bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phenology forcing model to estimate phenology shifting ability of extreme environmental events
Authors: Ahmad Aqeel , Liu Yujie
Published: September 2022

The current study considered the climate extreme index (CEI) values originated from extreme environmental events (EEEs) by following the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) guidelines. The EEEs were fractionated into six sub-categories (i.e., high temperature, low temperature, high precipitation, low precipitation, drought, and wind), and the combined impact of CEIs was utilized to develop an algorithm for the estimation of the phenology sensitivity index (PSi). Finally, the CEIs, and the PSi were undergone the development of the phenology forcing (PF) model. The developed model showed a high sensitivity at the CEI value of as low as ≥1.0. Furthermore, the uncertainty index varied between 0.03 and 0.07, making a parabolic curvature at increasing CEIs (1.0–15.0). The current study precisely estimates the tendency of EEEs for phenology change. It will assist in policy-making and planning crop cultivation plans for achieving sustainable development goal 2 (SDG2) of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
Merging the Psychophysical Function With Response Times for Auditory Detection of One vs. Two Tones
Authors: Lentz Jennifer J. , Townsend James T.
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study is to take preliminary steps to unify psychoacoustic techniques with reaction-time methodologies to address the perceptual mechanisms responsible for the detection of one vs. multiple sounds. We measured auditory redundancy gains for auditory detection of pure tones widely spaced in frequency using the tools of Systems Factorial Technology to evince the system architecture and workload capacity in two different scenarios (SOFT and LOUD). We adopted an experimental design in which the presence or absence of a target at each of two frequencies was combined factorially with two stimulus levels. Replicating previous work, results did not allow an assessment of system architecture due to a failure to observe factor influence at the level of distribution ordering for dual-target stimuli for both SOFT and LOUD scenarios. All subjects demonstrated very modest redundancy gains for the dual-target compared to the single-target stimuli, and results were similar for both LOUD and SOFT. We propose that these results can be predicted by a mental architecture that falls into the class of integrated subadditive parallel systems, using a well-supported assumption that reaction time is driven by loudness. We demonstrate that modeled loudness of the experimental sounds (which ranged between about 0.2 and 14 sones) is highly correlated with mean reaction time (r = −0.87), and we provide a proof-of-concept model based on Steven’s Power law that predicts both a failure of distributional ordering for dual-target stimuli and very modest redundancy gains.
Does institutional quality moderate the relationship between corporate governance and stock liquidity? Evidence from the emerging market of Pakistan
Authors: Ali Shuaib , Zhongxin Wu , Ali Zahid , Fei Guo , Chowdhury Muhammad Abir Shahid
Published: September 2022

The main aim of this study was to empirically analyze whether Institutional Quality moderates the relationship between corporate governance and stock liquidity through the light of agency and information asymmetry theory. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first finance study. The sample consists of 230 non-financial firms listed on the Pakistan stock exchange during the period of 2009–2019. We used an instrumental variable approach and our new Institutional Quality index composed of world governance indicators and a corporate governance index, developed via principal component analysis, to demonstrate a relationship between corporate governance and stock liquidity and check the moderating role of Institutional Quality by following the resources complementary phenomenon. Our results show a significant, positive relationship between the corporate governance index and stock liquidity, suggesting that well-governed firms have high liquidity. The results show that the Institutional Quality index has a positive moderating impact on the relationship between corporate governance and stock liquidity, suggesting that corporate governance in Pakistan is weak. Our results are robust to a series of endogeneity checks using alternative proxies of stock liquidity.
Research on Relevant Dimensions of Tourism Experience of Intangible Cultural Heritage Lantern Festival: Integrating Generic Learning Outcomes With the Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Li Xin-Zhu , Chen Chun-Ching , Kang Xin , Kang Jian
Published: September 2022

The lantern exhibition at the Lantern Festival is an important traditional festival in Taiwan. Visitors play an important role in the promotion and sustainable development of intangible cultural heritage (ICH). In recent years, the involvement of digital technology in traditional lantern design and shows has contributed to the protection, inheritance, and promotion of ICH, there remains less research on using augmented reality (AR) with ICH tourism. In this study, AR is used for ICH lantern exhibition to discuss the learning experience in lantern tourism and the relationship between technology acceptance and satisfaction from the perspective of visitors, as well as evaluate what AR has on improving visitors’ awareness and learning experience. Then, primary variables of the technology acceptance model (TAM) are combined with generic learning outcomes (GLOs) to integrate ICH, education, and technology to expand TAM, building a new model to study the ICH learning experience. A questionnaire and observation are used. Respondents are visitors participating in the AR lantern exhibition in Taiwan, which is designed by the author. There is a total of 200 questionnaires collected in the end. The result shows that knowledge and understanding (KU), attitudes and values (AV), activity, behavior, and progression (ABP), and enjoyment, inspiration, and creativity (EIC) from GLOs have a positive effect on technology acceptance and actual use (AU). Therefore, visitors are satisfied with innovative and interesting technology learning experiences, enhancing learning interest and results. Besides, the interaction of the AR system improves visitors’ learning motivation, which shows the combination of AR technology with ICH tourism helps improve cultural awareness.
Factors influencing microgame adoption among secondary school mathematics teachers supported by structural equation modelling-based research
Authors: Wijaya Tommy Tanu , Cao Yiming , Bernard Martin , Rahmadi Imam Fitri , Lavicza Zsolt , Surjono Herman Dwi
Published: September 2022

Microgames are rapidly gaining increased attention and are highly being considered because of the technology-based media that enhances students’ learning interests and educational activities. Therefore, this study aims to develop a new construct through confirmatory factor analysis, to comprehensively understand the factors influencing the use of microgames in mathematics class. Participants of the study were the secondary school teachers in West Java, Indonesia, which had a 1-year training in microgames development. We applied a quantitative approach to collect the data via online questionnaires through google form. Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) with AMOS software was used to analyze the proposed model. Empirical results confirmed the perceived easy to use and subjective norm influence (PEU and SN) relationship with teachers’ microgame usage behaviors and intentions. In this condition, SN was found to have the initial significant influence on behavioral intention (BI), as attitude, BI, and facilitating conditions also correlated with the actual use of microgames. Furthermore, the largest influential factor was BI, with the results subsequently showing that TPACK had no significant influence on the actual use of microgames. This report is expected to help bridge the gap across several previous studies, as well as contribute to the explanation and prediction of the factors influencing the teachers’ mathematical utilization of the study’s program. Besides this, it also helps to increase the use of microgames in teaching and learning activities.
I determine my learning path, or not? A study of different learner control conditions in online video-based learning
Authors: Li Lu , Wang Xinghua , Wallace Matthew P.
Published: September 2022

Learner control is an important instructional design in video-based learning. This study assessed two conditions: a full learner control where learners direct their learning path, and a hybrid learner control where learners follow the instructor-set path but still enjoy certain aspects of control. Two groups of university students participated in this study by learning statistics through online video courses. The findings show that the full learner control condition attained higher learning performance than the hybrid learner control condition, but spent more time than the latter. The full learner control condition scored higher than the hybrid condition in the difficult sections of video-based learning; but no significant difference was found in the easy section. There was a significant difference between the two conditions in learning agency, but no differences in cognitive load and affective and cognitive engagement. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated differences between the full and the hybrid learner control conditions in the factors predicting overall scores. The findings carry important contributions and implications for the research and practice of instructional designs in online video-based learning such as MOOCs.
Let's talk about grief: Protocol of a study on the recognition and psychoeducation of prolonged grief disorder in outpatients with common mental disorders
Authors: Groen Simon P. N. , Menninga Marijke C. , Cath Daniëlle C. , Smid Geert E.
Published: September 2022

Background

Recognition that the loss of a loved one may result in prolonged grief disorder (PGD) has gained broad attention recently. PGD may disturb daily functioning to such a degree that mental health treatment is required. Because PGD symptoms often resemble symptoms of common mental disorders (CMD) such as anxiety, depressive, and post-traumatic stress disorder, clinicians may not consider a PGD diagnosis. Moreover, cultural varieties in expression of PGD may complicate recognition. This study explores the prevalence of PGD among both natives and refugees with anxiety, depressive, or trauma- and/or stressor-related disorders as well as clinicians' awareness and knowledge of PGD symptoms. In addition, a psychoeducation module on PGD symptoms is developed through patient expert collaboration.

Methods

Prevalence of PGD symptoms is investigated among 50 participants who are referred to outpatient clinics for anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress, using the Traumatic Grief Inventory—Self Report Plus (TGI-SR+) and the Bereavement and Grief—Cultural Formulation Interview (BG-CFI). Clinicians will be interviewed on knowledge (gaps) with respect to PGD symptoms. Finally, focus groups with patient experts are held to develop a psychoeducation module tailored to the patients' needs, norms and values.

Results

This study will show prevalence of PGD among patients who are referred for anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress, awareness and knowledge of clinicians on PGD symptoms, and will offer patient expert informed psychoeducation.

Discussion

Research on prevalence and recognition of PGD is vital. Study results of the prevalence of PGD will be compared to previous studies. Recognition of PGD as distinct disorder from CMDs requires clinicians' awareness of symptoms related to the loss of a loved one. Thereby, clinicians need to take cultural aspects related to death, bereavement and mourning into consideration.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol will be carried out in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations. Exploratory research to assess the prevalence of PGD in patients suffering from CMDs will facilitate adequate diagnosis by increasing clinician's awareness of PGD symptoms. Tailored PGD psychoeducation, co-created by culturally diverse patient experts and clinicians will be made publicly available.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward COVID-19: A cross-sectional study during normal management of the epidemic in China
Authors: Yang Juan , Liao Yuting , Hua Qianhui , Sun Chang , Lv Huakun
Published: September 2022

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic is striking the world with serious public health and economic losses. Complying with precautionary measures is affected by knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) toward COVID-19 among the general public, so it is urgent to know the public's awareness of COVID-19 as to promote the epidemic management of COVID-19 in China.

Methods

An online sample of Chinese residents was recruited. We administered a self-developed online KAP survey comprising 39 questions regarding awareness of COVID-19, transmission mode, symptoms, preventive measures, and respondents' attitudes and practices with respect to COVID-19. The total score of each item (knowledge, attitudes, and practices) adopts the ten points system, score of KAP is 30 points. Descriptive statistics, analysis of variance, and binomial logistic regression were used in the statistical analysis.

Results

Among respondents, average scores for COVID-19-related knowledge, attitudes, and practice were 8.94 ± 0.79, 5.97 ± 1.58, and 7.03 ± 3.14, respectively. 91.2% were aware that COVID-19 is an acute viral infection and 99.95% knew that wearing a mask is one way to prevent COVID-19 infection. Participants correctly identified the symptoms of COVID-19 with a high accuracy rate of over 85%.

Conclusion

Many adults in the present study had adequate knowledge, a positive attitude and engaged in correct practices against COVID-19. People in China have a high awareness of epidemic prevention and control. However, conducting KAP surveys among people with different demographic characteristics at different stages of the epidemic is important to improve public health education and implement proper COVID-19 prevention and control measures.
Association of the efficiency of hemodialysis instruments in the removal of microbial and chemical pollutant
Authors: Shahriyari Habib Allah , Jalil Abduladheem Turki , Sarizadeh Gholamreza , Shodmonova Zebuniso R. , Takdastan Afshin , Kiani Fatemeh , Mohammadi Mohammad Javad
Published: September 2022

Dialysis water is vital because of various harmful contaminants for patients. The aim of this study was to assess the efficiency of hemodialysis instruments in the removal of microbial and chemical pollutant in educational hospitals affiliated to Ahvaz Jundishapur University of medical sciences, Iran during 2018–2019. This cross-sectional descriptive research studied the microbial and chemical water quality of hemodialysis instruments in Razi, Sina, and Golestan hospitals in Ahwaz, Iran. 72 samples of microbial parameters and 24 samples of chemical parameters were collected from water used in hemodialysis instruments, including microbial characteristics (the total coliform, fecal coliform and heterotrophic bacteria counts) and chemical characteristics (pH, turbidity, PO4, Cl, Mg, So4, Ca, NO2, and EC) at Razi, Imam, and Golestan educational hospitals on all weekdays during 2018-2019. In this study, experiments were done according to the current standard methods, EPA from hemodialysis instruments. Finally, using SPSS18 software and descriptive statistics, the relationship between results at the removal of toxic, microbial, and chemical pollutants in different months and hospitals was investigated. this study showed that the average concentration of chemical characteristics during the warm season at Razi, Imam, and Golestan educational hospitals for pH, Turbidity, PO4, Cl, Mg, So4, Ca, NO2, and EC were (6.867, 6.4475, 6.53); (2.985, 3.035, 1.226); (0.075, 0.245, 0.195); (38.5, 21.965, 144.87); (1.552, 1.657, 39.445); (8.6, 4.5, 21.5), (2.09, 3.187, 78.975); (0.0082, 0.038, 0.155), and (125.25, 70.35, 78.35), respectively during 2018. Also, during 2019, results showed that the average levels of amounts for pH, Turbidity, PO4, Cl, Mg, So4, Ca, NO2, and EC in Razi, Imam, and Golestan educational hospitals were (7.077, 7.252, 6.435), (1.725, 0.595, 4.16), (0.0775, 0.0597, 0.0297), (52.33, 138.81, 20.92), (23.52, 18.227, 8.767), (35, 27.25, 4.05), (14.58, 28.152, 9.25), (0.0067, 0.0045, 0.0032), and (210.52, 121.62, 29.16), respectively. According to the results, hemodialysis instruments in Razi and Imam have a 90% efficiency in removing heterotrophic bacteria counts (HPC). Based on these findings, educational hospital hemodialysis equipment effluent in Ahvaz, Iran was mitted to Iran environmental standards for use in hemodialysis machines. The result showed that the removal percentage level of microbial and chemical pollutants by the hemodialysis process is comparatively suitable. It should be mentioned that in the proper operation and reconstruction, hemodialysis systems can have an increased rate of removal of microbial and chemical pollutants.
Nurses' knowledge on pressure ulcer prevention: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis based on the Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Assessment Tool
Authors: Wu Jing , Wang Bangjun , Zhu Liping , Jia Xiaoli
Published: September 2022

Background

Pressure ulcers (PUs) are an indicator of the quality of nursing care and nurses can prevent PUs well if they have sufficient knowledge. Numerous studies in this field have reported different results. The aim of this study was to estimate the pooled score of nurses' knowledge about PU prevention based on the Pressure Ulcer Knowledge Assessment Tool (PUKAT).

Methods

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, databases including Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Scopus were searched. All studies published in English between 2011 and 2022 that reported the status of nurses' knowledge of PU prevention based on PUKAT were included in the analysis. Based on heterogeneity between the studies, the data were analyzed using a random effects model.

Results

The pooled scores of PU prevention knowledge in nurses and nursing students were (51.5%; 95% CI: 45.8–57.2%) and (48.9%; 95% CI: 42.5–55.2%), respectively. As the age of the participants increased, the pooled score of pressure ulcer prevention knowledge increased significantly (p = 0.028). The publication bias was not significant. The highest and lowest knowledge scores in nurses and nursing students were related to the fourth dimension (nutrition) and the fifth dimension (preventive measures to reduce the amount of pressure/shear), respectively.

Conclusion

Knowledge of nurses and nursing students about PU prevention is insufficient. Providing regular training to nurses and including the principles of PU prevention in the curriculum of nursing students to improve their knowledge seems necessary.
The changing landscape of cerebral revascularization surgery: A United Kingdom experience
Authors: Gallagher Mathew J. , Frantzias Joseph , Kailaya-Vasan Ahilan , Booth Thomas C. , Tolias Christos M.
Published: September 2022

Objective

We describe the chronological trends in cerebral revascularization surgery through a single-surgeon experience; and we review whether in the context of giant and fusiform cerebral aneurysms, flow-diverting stents have impacted on the use of cerebral revascularization surgery.

Methods

We review our single institution prospectively collected database of cerebral revascularization procedures between 2006 and 2018. Comparing this to our database of flow-diverting endovascular stent procedures, we compare the treatment of fusiform and giant aneurysms. We describe patient demographics, procedural incidence, complications, and outcomes.

Results

Between 2006 and 2018, 50 cerebral revascularization procedures were performed. The incidence of cerebral revascularization surgery is declining. In the context of giant/fusiform aneurysm treatment, the decline in cerebral revascularization is accompanied by a rise in the use of flow-diverting endovascular stents. Thirty cerebral revascularizations were performed for moyamoya disease and 11 for giant/fusiform aneurysm. Four (14%) direct bypass grafts occluded without neurological sequela. Other morbidity included hydrocephalus (2%), transient ischemic attacks (2%), and ischemic stroke (2%). There was one procedure-related mortality (2%). Flow-diverting stents were inserted for seven fusiform and seven giant aneurysms. Comparing the treatment of giant/fusiform aneurysms, there was no significant difference in morbidity and mortality between cerebral revascularization and flow-diverting endovascular stents.

Conclusion

We conclude that with the decline in the incidence of cerebral revascularization surgery, there is a need for centralization of services to allow high standards and outcomes to be maintained.
Genetic optimization of asteroid families’ membership
Authors: Lourenço M. V. F. , Carruba V.
Published: September 2022

Asteroid families are groups of asteroids with a common origin, such as prior collisions or the parent body’s rotational fission. In proper [a, e, sin(i)] element domains, they are generally observed using the hierarchical clustering technique (HCMs), but the method may be ineffective in high-density regions, where it may be unable to separate near families. Previous works employed a different technique in which nine different machine learning classification algorithms were applied to the orbital distribution in proper elements of 21 known family constituents for the goal of new members’ identification. Each algorithm’s optimal hyper-parameters for every family were extensively investigated, which proved to be a time-consuming and repetitive procedure. Herein, we used a genetic algorithm-based tool to identify the most optimal machine learning algorithm for the same studied asteroid families as an alternative to the originally utilized parameter search mode. When compared to the same evaluative metrics utilized in the previous machine learning application study, the precision values of the new genetic machine learning algorithms have been consistently comparable, demonstrating that this alternative technique can be satisfactorily efficient and fast.
Demystifying risk attitudes and fertilizer use: A review focusing on the behavioral factors associated with agricultural nitrogen emissions in South Asia
Authors: Begho Toritseju , Eory Vera , Glenk Klaus
Published: September 2022

Fertilizer use is environmentally unsustainable in South Asia. Ideally, farmers would follow optimal fertilization rates for crops based on scientific recommendations. However, there is ample evidence on why farmers under-fertilize or over-fertilize their crops. Important amongst them is that farmers' attitude to risk influences decisions on fertilizer use. This paper reviews studies on the effects of risk attitude on fertilizer use, the timing of application, and application intensity. We observe that the use of fertilizer is affected by perceptions of fertilizer as a risk-enhancing or risk-reducing input. In order to influence the future fertilizer decisions of farmers, several policy measures are suggested. Among these, gradual withdrawal of fertilizer subsidies, repurposing subsides toward improved technologies that increase productivity, improves nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and reduce emission, providing enhanced-efficiency fertilizers and eliminating the fraudulent practice of fertilizer adulteration may be the most appropriate in a South Asian context.
Development of an indirect ELISA for the identification of African swine fever virus wild-type strains and CD2v-deleted strains
Authors: Jiang Wenting , Jiang Dawei , Li Lu , Wan Bo , Wang Jiabin , Wang Panpan , Shi Xuejian , Zhao Qi , Song Jinxing , Zhu Zixiang , Ji Pengchao , Zhang Gaiping
Published: September 2022

African swine fever (ASF) is a potent infectious disease with detrimental effects on the global swine industry and no currently vaccine available. The emergence of low-virulence CD2v-deleted mutants manifested as non-hemadsorption (non-HAD) strains represents a significant challenge to the prevention and control of ASF. In this study, we aimed to establish an indirect ELISA (IELISA) method for the identification of ASFV wild-type and CD2v-deleted strains. We integrated the CD2v protein extracellular domain sequence (CD2v-Ex, 1–588 bp) of the highly pathogenic strain China/2018/AnhuiXCGQ into the genome of suspension culture-adapted Chinese hamster Ovary-S (CHO-S) cells using lentivirus vectors (LVs). By screening, we identified a monoclonal CHO-S cell line that stably expressed secretory CD2v-Ex Protein. We then used the purified CD2v-Ex Protein as the detection antigen to establish an indirect ELISA method (CD2v-IELISA) for identification of the ASFV wild-type and CD2v-Deleted (CD2v−) strains. The CD2v-IELISA method showed excellent specificity with no cross-reaction with serum samples infected with ASFV (CD2v−), porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), classical swine fever virus (CSFV), porcine circovirus (PCV), porcine pseudorabies virus (PRV), swine foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV) and porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV). Furthermore, this method showed high sensitivity, allowing identification of ASFV-infected clinical serum samples up to a dilution of 1:2,560. The coefficient of variation both in and between batches was <10% with good reproducibility and a high compliance rate of 99.4%. This CD2v-IELISA method developed here is of great significance for the prevention, control and purification of ASFV.
Pets for pediatric transplant recipients: To have or not to have
Authors: Platero Lucía , Garcia-Sanchez Paula , Sainz Talía , Calvo Cristina , Iglesias Irene , Esperon Fernando , de la Fuente Ricardo , Frauca Esteban , Perez-Martinez Antonio , Mendez-Echevarria Ana
Published: September 2022

Pets have many health, emotional and social benefits for children, but the risk of zoonotic infections cannot be underestimated, especially for immunosuppressed patients. We report the recommendations given by health professionals working with pediatric transplant recipients to their families regarding pet ownership. An online survey addressing zoonosis knowledge and recommendations provided by health care practitioners regarding pets was distributed to clinicians treating pediatric transplant recipients. The European Society of Pediatric Infectious Disease (ESPID) and the European Reference Network ERN-TransplantChild, which works to improve the quality of life of transplanted children, allowed the online distribution of the survey. A total of 151 practitioners from 28 countries participated in the survey. Up to 29% of the respondents had treated at least one case of zoonosis. Overall, 58% of the respondents considered that the current available evidence regarding zoonotic risk for transplanted children of having a pet is too scarce. In addition, up to 23% of the surveyed professionals recognized to be unaware or outdated. Still, 27% of the respondents would advise against buying a pet. Practitioners already owning a pet less frequently advised patients against pet ownership, whereas non-pet-owners were more keen to advise against pet ownership (p = 0.058). 61% of the participants stated that there were no institutional recommendations regarding pets in their centers/units. However, 43% of them reported therapeutic initiatives that involved animals in their centers. Infectious disease specialists were more likely to identify zoonotic agents among a list of pathogens compared to other specialists (p < 0.05). We have observed a huge heterogeneity among the recommendations that health care providers offer to families in terms of risk related to pet ownership for transplant recipients. The lack of evidence regarding these recommendations results in practitioners' recommendations based on personal experience.
The Role of Stereotactic Radiotherapy in the Management of Melanoma, A Retrospective Single Institute Preliminary Study of 30 Patients
Authors: Kispál Mihály , Jánváry Levente Zsolt , Balatoni Tímea , Gábor Stelczer , Fedorcsák Imre , Katalin Bőcs , Kenessey István , Liszkay Gabriella
Published: September 2022

Cutaneous melanoma is the third most common type of skin cancer in the world. The incidence of melanoma is increasing in most countries, however, mortality seems to be slowly decreasing. The treatment of advanced cutaneous melanoma changed radically since 2011. The new therapeutic modalities, such as immuno- and targeted therapies give a chance to successfully reach more prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with metastatic melanoma. Despite the great therapeutic benefit, most patients eventually develop resistance to these therapies, and the disease will progress. In some cases oligoprogression develops. In those cases local therapy, such as stereotactic radiotherapy can make it possible to continue the previously applied effective medical treatment for the benefit of patients. In our study of a total of 30 patients—20 of them received pre-treatment with systemic medical therapy—received stereotactic radiotherapy using various systems, in the National Institute of Oncology, Hungary, Budapest. We managed to prolong the systemic therapy for 12.5 months median period with the assistance of CyberKnife technique. Therapy related adverse events were mostly tolerable with only 3% of Grade 3 toxicity. We concluded that stereotactic radiotherapy and stereotactic radiosurgery, are safe, and effective therapeutic modalities for regional tumor control in cases of oligoprogression.
Advances in Food Flavor Analysis
Authors: Genovese Alessandro , Caporaso Nicola
Published: September 2022

Food flavour is an important key driver in consumer acceptability [...]
Nanocomposites with Different Types of Nanofillers and Advanced Properties for Several Applications
Authors: Bikiaris Dimitrios N.
Published: September 2022

Polymer nanocomposites are an emerging technological field offering high-performance materials with unique and innovative properties, ideal for numerous advanced applications [...]
The Effect of Two Interventions to Increase Breast Cancer Screening in Rural Women
Authors: Champion Victoria L. , Monahan Patrick O. , Stump Timothy E. , Biederman Erika B. , Vachon Eric , Katz Mira L. , Rawl Susan M. , Baltic Ryan D. , Kettler Carla D. , Zaborski Natalie L. , Paskett Electra D.
Published: September 2022

Guideline-based mammography screening is essential to lowering breast cancer mortality, yet women residing in rural areas have lower rates of up to date (UTD) breast cancer screening compared to women in urban areas. We tested the comparative effectiveness of a tailored DVD, and the DVD plus patient navigation (PN) intervention vs. Usual Care (UC) for increasing the percentage of rural women (aged 50 to 74) UTD for breast cancer screening, as part of a larger study. Four hundred and two women who were not UTD for breast cancer screening, eligible, and between the ages of 50 to 74 were recruited from rural counties in Indiana and Ohio. Consented women were randomly assigned to one of three groups after baseline assessment of sociodemographic variables, health status, beliefs related to cancer screening tests, and history of receipt of guideline-based screening. The mean age of participants was 58.2 years with 97% reporting White race. After adjusting for covariates, 54% of women in the combined intervention (DVD + PN) had a mammogram within the 12-month window, over 5 times the rate of becoming UTD compared to UC (OR = 5.11; 95% CI = 2.57, 10.860; p < 0.001). Interactions of the intervention with other variables were not significant. Significant predictors of being UTD included: being in contemplation stage (intending to have a mammogram in the next 6 months), being UTD with other cancer screenings, having more disposable income and receiving a reminder for breast screening. Women who lived in areas with greater Area Deprivation Index scores (a measure of poverty) were less likely to become UTD with breast cancer screening. For rural women who were not UTD with mammography screening, the addition of PN to a tailored DVD significantly improved the uptake of mammography. Attention should be paid to certain groups of women most at risk for not receiving UTD breast screening to improve breast cancer outcomes in rural women.
Oncologic Benefits of Neoadjuvant Treatment versus Upfront Surgery in Borderline Resectable Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jung Hye-Sol , Kim Hyeong Seok , Kang Jae Seung , Kang Yoon Hyung , Sohn Hee Ju , Byun Yoonhyeong , Han Youngmin , Yun Won-Gun , Cho Young Jae , Lee Mirang , Kwon Wooil , Jang Jin-Young
Published: September 2022

Neoadjuvant treatment (NAT) followed by surgery is the primary treatment for borderline resectable pancreatic cancer (BRPC). However, there is limited high-level evidence supporting the efficacy of NAT in BRPC. PubMed was searched to identify studies that compared the survival between BRPC patients who underwent NAT and those who underwent upfront surgery (UFS). The overall survival (OS) was compared using intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis. A total of 1204 publications were identified, and 19 publications with 21 data sets (2906 patients; NAT, 1516; UFS, 1390) were analyzed. Two randomized controlled trials and two prospective studies were included. Thirteen studies performed an ITT analysis, while six presented the data of resected patients. The NAT group had significantly better OS than the UFS group in the ITT analyses (HR: 0.63, 95% CI = 0.53–0.76) and resected patients (HR: 0.68, 95% CI = 0.60–0.78). Neoadjuvant chemotherapy with gemcitabine or S-1 and FOLFIRINOX improved the survival outcomes. Among the resected patients, the R0 resection and node-negativity rates were significantly higher in the NAT group. NAT improved the OS, R0 resection rate, and node-negativity rate compared with UFS. Standardizing treatment regimens based on high-quality evidence is fundamental for developing an optimal protocol.
Surgical Management of Recurrent Brain Metastasis: A Systematic Review of Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy
Authors: Damante Mark A. , Wang Joshua L. , Elder J. Bradley
Published: September 2022

The incidence of recurrent metastatic brain tumors is increasing due to advances in local therapy, including surgical and radiosurgical management, as well as improved systemic disease control. The management of recurrent brain metastases was previously limited to open resection and/or irradiation. In recent years, laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) has become a promising treatment modality. As systemic and intracranial disease burden increases in a patient, patients may no longer be candidates for surgical resection. LITT offers a relatively minimally invasive option for patients that cannot tolerate or do not want open surgery, as well as an option for accessing deep-seated tumors that may be difficult to access via craniotomy. This manuscript aims to critically review the available data regarding the use of LITT for recurrent intracranial brain metastasis. Ten of seventy-two studies met the criteria for review. Generally, the available literature suggests that LITT is a safe and feasible option for the treatment of recurrent brain metastases involving supratentorial and cortical brain, as well as posterior fossa and deep-seated locations. Among all studies, only one directly compared craniotomy to LITT in the setting of recurrent brain metastasis. Prospective studies are needed to better elucidate the role of LITT in the management of recurrent brain metastases.
Microtubule Dynamics and Cancer
Authors: Ritter Andreas , Kreis Nina-Naomi
Published: September 2022

Microtubules (MTs) are highly dynamic key components of the cytoskeleton composed of alpha- and beta-tubulin heterodimers [...]
CDH1 (E-cadherin) Gene Methylation in Human Breast Cancer: Critical Appraisal of a Long and Twisted Story
Authors: Bücker Lara , Lehmann Ulrich
Published: September 2022

Epigenetic inactivation of a tumor suppressor gene by aberrant DNA methylation is a well-established defect in human tumor cells, complementing genetic inactivation by mutation (germline or somatic). In human breast cancer, aberrant gene methylation has diagnostic, prognostic, and predictive potential. A prominent example is the hypermethylation of the CDH1 gene, encoding the adhesion protein E-Cadherin (“epithelial cadherin”). In numerous publications, it is reported as frequently affected by gene methylation in human breast cancer. However, over more than two decades of research, contradictory results concerning CDH1 gene methylation in human breast cancer accumulated. Therefore, we review the available evidence for and against the role of DNA methylation of the CDH1 gene in human breast cancer and discuss in detail the methodological reasons for conflicting results, which are of general importance for the analysis of aberrant DNA methylation in human cancer specimens. Since the loss of E-cadherin protein expression is a hallmark of invasive lobular breast cancer (ILBC), special attention is paid to CDH1 gene methylation as a potential mechanism for loss of expression in this special subtype of human breast cancer. Proper understanding of the methodological basis is of utmost importance for the correct interpretation of results supposed to demonstrate the presence and clinical relevance of aberrant DNA methylation in cancer specimens.
Study on the Role of MicroRNA-214 in the Rehabilitation of Cartilage in Mice with Exercise-Induced Traumatic Osteoarthritis
Authors: Cao Hong , Zhou Xuchang , Li Hui , Wang Miao , Wu Wei , Zou Jun
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to explore the possible relationship between the expression of Micro RNA-214 (miR-214) and the pathogenesis and recovery in mice with post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). In this study, 40 male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups: model control (MC) group, model (M) group, rehabilitation control (RC) group, model + rehabilitation (M + R) group, and model + convalescent (M + C) group. Four weeks of high-intensity treadmill exercise (HITE) and 4 weeks of moderate-intensity treadmill exercise (MITE) were implemented for PTOA modeling and rehabilitation, respectively. In vitro, 10% elongation mechanical strain was used for IL-1β stimulated chondrocytes. We found that compared with the MC group, there was a significant increase in the aspect of inflammation and catabolism while a dramatic fall in miR-214 expression was observed in the M group. After the 4 weeks of MITE, the level of inflammation and metabolism, as well as miR-214 expression, was partially reversed in the M + R group compared with the M + C group. The expression of miR-214 decreased dramatically after chondrocyte stimulation by IL-1β and then increased significantly after 10% strain was applied to IL-1β-treated cells. These results suggest that a suitable mechanical load can increase the expression of miR-214, and that miR-214 may play a chondroprotective effect in the development of OA.
Identification of Age-Associated Transcriptomic Changes Linked to Immunotherapy Response in Primary Melanoma
Authors: El-Helbawy Nehal Farid , El Zowalaty Ahmed Ezat
Published: September 2022

Melanoma is a lethal form of skin cancer. Immunotherapeutic agents such as anti-PD-1 (pembrolizumab and nivolumab) and anti-CTLA-4 (ipilimumab) have revolutionized melanoma treatment; however, drug resistance is rapidly acquired. Several studies have reported an increase in melanoma rates in older patients. Thus, the impact of ageing on transcriptional profiles of melanoma and response to immunotherapy is essential to understand. In this study, the bioinformatic analysis of RNA seq data of old and young melanoma patients receiving immunotherapy identifies the significant upregulation of extra-cellular matrix and cellular adhesion genes in young cohorts, while genes involved in cell proliferation, inflammation, non-canonical Wnt signaling and tyrosine kinase receptor ROR2 are significantly upregulated in the old cohort. Several Treg signature genes as well as transcription factors that are associated with dysfunctional T cell tumor infiltration are differentially expressed. The differential expression of several genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation, glycolysis and glutamine metabolism is also observed. Taken together, this study provides novel findings on the impact of ageing on transcriptional changes in melanoma, and novel therapeutic targets for future studies.
International Migration of Human Resources in the Conditions of Social Transformations
Authors: Lami Blendi , Tarasenko Iryna , Shyshova Olha , Voropayeva Tatiana , Verhun Antonina
Published: September 2022

The complexity and multidimensionality of international migration, as a form of international economic relations in the current conditions of the global economy, requires a review of scientific approaches to its study and understanding. The paper aims to develop a systematic study of the international migration of human resources under conditions of social transformation, by analyzing the positive and negative economic consequences for labor-exporting and labor-importing countries. The methods of cognition used in this study included statistical methods and comparative analysis, to assess the geo-economic risks facing countries and regions; economic–mathematical modeling with correlation–regression to build a model for assessing the attractiveness of migration, and for verification and testing of the model; and a graphic–analytical approach to illustrate the examined processes. As a result, a system of determinants of the formation of motives for migration is suggested. These include economic, socio-demographic, political–security, linguistic–cultural, and ecological–natural determinants. The suggested mechanism for parameterizing the migration attractiveness of countries is the identification of which indicators should be taken into account when studying and formalizing the preconditions of migration processes. Based on the identified need to compare countries according to factors of “attraction–repulsion”, using the proposed list of determinants of migration motives, a model of a country’s migration attractiveness was formalized. The model was tested using EU indicators for 2014–2020. The relationship between migration attractiveness and the number of asylum applications in the EU was analyzed, and a high inverse relationship density was established. As a result, the use of the developed model makes it possible to explain and predict migration flows between countries, through the prism of the migratory attractiveness of countries for potential migrants.
Graphical Ways to Visualize Operational Risk Results for Transmission System Contingencies
Authors: Nazir Zunaira , Bollen Math H. J.
Published: September 2022

The increased complexity of the transmission grid can endanger the operational security of the grid. Operational risk assessment, a stochastic tool, helps to enhance security. Contingency analysis and its impact quantification are the main constituents of operational risk assessment. In this study, different graphical methods are proposed to visualize operational risk contingency-based detailed results: heat-map and risk-based contingency chart. Through the heat-map, the system operator can determine which contingencies contribute most to the operational risk and would therefore be the most threatening contingencies for operational security of the grid. The “risk-based contingency chart” allows the system operator to analyze contingency cases from the probability and impact aspect in one chart. Both tools may be used in the control room for improved operational planning. In this study of contingency analysis and various types of network studies of severity factor quantification, the IEEE 39-Bus sample network is used in Power-Factory to analyze the contingencies behavior under different operational scenarios.
Journey into the Local Market in Search of “Glitter” Microparticles: Mini Product Investigation and Relative Chemical-Physical Characterization
Authors: Piccardo Manuela , Anselmi Serena , Renzi Monia
Published: September 2022

There is one type of primary microplastic, glitter, which has not received the same attention as microbeads. The general thought associates the use of glitter with extraordinary and rare events, in reality, its presence in everyday life is much more ubiquitous than one might think. The main objective of this preliminary study was to create a mini product survey with the aim of analyzing the distribution and composition of glitter in the local market of the city of Trieste (Italy), thus creating a starting point for larger future studies. The analysis of a real context served as a snapshot for the description of the phenomenon, from which useful information was obtained: glitter is everywhere, cheap, disperses easily in the environment, is made of different materials, often has sharp-edged shapes, and mainly affects sensitive audiences, such as children. It is time to put glitter in the spotlight.
Incidence, Hospitalization, Mortality and Risk Factors of COVID-19 in Long-Term Care Residential Homes for Patients with Chronic Mental Illness
Authors: Arnedo-Pena Alberto , Romeu-Garcia María , Gasco-Laborda Juan , Meseguer-Ferrer Noemi , Safont-Adsuara Lourdes , Guillen-Grima Francisco , Tirado-Balaguer María , Sabater-Vidal Susana , Gil-Fortuño María , Pérez-Olaso Oscar , Hernández-Pérez Noelia , Moreno-Muñoz Rosario , Bellido-Blasco Juan
Published: September 2022

Long-term care residential homes (LTCRH) for patients with chronic mental illness have suffered the enormous impact of COVID-19. This study aimed to estimate incidence, hospitalization, mortality, and risk factors of COVID-19 to prevent future epidemics. From March 2020 to January 2021 and before vaccination anti-SARS-CoV-2 begins, cumulate incidence rate (CIR), hospitalization rate (HR), mortality rate (MR), and risk factors of COVID-19 in the 11 LTCRH of two Health Departments of Castellon (Spain) were studied by epidemiological surveillance and an ecological design. Laboratory tests confirmed COVID-19 cases, and multilevel Poisson regression models were employed. All LTCRH participated and comprised 346 residents and 482 staff. Residents had a mean age of 47 years, 40% women, and suffered 75 cases of COVID-19 (CIR = 21.7%), five hospitalizations (HR = 1.4%), and two deaths (MR = 0.6%) with 2.5% fatality-case. Staff suffered 74 cases of the disease (CIR = 15.4%), one hospitalization (HR = 0.2%), and no deaths were reported. Risk factors associated with COVID-19 incidence in residents were private ownership, severe disability, residents be younger, CIR in municipalities where LTCRH was located, CIR in staff, and older age of the facilities. Conclusion: COVID-19 incidence could be prevented by improving infection control in residents and staff and modernizing facilities with increased public ownership.