bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating people’s attitudes towards participating in longitudinal health research: an intersectionality-informed perspective
Authors: Merz Sibille , Jaehn Philipp , Pischon Tobias , Fischer Beate , Wirkner Kerstin , Rach Stefan , Guenther Kathrin , Obi Nadia , Holmberg Christine ,   the AdvanceGender Study Group, Bolte Gabriele , Mena Emily , Rommel Alexander , Saß Anke-Christine , Pöge Kathleen , Strasser Sarah
Published: January 2023

Background

Increasing evidence suggests that participation proportions in longitudinal health research vary according to sex/gender, age, social class, or migration status. Intersectionality scholarship purports that such social categories cannot be understood in isolation and makes visible the co-dependent nature of the social determinants of health and illness. This paper uses an intersectionality-informed approach in order to expand the understanding of why people participate in health research, and the impact of intersecting social structures and experiences on these attitudes.

Methods

A sample of 80 respondents who had previously either accepted or declined an invitation to participate in the German National Cohort (NAKO) participated in our interview study. Interviews were semi-structured and contained both narrative elements and more structured probes. Data analysis proceeded in two steps: first, the entire data set was analysed thematically (separately for participants and non-participants); second, key themes were compared across self-reported sex/gender, age group and migration status to identify differences and commonalities.

Results

Respondents’ attitudes towards study participation can be categorised into four themes: wanting to make a contribution, seeking personalised health information, excitement and feeling chosen, and seeking social recognition. Besides citing logistical challenges, non-participants narrated adverse experiences with or attitudes towards science and the healthcare system that deterred them from participating. A range of social experiences and cultural value systems shaped such attitudes; in particular, this includes the cultural authority of science as an arbiter of social questions, transgressing social categories and experiences of marginalisation. Care responsibilities, predominantly borne by female respondents, also impacted upon the decision to take part in NAKO.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that for participants, health research constitutes a site of distinction in the sense of making a difference and being distinct or distinguishable, whereas non-participants inhabited an orientation towards science that reflected their subjective marginalisation through science. No clear relationship can thereby be presumed between social location and a particular attitude towards study participation; rather, such attitudes transgress and challenge categorical boundaries. This challenges the understanding of particular populations as more or less disadvantaged, or as more or less inclined to participate in health research.
Methylphenidate use and misuse among medical residents in Israel: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zahavi Eden , Lev-Shalem Liat , Yehoshua Ilan , Adler Limor
Published: January 2023

Background

Methylphenidate (MPH) and other stimulants may be misused, mainly as cognitive enhancers and recreational drugs. Data regarding misuse among medical residents are scarce. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of and main reasons for methylphenidate (MPH) use and misuse among Israeli medical residents.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we sent an online questionnaire to medical residents who had completed their first residency exam and specialists with up to 2 years of experience. We asked about the use of MPH before and during residency and attitudes toward the use of MPH as a cognitive enhancer. We also added the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) questionnaire, a validated tool used to screen for the presence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Users and misusers were classified based on self-report of use and formal ADHD diagnosis. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate factors associated with MPH misuse.

Results

From March 2021 to August 2021, 370 physicians responded to our questionnaire (response rate 26.4%). Twenty-eight met the exclusion criteria and were not included. The respondents’ average age was 36.5 years. Women comprised 63.5% of the respondents. Of the participants, 16.4% were classified as users and 35.1% as misusers. The prevalence of misusers was 45.6% among surgery and OB/GYN physicians, 39.4% among pediatricians and internists, and 24% among family physicians (P < 0.001). Misusers had a more liberal approach than others to MPH use as a cognitive enhancer. Factors associated with misuse of MPH included not being a native-born Israeli (OR-1.99, 95% CI 1.08, 3.67) and type of residency (OR-2.33, 95% CI 1.22, 4.44 and OR-4.08, 95% CI 2.06, 8.07 for pediatrics and internal medicine and surgery, respectively).

Conclusion

Very high levels of MPH misuse during residency may be related to stress, long working hours, night shifts, and the academic burden of the residency period. We believe that our findings should be considered by healthcare policymakers as they make decisions regarding the conditions of medical residencies. The use of MPH as a cognitive enhancer should be further studied and discussed.
High proportion of circulating CD8 + CD28- senescent T cells is an independent predictor of distant metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma after radiotherapy
Authors: Xu Xiaotian , Wei Fangze , Xiao Lin , Wu Runye , Wei Baojun , Huang Shengkai , Yi Junlin , Cui Wei
Published: January 2023

Background

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a kind of epithelial carcinoma that is common in East and Southeast Asia. Distant metastasis after radiotherapy remains the main cause of treatment failure and preradiotherapy immune system function can influence prognosis. Our study aimed to identify immune-related prognostic factors for NPC after radiotherapy and establish a prognostic model to predict progression-free survival (PFS) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS).

Methods

We enrolled NPC patients and divided them into training and validation cohorts with follow-up. We collected clinical information and investigated immune cells, EBV DNA and cytokines in the peripheral blood of NPC patients before radiotherapy and EBV DNA after radiotherapy. Among these immune cells, we included CD8+CD28−T cells, which are a unique T-cell immunosenescent subset that increases in human peripheral blood with increasing age and declining immune function. Based on the detection results and clinical information, we utilized Cox regression and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression to screen the PFS and DMFS prognostic factors and build nomograms to predict the PFS and DMFS of NPC. We also verified the results in the validation set.

Results

Three factors associated with PFS were selected: proportion of CD8+CD28−T cells posttreatment EBV and N stage. Three factors associated with DMFS were screened: proportion of CD8+CD28−T cells, posttreatment EBV and N stage. CD8+CD28−T cells are correlated with systemic inflammation and posttreatment immunosuppression. The C-indexes were 0.735 and 0.745 in the training and validation cohorts for predicting PFS. For DMFS, the C-indexes were 0.793 and 0.774 in the training and validation cohorts.

Conclusions

The pretreatment proportion of CD8+CD28−T cells is a candidate prognostic biomarker for NPC after radiotherapy. The constructed nomogram models based on CD8+CD28−T cells have good predictive value.
Two-year changes in body composition and future cardiovascular events: a longitudinal community-based study
Authors: Hu Tingting , Shen Yun , Cao Weijie , Xu Yiting , Wang Yufei , Ma Xiaojing , Bao Yuqian
Published: January 2023

Background

The risk of cardiovascular diseases has rapidly increased among middle-aged and elderly. However, little is known about the relationship of body composition changes with the risk of cardiovascular events among this population in China.We explored the associations of 2-year changes in fat percentage (fat%) and fat-free mass percentage (FFM%) with subsequent cardiovascular events in a middle-aged and elderly community-based cohort.

Methods

This study included 1048 participants (456 men [43.51%], aged 50–80 years) without overt cardiovascular disease, who underwent two examinations during 2013–2014 and 2015–2016. All participants were followed up until 2022 for cardiovascular events. A bioelectrical impedance analyzer was used to calculate fat% and FFM% change.

Results

At baseline, the median body mass index (BMI), fat%, and FFM% were 23.9 (22.1–25.9) kg/m2, 27.2 (20.8–33.6)%, and 72.8 (66.4–79.2)%, respectively. Two-year changes in fat% and FFM% were 0.31 (− 5.53 to 6.87)% and − 0.12 (− 2.36 to 2.06)%. During an average follow-up of 5.5 years, 86 cardiovascular events (8.21%) occurred. Cox regression models showed that hazard ratios (HRs) of every 2% change in fat% and FFM% for cardiovascular events were 1.04 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.07) and 0.84 (95% CI 0.74–0.95), respectively. Compared with participants with stable fat% (–2% ≤ ⊿fat% < 2%), those with fat% gain ≥ 2% had an increased risk of cardiovascular events (HR 2.07, 95% CI 1.08–3.97). FFM% loss > 8% was associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events (HR 3.83, 95% CI 1.29–11.4).

Conclusions

In a middle-aged and elderly community-based Chinese population, fat% gain or FFM% loss was associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events.
Experimental and Numerical Assessments of Slab-Column Connections Strengthened Using Bonded Hemp Fiber Fabric Sheets
Authors: Al-Mawed Loai Khaled , Hamad Bilal Salim
Published: January 2023

The replacement of synthetic fibers with natural fibers in concrete has been recently investigated to counter the growing environmental and sustainable issues. Hemp fibers are environmentally friendly and are used in the manufacturing of composite materials. This paper reports on the experimental assessment of using hemp fiber reinforced polymer (HFRP) fabric sheets as an alternative to carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) sheets to strengthen interior slab-column connections. Small-scale interior slab-column connections were loaded centrally through the column stub up to failure. The main test variables were slab thickness, HFRP sheet width, number of HFRP layers, type of strengthening material (HFRP or CFRP sheets), and HFRP sheet's location relative to the column’s face. Assessment of the strengthening material was based on a comparison of load capacity, mode of failure, load–displacement history, and cracking patterns. The experimental results demonstrated that HFRP strengthening sheets led to improvement in the structural behavior of the slab-column connections depending on the slab thickness, width and configuration for HFRP sheets. Although the HFRP sheets led to lower improvement as compared to the synthetic CFRP sheets, however, the same improvement could be reached by the HFRP sheets if they are applied in larger width or different configurations. A finite-element model was developed using ABAQUS software to predict the behavior of simulated specimens. The numerical findings showed that the models predicted the connection behavior in good agreement with the experimental test results. In addition, an analytical model was calibrated to simulate the behavior of the tested specimens.
Effect of Chitosan nanoparticles on quality indices, metabolites, and vase life of Rosa hybrida cv. Black magic
Authors: Seyed Hajizadeh Hanifeh , Dadashzadeh Roya , Azizi Sahar , Mahdavinia Gholam Reza , Kaya Ozkan
Published: January 2023

Background

Chitosan nanoparticles (CTS-NPs) protect the active ingredients from the environment for a specific period and reduces sweating, control weight loss, delay ripening, and increase vase life. So, a factorial experiment was carried out as a randomized complete design in three replications to investigate the efficiency of CTS-NPs in quality improvement and longevity extension of cut rose flowers.

Results

The 15-day maximum vase life was attained by the rose placed in a preservative solution containing 10 mg L−1 CTS-NPs. CTS-NPs also reduced microbial growth as compared to controls. Total phenolics, total flavonoids, and amount of anthocyanin in treated petals were dramatically increased. CTS-NPs solutions especially at 10 and 15 mg L−1 concentrations, markedly reduced the H2O2 and malondialdehyde at the end of 15th day and maintained the membrane index. The protein and carbohydrate and petals anthocyanin content and enzymatic activities such as superoxide dismutase, polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase increased in cut roses placed in 10 mg L−1 CTS-NPs vase solution which in turn caused to increase in vase life.

Conclusion

CTS-NPs especially at a level of 10 mg L−1 can assist plants to enhance light usage efficiency, as well as promote photosynthetic carbon fixation and the production of additional carbohydrate products for plant growth and development.

Graphical Abstract
Forkhead box P3 gene polymorphisms predispose to type 2 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy in the Han Chinese populations: a genetic-association and gender-based evaluation study
Authors: Wang Xiaorong , Liu Zejing , Zhang Shangdi , Yang Yinfeng , Wu Xue , Liu Xinyue
Published: January 2023

Background

Functional mutations or polymorphisms affecting forkhead box P3 (FOXP3) can lead to their abnormal FOXP3 gene expression and/or defective Treg cells generation, thus resulting in autoimmune disease and inflammatory disorders. FOXP3 also plays a key role in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its complications, because the disease usually involves chronic low-grade inflammatory disorders and is associated with long-term immune system imbalance. This study aimed to investigate the association between FOXP3 polymorphisms and the susceptibility to T2DM and type 2 diabetes nephropathy (T2DN) within the Han Chinese populations.

Methods

Polymorphisms in rs3761548C/A and rs2294021C/T were examined in 400 patients (which include an equal number of T2DM and T2DN groups) and 200 healthy controls using PCR-HRM and sequence analysis.

Results

The genotype and allelic frequencies of the two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were significantly different in T2DM and the progression of diabetes developing to T2DN. The further gender-based evaluation showed that in female subjects, rs3761548C/A was associated with an approximately 3-fold higher threat for T2DM and 4.5-fold for T2DN, while there was no noticeable association with rs2294021C/T; in males, the promoter polymorphism showed an increased predisposition of 5.4-fold and 3.4-fold predisposition to T2DM and T2DN, respectively, while rs2294021 polymorphism could impart a nearly 2-fold risk of developing T2DN. An additional analysis of combined genotypes (rs3761548 C/A-rs2294021C/T) revealed that CC-CC and CC-CT can be considered protective combinations in the predisposition of males with diabetes towards T2DN, while AA-CC and AA-TT have the opposite effect.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the possible involvement of individual and combined genetic associations of rs3761548C/A and rs2294021C/T polymorphisms with the susceptibility to diabetes and diabetic nephropathy in the Han Chinese population, as well as gender bias.
The Stanniocalcin-PAPP-A-IGFBP-IGF Axis
Authors: Oxvig Claus , Conover Cheryl A
Published: January 2023

The pappalysin metalloproteinases, PAPP-A and PAPP-A2, have emerged as highly specific proteolytic enzymes involved in the regulation of insulin-like growth factor (IGF) signaling. The only known pappalysin substrates are a subset of the IGF binding proteins (IGFBPs), which bind IGF-I or IGF-II with high affinity to antagonize receptor binding. Thus, by cleaving IGFBPs, the pappalysins have the potential to increase IGF bioactivity and hence promote IGF signaling. This is relevant both in systemic and local IGF regulation, in normal and several pathophysiological conditions. Stanniocalcin-1 and -2 were recently found to be potent pappalysin inhibitors, thus comprising the missing components of a complete proteolytic system, the stanniocalcin-PAPP-A-IGFBP-IGF axis. Here, we provide the biological context necessary for understanding the properties of this molecular network, and we review biochemical data, animal experiments, clinical data, and genetic data supporting the physiological operation of this branch as an important part of the IGF system. However, although in vivo data clearly illustrate its power, it is a challenge to understand its subtle operation, for example, multiple equilibria and inhibitory kinetics may determine how, where, and when the IGF receptor is stimulated. In addition, literally all of the regulatory proteins have suspected or known activities that are not directly related to IGF signaling. How such activities may integrate with IGF signaling is also important to address in the future.
Antipsychotic-Induced Alterations in Lipid Turnover
Authors: Pereira Sandra , Au Emily , Agarwal Sri Mahavir , Wright David C , Hahn Margaret K
Published: January 2023

Schizophrenia is a debilitating psychiatric disorder that is treated with antipsychotics. However, despite their efficacy, antipsychotics increase the risk of metabolic disorders in a population that suffers from premature cardiovascular death. Published reports to date strongly suggest that antipsychotic-induced alterations in lipid metabolism are part of the causal relationship between antipsychotic treatment and both metabolic and cardiovascular disease. Notably, some of the adverse effects of antipsychotics on lipid metabolism are independent of antipsychotic-induced weight gain. Moreover, some antipsychotics also have beneficial effects on certain aspects of lipid metabolism. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge regarding how antipsychotics modulate lipid turnover at the whole-body, tissue, and cellular levels. We also highlight gaps in the literature, especially with respect to the intracellular mechanisms through which antipsychotics affect lipid metabolism.
hnRNPH1 establishes Sertoli–germ cell crosstalk through cooperation with PTBP1 and AR, and is essential for male fertility in mice
Authors: Feng Shenglei , Wen Hui , Liu Kuan , Xiong Mengneng , Li Jinmei , Gui Yiqian , Lv Chunyu , Zhang Jin , Ma Xixiang , Wang Xiaoli , Yuan Shuiqiao
Published: January 2023

Spermatogenesis depends on the crosstalk of Sertoli cells (SCs) and germ cells. However, the gene regulatory network establishing the communications between SCs and germ cells remains unclear. Here, we report that heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein H1 (hnRNPH1) in SCs is essential for the establishment of crosstalk between SCs and germ cells. Conditional knockout of hnRNPH1 in mouse SCs leads to compromised blood–testis barrier function, delayed meiotic progression, increased germ cell apoptosis, sloughing of germ cells and, eventually, infertility of mice. Mechanistically, we discovered that hnRNPH1 could interact with the splicing regulator PTBP1 in SCs to regulate the pre-mRNA alternative splicing of the target genes functionally related to cell adhesion. Interestingly, we also found hnRNPH1 could cooperate with the androgen receptor, one of the SC-specific transcription factors, to modulate the transcription level of a group of genes associated with the cell–cell junction and EGFR pathway by directly binding to the gene promoters. Collectively, our findings reveal a crucial role for hnRNPH1 in SCs during spermatogenesis and uncover a potential molecular regulatory network involving hnRNPH1 in establishing Sertoli–germ cell crosstalk.
Preferential recruitment and stabilization of Myosin II at compartment boundaries in Drosophila
Authors: Wang Jing , Michel Marcus , Bialas Lisa , Pierini Giulia , Dahmann Christian
Published: January 2023

The regulation of mechanical tension exerted at cell junctions guides cell behavior during tissue formation and homeostasis. Cell junctions along compartment boundaries, which are lineage restrictions separating cells with different fates and functions within tissues, are characterized by increased mechanical tension compared to that of cell junctions in the bulk of the tissue. Mechanical tension depends on the actomyosin cytoskeleton; however, the mechanisms by which mechanical tension is locally increased at cell junctions along compartment boundaries remain elusive. Here, we show that non-muscle Myosin II and F-actin transiently accumulate and mechanical tension is increased at cell junctions along the forming anteroposterior compartment boundary in the Drosophila melanogaster pupal abdominal epidermis. Fluorescence recovery after photobleaching experiments showed that Myosin II accumulation correlated with its increased stabilization at these junctions. Moreover, photoconversion experiments indicated that Myosin II is preferentially recruited within cells to junctions along the compartment boundary. Our results indicate that the preferential recruitment and stabilization of Myosin II contribute to the initial build-up of mechanical tension at compartment boundaries.
The Employment Effects of Countercyclical Public Investments
Authors: Buchheim Lukas , Watzinger Martin
Published: January 2023

This paper estimates the causal impact of a sizable German public investment program on employment at the county level. The program focused on improving the energy efficiency of school buildings, making it possible to use the number of schools as an instrument for investments. It also enforced tight deadlines, reducing potential implementation lags. The program was cost-effective, creating, on average, one job for one year for an investment of €24,000. The employment gains are detectable after nine months and are accompanied by an unemployment reduction amounting to half of the job creation. Employment grew predominately in the directly affected industries. (JEL E24, E32, E62, H54, J23, R23)
School Boards and Education Production: Evidence from Randomized Ballot Order
Authors: Shi Ying , Singleton John D.
Published: January 2023

We examine the causal influence of educators elected to the school board on local education production. The key empirical challenge is that school board composition is endogenously determined through the electoral process. To overcome this, we develop a novel research design that leverages California’s randomized assignment of the order that candidate names appear on election ballots. We find that an additional educator elected to the school board reduces charter schooling and increases teacher salaries in the school district relative to other board members. We interpret these findings as consistent with educator board members shifting bargaining in favor of teachers’ unions. (JEL D72, H75, I21, J31, J45, J51)
Comparing the predictive values of procalcitonin/albumin ratio and other inflammatory markers in determining COVID-19 severity
Authors: Damar Çakırca Tuba , Çakırca Gökhan , Torun Ayşe , Bindal Ahmet , Üstünel Murat , Kaya Ahmet
Published: January 2023

Objective: To examine the relationship between COVID-19 severity and procalcitonin/albumin ratio (PAR) and compare the PAR with oft-reported inflammatory markers, including procalcitonin, white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and C-reactive protein (CRP).

Methods: In this retrospective research study conducted at Sanliurfa Training and Research Hospital during May to September 2020; total, 577 adult subjects diagnosed with COVID-19 were included and categorized into two groups based on place of hospitalization: the intensive care unit (ICU) group (n=151) and the general ward (GW) group (n=426). Laboratory test results and demographic characteristics of the subjects were recorded.

Results: PAR, NLR, CRP, WBC, neutrophil and procalcitonin values were markedly higher in the ICU group than in the GW group. On the contrary, lymphocyte count and albumin level were markedly lower. PAR showed positive correlations with WBC, NLR, and CRP. Multivariate analysis showed that advanced age, presence of hypertension, elevated PAR, WBC, NLR, urea and lactate dehydrogenase levels were independent risk factors associated with the need for intensive care in COVID-19 subjects. Among them, the PAR showed the highest odds ratio (5.564) for ICU admission. Additionally, the area under the ROC curve of the PAR (0.888) was markedly greater than that of WBC (0.777), NLR (0.822), CRP (0.842) and procalcitonin (0.870).

Conclusions: This study revealed that PAR was superior to procalcitonin, WBC, NLR and CRP in determining COVID-19 severity. PAR was an important predictor of ICU requirement in COVID-19 cases.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.2.6856

How to cite this: Damar Çakırca T, Çakırca G, Torun A, Bindal A, Üstünel M, Kaya A. Comparing the predictive values of procalcitonin/albumin ratio and other inflammatory markers in determining COVID-19 severity. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(2):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.2.6856

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Kingdom Fungi capabilities as materials for design
Authors: Perez Rodriguez Carolina , Ayala-Garcia Camilo , Rognoli Valentina
Published: January 2023

Background: Living organisms such as algae, bacteria, and fungi are used to construct novel materials that offer possibilities for innovation. The article aims to explore mycelial growth and analyze the necessary conditions for its development and durability showing its visual potential as a material to be included in a design project. We have explored the aesthetic and metabolic opportunities of the Fungi Kingdom for the design and production of new materials.

Methods: Taking the processes that are commonly implemented in biology and by adopting them into design processes, we grow filamentous fungi and isolate them in pieces designed to show and guarantee their natural development, exposing themselves to stress variables such as temperature, humidity, and substrate, among others.

Results: Perpetuity is evident after nine years of cultivation; the colonies remain in the container preserving their morphological character and the pigmentation presented from the beginning of incubation with a slight variation in the saturation of the colors.

Conclusions: Depending on the species of fungi used and the stimuli applied by the designer, a wide variety of textures, shapes, and colors can be propitiated, generating new product languages and artifacts where their aesthetic qualities are maintained over time.
EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PREDICTION OF INTESTINAL INFECTION CAUSED BY SOME NON-POLIOENTEROVIRUSES OF COXSACKIE GROUP A AMONG THE POPULATION OF AZERBAIJAN FOR 2015–2024
Authors: Rustamova Lala I.
Published: January 2023

Background. Despite significant achievements in research and diagnostic practice, as well as in the field of Molecular and Biological Technology, the problem of non-polioenterovirus infections is still at the stage of serious research.

Purpose. The purpose of the study epidemiological prevalense for some non-polioenteroviruses of Coxsackie group A among the population of Azerbaijan for 2015-2024.

Materials and methods. In the study, the period of some non-polioenteroviruses belonging to Coxsackie group A – KA18, KA20 and KA21 serotypes was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction among the population in Baku during 2006-2010.

The study was affirmed by design-descriptively; by method – clinically; by volume – by generalization; by type – scientifically; by material – retrospectively and prospectively; by term – transversely; by place – clinically.

Statistical analysis was carried out in MS EXCELL-2019 and IBM Statistics SPSS-26 using determinant and regression methods (ARIMA).

Results. On the basis of results of study the statistical reliability of prognostic model showing prediction of stabil appearing level of intestinal infection caused by some non-polioenteroviruses of Coxsackie group A (KA18, KA20 and KA21) among the child population of Azerbaijan for 2015-2024 have been determined.

Practical implications. The results of investigation show the advisability of the using of ARIMA models for epidemiological prediction of intestinal infection caused by Coxsackie group A among the population in Azerbaijan.
APPLICATION OF THE STANDARDIZED PRECIPITATION INDEX FOR THE ASSESSMENT AND FORECAST OF ATMOSPHERIC DROUGHTS IN ALTAI KRAI
Authors: Maximova Nina B. , Pochyomin Nikita M. , Morkovkin Gennady G. , Slazhneva Svetlana S.
Published: January 2023

The research objective is to identify and analyze the possibility of using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) in Altai Krai for agroclimatic and meteorological research, including forecasting climate change and predicting the yield of various crops. An agroclimatic assessment of atmospheric droughts within the conditions of Altai Krai was performed using a method relatively new for national agrometeorology. At the moment, in the Russian Federation and the CIS countries, the G. T. Selyaninov Hydrothermic Factor (HF) is mainly used for assessing droughts, which makes it possible to assess the territory water availability by the ratio of the period characteristics with the temperature above 10°С. The authors have compiled the SPI calculator in the Microsoft Excel software environment. The paper presents the graphs of the moisturization course for the period of the active growing season for 31 meteorological stations of Altai Krai, and the frequency of arid events is calculated for compiling a precipitation model for the period of 1964–2020. The paper does not provide formulas described in detail in literature sources. The research results can be used in planning activities in the sphere of agriculture, developing an economic strategy for the region, and strategy in relation to adaptation to climate change. Areas are highlighted that are priority-oriented for taking measures to prevent the adverse consequences of climate change. General tendencies of changes in agrometeorological indicators have been found in those areas where they are the greatest ones. A comparison is made with the work results regarding other entities of the Russian Federation and the near abroad, wherein the possibility of using the SPI method for assessing droughts is analyzed.
Retórica y educación humanística en la formación de los comunicadores ante los retos de la sociedad digital.
Authors: Cabezuelo-Lorenzo Francisco , Serrano-Oceja José-Francisco , López-Martín José-Antonio
Published: January 2023

La nueva sociedad digital plantea nuevos retos en el ámbito de las Ciencias de la Comunicación Social y en la Educación. Este trabajo pretende dar respuesta a dos preguntas. ¿Cómo podemos llegar a ser forma del mundo en el ámbito de la educación y de la comunicación ante los retos de una nueva forma antropológica? ¿Cómo la educación humanista puede llegar a ser forma del mundo, teniendo en cuenta el proceso paralelo, y por tanto, educativo, que lleva implícito todo proceso de comunicación? Para ello revisa minuciosamente el pensamiento de veinte autores contemporáneo con el fin de aportar luz al estado de la cuestión. Finalmente, se sugiere el estudio de la Retórica como disciplina humanística para desentrañar los discursos mediáticos generados por los profesionales de la comunicación en la actual sociedad digital.
La influencia del uso de las redes sociales y la conciencia de la salud en la intención de compra de productos orgánicos: el papel mediador de la actitud.
Authors: Echchad Manal
Published: January 2023

El propósito de este artículo es analizar la influencia de la conciencia de la salud (HC) y el uso de las redes sociales (SM) en la actitud hacia los productos orgánicos (ATT) y la intención de compra de productos orgánicos (PI) en el caso de estudiantes internacionales en Hungría. . El documento ha llevado a cabo un enfoque cuantitativo utilizando una muestra de 204 estudiantes internacionales que residen y estudian en Hungría. Después de la validación de las escalas de medición, las hipótesis fueron probadas a través de modelos de ecuaciones estructurales de mínimos cuadrados parciales. El modelo prueba las relaciones entre la conciencia de la salud, el uso de las redes sociales, la actitud hacia los productos orgánicos y la intención de compra de productos orgánicos. Los resultados mostraron que la conciencia de la salud no influye en la intención de compra de productos orgánicos, en comparación con el uso de las redes sociales, que mostró una influencia significativa sobre la intención de compra. Sin embargo, la actitud hacia los productos orgánicos medió en la relación entre HC y PI y entre SM y PI. Esta investigación proporciona nuevos conocimientos sobre cómo el uso de las redes sociales puede afectar la intención de los consumidores de comprar productos orgánicos. Además, para que la conciencia sobre la salud sea efectiva, la actitud de los consumidores hacia los productos orgánicos debe ser más favorable.
Centenária Exposição: Os cem anos da Exposição Internacional do Centenário da Independência do Brasil (1922-1923)
Authors: Elias Daiane Lopes
Published: January 2023

ResumoSão muitos os eventos que completam cem anos neste 2022. Contudo, um dos mais grandiosos ocorridos em 1922 foi o da Exposição Internacional do Centenário da Independência do Brasil. Inaugurada em 7 setembro, a Exposição ocupou grande parte da esplanada do Castelo, espaço antes destinado ao Morro e que foi arrasado para que na região fossem erguidos inúmeros e luxuosos pavilhões. As imponentes edificações tinham por fim mostrar as potencialidades industriais do país, do comércio, da cultura, além de estabelecer um diálogo mais próximo com as várias nações estrangeiras que participaram do evento. A elite política do período tinha como interesse maior transformar a então capital federal, o Rio de Janeiro, em uma espécie de “vitrine moderna” aos olhos do mundo. Para isso, adotaram ações de intervenção urbanística e arquitetônica na cidade, em uma tentativa de embelezá-la e modernizá-la. Os objetivos eram, sobretudo, construir uma imagem de Brasil, “país do progresso”, alinhado aos Novos Tempos, além de interesses econômicos surgidos na área central da cidade, a serem obtidos a partir desse projeto político modernizador, no qual a Exposição Internacional se torna emblemática.Palavras-chave: Exposição Internacional do Centenário da Independência do Brasil; projetos urbanos; elite política; república brasileira.
Handling with care
Authors: Sharma Priya
Published: January 2023

Priya Sharma examines the importance of seamless complaints handling, and how best to utilise communication skills.

Aim

The reader should be able to understand the key components of effective complaints handling.

Objectives

To have an overview of the General Dental Council's regulatory requirements for handling complaints To appreciate the importance of professional complaints handling To understand how communication skills (verbal, written and non-verbal) are of primary importance
As hard as it looks?
Authors: Barr Shannon
Published: January 2023

Shannon Barr asks that tricky question for many beginners… is dental nursing as difficult as it looks?
Our Man in Amsterdam
Authors: Butter Richard
Published: January 2023

Automated and connected technologies will be in widespread use in freight vehicles long before consumer vehicles
The Road Ahead
Authors: Hunt Don
Published: January 2023

How do cities pick where to get smarter?
In order for the tolling industry to survive, openness to change is essential
Authors: Eden JJ
Published: January 2023

“We've reached a fork in the road and we find ourselves facing our biggest threat: complacency”
Pollution Alert!
Authors: Gerden Eugene
Published: January 2023

Russia is preparing for an introduction of low emission zones en masse. But despite rising pollution levels, not everyone is convinced they are the right solution.
“These are Exciting Times”
Authors: Roper Jack
Published: January 2023

MARTIN LEHNER, CEO OF WACKER NEUSON, TALKS ABOUT COVID, ELECTRIFICATION, HIS COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION AND WHY DIGITAL SERVICES COULD BECOME AS IMPORTANT TO THE OEM AS OFF-HIGHWAY VEHICLES THEMSELVES AS THE DECADE UNFOLDS…
The Hydrogen King
Authors: Wordsworth Saul
Published: January 2023

JO BAMFORD, HEIR TO THE JCB EMPIRE, IS FOCUSED ON A DIFFERENT KIND OF ZERO-EMISSIONS FUTURE TO MANY, BOTH ON- AND OFF-ROAD Y, BOTH ON- AND OFF-ROAD
Respecting the Environment and Personal Wellbeing
Authors: Mainardi Gino
Published: January 2023

A NEW HMI RECONSIDERS THE TRADITIONAL FORMAT FOR INSTRUMENTATION AND OFFERS A MORE EFFICIENT AND ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVE
Clean Energy in the Industrial Machinery Market
Authors: Righi Marco
Published: January 2023

LITHIUM IS PROVIDING A DECISIVE BREAKTHROUGH IN THE TRANSITION TOWARDS ELECTRIC MOBILITY
Shared Wisdom
Authors: Fischer Christian
Published: January 2023

A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN TWO COMPANIES EXPANDS THE HORIZON FOR SENSOR TECHNOLOGY, DIGITALISATION AND AUTOMATION
Making the Connection
Authors: Stadie Wolfgang
Published: January 2023

A COLLABORATION BETWEEN TWO SMALLER PLAYERS SOLVES THE COUPLING AND UNCOUPLING PROBLEM BETWEEN TRACTOR AND TRAILER
The Revolution Underground
Authors: Millard DR Frank
Published: January 2023

MINING IS OFTEN THOUGHT OF AS A DIRTY, POLLUTING INDUSTRY - BUT THE NEW 100% BATTERY-ELECTRIC R1700 XE LHD FROM CATERPILLAR IS PART OF A NEW MOVEMENT THAT IS CHANGING ALL THAT, BRINGING ZERO-EMISSIONS TO LARGE INDUSTRIAL VEHICLES, FOR A CLEANER FUTURE
Combined to Perfection
Authors: mccullough chris
Published: January 2023

WITH THE ADDITION OF 20 NEW TRION MODELS - SOME OF WHICH WILL BE ON DISPLAY AT AGRITECHNICA - CLAAS HAS COMPLETED ITS NEW COMBINE RANGE, WHICH FIRST BEGAN ROLL OUT IN 2019
Chiral metasurfaces in anisotropic thin film lithium niobate and its nonlinear effect
Authors: Lv Xianpeng , Wu Shuyao , Tian Ziping , Li Yang , Yang Tiefeng , Qiu Wentao , Guan Heyuan , Lu Huihui
Published: January 2023

Different from conventional two-dimensional photonic metasurfaces, chiral photonic metasurfaces, which are composed of a chiral pattern with subwavelength dimensions, exhibit different chiroptical physical phenomena, such as spin-preserving, nonlinear chiroptical effects, and optical vortex generation. However, the effect of symmetry in the vertical direction on the linear and nonlinear response of the chiral quasi-two-dimensional metasurface has been seldom reported. In this study, we design and simulate a chiral metasurface using topological patterns in lithium niobate (LN) thin film to obtain the optimal circular dichroism and its corresponding nonlinear effect. Triangular holes with a certain rotation constitute a quasi-two-dimensional metasurface, which possesses outstanding chirality for the spin state of light, thus allowing it to control linear and nonlinear chiralities. The nonlinear conversion efficiency ηSHG reaches 2×10−4 and 4×10−3 on the LN structure with substrate and without substrate, respectively. Nonlinear circular dichroism CDSHG is 5.8 dB at 783 nm on a SiO2 substrate. This tunable chiral metasurface is expected to be applicable to nonlinear chiroptical responses and chiral light modulation.
Optimized algorithms for temporal phase unwrapping without degrading the signal-to-noise ratio
Authors: Padilla Moises , Servin Manuel , Paez Gonzalo , Garnica Msc
Published: January 2023

In this work, the general temporal phase unwrapping (TPU) algorithm is described as a weighted sum of wrapped phases, followed by a rewrapping process to remove integer multiples of 2π. Then, we propose dual-sensitivity phase unwrapping using the scalar relation between a synthetic non-wrapped estimation and one of the high-modulation phases. This two-stage approach allows TPU algorithms to preserve the original signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). An optimized method considering the relative phase modulations is also proposed, allowing us to successfully use TPU in conditions where fixed-coefficients algorithms would fail. Mathematical derivation, numerical simulations and experimental results are presented.
Multisite imaging of neural activity using a genetically encoded calcium sensor in the honey bee
Authors: Carcaud Julie , Otte Marianne , Grünewald Bernd , Haase Albrecht , Sandoz Jean-Christophe , Beye Martin
Published: January 2023

Understanding of the neural bases for complex behaviors in Hymenoptera insect species has been limited by a lack of tools that allow measuring neuronal activity simultaneously in different brain regions. Here, we developed the first pan-neuronal genetic driver in a Hymenopteran model organism, the honey bee, and expressed the calcium indicator GCaMP6f under the control of the honey bee synapsin promoter. We show that GCaMP6f is widely expressed in the honey bee brain, allowing to record neural activity from multiple brain regions. To assess the power of this tool, we focused on the olfactory system, recording simultaneous responses from the antennal lobe, and from the more poorly investigated lateral horn (LH) and mushroom body (MB) calyces. Neural responses to 16 distinct odorants demonstrate that odorant quality (chemical structure) and quantity are faithfully encoded in the honey bee antennal lobe. In contrast, odor coding in the LH departs from this simple physico-chemical coding, supporting the role of this structure in coding the biological value of odorants. We further demonstrate robust neural responses to several bee pheromone odorants, key drivers of social behavior, in the LH. Combined, these brain recordings represent the first use of a neurogenetic tool for recording large-scale neural activity in a eusocial insect and will be of utility in assessing the neural underpinnings of olfactory and other sensory modalities and of social behaviors and cognitive abilities.
Beyond high hopes: A scoping review of the 2019–2021 scientific discourse on machine learning in medical imaging
Authors: Nittas Vasileios , Daniore Paola , Landers Constantin , Gille Felix , Amann Julia , Hubbs Shannon , Puhan Milo Alan , Vayena Effy , Blasimme Alessandro
Published: January 2023

Machine learning has become a key driver of the digital health revolution. That comes with a fair share of high hopes and hype. We conducted a scoping review on machine learning in medical imaging, providing a comprehensive outlook of the field’s potential, limitations, and future directions. Most reported strengths and promises included: improved (a) analytic power, (b) efficiency (c) decision making, and (d) equity. Most reported challenges included: (a) structural barriers and imaging heterogeneity, (b) scarcity of well-annotated, representative and interconnected imaging datasets (c) validity and performance limitations, including bias and equity issues, and (d) the still missing clinical integration. The boundaries between strengths and challenges, with cross-cutting ethical and regulatory implications, remain blurred. The literature emphasizes explainability and trustworthiness, with a largely missing discussion about the specific technical and regulatory challenges surrounding these concepts. Future trends are expected to shift towards multi-source models, combining imaging with an array of other data, in a more open access, and explainable manner.
A systematic review of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) prevalence and genotypes in Kenya: Data to inform clinical care and health policy
Authors: Downs Louise O. , Campbell Cori , Yonga Paul , Githinji George , Ansari M. Azim , Matthews Philippa C. , Etyang Anthony O.
Published: January 2023

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate available prevalence and viral sequencing data representing chronic hepatitis B (CHB) infection in Kenya. More than 20% of the global disease burden from CHB is in Africa, however there is minimal high quality seroprevalence data from individual countries and little viral sequencing data available to represent the continent. We undertook a systematic review of the prevalence and genetic data available for hepatitis B virus (HBV) in Kenya using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) 2020 checklist. We identified 23 studies reporting HBV prevalence and 8 studies that included HBV genetic data published in English between January 2000 and December 2021. We assessed study quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. Due to study heterogeneity, we divided the studies to represent low, moderate, high and very high-risk for HBV infection, identifying 8, 7, 5 and 3 studies in these groups, respectively. We calculated pooled HBV prevalence within each group and evaluated available sequencing data. Pooled HBV prevalence was 3.4% (95% CI 2.7–4.2%), 6.1% (95% CI 5.1–7.4%), 6.2% (95% CI 4.64–8.2) and 29.2% (95% CI 12.2–55.1), respectively. Study quality was overall low; only three studies detailed sample size calculation and 17/23 studies were cross sectional. Eight studies included genetic information on HBV, with two undertaking whole genome sequencing. Genotype A accounted for 92% of infections. Other genotypes included genotype D (6%), D/E recombinants (1%) or mixed populations (1%). Drug resistance mutations were reported by two studies. There is an urgent need for more high quality seroprevalence and genetic data to represent HBV in Kenya to underpin improved HBV screening, treatment and prevention in order to support progress towards elimination targets.
Optimization of ‘on farm’ hydropriming conditions in wheat: Soaking time and water volume have interactive effects on seed performance
Authors: Tanwar Hemender , Mor Virender Singh , Sharma Sushma , Khan Mujahid , Bhuker Axay , Singh Vikram , Yadav Jitender , Sangwan Sonali , Singh Jogender , Yashveer Shikha , Singh Kuldeep
Published: January 2023

Seed priming is a simple and cost effective method to obtain a better plant stand under diverse environmental conditions. The current study was designed to determine the optimal priming duration and water volume for wheat seed. For this experiment, three wheat genotypes with distinct genetic and adaptive backgrounds were chosen. Seeds of each genotype were hydroprimed for 7 durations, i.e. 1, 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 hours, in three different water volumes, i.e. half, equal, and double volume with respect to seed weight and then surface dried for 1 hour. The control was unprimed (dry) seed. The germination characteristics and seedling vigour potential of hydroprimed seeds were evaluated in the lab by recording several parameters such as germination percentage and speed, seedling growth, and vigour indices at two different temperature levels. The results showed that optimal duration for hydropriming of wheat seed is 12 hours with an equal volume with respect to original seed weight, closely followed by 8 hours with double volume. Reduction in seed performance was observed at 16 and 20 hours priming particularly at double volume treatment. Effect of temperature on seed germination showed improvement in seedling vigour at 25°C when compared to 20°C, although effect on germination percentage was non-significant. Volume of water and priming duration showed significant interactive effects demonstrating that a higher volume can give equivalent results at a shorter duration and vice versa. Another experiment was also conducted to compare the on-farm priming (surface dried seed) with conventional priming (seed re-dried to original moisture) taking 3 potential durations i.e. 8, 12 and 16 hours. Results revealed that both priming methods were statistically at par in terms of germination percentage, while, surface drying resulted in better seedling vigour and speed of germination.