bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Categorization of emotions in dog behavior based on the deep neural network
Authors: Kowalczuk Zdzisław , Czubenko Michał , Żmuda‐Trzebiatowska Weronika
Published: November 2022

The aim of this article is to present a neural system based on stock architecture for recognizing emotional behavior in dogs. Our considerations are inspired by the original work of Franzoni et al. on recognizing dog emotions. An appropriate set of photographic data has been compiled taking into account five classes of emotional behavior in dogs of one breed, including joy, anger, licking, yawning, and sleeping. Focusing on a particular breed makes it easier to experiment and recognize the emotional behavior of dogs. To broaden our conclusions, in our research study we compare our system with other systems of different architectures. In addition, we also use modern transfer learning with augmentation and data normalization techniques. The results show that VGG16 and VGG19 are the most suitable backbone networks. Therefore, a certain deep neural network, named mVGG16, based on the suboptimal VGG16 has been created, trained and fine‐tuned with transfer (without augmentation and normalization). The developed system is then tested against an internal test dataset. In addition, to show the robustness of the system, a set of external data outside the breed is also taken into account. Being able to detect unsafe dog behavior and rely on a generalization for other breeds is worth popularizing. Equally important are the possible applications of the system to monitor the behavior of pets in the absence of their owners.
Risk factors associated with venous thromboembolism in tuberculosis: A case control study
Authors: Nan Guo Yi , Fei He , Zhen Wang , Yun Duan Tian
Published: November 2022

Tuberculosis (TB) patients who develop venous thromboembolism (VTE) have poor clinical outcomes. This study aimed to explore the risk factors and the prognosis of TB patients with VTE. A total of 11 267 with TB patients from the Zhejiang University‐affiliated Chest Hospital, China, were enrolled between January 2016 and January 2020. A total of 107 TB patients with VTE were selected as the VTE group. Patients in the control group were randomly screened in a 1:1 ratio between the VTE and control groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the factors associated with VTE in TB patients. Of the 214 patients, 145 (60.17%) were male, 69 (32.2%) were female, with an average age of 62.21 ± 19.35. The incidence of VTE in TB patients was 0.95%. Using a univariate analysis, it was found that age, fever, dyspnea, lower limb edema, respiratory failure, malignant tumor, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, D—dimer, and hemoglobin levels were different between the two groups (P < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that higher D‐dimer value, higher incidence of lower limb edema, and TB were risk factors for VTE; OR (95%CI) = 8.840 (2.383–32.794); OR (95%CI) = 4.957 (1.219–20.161); OR (95%CI) = 16.216 (4.779–55.025). However, the use of Rifamycin was found to be a protective factor against VTE [OR (95%CI) = 0.170(0.073–0.395)]. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) curve of D‐dimer (area under curve [AUC] = 0.831 ± 0.028 [95%CI: 0.776–0.886, P < 0.05]) and the cut‐off value of 1855 μg/L was obtained according to the Youden index, with a sensitivity and a specificity rate of 82.2% and 74.3%, respectively. The risks of VTE seem higher in TB patients with fever, dyspnea, lower limb edema, and D‐dimer levels of more than 1855 μg/L; therefore, it should be actively screened, and prophylactic anticoagulation given if necessary. Effective directly observed treatment plus short‐course chemotherapy (DOTS) protocol anti‐TB therapy helps reduce the probability of VTE in TB patients.
Effects of pharmacological inhibition of hyaluronic acid synthesis on experimental endometriosis
Authors: Olivares Carla Noemí , Ricci Analía Gabriela , Bilotas Mariela Andrea , Alaniz Laura , Barañao Rosa Inés , Meresman Gabriela Fabiana
Published: November 2022

Background

Dysregulated hyaluronic acid (HA) metabolism has been shown to be implicated in several pathologies including endometriosis. 4‐Methylumbelliferone (4MU) is an HA synthesis inhibitor with proven antitumour activity. In this study, we aim to evaluate the effect of 4MU on endometriosis development both in vivo and in vitro.

Methods

Endometriosis was surgically induced by uterine tissue auto‐transplantation in 32 two‐month‐old BALB/c mice. Animals were designated into the early or late starting treatment group, which initiated on day 2 or day 15 after surgery, respectively. Within each group, 4MU 200 mg/kg/day or vehicle (Control) were administered by oesophageal gavage for 28 days. After sacrifice, the percentage of developed lesions, lesion size, cell proliferation, vascularization and HA deposition within the endometriotic‐like lesions were evaluated. Cell viability was assessed in endometrial epithelial cells (ECC‐1) and in endometrial stromal cells (t‐HESC); and migration was evaluated in t‐HESC.

Results

There was a significant reduction in the percentage of developed lesions in mice that started the 4MU treatment on day 2 compared with its respective control group, and compared with those that started treatment on day 15. However, no significant changes were found when analysing endometriotic‐like lesion's cell proliferation, vascularization and HA deposition. In vitro, both cell viability and migration were inhibited by 4MU treatment.

Conclusions

The inhibition of HA synthesis could be a beneficial and alternative option to treat endometriosis at the early stage of the disease. Further research is necessary to elucidate 4MU's mechanism of action and better strategies for delivering this promising drug.
Molecular mechanisms of glucocorticoid resistance
Authors: Huang Huanming , Wang Wenqing
Published: November 2022

Background

As a powerful anti‐inflammatory, immunosuppressive, and antiproliferative drug, glucocorticoid (GC) plays an important role in the treatment of various diseases. However, some patients may experience glucocorticoid resistance (GCR) in clinical, and its molecular mechanism have not been determined.

Methods

The authors performed a review of the literature on GCR focusing on mutations in the NR3C1 gene and impaired glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signalling, using METSTR (2000 through May 2022) to identify original articles and reviews on this topic. The search terms included ‘glucocorticoid resistance/insensitive’, ‘steroid resistance/insensitive’, ‘NR3C1’, and ‘glucocorticoid receptor’.

Results

Primary GCR is mainly caused by NR3C1 gene mutation, and 31 NR3C1 gene mutations have been reported so far. Secondary GCR is caused by impaired GC signalling pathways, including decreased expression of GR, impaired nuclear translocation of GR, and impaired binding of GR to GC and GR to target genes. However, the current research is more on the expression level of GR, and there are relatively few studies on other mechanisms. In addition, methods for improving GC sensitivity are rarely reported.

Conclusion

The molecular mechanisms of GCR are complex and may differ in different diseases or different patients. In future studies, when exploring the mechanism of GCR, methods to improve GC sensitivity should also be investigated.
The impact of inter‐clinician electronic consultation in patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation in primary care
Authors: Mazón‐Ramos Pilar , Cinza‐Sanjurjo Sergio , Garcia‐Vega David , Portela‐Romero Manuel , Rodríguez‐Mañero Moisés , Rey‐Aldana Daniel , Morandeira Agustín Pía , Lage‐Fernández Ricardo , Gude‐Sampedro Francisco , González‐Juanatey José R.
Published: November 2022

Background

An early diagnosis and early initiation of oral anticoagulants (OAC) are main determinants for outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Inter‐clinician electronic consultations (e‐consultations) program for the general practitioner referrals to cardiologist may improve health care access by reducing the elapsed time for cardiology care.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of a reduced elapsed time to care after a inter‐clinician e‐consultations program implementation (2013–2019) in comparison with previous in‐person consultation (2010–2012) in the outpatient health care management in a Cardiology Department.

Methodology

We included 10,488 patients with AF from 1 January 2010, to 31 December 2019. Until 2012, all patients attended an in‐person consultation (2010–2012). In 2013, we instituted an e‐consult program (2013–2019) for all primary care referrals to cardiologists that preceded patient's in‐person consultation when considered. The shared electronic patient dossier (EPD) was available between GP and cardiologist, and any change in therapy advice from cardiologist was directly implemented in this EPD.

Results

During the e‐consultation period (2013–2019) were referred 6627 patients by GPs to cardiology versus 3861 during the in‐person consultation (2010–2012). The e‐consultation implementation was associated with a reduction in the elapsed time to anticoagulation prescription (177.6 ± 8.9 vs. 22.5 ± 8.1 days, p < .001), and an increase of OAC use (61% [95% IC: 19.6%–102.4%], p < .001). The e‐consult program implementation was associated with a reduction in the 1‐year CV mortality (.48 [95% CI: .30–.75]) and all‐cause mortality (.42 [95% CI: .29–.62]). The OAC reduces the stroke mortality (.15 [95% CI: .06–.39]) and CV mortality (.43 [95% CI: .29–.62]) and all‐cause mortality (.23 [95% CI: .17–.31]).

Conclusion

A shared EPD‐based inter‐clinician e‐consultation program significantly reduced the elapsed time for cardiology consultation and initiation of OAC. The implementation of this program was associated with a lower risk of stroke and cardiovascular/all‐cause mortality.
Traumatic maxillofacial injuries: Patterns, outcomes, and long‐term follow‐up of a military cohort
Authors: Tsur Nir , Talmy Tomer , Radomislensky Irina , Almog Ofer , Gendler Sami
Published: November 2022

Background/Aims

Maxillofacial trauma poses a distinct challenge on the modern battlefield, and data on its long‐term implications are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate maxillofacial injury characteristics, outcomes, and complications along the continuum of care among hospitalized military personnel from the pre‐hospital setting through long‐term rehabilitation.

Materials and Methods

A registry‐based study was undertaken of three national trauma and rehabilitation registries: The Israel Defense Forces Trauma Registry (IDF‐TR), which records pre‐hospital data. The Israeli National Trauma Registry for in‐hospital data and the Israel Ministry of Defense Rehabilitation Department (MOD‐RD) registry contain long‐term disability data. The cohort comprised IDF soldiers who suffered maxillofacial injuries between 1997 and 2020.

Results

A total of 672 patients with maxillofacial injuries were included in the study, and 6.4% of all trauma admissions were related to maxillofacial injuries. Of these, 366 (54%) were injured in non‐military (NMC) circumstances, and 306 (46%) were wounded in military circumstances (MC). The mechanisms of injury were mainly traffic‐related among the NMC group compared with an explosion in the MC group. Maxillofacial fractures were frequently associated with traumatic brain injuries with higher rates in the NMC group than in the MC group (55% vs. 30%,p < .001). In a multivariate analysis, zygomatic and orbital fractures were associated with higher odds of concomitant head injury. The most common categories of long‐term disability included central nervous system disorders, skull injuries, epilepsy, hearing impairment, ophthalmologic conditions, and post‐traumatic stress disorder.

Conclusions

Maxillofacial injuries are often associated with concomitant traumatic brain injury. Long‐term disabilities associated with these injuries included the central nervous system, hearing, ophthalmologic impairments, and post‐traumatic stress disorder.
Loss of complex female song but not duetting in the ancestors of Carolina wrens
Authors: Price J. Jordan , Willson Mira T. , Pare Rustin W.
Published: November 2022

Female singing and coordinated male–female duetting are often but not always found in the same species. Both behaviors are more common in tropical than temperate songbirds, but few studies have differentiated between the factors selecting for each. Here we investigate the evolution of female vocal complexity and male–female vocal coordination in Carolina wrens (Thryothorus ludovicianus), one of the few non‐tropical members of a songbird family (Troglodytidae) that is well known for producing coordinated male–female duets. Female Carolina wrens are not known to sing; rather, they produce relatively simple, sex‐specific chatters, often during territorial encounters. We analyzed field recordings to show that females coordinate these chatters with male songs at rates similar to those observed in some tropical duetting wren species. We then used phylogenetic comparative methods to show that the evolutionary ancestors of Carolina wrens had female songs that were more acoustically complex than the vocalizations of current females, suggesting past selection against female vocal complexity. Levels of vocal coordination with males, in contrast, have changed relatively little from those of tropical ancestors. Our results suggest that these two aspects of female behavior, acoustic complexity and vocal coordination with males, have evolved independently and have different functions in communication.
Observations of parent–adolescent interactions relate to food parenting practices and adolescent disordered eating in adolescents at risk for adult obesity
Authors: Smith Amy D. , Sanchez Natalia , Harrison Kadyn , Bourne Caitlin , Clark Emma L. M. , Miller Reagan L. , Melby Christopher L. , Johnson Sarah A. , Lucas‐Thompson Rachel G. , Shomaker Lauren B.
Published: November 2022

Adolescent disordered eating and obesity are interrelated and adversely relate to mental and metabolic health. Parental feeding practices have been associated with adolescent disordered eating and obesity. Yet, observable interactions related to food parenting have not been well characterized. To address this gap, N = 30 adolescents (M ± SD 14 ± 2 year) at risk for adult obesity due to above‐average body mass index (BMI ≥70th percentile) or parental obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) participated in a video‐recorded parent–adolescent task to discuss a food/eating‐related disagreement. Interactions were coded for individual/dyadic affect/content using the Interactional Dimensions Coding System. We examined associations of interaction qualities with parent‐reported food practices, adolescent disordered eating behaviors/attitudes, and insulin resistance. Reported parenting practices were correlated with multiple interaction qualities (p‐values <0.05), with the most consistent correspondence between parent‐reported pressure to eat (e.g., pressure to eat more healthy foods) and negative aspects of parent–adolescent interactions. Also, after accounting for adolescent age, sex, and BMI‐standard score, parent–adolescent interaction qualities were associated with adolescents' disordered eating and insulin resistance. Specifically, greater adolescent problem‐solving related to less adolescent global disordered eating, shape, and weight concern (p‐values <0.05); adolescent autonomy related to less weight concern (p = 0.03). Better parent communication skills were associated with less adolescent eating concern (p = 0.04), and observed dyadic mutuality related to adolescents' lower insulin resistance (p = 0.03). Parent–adolescent interaction qualities during food/eating‐related disagreements show associations with parent‐reported food practices and adolescent disordered eating. This method may offer a tool for measuring the qualities of parent–adolescent food/eating‐related interactions. A nuanced understanding of conversations about food/eating may inform family‐based intervention in youth at‐risk for adult obesity.
Comparing relationships of food parenting practices and concern for child weight between siblings
Authors: Vollmer Rachel L.
Published: November 2022

The objective of this cross‐sectional study was to compare the difference in food parenting practices based upon parent concern and/or perception of child weight among siblings. U.S. parents (n = 63) with two or more children between the ages of 2.5 and 10 years old completed the Comprehensive Food Parenting Questionnaire, select items from the Child Feeding Questionnaire, and seven open‐ended questions for each child. There were significant differences in how parents fed siblings. For example, the relationship between concern for child weight and restriction for weight control was stronger for the older child, which was supported by parents' qualitative data.
Monetary policy, ownership structure, and risk‐taking at financial intermediaries
Authors: Caselli Giorgio , Figueira Catarina
Published: November 2022

This paper examines how ownership structure interacts with monetary policy in shaping financial intermediaries' appetite for risk. By constructing a large panel of banks across Western Europe, we provide evidence that differences in bank ownership influence the transmission of monetary policy via the risk‐taking channel. While shareholder banks actively adjust the riskiness of their portfolios to changes in interest rates, stakeholder banks appear to be less responsive to such changes. These findings call for greater attention to the nature of bank ownership when setting monetary policy.
Climate and socioeconomic drivers of biomass burning and carbon emissions from fires in tropical dry forests: A Pantropical analysis
Authors: Corona‐Núñez Rogelio O. , Campo Julio E.
Published: November 2022

Global burned area has declined by nearly one quarter between 1998 and 2015. Drylands contain a large proportion of these global fires but there are important differences within the drylands, for example, savannas and tropical dry forests (TDF). Savannas, a biome fire‐prone and fire‐adapted, have reduced the burned area, while the fire in the TDF is one of the most critical factors impacting biodiversity and carbon emissions. Moreover, under climate change scenarios TDF is expected to increase its current extent and raise the risk of fires. Despite regional and global scale effects, and the influence of this ecosystem on the global carbon cycle, little effort has been dedicated to studying the influence of climate (seasonality and extreme events) and socioeconomic conditions of fire regimen in TDF. Here we use the Global Fire Emissions Database and, climate and socioeconomic metrics to better understand long‐term factors explaining the variation in burned area and biomass in TDF at Pantropical scale. On average, fires affected 1.4% of the total TDF' area (60,208 km2) and burned 24.4% (259.6 Tg) of the global burned biomass annually at Pantropical scales. Climate modulators largely influence local and regional fire regimes. Inter‐annual variation in fire regime is shaped by El Niño and La Niña. During the El Niño and the forthcoming year of La Niña, there is an increment in extension (35.2% and 10.3%) and carbon emissions (42.9% and 10.6%). Socioeconomic indicators such as land‐management and population were modulators of the size of both, burned area and carbon emissions. Moreover, fires may reduce the capability to reach the target of “half protected species” in the globe, that is, high‐severity fires are recorded in ecoregions classified as nature could reach half protected. These observations may contribute to improving fire‐management.
First Principles Calibration of 40Ar Abundances in 40Ar/39Ar Mineral Neutron Fluence Monitors: Methodology and Preliminary Results
Authors: Morgan Leah E. , Davidheiser‐Kroll Brett , Kuiper Klaudia F. , Mark Darren F. , McLean Noah M. , Wijbrans Jan R.
Published: November 2022

The accuracy and traceability of geochronometers are of vital importance to questions asked by many Earth scientists. The widely applied 40Ar/39Ar geochronometer relies on the co‐irradiation of samples with neutron fluence monitors (reference materials) of known ages; the ages and uncertainties of these monitors are critical to our ability to apply this chronometer. Previously, first principles, astronomical and optimisation calibrations have been made. The first principles method for determining the age of monitor minerals is the K‐Ar method, which involves measurement of their 40K and 40Ar* abundances. The AQuA (Absolute Quantities of Argon) pipette system, which emits calibrated quantities of 40Ar* via the ideal gas law, was used to calibrate the sensitivity of the system across a range of source pressures and estimate 40Ar* abundances in neutron fluence monitors. These 40Ar abundances were combined with existing 40K abundance data for these monitors. Ages for HD‐B1 and MD2 (GA1550) biotite fluence monitors were calculated and combined with intercalibration data for HD‐B1 and Fish Canyon sanidine (FCs) to determine ages for FCs. Current results do not have the targeted accuracy when compared with previous calibrations; however, we show how the extensive methodology development presented here can be used towards making reliable future measurements.
Thermal properties of field‐assisted‐sintered SiCN–Y2O3 composites
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Li Quan , Maiti Sanat Chandra , Shen Xingchen , He Jian , Peng Fei , Bordia Ranjendra K.
Published: November 2022

Polymer‐derived amorphous SiCN has excellent high‐temperature stability and properties. To reduce the shrinkage during pyrolysis and to improve the high‐temperature oxidation resistance, Y2O3 was added as a filler. In this study, polymer‐derived SiCN–Y2O3 composites were fabricated by mixing a polymeric precursor of SiCN with Y2O3 submicron powders in different ratios. The mixtures were cross‐linked and pyrolyzed in argon. SiCN–Y2O3 composites were processed using field‐assisted sintering technology at 1350°C for 5 min under vacuum. Dense SiCN–Y2O3 composite pellets were successfully made with relative density higher than 98% and homogeneous microstructure. Due to low temperature and short time of the heat‐treatment, the grain growth of Y2O3 was substantially inhibited. The Y2O3 grain size was ∼1 μm after sintering. The composites’ heat capacity, thermal diffusivity, and thermal expansion coefficients were characterized as a function of temperature. The thermal conductivity of the composites ceramics decreased as the amount of amorphous SiCN increased and the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the composites increased with Y2O3 content. However, the thermal conductivity and CTE did not follow the rule of mixture. This is likely due to the partial oxidation of SiCN and the resultant impurity phases such as Y2SiO5, Y2Si2O7, and Y4.67(SiO4)3O.
Parallel analysis of multiple human memory CD4+ T‐cell subsets within antigen‐specific responses using cell proliferation dyes
Authors: Cook Laura , Zaunders John , Seddiki Nabila , van Bockel David , Kelleher Anthony D , Munier C. Mee Ling
Published: November 2022

Activation induced marker (AIM) assays are being used increasingly to measure antigen‐specific T‐cell responses, but this activation can alter cell lineage defining phenotypic markers. We aimed to extend the utility of AIM assays to enable pre‐activation defined cell populations to be tracked and quantified within T‐cell memory responses. We sorted three ex vivo CD4+ T‐cell populations prior to any activation using well defined ex vivo lineage surface marker combinations. These populations were memory non‐Tregs, CD39+ Tregs and CD39neg Tregs, although any three memory CD4+ T‐cell populations able to be isolated by cell surface markers could potentially be tracked. These cells were labeled with three distinct fluorescent cell proliferation dyes (CFSE, CellTrace Violet and Cell Proliferation Dye eF670) and then all autologous PBMCs were reconstituted maintaining ex vivo cell ratios and CD25/OX40 AIM assays performed with CMV and HSV antigens. This approach enabled tracking of pre‐defined cell populations within antigen stimulated responses using both activation marker and cell proliferation readouts. We confirmed that although CD39+ Tregs comprise a substantial proportion of AIM assay responses, they do not make substantial contributions to the proliferative response. This extends the utility of AIM assays to enable parallel analysis of the relative contribution of several CD4+ memory T‐cell subsets to recall responses.
A fast and reliable method for semi‐automated planimetric quantification of dental plaque in clinical trials
Authors: Del Rey Yumi Chokyu , Rikvold Pernille Dukanovic , Johnsen Karina Kambourakis , Schlafer Sebastian
Published: November 2022

Aim

To develop a simple and reproducible method for semi‐automated planimetric quantification of dental plaque.

Materials and Methods

Plaque from 20 healthy volunteers was disclosed using erythrosine, and fluorescence images of the first incisors, first premolars, and first molars were recorded after 1, 7, and 14 days of de novo plaque formation. The planimetric plaque index (PPI) was determined using a semi‐automated threshold‐based image segmentation algorithm and compared with manually determined PPI and the Turesky modification of the Quigley–Hein plaque index (TM‐QHPI). The decrease of tooth autofluorescence in plaque‐covered areas was quantified as an index of plaque thickness (TI). Data were analysed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Pearson correlations.

Results

The high contrast between teeth, disclosed plaque, and soft tissues in fluorescence images allowed for a fast threshold‐based image segmentation. Semi‐automated PPI is strongly correlated with manual planimetry (r = 0.92; p < .001) and TM‐QHPI recordings (r = 0.88; p < .001), and may exhibit a higher discriminatory power than TM‐QHPI due to its continuous scale. TI values corresponded to optically perceived plaque thickness, and no differences were observed over time (p > .05, ANOVA).

Conclusions

The proposed semi‐automated planimetric analysis based on fluorescence images is a simple and efficient method for dental plaque quantification in multiple images with reduced human input.
Modeling for thin layer drying of black pepper (Piper nigrum) in a reverse air flow dryer
Authors: Jayashree Ettannil , John Zachariah Thondiath
Published: November 2022

Drying of freshly harvested green pepper (Piper nigrum) was performed in a reverse air flow mechanical dryer (RRLT‐NC – 101). Fresh and blanched pepper of varieties, Sreekara and Panniyur‐1 were dried at 50°C, 55°C, and 60°C. Blanching was done by dipping in boiling water for 1 min. The experimental data for moisture loss was converted to moisture ratios and fitted to five thin layer drying models to describe the drying process mathematically. The results were compared for their goodness of fit in terms of coefficient of determination (r2), root mean square error (RMSE) and mean square of deviation (χ2). Logarithmic model was found most suitable to describe the drying process of black pepper. The unblanched Sreekara took 42, 34, and 26 h and blanched took 36, 30, and 24 h to dry from moisture content of 180.89–9.4% d.b. at air temperatures of 50°C, 55°C, and 60°C, respectively. In case of Panniyur the unblanched took 44, 36, and 28 h and blanched took 37, 32, and 26 h to dry from moisture content of 197.62–9.2% d.b. for the same temperatures. The effective moisture diffusivity varied from 3.28 × 10−7 to 6.44 × 10−7 m2/s. The activation energy was higher for unblanched than for blanched black pepper varied between 39.45 and 44.05 kJ/mol.

Practical applications

Drying of harvested pepper is one of the most important unit operations during processing of green pepper. Sun drying is the conventional method followed for drying. The despiked pepper berries are dried under sun for 4–5 days to bring the moisture content below 11%. The process of blanching green pepper in boiling water for 1 min followed by mechanical drying could produce better quality dried product. A simple reverse air flow, natural convection mechanical dryer suitable for drying various agricultural produce at farm level was used for drying green pepper. The results of the study could be applied for gathering information related to the drying process in a mechanical dryer like the drying kinetics, effective moisture diffusivity and activation energy as well as the effect of blanching on these parameters.
Numerical optimization of guaco leaves extraction based on pre‐heat treatment
Authors: Martins Marina Roberto , Johann Gracielle , Palú Fernando , da Silva Edson Antonio
Published: November 2022

The mass yield of the extraction is influenced directly by the pre‐treatment conditions of the raw material. In the case of leaves, drying is required to ensure their biological stability and is a pre‐processing step that demands large amounts of thermal energy. In the present study, the oil extraction process was numerically optimized, considering the influence of the pre‐heat treatment of the guaco leaves. An operating range between 30°C and 70°C, 1.0 and 5.0 m/s, and recirculation between 0 and 1 was evaluated. The minimum ratio of energy consumption of drying by the amount of oil obtained after extraction (4.05 × 105 kWh/kg) was obtained under the optimal conditions of 30.02°C, 1.0 m/s, and .129 of air recycling flow rate. With our results, it is possible to guarantee safety in the storage of guaco leaves, in addition to optimizing the extraction process, maximizing the obtaining of the oil mass, and reducing energy consumption in the drying step.

Practical applications

Tea is one of the most consumed beverages in the world and is obtained by extraction. Between tea leaves, guaco (Mikania glomerata Sprengel) is mainly applied to obtain therapeutic properties as an expectorant and bronchodilator. While guaco leaves are perishable, they must be dried to ensure their biological stability. As others heat and mass transfer processes, the efficient design is mandatory to reduce energy consumption. One of the more efficient drying processes is the operation under exhaust air recirculation. Thus, there is a need to evaluate optimal drying operation conditions to understand the effects of exhaust air recirculation on the energy consumption of drying and the amount of extract obtained in the extraction. Our numerical results indicated that it is possible to guarantee safety in storing guaco leaves and optimize its extraction process.
Long‐term clinical outcomes of intestinal Behçet's disease: A 30‐year cohort study at a tertiary hospital in South Korea
Authors: Park Jihye , Park Soo Jung , Park Jae Jun , Kim Tae Il , Cheon Jae Hee
Published: November 2022

Background and Aim

We aimed to identify the long‐term clinical outcomes of and prognostic factors for intestinal Behçet's disease (BD).

Methods

A cohort of 780 patients with intestinal BD between 1997 and 2021 was investigated to determine long‐term clinical outcomes and prognostic factors at an inflammatory bowel disease clinic at Severance Hospital, Seoul, Korea.

Results

During the median follow‐up period of 12.7 ± 7.2 years, 5‐aminosalicylic acids, corticosteroids, immunomodulators, and anti‐tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) agents were required in 94.9%, 67.2%, 43.8%, and 14.6% of the patients, respectively. The cumulative rates of anti‐TNF‐α use were 3.7%, 7.5%, 8.5%, 12.1%, 17.6%, and 24.0%, and those for abdominal surgery were 5.7%, 10.9%, 12.6%, 16.5%, 21.6%, and 28.3%, at 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, and 30 years, respectively, after initial diagnosis of intestinal BD. The cumulative rates of hospitalization were 11.8%, 21.9%, 27.9%, 38.8%, 54.4%, and 74.8%, and those of emergency room visits were 10.0%, 19.8%, 22.7%, 31.6%, 50.0%, and 65.0% at 1, 3, 5, 10, 20, and 30 years. Older age at primary diagnosis, previous appendectomy history, higher disease activity index for intestinal Behçet's disease score, systemic BD, multiple intestinal ulcers, deep intestinal ulcers, higher C‐reactive protein, lower hemoglobin, and lower albumin levels were associated with poor prognosis. Married status, higher body mass index, oral ulceration, and arthritis were negatively associated with poor prognosis.

Conclusions

Data on the long‐term clinical outcomes of intestinal BD and their prognostic factors could guide physicians in patient monitoring and in optimizing individualized treatment.
The burden of gout in acne keloidalis nuchae—Insights from a population‐based study
Authors: Shavit Eran , Cohen Arnon , Zoller Lilach , Onn Erez , Kridin Khalaf
Published: November 2022

Background

The risk of gout amid patients with acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) has not been investigated in the past.

Objective

To assess the risk of developing gout among patients with AKN relative to control subjects.

Methods

A population‐based retrospective study followed patients with AKN (n = 2677) and age‐, sex‐, and ethnicity‐matched control subjects (n = 13 190). The incidence of new‐onset gout was compared between the two groups. Hazard ratio (HR) for the risk of gout was obtained using a multivariate Cox regression model.

Results

The incidence rate of gout was 1.12 (95% CI, 0.68–1.76) and 0.48 (95% CI, 0.34–0.66) per 1000 person‐years among patients with AKN and controls, respectively. The crude risk of developing gout was significantly higher in patients with AKN (HR, 2.27; 95% CI, 1.26–4.10;p = 0.007). After controlling for age, sex, and ethnicity, AKN emerged as an independent risk factor of gout (adjusted HR, 2.34; 95% CI, 1.29–4.22;p = 0.005). When adjusting for other confounders such as body mass index, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, the risk of gout in AKN fell out of significance (adjusted HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 0.73–2.65;p = 0.311),

Conclusion

Patients with AKN experience an increased risk of gout. The risk is not independent and is mainly mediated through the metabolic comorbidities typifying AKN. We recommend screening for gout in patients with suggestive complaints.
Predictors of second COVID‐19 booster dose or new COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy among nurses: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Galanis Petros , Vraka Irene , Katsiroumpa Aglaia , Siskou Olga , Konstantakopoulou Olympia , Katsoulas Theodoros , Mariolis‐Sapsakos Theodoros , Kaitelidou Daphne
Published: November 2022

Aims and objectives

To assess the levels of second COVID‐19 booster dose/new COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy among nurses and explore the potential predictors of vaccine hesitancy.

Background

COVID‐19 full vaccination seems to be highly effective against highly contagious variants of SARS‐CoV‐2. Healthcare workers are at high‐risk group since they have experienced high levels of COVID‐19‐associated morbidity and mortality.

Design

An on‐line cross‐sectional study was carried out in Greece in May 2022, using a self‐administered questionnaire.

Methods

The study population included nurses in healthcare services who were fully vaccinated against COVID‐19 at the time of study. We considered socio‐demographic characteristics, COVID‐19‐related variables, and attitudes toward COVID‐19 vaccination and pandemic as potential predictors of vaccine hesitancy. We applied the STROBE checklist in our study.

Results

Among 795 nurses, 30.9% were hesitant toward a second booster dose or a new COVID‐19 vaccine. Independent predictors of hesitancy included lower educational level, absence of a chronic condition, good/very good self‐perceived physical health, lack of flu vaccination during 2021, front‐line nurses that provided healthcare to COVID‐19 patients, nurses that had not been diagnosed with COVID‐19 and nurses that had at least one relative/friend that has died from COVID‐19. Moreover, increased compliance with hygiene measures, increased fear of a second booster dose/new COVID‐19 vaccine and decreased trust in COVID‐19 vaccination were associated with increased hesitancy.

Conclusions

Our study shows that a significant percentage of nurses are hesitant toward a second booster dose/new COVID‐19 vaccine. This initial hesitancy could be a barrier to efforts to control the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses' role during the COVID‐19 pandemic is essential since they are the front‐line healthcare workers empowering the public with their passion and empathy. There is a need to communicate COVID‐19 vaccine science in a way that is accessible to nurses in order to decrease COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy.

Patient or public contribution

No patient or public contribution.
An evaluation of the prevalence and predictive factors of sexual dysfunction in women with heart failure: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Küçükkaya Hilal , Gönenç Ilknur Münevver
Published: November 2022

Aims and Objectives

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictive factors of sexual dysfunction and quality of sexual life in women with heart failure.

Background

Symptoms of heart failure may cause a decrease in sexual performance, sexual satisfaction and sexual desire.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted between December 2019 and June 22, 2020. The findings were reported according to the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines (n = 356).

Results

The majority of the participants had sexual dysfunction (84.8%), mainly a reduction in sexual desire. Participants had a mean SQOL‐F score of 75.49 ± 19.37. More than a quarter of the participants stated that they were afraid of dying during sex (29.2%). There were changes in sexual dysfunction based on the class of medications that participants used regularly. Almost all participants stated that they were never informed by nurses or other healthcare professionals about sex (98%). Menopausal women are seven times more likely to develop sexual dysfunction than non‐menopausal women (OR = 7.0, p < .001).

Conclusion

Women with heart failure are more likely to develop sexual dysfunction. Many factors affect sexual dysfunction and sexual quality of life. Therefore, nurses should take sexual dysfunction into account when caring for women with heart failure. They should monitor them for risk factors and side effects, draw up and implement plans to respond to problems.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Sexual dysfunction is quite high in women with heart failure. Nurses should encourage these patients to talk about sexual problems and provide sexual health education and counselling regardless of the level of their sexual problems.

Patient or Public Contribution

The patients evaluated the suitability of the questions at the pre‐application stage. We finalised the demographic questionnaires with their suggestions. The patients spent time filling out the questionnaires during the data collection phase and answered the questions sincerely.
The task coordination method of intelligence‐alliance innovation team of universities in Western China
Authors: Cao Qinwei , Meng Qiaoyu , Wang Can , Wang Jing , Duan Wanchun
Published: November 2022

To resolve the dilemma among a shortage of high‐end talents, low level of scientific research and a huge brain drain in western universities in China, we proposes a way out by building an intelligence‐alliance innovation team—a new interregional and multiagent cooperation mode. We identify major disagreements that hamper a fruitful collaboration, and then analyze reasons of such poor coordination. Given diversified backgrounds and different preferences of intelligence‐alliance innovation teams, we suggest multiagent group decision‐making as a method of seeking task coordination for participants in conflict and their problem‐solvers. Finally, a specific case is given to prove that this method can improve task coordination of intelligence‐alliance innovation teams, and that holistic feedback coordination may be the best scheme of task coordination for intelligence‐alliance innovation teams.
Effects of time pressure on tourists' sensory consumption via the mediating role of salient motivation
Authors: Ai Yijie , Pei Hongzhou
Published: November 2022

This article explores the effects of time pressure through an experiment together with a pre‐trip online survey. Through 405 samples, the results show that under time pressure, individuals prefer products or services with strong sensory stimulation in all five senses (i.e., gustatory, haptic, auditory, visual, and olfactory). Different from sensation seeking, sensory consumption is to measure preference for a certain sensory attribute of the same product. And salient motivation (i.e., desire for sensory contact) plays a mediating role in the effect of time pressure on strong sensory consumption. These findings provide insight into five sensory levels of consumer experience and put forward specific management implications for destinations.

Practical Applications

Time pressure is a common subjective experience in our daily life. To find out what kind of product or service individuals may prefer under time pressure is very necessary. Our findings are particularly concerned with sensory consumption in tourism scenarios. Given that individuals prefer strong sensory stimulation under time pressure, marketers should formulate appropriate sensory intensity to meet individuals' psychological needs. For example, in tourism scenarios, some limited‐time tourism projects could increase more strong sensory experience, and crowding attractions should be placed more strong sensory stimulations. And for travel software, 1‐day travel routes should be arranged with more strong sensory experience. This article, especially for the sensory consumption design of tourist destinations, provides practical guidance related to epidemics, busyness, and crowded attractions.
Impacts of Nile tilapia cage culture on water and bottom sediment quality: The ability of an eutrophic lake to absorb and dilute perturbations
Authors: Musa Safina , Aura Christopher Mulanda , Tomasson Tumi , Sigurgeirsson Ólafur , Thorarensen Helgi
Published: November 2022

Environmentally sustainable aquaculture depends on accurate understanding of the impacts of aquaculture‐derived organic matter (AOM) and the ability of aquaculture systems to absorb and dilute perturbations. To this end, the present study assessed the impacts of AOM from cage culture of Nile tilapia on the ecology of Lake Victoria, Kenya, using fish cages near Anyanga Beach in Siaya County from December 2018 to October 2019. Four locations were surveyed for organic loadings from cage cultures, located 0, 50, 150 and 500 m (as a control site) away from the cages. The cage aquaculture produced increased P and N concentrations near the cages and a decreased N:P molar ratio. These changes stimulated algal growth which, in turn, affected the water quality. The organic material accumulated on the bottom under the cages, increasing the benthic BOD (BOD, >10 mg/g), a sensitive indicator of the ecological footprint of the cage aquaculture. Further, the negative ORP observed in the benthic layer suggested anoxic bacterial metabolism, possibly causing build‐up of sulphides and methane. These changes altered the abundance and composition of both limnetic and benthic communities. At the beginning of the study, 22 zoobenthic taxa existed around the cages and 18 at the reference sites. Only 3 saprophilous taxa, chiefly gastropods (Physellaspp.), bivalves (Sphaeriumspp.) and oligochaetes (Tubifexspp.) were present at the cage site and 17 at the reference site at the end of the culture period. The Shannon diversity index exhibited a declining tendency with the length of culture period at the cage site, signifying a negative impact of aquaculture on biodiversity. The water quality recovery after cage disturbance is rapid (<4 months), noting there was no significant difference in the water quality recorded at the cage site and the other sampling sites after a fallow period of 4 months. However, the recovery of the sediment and meiofauna was far from complete at the end of this period. Moving the cages slightly (50–100 m) away from the former location may allow the benthic communities to recover and alleviate the problem. Further, the fallowing period, particularly for the Anyanga Beach site, should be extended from four to at least 5 months to allow for the environment to recover. With the rapid increase of cage fish farming in the African Great Lakes Region and with the potential for its occurrence in other lakes, there is a need to develop regulations to guide the industry, as well as the need for continuous monitoring of the environment, in order to provide information to guide investments and ensure sustainable cage farming.
Understanding maternal food choice for preschool children across urban–rural settings in Vietnam
Authors: Duong Cam , Jenkins Mica , Pyo Euisun , Nguyen Phuong Hong , Huynh Tuyen , Nguyen‐Viet Hung , Young Melissa F. , Ramakrishnan Usha
Published: November 2022

Improving diet quality of preschool children is challenging in countries undergoing food environment and nutrition transition. However, few studies have sought to understand how mothers in these countries decide what and how to feed their children. This study aims to explore maternal experiences, perspectives and beliefs when making food choice decisions for preschool children in urban, peri‐urban and rural areas in northern Vietnam. Two focus group discussions and 24 in‐depth interviews were carried out and analysed using thematic analysis. The results showed that mothers across the urban–rural spectrum shared the intention to feed children safe, nutritious food for better health and weight gain while satisfying child food preferences to improve appetite and eating enjoyment. These food choice intentions were embedded within family food traditions, whereby mothers emphasised nutritious food and adopted strict feeding styles during lunch and dinner but were flexible and accommodating of child preferences during breakfast and side meals. These intentions were also embedded within the physical food environment, which provided a mix of healthy and unhealthy food through informal food retailers. Despite these intentions, mothers faced financial constraints and difficulties in managing children's refusal to chew, changes in eating mood and strong eating temperament. These findings support policies to limit the presence of unhealthy food in informal food retail and encourage meal‐specific feeding strategies to help children enjoy nutritious food, transition from soft to textured food and become more cooperative during mealtime.