bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consultation Management during the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Experience of Lithuanian Physicians
Authors: Budrevičiūtė Aida , Raila Gediminas , Paukštaitienė Renata , Valius Leonas , Argyrides Marios
Published: December 2022

Crises in the medicine sector such as the COVID-19 pandemic encourage the search for effective solutions for the provision of health care services, when conventional face-to-face consultations may be difficult to deliver effectively due to contact restrictions. The main objective of this study was to investigate consultation management provided by physicians during the COVID-19 pandemic in Lithuania. The dependence of diagnostic testing and vaccination of patients on the socio-demographic characteristics of physicians was also assessed. An anonymous survey was carried out during the COVID-19 pandemic, between 21 June 2021 and 17 September 2021, involving 191 physicians (9% of the total population) working in family physician teams in Lithuania. Thirty-nine Lithuanian Primary Health Care Institutions (PHCIs) were selected for this study, of which 11 were public and 28 were private. Private and public PHCIs employed 31% and 63% of the respondents, respectively, and 6% of respondents worked at both types of institutions. Concerning telemedicine, the physician-respondents frequently provided consultations over the telephone (79.6%) and in-person (63.9%), but less so via the Internet, with the latter option never being used at all by 57.1% of the respondents. Whilst telephone consultations were frequently provided by Lithuanian physicians, only half of the respondents chose to provide services over the Internet. Private, smaller, and rural-based PHCIs should more actively offer viral diagnostics and vaccination services.
Translation and Validation of the Individual Workload Perception Scale—Revised for Portuguese Nurses
Authors: Cabrita Catarina , Lucas Pedro , Teixeira Gisela , Gaspar Filomena
Published: December 2022

(1) Background: In Portugal, there is no scale to assess nurses’ satisfaction with their workload. Therefore, this study aimed to culturally/linguistically adapt and validate the IWPS-R scale, with 29 items, to produce a Portuguese version. (2) Methods: A quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted in two phases: translation and adaptation of the IWPS-R into Portuguese, following the steps recommended by Beaton; and evaluation of its psychometric properties in a non-probability sample of 323 nurses working in a hospital centre of reference in Portugal. (3) Results: The final scale obtained a total explained variance of 62.3% and a KMO of 0.88. The reliability was assured through the determination of an internal consistency of 0.88. The construct validity was determined through confirmatory factor analysis. The factorial model presented a good quality fit (X2/df = 2.118; CFI = 0.925; GFI = 0.900; RMSEA = 0.059; p (RMSEA ≤ 0.05) = 0.041; RMR = 0.078; MECVI = 1.525; SRMR = 0.0631) with five factors. (4) Conclusions: The Individual Workload Perception Scale-Revised-Portuguese version (IWPS-R-PT) is a 21-item tool with five dimensions: Nurse Manager Support, Team Support, Workload, Organizational Resources and Intent to Stay. The IWPS-R-PT was found suitable for hospital-based nurses and may be useful in other settings where nurses work.
Hope Aspects of the Women’s Experience after Confirmation of a High-Risk Pregnancy Condition: A Systematic Scoping Review
Authors: Antunes Mónica , Viana Clara Roquette , Charepe Zaida
Published: December 2022

Background: Pregnancy is a period of transformation, hope, expectation, and worry for women and their families. A high-risk pregnancy refers to a pregnancy in which the mother and/or fetus are at greater-than-normal risk of complications, and it evokes a range of emotional and psychological experiences that largely depend on the care and support provided by health professionals. The purpose of this review is to summarize the existing literature on the lived experience of hope in women facing a high-risk pregnancy related to their own health and/or medical conditions related to the fetus. Methods: This review followed the Joanna Briggs Institute’s methodology. No limits on a date were applied to the search. Identified titles and abstracts were screened to select original reports and were cross-checked for any overlap of cases. We included studies that emphasized the experience of hope of pregnant women dealing with a pregnancy complication. Main Results: According to the results of the present scoping review, we found two main dimensions: women experiencing a high-risk pregnancy themselves and prenatal diagnosis. In both cases, the women were in a dilemma between hope and hopelessness. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that women facing high-risk pregnancies struggle with multiple fears and concerns about their own health and the fetus’s health. Further research is needed to identify best practices for the care provided to the vulnerable populations.
Characterization and Analysis of the Mortars of the Church of Santo Domingo in Quito (Ecuador)
Authors: Lara Calderón M. Lenin , Sanz-Arauz David , López-Andrés Sol , Pino Inés del
Published: December 2022

The religious art of the Dominican order is reflected in Santo Domingo Church, which was built between 1541 and 1688. This work of heritage architecture, one of the first to be built in the colonized city, was affected by multiple earthquakes, interventions, and constructions that have not been clearly recorded. A total of 13 samples were taken from the mortar inside the cloister, central nave, and side chapel, following the minor destruction-testing protocols and standards suggested by the research team. The analysis included mineral characterization studies and quantitative analysis by X-ray diffraction, petrographic, and scanning electron microscopy with microanalysis of the samples. The results showed the presence of volcanic aggregates and lime mortars, mortars of rustic composition and coarse manufacture. The results of mineralogical data and texture have allowed us to corroborate the historical information described by the chroniclers, to date relatively studied sites and to establish a hypothesis of constructive stages.
Root Physiological Changes and Transcription Analysis of Iris domestica in Response to Persistent Drought
Authors: Ai Qiang , Sun Yingxin , Dai Ailin , LYU Zeliang , Liu Cuijing , Han Mei , Yang Limin
Published: December 2022

Iris domestica is a popular gardening plant. Although the species is considered tolerant to drought, its growth and development are often affected by drought conditions. Therefore, revealing the regulatory mechanisms of drought tolerance in this species will aid in its cultivation and molecular breeding. In this study, morpho-physiological and transcriptome analyses of the roots of I. domestica plants were performed under persistent drought conditions. Peroxidase activity, proline content, and tectoridin content increased under sustained drought conditions. Transcriptome analysis showed that the roots of I. domestica seedlings respond to drought mainly by regulating the expression of drought-resistant genes and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. This study provides basic data for identifying drought response mechanisms in Iris domestica.
Screening for Referral of Serious Pathology by Physical Examination Tests in Patients with Back or Chest Pain: A Systematic Review
Authors: Andreoletti Federico , Maselli Filippo , Storari Lorenzo , Vongher Andrea , Erbesato Monica , Testa Marco , Turolla Andrea
Published: December 2022

Objective: To investigate the most common physical examination tests (PET) for the screening for referral of patients with back or chest pain caused by serious pathology. Methods: A systematic review was conducted. Searches were performed on seven electronic databases between June 2020 and December 2021. Only studies evaluating patients with back and/or chest pain with clear reporting of PETs and prompt patient referrals were included. Results: 316 full texts were included, and these studies had a total of 474/492 patients affected by a serious disease. Only 26 studies of them described suspicion of serious disease due to at least one positive PET. Cardiac/pulmonary auscultation and heartbeats/blood pressure measurements were the most frequently reported tests. None of the reported studies included physiotherapists and chiropractors who reported the use of various tests, such as: cardiac and pulmonary auscultation, lung percussion, costovertebral angle tenderness, and lymph node palpation, highlighting a lack of attention in measuring vital parameters. On the contrary, doctors and nurses reported the assessment of the range of motion of the thoracolumbar spine and hip less frequently. Conclusions: Appropriate reporting of PETs is sparse, and their utilization is heterogeneous among different healthcare professionals. Further primary studies are needed to describe PETs results in patients suffering from back and/or chest pain.
Analysis of the Green Development Effects of High-Speed Railways Based on Eco-Efficiency: Evidence from Multisource Remote Sensing and Statistical Data of Urban Agglomerations in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River, China
Authors: Zeng Xiangjing , Ma Yong , Ren Jie , He Biao
Published: December 2022

As part of the modern transport infrastructure, high-speed railways (HSRs) have been considered an important factor affecting eco-efficiency (EE). This study used multisource remote sensing and statistical data from 185 counties representing urban agglomerations in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River (UAMRYR) in China from 2009 to 2018. The study integrated ArcGIS analysis, the Super-SBM (super slack-based measure) model, and the DSPDM (dynamic spatial panel Durbin model) to explore the spatial effects of HSRs on EE. The results showed that the coordinates of the interannual centers of gravity for EE and HSRs both fell in the same county, possessing similar parameter values for the standard deviation elliptical, a negative spatial mismatch index, and obvious spatial mismatch characteristics. In different spatially dislocated areas, the spatial effects of HSRs on EE are variable. Overall, the short-term effects are more intense than the long-term effects, and both the long-term and short-term effects are dominated by the effects of spatial spillover. A new perspective is proposed to explore the green development effects of HSRs, with a view to providing policy implications for the enhancement of EE and the planning of HSRs.
Running Away from the War in Ukraine: The Impact on Mental Health of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Refugees in Transit in Poland
Authors: Rizzi Damiano , Ciuffo Giulia , Sandoli Giulia , Mangiagalli Matteo , de Angelis Pietro , Scavuzzo Gioele , Nych Mariana , Landoni Marta , Ionio Chiara
Published: December 2022

A growing body of research highlights how communities traumatized by conflict and displacement suffer from long-term mental and psychosocial illnesses. The Russian army’s attack on Ukraine has resulted in an estimated 10 million people being internally or externally displaced from Ukraine, of whom more than 3.8 million have left Ukraine to seek refuge elsewhere in Europe. Soleterre has decided to launch an intervention to provide psychological support to Ukrainian refugees and IDPs, aimed at containing war trauma, assessing the severity of symptoms, and enabling those affected to receive psychological support. The intervention model envisioned the administration of an intake form to provide a rapid collection of qualitative and quantitative information for those arriving in Poland or Lviv from Ukraine. Our results showed how most of the samples reported high or very high levels of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. Moreover, results highlighted how being close to families or being able to keep in touch with them work as a protective factor in enhancing resilience, as well as a support network. These findings underscored the importance of re-thinking our perception of “family” in a broader sense, considering the new facets it can take on in post-conflict situations.
Long-Term Clinical Assessment of Two Modifications of Tunnel Technique in Treatment of Cairo Recession Type 1 in Lower Jaw
Authors: Skurska Anna , Milewski Robert , Pietruska Małgorzata
Published: December 2022

Aim: The aim of this study is to compare long-term results after using an MCAT (Modified Coronally Advanced Tunnel) with an SCTG (Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft) or an MCAT with CM (Collagen Matrices) in the treatment of Cairo recession Type 1 in mandibular single-rooted teeth. Material and method: The study encompassed 80 recessions in 18 patients for whom an MCAT was combined with CM on one side of the mandible and with an SCTG on the contralateral one. The following clinical parameters were measured: gingival recession height (GR) and width (RW), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), width of keratinized tissue (KT), gingival thickness (GT), and mean (MRC). Results: The MRC on the CM- and SCTG-treated sides was 55.25% and 82.35%, respectively. The SCTG side had a significantly greater improvement in MRC, GR, RW, KT, and GT compared to the CM side. The five-year results were stable relative to one-year observations. Conclusions: Both methods of treatment enable the achievement of stable long-term clinical results. Application of subepithelial connective tissue grafts is more effective relative to clinical parameters.
Life Cycle Assessment-Based Carbon Footprint Accounting Model and Analysis for Integrated Energy Stations in China
Authors: Sun Xiaorong , Pan Xueping , Jin Chenhao , Li Yihan , Xu Qijie , Zhang Danxu , Li Hongyang
Published: December 2022

To achieve its carbon neutrality goal, China has invested broadly in energy infrastructure and the emerging integrated energy stations (IESs) projects will bring enormous opportunities. Accurate carbon emission accounting for IESs is challenging in view of the complexity of the manufacturing process and uncertainty in construction and operation processes. To overcome these challenges, this paper develops a novel quantitative carbon footprint analysis model for IESs from a lifecycle perspective, with production and materialization, construction, operation and maintenance, and disposal and recycling phases considered. The method is applied on a 110 kV wind power IES project in China, to analyze and calculate lifecycle carbon emissions, identify the key influence factors of carbon footprints and provide suggestions for carbon reduction. The findings can identify key influence factors and provide suggestions for carbon reduction for the development of IES projects.
Exploring Chinese Elderly’s Trust in the Healthcare System: Empirical Evidence from a Population-Based Survey in China
Authors: Chen Lu , Cheng Miaoting
Published: December 2022

This research aims to investigate how much the Chinese elderly trust the healthcare system and the critical factors that influence their trust. We use data from the China Social Survey (CSS) collected by the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in the year 2019 to examine how demographic factors, social-economic status, internet access, and perceptions of the healthcare system impact the Chinese elderly’s trust in the healthcare system. Our research finds male gender, high educational level, and having internet access are negatively related to the elderly’s trust in the healthcare system. Our research also reveals that the elderly’s trust in the healthcare system was significantly related to their subjective perception of their social–economic status, upward mobility, and perception of accessibility and affordability rather than other objective indicators such as income and financial protection. The results imply that the elderly have a pessimistic expectation of their subjective social status and future possibilities of upward mobility in their later life, which deepens their distrust of the health system. Additionally, the accessibility and affordability of the healthcare system have remained problematic among the Chinese elderly. The study provides important theoretical and practical implications to enhance the elderly’s trust in the healthcare system.
Translational Results of Zo-NAnTax: A Phase II Trial of Neoadjuvant Zoledronic Acid in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Crocamo Susanne , Binato Renata , dos Santos Everton Cruz , de Paula Bruno , Abdelhay Eliana
Published: December 2022

Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease with distinct clinical and molecular characteristics. Scientific advances in molecular subtype differentiation support the understanding of cellular signaling, crosstalk, proliferation, survival, migration, and invasion mechanisms, allowing the development of new molecular drug targets. The breast cancer subtype with super expression and/or amplification of human growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is clinically aggressive, but prognosis significantly shifted with the advent of anti-HER2 targeted therapy. Zoledronic-acid (ZOL) combined with a neoadjuvant Trastuzumab-containing chemotherapy regimen (Doxorubicin, Cyclophosphamide followed by Docetaxel, Trastuzumab) increased the pCR rate in a RH-positive/ HER2-positive subgroup, according to the phase II Zo-NAnTax trial. To verify genes that could be related to this response, a microarray assay was performed finding 164 differentially expressed genes. Silico analysis of these genes showed signaling pathways related to growth factors, apoptosis, invasion, and metabolism, as well as differentially expressed genes related to estrogen response. In addition, the RAC3 gene was found to interact with the MVD gene, a member of the mevalonate pathway. Taken together, these results indicate that RH-positive/ HER2-positive patients present gene alterations before treatment, and these could be related to the improvement of pCR.
Mitochondrial Features and Expressions of MFN2 and DRP1 during Spermiogenesis in Phascolosoma esculenta
Authors: Gao Xinming , Feng Binbin , Tang Daojun , Du Chen , Hou Congcong , Jin Shan , Zhu Junquan
Published: December 2022

Mitochondria can fuse or divide, a phenomenon known as mitochondrial dynamics, and their distribution within a cell changes according to the physiological status of the cell. However, the functions of mitochondrial dynamics during spermatogenesis in animals other than mammals and fruit flies are poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed mitochondrial distribution and morphology during spermiogenesis in Sipuncula (Phascolosoma esculenta) and investigated the expression dynamics of mitochondrial fusion-related protein MFN2 and fission-related protein DRP1 during spermiogenesis. The mitochondria, which were elliptic with abundant lamellar cristae, were mainly localized near the nucleus and distributed unilaterally in cells during most stages of spermiogenesis. Their major axis length, average diameter, cross-sectional area, and volume are significantly changed during spermiogenesis. mfn2 and drp1 mRNA and proteins were most highly expressed in coelomic fluid, a spermatid development site for male P. esculenta, and highly expressed in the breeding stage compared to in the non-breeding stage. MFN2 and DRP1 expression levels were higher in components with many spermatids than in spermatid-free components. Immunofluorescence revealed that MFN2 and DRP1 were consistently expressed and that MFN2 co-localizes with mitochondria during spermiogenesis. The results provide evidence for an important role of mitochondrial dynamics during spermiogenesis from morphology and molecular biology in P. esculenta, broadening insights into the role of mitochondrial dynamics in animal spermiogenesis.
Investigation of MicroRNA Biomarkers in Equine Distal Interphalangeal Joint Osteoarthritis
Authors: Baker Melissa E. , Lee Seungmee , Clinton Michael , Hackl Matthias , Castanheira Catarina , Peffers Mandy J. , Taylor Sarah E.
Published: December 2022

Osteoarthritis of the equine distal interphalangeal joint is a common cause of lameness. MicroRNAs from biofluids are promising biomarkers and therapeutic candidates. Synovial fluid samples from horses with mild and severe equine distal interphalangeal joint osteoarthritis were submitted for small RNA sequencing. The results demonstrated that miR-92a was downregulated in equine synovial fluid from horses with severe osteoarthritis and there was a significant increase in COMP, COL1A2, RUNX2 and SOX9 following miR-92a mimic treatment of equine chondrocytes in monolayer culture. This is the first equine study to evaluate the role of miR-92a in osteoarthritic chondrocytes in vitro.
Semi-Quantitative [18F]FDG-PET/CT ROC-Analysis-Based Cut-Offs for Aortitis Definition in Giant Cell Arteritis
Authors: Espitia Olivier , Schanus Jérémy , Agard Christian , Kraeber-Bodéré Françoise , Guédon Alexis F. , Bénichou Antoine , Serfaty Jean-Michel , Coudol Sandrine , Karakachoff Matilde , Jamet Bastien
Published: December 2022

[18F]fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography ([18F]FDG-PET/CT) is used to diagnose large vessel vasculitis in giant cell arteritis (GCA). We aimed to define a semi-quantitative threshold for identifying GCA aortitis from aortic atheroma or the control. Contrast enhanced computed tomography (CECT) was used as the reference imaging for aortic evaluation and to define aortitis, aortic atheroma and control aortas. [18F]FDG-PET/CT was performed on 35 GCA patients and in two different control groups (aortic atheroma (n = 70) and normal control (n = 35)). Aortic semi-quantitative features were compared between the three groups. GCA patients without aortitis on CECT were excluded. Of the GCA patients, 19 (54.3%) were not on glucocorticoids (GC) prior to [18F]FDG-PET/CT. The SUVmax, TBRblood and TBRliver aortic values were significantly higher in the GCA aortitis group than in the aortic atheroma and control groups (p < 0.001). Receiver operating characteristic curve analyses brought to light quantitative cut-off values allowing GCA aortitis diagnosis with optimal sensitivity and specificity versus control or aortic atheroma patients for each PET-based feature analyzed. Considering the overall aorta, a SUVmax threshold of 3.25 and a TBRblood threshold of 1.75 had a specificity of 83% and 75%, respectively, a sensitivity of 81% and 81%, respectively, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was 0.86 and 0.83, respectively, for aortitis detection compared to control groups in GCA cases with GC. A SUVmax threshold of 3.45 and a TBRblood threshold of 1.97 had a specificity of 90% and 93%, respectively, a sensitivity of 89% and 89%, respectively, with an AUC of 0.89 and 0.96, respectively, for aortitis detection compared to the control in GC-free GCA cases. Discriminative thresholds of SUVmax and TBRblood for the diagnosis of GCA aortitis were established using CECT as the reference imaging.
Exploring Cu-Doping for Performance Improvement in Sb2Se3 Photovoltaic Solar Cells
Authors: Spaggiari Giulia , Bersani Danilo , Calestani Davide , Gilioli Edmondo , Gombia Enos , Mezzadri Francesco , Casappa Michele , Pattini Francesco , Trevisi Giovanna , Rampino Stefano
Published: December 2022

Copper-doped antimony selenide (Cu-doped Sb2Se3) thin films were deposited as absorber layers in photovoltaic solar cells using the low-temperature pulsed electron deposition (LT-PED) technique, starting from Sb2Se3 targets where part of the Sb was replaced with Cu. From a crystalline point of view, the best results were achieved for thin films with about Sb1.75Cu0.25Se3 composition. In order to compare the results with those previously obtained on undoped thin films, Cu-doped Sb2Se3 films were deposited both on Mo- and Fluorine-doped Tin Oxide (FTO) substrates, which have different influences on the film crystallization and grain orientation. From the current-voltage analysis it was determined that the introduction of Cu in the Sb2Se3 absorber enhanced the open circuit voltage (VOC) up to remarkable values higher than 500 mV, while the free carrier density became two orders of magnitude higher than in pure Sb2Se3-based solar cells.
Competing Routes in the Extraction of Lanthanide Nitrates by 1,10-Phenanthroline-2,9-diamides: An Impact of Structure of Complexes on the Extraction
Authors: Ustynyuk Yuri A. , Zhokhova Nelly I. , Gloriozov Igor P. , Matveev Petr I. , Evsiunina Mariia V. , Lemport Pavel S. , Pozdeev Anton S. , Petrov Vladimir G. , Yatsenko Alexandr V. , Tafeenko Viktor A. , Nenajdenko Valentine G.
Published: December 2022

The fact of the fracture of the extraction curve of lanthanides by 1,10-phenanthroline-2,9-diamides is explained in terms of the structure of complexes, solvent extraction data and quantum chemical calculations. The solvent extraction proceeds in two competing directions: in the form of neutral complexes LLn(NO3)3 and in the form of tight ion pairs {[LLn(NO3)2 H2O]+ (NO3−).
Serious Games for Vision Training Exercises with Eye-Tracking Technologies: Lessons from Developing a Prototype
Authors: Ali Qasim , Heldal Ilona , Helgesen Carsten Gunnar , Dæhlen Are
Published: December 2022

Eye-tracking technologies (ETs) and serious games (SGs) have emerged as new methods promising better support for vision screening and training. Previous research has shown the practicality of eye-tracking technology for vision screening in health care, but there remains a need for studies showing that the effective utilization of SGs and ETs are beneficial for vision training. This study investigates the feasibility of SGs and ETs for vision training by designing, developing, and evaluating a prototype influenced by commercially available games, based on a battery of exercises previously defined by vision experts. Data were collected from five participants, including a vision teacher, through a user experience questionnaire (UEQ) following a mixed method. Data analysis of the UEQ results and interviews highlighted the current challenges and positive attitudes in using SGs and ET for vision training. In conjunction with UEQ indicators such as attractiveness and perspicuity, the stimulation of the vision training battery based on the user experience provided insights into using ETs and further developing SGs to better approach different eye movements for vision training.
Synthesis and Structure of ZnO-Decorated Graphitic Carbon Nitride (g-C3N4) with Improved Photocatalytic Activity under Visible Light
Authors: Chebanenko Maria I. , Tikhanova Sofia M. , Nevedomskiy Vladimir N. , Popkov Vadim I.
Published: December 2022

The volume of dye production in the chemical industry is growing rapidly every year. Given the global importance of clean water resources, new wastewater treatment solutions are required. Utilizing photocatalysis by harvesting solar energy represents a facile and promising solution for removing dangerous pollutants. This study reports the possibility of increasing the photocatalytic activity of g-C3N4 by creating nanocomposites with ZnO. Exfoliated g-C3N4/ZnO nanocomposites were synthesized by heat treatment of urea and subsequent ultrasonic exfoliation of the colloidal solution by introducing zinc acetate. The uniformity of the distribution of ZnO nanoparticles is confirmed by the method of elemental mapping. The obtained X-ray diffractograms of the obtained nanocomposites show typical X-ray reflections for g-C3N4 and ZnO. It was found that the introduction of oxide into g-C3N4 leads to an increase in the specific surface area values due to the developed ZnO surface. The maximum value of the specific surface area was obtained for a sample containing 7.5% ZnO and was 75.2 m2/g. The g-C3N4/7.5% ZnO sample also demonstrated increased photocatalytic activity during the decomposition of methylene blue under the influence of visible light, which led to a twofold increase in the reaction rate compared to initial g-C3N4.
Nutritional Compositions of Aquatic Insects Living in Rice Fields, with a Particular Focus on Odonate Larvae
Authors: Maneechan Witwisitpong , Vitheepradit Akekawat , Prommi Taeng On
Published: December 2022

Although the human consumption of aquatic insects is prevalent in many regions, the nutritional composition of the insects has not been comprehensively determined. The proximate composition of Pantala sp. was shown to be a good source of protein (49.45 ± 0.32 g/100 g DW), as well as of minerals such as sodium, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and iron. All nine essential amino acids are present in this species, with valine being the most abundant. The major fatty acids are palmitic acid (1.19 ± 0.02 g/100 g DW), oleic acid (0.63 ± 0.02 g/100 g DW), and linoleic acid (0.55 ± 0.01 g/100 g DW). Lead (Pb), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd) showed a value of 0.18 ± 0.01 mg·kg−1, 3.51 ± 0.12 mg·kg−1, and 0.17 ± 0.00 mg·kg−1, respectively. Furthermore, microplastic (MP) contamination in odonate larvae (419 individuals belonging to three identified families) was found in varying shapes, e.g., fibers, fragments, and rods. FTIR analysis revealed the following MP polymers, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl acetate, bis(2-ethylhexyl), polybutadiene, poly(methyl methacrylate-co-methacrylic acid); P(MMA-co-MA), poly(ethylene glycol) tetrahydrofurfuryl ether, poly(acrylonitrile-co-butadiene), and polypropylene glycol. The results of this work could be a nutritional reference for food security and the risk of eating insects.
Using the Software DeepWings© to Classify Honey Bees across Europe through Wing Geometric Morphometrics
Authors: García Carlos Ariel Yadró , Rodrigues Pedro João , Tofilski Adam , Elen Dylan , McCormak Grace P. , Oleksa Andrzej , Henriques Dora , Ilyasov Rustem , Kartashev Anatoly , Bargain Christian , Fried Balser , Pinto Maria Alice
Published: December 2022

DeepWings© is a software that uses machine learning to automatically classify honey bee subspecies by wing geometric morphometrics. Here, we tested the five subspecies classifier (A. m. carnica, Apis mellifera caucasia, A. m. iberiensis, Apis mellifera ligustica, and A. m. mellifera) of DeepWings© on 14,816 wing images with variable quality and acquired by different beekeepers and researchers. These images represented 2601 colonies from the native ranges of the M-lineage A. m. iberiensis and A. m. mellifera, and the C-lineage A. m. carnica. In the A. m. iberiensis range, 92.6% of the colonies matched this subspecies, with a high median probability (0.919). In the Azores, where the Iberian subspecies was historically introduced, a lower proportion (85.7%) and probability (0.842) were observed. In the A. m mellifera range, only 41.1 % of the colonies matched this subspecies, which is compatible with a history of C-derived introgression. Yet, these colonies were classified with the highest probability (0.994) of the three subspecies. In the A. m. carnica range, 88.3% of the colonies matched this subspecies, with a probability of 0.984. The association between wing and molecular markers, assessed for 1214 colonies from the M-lineage range, was highly significant but not strong (r = 0.31, p < 0.0001). The agreement between the markers was influenced by C-derived introgression, with the best results obtained for colonies with high genetic integrity. This study indicates the good performance of DeepWings© on a realistic wing image dataset.
Insecticide Resistance Profile and Mechanisms in An. gambiae s.l. from Ebolowa, South Cameroon
Authors: Efa Salomon , Elanga-Ndille Emmanuel , Poumachu Yacouba , Tene Billy , Mikande Jacqueline Ze , Zakariaou Njoumémi , Wondji Charles S. , Ndo Cyrille
Published: December 2022

Monitoring the trend of insecticide resistance and understanding associated genetic mechanisms is important for designing efficient malaria vector control strategies. This study was conducted to provide temporal data on insecticide resistance status and mechanisms in the major malaria vector Anopheles gambiae s.l. from Ebolowa, Southern Cameroon. Methods: Larvae of An. gambiae s.l. were collected from typical breeding sites throughout the city and reared to adulthood. Emerging adults were morphologically identified and WHO tube assays were performed to determine their susceptibility to carbamate, organophosphate and pyrethroid insecticides at diagnostic doses. When resistance was observed, its intensity was determined by performing WHO tube tests using 5 and 10 times the concentration of the diagnostic dose. Metabolic resistance mechanisms were investigated using insecticide-synergist assays. Sibling species of the An. gambiae complex were identified using SINE-PCR protocol. TaqMan assay was used to genotype the L1014F and L1014S kdr mutations, and the N1575Y mutation, an amplifier of the resistance conferred by the L1014F mutation. Results: Anopheles coluzzii was by far the dominant (99%) member of the An. gambiae s.l. complex in Ebolowa. The species was fully susceptible to carbamates and organophosphates, but resistant to all pyrethroid insecticides tested. Resistance was of moderate intensity for deltamethrin (mortality: 37%, 70% and 99% for 1×, 5× and 10× insecticide concentration, respectively) but rather of high intensity for permethrin (5% for 1×; 62% for 5× and 75% for 10×) and for alphacypermethrin (4.4% for 1×; 57% for 5× and 80% for 10×). Pre-exposure to the synergist PBO resulted in a full recovery of the susceptibility to delthametrin, but this was not observed for the other two pyrethroids tested. L1014S (kdr-East) and the N1575Y mutations were absent, whereas the L1014F (kdr-West) mutation was present at a high frequency (75%), showing a significant association with resistance to permethrin (OR = 3.8; 95%; CI [1.9–7.4]; p < 0.0001) and alphacypermethrin (OR = 3; 95%; CI [1.6–5.4]; p = 0.0002). Conclusion: The increased resistance of An. gambiae s.l. to pyrethroid insecticides as observed in Ebolowa poses a threat to the efficacy of LLINs used to protect populations from the bites of Anopheles mosquitoes that transmit malaria parasites. The present study further highlights the urgent need to implement resistance management strategies in order to maintain the effectiveness of insecticide-based vector control interventions and prevent a rebound in malaria-related mortality.
Vitamin D Supplementation Practices among Multiple Sclerosis Patients and Professionals
Authors: Galus Weronika , Walawska-Hrycek Anna , Rzepka Michalina , Krzystanek Ewa
Published: December 2022

Vitamin D serum level increase is associated with a reduction in clinical relapse rate, gadolinium-enhancing lesions, new or enlarging T2 lesions and new active lesions in the MRI in MS patients. However, current RCTs assessing the vitamin D supplementation therapeutic effect in MS provide inconclusive results. Experts recommend vitamin D measurements and implementations among patients with MS. This article discusses an observational study, performed without any intervention to evaluate the vitamin D status and practices among MS patients and professionals in the clinical setting. A total of 139 patients with MS treated by disease-modifying therapy were recruited and fulfilled the standardized questionnaire assessing the vitamin D supplementation practices and vitamin D level influencing factors such as education, insolation, smoking, obesity and current treatment. The collected data were then compared to the patients’ vitamin D serum levels available in medical records at the baseline and after 12 months of observation. Professionals’ practices and recommendations were also assessed. A total of 74.1% patients confirmed vitamin D supplementation, and all patients were administered cholecalciferol, taken orally. However, only 43.69% of the patients achieved an optimal vitamin D concentration (30–50 ng/mL). The lack of a doctor’s recommendation was the most frequent reason for the absence of vitamin D supplementation. The most often recommended vitamin D daily dose was 4000 IU. There was no adverse effect of supplementation observed. Vitamin D status in patients with MS is currently better than in the general population, but still, a significant percentage of patients do not implement vitamin D.
Factors Associated with RANTES, EMMPIRIN, MMP2 and MMP9, and the Association of These Biomarkers with Cardiovascular Disease in a Multi-Ethnic Population
Authors: Wang Laureen Yi-Ting , Tan Chuen Seng , Lai Mitchell K. P. , Hilal Saima
Published: December 2022

Background: The growing cardiovascular disease (CVD) epidemic calls for further research to identify novel biomarkers for earlier detection and as potential therapeutic targets. Biomarkers Regulated on Activation, Normal T Cell Expressed and Secreted (RANTES), extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN), and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, and MMP-9) are linked to proatherogenic and proinflammatory pathways of CVD development, the majority of which are coronary artery disease (CAD) and stroke. We evaluated potential factors affecting these four biomarkers and established their association with CVD. Methods: This is a cross-sectional analysis using a nested case-control design involving 580 participants aged 21–75 years from the prospective multi-ethnic cohort study. A total of 290 CVD cases and 290 age-and sex-matched controls were identified. All participants underwent interviews, health screenings, and provided blood samples, including biomarkers RANTES, EMMPRIN, and MMPs. CVD was defined based on previous medical history. Results: The average age of the participants was 55.7(SD = 10.3) years of age, and 34.6% were female. Arrhythmia history and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were significant factors of logEMMPRIN (β = −0.124 [−0.245, −0.003] and β = 0.111 [0.0, 0.191], respectively). Only female sex (β = 0.189 [0.078, 0.300]) for logRANTES and age (β = 0.033 [0.010, 0.055]) for logMMP-2 and logMMP-9 were significant. The Indian ethnicity (β = 0.192 [0.048, 0.335]) and highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels (β = 0.063 [0.011, 0.116]) were statistically significant for logMMP-9. No association was detected between biomarkers and CVD. Conclusions: In this multi-ethnic study cohort, RANTES was associated with sex, EMMPRIN was associated with a history of arrhythmia and LDL levels, MMP-2 with age, and MMP-9 with ethnicity and hs-CRP levels. The biomarker serum levels were not associated with CVD.
Effects of Forward Speed and Wave Height on the Seakeeping Performance of a Small Fishing Vessel
Authors: Im Namkyun , Lee Sangmin
Published: December 2022

The effects of wave height and forward speed on the seakeeping performance of a small fishing vessel in irregular waves are evaluated using computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The wave height effect changed linearly for a forward speed in the head sea and beam sea. In the stationary state, the heave and roll motions attributed to the wave height appear nonlinearly. The effect of the speed showed a non-linear shape wherein the heave motion became larger with an increase in the forward speed in beam sea. The seakeeping performance of pitch motion is greatly improved at forward speed rather than in a stationary state. The seakeeping performance of the roll motion is more dangerous than the pitch motion, regardless of wave height and vessel speed. The mean roll period in irregular waves is obtained through this study, and it is longer than the natural roll period in still water. It is necessary to be careful as the probability of exceeding the limit is high and GM is decreased in transverse waves.
Millennial Generation’s Islamic Banking Behavioral Intention: The Moderating Role of Profit-Loss Sharing, Perceived Financial Risk, Knowledge of Riba, and Marketing Relationship
Authors: Asyari  , Hoque Mohammad Enamul , Hassan M. Kabir , Susanto Perengki , Jannat Taslima , Mamun Abdullah Al
Published: December 2022

Despite tons of studies on Islamic banking (IB) behavior, there is a lack of understanding of the Millennial generation’s attitude to and subjective norms surrounding Islamic banking, as well as of their behavioral intention toward Islamic banking. Therefore, the present study investigates the influence of the Millennial generation’s attitude and subjective norms on their behavioral intention toward Islamic banking products and services. This study also focuses on the moderating roles of profit-loss sharing, perceived financial risk, knowledge of riba, and relationship marketing on the nexus of antecedent and behavioral intent of Islamic banking. This study has developed a conceptual framework, employed a questionnaire to collect data for understudying relationships, and constructed a predictive model. Within the proposed conceptual framework, structural equation modeling is employed to investigate the extent and direction of the link. We discovered that Millennial generation consumers’ attitudes and subjective norms influence and predict their behavioral intention towards Islamic banking. With the exception of perceived financial risk, all moderators have direct effects on behavior intention toward Islamic banking and could be antecedents of behavior intention toward Islamic banking. Profit-and-loss sharing and knowledge of riba moderate the nexus of attitude and behavioral intention and the nexus of subject norms and behavioral intention. Our findings thus extend the literature on Islamic banking and consumer behavior context.
The Definition of the Heritage Status of Modern Residential Architecture from a Multi-Scalar and Perceptual Approach. A Heritage Perspective in the Case Study of the Neighbourhood of El Plantinar in Seville (Spain)
Authors: Rey-Pérez Julia , Díaz-Borrego Julia , Fernández Muñoz Carmen , de la Fuente Peñalver Agostina
Published: December 2022

The demographic, political, social and economic evolution of the last 40 years has shown how difficult it has been for the residential architecture of the 1960s to adapt to the needs of the turn of the century, in many cases suffering abandonment by the administration and the citizens themselves. However, these architectural ensembles, grouped together in the so-called “barriadas” (neighbourhoods), represented a change of era and a conceptual transformation in the way the city was built. This has led various international organisations to consider the need to study and protect them. The El Plantinar neighbourhood, located in the city of Seville, is one of these architectural complexes that are in a situation of vulnerability. The aim of this article is to propose a research methodology that, from different scales and with the incorporation of new players, allows us to understand these modern assets in their maximum dimension and to define their unique heritage. The methodology is structured in two phases. In the first phase, a general study of the neighbourhood is carried out on three scales: urban, object-typological and perceptive. In the second phase, the cultural attributes of the urban ensemble, of a patrimonial nature to which values can be assigned, are identified. The results provide very heterogeneous attributes that contribute to enrich the neighbourhood beyond the traditional scientific-technical and objectual vision that accompanies the assets of the modern period. The conclusions indicate that a methodology that takes into account different approaches and scales is necessary to incorporate these neighbourhoods solidly into the heritage landscape.
Is Cultivated Land Increased by Land Consolidation Sustainably Used in Mountainous Areas?
Authors: Zhou Jian , Li Chao , Chu Xiaotong , Luo Chenying
Published: December 2022

Land consolidation (LC) in China is an important means by which we can increase the quantity and improve the quality of cultivated land. At present, large areas of cultivated land are abandoned in mountainous areas. It is unclear whether the increased cultivated land from LC in mountainous areas is sustainably used. Data from 64 land consolidation zones completed in 2016 in the Qinba Mountain Area were collected. The land-use status was obtained from high-resolution remote sensing images by the method of visual interpretation, and land-use changes were analyzed. According to our results, the increased cultivated land by LC is mainly terrace, accounting for 92.22% of the total area of increased cultivated land. The increased cultivated land is mainly distributed in the Qinba Mountainous Area, and terrace is the main type of increased cultivated land in both the Hanzhong Basin Area and Qinba Mountainous Area. The transformation rate of cultivated land from LC, especially terrace, is small. The transformation rates of terrace in the Hanzhong Basin Area and Qinba Mountainous Area are 0.36% and 0.09%, respectively. The socioeconomic development in mountainous areas is relatively lagging, and the per capita cultivated land area is small. Many farmers are still engaged in agricultural production and earn a basic income. Thus, high-quality cultivated land with convenient transportation is sustainably used. LC remains a key avenue for increasing cultivated land area, improving agricultural productivity, increasing farmers’ incomes, and promoting rural development in the mountainous areas.
Epidemiology, Evolution of Antimicrobial Profile and Genomic Fingerprints of Pseudomonas aeruginosa before and during COVID-19: Transition from Resistance to Susceptibility
Authors: Coșeriu Răzvan Lucian , Vintilă Camelia , Mare Anca Delia , Ciurea Cristina Nicoleta , Togănel Radu Ovidiu , Cighir Anca , Simion Anastasia , Man Adrian
Published: December 2022

Background: The purpose of the study was to describe the epidemiological implication of Pseudomonas aeruginosa between 2017–2022 in a tertiary hospital from Romania, including the molecular fingerprinting of similar phenotypic strains (multidrug-resistant isolates), which would have an important health impact. The study also describes the resistance profile of P. aeruginosa before and during COVID-19, which might bring new information regarding the management of antibiotic treatments. Materials and methods: Information regarding wards, specimen types, species, and antibiotic resistance profile of 1994 strains of Pseudomonas spp. Isolated over a period of 6 years in Mures Clinical County Hospital, Romania, was collected from the WHONET database. From 50 multidrug-resistant isolates, molecular fingerprinting was performed by Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus Polymerase Chain Reaction (ERIC-PCR) to prove the potential clonal distribution. Results: A number of 1994 Pseudomonas spp. were isolated between 2017–2022, from which P. aeruginosa was the most frequent species, 97.39% (n = 1942). P. aeruginosa was most frequently isolated in 2017 (n = 538), with the dermatology department as the main source, mainly from pus secretion. A drop in the harvesting rate was noted in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions. Regarding the resistance profile, there are a few modifications. The susceptibility of P. aeruginosa to carbapenems, piperacillin-tazobactam, and amikacin suffered alterations before and during COVID-19. The molecular fingerprinting showed three P. aeruginosa clusters, including strains with 80–99% similarity.
Diabetes Patients’ Acceptance of Injectable Treatment, a Scientometric Analysis
Authors: Pantea Ileana , Roman Nadinne , Repanovici Angela , Drugus Daniela
Published: December 2022

Diabetes is a condition associated with multiple systemic secondary risk factors, besides pancreatic dysfunctions, affecting the population worldwide and with high costs impacting the healthcare systems. This paper aims to identify the major issues in patients’ adherence to injectable diabetes treatment. After the interrogation of the Web of Science database, a scientometric map was generated, from which six directions of approach were identified as essential factors influencing the patient’s adherence. These directions yielded clusters of related articles. Glycemic control with the endocrinology metabolic implications, lifestyle adjustments, the healthcare services, medication therapy algorithm, healthcare services digitalization and healthcare policies seem to have a major impact on injectable diabetes therapy and patient adherence. Further research on every one of the six directions is needed to identify the potential of increasing injectable treatment adherence in diabetes patients.