Higher Acceptability Scores Research Articles

Anchovies Engraulidae Ice Cream

Anchovies have many vitamins and minerals that provide significant health benefits. They are best known as a source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote brain and heart health. On the other hand, ice cream is a highly popular, palatable, nutritious, and commercially important dairy product, usually made from dairy products, such as milk and cream, and often combined with fruits or other ingredients and flavors. The researcher took advantage of the abundance of anchovies in the supply. Known for its health benefits, the researcher incorporated anchovies in ice cream to create a highly nutritious product without compromising palatability. The study is limited to determining the acceptability of anchovies ice cream in terms of color, odor, taste, and mouthfeel. The pH of the product was also determined. There were four treatments: A (25% anchovies w/w), B (50% anchovies w/w), C (75% anchovies w/w) and D (100% anchovies w/w). Based on the data gathered, there was no significant difference in the acceptability of the four treatments of anchovies ice cream in terms of its acceptability level in all sensory parameters and its general acceptability. Overall, all treatments had a mean score of “like slightly” in their acceptability score. Regarding pH, it was noted that the more anchovies added, the more acidic the product becomes. Although there was no significant difference, the researchers labeled treatment B as the most acceptable since, in almost all parameters, treatment B has the highest acceptability score. The study showed that anchovies were acceptable raw dessert materials, and varying amounts did not affect the acceptability.

Physicochemical, Textural, and Antioxidant Attributes of Yogurts Supplemented with Black Chokeberry: Fruit, Juice, and Pomace.

The fruit, juice, and pomace of black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa) are a rich source of phenolic compounds and can be used to obtain enriched dairy products. Chokeberry fruit, due to its astringent taste, is less favorable or even unacceptable to consumers and is usually processed into juice, resulting in large quantities of pomace, which is often discarded as waste. The aim of this study is to valorize chokeberry fruit, juice, and pomace by incorporating them in different percentages (1, 2, and 3%) into yogurt as functional ingredients. The physicochemical (total solids content, fat, protein, titratable acidity, pH, color), textural (hardness, adhesion, cohesiveness, springiness, gumminess, and chewiness), antioxidant (DPPH scavenging activity and total phenolic content), and sensory characteristics of supplemented yogurts were investigated. The results showed that the addition of chokeberry pomace in yogurt increased their total solids content (from 11.46 ± 0.18% for the plain yogurt sample to 13.71 ± 0.18% for the yogurt sample with 3% chokeberry pomace), while the addition of fruit and juice decreased the protein content of the yogurt samples (from 4.35 ± 0.11% for the plain yogurt sample to 3.69 ± 0.15% for the yogurt sample with 3% chokeberry fruit and to 3.84 ± 0.1% for the yogurt sample with 3% chokeberry juice). There was no statistically significant change in the fat content of all samples of chokeberry-supplemented yogurt compared to plain yogurt. The pH of the yogurt samples decreased with the increase in the percentage of chokeberry fruit, juice, and pomace added to the yogurt (from 4.50 for the plain yogurt samples to 4.35, 4.30, and 4.20 for the yogurt samples supplemented with 1, 2, and 3% black chokeberry pomace). Inhibition of DPPH radical formation was higher in the yogurt samples with chokeberry fruit (57.84 ± 0.05%, 73.57 ± 0.11%, and 75.38 ± 0.05% inhibition for the samples with 1, 2, and 3% fruit) and pomace (up to 64.8 ± 0.11% inhibition for the sample with 3%), while total phenolic content decreased (from 392.14 ± 2.06 to 104.45 ± 2.63 µg/g) as follows: yogurt with chokeberry pomace > yogurt with chokeberry fruit > yogurt with chokeberry juice. The yogurt samples with the highest acceptance scores were the samples with 3% and 2% black chokeberry fruit, while the lowest acceptance score was obtained for the yogurt sample with 3% black chokeberry pomace. Chokeberry fruit, juice, and pomace can improve the physicochemical, textural, and antioxidant characteristics of yogurt, emphasizing that the antioxidant effect of yogurt could be substantially improved by the addition of chokeberry pomace due to its high phenolic content, while incorporation into yogurt is another way to valorize this by-product.

Efficacy and Feasibility of Web-Based ACT-Enhanced Behavioral Treatment for Skin Picking in Adults: A Randomized Waitlist-Controlled Trial

Skin picking disorder is a chronic repetitive condition that impacts daily functioning and causes significant distress. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) enhanced behavioral training (A-EBT) has shown promise in targeting skin picking symptoms but is not widely disseminated among providers. This study examines the efficacy and feasibility of an eight-week fully-automated online A-EBT program for skin picking disorder. Participants with skin picking disorder (N = 84) were randomized into either an online intervention (n = 43) or a waitlist control (n = 41). All participants completed self-report assessments at baseline, mid-, post-intervention, and 1-month follow-up. Analyses used multilevel linear modeling with the full intent-to-treat sample. Results demonstrated statistically stronger improvements from baseline to 1-month follow-up in the intervention condition compared to waitlist for skin picking symptoms (SMD=0.90), skin picking-related psychological flexibility (SMD=-0.82), and well-being (SMD=-0.31), with no significant effects on distress. Treatment effects were maintained at one-month follow-up, with 29.0% of intervention participants meeting responder status, compared to 0.1% of waitlist participants. High usability and acceptability scores provide preliminary evidence of its feasibility as a fully automated intervention. These findings suggest an automated online A-EBT program may be an effective and scalable treatment for individuals with skin picking disorder.

Evaluation of Different Lactic Acid Bacteria as Starter Cultures for Nono—A West African Fermented Dairy Product

Nono is a traditional cultured dairy product consumed across West Africa. In this study, five cultures isolated from Nigerian-produced nono and three purified lactic acid bacteria from the USDA-NRRL were examined for use in preparing nono starter cultures. Isolated cultures were characterized using microbiological and biochemical tests, including 16s rDNA sequencing to identify the genotype. Each isolated strain was cultured and inoculated into UHT milk (1% v/v) and allowed to ferment for 24 h at 25 °C. Fermented products were evaluated for pH, moisture content, water activity, and viscosity, and their descriptive sensory properties were noted. The isolate that resulted in sensory properties most similar to traditional nono was then used as the primary strain for subsequent starter culture blends made with the NRRL cultures. These blends were used for the fermentation of nono and compared with commercial nono samples. Isolates obtained from nono were as follows: Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus paracasei, and, surprisingly, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, which has not been previously reported as a part of the nono microflora. There was no significant difference in the physical parameters of nono made from the individual indigenous isolates and a similar pattern was observed for the organisms from NRRL, except that their total titratable acidity and viscosities were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those of the indigenous organisms. Compounded starter made with L. rhamnosus and NRRL cultures was then used to make nono that showed significantly (p < 0.05) different pH and viscosity values than commercially purchased nono, while sensory evaluation showed that nono made from the new starter culture had a high overall consumer acceptance score.

National Addiction Workshop: A Virtual Adaptation to Support Competency Development in Opioid Use Disorder Management.

Accessible, manualized, skill-based training ready for wide dissemination is needed to prepare healthcare staff to meet the needs of people impacted by the opioid epidemic. A 2-day workshop and simulation training was designed by an interprofessional substance use disorder (SUD) specialty care team, adapted to a virtual platform, manualized, and offered to healthcare staff and trainees from a large healthcare system. The workshop was offered 6 times over the course of 10 months with a total of 177 participants from across the United States enrolled in the training. Interactive experiential learning strategies including games designed to test knowledge, small-group case discussions, video demonstrations of skills, patient panels, and 3 simulations of a patient with chronic pain who developed opioid use disorder in the context of long-term opioid therapy were utilized in efforts to build skills and confidence managing SUDs in primary care and general mental health settings. Of those who completed the post-workshop survey, most found both content and training structure useful, particularly content related to medication management, stigma, and collaborative care. In addition, overall confidence scores in assessing, diagnosing, and treating SUD increased. Skill building exercises, such as interprofessional team simulations, were highlighted as most beneficial. The workshop received national attention leading to a partnership with the healthcare system's simulation center for wider dissemination. Expanding access to SUD treatment requires training healthcare staff to effectively change attitudes, increase knowledge, and improve key skills. This 2-day interprofessional workshop was well-received by participants who reported high acceptability and satisfaction scores and demonstrated improved confidence in the management of SUDs. This type of manualized, collaborative, skill-based learning experience can foster staff preparedness and willingness to conceptualize SUD as a chronic condition amenable to treatment in different healthcare settings.

Helping patients navigate the immediate release of medical records: MedEd, a novel patient engagement technology

BackgroundThrough online health portals, patients receive complex medical reports without interpretation from their healthcare provider. This study evaluated the usability of MedEd, a patient engagement tool providing definitions of medical terminology in breast pathology and radiology reports. MethodsIndividuals who underwent a normal screening mammogram were invited to complete semi-structured interviews where they downloaded MedEd and discussed their download experience. Acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of MedEd were evaluated. Results143 individuals were invited to participate, and 14 semi-structured interviews were completed. Participants reported ease of downloading and navigating MedEd with concerns about privacy and others’ abilities to download. Participants demonstrated high acceptability (mean 4.48/5, SD 0.95), appropriateness (mean 4.66/5, SD 0.83), and feasibility (mean 4.48/5, SD 1.04) scores. ConclusionParticipants expressed excitement for future use of MedEd and provided suggestions for improvements. Next steps include evaluating comprehension of real breast reports while using MedEd and expanding patient access.

Proposed Alternative Models for Licensing Filipino Seafarers

Licensing is evidence that one has spent time and money to gain access to a class of professionals that influence the safety, health, and welfare of the public and is charged to conform to codes of ethical conduct and standards. Licensure elevates an individual above other graduates and bestows permission to be legally responsible for activities within his specialization. Licensure will likewise enhance an individual’s personal worth and value, provide a broader set of occupational options, and earn high respect from the public (Berson, 2012). A state’s law governs the merchant marine profession. To practice the profession, one must complete an academic degree in marine courses, such as a BS in Marine Transportation or a BS in Marine Engineering. Seafarers must pass the required state board-written examinations. The passing grade is determined by a body of examiners, usually called the Board of Examiners or, as in. the Philippine setting, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), which is designated by the law to perform the function of regulation (Geguiento, 2010, as cited by Palmejar, 2010). In the attempt to develop alternative models for acquiring professional licenses for Filipino seafarers, a descriptive exploratory study was conducted that involved seafarers, maritime education students, and graduates of maritime education programs. Schools offering maritime education in the National Capital Region, officially listed in the Commission of Higher Education- Maritime Higher Education Institution (CHED-MHEI), as well as Maritime Training Centers and Agencies, registered in the Department of Labor-Maritime Training Council (DOLE-MTC), comprised the research population from which respondents were selected employing non-probability, purposive sampling techniques, particularly maximum variation sampling. The assessment of the acceptability of the current licensing scheme ranged from neutral to slightly acceptable. Students (with CAR and on-board training and junior maritime students) generally favor Alternative Model B, as reflected in the high mean acceptability scores, while unlicensed seafarers showed interest in Alternative Models C and D, as shown in the high mean acceptability scores. Keywords: Licensing Filipino Seafarers, licensing model, maritime licensing, licensure of maritime professionals

Investigating the physicochemical properties, sensory profile and consumer acceptability of beetroot dark chocolate.

The incorporation of functional food ingredients in chocolate that seek to eliminate, if not completely, most of the added sugar content, as well as the use of alternative chocolate production techniques, have gained popularity in recent years. This study aimed to incorporate red beetroot powder into dark chocolate and investigate the effect of red beetroot powder concentration and processing time in a melanger on the physicochemical properties, sensory profile and consumer acceptability of beetroot dark chocolate. The addition of red beetroot powder increased the moisture content, particle size distribution and hardness of the chocolates, while the opposite was true for processing time with no effect on the colour. Except for taste, which had an average score of 3.2 ± 1.8 on the 7-point hedonic scale, consumers scored all the other sensory attributes of the chocolates above 4.0. Among the chocolates with red beetroot powder, samples with a 15% red beetroot powder addition had a high average overall acceptability score of >5, while the 30% sample scored <4. Red beetroot powder can be used to replace sugar in dark chocolate without affecting its physicochemical properties, sensory profile or consumer acceptability. However, the target market should be considered when determining the level of red beetroot powder incorporation in terms of chocolate taste. This research has the potential to improve the overall health-promoting properties of dark chocolate by eliminating added sugar (partially or completely). It would also help to diversify beetroot utilization, allow small-scale processors to venture into chocolate production and expand the small-scale chocolate value chain. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Acceptability of Four Intervention Components Supporting Medication Adherence in Women with Breast Cancer: a Process Evaluation of a Fractional Factorial Pilot Optimization Trial

Adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) reduces mortality in early-stage breast cancer, but adherence is low. We developed a multicomponent intervention to support AET adherence comprising: text messages, information leaflet, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and side-effect website. Guided by the multiphase optimization strategy, the intervention components were tested in the ROSETA pilot optimization trial. Our mixed-methods process evaluation investigated component acceptability. The pilot optimization trial used a 24–1 fractional factorial design. Fifty-two women prescribed AET were randomized to one of eight experimental conditions, containing unique component combinations. An acceptability questionnaire was administered 4 months post-randomization, and semi-structured interviews with 20 participants further explored acceptability. Assessments were guided by four constructs of the theoretical framework of acceptability: affective attitude, burden, perceived effectiveness, and coherence. Quantitative and qualitative findings were triangulated to identify agreements/disagreements. There were high overall acceptability scores (median = 14–15/20, range = 11–20). There was agreement between the qualitative and quantitative findings when triangulated. Most participants “liked” or “strongly liked” all components and reported they required low effort to engage in. Between 50% (leaflet) and 65% (SMS) “agreed” or “strongly agreed,” it was clear how each component would help adherence. Perceived effectiveness was mixed, with 35.0% (text messages) to 55.6% (ACT) of participants “agreeing” or “strongly agreeing” that each component would improve their adherence. Interview data provided suggestions for improvements. The four components were acceptable to women with breast cancer and will be refined. Mixed-methods and triangulation were useful methodological approaches and could be applied in other optimization trial process evaluations.

Bitterness and flavanone composition of ‘Redson’ fruit: A new red-fleshed pomelo × grapefruit hybrid

‘Einat’ (‘Redson™’) is a new triploid, red-fleshed pomelo × grapefruit hybrid. We examined the quality, flavor, bitterness and flavanone composition of ‘Redson’ fruit, as compared to 'Oroblanco', another pomelo x grapefruit hybrid, 'Star Ruby' grapefruit, 'Goliath' pomelo and 'Newhall' navel orange. ‘Redson’ fruit are seedless with a yellow peel and red flesh and have unique quality characteristics. Descriptive sensory tests revealed that ‘Redson’ fruit are bitterer than other citrus fruit, but earned a high consumer acceptance score and ranked first for preference among all bitter citrus fruits, including pomelo, grapefruit and their hybrids. ‘Redson’ fruit contained the highest amount of the bitter flavanone naringin, but had low levels of other bitter flavanones (neohesperidin and poncirin) and non-bitter flavanones (hesperidin and narirutin). Furthermore, we detected a high correlation (R2 = 0.957) between naringin levels and the sensation of bitterness among citrus fruit, featuring the importance of naringin in determining citrus bitterness.

Pilot implementation and evaluation of the Sit-Stand e-Guide: an e-training program on the use of sit-stand workstations.

The 'Sit-Stand e-Guide' e-training program, designed to promote appropriate use of sit-stand workstations (SSWs), was evaluated for usability, acceptability and impact on various outcomes among SSW users. Participants from a large municipal organisation (25% male; mean age 45 [SD = 10.6] years) completed questionnaires pre-training (T0, n = 57), immediately post-training (T1, n = 50), and four weeks (T2, n = 46: primary endpoint) and twelve months later (T3, n = 30). High usability, acceptability and usefulness scores were reported at T1. Median [IQR] knowledge (4.4/5 [0.9]) and confidence (4.6/5 [1.0]) significantly increased at T1 compared to baseline (2.8 [1.2]; 3.3 [1.4]) and maintained at T2 and T3. At T2, mean [SD] sitting time (5.3 [1.2] h/workday) and low back discomfort (2.4 [2.3]) significantly decreased compared to baseline (6.1 [1.3] h; 3.4 [2.5] discomfort), SSW usage increased (1.4 [1.4]-2.8 [1.7] transitions), with no significant changes in work performance. Some behavioural changes were sustained at T3. The Sit-Stand e-Guide was acceptable and effective; evaluation across diverse workplaces and workers is now needed.

Evaluating the WISE (Women in the South-East) Telehealth Network: A Model of Healthcare and Health Promotion at Rural Libraries.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the WISE (Women in the South-East) Telehealth Network. A follow-up survey design was used to determine the impact of the program on access to healthcare. WISE provided preventive care to women and gender expansive people at local libraries and the Mobile Library in the rural South Carolina Lowcountry. In 1year (February 2021-2022), WISE reached 523 individuals with 151 agreeing to participate in the study. Most participants identified as white (66%) or Black (22%). A Community Health Worker provided health education, connection to telehealth services, referrals, and connected individuals with community and social services. The Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ), changes in knowledge, satisfaction with WISE, Acceptability of Intervention measure (AIM), and sociodemographic characteristics. Participants with a high telehealth usability score were significantly more likely to be under the age of 35 (OR 4.60 [95% CI 1.21-17.52]), married (OR 10.00 [95% CI 2.19-45.64]), or white (OR 4.00 [95% CI 1.06-15.08]). The intervention earned a high acceptability score 4.46 (± .61)/5.0 by helping participants obtain necessary medical care and resources, as well as meeting their educational needs. This study offers practical suggestions to expand the use of telehealth initiatives to improve health outcomes by engaging libraries in rural communities.

Effect of virtual reality-based mindfulness training model on anxiety, depression, and cancer-related fatigue in ovarian cancer patients during chemotherapy.

Although the prognosis of ovarian cancer can be significantly improved through standardized surgery and chemotherapy, 70% of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) patients would suffer from drug resistance and recurrence during the long chemotherapy cycle. To explore the impact of a training mode based on the integration of virtual reality technology and mindfulness on anxiety, depression, and cancer-related fatigue in ovarian cancer patients during chemotherapy. Through virtual reality technology, a mindfulness training software was designed and developed, and a mindfulness training mode based on virtual reality technology was constructed. Using a self-controlled design, 48 ovarian cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy who were hospitalized in a tertiary hospital in Beijing from August 2022 to May 2023 were conveniently selected as the research subjects. The patients were subjected to four weeks of mindfulness training based on virtual reality technology, and the acceptance of the mindfulness training mode using virtual reality technology was evaluated. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and Cancer Related Fatigue Scale (CRF) were used to evaluate the anxiety, depression, and fatigue of patients before and after intervention. The virtual reality based mindfulness training mode includes four functional modules: personalized curriculum, intelligent monitoring, emotion tracking, and Funny Games. 48 patients had a high acceptance score (139.21 ± 10.47), and after using mindfulness training mode based on virtual reality technology, anxiety, depression, and cancer-related fatigue in ovarian cancer patients during chemotherapy were significantly reduced, with a statistically significant difference (p< 0.001). Ovarian cancer patients during chemotherapy have a high acceptance of virtual reality based mindfulness training mode. The application of this mode can reduce the psychological problems of anxiety, depression, and cancer-related fatigue in ovarian cancer patients during chemotherapy, and is worth promoting and using.

Patient acceptance of teleneurology across neurologic conditions.

Patient acceptability with outpatient teleneurology has been reported within specific conditions, but less is known about acceptability across neurologic conditions. The study objective was to compare the acceptability of teleneurology between patients with various neurological conditions and determine what other factors influence acceptability. This was a prospective study of Veterans who completed new outpatient teleneurology visits with the Department of Veterans Affairs National Teleneurology Program. Visits were conducted via video to home or video to the outpatient clinic. Patient acceptability was assessed via telephone interview two weeks post-visit. Acceptability was a summed score (3-21) of three 7-point Likert questions (higher = more acceptable). Clinical diagnosis categories were based on the neurologists' ICD10 diagnosis code. Acceptability score was modeled using a censored Tobit model controlling for demographics, type of tele-visit, medical comorbidity, and ICD10 category. In FY 2021, 277 of 637 (43.5%) patients completed an interview with analyzable acceptability data. Of these 277, 70 (25.3%) had codes indicating headache, 46 (16.6%) movement disorder, 45 (16.2%) general symptoms, and 116 (41.9%) for all other categories. Mean patient acceptability was 18.3 (SD 3.2). There was no significant difference in scores between these groups. The only factor independently related to acceptability was medical comorbidity, with higher comorbidity associated with higher acceptability scores. Patients find their outpatient teleneurology experience highly acceptable independent of neurologic condition. Those with more comorbidity report higher acceptability. Use of teleneurology may be useful and acceptable across many outpatient neurologic conditions including for more medically complex patients.

Individualized small bowel preparation for computed tomography enterography: A prospective randomized controlled trial.

The study aims to evaluate the feasibility of body mass index (BMI)-based individualized small bowel preparation for computed tomography enterography (CTE). In this prospective randomized controlled study, patients undergoing CTE were randomly assigned to the individualized group or standardized group. Those in individualized group were given different volumes of mannitol solution based on BMI (1000mL for patients with BMI<18.5kg/m2, 1500mL for patients with 18.5kg/m2≤BMI<25kg/m2 and 2000mL for patients with BMI≥25kg/m2) while patients in the standardized group were all asked to consume 1500-mL mannitol solution. CTE images were reviewed by two experienced radiologists blindly. Each segment of the small bowel was assessed for small bowel image quality and disease detection rates. Patients were invited to record a diary regarding adverse events and acceptance. A total of 203 patients were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups. For patients with BMI<18.5kg/m2, 1000-mL mannitol solution permitted a significantly lower rate of flatulence (P=0.045) and defecating frequency (P=0.011) as well as higher acceptance score (P=0.015), but did not affect bowel image quality and diseases detection compared with conventional dosage. For patients with BMI≥25kg/m2, 2000-mL mannitol solution provided better overall image quality (P=0.033) but comparable rates of adverse events and patients' acceptance compared with conventional dosage. Individualized bowel preparation could achieve both satisfactory image quality and patients' acceptance thus might be an acceptable alternative in CTE.

Development and quality evaluation of novel biscuits by utilizing fruits and vegetables seed

Food supplementation is a topic of attention now since consumers are becoming more conscious of their nutritional needs. The purpose of this study was to create innovative biscuits utilizing fruit and vegetable seeds and to assess their quality. The right-shaped biscuits were prepared and baked at 170°C for 20 to 25 mins. There were six distinct varieties of biscuits made: control, date, jackfruit, bean, pumpkin, and mixed seed powder contained biscuits. When compared to other biscuits, the bean seed powder-incorporated biscuit gets a high overall acceptance score (7.88). The mixed seed powder incorporated biscuit had a sizable amount of moisture (4.70%) and ash (1.42%). Jackfruit (24.54%), pumpkin (18.46%), beans (9.03%), and date (74.19%) seed powder incorporated biscuits have quite significant levels of protein, fat, crude fiber, and total CHO. Biscuits containing jackfruit seed powder had relatively high WAC and bulk density (2.51% and 0.67%). The thickness, volume, density and spread ratio were relatively high in jackfruit (1.43 cm), mixed (18.58 cm3 ), date (0.55 g/cm3 ) and bean (4.74) seed incorporated biscuits respectively. The highest iron content was found in pumpkin seed-incorporated biscuits (0.41 mg/100 g). The mixed seed powder-incorporated biscuits had a high (95.06%) percentage of inhibition in antioxidant tests. According to the current study, replacing wheat powder in biscuits with fruit and vegetable seed powder up to 15% would boost the biscuit's nutritional content.

Acceptance and hesitancy of COVID-19 vaccination among Saudi pregnant women.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic started, it has significantly impacted health systems and societies worldwide. Pregnancy increases the risk of severe illness when associated with COVID-19. Pregnant women are likely to experience COVID-19-related pregnancy complications however many of them were hesitant to receive the vaccine. This study aimed to assess the acceptance and hesitancy of COVID-19 vaccination among pregnant women in Jeddah. The present study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional research design to include pregnant women through convenience sampling at the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient department and antenatal ward at King Abdul-Aziz Medical City, Jeddah. Data was collected from August to October 2022 using a structured questionnaire. Approximately one-third of the 264 participants (36.4%) strongly disagreed that they had developed immunity against COVID-19. More than half of them (61% and 66.3% respectively) had heard that the vaccine was unsafe for them and their babies during pregnancy, and it would contain the COVID-19 virus. However, half of them 50% agreed that vaccination would ease precautionary measures. A high acceptance score toward COVID-19 vaccination was observed among pregnant women working in the health sector. The most frequently reported reason for vaccination refusal was the belief that it was unsafe for the mother and her baby during pregnancy. Most of the participants perceived their susceptibility to COVID-19 infection as low and were hesitant to take the vaccine because of their worry about its effectiveness. However, they indicated a willingness to take the vaccine if it was mandatory and if they received adequate information about it. These findings correspond with previous studies conducted in Saudi Arabia that explore the reluctance of pregnant and breastfeeding women to receive COVID-19 vaccination.

Patients' Preference on Advanced Therapy and Follow-Up Procedure for Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Japan: A Web-Based 3A Survey.

With the recent increase in number of drugs for treating inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), it has become important to select treatments acceptable to patients. Endoscopy and biomarkers from blood and stool samples are used to evaluate IBD disease activity. This study aimed to clarify the acceptability of usage of advanced therapy and examination methods in patients through an internet-based survey. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease were asked via the internet to participate in a survey on the acceptability of nine therapies and three examination methods. The respondents rated acceptability on a scale of 1-10 and specified the most preferred option. Responses were obtained from 388 patients with ulcerative colitis and 82 with Crohn's disease; 14.5% and 11.5% of the patients underwent intravenous infusions and subcutaneous injections, respectively. Once-daily oral administration had the highest acceptability score, which was significantly different from other administration usages (p < 0.0001), regardless of prior treatment history. Oral administration was preferred by 88.9% of patients. The ranking of examination methods from most to least acceptable was blood tests > endoscopy > stool tests, with significant differences among all groups (p < 0.0001). Blood testing (76%) and stool testing (4.5%) were the most and least preferred methods, respectively. The most acceptable usage of advanced therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease was once-daily oral administration. Treatments that are effective, safe, and acceptable to patients should be selected, and examination methods acceptable to patients should be used.

How is the halal certification policy implemented? Perspective analysis of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Indonesia

Purpose This study aims to explore small and medium enterprises (SMEs) acceptance of the halal certification policy in Indonesia, aiming to understand their perspectives and characteristics, as well as the primary considerations of business actors in implementing the policy. This study seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of SME actors’ views toward halal certification policies, which is crucial for strengthening the government’s efforts in building a robust halal system and creating awareness in the community. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a mixed method. This study uses a random sampling technique on SMEs in Bandung, Indonesia. A total of 400 respondents participated in filling out the study questionnaire. Meanwhile, five SME actors were interviewed to gain deeper insight into the topic of this study. The data analysis technique used descriptive analysis and verification with confirmatory factor analysis. Findings The results of the study indicate that the halal certification policy is generally accepted by business actors, but there are criticisms regarding knowledge and information about halal certification. Halal awareness and perceived effectivity have the highest acceptance scores, while halal knowledge and information, religious behavior, individual background, and personal and social aims have the lowest scores. All acceptance indicators meet the criteria of a good fit model, with system indicators having a greater impact. Acceptance is based not only on theological–religious considerations but also on pragmatic considerations related to business operations. Research limitations/implications This study has several limitations that should be considered. First, the topics and variables studied are focused only on the dimensions of acceptance of the halal certification policy. It would be more comprehensive if integrated with other variables in correlational and implicative studies. Second, the measurement model used in this study is modified from the policy acceptance model, which focuses on normative and systemic aspects of the policy without considering theological values of the halal certification policy. A more complex model is required to measure the acceptance of a comprehensive halal certification policy that considers both normative and theological aspects. Practical implications The implications of this study are as follows: First, the implementation of the halal certification policy must take into account the various indicators of policy acceptance, particularly from the business actors who are responsible for implementing the policy. Second, the implementation of the halal certification policy must also take into account the heterogeneous characteristics of the business actors. Third, the certification policy should focus on two critical indicators, namely, halal awareness and the perceived effectivity of policy implementation, which can be reinforced by other indicators. Social implications The results of this study confirm that the government must take into account the response of business actors to ensure the effectiveness of implementing the halal certification policy. The government can take an important step in this regard by conducting a survey of business actors who have participated in the halal certification program to understand the benefits and satisfaction they receive from the policy and identify the factors that hinder them from accepting the halal certification policy. Originality/value This study highlights the response of SME actors regarding the acceptance of the halal certification policy. This study provides a new perspective regarding the acceptance of SMEs toward halal certification policies that are important for future implementation.

East African highland cooking banana: towards an efficient selection of hybrids with user-preferred food quality traits.

Determinants of culinary qualities of East African highland cooking bananas (EAHCB) are not well known. This constrains the inclusion of user-preferred traits in breeding. The present study aimed to quantify key indicators of user-preferred characteristics to enable selection of acceptable hybrids. Qualitative characteristics that drive preference were big bunches (15-34 kg), long straight/slightly curved fingers (12-23 cm), yellowness and soft texture. Descriptive sensory analysis of the intensity of colour and texture the 23 genotypes revealed that landraces Kibuzi, Mbwazirume, Nakitembe and Mpologoma had higher intensity of yellowness and lower intensity of hardness (softer) and a low score (≤ 1.0) of astringency taste. A preference test showed that they had higher acceptability scores. Biochemical, instrumental and sensory data revealed correlations between sensory firmness and instrumental hardness (r = 0.5), sensory firmness and amylopectin (r = -0.54), suggesting that qualitative descriptions can be predicted by instrumental and biochemical indicators. Significant (P < 0.05) variations in amylose and total starch content were observed in different varieties. Moderate correlations between instrumental hardness and firmness in mouth (r = 0.55), cohesiveness and firmness in the mouth (r = 0.57), and adhesiveness and firmness in the mouth (r = 0.64) were observed. Surprisingly, carotenoids content was not correlated with yellowness in cooked matooke. However, positive correlations were observed between chroma (b*) parameters of raw matooke and sensorial assessed color on cooked samples. Qualitative characteristis; the bunch, pulp colour and texture; that drive users-preference in the EAHCB were quantified, paving way for breeders to use them to select genotypes with these attributes early in the breeding process. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.