bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric Properties of the Piper Fatigue Scale-12
Authors: Joshwa Bincy , Templin Thomas N. , Campbell Margaret L.
Published: August 2023

Background and Purpose:The Piper Fatigue Scale (PFS)-12 is a recently shortened version of the original PFS that has 40 items. Psychometric evidence for PFS-12 from a small sample of individuals on hemodialysis is presented.Methods:The psychometric analysis with pilot data was done using a detailed item analysis, including Bland–Altman plots, exploratory factor analysis of pre- and post-item scores, and item change scores. Additional measures were used to investigate the validity including the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System-Fatigue Scale and the 6-minute walk test.Results:The sample consisted of 86 hemodialysis individuals. The internal consistency reliability of the PFS-12 total scale was 0.91 (pre), 0.95 (post), and subscale alphas were 0.79–0.94. Convergent, concurrent, and predictive validity of PFS-12 were supported. Construct validity of PFS-12 was confirmed predialysis and partially supported in the change score analysis.Conclusion:The brief 12-item PFS is a good alternative to the longer version of this scale to reduce the respondent burden and measure the overall fatigue; further validation in test–retest situations and subscale validity is needed.
Y la mujer despertó: la figura de Rosa en la comedia De tal siembra tal cosecha (1899), de Ángeles López de Ayala. Hacia un nuevo prototipo de feminidad en el cruce de los siglos XIX-XX
Authors: Martín-Clavijo Milagro
Published: August 2023

En este artículo se analiza la obra de teatro De tal siembra tal cosecha (1889), de Ángeles López de Ayala, una de las librepensadoras, republicanas y masonas más activas e importantes en la España a caballo entre los siglos XIX y XX, y una de las feministas de la época más comprometidas, tanto en la teoría como en la práctica. Además, se estudian los elementos que hacen de la protagonista de la obra una firme defensora de una idea distinta de los roles femeninos y masculinos, pero sin renunciar a ser madre y esposa. Desde el ámbito familiar, Rosa aboga por un papel activo de la mujer en la propia emancipación y postula una colaboración con el hombre en la relación de pareja, en consonancia con el pensamiento de la autora y los artículos que esta ha publicado en ese periodo.
Impacto de las prácticas de gestión de recursos humanos en la productividad laboral
Authors: Rodríguez Moreno Diana Cristina
Published: August 2023

El sistema de gestión del recurso humano tiene la función de lograr que las personas adquieran las competencias necesarias para lograr los objetivos de las organizaciones. En el aporte que el recurso humano realiza a la empresa, median diversos factores que definen el desempeño de la fuerza laboral. La productividad laboral es un indicador que permite observar el desempeño del recurso humano y su aporte a la consecución de metas organizacionales, que se define como la relación entre lo que produce y los insumos o costos de personal requerido para obtener los productos y servicios. Las prácticas de gestión del recurso humano están implícitamente orientadas a conseguir mayor productividad laboral, sin embargo, sus aportes no son fácilmente verificables porque son intangibles, quedan incrustados en el conocimiento habilidades de las personas. Este trabajo busca comprender el vínculo entre las prácticas de gestión del recurso humano y la productividad laboral.
Randomized Controlled Trial on the ASSYST Treatment Intervention with Female Children Polytraumatized by Adverse Childhood Experiences, Neglect, and Maltreatment
Authors: KP Carretero , A Delgadillo , AM Villarreal , JP Roque , A Poiré , N Mainthow , M Givaudan , I Jarero
Published: August 2023

The aim of this randomized controlled trial with an intention-to-treat analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness, efficacy, and safety of the Acute Stress Syndrome Stabilization Individual (ASSYST-I) treatment intervention in reducing posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms in female children polytraumatized by adverse childhood experiences, neglect, and maltreatment. A total of 40 female children met the inclusion criteria and participated in the study. Participants’ ages ranged from 8 to 17 years old (M =14.67 years). A two-arm randomized controlled trial (RCT) design was applied. PTSD symptoms were measured in three-time points for all participants in the study. Results showed that the intervention had a significant effect for time on PTSD symptoms (F (2,76) = 36.92 p <.000, η² = .493). A significant effect for group was also found (F (1, 38 = 32.7, p<.005, η² = .896) with a large effect, and a significant interaction between time and group, (F (2, 76) = 56.00, p <.000, η² = .600). Means comparison using t test between groups showed significant differences between the Treatment Group (TG) and the Control Group (CG) in the three-time points comparisons showing a large effect on Time 2 (Post-treatment assessment) which was maintained on Time 3 (Follow-up assessment). Results on the Reliable Change Index (RCI) and the Clinically Significant Change (CSC) Margin showed that the ASSYST-I treatment intervention exhibited reliable change on PTSD symptom reduction and clinically significant change, indicating that the treatment group participants are more likely to belong to the non-PTSD population after the intervention. Conversely, the control group participants are more likely to belong to the PTSD population. No adverse effects or events were reported by the participants during the treatment procedure administration or at follow-up. None of the participants showed clinically significant worsening/exacerbation of symptoms after treatment. Participants in the control group received the intervention treatment after the follow-up assessment, fulfilling our ethical criteria.
Effectuation and identity in entrepreneurship: A systematic review
Authors: Silva Antonio Donizete Ferreira da , Lima Edmilson de Oliveira
Published: August 2023

The study aimed to analyze the existing literature on the identity of the entrepreneur in connection with effectuation, characterizing the state of the art of research on the subject. A systematic literature review was carried out, which searched for publications indexed by Scopus (23 articles) and Web of Science (37 articles) from the last 21 years, being operationalized with the StArt tool. The results show that, with effectuation, the identity of the entrepreneur influences decisions, the type of opportunity explored, the objectives and the commitment of partners in the entrepreneurial process. It is concluded that, with effectuation, personal and social identities can guide effectual (intuitive) or causal (planned) behavior, which shapes the entrepreneurial activities.
Evaluation of the Approaches Adopted by the Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology Specialists and Medical Microbiology Specialists in the Case of Myroides spp. Growth in Urine Culture: A Survey Study
Authors: MUTLU YILMAZ Esmeray , BİLGİN Melek , GÜNAL Özgür
Published: August 2023

Myroides species are bacteria that, although rare, can cause a variety of serious infections, including urinary tract infections, and are often resistant to antibiotics. There are no studies on the knowledge and attitudes of specialists regarding Myroides spp. growth in culture in literature. In our study, the survey forms created with Google Forms (Google LLC, CA, USA) were shared in the e-mail groups of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology (IDCM) and Medical Microbiology (MM) specialties via electronic communication system. The results were evaluated statistically. 92 IDCM specialists and 75 MM specialists participated in the study. It was found that 48.9% of IDCM specialists and 20% of MM specialists have never seen Myroides spp. growth in a urine sample, and 32.6% of IDCM specialists and 14.9% of MM specialists still use the old name Flavobacterium for Myroides spp. (28.8% of MM specialists do not know that the name Flavobacterium is changed), and 45% of MM specialists who had previously seen Myroides spp. growth were able to recognize the Myroides spp. colony visually, and 53.3% of MM specialists who had previously seen Myroides spp. growth routinely performed antibiograms in case of Myroides spp. growth in urine culture, and 32.6% of IDCM specialists requested typing and sensitivity testing in case of Myroides spp. growth in urine culture, and 31.9% of IDCM specialists who had previously seen Myroides spp. growth considered Myroides spp. growth as a causative agent of infection in the presence of pyuria in urine, while 36.2% always considered it as colonization/contamination, and 61.7% of IDCM specialists only changed the catheter without giving antibiotics when they considered Myroides spp. as a causative agent of infection, while 21.3% gave antibiotics according to the antibiogram result. As a conclusion; our study is the first study in the world to investigate the knowledge and attitudes of infectious disease specialists and medical microbiologists about Myroides spp. growth in urine culture. The findings of our study showed particularly that approximately half of the IDCM specialists had not seen Myroides spp. growth in urine culture and that some of the specialists may have a low level of knowledge about Myroides spp.. Additionally, among the specialists participating in the study, it was shown that attitudes and approaches in the case of Myroides spp. growth in urine were not directly related to the hospital that they worked and their years of experience in specialty. Our findings suggest that MM and IDCM specialists need an update of their knowledge on Myroides spp.
Evaluation of the impact of supplying a marine diesel engine with a mixture of diesel oil and n-butanol on its efficiency and emission of toxic compounds
Authors: Zacharewicz Marcin , Socik Paweł , Wirkowski Paweł , Zadrąg Ryszard , Bogdanowicz Artur
Published: August 2023

The article presents the results of research on the impact of feeding marine reciprocating internal combustion engines with blends of diesel fuel and n-butanol on their performance parameters. The study includes a research plan and empirical results, in which the engine efficiency and emissions of harmful compounds in the exhaust gases were determined. The research indicates that it is resonable to use fuel blends containing n-butanol. N-butanol positively affect the concentration of NOx has positive impact on reducing the toxicity of exhaust gases. An important aspect of the passive defence of a vessel is the reduction of exhaust gas temperature under nominal loads.
Evaluation of the energy efficiency of electric vehicle drivetrains under urban operating conditions
Authors: Kropiwnicki Jacek , Gawłas Tomasz
Published: August 2023

In electric vehicles, as in hybrids vehicles, a very important factor affecting the energy efficiency of the powertrain is the ability to use the regenerative braking energy. Depending on the settings available in electric vehicles, the driver can choose different modes of operation: switch off the regenerative braking mode altogether, select the intensity of regenerative braking, or leave the control system in automatic mode. The last mode is often the only one available on eclectic vehicles, so the driver cannot decide whether to switch off or increase intensity of the regenerative braking. This paper presents a new method for evaluating the energy efficiency of electric vehicle powertrains under urban operating conditions. The presented method uses a procedure for mapping the operating conditions allowing to determine the reference level of energy consumption in relation to those recorded during the identifica-tion tests. Identification tests were carried out in the Tri-City area using electric vehicles of different purposes and operating parameters. Performed tests allowed to evaluate the regenerative braking efficiency of tested vehicle, which varies over a relatively wide range, for vehicle A from 33% to 77%, for vehicle B from 27% to 55% and for vehicle C from 36% to 58%. It can be concluded that one of the main factors determining the regenerative braking efficiency is the level of state of charge of the accumu-lator and the management algorithm used by the vehicle for controlling this parameter.
Market positioning of internal combustion engines and battery electric motors
Authors: Kęska Aleksandra , Dziubek Mateusz , Michalik Dawid
Published: August 2023

In order to examine the current market situation of combustion and battery electric engines in vehicles and to determine the type of strategy for the development of the automotive market, a SWOT analysis was carried out. Internal strengths and weaknesses as well as external opportunities and threats on the market of internal combustion and electric vehicles were assessed. The most important areas of their operation have been designated. A weighting system and a rating scale were selected. The results of the analysis showed that combustion vehicles belong to a conservative market area which promotes the designs that have been thriving for years and maximizes their advantages. Battery electric vehicles belong to an aggressive market area, with the strategy based on a quick response to consumer needs, allowing for the maximization of profits while maintaining innovation. The future of the transport sector will be determined by the focus on the promotion of ecological transport elements.
Gender relations in Canadian multicultural families
Authors: Drolet Marie , Mohamoud Hindia
Published: August 2023

This article is a secondary analysis of the data gathered from 12 focus groups which were set up in 2006 with 64 members of three communities (Somali, Chinese and Lebanese origins). Its aim is to explore the barriers to social integration encountered by young women from those communities, given that Bruns (2011) points out the need for more research into issues relating to young women. For each community, four focus groups were conducted, represented by four subgroups: young women, young men, adult women and men. Their verbatim comments were subjected to content analysis in terms of gender role socialisation. Regardless of cultural background, the young women objected to the pressure exerted on them to carry out gender-based roles and duties. They all faced barriers to their social integration and clearly recognized that a double standard exists: young men have more freedom and parents are generally stricter with their daughters. This cross-cultural observation leads us to reflect upon social work as it relates to young women and calls for meaningful intergenerational dialogue.
Combating Vaccine Hesitancy Requires Knowledge of Misfortunes and Controversies
Authors: Pinto Junior Vitor Laerte , Valadas Emília , Hanscheid Thomas
Published: August 2023

N/a.
Damak Yarığı Cerrahi Eğitiminde Yenilikçi ve Yerli Bir Ürün: Anatomik ve Modifiye Damak Yarığı Cerrahi Eğitim Modeli
Authors: KARA Murat , GÜL Burçin , YANILMAZ Deniz , AKBULUT Özge , GÖKALAN KARA İnci , ÖZGÜR Fatma Figen
Published: August 2023

Amaç
Damak yarığı cerrahisi hastanın küçük yaşına bağlı dar ağız açıklığı, dokuların küçük olması ve öngörülemeyen sonuçlar nedeniyle zorludur. Bu nedenlerden dolayı damak yarığı cerrahisi gerçekleştiren merkez ve cerrah sayısında yetersizlik söz konudur. Bu noktada çalışmamızın amacı damak yarığı cerrahi eğitiminde kullanılacak etkin, pratik, ulaşılabilir, yüksek gerçeklikli ve uygun maliyetli bir damak yarığı cerrahi eğitim modelinin üretimini sağlayarak etkinliğinin ortaya konmasıdır.
Gereç ve Yöntem
Model üretiminde kalıp olarak dokuz aylık damak yarıklı bebeklerin tomografi ve manyetik rezonans görüntüleri kullanılmıştır. Üç boyutlu modelleme ve basım aşamalarından sonra üretilen silikon bazlı yüksek gerçeklikli ve anatomik modeller cerrahlar tarafından görünüm, dokunma, bistüri (kesme), tutma, traksiyon ve dikiş hissiyatları pratik olarak değerlendirilmiştir. Takiben, mühendis ekibi tarafından laboratuvar testleri ile dokuların gerçekliği (yırtılma ve gerim kuvveti) test edilmiştir. Modellerin revizyonları sonrası düzenlenen cerrahi eğitim kursunda modelin etkinliği kayıt altına alınmıştır.
Bulgular
Dört yarık tipinde anatomik ve gerçekçi dört cerrahi eğitim modeli elde edilmiştir. Çalışmaya dahil olmayan tarafsız ve alanlarında uzman hakemlerin standardize değerlendirme formları kullanarak yaptıkları değerlendirmede modeller görünüm, anatomi ve cerrahi açıdan yeterli ölçüde gerçekçi olduğu, modelin anatomik yapısının literatürde tanımlanmış cerrahi tekniklerin gerçekleştirilmesine uygun olduğu ve cerrahi eğitimde etkin bir şekilde kullanılabileceği sonucuna varmışlarıdır. Kurs verilerinin analizinde ise, katılımcıların tamamında model cerrahisi ile rahat bir ortamda yapılan cerrahinin teorik bilginin pekiştirilmesi, pratik eğitim artması ile kendilerine olan cerrahi güveni belirgin bir şekilde arttırmıştır.
Sonuç
Damak yarığı cerrahi eğitiminde etkin, ulaşılabilir, yüksek gerçeklikli ve anatomik bir damak yarığı cerrahi eğitim modeli üretilerek etkinliği ortaya konmuştur.
Chest complications in autologous breast reconstruction
Authors: Leach Candice M. , Collins Meredith S.
Published: August 2023

Complications from autologous free flap reconstruction of the breast can present with both common surgical complications and unique complications at the chest recipient site. This review covers complications at the chest recipient site, including chest wall deformity, chronic pain, mastectomy skin flap necrosis, infection, pyoderma gangrenosum, bleeding complications, pneumothorax, chyle leak, and positive internal mammary lymph node metastasis.
O AÇAÍ NA ALIMENTAÇÃO ESCOLAR: NOTAS PRELIMINARES NO MUNICÍPIO DE IGARAPÉ-MIRI-PA
Authors: Oliveira Júnior Waldemar Borges de , Lima Michelli Pixuna
Published: August 2023

A presente pesquisa buscou verificar a valorização do fruto açaí no âmbito escolar, bem como se os que trabalham com a manipulação do fruto, possuem conscientização da importância de adotar boas práticas de higienização. Por se tratar de um alimento perecível, as más práticas de manipulação podem acelerar a degradação e a proliferação de agentes contaminantes no Suco (NOGUEIRA; FIGUEIREDO; MULLER, 2005). As informações coletadas ocorreram no período de 13 de maio a 30 de junho de 2019, na cidade de Igarapé-Miri - Pará, com gestores escolares, manipuladores do açaí, pontos de venda do fruto e setores da Secretaria de Educação do município. Os instrumentos e técnicas de pesquisas empregadas foram: entrevistas, questionário e observações sistemáticas. Os resultados demonstram: a) A preocupação de apanhadores quanto à procedimento de higiene e a falta de materiais para realização de trabalho de qualidade nos açaizais, b) as informações da Secretaria de Educação revelaram que das 111 escolas municipais, as 16 unidades de ensino urbanas são as mais beneficiadas com o açaí distribuído pela secretaria. Os resultados apontam ainda que 25% dos gestores urbanos compraram açaí para a escola em pontos de venda por conta própria - Pesquisas realizadas em 10 batedouros de açaí revelam as transformações nas estruturas e modo de manipulação do produto. Mediante ao exposto, podemos concluir que o açaí ofertado aos alunos das Instituições de Ensino público envolve inúmeros indivíduos, que igualmente como os gestores e coordenadores, possuem a responsabilidade de zelar pela saúde do alunado.
Savolitinib: A Promising Targeting Agent for Cancer
Authors: Lee Taeseung , Lee Sang Hyub
Published: August 2023

Savolitinib is a highly selective small molecule inhibitor of the mesenchymal epithelial transition factor (MET) tyrosine kinase, primarily developed for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with MET mutations. It is also being investigated as a treatment for breast, head and neck, colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, and other gastrointestinal cancers. In both preclinical and clinical studies, it has demonstrated efficacy in lung, kidney, and stomach cancers. Savolitinib is an oral anti-cancer medication taken as a 600 mg dose once daily. It can be used as a monotherapy in patients with non-small cell lung cancer with MET mutations, and in combination with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors for patients who have developed resistance to them. Furthermore, savolitinib has shown positive results in gastric cancer treatment, particularly in combination with docetaxel. As a result, this review aims to validate its efficacy in NSCLC and suggests its potential application in other gastrointestinal cancers, such as pancreatic cancer, based on related research in gastric and renal cancer.
Endocrine Mucin-Producing Sweat Gland Carcinoma: Case Presentation with a Comprehensive Review of the Literature
Authors: Cazzato Gerardo , Bellitti Emilio , Trilli Irma , Colagrande Anna , Sgarro Nicoletta , Scarcella Vincenza Sara , Lettini Teresa , Ingravallo Giuseppe , Piscitelli Domenico , Resta Leonardo , Lospalluti Lucia
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: Endocrine Mucin-Producing Sweat Gland Carcinoma (EMPSGC) is a rare low-grade, neuroendocrine-differentiated, cutaneous adnexal tumour, officially recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) Skin Tumours Classification in 2018 as a separate entity and homologue of endocrine ductal carcinoma in situ (eDCIS)/solid papillary carcinoma of the breast. Although it is more frequent in the female sex, between the sixth and seventh decade, in the peri-orbital region, EMPSGC has also been described in the male sex, in subjects under 60 and over 80, and in extra-eyelid localizations (cheek, temple, scalp), but also in extra-facial localizations (chest and scrotum). (2) Methods: We present the clinical case of a 71-year-old woman with an undated lesion of the scalp, which presented as a nodule, skin-coloured, 2.5 cm in maximum diameter. We also conduct a comprehensive literature review from 1997 to the end of 2022, consulting PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science (WoS), using the following keywords: "Endocrine mucin-producing sweat gland carcinoma" and/or "EMPSGC" and/or "skin" AND "cutaneous neoplasms", and following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A total of 248 patients were recorded with the majority, 146 females (58,8%) and 102 males (41,1%). The vast majority of the lesions were in the elides (peri-ocular region) and only a minority of cases involved the cheeks, supra-auricular, retro-auricular and occipital region, with very rare cases in the scalp, to which the present is also added (4) Conclusions: The morphological and immunophenotypical features are essential both for the correct diagnosis and to be able to classify this lesion among the corresponding eDCIS/solid papillary carcinoma of the breast, with neuroendocrine differentiation. Recent papers have attempted to shed light on the molecular features of EMPSGC and much remains to be done in the attempt to subtype the molecular profiles of these entities. Future studies with large case series, and especially with molecular biology techniques, will be needed to further add information about EMPSGC and its relationship in the PCMC spectrum.
The Need for Culturally Appropriate Food Allergy Management Strategies: The Indian Milk Ladder
Authors: Hosaagrahara Ramakrishna Somashekara , Shah Neil , C Acharyya Bhaswati , Durairaj Emmany , Verma Lalit , Sankaranarayanan Srinivas , Wadhwa Nishant , Venter Carina
Published: August 2023

Abstract:
Background: Cow’s milk allergy (CMA) is one of the most common and complex food allergies affecting children worldwide and with few exceptions, presents in the first few months of life. Baked milk containing diets are well tolerated in the majority of milk allergic children and allow dietary restrictions to be relaxed. In addition, the early introduction of tolerated forms of allergenic foods to the infant’s diet in small amounts may enhance the outgrowth of milk allergy through oral tolerance induction. The methods of milk introduction vary widely across the globe.
Methods: We convened an expert group to develop a comprehensive milk ladder based on calculated milk protein content using Indian foods. To validate the milk ladder, foods chosen for the ladder were analyzed and the ladder was re-evaluated based on amount cooked milk protein content.
Results: Combining expert consensus and validation of milk protein content, we created the world’s first milk ladder containing Indian foods. This is the first ladder that provides information on timing and temperature of cooking, with validated milk protein content.
Conclusions: This is the first milk ladder based on unique features of Indian food habits built by consensus of Indian experts along with international collaboration with quantified of milk protein in each step. We believe the “The Indian Milk Ladder” will be a very helpful tool for pediatricians helping manage CMA in children as well as their parents and caregivers, not only in India but in countries world-wide where these foods are commonly consumed.
Biopolitics, Immunity and Religion: A Brief Critical Reading of Roberto Esposito
Authors: Duque João Manuel
Published: August 2023

The relationship between religion and politics is a constant in the history of humanity. In the specific case of Western culture, it is possible to trace an archeology of the political as an effect of theological-political devices (essentially Christian-inspired). If we add to this the evolution of politics, in modern times, towards biopolitics, then the relationship focuses on very concrete topics. This is the case of the immunological process – from a personal, social, and philosophical perspective – thoroughly analyzed by Italian philosopher Roberto Esposito. In the context of his philosophical immunology, the place of religion is mainly archaeological and is interpreted critically. This article also aims to critically analyze his position, proposing a reading close to his thought but which is, at the same time, somewhat different.
Genes Involved by Dexamethasone in Prevention of Long-Term Memory Impairment Caused by Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Neuroinflammation
Authors: Shishkina Galina T. , Kalinina Tatiana S , Lanshakov Dmitry A. , Bulygina Veta V. , Komysheva Natalia P. , Bannova Anita V. , Drozd Uliana S. , Dygalo Nikolay N.
Published: August 2023

Inflammatory activation within the brain was linked to a decrease in cognitive abilities, however the molecular mechanisms implicated in the development of inflammatory-related cognitive dysfunction and its prevention are poorly understood. This study compared responses of hippocampal transcriptomes 3 months after the striatal infusion of lipopolysaccharide, alone (LPS; 30 µg) resulting in memory loss, or with dexamethasone (DEX; 5 mg/kg intraperitoneal) pretreatment, which abolished the long-term LPS-induced memory impairment. After LPS alone, a significant elevation in the expression of immunity/inflammatory-linked genes, including chemokine (Cxcl13), cytokines (Il1b, Tnfsf13b), and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II members (Cd74, RT1-Ba, RT1-Bb, RT1-Da, RT1-Db1) was revealed. DEX pretreatment did not change expression of these genes, but significantly affected expression of genes encoding ion channels, primarily calcium and potassium channels, regulators of glutamate (Slc1a2, Grm5, Grin2a) and GABA (Gabrr2, Gabrb2) neurotransmission which enriched in such GO biological processes as “Regulation of transmembrane transport”, “Cognition”, “Learning”, “Neurogenesis”, and “Nervous system development”. Taken together, the data suggest that: (1) pretreatment with DEX did not markedly affect LPS-induced prolonged inflammatory response; (2) DEX pretreatment can affect processes associated with glutamatergic signaling and nervous system development, possibly involved by that in the recovery of memory impairment induced by LPS
Exploring the Genotype-Dependent Toolbox of Wheat under Drought Stress
Authors: Vassileva Valya , Georgieva Mariyana , Zehirov Grigor , Dimitrova Anna
Published: August 2023

Drought stress imposes substantial constraints on the growth and production of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), a globally important cereal crop that is essential for food security. To mitigate these adverse effects, researchers are intensifying their efforts to comprehend how different genotypes respond to drought stress, aiding in the development of sustainable breeding and management strategies. This review summarized past and recent research on genotype-dependent responses of wheat to drought stress, encompassing morphological, physiological, biochemical, molecular, genetic, and epigenetic reactions in plants. Screening of drought-affected features at early developmental stages can provide valuable insights into the adult growth stages that are closely linked to plant productivity. The review underscores the importance of identifying key traits associated with drought resistance, and the potential of leveraging wheat diversity to select cultivars with desirable agronomic characteristics. It also highlights recent advancements in investigating Bulgarian wheat genotypes with varying levels of drought tolerance, specifically in detecting essential features contributing to drought tolerance. Cultivating drought-resistant wheat genotypes and understanding stress stability determinants could markedly contribute to enhancing wheat production and ensuring stable yields under changing climate conditions.
Correlation Analysis of Microbial Community Changes and Physicochemical Characteristics in Aged Vinegar Brewing
Authors: Hou Zhixing , Zhang Jinhua , Dang Ling , Xue Hugui , Chen Min , Bai Baoqin , Yang Yukun , Bo Tao , Fan Sanhong
Published: August 2023

In this paper, the main physicochemical characteristics and evolutionary laws of microbial community structure during the fermentation of aged vinegar were discussed, and the correlation between Cuqu and microorganisms and physicochemical characteristics during fermentation was explored. The results showed that there are significant differences in genera at different stages of fermentation, the main dominant bacteria in R1 are Bacillus, Lactobacillus, Aspergillus and Issatchenkia. At R2 fermentation stage, Lactobacillus, Acetobacter and Saccharomyces showed an upward trend and finally became absolute advantage bacteria. The main genus of bacteria at the end of overall fermentation is Aspergillus. Correlation analysis shows that in Cuqu, the bacterial genera that are significantly positively and negatively correlated with reducing sugars and amino acid nitrogen are the same, while the bacterial genera that are significantly positively and negatively correlated with pH and saccharification power are the same. During the fermentation process, pH, reducing sugar and saccharification ability are mainly positively correlated with bacterial genera. And research has found that during the fermentation process, the overall correlation between fungal communities and physicochemical characteristics is weaker compared to bacteria.
Mental Health Challenges during COVID-19 Pandemic: Experiences of Primary Healthcare Nurses in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Onwubu Stanley Chibuzor , Sibiya Maureen Nokuthula , Makgobole Mokgadi Ursula.
Published: August 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the mental health of individuals globally, and primary healthcare (PHC) nurses play a critical role in providing mental healthcare services. However, limited research has explored the experiences of PHC nurses in providing mental healthcare services during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study explored the experiences of PHC nurses in providing mental healthcare services during the pandemic in Durban, South Africa. The aim was to identify the challenges faced by healthcare providers and the potential for innovative approaches to improve access to care. A qualitative, exploratory design guided the study, and data were collected through in-depth interviews with twelve PHC nurses purposively selected. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings from interviews with primary healthcare nurses reveal that the pandemic exacerbated existing challenges, including medication adherence issues, fear and uncertainty among patients, vaccine hesitancy, decreased clinic visits, and the mental and emotional toll on both patients and healthcare workers. PHC nurses adapted their services by increasing outreach efforts, prioritising patient care, and utilising technology and non-governmental organisations’ (NGO) support. Challenges included reduced patient visits, complexities in healthcare provision, and lack of adequate support. Positive changes observed include increased mental health awareness among healthcare professionals and younger generations. Recommendations include implementing outreach and awareness campaigns, providing accurate information about COVID-19 and vaccinations, and promoting cultural sensitivity in mental healthcare provision.
Comparison between Neutralization Capacity of Antibodies Elicited by COVID-19 Natural Infection and Vaccination in Indonesia: A Prospective Cohort
Authors: Nurisyah Sitti , Iyori Mitsuhiro , Hasyim Ammar Abdurrahman , Sakamoto Akihiko , Hashimoto Hinata , Yamagata Kyouhei , Yamauchi Saya , Amru Khaeriah , Zainal Kartika Hardianti , Idris Irfan , Yoshida Shigeto , Djaharuddin Irawaty , Syafruddin Din , Bukhari Agussalim , Asih Puji Budi Setia , Yusuf Yenni
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: To fight for COVID-19 pandemic, immunity against SARS-CoV-2 should be achieved not only through natural infection but also vaccination. Controversies exist about the effect of COVID-19 vaccination on previously infected persons; (2) Methods: A prospective cohort was undergone to collect sera from unvaccinated survivors and vaccinated persons--with and without COVID-19 pre-infection. The sera were analysed for the anti-Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) titers by ELISA and for the capacity to neutralize the pseudovirus of the Wuhan-Hu-1 strain by luciferase assays; (3) Results; Neither the antibody titers nor the neutralization capacity was significantly different between the three groups. However, the correlation between the antibody titers and the percentage of viral neutralization derived from sera of unvaccinated survivors was higher than that from vaccinated persons with pre-infection (Spearman correlation coefficient (r) = -0.8558; 95% CI, -0.9259 to -0.7288), p <0.0001 vs -0. 581; 95% CI, -0.7679 to -0.3028; p = 0.0002, respectively), indicating the capacity to neutralize the virus is better among the unvaccinated individuals. (4) Conclusions: Vaccines induced anti-RBD titers as high as the natural infection with lower neutralization capacity, and it did not boost the immunity in pre-infected persons.
Transgenic Cotton Plants Overexpressing GhKAR or GhENR Exhibit Increased Seed Oil Content
Authors: Liu Li , Wang Dan , Hua Jinping , Kong Xianhui , Wang Xuwen , Wang Juan , Si Aijun , Zhao Fuxiang , Liu Wenhao , Yu Yu , Chen Zhiwen
Published: August 2023

Three carbon-chain extension genes associated with fatty acid synthesis in cotton, namely GhKAR, GhHAD, and GhENR, play important roles in oil accumulation in cotton seeds. In the present study, these three genes were cloned and characterized. The expression patterns of GhKAR, GhHAD and GhENR in the high seed oil content cultivars 10H1007, 10H1014, and 10H1041 differed somewhat compared with those of 2074B with low seed oil content at different stages of seed development. GhKAR showed all three cultivars showed higher transcript levels than that of 2074B at 10, 40 and 45 DPA. The expression pattern of GhHAD showed a lower transcript level than that of 2074B at both 10 and 30 DPA but higher transcript level than that of 2074B at 40 DPA. GhENR showed a lower transcript level than that of 2074B at both 15 and 30 DPA. The highest transcript levels of GhKAR and GhENR were detected at 15 DPA in 10H1007, 10H1014, and 10H1041 compared with 2074B. From 5 to 45 days post anthesis (DPA) cotton seed, the oil content accumulated continuously in the developing seed. Oil accumulation reached the peak at 40 DPA to 45 DPA and slightly decreased in mature seed. In addition, GhKAR and GhENR showed different expression patterns in fiber and ovule development processes, in which they showed high expression levels at 20 DPA during fiber elongation stage, but their expression level peaked at 15 DPA during ovule development processes. These two genes showed the lowest expression levels at the late seed maturation stage, while GhHAD showed peak at 10 DPA of fiber development. Compared to 2074B, the oil contents of GhKAR and GhENR overexpression lines increased 1.05~1.08 folds. These results indicated that GhHAD, GhENR and GhKAR were involved in both seed oil synthesis and fiber elongation with dual biological functions in cotton.
Systems Biology and Cytokines Potential Role in Lung Cancer Immunotherapy Targeting Autophagic Axis
Authors: Khilwani Riya , Singh Shailza
Published: August 2023

Lung cancer accounts for the highest number of deaths among men and women worldwide. Although extensive therapies, either alone or in conjunction with some specific drugs, continue to be the principal regimen for evolving lung cancer, significant improvements are still needed to understand the inherent biology behind progressive inflammation and its detection. Unfortunately, despite every advancement in its treatment, lung cancer patients display different growth mechanisms and continue to die at significant rates. Autophagy, which is a physiological defense mechanism, serves to meet the energy demands of nutrient-deprived cancer cells and sustain the tumor cells under stressed conditions. In contrast, autophagy is believed to play a dual role during different stages of tumorigenesis. During early stages, it acts as a tumor suppressor, degrading oncogenic proteins; however, during later stages, autophagy supports tumor cell survival by minimizing stress in the tumor microenvironment. The pivotal role of the IL6-IL17-IL23 signaling axis has been observed to trigger autophagic events in lung cancer patients. Since the obvious roles of autophagy are a result of different immune signaling cascades, systems biology can be an effective tool to understand these interconnections and enhance cancer treatment and immunotherapy. In this review, we focus on how systems biology can be exploited to target autophagic processes that resolve inflammatory responses and contribute to better treatment for carcinogenesis.
Surgical Phase Duration in Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy: A Surgical Data Science Exploration for Clinical Relevance
Authors: De Backer Pieter , Peraire Lores Maria , Demuynck Meret , Piramide Federico , Simoens Jente , Oosterlinck Tim , Bogaert Wouter , Shan Chi Victor , Van Regemorter Karel , Wastyn Aube , Checcucci Enrico , Debbaut Charlotte , Van Praet Charles , Farinha Rui , De Groote Ruben , Gallagher Anthony , Decaestecker Karel , Mottrie Alex
Published: August 2023

(1) Background: Surgical phases form the basic building blocks for surgical skill assessment, feedback and teaching. Phase duration itself and its correlation to clinical parameters has not yet been investigated. Novel commercial platforms provide phase indications but have not been assessed for accuracy yet. (2) Methods: We assess 100 robot-assisted partial nephrectomy videos for phase duration based on previously defined proficiency metrics. We develop an annotation framework and subsequently compare our annotations to an existing commercial solution (Touch Surgery, Medtronic™). We subsequently explore clinical correlations between phase durations and peri-operative parameters. (3) Results: Objective and uniform phase assessment requires precise definitions derived from an iterative revision process. Comparison to a commercial solution shows large differences in definitions across phases. BMI and duration of renal tumor identification correlate positively, as well as tumor complexity and both tumor excision and renorraphy duration. (4) Conclusions: Surgical phase duration can be correlated with certain clinical outcomes. Further research should investigate if retrieved correlations are also clinically meaningful. This requires increasing dataset sizes and facilitation through intelligent computer vision algorithms. Commercial platforms can facilitate this dataset expansion and help unlock the full potential, provided the disclosure of phase annotation details.
Community-Based Matrix Factorization (CBMF) Approach for Enhancing Quality of Recommendations
Authors: Tokala Srilatha , Enduri Murali Krishna , T Jaya Lakshmi , Sharma Hemlata
Published: August 2023

Matrix Factorization is a long established method employed for analyzing and extracting valuable insight recommendations from complex networks containing user ratings. The execution time and computational resources demanded by these algorithms pose limitations when confronted with large datasets. Community detection algorithms play a crucial role in identifying groups and communities within intricate networks. To overcome the challenge of extensive computing resources, we present a novel parallel computation framework utilizing community information available in the rating network. Our proposed approach named as Community-based Matrix Factorization(CBMF), parallelizes matrix factorization technique by dividing the network into communities using existing community detection algorithms. We prove that this parallel approach not only increases the quality of recommendations in connection with Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), but also yields substantial performance improvement. We empirically evaluate our idea on diverse datasets and present comprehensive experimental results. These results serve as empirical evidence of the effectiveness and performance gains offered by our parallel computation framework.
Alpha-Linolenic Acid and Cardiovascular Events: A Narrative Review
Authors: Bertoni Camilla , Abodi Martina , D’Oria Veronica , Milani Gregorio P. , Agostoni Carlo , Mazzocchi Alessandra
Published: August 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) represent the leading cause of global mortality with 1,7 million deaths a year. One of the alternative systems to drug therapy to minimize the risk of CVDs is represented by alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential fatty acid of the Omega-3 series, known for its cholesterol-lowering effect. The main purpose of this review is to analyze the effects of ALA and investigate the relevant n-6/n-3 ratio in order to maintain functionally beneficial effects. Concerning the lipid-lowering preventive effects, ALA may favorably affect the values of LDL-C and triglycerides in either adult and pediatric populations and it has a positive and protective effect against hypertension, suggesting that ALA is an useful diet-related antihypertensive compound. According to the 2009 EFSA statement, dietary ALA may contribute to reducing the risk of CVDs, thanks to anti-hypertensive, anti-atherosclerotic and cardio-protective effects.
Performance of Lip-sync instead of Speech Imagery, New Combination Signals, Supplement Bond Graph Classifier and Deep Formula Detection as Confidents Extraction and Roots Detection Classifier for EEG and BCI
Authors: Naebi Ahmad , Feng Zuren
Published: August 2023

Nowadays, brain signal processing is performed rapidly in various brain-computer interface (BCI) applications. Most researchers focus on developing new methods for the future or improving the basic implemented models to identify the optimum standalone feature set. Our research focuses on four ideas. One of them introduces future communication models, and the others are for improving old models or methods. These are: 1) new communication imagery model instead of speech imager using the mental task: Due to speech imagery is very difficult, and it is impossible to imagine sound for all of the characters in all of the languages. Our research introduces a new mental task model for all languages that call Lip-sync imagery. This model can use for all characters in all languages. This paper implemented two lip-sync for two sounds, characters or letters. 2) New combination Signals: Selecting an inopportune frequency domain can lead to inefficient feature extraction. Therefore, domain selection is so important for processing. This combination of limited frequency ranges proposes a preliminary for creating Fragmentary Continuous frequency. For the first model, two s intervals of 4 Hz as filter banks were examined and tested. The primary purpose is to identify the combination of filter banks with 4Hz (scale of each filter bank) from the 4Hz to 40Hz frequency domain as new combination signals (8Hz) to obtain well and efficient features using increasing distinctive patterns and decreasing similar patterns of brain activities.3) new supplement bond graph classifier for SVM classifier: When SVM linear uses in very noisy, the performance is decreased. But we introduce a new bond graph linear classifier to supplement SVM linear in noisy data. 4) a deep formula recognition model: it converts the data of the first layer into a formula model (formula extraction model). The main goal is to reduce the noise in the subsequent layers for the coefficients of the formulas. The output of the last layer is the coefficients selected by different functions in different layers. Finally, the classifier extracts the root interval of the formulas, and the diagnosis does based on the root interval. For all of the ideas achieved the results of implementing methods. The results are between 55% to 98%. Less result is 55% for the deep detection formula, and the highest result is 98% for new combination signals.
Impact of CKRT and Hemoadsorption with CytoSorb on Antimicrobials Drugs Removal in Critically Ill Children with Septic Shock: A Single Center Prospective Study in a Pediatric Cohort
Authors: Bottari Gabriella , Goffredo Bianca , Marano Marco , Maccarrone Crisitna , Simeoli Raffaele , Bianco Giuseppe , Vallesi Leonardo , Beetham Joseph Charles Charlie , Mazzeo Anna Teresa , Cappoli Andrea , Cairoli Sara , Labbadia Raffaella , Cecchetti Corrado , Bernaschi Paola , Corsetti Tiziana , Morabito Santo , Taccone Fabio Silvio , Guzzo Isabella
Published: August 2023

Background. Extracorporeal therapies (ET) are increasingly used in pediatric settings as adjuvant therapeutic strategies for overwhelming inflammatory conditions. Although these treatments seem to be effective for removing inflammatory mediators, their influence on antimicrobials pharmacokinetic should not be neglected. Methods: Prospective observational study of children admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with a diagnosis of sepsis/septic shock. All critically ill children received hemoadsorption treatment with Cytosorb (CS) in combination with CKRT. Therapeutic drug monitoring has been performed in 10 critically ill children, testing four antimicrobial molecules: meropenem, ceftazidime, amikacin and levofloxacin . In order to evaluate the total and the isolated CKRT and CS contribution to antibiotics removal, blood samples at each circuit point (post-hemofilter, post-CS and in the effluent line) were performed. Therefore Clearance and Mass Removal (MR) of hemofilter and CS were calculated. Results. Our preliminary report describes a different impact of CS on these target drugs removal: CS clearance resulted low for amikacine (6-12%), moderate for ceftazidime (43%) and moderate to high for levofloxacine (52-72%). Higher MR and clearance were observed with CKRT compared to CS. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report regarding pharmacokinetic dynamics in critically ill children treated with CKRT and CS for septic shock.