bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Electronic Word of Mouth Communication and Destination Image on Behavioural Intentions: The Case of Eskişehir Turkey
Authors: KARACAOĞLU Sila
Published: September 2021

Electronic word of mouth is an important concept in the tourism industry since sharing information and experiences on various online platforms can affect tourists’ perceived destination image and behavioural intentions. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between electronic word of mouth, destination image and behavioural intentions in the context of Eskişehir case. The sampling technique used was non-probability sampling with both purposive sampling and convenience sampling. In this context, the created questionnaire form; in various digital platforms; was presented to the people who visited Eskişehir in the last 3 years. Data were collected from 392 domestic tourists between December 2020-January 2021. The socio-demographic data obtained from the participants was interpreted by calculating the frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation values from descriptive statistics. The top three digital platforms where the participants read/watch the most travel reviews on the internet are respectively; Instagram, Tripadvisor, and various personal travel blogs. Regression analysis with the help of SPSS program was used to test the hypotheses in the model created for the relationship between variables. The findings of the study show that eWOM has positive and significant results on both destination imageand behavioural intentions. Also, the destination imagehas a positive and significant influence on future behavioural intentions.
Coaching in organizations: what is the scientific evidence about its effectiveness?
Authors: Bueno Natassia , Borges-Andrade Jairo
Published: September 2021

The individual coaching process is a growing intervention used in work organizations. The investment in this tool is justified by the belief that a worker can develop skills, change behaviors, and achieve goals with the help of a professional coach. This would result in better individual and organizational performance. However, little is known about the scientific basis of its effectiveness. This study sought to search, in the scientific literature, about what is known with respect to the effectiveness of individual coaching processes in the work context. From the analysis of nineteen scientific papers published, using a method of rapid systematic review, the results suggested little scientific evidence on the effectiveness of coaching. There is a need to conduct more empirical studies with high quality and scientific methodological rigor, which may bring more scientific evidence and greater robustness and reliability for research results in this field.
From the errors and horrors of psychology at work to the geopolitics of its discourses and practices
Authors: Pulido Hernán Camilo
Published: September 2021

In light of the proposals to examine psychology beyond its disciplinary limits, this article considers the relationship psychology establishes with the world ofwork. First of all, this article describes some central elements of these ways of conducting critical analysis. Common objections that are formulated to industrial/organizational psychology are put into perspective. Additionally, proposals that are constituted in counter-psychologies are analyzed. Finally, some alternatives are suggested that should continue to be developed as possibilities that psychological criticism allows for when academic issues are framed internationally and countries assumed as producers and consumers of psychological objects.
Los docentes de Telebachilleratos Comunitarios, perfiles que orientan la práctica y flexibilización de los procesos formativos
Authors:   Departamento de Educación de la Universidad de Guanajuato, México, Estrada Ruiz Marcos Jacobo , Alejo López Sergio Jacinto ,   Departamento de Ingeniería Agroindustrial de la Universidad de Guanajuato, México
Published: September 2021

Este artículo presenta resultados de una investigación que tuvo como objetivo analizar el perfil y las condiciones de trabajo de los docentes que integran los Telebachilleratos Comunitarios (TBC) en Guanajuato, México. Particularmente nos concentramos en responder preguntas referentes al perfil de estos y su relación con el tipo de docencia asumida, así como la forma en que ese perfil y el proceso de incorporación al TBC condiciona parte de sus resultados. Se siguió el modelo CIPP (Context, Input, Process, Product) para la construcción de los instrumentos y se asumió un enfoque cualitativo desde el que se priorizaron estrategias interpretativas. Se presenta información obtenida mediante entrevistas a profundidad, realizadas a docentes de los TBC de dos municipios del estado de Guanajuato. Entre otros resultados, se caracteriza a estas instituciones como una opción educativa marcada por la precariedad. También se muestra cómo el perfil de los docentes orienta la práctica de estos y el tipo de trabajo que realizan en el aula, impactando en los procesos formativos de los estudiantes, teniendo como característica la flexibilización de tales procesos.
ANALISIS PENERIMAAN PENGGUNA E-RAPOR SMP MENGGUNAKAN EXTENDED TECHNOLOGY ACCEPTANCE MODEL
Authors: Gunawan Gunawan , Zulkarnain Muhammad Rizki
Published: September 2021

This study aims to analyze the acceptance of junior high school e-Rapor users using Extended Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) by including Subjective Norms factor in the model. The research subjects were 60 e-Rapor users at public junior high school in Banjarmasin. Data collection instrument in the form of questionnaire consisting of 17 points of statement and using 5 point-Likert scale. The research data was analyzed using Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with the assistance of SmartPLS 3.3.2 software. Based on the results of the study, it is known that Attitude towards Using Technology has a directly significant influence on the Behavioral Intention to use e-Rapor. On the contrary, Subjective Norms do not have a directly significant influence on the Behavioral Intention.
ANALISIS TINGKAT KEMATANGAN SISTEM INFORMASI MANAJEMEN AKADEMIK DAN KEMAHASISWAAN IAIN PALANGKA RAYA MENGGUNAKAN COBIT 5
Authors: Pamungkas Sapto , Kusrini Kusrini , Prasetio Agung Budi
Published: September 2021

The use of Information Technology (IT) at a university is needed at this time. There are many advantages in using IT and have a good impact on a university. The use of IT in a university has different roles according to their needs. The utilization of IT in Higher Education theoretically provides appropriate and efficient administration systems (Fernandes Andry and Christianto, 2018). IAIN Palangka Raya is one of the universities that has implemented IT, in this case, the academic and student management information system. The information system at IAIN Palangka Raya is one of the IT applications that is often used to carry out IT governance, however, there are several problems that occur in the information system, including features or tools that are not yet functional. For this reason, the researcher will analyze the information system to get the level of maturity and recommendations so that IAIN Palangka Raya can follow up on the results of this analysis and improve it to get the goal of good information system governance. In this study, the COBIT 5 framework is used with a focus on the EDM domain (Evaluate, Direct, and Monitor). The results of the analysis showed that the capability level was 2.86 (established), which means that the process was carried out, achieved goals, and well managed. With a balance value of 0.96, which means that the expected distance with the current distance is not too far so that features or tools that are not yet functioning are functional. So that the academic and student management information system of IAIN Palangka Raya runs according to its goals and is better.
ANALISIS PEMANFAATAN PLATFORM E-LEARNING MENGGUNAKAN FRAMEWORK COBIT 5 PADA DOMAIN DSS
Authors: Afifah Ummul Fitri , Verdian Ihsan
Published: September 2021

This study aims to determine the level of capability of using E-Learning at Universal University. In this study, the measurement of capability level uses the COBIT 5 framework which is devoted to the DSS05 (Manage Security Services) process. The data from this study were obtained from observations and interviews. The results show that the capability level in the DSS05 (Manage Security Services) process reached level 1 with a rating level of Largely achieved (57.8%). After knowing the level of capability at the E-Learning level,recommendations for improvement are made based on the acquisition of each value. The recommendations for improvement are the creation of SOPs related to E-Learning security at Universal University, the establishment of information technology asset inventory management, and the procurement of intrusion detection tools.
EXPLANATION OF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS’ SMOKING BEHAVIOR: A STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODEL APPROACH WITH THE THEORY OF PLANNED BEHAVIOR
Authors: Sultan Acarli Dilek , Yaman Kasap Melek
Published: September 2021

Smoking is a worldwide problem that threatens people’s health. The average age of smokers has decreased with each passing day. Thus, studies focusing on preventing children or teenagers from starting smoking or studies aiming to help people quit smoking are one of the most effective ways of the fight against smoking. In order to prevent smoking behavior of young people it is necessary to thoroughly examine the reasons of such behavior. In this study, smoking behavior of high school students was examined in the framework of Planned Behavior Theory, which is a socio-psychological theory (TPB, Ajzen, 1985). With the structural equation model, which was constructed by taking TPB components into account, factors affecting students’ smoking behavior were determined. Theory of Planned Behavior has explained the smoking behaviors of the participants in 72%. It was seen that the most important TPB component that affects students’ behavior is attitude, which is followed by subjective norm and perceived behavior control, respectively. The results indicate that one should work on attitude first and foremost, and thus on behavioral beliefs in order to make changes in the students’ tendency to smoke, in other words, in their behavior. Key words: health education, smoking, structural equation model, theory of planned behavior.
ATTITUDES OF PRE-SERVICE SCIENCE TEACHERS TOWARDS EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH AND THEIR SCIENCE TEACHING EFFICACY BELIEFS IN TURKEY
Authors: Ilhan Nail , Yilmaz Zeynel Abidin , Dede Hülya
Published: September 2021

One of the most necessary teaching competencies for science teachers concerns their self-efficacy belief. It is also necessary for teachers to benefit from educational research in order to develop their science teaching efficacy beliefs. However, studies are restricted. This study aims to analyze the attitudes of pre-service science teachers towards educational research and their science teaching efficacy beliefs, and the relationship between the two variables according to some demographical (academic achievement, gender, and the type of high school they attended). The study was conducted according to the survey research design. Sample of the study includes 517 pre-service science teachers (final year students) at five different universities in Turkey. ‘Teachers Attitude Scale towards Educational Research [TASTER]’ and ‘Science Teaching Efficacy Belief Instrument [STEBI]’ were used as data collection tools. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 18.0. Analysis of the data has revealed that there is a relationship between the attitudes of the pre-service science teachers towards educational research and their science teaching efficacy belief.
Key words: attitude, educational research, self-efficacy, pre-service science teacher.
A RISK PERCEPTION MODEL OF CLIMATE CHANGE FOR UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Authors: Fang Shyang-Chyuan , Yu Tai-Yi
Published: September 2021

This study establishes a behavioral model for university students by utilizing the theories of planned behavior and value-belief-norm, and proposes key latent variables for risk perception toward climate change to establish a structural equation model. Partial least squares analyses and three indicators are utilized to test the reliability, validity, and goodness-of-fit of the model. This study establishes a mixed model with formative and reflective indicators, and assesses both environmental concern and personality traits as formative indicators. Using standardized path coefficients, eight out of 10 paths demonstrate statistical significance, indicating that environmental value and environmental attitudes influence environmental behavior. Three of the five included personality traits (e.g., agreeableness, extraversion, and openness) demonstrate a positive correlation with environmental behavior and environmental attributes. Individuals’ risk perception positively influences their environmental value, environmental attitudes, and environmental behavior with respect to climate change.
Keywords: climate change, environmental behavior, partial least square, personality trait.
Nutrizione parenterale intradialitica in pazienti con malnutrizione moderata-severa: studio prospettico osservazionale multicentrico
Authors: Sessa Concetto , Morale Walter , Reina Antonino , Battaglia Giorgio , La Rosa Sandra , Puliatti Daniela , Seminara Giuseppe , Zanoli Luca
Published: September 2021

Dialysis patients have a wide range of pathologies that contribute to their frailty. Maintaining a good nutritional status is useful to prevent and treat the so-called Protein-Energy Wasting (PEW), a complex clinical-laboratory condition in which a protein-energy depletion occurs. Adherence to a proper nutritional therapy in CKD requires considerable effort from both patients and health personnel (doctors and nurses). In order to slow down the effects of malnutrition and the disasters that complicate PEW, nephrologists can use supplementation products. In our observational, prospective, multicentre study, we administered an intradialytic parenteral nutrition of a three-compartment emulsion for intravenous infusion through an infusion pump connected to the venous line. After 12 weeks of treatment, subjects with severe malnutrition were reduced from 61.1% to 33.3%, serum creatinine increased by 16% (from 6.00 ± 1.48 mg/dL to 6.98 ± 2.46 mg/dL; P < 0.001), total protein and albumin levels respectively by 13% (from 5.46 ± 0.63 g/dL to 6.19 ± 0.66 g/dL; P < 0.001) and 19% (from 2.70 ± 0.48 g/dL to 3.20 ± 0.57 g/dL; P < 0.001), body weight by 3% (from 55.7 ± 13.2 kg to 57.6 ± 13.0 kg; P < 0.001).
Динамика публикаций Республики Беларусь в Scopus. Компаративный анализ
Authors: Галынский Владимир Михайлович
Published: September 2021

Подготовлен датасет публикаций по всем странам за 25 лет в наукометрической базе данных Scopus, приведена статистика по Республике Беларусь, сделано сравнение с общемировыми цифрами. Все заинтересованные, используя стандартный функционал табличного процессора, могут самостоятельно создать фильтр и выборку информации из датасета, чтобы получить желаемые данные.
DSpace – опыт самостоятельного аудита и обновления сервиса с небольшой внешней поддержкой
Authors: Ефимов Александр Александрович
Published: September 2021

В статье описывается опыт обновления Электронной библиотеки Белорусского государственного технологического университета (БГТУ), произведенный собственными силами сотрудников БГТУ с методической поддержкой внешнего эксперта. Процесс обновления разделен на этапы, включающие в себя аудит сервиса, устранение проблем, обнаруженных в процессе аудита, планирование обновления, непосредственно обновление, фиксацию результатов, создание отчета.
Кадры библиотеки современного университета: ответить на вызовы времени
Authors: Лопатина Наталья Викторовна
Published: September 2021

В докладе проектируется компетентностная модель специалиста университетской библиотеки. Профессиональные и личностностные компетенции моделируются в русле идеологии прикладной информатики как особого научно-практического направления. Рассматриваются проблемы подготовки специалистов для университетской библиотеки. Особое внимание уделяется динамике компетентностных требований к сотрудникам вузовских библиотек в условиях цифровой трансформации образования.
La frontera de Reynosa y los albergues de acogida para migrantes mexicanos deportados. Un primer acercamiento
Authors: Ramos García Jacqueline Alejandra , Villarreal Sotelo Karla , Vargas Orozco Cynthia Marisol
Published: September 2021

For decades, the study of migrations in Mexico has awakened countless publications in different specialties as a country of transit, reception, expulsion, and return of migrants. This article focuses on the deportations of Mexicans from the United States, through the border cities, taking as the place of study the city of Reynosa, Tamaulipas. It also deals with the operating of two shelters that provide space and basic services for deportees for a short period, the Casa del Migrante Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe and Senda de Vida. Altogether, this will help to have a better understanding of the migratory phenomenon from social history in border regions that have had less prominence, but which are also important for the knowledge of our reality.
Why agonists should stop discussing with deliberative theorists
Authors: Tryggvason Ásgeir
Published: September 2021

No abstract available.
Circular RNA 0006349 Augments Glycolysis and Malignance of Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Cells Through the microRNA-98/MKP1 Axis
Authors: Qin Chu , Lu Rongguo , Yuan Minyu , Zhao Rui , Zhou Huiya , Fan Xiaodong , Yin Bo , Yu Haoda , Bian Tao
Published: September 2021

Background: The involvement of dysregulated circular RNAs (circRNAs) in human diseases has been increasingly recognized. In this study, we focused on the function of a newly screened circRNA, circ_0006349, in the progression of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and the molecules of action.

Methods: The NSCLC circRNA dataset GSE101684, microRNA (miRNA) dataset GSE29250, and mRNA dataset GSE51852 obtained from the GEO database were used to identify the differentially expressed genes in NSCLC samples. Tumor and normal tissues were collected from 59 patients with NSCLC. The expression of circ_0006349, miR-98, and MAP kinase phosphatase 1 (MKP1) in collected tissue samples and in acquired cells was determined. The binding relationships between miR-98 and circ_0006349/MKP1 were predicted and validated. Altered expression of circ_0006349, miR-98, and MKP1 was introduced in NSCLC cells to examine their roles in cell growth, apoptosis, and glycolysis.

Results: Circ_0006349 and MKP1 were upregulated, and miR-98 was poorly expressed in the collected tumor tissues and the acquired NSCLC cell lines. Circ_0006349 was identified as a sponge for miR-98 to elevate MKP1 expression. Silencing of circ_0006349 suppressed proliferation and increased apoptosis of Calu-3 and H1299 cells, and it reduced glycolysis, glucose uptake, and the production of lactate in cells. Upon circ_0006349 knockdown, further downregulation of miR-98 or upregulation of MKP1 restored the malignant behaviors of cells.

Conclusion: This research demonstrated that circ_0006349 derepressed MKP1 expression by absorbing miR-98, which augmented the proliferation and glycolysis of NSCLC cells and promoted cancer development.
Acute Lower Respiratory Tract Infection Increased the Risk of Cardiovascular Events and All-Cause Mortality in Elderly Patients With Stable Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Zhao Xiaoqian , Liu Yuan , Zhang Jinping , Fu Shihui , Song Chengyun , Bai Yongyi , Luo Leiming
Published: September 2021

Objective:To investigate the predictors of acute cardiovascular events within 90 days after an acute lower respiratory tract infection (ALRTI) in elderly patients with stable coronary artery disease (sCAD).

Methods:Observational analyses were conducted in a prospective cohort of the elderly with sCAD, during 90 days after they were hospitalized for ALRTI. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify predictors for acute cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality.

Results:The present study comprised 426 patients with sCAD (median age: 88 years; IQR: 84–91; range: 72–102). Among these patients, 257 suffering from ALRTI were enrolled in the infection group. Meanwhile, 169 patients who did not suffer from ALRTI were regarded as the non-infection group. Compared with the non-infection group, patients in the infection group had a higher incidence of acute cardiovascular events (31.9 vs. 13.6%,p< 0.001) and all-cause mortality (13.2 vs. 1.8%,p< 0.001) during the 90-day follow-up. In addition, in the infection group, the incidence of cardiovascular events was also higher than those in the non-infection group during the 7-day and 30-day follow-up (10.9 vs. 2.4%,p= 0.001; 20.6 vs. 6.5%,p< 0.001). The same difference in the incidence of all-cause mortality during 7 and 30 days (1.2 vs. 0%,p= 0.028; 3.9 vs. 0.6%,p= 0.021) was observed between the two groups. Furthermore, multiple regression analysis found that ALRTI was independently associated with increased risk of cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality in elderly patients with sCAD.

Conclusion:In elderly patients with sCAD, ALRTI was an independent predictor for both cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality.
To Be or Not To Be Vaccinated: That Is a Question in Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Zhou Qian , Zhou Ran , Yang Haojun , Yang Huan
Published: September 2021

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease characterized by muscle weakness and abnormal fatigability due to the antibodies against postsynaptic receptors. Despite the individual discrepancy, patients with MG share common muscle weakness, autoimmune dysfunction, and immunosuppressive treatment, which predispose them to infections that can trigger or exacerbate MG. Vaccination, as a mainstay of prophylaxis, is a major management strategy. However, the past years have seen growth in vaccine hesitancy, owing to safety and efficacy concerns. Ironically, vaccines, serving as an essential and effective means of defense, may induce similar immune cross-reactivity to what they are meant to prevent. Herein, we outline the progress in vaccination, review the current status, and postulate the clinical association among MG, vaccination, and immunosuppression. We also address safety and efficacy concerns of vaccination in MG, in relation to COVID-19. Since only a handful of studies have reported vaccination in individuals with MG, we further review the current clinical studies and guidelines in rheumatic diseases. Overall, our reviews offer a reference to guide future vaccine clinical decision-making and improve the management of MG patients.
Malaria Transmission, Vector Diversity, and Insecticide Resistance at a Peri-Urban Site in the Forest Zone of Ghana
Authors: Akuamoah-Boateng Yaw , Brenyah Ruth C. , Kwarteng Sandra A. , Obuam Patrick , Owusu-Frimpong Isaac , Agyapong Addo K. , Badu Kingsley
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Recent surge ofAnophelesresistance to major classes of World Health Organization (WHO)-approved insecticides globally necessitates the need for information about local malaria vector populations. It is believed that insecticide efficacy loss may lead to operational failure of control interventions and an increase in malaria infection transmission. We investigated the susceptibility levels of malaria vectors to all classes of WHO-approved vector control insecticides and described the dynamics of malaria transmission in a peri-urban setting.

Methods

Fit 3–5-day-old adults that emerged fromAnopheleslarvae collected from several different sites in the study area were subjected to the WHO bioassay for detecting insecticide resistance. The knockdown resistance gene (kdr) mutations within the vector populations were detected using PCR. Entomological inoculation rates were determined using the human landing catch technique andPlasmodium falciparumcircumsporozoite ELISA.

Results

The malaria vectors from the study area were resistant to all classes of insecticides tested. Out of the 284Anophelescomplex specimen assayed for the resistance study, 265 (93.30%) were identified asAnopheles gambiae s.s.The kdr gene was detected in 90% of theAnopheles gambiae s.s.assayed. In an area whereAnopheles coluzziiresistance to insecticides had never been reported, the kdr gene was detected in 78% of theAnopheles coluzziisampled. The entomological inoculation rate (EIR) for the dry season was 1.44 ib/m/n, whereas the EIR for the rainy season was 2.69 ib/m/n.

Conclusions

This study provides information on the high parasite inoculation rate and insecticide resistance of malaria vectors in a peri-urban community, which is critical in the development of an insecticide resistance management program for the community.
The Synthesis of Unpaired Underwater Images for Monocular Underwater Depth Prediction
Authors: Zhao Qi , Zheng Ziqiang , Zeng Huimin , Yu Zhibin , Zheng Haiyong , Zheng Bing
Published: September 2021

Underwater depth prediction plays an important role in underwater vision research. Because of the complex underwater environment, it is extremely difficult and expensive to obtain underwater datasets with reliable depth annotation. Thus, underwater depth map estimation with a data-driven manner is still a challenging task. To tackle this problem, we propose an end-to-end system including two different modules for underwater image synthesis and underwater depth map estimation, respectively. The former module aims to translate the hazy in-air RGB-D images to multi-style realistic synthetic underwater images while retaining the objects and the structural information of the input images. Then we construct a semi-real RGB-D underwater dataset using the synthesized underwater images and the original corresponding depth maps. We conduct supervised learning to perform depth estimation through the pseudo paired underwater RGB-D images. Comprehensive experiments have demonstrated that the proposed method can generate multiple realistic underwater images with high fidelity, which can be applied to enhance the performance of monocular underwater image depth estimation. Furthermore, the trained depth estimation model can be applied to real underwater image depth map estimation. We will release our codes and experimental setting in https://github.com/ZHAOQIII/UW_depth.
Roles of Iron Limitation in Phytoplankton Dynamics in the Western and Eastern Subarctic Pacific
Authors: Zhang Hao-Ran , Wang Yuntao , Xiu Peng , Qi Yiquan , Chai Fei
Published: September 2021

The subarctic Pacific is one of the major high-nitrate, low-chlorophyll (HNLC) regions where marine productivity is greatly limited by the supply of iron (Fe) in the region. There is a distinct seasonal difference in the chlorophyll concentrations of the east and west sides of the subarctic Pacific because of the differences in their driving mechanisms. In the western subarctic Pacific, two chlorophyll concentration peaks occur: the peak in spring and early summer is dominated by diatoms, while the peak in late summer and autumn is dominated by small phytoplankton. In the eastern subarctic Pacific, a single chlorophyll concentration peak occurs in late summer, while small phytoplankton dominate throughout the year. In this study, two one-dimensional (1D) physical–biological models with Fe cycles were applied to Ocean Station K2 (Stn. K2) in the western subarctic Pacific and Ocean Station Papa (Stn. Papa) in the eastern subarctic Pacific. These models were used to study the role of Fe limitation in regulating the seasonal differences in phytoplankton populations by reproducing the seasonal variability in ocean properties in each region. The results were reasonably comparable with observational data, i.e., cruise and Biogeochemical-Argo data, showing that the difference in bioavailable Fe (BFe) between Stn. K2 and Stn. Papa played a dominant role in controlling the respective seasonal variabilities of diatom and small phytoplankton growth. At Stn. Papa, there was less BFe, and the Fe limitation of diatom growth was two times as strong as that at Stn. K2; however, the difference in the Fe limitation of small phytoplankton growth between these two regions was relatively small. At Stn. K2, the decrease in BFe during summer reduced the growth rate of diatoms, which led to a rapid reduction in diatom biomass. Simultaneously, the decrease in BFe had little impact on small phytoplankton growth, which helped maintain the relatively high small phytoplankton biomass until autumn. The experiments that stimulated a further increase in atmospheric Fe deposition also showed that the responses of phytoplankton primary production in the eastern subarctic Pacific were stronger than those in the western subarctic Pacific but contributed little to primary production, as the Fe limitation of phytoplankton growth was replaced by macronutrient limitation.
Combination of 0.05% Azelastine and 0.1% Tacrolimus Eye Drops in Children With Vernal Keratoconjunctivitis: A Prospective Study
Authors: Chen Minjie , Wei Anji , Ke Bilian , Zou Jun , Gong Lan , Wang Yan , Zhang Chaoran , Xu Jianjiang , Yin Jia , Hong Jiaxu
Published: September 2021

Aims: To compare the efficacy of the combination of 0. 05% azelastine and 0.1% tacrolimus eye drops with 0.1% tacrolimus monotherapy in pediatric patients with vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC).

Methods: Prospective study. Seventy-six patients with VKC were randomized 1:1 into monotherapy group with 0.1% tacrolimus or combination therapy group with 0.1% tacrolimus and 0.05% azelastine. The Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores and the signs of conjunctival hyperemia, corneal involvement, and palpebral conjunctiva papillae were assessed at baseline and at 1, 2, and 6 weeks after treatment.

Results: Two groups were comparable in age, sex, duration of VKC, OSDI, and clinical signs of VKC at baseline. Significant improvements in OSDI score and clinical signs were observed in both groups at all follow-up visits (all p < 0.001), compared with baseline. The combination therapy group showed a larger decrease in OSDI score from baseline (10.30 ± 0.9) compared with monotherapy group (7.30 ± 0.7, p =0.0085) at 1 week. Greater improvements in conjunctival hyperemia and conjunctival papillae were identified in the combination therapy group, compared with in the monotherapy group, at all follow-up visits (all p < 0.05). The corneal involvement scores in the combination group is significantly lower than the monotherapy group at 2 weeks after the treatment (p = 0.0488). No severe adverse effect was found in either group during the study.

Conclusions: Compared with a monotherapy of 0.1% tacrolimus, the combination of 0.05% azelastine and 0.1% tacrolimus eye drops lead to faster and greater improvements in clinical signs and symptoms of vernal keratoconjunctivitis in pediatric patients.
Multivariate Analysis in Microbiome Description: Correlation of Human Gut Protein Degraders, Metabolites, and Predicted Metabolic Functions
Authors: Raimondi Stefano , Calvini Rosalba , Candeliere Francesco , Leonardi Alan , Ulrici Alessandro , Rossi Maddalena , Amaretti Alberto
Published: September 2021

Protein catabolism by intestinal bacteria is infamous for releasing many harmful compounds, negatively affecting the health status, both locally and systemically. In a previous study, we enriched in protein degraders the fecal microbiota of five subjects, utilizing a medium containing protein and peptides as sole fermentable substrates and we monitored their evolution by 16S rRNA gene profiling. In the present study, we fused the microbiome data and the data obtained by the analysis of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the headspace of the cultures. Then, we utilized ANOVA simultaneous component analysis (ASCA) to establish a relationship between metabolites and bacteria. In particular, ASCA allowed to separately assess the effect of subject, time, inoculum concentration, and their binary interactions on both microbiome and volatilome data. All the ASCA submodels pointed out a consistent association between indole and Escherichia–Shigella, and the relationship of butyric, 3-methyl butanoic, and benzenepropanoic acids with some bacterial taxa that were major determinants of cultures at 6 h, such as Lachnoclostridiaceae (Lachnoclostridium), Clostridiaceae (Clostridium sensu stricto), and Sutterellaceae (Sutterella and Parasutterella). The metagenome reconstruction with PICRUSt2 and its functional annotation indicated that enrichment in a protein-based medium affected the richness and diversity of functional profiles, in the face of a decrease of richness and evenness of the microbial community. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) effect size indicated a positive differential abundance (p < 0.05) for the modules of amino acid catabolism that may be at the basis of the changes of VOC profile. In particular, predicted genes encoding functions belonging to the superpathways of ornithine, arginine, and putrescine transformation to GABA and eventually to succinyl-CoA, of methionine degradation, and various routes of breakdown of aromatic compounds yielding succinyl-CoA or acetyl-CoA became significantly more abundant in the metagenome of the bacterial community.
Recent Advances in Repurposing Disulfiram and Disulfiram Derivatives as Copper-Dependent Anticancer Agents
Authors: Kannappan Vinodh , Ali Misha , Small Benjamin , Rajendran Gowtham , Elzhenni Salena , Taj Hamza , Wang Weiguang , Dou Q. Ping
Published: September 2021

Copper (Cu) plays a pivotal role in cancer progression by acting as a co-factor that regulates the activity of many enzymes and structural proteins in cancer cells. Therefore, Cu-based complexes have been investigated as novel anticancer metallodrugs and are considered as a complementary strategy for currently used platinum agents with undesirable general toxicity. Due to the high failure rate and increased cost of new drugs, there is a global drive towards the repositioning of known drugs for cancer treatment in recent years. Disulfiram (DSF) is a first-line antialcoholism drug used in clinics for more than 65 yr. In combination with Cu, it has shown great potential as an anticancer drug by targeting a wide range of cancers. The reaction between DSF and Cu ions forms a copper diethyldithiocarbamate complex (Cu(DDC)2also known as CuET) which is the active, potent anticancer ingredient through inhibition of NF-κB and ubiquitin-proteasome system as well as alteration of the intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). Importantly, DSF/Cu inhibits several molecular targets related to drug resistance, stemness, angiogenesis and metastasis and is thus considered as a novel strategy for overcoming tumour recurrence and relapse in patients. Despite its excellent anticancer efficacy, DSF has proven unsuccessful in several cancer clinical trials. This is likely due to the poor stability, rapid metabolism and/or short plasma half-life of the currently used oral version of DSF and the inability to form Cu(DDC)2at relevant concentrations in tumour tissues. Here, we summarize the scientific rationale, molecular targets, and mechanisms of action of DSF/Cu in cancer cells and the outcomes of oral DSF ± Cu in cancer clinical trials. We will focus on the novel insights on harnessing the immune system and hypoxic microenvironment using DSF/Cu complex and discuss the emerging delivery strategies that can overcome the shortcomings of DSF-based anticancer therapies and provide opportunities for translation of DSF/Cu or its Cu(DDC)2complex into cancer therapeutics.
Sedation Mode During Endovascular Stroke Treatment in the Posterior Circulation—Is Conscious Sedation for Eligible Patients Feasible?
Authors: Weyland Charlotte Sabine , Chen Min , Potreck Arne , Jäger Laura Bettina , Seker Fatih , Schönenberger Silvia , Bendszus Martin , Möhlenbruch Markus
Published: September 2021

Background and Purpose: To compare safety and efficacy of conscious sedation (CS) vs. general anesthesia (GA) in endovascular stroke treatment (EST) of the posterior circulation (PC).

Methods: Retrospective single-center analysis of patients receiving EST for large-vessel occlusion (LVO) in PC between January 2015 and November 2020. Exclusion criteria were severe stroke syndromes (NIHSS > 20), decreased level of consciousness, intubation for transport, and second stroke within 3 months of follow-up. The primary endpoint was a favorable clinical outcome 90 days after stroke onset (mRS 0–2 or 3 if pre-stroke mRS 3). Secondary endpoints were the rate of EST failure and procedural complications.

Results: Of 111 included patients, 45/111 patients (40.5%) were treated under CS and 60/111 (54.0%) under GA. In 6/111 cases (5.4%), sedation mode was changed from CS to GA during EST. Patients treated under CS showed a lower mRS 90 days after stroke onset [mRS, median (IQR): 2.5 (1–4) CS vs. 3 (2–6) GA, p = 0.036] and a comparable rate of good outcome [good outcome, n (%): 19 (42.2) CS vs. 15 (32.6) GA, p = 0.311]. There was no difference in complication rates during EST (6.7% CS vs. 8.3% GA) or intracranial bleeding in follow-up imaging [n (%): 4 (8.9) CS vs. 7 (11.7) GA), p = 0.705]. The rate of successful target vessel recanalization did not differ (84.4% CS vs. 85.0 % GA).

Conclusions: In this retrospective study, EST of the posterior circulation under conscious sedation was for eligible patients comparably safe and effective to patients treated under general anesthesia.
Case Report: PRES-Like Syndrome With Reversible Cortical Blindness Associated With Essential Thrombocythemia
Authors: Li Ying , Miao Yuanfeng , Yu Meng , Zhu Ying , Liang Zeyin , Wang Zhaoxia , Peng Qing
Published: September 2021

Background: There are few reported cases of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) combined with essential thrombocythemia (ET). We report a case of PRES-like syndrome in ET.

Case Report: A 60-year-old man with a history of hypertension and thrombocythemia presented with progressive visual loss after waking up; and neurological examination showed pupils were 3 mm and equally reactive to light, which suggested cortical blindness. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed restricted diffusion in diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in the bilateral parietal and occipital lobes. Routine blood tests revealed a platelet count of 1,044 × 109/L. ET was diagnosed after exclusion of other causes. Electroencephalography (EEG) showed periodic triphasic waves in the occipital region. The lesions of the parietal and occipital lobes on MRI and periodic triphasic waves of EEG disappeared quickly, and patient's vision returned to normal after the treatment with hydroxyurea and sodium bicarbonate. The patient experienced hallucinatory palinopsia during the recovery of vision.

Conclusion: ET may be a risk factor for PRES.
Genetic Variations of CD40 and LTβR Genes Are Associated With Increased Susceptibility and Clinical Outcome of Non-Small-Cell Carcinoma Patients
Authors: Dimitrakopoulos Foteinos-Ioannis D. , Antonacopoulou Anna G. , Kottorou Anastasia E. , Kalofonou Melpomeni , Panagopoulos Nikolaos , Dougenis Dimitrios , Makatsoris Thomas , Tzelepi Vasiliki , Koutras Angelos , Kalofonos Haralabos P.
Published: September 2021

Background

Immune system-related receptors CD40 (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 5), BAFFR (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 13C), and LTβR (tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 3) play a pivotal role in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). To further evaluate their role in NSCLC, CD40 rs1883832 (T>C), BAFFR rs7290134 (A>G), and LTβR rs10849448 (A>G) single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were investigated regarding their impact in risk and clinical outcome of NSCLC patients.

Methods

The three selected SNPs were evaluated in 229 NSCLC patients and 299 healthy controls, while CD40, BAFFR, and LTβR protein expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry in 96 tumor specimens from NSCLC patients.

Results

In total, CD40 rs1883832 was associated with NSCLC risk, with the T allele, after adjusting for cofactors, being related to increased risk (p = 0.007; OR 1.701). Moreover, the CT genotype was associated with increased risk (p = 0.024; OR 1.606) and poorer 5-year overall survival (OS) after adjusting for cofactors (p = 0.001, HR 1.829), while CC was associated with higher CD40 expression in tumorous cells (p = 0.040) and in stromal cells (p = 0.036). In addition, AA homozygotes for the LTβR rs10849448 had increased risk for NSCLC in multivariate analysis (p = 0.008; OR, 2.106) and higher LTβR membranous expression (p = 0.035). Although BAFFR rs7290134 was associated with BAFFR membranous expression (p = 0.039), BAFFR rs7290134 was not associated with neither the disease risk nor the prognosis of NSCLC patients.

Conclusions

In conclusion, CD40 rs1883832 and LTβR rs10849448 seem to be associated with increased risk for NSCLC, while CD40 rs1883832 is also associated with OS of patients with NSCLC.
MicroRNAs as Diagnostic Biomarkers in Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zheng Xiaohong , Li Parker , Dong Qianqian , Duan Yihong , Yang Shoubo , Cai Zehao , Chen Feng , Li Wenbin
Published: September 2021

Background

Diagnosing primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) remains a challenge. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are promising noninvasive markers for the identification of PCNSL. The present study aims to assess the diagnostic value of miRNAs for PCNSL patients as biomarkers.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library from inception to January 31, 2021. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), together with the summary receiver operator characteristic (SROC) curve, and the area under the SROC curve (AUC) value were used to estimate the overall diagnostic performance. We used Q statistic and I2 to test heterogeneity and used subgroup analyses to investigate the source of heterogeneity. The statistical analyses were independently performed by two investigators using Stata 14.0 and Revman 5.3.

Results

In total, 11 studies from 6 records were included in the current meta-analysis with 281 PCNSL patients and 367 controls. Our statistical analysis demonstrated that the pooled sensitivity, specificity, PLR, NLR, DOR, and AUC were 0.91 (95% CI 0.84–0.95), 0.88 (95% CI 0.84–0.91), 7.48 (95% CI 5.71–9.78), 0.11 (95% CI 0.06–0.19), 70 (95% CI 35–142), and 0.90 (95% CI 0.87–0.92), respectively. The studies had substantial heterogeneity (I2 = 54%, 95% CI 0–100). Two subgroup analyses were conducted based on the type of specimen and miRNAs profiled.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis indicated that miRNAs were suitable as noninvasive diagnostic biomarkers for PCNSL with high accuracy. In addition, both cerebrospinal fluid-based and blood-based miRNAs assays for PCNSL detection were considered reliable for clinical application. MicroRNA-21 assays also seemed to be more accurate in the diagnosis of PCNSL. Good quality studies with large samples should be conducted to verify our results.
Retrieving Linear and Nonlinear Optical Dispersions of Matter: Combined Experiment-Numerical Ellipsometry in Silicon, Gold and Indium Tin Oxide
Authors: Rodríguez-Suné L. , Trull J. , Akozbek N. , de Ceglia D. , Vincenti M. A. , Scalora M. , Cojocaru C.
Published: September 2021

The predominant methods currently used to determine nonlinear optical constants like the nonlinear refractive index n2 or the third order susceptibility χ(3) rely mostly on experimental, open and closed z-scan techniques and beam deflection methods. While these methods work well when the linear absorption is relatively small or negligible, the retrieval process is more complicated for a strongly scattering, dispersive or absorbing medium. The study of optics at the nanoscale in the picosecond or femtosecond laser pulsed regimes demands the development of new theoretical tools, and diverse experimental approaches, to extract and verify both linear and nonlinear optical dispersions exhibited by matter, especially when material constituents are fashioned into nanostructures of arbitrary shape. We present a practical, combined experimental and theoretical approach based on the hydrodynamic model that uses experimental results of harmonic generation conversion efficiencies to retrieve complex, nonlinear dispersion curves, not necessarily only for third order processes. We provide examples for materials that are of special interest to nanophotonics, for example, silicon, gold, and indium tin oxide (ITO), which displays nonlocal effects and a zero-crossing of the real part of the dielectric constant. The results for silicon and gold compare well with analytical predictions of nonlinear dispersion based on the nonlinear oscillator model. Based on our assessment of third harmonic generation conversion efficiencies in silicon, we predict χω(3) and χ3ω(3) are of order 10−17 (m/V)2 in the visible and near IR ranges, with respective peaks of 10−14 (m/V)2 and 10−16 (m/V)2 in the UV range. Similarly, gold’s χω(3) and χ3ω(3) are of order 10−17–10−16 (m/V)2, and predict χω(3)∼10−17(m/V)2 and χ3ω(3)∼10−18(m/V)2 for ITO. These results clearly suggest that judicious exploitation of the nonlinear dispersion of ordinary semiconductors has the potential to transform device physics in spectral regions that extend well into the UV range.
Sensing and Biosensing in the World of Autonomous Machines and Intelligent Systems
Authors: Oliveira Osvaldo N. , Oliveira Maria Cristina F.
Published: September 2021

In this paper we discuss how nanotech-based sensors and biosensors are providing the data for autonomous machines and intelligent systems, using two metaphors to exemplify the convergence between nanotechnology and artificial intelligence (AI). These are related to sensors to mimic the five human senses, and integration of data from varied sources and natures into an intelligent system to manage autonomous services, as in a train station.
Pressure Estimation of the Electro-Hydraulic Brake System Based on Signal Fusion
Authors: Shi Biaofei , Xiong Lu , Yu Zhuoping
Published: September 2021

At present, the master cylinder pressure estimation algorithm (MCPE) of electro-hydraulic brake systems (EHB) based on vehicle dynamics has the disadvantages of poor condition adaptability, and there are delays and noise in the estimated pressure; however, the MCPE based on the characteristics of an EHB (i.e., the pressure–position relationship) is not robust enough to prevent brake pad wear. For the above reasons, neither method be applied to engineering. In this regard, this article proposes a MCPE that is based on signal fusion. First, a five-degree-of-freedom (5-DOF) vehicle model that includes longitudinal motion, lateral motion, yaw motion, and front and rear wheel rotation is established. Based on this, an algebraic expression for MCPE is derived, which extends the MCPE from a straight condition to a steering condition. Real vehicle tests show that the MCPE based on the 5-DOF vehicle model can effectively estimate the brake pressure in both straight and steering conditions. Second, the relationship between the hydraulic pressure and the rack position in the EHB is tested under different brake pad wear levels, and the results show that the pressure–position relationship will change as the brake pad is worn down, so the pressure estimated by the pressure–position model based on fixed parameters is not robust. Third, a MCPE based on the fusion the above two MCPEs through the recursive least squares algorithm (RLS) is proposed, in which the pressure-position model can be updated online by vehicle dynamics and the final estimated pressure is calculated based on the updated pressure–position model. Finally, several simulations based on vehicle test data demonstrate that the fusion-based MCPE can estimate the brake pressure accurately and smoothly with little delay and is robust enough to prevent brake pad wear. In addition, by setting the enabling conditions of RLS, the fusion-based MCPE can switch between driving and parking smoothly; thus, the fusion-based MCPE can be applied to all working conditions.