private Residential Care Homes
Authors: Au Jessie Kit Ling , Suen Lorna Kwai Ping , Lam Simon Ching
Published: July 2020

Background
The elderly population in Hong Kong is rapidly growing, and the need for residential care homes (RCHs) is increasing. The frail and the vulnerable elderly population is prone to being infected with micro-organisms as the immunity system begins to deteriorate. Furthermore, the residents in RCHs are at high risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) due to the confined living environment and individual co-morbidities. In relation to this, infection control practice (ICP) is the crucial and effective prevention of HAIs. This study aimed to observe the daily ICP of healthcare workers in RCHs settings.
Methods
An observational study was conducted to observe daily ICP among healthcare workers in private and subsidized RCHs. Each RCH was separated into different units by location (common area and bedroom area) and nature of residents for successive days. The ICP episodes were observed until 200 opportunities in each unit. The ICP episodes were recorded by an electronic tool called “eRub,” which is the checklist of ICP based on international guidelines.
Results
The most frequent observed ICP episodes were hand hygiene (n = 1053), the use of gloves (n = 1053), and respiratory protection (n = 1053). The overall compliance of hand hygiene was poor, which only 15% performed during the “five moments for hand hygiene.” Furthermore, the observations showed that 77.9% improperly performed the use of gloves, and 31.8% failed to wear a mask during the care provision for the elderly. However, the results showed that most healthcare workers can wear the mask in a proper way when they should. Generally, the personal care workers were the worst in hand hygiene and use of gloves compared with the other types of healthcare workers.
Conclusions
Despite the fact that the practice of hand hygiene, the use of gloves and respiratory protection were the important elements of ICP, overall compliance to these elements was still poor. Personal care workers had the most frequent contact with the residents, but they had the worst compliance rate. Hence, continued monitoring and training among healthcare workers is needed, particularly personal care workers, in this healthcare service setting.
A Simple Noninvasive Model to Predict Significant Fibrosis in Children With Chronic Hepatitis B
Authors: Zhang Kang-Ling , Chen Xiu-Qi , Lv Zi-Li , Huang Li , Yun Xiang , Yang Mei-Xiong , Tang Qing , Shan Qingwen
Published: July 2020

Objectives: to develope a noninvasive model for significant fibrosis in children with chronic hepatitis B (CHB).Methods: A total 116 CHB pediatric patients who had undergone liver biopsy were included in the study. Blood routine examination, coagulation function, liver biochemistry, viral serology and viral load were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to analyze sensitivity and specificity of all possible cut-off values.Results: Based on the correlation and difference analysis, 7 available clinical parameters [Total bile acid (TBA), Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase(GGT), Aspartate transaminase(AST), Direct bilirubin to total bilirubin ratio (D/T), Alanine aminotransferase(ALT), Prealbumin (PA),and Cholinesterase（CHE）] were included for modeling analysis. A model to predict significant liver fibrosis (Ishak fibrosis score ≥2) was derived using the two best parameters (PA and GGT) The original model was . After mathematical calculation, the G index 600×GGT/PA2 predicts significant fibrosis with an area under the receiving operating characteristics (AUROC) curve of 0.733，95% IC (0.643-0.811). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of G index (0.733,) was higher than that of APRI (0.680) and FIB-4(0.601) to predict significant fibrosis in children with CHB. If the G index's values outside 0.28-1.16, 52% of children with CHB could avoid liver biopsy with an overall accuracy of 75%.Conclusions: The G index can predict and exclude significant fibrosis in children with HBV, which may reduce the liver biopsy need for children with CHB.
Three-Dimensional Construction of Micrometer Level in Rat Stomach by Synchrotron Radiation
Authors: Tao Qiang , Gao Chen-Chen , Tong Xue-Hong , Yuan Shi-Zhen , Xu Jingdong
Published: July 2020

Background: The structural changes of gastric mucosa are considered as an important window of early gastric lesions. This article shows an imaging method of the stomach that does not use imaging agents. X-ray phase-contrast images of different stages of gastric development were taken using micrometer level X-ray in-line phase-contrast imaging (XILPCI) technique on synchrotron radiation facility. The aim of the study was to demonstrate that the imaging technique is an appropriate method for micron imaging of the gastric structures.Methods: The stomachs of 4-, 6- and 12-week-old rats were removed and cleaned. XILPCI has 1000 times greater soft tissue contrast than that of X-ray traditional absorption radiography. The projection images of the rats’ stomachs were recorded by an XILPCI charge coupled device (CCD) at 9 μm image resolution.Results: The X-ray in-line phase-contrast images of the different stages of rat gastric specimens clearly showed the gastric architectures and the details of the gastro-duodenal region. 3-dimensional stomach anatomical structure images were reconstruction. Conclusion: The reconstructed gastric 3D images can clearly display the internal structure of the stomach. XILPCI may be a useful method for medical research in the future.
Carbon ion reirradiation compared to intensity-modulated re-radiotherapy for recurrent head and neck cancer (CARE): a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Held Thomas , Lang Kristin , Regnery Sebastian , Weusthof Katharina , Hommertgen Adriane , Jäkel Cornelia , Tonndorf-Martini Eric , Krisam Johannes , Plinkert Peter , Zaoui Karim , Freudlsperger Christian , Moratin Julius , Krauss Jürgen , Harrabi Semi B. , Herfarth Klaus , Debus Jürgen , Adeberg Sebastian
Published: July 2020

Background
Intensity-modulated re-radiotherapy (reIMRT) has been established as a standard local treatment option in patients with non-resectable, recurrent head and neck cancer (rHNC). However, the clinical outcome is unfavorable and severe toxicities (≥ grade III) occurred in 30–40% of patients. The primary aim of the current trial is to investigate carbon ion reirradiation (reCIRT) compared to reIMRT in patients with rHNC regarding safety/toxicity as well as local control, overall survival (OS), and quality of life (QoL).
Methods
The present trial will be performed as a single center, two-armed, prospective phase II study. A maximum of 72 patients will be treated with either reIMRT or reCIRT to evaluate severe (≥ grade III) treatment-related toxicities (randomization ratio 1:1). The primary target value is to generate less than 35% acute/subacute severe toxicity (≥ grade III), according to the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events v5.0, within 6 months after study treatment. The total dose of reirradiation will range between 51–60 Gy or Gy (RBE), depending primarily on the radiotherapy interval and the cumulative dose to organs at risk. Individual dose prescription will be at the discretion of the treating radiation oncologist. The local and distant progression-free survival 12 months after reirradiation, the OS, and the QoL are the secondary endpoints of the trial. Explorative trial objectives are the longitudinal investigation of clinical patient-related parameters, tumor parameters on radiological imaging, and blood-based tumor analytics.
Discussion
Recent retrospective studies suggested that reCIRT could represent a feasible and effective treatment modality for rHNC. This current randomized prospective trial is the first to investigate the toxicity and clinical outcome of reCIRT compared to reIMRT in patients with rHNC.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT04185974; December 4th 2019; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT04185974.
Understanding Surgical Antimicrobial Prescribing Behaviour in the Hospital Setting: A Systematic Review and Meta-ethnography Protocol
Authors: Parker Hazel M , Frost Julia , Britten Nicky , Robinson Sophie , Mattick Karen
Published: July 2020

Background
Surgical specialities use extensive amounts of antimicrobials, and misuse has been widely reported, making them a key target for antimicrobial stewardship initiatives. Interventions informed by, and tailored to, a clear understanding of the contextual barriers to appropriate antimicrobial use are more likely to successfully improve practice. However, this approach has been under-utilised. Our aim is to synthesise qualitative studies on surgical antimicrobial prescribing behaviour (APB) in hospital settings to explain how and why contextual factors act and interact to influence APB among surgical teams. We will develop new theory to advance understanding and identify knowledge gaps to inform further research.
Methods
The meta-ethnography will follow the seven-phase method described by Noblit and Hare. We will conduct a comprehensive search using eight databases (AMED, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, MEDLINE-in-process, Web of Science, Cochrane Library and PsycINFO) with no date restrictions; forwards and backwards citation searches; and contacting first authors of relevant papers. Studies will be dual screened and included if they use recognised qualitative methods and analysis; focus on contextual factors associated with surgical APB within hospital settings; are available in full in English; and are relevant to the research question. Any disagreements between reviewers will be resolved through discussion to reach consensus. Included studies will be read repeatedly to illuminate key concepts and the relationship between key concepts across studies. Then, key concepts will be sorted into conceptual categories or ‘piles’ which will be further abstracted to form a conceptual framework explaining surgical APB. During the synthesis, emerging interpretations will be discussed with stakeholders (including authors of included studies where possible; surgical and stewardship practitioners; and patient representatives) to ensure new knowledge is meaningful.
Discussion
This research has several strengths: (1) the protocol has been written with reference to established guidance maximising rigour and transparency; (2) the multi-disciplinary research team bring varied interpretative repertoires and relevant methodological skills; and (3) stakeholders will be involved to ensure that findings are relevant, and disseminated via suitable channels, to support improved patient care.
Systematic review registration
The meta-ethnography has been registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO); registration number CRD42020184343.
Risk factors for cerebral palsy in Moldova
Authors: Bufteac Ecaterina Gincota , Jahnsen Reidun , Spinei Larisa , Andersen Guro L.
Published: July 2020

BackgroundThis is the first study assessing risk factors for cerebral palsy (CP) among children born in Moldova.MethodsWe identified 351 children with CP born during 2009 and 2010 in state hospitals, maternity wards, orphanages and rehabilitation centres in Moldova. Detailed information on 417 children without CP (of the total number of 81,277 children) served as a reference group. Logistic regression analyses were applied to calculate crude and adjusted odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) in addition to attributable risk (AR).ResultsAmong children with CP (40.5% girls), 26% had unilateral, 54% bilateral, 13% dyskinetic, and 5% ataxic CP, with 2% unclassified. Almost three quarters of children with CP were from rural areas and 101 (29%) were prematurely born.Significant risk factors for CP included low Apgar score at five minutes (OR 6.187, 95% CI 2.059–18.59), hyperbilirubinemia (OR 6.3, 95% CI 4.1–9.6), breech delivery (OR 3.5, 95% CI 2–6.01), assisted vaginal delivery (OR 47, 95% CI 11–194), birth out of maternity (OR 6.591, 95% CI 1.904–22.81), low education level (OR 3.889, 95% CI 2.8–5.248), alcohol consumption (OR 1.903, 95% CI 1.269–2.885) and hypertension (OR 2.264, 95% CI 1.5–5.417).For singletons born at term, significant risk factors were low Apgar score (OR 2.115, 95% CI 1.22–3.808), hyperbilirubinemia (OR 5.854, 95% CI 3.648–9.393), breech delivery (OR 6.48, 95% CI 3.1–13.7), fundal pressure (OR 3.268, 95% CI 1.398–7.642), maternal hypertension (OR 2.248, 95% CI 1.55–3.997) and alcohol consumption (OR 2.105, 95% CI 1.315–3.369).Hyperbilirubinemia, Apgar score (0–3), birth out of maternity and breech delivery had the highest AR for CP both in the total and term singleton groups. Chronic diseases among mothers also had a high AR for CP.ConclusionsA combination of factors related to the child, the delivery and the mother were risk factors for CP among children born in Moldova, many of them possibly avoidable. The results may indicate a need for better maternal and perinatal childcare. A national CP register in Moldova is recommended as an opportunity to follow up these findings.
Trust in Courier Services as a Determinant of Service Quality
Authors: EJDYS JOANNA , Gulc Aleksandra
Published: July 2020

The article aims to examine relationships between five constructs: the usefulness of courier services (U), the ease of use of courier services (EU), the trust in courier services (T), the service quality (SQ), and the future intention to use courier services (FI).The research focuses on courier services. An electronic questionnaire was used to conduct confidential interviews. It was distributed between January and March 2019. The number of questionnaires returned by courier service customers amounted to 1073. The authors used Generalized Least Squares (GLS) of Structural Equation Modelling (GLS-SEM) to verify the hypotheses. AMOS software was set to test the hypothesised relationships. The obtained results confirmed statistically significant relationships between the variables of the ease of use and the trust in service, the usefulness and the trust in service, the trust in service and the service quality and, finally, the service quality and the future intention to use the services. The obtained results confirmed an important role of technological aspects in courier service quality, which will become the main determinant of the development of this sector in the future. The authors proposed a new approach to the definition of trust in service. Apart from the interpersonal trust, they shed more light on the trust in the supplier, i.e. the trust in the used technologies.
Two novel mutations in TTC21B gene, c.497del and c.2323-3T>A, identified in a Chinese patient
Authors: Gao Xia , Shi Lingna , Liao Xin , Du Qing , Zhao Haiyan , Wang Lili , Zhang Jing
Published: July 2020

Methods

A whole-exome sequencing end stage renal disease patient whose original renal disease is unknown. Swiss model predict the 3D structure of the protein. The related literature was searched by using search terms “NPHP” in PubMed CNKI and VIP database from January 2000 to January 2020.
Results

The whole exome by next-generation sequencing and found two unreported TTC21B mutation sites, c.497del (p.Lys166Serfs) and c.2323−3T > A. The c.497del (p.Lys166Serfs) variant, which is a frame shift mutation, suggested deletion of a single nucleotide. A at position 497 from the TTC21B gene CDS results in replacement of lysine by serine at codon 166 of the TTC21B protein, as well as premature translational stop at position 201. The c.2323−3T > A variant indicates that the antepenultimate base of intron upstream of nucleotide 2323 in the CDS region of TTC21B gene changes from T to A. The change in the three-dimensional structure of the protein caused by the mutations in TTC21B may affect the functions associated with the protein length shorten. Further, this study summarized 25 NPHP gene mutations and the phenotypes that have been reported.
Conclusion

This study reported two novel mutations in the TTC21B gene resulting in NPHP in a Chinese patient and expanded on the spectrum of known causative mutations of TTC21B gene.
Sex Differences in Dietary Copper-Fructose Interaction-Induced Alterations of Gut Microbial Activity are Not Correlated to Hepatic Steatosis
Authors: Song Ming , Yuan Fang , Li Xiaohong , Ma Xipeng , Yin Xinmin , Rouchka Eric C , Zhang Xiang , Deng Zhongbin , Prough Russell A , McClain Craig J
Published: July 2020

Background: Inadequate copper intake and increased fructose consumption represent two important nutritional problems in the US. Diet copper-fructose interactions alter gut microbial activity and contribute to the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aim of this study is to determine whether dietary copper-fructose interactions alter gut microbial activity in a sex-differential manner, and whether sex differences in gut microbial activity are associated with sex differences in hepatic steatosis. Methods: Male and female weanling Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were fed ad libitum with an AIN-93G purified rodent diet with defined copper content for 8 weeks. The copper content is 6mg/kg and 1.5mg/kg in adequate copper diet (CuA) and marginal copper diet (CuM), respectively. Animals had free access to either deionized water or deionized water containing 10% fructose (F) (w/v) as the only drink during the experiment. Body weight, calorie intake, plasma ALT, AST and liver histology were evaluated. Fecal microbial contents were analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing. Fecal and cecal short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS).Results: Male and female rats exhibit similar trends of changes in the body weight, body weight gain and calorie intake in response to dietary copper and fructose, with a generally higher level in male rats. Several female rats in CuAF group developed mild steatosis, while no obvious steatosis was observed in male rats fed with CuAF or CuMF. Fecal 16S rRNA sequencing analysis revealed distinct alterations of the gut microbiome in male and female rats. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size (LEfSe) identified sex-specific abundant taxa in different groups. Further, total SCFAs, as well as, butyrate were decreased in a more pronounced manner in female CuMF rats than in male rats. Of note, the decreased SCFAs are concomitant with the reduced SCFA producers, but not correlated to hepatic steatosis. Conclusions: Our data demonstrated sex differences in the alterations of gut microbial activities and hepatic steatosis in response to dietary copper-fructose interaction in rats. Tissue-specific responses to dietary copper and fructose likely contribute to the sex differences in gut microbial activity and metabolic phenotype.
Verification of a theory of planned behavior model of medication adherence in Korean adults: Focused on moderating effects of optimistic or present bias
Authors: Suh Kyung Hyun
Published: July 2020

Background: In order to prevent or recover from a disease, prescription must be correct, but it is also important for patients to adhere it. Therefore, this study verified a theory of planned behavior (TPB) model to predict the medication adherence of Korean adults and examined the role of optimistic bias or present bias in that model.Methods: The participants were 357 Korean male and female adults whose ages ranged from 18 to 76 (M=41.53, SD=9.89). Their medication adherence was measured with the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, the TPB factors using modified items related to medication adherence, and optimistic bias using items developed, based on the concept and previous studies. Results: An alternative TPB model, including a direct path from attitude to behavior and a direct path from the perceived behavioral control to behavior an insignificant path from behavioral intention to behavior, was validated for Korean adults’ medication adherence. This model was found to be moderated by optimistic bias or present bias. Conclusion: The findings of this study should provide useful information for future research and for medical or health professionals who wish to improve the medication adherence of their patients.
COVID-19 in China: Risk Factors and R0 Revisited
Authors: Khan Irtesam Mahmud , Zhang Wenyi , Zafar Sumaira , Wang Yong , He Junyu , Sun Hailong , Lubinda Jailos , Haque Ubydul , Rahman M Sohel
Published: July 2020

Background: The COVID-19 epidemic had spread rapidly through China and subsequently has proliferated globally leading to a pandemic situation around the globe. Human-to-human transmissions, as well as asymptomatic transmissions of the infection, have been confirmed. As of April 3rd, public health crisis in China due to COVID-19 is potentially under control. Methods: We compiled a daily dataset of case counts, mortality, recovery, temperature, population density, and demographic information for each prefecture during the period of January 11 to April 07, 2020 (excluding Wuhan from our analysis due to missing data). Understanding the characteristics of spatiotemporal clustering of the COVID-19 epidemic and R0 is critical in effectively preventing and controlling the ongoing global pandemic. The prefectures were grouped based on several relevant features using unsupervised machine learning techniques. We performed a computational analysis utilizing the reported cases in China to estimate the revised R0 among different regions for prevention planning in an ongoing global pandemic. Results: Finally, our results indicate that the impact of temperature and demographic (different age group percentage compared to the total population) factors on virus transmission may be characterized using a stochastic transmission model. Conclusions: Such predictions will help prioritize segments of a given community/ region for action and provide a visual aid in designing prevention strategies for a specific geographic region. Furthermore, revised estimation and our methodology will aid in improving the human health consequences of COVID-19 elsewhere.
Sankofa Pediatric HIV Disclosure Intervention Did Not Worsen Depression Scores in Children Living with HIV and their Caregivers in Ghana
Authors: Radcliffe Christopher , Sam Aba , Matos Quinn , Antwi Sampson , Amissah Kofi , Alhassan Amina , Ofori Irene Pokuaa , Xu Yunshan , Deng Yanhong , Reynolds Nancy R. , Paintsil Elijah
Published: July 2020

BackgroundThe ‘Sankofa’ pediatric HIV disclosure study (2013–2017) was an intervention that aimed to address the low prevalence of disclosure of HIV status in Ghana.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study at the intervention site in Kumasi, Ghana, in 2019, (2 years after study closure) and administered the 21-item Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and the 10-item Child Depression Inventory (CDI) to caregiver-child dyads who received the intervention.ResultsWe enrolled 65% (N = 157) of the original dyads in the present study. Between Sankofa enrollment baseline and the present study, both children and caregivers had significant (p < 0.0001) mean reductions in CDI scores and BDI scores, respectively. CDI scores of the children were significantly correlated with BDI scores of the caregivers (r = 0.019, p = 0.019). No statistically significant associations between disclosure status and either CDI score or BDI score were found.ConclusionsOur findings did not support caregivers’ fears that disclosure leads to depression.Trial Registration: NCT01701635 (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier)
Investigating the Effects of COVID-19 Quarantine on Migraine: Data from the Italian National Headache Registry (RICe)
Authors: Delussi Marianna , Gentile Eleonora , Coppola Gianluca , Prudenzano Addolorata Maria Pia , Rainero Innocenzo , Sances Grazia , Abagnale Chiara , Caponnetto Valeria , Cesaris Francesco De , Lupi Chiara , Frattale Ilaria , Guaschino Elena , Marcinnò Andrea , Ornello Raffaele , Pistoia Francesca , Putortì Alessia , Roca Maria Elena , Roveta Fausto , Trojano Maria , Pierelli Francesco , Geppetti Pierangelo , Sacco Simona , Tommaso Marina De
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND Previous studies during the SARS and Ebola pandemics have shown that quarantine is associated with several negative psychological effects. Although it is possible that quarantine for the current COVID-19 pandemic affects migraine burden, no information is currently available on this i
AIM: In this study, we aimed: a) to explore the effect of quarantine on migraine frequency, severity and days with acute medication intake, and b) to evaluate whether migraine, changes in lifestyle, and emotions. were affected in a different manner in three geographic Italian areas with diverse COVID-19 diffusion,
METHODS We interviewed patients included in the observational Italian registry of headache (Registro Italiano Cefalee, RICe), retrospectively collecting information on main headache features, lifestyles factors, emotions, individual infection status, and perception for COVID-19 for the two months before quarantine and during quarantine. Inclusion criteria were: age > 18; diagnosis of migraine without aura, migraine with aura, and chronic migraine; last in-person visit in the 3 months before the beginning of the quarantine.
RESULTS A total of 433 migraine subjects agreed to be interviewed. We found an overall reduction in headache frequency and days with acute medication intake during the quarantine as compared to pre-quarantine. Reduction in headache frequency prevailed in patients reported more days of effective staying at home. Improvement was not evident in northern Italy. Disgust against viral infection corresponded to a reduced improvement in migraine parameters.
CONCLUSIONS. Migraine patients showed a resilient behavior toward the pandemic distress. Disgust against the contagious disease, could increase migraine frequency.
ssue.
Individual and Combined Use of Sawdust and Weed Mat Mulch in a New Planting of Northern Highbush Blueberry I. Impacts on Plant Growth and Soil and Canopy Temperature
Authors: Strik Bernadine C. , Davis Amanda J. , Bryla David R. , Orr Scott T.
Published: July 2020

A 2-year trial was established in Oct. 2016 in western Oregon to evaluate the effects of various in-row mulch treatments on the establishment of northern highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L. ‘Duke’). The treatments included douglas fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco] sawdust, black weed mat (woven polypropylene groundcover), green weed mat, and sawdust covered with black or green weed mat. Soil temperature was unaffected by the color of the weed mat, but it was often higher during the day in beds with weed mat mulch than in those with sawdust alone or sawdust covered with weed mat. Black or green weed mat also resulted in higher canopy temperatures, particularly when sawdust was underneath the weed mat. Plant growth was mainly unaffected by the color of the weed mat, and the maximum depth of the root system was similar among the mulch treatments. However, plants grown with sawdust mulch, with or without weed mat, had a greater canopy width and volume in year 2, a wider root system in both years, and more dry weight (DW) in the crown in year 1 and in the whips in year 2 than those with weed mat alone. Furthermore, plants with weed mat over sawdust were taller in year 1 and had greater canopy cover and more DW in new wood in year 2 than those with sawdust alone, and they had a larger canopy, more root development, and greater DW in the crown, new and old wood, fruit, and pruning wood in one or both years than those with weed mat alone. Over the course of the 2 years of the study, the net gain in total plant DW was lowest when the plants were grown with black weed mat and highest when they were grown with black weed mat over sawdust. Although it was more expensive initially, the use of weed mat over sawdust resulted in more plant growth than weed mat alone due to the insulating properties of the sawdust, and it was more effective for weed control than using sawdust alone.
TECHNOLOGY OF FISH SNACKS BASED ON MINCED FISH USING A PROTEIN SUPPLEMENT FOR PREVENTION OF CHRONIC GASTROINTESTINAL DISEASES
Authors: Starostenko Bogdana , Nechepurenko Kristina , Horbeko Galina , Zolotukhina Olena , Zorya Roza , Trubchanin Andrey
Published: July 2020

The necessity of developing new energy-saving technologies for integrated deep processing of fish raw materials is substantiated. The results of a study of functional technological indicators of fish minced systems using protein supplements based on salmon skin are presented. Rational parameters of drying fish raw materials are determined, which allow to maintain its high nutritional and biological value. The technology of fish snacks based on dried fish raw materials using a protein supplement from salmon skin has been developed.

Object of research: development of a technology for the production of fish snacks with protein supplement.

Investigated problem: obtaining an affordable food product with an increased amount of protein.

The main scientific results: possible ranges of the concentration of protein supplements in the technological process are identified and the parameters of the production process are determined. It is shown that increasing the concentration of protein supplements reduces the duration of the sublimation process for the production of fish snacks. In particular, increasing the concentration of protein supplements to 15 % makes it possible to increase the amount of mineral and protein substances.

Scope of practical use of the research results: food industry enterprises specializing in the processing of fish raw materials.

Innovative technological product: the technology for the production of fish snacks enriched with protein raw materials can prevent the development of peritonitis and chronic exacerbations in patients with the gastrointestinal tract.

Scope of the innovative technological product: fish processing complex in the field of food production, clinical practice of using fish snacks for the prevention of chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
Retirement behavior strategies: the attitudes of students from Poland and Ukraine towards the old-age risk
Authors: Płonka Maria , Jedynak Tomasz , Trynchuk Viktor
Published: July 2020

Digitalization and technological advancement, referred to as the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Industry 4.0), results not only in technological innovation but also in the changes in society and public awareness. One such tendency is the demographic aging, which implicates two concerns: the instability of the public pension systems and the social awareness related with the risk of major reduction of benefits in contrast to the expectations and the need for the additional private pension security. The research has aimed to identify the opinions and attitudes of the students from Poland and Ukraine in respect to the broadly understood issues of the old age security, as well as to recognize the prospective differences in this field between the researched populations. The relevant research was conducted using the PAPI method in the years 2018–2019. Within the framework of the research, nine specific hypotheses were presented concerning the attitudes towards the selected aspects of the pension schemes and old-age security. The results were compiled in the form of the semantic differential, and the Mann-Whitney U test was utilized to verify the significance of the differences in the distribution of the answers given by the students. Those served as the basis for formulating the conclusions regarding similarities and differences in the opinions expressed by young people studied populations.
AcknowledgmentThis project has been financed by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education within the “Regional Initiative of Excellence” Programme for 2019–2022. Project No. 021/RID/2018/19. Total project budget: PLN 11 897 131,40.
Forgiveness of Judges: Local Wisdom in the Concept of National Criminal Law
Authors: Zuhri Muhammad Fakhruddin
Published: July 2020

Criminal law, as an instrument of guarding public order, has two functions. The first one is as general function to regulate life and to organize procedures in society. The second one is as particular function to protect legal interests from crime by giving criminal punishment as sanctions for the perpetrators. Conceptually, forgiveness of the judge emerges to modify rigid legal certainty towards flexible legal certainty. This departs from several cases that have actually fulfilled the formulation of criminal offenses, but their actions are not feasible to be sentenced. Therefore, in the concept of the National criminal law, the Draft of Criminal Code (RKUHP) makes a new formula containing local wisdoms that regulate the possibility of forgiveness of the judge to several cases that are improperly being convicted. This paper focuses on the concept of forgiveness of the judge that cannot be separated from the local wisdom values, including religious values and legal wisdoms living in society.
Tropical rainfall trend and stationarity analysis
Authors: Ng Chun Kang , Ng Jing Lin , Huang Yuk Feng , Tan Yi Xun , Mirzaei Majid
Published: July 2020

Climate change is most likely to cause changes to the temporal and spatial variability of rainfall. A trend analysis to investigate the rainfall pattern can detect changes over temporal and spatial scales for a rainfall series. In this study, trend analysis using the Mann–Kendall test and Sen's slope estimator was conducted in the Kelantan River Basin, Malaysia. The Kwiatkowski–Phillips–Schmidt–Shin (KPSS) test was applied to evaluate the stationarity of the rainfall series. This basin annually faces onslaughts of varying year-end flooding conditions. The trend analysis was applied for monthly, seasonal and yearly rainfall series between 1989 and 2018. The temporal analysis results showed that both increasing and decreasing trends were detected for all rainfall series. The spatial analysis results indicated that the northern region of the Kelantan River Basin showed an increasing trend, whilst the southwest region showed a decreasing trend. It was found that almost all the rainfall series were stationary except at two rainfall stations during the Inter Monsoon 1, Inter Monsoon 2 and yearly rainfall series. Results obtained from this study can be used as reference for water resources planning and climate change assessment.
Isolation, Characterization, Proliferation and Differentiation of Synovial Membrane-derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (SM-MSCs) from Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors: Marlina Marlina , Rahmadian Rizki , Armenia Armenia , Widowati Wahyu , Rizal Rizal , Kusuma Hanna Sari Widya , Wibowo Satrio Haryo Benowo , Widodo Wahyu Setia , Sholihah Ika Adhani
Published: July 2020

Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are the cells which has high renewal capacity and and are capable for differentiating into some types of cells. MSCs can be obtained from several tissues including bone marrow, synovial membrane, blood, adipose tissue and periosteum. The proliferation and self-repair ability of MSCs are the advantages to use as stem cells-based therapy of various diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the differentiation, characterization and priliferation of synovial membrane-derived MSCs (SM-MSCs).Materials and Methods: The cells proliferation capacity was determined by cell counting using trypan blue, characterization of MSCs (cluster of differentiation (CD)90, CD11b, CD73, CD34, CD19, CD45, CD105 and human leukocyte antigen-DR isotype (HLA-DR)) using flow cytometry analysis, and differentiation capability into three lineage cells was determined with red alcian blue, oil red O and alizarin staining.Results: The type culture of SM-MSCs was adherent and showed positive CD44, CD105, CD73, CD90 and negative of CD19, HLA-DR, CD11b, CD45, CD34 surface marker. Based on the result, SM-MSCs P3 showed differentiation potency into adipogenic, chondrogenic, and osteogenic lineage cells. The population doubling time of SM-MSCs has increased from P3 to P8. The population doubling time of SM-MSCs P3 was 1.69 days and SM-MSCs P8 was 3.64 days.Conclusion: The results indicated that SM-MCSCs from osteoarthritis patients are able to differentiate into osteocytes, chondrocytes, adipocytes and highly express of CD105, CD73, CD90, CD44 and negative for CD34, CD45, CD14, CD19.Keywords: synovial membrane, mesenchymal stromal cells, adipocyte, chondrocyte, osteocyte
Phytoconstituent Analysis and Antibacterial Potential of Epicarp Extracts from Mature Fruits of Persea americana Mill
Authors: Callixte Cyuzuzo , Damascene Dusabimana Jean , Ma'aruf Anwar , Dachlan Yoes Prijatna , Sensusiati Anggraini Dwi , Daniel Ndayisaba , Winthoko Eka Nora Vitaloka Aprilia Putri
Published: July 2020

Background: World Health Organization (WHO) has reported the antimicrobial resistance as one among the ten threats to global health in 2019. The development of plant-derived antibiotics is currently considered as a modern medicine’s greatest success. Persea americana is a plant with high medicinal profile which allow its different parts to be used for therapeutic purposes. This study is aimed to determine the antibacterial potential of ethanol and chloroform extracts from epicarp of mature fruits of P. americana Mill against human pathogens.Materials and Methods: The epicarps of avocado were dried in oven and ground into powder using porcelain mortar and pestle. The powdered plant materials were extracted with both 96% ethanol and chloroform. Extracts were qualitatively screened to examine their bioactive contents and agar well diffusion method was used to analyze the antibacterial activity of extracts against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.Results: Both solvents showed the ability to dissolve the secondary metabolites from avocado epicarps. Phytochemical screening disclosed the presence of alkaloids, proteins, terpenoids, tannins, flavonoids, steroids and phenolic compounds in ethanolic extracts and absence of flavonoids and tannins in chloroform extracts. The extracts showed the inhibition zones ranging from 14±4.5 mm to 26±2.1 mm while streptomycin demonstrated high inhibition zones ranging from 20±3.1 mm to 30 mm. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of extracts fall in the range of 0.3125 mg/mL and 20 mg/mL while the MIC values for streptomycin vary from 0.25 mg/mL to 1.25 mg/mL.Conclusion: The ethanol and chloroform extracts proved to be potentially effective and to be used as natural alternative preventives to fight against various disease-causing bacteria.Keywords: antibacterial activity, ethanol extract, chloroform extract, Persea americana, Rwanda