bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Service Recovery in Post-purchase Consumer Behavior During COVID-19: A Malaysian Perspective
Authors: Mazhar Muhammad , Ting Ding Hooi , Hussain Ali , Nadeem Muhammad Aamir , Ali Muhammad Asghar , Tariq Umaima
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study is to investigate the incidence of service failure in rendering service process during COVID-19. It further explores the outcomes of service recovery offered to customers in case of service failure. Like other businesses, webstores have also faced the challenges in their efforts to satisfy their customers during COVID-19. Service failure has increased due to unexpected circumstances produced by this pandemic. It has become necessary for the webstores to retain their dissatisfied customers by reconsidering their service strategies. Relevant data for the purpose of this study were collected through questionnaires from 383 respondents by using online channels. The online channels were exclusively employed for maintaining the safety of respondents during COVID-19. Respondents for this study were online shoppers who encountered service failure during COVID-19. The results indicated that the incidence of service failure has increased due to an increase in online shopping during COVID-19. Some customers tend to repurchase from the same webstore. On the other hand, some customers do not want to purchase again from the same seller and decided to switch to the alternative webstore. Based on the findings, new strategy for online shopping service providers was introduced. This strategy will be helpful for the online service providers to increase their profitability by retaining their dissatisfied customers. Service providers can minimize the number of customers switching to other webstores by reducing the events of service failure. Customer’s assistive intent can also be helpful for service providers to increase the efficiency of service recovery. Conducting a proper follow-up after providing service recovery can also reduce the switching of customer. It will be helpful for service providers to understand the customers’ expectations before recovery process and their feeling after getting service recovery.
Moral Foundations Predict Perceptions of Moral Permissibility of COVID-19 Public Health Guideline Violations in United States University Students
Authors: Bruchmann Kathryn , LaPierre Liya
Published: February 2022

In the United States, the COVID-19 pandemic has become highly politicized and highly moralized. The current study explored whether participants’ (N = 118) endorsements of binding (promoting group cohesion) versus individualizing (promoting care for individuals) moral foundations explained partisan differences in views and behaviors regarding COVID-19. Participants completed the Moral Foundations Questionnaire before they indicated how morally permissible they thought it was to violate COVID-19 mandates, report others’ violations, or not get vaccinated. Additionally, they indicated their own prevention behaviors. Results show that endorsement of both individualizing and binding foundations explain partisan differences in moral permissibility ratings. Political conservatism predicted greater endorsement of binding foundations which in turn predicted seeing COVID-19 violations and not getting vaccinated as more morally permissible, and predicted fewer self-reported prevention behaviors. Endorsement of individualizing foundations predicted seeing violations as less morally permissible and reporting others’ violations as more morally permissible.
Trickle-Down Effects of Entrepreneurial Bricolage and Business Model Innovation on Employee Creativity: Evidence From Entrepreneurial Internet Firms in China
Authors: Hou Fei , Qi Ming-De , Su Yu , Tan Xiu-Xia , Yang Bin-Xin
Published: February 2022

Although most existing studies have considered entrepreneurial bricolage as a means to overcome resource constraints in new ventures, few have explored the direct effects of entrepreneurial bricolage on employee creativity, particularly in the context of entrepreneurial internet firms. Drawing from multiple theories (i.e., social learning theory and social cognitive theory), this study proposes a cross-level mediation model for the trickle-down effects of entrepreneurial bricolage and business model innovation on employee creativity. By using a 2-wave longitudinal design, survey data were collected from multiple sources, including 49 leaders and 336 employees from entrepreneurial internet firms in China. Multilevel structural equation modeling (MSEM) was applied to analyze the cross-level mediation model. The results show that both entrepreneurial bricolage and business model innovation failed to significantly and positively direct employee creativity. Furthermore, entrepreneurial bricolage exerted a cross-level influence on employee creativity that was sequentially transmitted through between-level business model innovation and within-level creative self-efficacy. The theoretical and managerial implications of these findings are also discussed.
Implicit Mentalizing in Patients With Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Csulak Timea , Hajnal András , Kiss Szabolcs , Dembrovszky Fanni , Varjú-Solymár Margit , Sipos Zoltán , Kovács Márton Aron , Herold Márton , Varga Eszter , Hegyi Péter , Tényi Tamás , Herold Róbert
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Mentalizing is a key aspect of social cognition. Several researchers assume that mentalization has two systems, an explicit one (conscious, relatively slow, flexible, verbal, inferential) and an implicit one (unconscious, automatic, fast, non-verbal, intuitive). In schizophrenia, several studies have confirmed the deficit of explicit mentalizing, but little data are available on non-explicit mentalizing. However, increasing research activity can be detected recently in implicit mentalizing. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to summarize the existing results of implicit mentalizing in schizophrenia

Methods

A systematic search was performed in four major databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Web of Science. Eleven publications were selected. Five studies were found to be eligible for quantitative synthesis, and 9 studies were included in qualitative synthesis.

Results

The meta-analysis revealed significantly lower accuracy, slower reaction time during implicit mentalizing in patients with schizophrenia. The systematic review found different brain activation pattern, further alterations in visual scanning, cue fixation, face looking time, and difficulties in perspective taking.

Discussion

Overall, in addition to the deficit of explicit mentalization, implicit mentalization performance is also affected in schizophrenia, if not to the same extent. It seems likely that some elements of implicit mentalization might be relatively unaffected (e.g., detection of intentionality), but the effectiveness is limited by certain neurocognitive deficits. These alterations in implicit mentalizing can also have potential therapeutic consequences.

Systematic Review Registration:https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42021231312.
Spanish Validation of the Multidimensional Existential Meaning Scale: Which Dimension of Meaning in Life Is More Associated With Psychopathology in People With Mental Disorders?
Authors: Marco Jose Heliodoro , García-Alandete Joaquín , Pérez Rodríguez Sandra , Guillén Verónica , Baños Rosa M. , Tormo-Irun Maria Pilar
Published: February 2022

Background

To assess three dimensions of Meaning in Life (comprehension, purpose, and mattering) the Multidimensional Existential Meaning Scale (MEMS) was developed, however, the MEMS's factorial structure has not yet been confirmed in a Spanish-speaking sample. A question that remains unanswered is which of the three dimensions of MiL are associated with psychopathology in clinical samples.

Aims

(1) to analyze the psychometric properties of the MEMS in a Spanish non-clinical population, and (2) to identify which of the three dimensions of MiL shows the strongest relationship with depression, anxiety and positive affect in a clinical population.

Method

The non-clinical sample, consisted of N = 1106 Spanish adults, and the clinical sample consisted of 88 adults diagnosed with mental disorders. A Confirmatory Factor Analysis and regression analysis were carried out.

Results

The three-factor model for the MEMS showed an acceptable fit, and full invariance across gender groups. In the clinical sample, the mattering dimension had the highest association with depression and anxiety, and purpose with positive affect.

Conclusion

The MEMS is an adequate instrument to assess the three dimensions of meaning in Spanish-speaking participants. These results support the importance of evaluating the MiL construct from a multidimensional perspective in clinical samples.
COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia: An Overview
Authors: Salam Asharaf Abdul , Al-Khraif Rshood M. , Elsegaey Ibrahim
Published: February 2022

Background

Saudi Arabia, a prominent Arabian country, has 35. 3 million persons living in 2.2 million square kilometers, undergone serious threats recently due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With the built-in infrastructure and disciplined lifestyle, the country could address this pandemic.

Aims

This analysis of COVID-19 cases in Saudi Arabia attempts to assess the situation, explore its global percentage share, percentage of population affected, and local distribution from the beginning of infection until recently, tracing historical developments and changes.

Data and Methods

This analysis made use of data released by the Ministry of Health on a daily basis for a number of parameters. They are compiled on an excel sheet on a daily basis: the dataset has undergone rigorous analysis along with the trends and patterns; proportion to the world statistics and geographic distribution.

Results

COVID-19 spread rapidly in the country with periodic variations, during June-August, 2020. But, recoveries accelerated in the period, thus bridging the gap of increasing infections. In comparison with the world statistics, the country proportions are lower, while the percentage of population affected is similar. It appears that the intensity varied across all 13 administrative areas.

Conclusion

COVID-19 transmission since March 2020 is considered to be widespread, creating excess burden on the public health system, delineated into stages (early infection, rapid spread, declining, stabilizing, and second wave). Control measures are set, stage-wise, without impinging upon normal life but to ensure that the proportion of globally affected persons is lesser than the population share: credit goes to the Ministry of Health. Area-wise spread depends largely on population density and development infrastructure dimensions. Ultimately, the disciplined life in compliance with law and order paved the way for effective program implementation and epidemic control.
Transition and Sustainability of an Online Care Model for People With Parkinson's Disease in Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ketigian Laura , Piniella Nicholas , McGivney Kaylie , Lui Samantha , Dukat Austin , Jung Min-Kyung , Gallagher Rosemary , Leder Adena
Published: February 2022

Introduction

CoronaVirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) led to social distancing and the need for alternative care models. Telehealth programs for people with Parkinson's (PWP) disease may ensure continuity of care. The goal of this observational survey study was to determine the practicability, satisfaction, and barriers to online programs, their relationship to perceived symptoms, mood, and quality of life, and program sustainability beyond the immediate pandemic.

Methods

In-person Parkinson's programs at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine transitioned online at the start of the pandemic to include Rock Steady Boxing, Support Groups, and Rock Steady Buddies. A custom online survey sent to 150 participants investigated PD history, symptomatology, level of exercise before and during the pandemic, depression (PHQ-9), quality of life (PDQ-39), and practicability and perceived satisfaction related to these online programs. Descriptive statistics were reported.

Results

Of 69 respondents [mean age of 70.2y (SD 8.4 yrs)], >75% were satisfied with the transition to online programs. Consistent attendance and minimal barriers to programs indicated practicability, with increased adherence to exercise. Of 66 completed PHQ-9s, 22.7% had scores ≥9 (moderate to severe depression); of 61 completed PDQ-39s, scores averaged 21.4; better quality of life than national averages for PWP. Self-perceived physical and mental wellbeing were positively affected.

Conclusions

Results suggest the transition to online programs met the needs of the Parkinson's community in a practicable and sustainable manner during the pandemic. With COVID-19 still prevalent, the current model of blending synchronous online and in-person classes provides a more flexible, sustainable format compared to in-person alone. Institutions may consider including online components to existing programs to promote continuity of care for aging populations as part of best practices.
Investigating the Adoption of Precautionary Behaviors Among Young Rural Adults in South Iran During COVID-19
Authors: Tajeri Moghadam Maryam , Zobeidi Tahereh , Sieber Stefan , Löhr Katharina
Published: February 2022

COVID-19 is an unprecedented challenge for public health worldwide. Reducing the incidence of the disease requires protective measures to prevent virus transmission. Understanding those factors influencing preventive behavior is the first step in preventing the spread of the disease. This study investigates factors affecting youth intention and preventive behaviors in the face of COVID-19 through the health belief model by using a cross-sectional survey collected through an online questionnaire. The sample comprises 304 rural youth in South Iran who were selected through a random sampling technique. The results reveal that perceived severity, perceived benefits, public health beliefs, perceived self-efficacy, and the cue to act positively and significantly affect preventive behaviors. The model explains 59% of variance changes in rural youth preventive behaviors during COVID-19. Cue to action is the strongest and self-efficacy was the weakest determinant of youth's preventive behavior. This study confirms that the HBM framework has appropriate predictive power and is an effective tool for investigating preventive behaviors during COVID-19. These results provide important policy implications for the development of policies that aim to avoid the further spread of COVID-19 between young citizens.
Sex Differences in Cardiovascular Risk Associated With Long-Term PM2.5 Exposure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies
Authors: Zhang Jia , Wang Xinyan , Yan Mengfan , Shan Anqi , Wang Chao , Yang Xueli , Tang Naijun
Published: February 2022

Background

Established evidence suggests risks of developing cardiovascular disease are different by sex. However, it remains unclear whether associations of PM2.5 with cardiovascular risk are comparable between women and men. The meta-analysis aimed to examine sex differences in associations of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke with long-term PM2.5 exposure.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library were searched until May 2, 2021. We included cohort studies reporting sex-specific associations of long-term PM2.5 exposure (e.g., ≥1 year) with IHD and stroke. The primary analysis was to estimate relative risk (RR) of PM2.5-outcome in women and men separately, and the additional women-to-men ratio of RR (RRR) was explored to compare sex differences, using random-effect models.

Results

We identified 25 eligible studies with 3.6 million IHD and 1.3 million stroke cases among 63.7 million participants. A higher level of PM2.5 exposure was significantly associated with increased risk of IHD in both women (RR = 1.21; 95% CI, 1.15–1.27) and men (RR = 1.12; 95% CI, 1.07–1.17). The women-to-men RRR of IHD was 1.05 (95% CI, 1.02–1.08) per 10 μg/m3 increment in PM2.5 exposure, indicating significant excess risk of IHD in women. The significant risks of stroke associated with PM2.5 were obtained in both women (RR = 1.11; 95% CI, 1.08–1.13) and men (RR = 1.11; 95% CI, 1.07–1.14), but no significant women-to-men RRR was observed in stroke (RRR = 1.00; 95% CI, 0.96–1.04).

Conclusions

The study identified excess risk of IHD associated with long-term PM2.5 exposure in women. The findings would not only have repercussions on efforts to precisely evaluate the burden of IHD attributable to PM2.5, but would also provide novel clues for cardiovascular risk prevention accounting for sex-based differences.
Differences in Knowledge, Awareness, Practice, and Health Symptoms in Farmers Who Applied Organophosphates and Pyrethroids on Farms
Authors: Thammachai Ajchamon , Sapbamrer Ratana , Rohitrattana Juthasiri , Tongprasert Siam , Hongsibsong Surat , Wangsan Kampanat
Published: February 2022

Objective

This cross-sectional study aimed to examine farmers' knowledge, awareness, practices regarding pesticide use, and prevalence of health symptoms related to pesticides exposure among farmers who applied organophosphates (OP) and pyrethroids (PY).

Methods

Data regarding demographic variables and health symptoms pertinent to pesticide use was collected from 67 farmers who applied OP and 50 farmers who applied PY using interviews from January to March 2021.

Results

The farmers who applied OP had lower knowledge, awareness, and prevention practices regarding pesticide use than those who applied PY. After adjustment of covariate variables, the farmers who applied OP had a significantly higher prevalence of respiratory conditions (OR = 8.29 for chest pain, OR = 6.98 for chest tightness, OR = 27.54 for dry throat, and OR = 5.91 for cough), neurological symptoms (OR = 10.62 for fatigue and OR = 6.76 for paresthesia), and neurobehavioral symptoms (OR = 13.84 for poor concentration, OR = 3.75 for short term memory, and OR = 8.99 for insomnia) related to pesticide exposure than those who applied PY.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that OP had a more adverse effect on human health than PY, resulting in a higher prevalence of pesticide-related symptoms. The outcomes of this study have the benefit of providing vital information for all stakeholders with regard to the implementation of safe practices in the utilization of personal protective equipment (PPE) and pesticide use in a health intervention and health promotion program.
Considerations for Meeting Students' Mental Health Needs at a U.S. University During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Kaur Jessalyn , Chow Eva , Ravenhurst Johanna , Snyder Teah , Pennell Sheila , Lover Andrew A. , Goff Sarah L.
Published: February 2022

Objective

To better understand the potential ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on U.S. university students' mental health and to generate hypotheses as to how universities may best meet students' mental health needs.

Participants

Students at a large public university in the United States.

Methods

Students were invited via email to participate in either interviews or focus groups regarding their COVID-19 pandemic experiences, including mental health impacts. Recruitment took place in two waves. Sessions were led by student members of the research team and took place via video conference between December 2020 and June 2021. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed via Zoom and manually edited and de-identified by the research team. Interview data were analyzed deductively and inductively using a modified grounded theory approach.

Results

A total of 40 undergraduate and graduate students took part in the study. Major themes included: (1) Overall impact of the pandemic on mental health; (2) Sources of pandemic stress/mental health impacts; (3) Subsequent coping strategies; and (4) Suggestions for improving university support for student mental health. Subthemes were identified within each major theme. Students reported substantial anxiety and other mental health impacts and felt improvements in communication and access to mental health resources could better support students.

Conclusions

This study provides context for the ways in which the COVID-19 pandemic may be continuing to impact mental health in a north-American university setting and identifies suggestions for potential interventions that future studies may test for effectiveness.
Kinematic-Model-Free Predictive Control for Robotic Manipulator Target Reaching With Obstacle Avoidance
Authors: AlAttar Ahmad , Chappell Digby , Kormushev Petar
Published: February 2022

Model predictive control is a widely used optimal control method for robot path planning and obstacle avoidance. This control method, however, requires a system model to optimize control over a finite time horizon and possible trajectories. Certain types of robots, such as soft robots, continuum robots, and transforming robots, can be challenging to model, especially in unstructured or unknown environments. Kinematic-model-free control can overcome these challenges by learning local linear models online. This paper presents a novel perception-based robot motion controller, the kinematic-model-free predictive controller, that is capable of controlling robot manipulators without any prior knowledge of the robot’s kinematic structure and dynamic parameters and is able to perform end-effector obstacle avoidance. Simulations and physical experiments were conducted to demonstrate the ability and adaptability of the controller to perform simultaneous target reaching and obstacle avoidance.
The Effects of the Socialization of Physical Education Teachers on Their Modes of Interaction With Students in Tunisian Schools
Authors: Nasri Bechir , Kadri Abdelmotaleb , Souissi Nizar , Rouissi Mourad
Published: February 2022

This article uses an interactionist perspective to address the socialization of physical education teachers in a teaching setting in Tunisia. The two main objectives of the study are to present the social characteristics of the population studied, draw general conclusions about the social origins of the Tunisian teachers of physical education and sport, and to identify the link between socialization and the pedagogical practice of physical education teachers in Tunisian schools. My colleagues and I collected data through participant observations and in-depth interviews with a representative sample of teachers. The results show that the socio-cultural origin, the type of training and the generational effect of physical education teachers in a teaching setting in Tunisian schools influence pedagogical behavior.
Increasing Diversity in Developmental Biology
Authors: Unguez Graciela A. , Bennett Karen L. , Domingo Carmen , Chow Ida
Published: February 2022

The demographic profile of the scientific and biomedical workforce in the United States does not reflect the population at large (https://ncses.nsf.gov/pubs/nsf21321/data-tables; www.census.gov), raising concerns that there will be too few trained researchers in the future, the scope of research interests will not be broad enough, gaps in equity and social justice will continue to increase, and the safeguards to the integrity of the scientific enterprise could be jeopardized. To diversify the pool of scientists, the Society for Developmental Biology (SDB) developed the Choose Development! Program—a two-summer immersion for undergraduate students belonging to underrepresented (UR) populations in STEM to join the research laboratory of an established SDB member. This research-intensive experience was augmented by a multi-tier mentoring plan for each student, society-wide recognition, professional development activities and networking at national meetings. The strengths of the Choose Development! Program were leveraged to expand inclusion and outreach at the Society’s leadership level, the Board of Directors (BOD), which then led to significant changes that impacted the SDB community. The cumulative outcomes of the Choose Development! Program provides evidence that community-based, long-term advocacy, and mentoring of young UR scientists is successful in retaining UR students in scientific career paths and making a scientific society more inclusive.
Astrochemistry With the Orbiting Astronomical Satellite for Investigating Stellar Systems
Authors: Bergner Jennifer B. , Shirley Yancy L. , Jørgensen Jes K. , McGuire Brett , Aalto Susanne , Anderson Carrie M. , Chin Gordon , Gerin Maryvonne , Hartogh Paul , Kim Daewook , Leisawitz David , Najita Joan , Schwarz Kamber R. , Tielens Alexander G. G. M. , Walker Christopher K. , Wilner David J. , Wollack Edward J.
Published: February 2022

Chemistry along the star- and planet-formation sequence regulates how prebiotic building blocks—carriers of the elements CHNOPS—are incorporated into nascent planetesimals and planets. Spectral line observations across the electromagnetic spectrum are needed to fully characterize interstellar CHNOPS chemistry, yet to date there are only limited astrochemical constraints at THz frequencies. Here, we highlight advances to the study of CHNOPS astrochemistry that will be possible with the Orbiting Astronomical Satellite for Investigating Stellar Systems (OASIS). OASIS is a NASA mission concept for a space-based observatory that will utilize an inflatable 14-m reflector along with a heterodyne receiver system to observe at THz frequencies with unprecedented sensitivity and angular resolution. As part of a survey of H2O and HD toward ∼100 protostellar and protoplanetary disk systems, OASIS will also obtain statistical constraints on the emission of complex organics from protostellar hot corinos and envelopes as well as light hydrides including NH3 and H2S toward protoplanetary disks. Line surveys of high-mass hot cores, protostellar outflow shocks, and prestellar cores will also leverage the unique capabilities of OASIS to probe high-excitation organics and small hydrides, as is needed to fully understand the chemistry of these objects.
Rotational Rest Frequencies and First Astronomical Search of Protonated Methylamine
Authors: Schmid Philipp C. , Thorwirth Sven , Endres Christian P. , Töpfer Matthias , Sánchez-Monge Álvaro , Schwörer Andreas , Schilke Peter , Schlemmer Stephan , Asvany Oskar
Published: February 2022

We report first laboratory rest frequencies for rotational transitions of protonated methylamine, CH3NH3+, measured in a cryogenic 22-pole ion trap machine and employing an action spectroscopy scheme. For this prolate symmetric top molecule thirteen transitions between 80 and 240 GHz were detected in the ground vibrational state, covering JK = 2K − 1K up to JK = 6K − 5K with K = 0, 1, 2. Some transitions exhibit noticeable structure that is attributed to internal rotation splitting. As the CN radical and several of its hydrogenated and protonated forms up to methylamine, CH3NH2, are well known entities in the laboratory and in space, protonated methylamine, CH3NH3+, is a promising candidate for future radio astronomical detection.
Pitch-Angle Diffusion in the Earth’s Magnetosphere Organized by the Mozer-Transformed Coordinate System
Authors: Borovsky Joseph E. , Delzanno Gian Luca , Yakymenko Kateryna N.
Published: February 2022

In the Earth’s dipole magnetosphere finite-gyroradius effects produce a shift of the atmospheric loss cone away from the direction of the magnetic field. This loss-cone shift is theoretically described by the “Mozer transform” [Mozer, F. S. (1966). Proton trajectories in the radiation belt. J. Geophys. Res. 71:2701], which is based upon the curvature drift of particles crossing the equatorial plane. For positive ions the northern and southern loss cones both shift westward and for electrons the northern and southern loss cones both shift eastward. This loss-cone shift is part of a coordinate-system transform, with the transformed coordinates better organizing the behavior of particle orbits in the dipole magnetic field (e.g. first adiabatic invariants, mirror heights, and bounce times). In this report it is demonstrated that the transformed coordinate system also properly organizes pitch-angle diffusion. This improved organization of the diffusion is true whether the angular scattering is produced by plasma-wave scattering or by field-line-curvature (FLC) scattering. It is shown that FLC scattering and the loss cone shift are linked, so that if FLC scattering is occurring, there is a loss cone shifted away from the magnetic-field direction and the Mozer-transformed coordinates are needed.
Is the Peripheral Zone Thickness an Indicator of a Learning Curve in Bipolar Transurethral Plasma Enucleation of the Prostate?—A Single Center Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Qihua , Alshayyah Rami , He Yi , Wen Lijie , Yu Yang , Yang Bo
Published: February 2022

Background

We conducted this cohort study to assess the differences in the learning curve of bipolar transurethral plasma enucleation of the prostate (B-TUEP) associated with prostatic peripheral zone thickness (PZT) under MRI quantitative measurements.

Methods

For the study, 60 patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were involved. PZT are defined as “Thin” (<7 mm), “Thick” (>10 mm), and “Medium” (in between), with 20 patients in each group. Learning stages were defined as Group 1 (No. 1–20), Group 2 (No. 21–40), and Group 3 (No. 41–60). We measured parameters of the prostate, such as PZT and transitional zone thickness (TZT), with MRI. A learner with no experience in enucleation performed the operations. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the differences. Pearson correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis evaluated the relationship between characteristics of patients. P < 0.05 was deemed statistically significant.

Results

One-Way ANOVA revealed different enucleation efficiency (0.811 ± 0.18 vs. 0.748 ± 0.14 vs. 0.634 ± 0.16), prostate volume (58.9 ± 15.33 vs. 57.3 ± 15.58 vs. 46.6 ± 14.10), and thickness of transition zone (44.45 ± 7.60 vs. 42.45 ± 6.08 vs. 34.78 ± 6.04) among Thin, Medium, and Thick groups. The enucleation efficiency is different between groups divided by learning stages (Group 1 vs. Group 3, 0.658 vs. 0.783; Group 2 vs. Group 3, 0.751 vs. 0.783). Pearson correlation analysis reveals that PZT was negatively correlated with prostate volume (r = −0.427), resection weight (r = −0.35), enucleation efficiency (r = −0.445), and TZT (r = −0.533), and was positively correlated with Q-max (r = 0.301) and bladder outlet obstruction index (BOOI) (r = 0.388). The regression coefficients of PZT, TZT, prostate volume, and Q-max were −0.012, 0.008, 0.007, and 0.013, respectively (all P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Lower PZT is independent of higher enucleation efficiency, larger adenoma, and higher TZT. PZT may be an important factor on the learning curve of B-TUEP. Higher TZT, prostate volume. and Q-max may also relate to higher enucleation efficiency. For B-TUEP learners, it seems easier to perform the operation when the PZT is low, though more care should be taken with the capsule perforation. Further, the capsule plane should be maintained more attentively if the PZT is high.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma Complicated by Echinococcal Cyst: A Case Report
Authors: Guo Jiwu , Ma Chenzhe , Song Xuewen , Tang Futian , Guo Lingyun , Mao Jie , Li Yumin
Published: February 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), combined with hepatic hydatid disease, is a rare clinical case, having certain specificity in clinical diagnosis and treatment. We report a case of HCC combined with hepatic hydatid disease treated in our clinic to arouse the attention of clinicians to the disease. A 54-year-old female patient was admitted to the clinic on October 31, 2016 because of “Intermittent upper abdominal pain and discomfort for 1 month.” Abdominal CT in the previous hospital showed liver space-occupying lesions, and hepatic hydatid disease should be considered. The patient had a history of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection since childhood but has not received antiviral treatment. She did have a history of life in pastoral areas. Laboratory examination results were as follows: alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) 1,210 ng/ml, HBV DNA: 5.32E + 3 IU/ml. Casoni test was positive. Enhanced CT of abdomen suggestion was: malignant liver tumor, hepatic hydatid disease. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy showed no abnormalities. She underwent an operation on November 10, 2016. Segment 5, 8 of hepatic, echinococcus internal capsule, and cholecyst were all removed. She took albendazole (0.4 g/day) for 6 months and oral entecavir (0.5 mg/day) antiviral treatment for a long time after surgery. From May 2017 to October 2019, a total of 5 cycles of transarterial chemotherapy embolization (TACE) were performed. The patient underwent surgical treatment, followed by TACE, antiviral therapy, and sequential albendazole treatment. The AFP level increased significantly, but there was no obvious recurrence of HCC in imaging.
Case Report: Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma in the Wall of a Thymic Cyst
Authors: Agrafiotis Apostolos C. , Paralikas Ioannis , Giakoumakis Kanellos , Moraitis Sotirios D.
Published: February 2022

Thymic cysts are rare lesions (1–5% of all mediastinal masses) and, most of the times, are incidental findings. The coexistence of a lymphoma and a thymic cyst is rare. In the case reported herein, microscopic foci of a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma were identified in the wall of a resected thymic cyst. This case report adds to the current knowledge of this rare entity and highlights the necessity of early surgical resection of mediastinal cysts over watchful waiting.
Penthorum Chinense Pursh Extract Alleviates Aflatoxin B1-Induced Liver Injury and Oxidative Stress Through Mitochondrial Pathways in Broilers
Authors: Nabi Fazul , Tao Weilai , Ye Ruiling , Li Zhenzhen , Lu Qin , Shang Yangfei , Hu Yu , Fang Jiali , Bhutto Zohaib Ahmed , Liu Juan
Published: February 2022

Aflatoxin is an important toxicant of the fungal origin and poses a threat to the poultry industry. This study was designed to reveal the underlying mechanism and protective methods against aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)-induced liver injury, oxidative stress, and apoptosis using a Traditional Chinese medicine, Penthorum chinense Pursh extract (PCPE), in broilers. A total of 164 (day-old) broilers were equally allocated to the control, AFB1 (3 mg/kg feed), positive drug (Yin-Chen-Hao Tang extract, 10 ml/kg feed), PCPE (2 g PCPE/kg), and PCPE low, medium, and high dose groups (1 g, 2 g, 3 g PCPE/kg feed, respectively). AFB1 significantly decreased the growth performance and serum immunoglobulin level, altered normal serum biochemical parameters and antioxidant activities, and induced histopathological lesions in the liver as compared to control group. Additionally, AFB1 significantly up-regulated the mRNA expression levels of apoptosis-related genes such as Bax, Bak, caspase-9, caspase-3, and p53, whereas it down-regulated the expression levels of BCL2 in the liver of broilers. The supplementation of different doses of PCPE to AFB1-affected birds significantly eased AFB1 negative effects by improving growth performance, immunoglobulin level, and oxidative capacity, and reversed oxidative stress and pathological lesions in liver. Furthermore, supplementation of PCPE to the AFB1 group reversed apoptosis by significantly down-regulating the mRNA expression levels of Bax, Bak, caspase-9, caspase-3, and p53 and up-regulating the expression levels of BCL2 in the liver of broilers. Based on these results, we conclude that supplementation of PCPE is protective and safe against oxidative stress, is anti-apoptotic, and reverses the liver damage caused by AFB1 in broilers.
Application of the Half-Order Derivative to Impedance Control of the 3-PUU Parallel Robot
Authors: Bruzzone Luca , Fanghella Pietro , Basso Davide
Published: February 2022

This paper presents an extension of impedance control of robots based on fractional calculus. In classical impedance control, the end-effector reactions are proportional to the end-effector position errors through the stiffness matrix K, while damping is proportional to the first-order time-derivative of the end-effector coordinate errors through the damping matrix D. In the proposed approach, a half-derivative damping is added, proportional to the half-order time-derivative of the end-effector coordinate errors through the half-derivative damping matrix HD. The discrete-time digital implementation of the half-order derivative alters the steady-state behavior, in which only the stiffness term should be present. Consequently, a compensation method is proposed, and its effectiveness is validated by multibody simulation on a 3-PUU parallel robot. The proposed approach can be considered the extension to MIMO robotic systems of the PDD1/2 control scheme for SISO mechatronic systems, with potential benefits in the transient response performance.
Influence of the Rootstock and the Ploidy Level of the Scion and the Rootstock on Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) Peel Essential Oil Yield, Composition and Aromatic Properties
Authors: Ferrer Vincent , Paymal Noémie , Quinton Carole , Costantino Gilles , Paoli Mathieu , Froelicher Yann , Ollitrault Patrick , Tomi Félix , Luro François
Published: February 2022

Rootstock is widely used for the cultivation of citrus fruits because it brings resistance or tolerance to diseases or environmental constrains and modulates the fruit quality. Polyploidization is a widespread improvement strategy in citrus. The objective was to evaluate the effect of rootstock and ploidy level on the composition of essential oils. Two trials were conducted, one displaying a ‘Navelina’ orange grafted on three rootstocks and a second combining two ploidy levels (di and tetraploid) of scion (‘Pineapple’ orange) and rootstock (‘Carrizo’ citrange). The composition of peel essential oil (PEO) was analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry, and a panel of experts analyzed its flavor variation with a triangle test approach. The rootstock influenced the yield and composition of the orange PEO, with a low impact on flavor. Neither the rootstock nor the scion ploidy level affected the PEO yield. Only the tetraploid level of the scion significantly modified the PEO composition, reducing the oxygenated compound fraction. Sensitive significant differences were detected between the reference sample (diploid scion–diploid rootstock) and the three other combinations. These results suggest that for the profiling of an aromatic flavor, the rootstock is a key element as is the ploidy level of the scion.
Impact of Rotational Sequence Selection on Weed Seedbank Composition in Australian Broadacre Crops
Authors: Gurusinghe Saliya , Haque K. M. Shamsul , Weston Paul A. , Brown William B. , Weston Leslie A.
Published: February 2022

The use of competitive crops in successional rotations has been shown to reduce the growth and establishment of annual weeds by the depletion of the weed seedbank in broadacre cropping systems. However, the impact of specific crop rotational sequences contributing to weed seedbank density has not been quantified in the Riverina region of southern Australia. Trials were established in two locations in 2014–2018 to quantify the impact of selected annual rotations featuring grain, pulse, and pasture crops on weed infestation and seedbank dynamics with a focus on winter and summer annual weeds. The weed seedbank dynamics were evaluated by a twice-annual soil sampling regime (at planting and harvest), followed by soil sample screening for weed propagule germination and seedling establishment in a subsequent controlled-environment screening performed from 2014–2020. The weed seedling density decreased in the cereal rotations in years experiencing average to above-average rainfall, as crops established a dense canopy leading to reduced weed establishment and fecundity. Several rotational treatments were effective in suppressing the weed propagule numbers over time, including those using dual-purpose cereals only or a canola break-crop along with the cereals. Rotational selection can be an important and cost-effective tool in integrated weed management systems when applied over multiple growing seasons.
Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus Inoculation of Two Lettuce Cultivars Affects Leaf and Root Growth under Hydroponic Conditions
Authors: Sebring Ryan L. , Duiker Sjoerd W. , Berghage Robert D. , Regan John M. , Lambert Joshua D. , Bryant Ray B.
Published: February 2022

The growth-promoting effects of Gluconacetobacter diazotrophicus inoculation on the leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) cultivars “Black Seeded Simpson” and “Bibb/Limestone” were investigated. Plants of each cultivar were grown hydroponically in Kratky jars in a growth chamber-controlled environment in a completely randomized factorial design with three or four replications. Each experiment was repeated once. Factors were (1) with or without inoculant and (2) seven levels of nitrogen (N) fertilization ranging from deficient (37.5 mg L−1 N) to excessive (172.5 mg L−1 N). The shoot, root, and total biomass accumulation, nitrogen density, and carbon/nitrogen (C/N) ratios were measured for each variety. Black Seeded Simpson demonstrated a shifting of production towards aerial tissues, with significantly greater shoot production and reduced root production. The observed increase in shoot biomass was greatest at the slightly deficient N rate of 105 mg L−1 N where inoculated plants produced 14.8% more than uninoculated plants. Lower N density and higher C/N ratios in inoculated shoot tissues indicate greater N use efficiency. Bibb/Limestone responded to inoculation with an average increase of 10.9% in shoot production and with greater root biomass. Bibb/Limestone also exhibited lower N density in inoculated shoot tissues with a corresponding increase in the C/N ratio. For growers looking to maximize lettuce yields, G. diaz inoculation may present a beneficial additive to the growing system by increasing leaf yields while not increasing N fertilizer requirements.
Civil Infrastructure Damage and Corrosion Detection: An Application of Machine Learning
Authors: Munawar Hafiz , Ullah Fahim , Shahzad Danish , Heravi Amirhossein , Qayyum Siddra , Akram Junaid
Published: February 2022

Automatic detection of corrosion and associated damages to civil infrastructures such as bridges, buildings, and roads, from aerial images captured by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), helps one to overcome the challenges and shortcomings (objectivity and reliability) associated with the manual inspection methods. Deep learning methods have been widely reported in the literature for civil infrastructure corrosion detection. Among them, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) display promising applicability for the automatic detection of image features less affected by image noises. Therefore, in the current study, we propose a modified version of deep hierarchical CNN architecture, based on 16 convolution layers and cycle generative adversarial network (CycleGAN), to predict pixel-wise segmentation in an end-to-end manner using the images of Bolte Bridge and sky rail areas in Victoria (Melbourne). The convolutedly designed model network proposed in the study is based on learning and aggregation of multi-scale and multilevel features while moving from the low convolutional layers to the high-level layers, thus reducing the consistency loss in images due to the inclusion of CycleGAN. The standard approaches only use the last convolutional layer, but our proposed architecture differs from these approaches and uses multiple layers. Moreover, we have used guided filtering and Conditional Random Fields (CRFs) methods to refine the prediction results. Additionally, the effectiveness of the proposed architecture was assessed using benchmarking data of 600 images of civil infrastructure. Overall, the results show that the deep hierarchical CNN architecture based on 16 convolution layers produced advanced performances when evaluated for different methods, including the baseline, PSPNet, DeepLab, and SegNet. Overall, the extended method displayed the Global Accuracy (GA); Class Average Accuracy (CAC); mean Intersection Of the Union (IOU); Precision (P); Recall (R); and F-score values of 0.989, 0.931, 0.878, 0.849, 0.818 and 0.833, respectively.
Sociocognitive Functioning and Psychosocial Burden in Patients with Brain Tumors
Authors: Pertz Milena , Schlegel Uwe , Thoma Patrizia
Published: February 2022

Brain tumors may represent devastating diseases and neuro-oncological research in the past solely focused on development of better treatments to achieve disease control. The efficacy of tumor-directed treatment was evaluated by progression-free and overall survival. However, as neuro-oncological treatment became more effective, preservation and improvement of quality of life (QoL) was noticed to represent an important additional outcome measure. The need to balance between aggressive tumor-directed treatment and preservation of QoL was increasingly acknowledged in brain tumor patients. QoL is comprised by many determinants; one of those may have been rather neglected so far: social cognition. Since diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors represent demanding life situations, patients may experience increased psychosocial burden and the negative consequences of illness on well-being may be buffered by intact social relationships. These skills to build and maintain supportive social relationships essentially depend on the ability to empathize with others and to recognize and appropriately address social conflicts, i.e., “sociocognitive functioning”. Therefore, sociocognitive functions may influence QoL and treatment outcome. In this article, we review the literature on psychosocial burden and sociocognitive functioning in adult brain tumor patients.
Nano-Biochar as a Sustainable Catalyst for Anaerobic Digestion: A Synergetic Closed-Loop Approach
Authors: Goswami Lalit , Kushwaha Anamika , Singh Anju , Saha Pathikrit , Choi Yoseok , Maharana Mrutyunjay , Patil Satish V. , Kim Beom Soo
Published: February 2022

Nowadays, the valorization of organic wastes using various carbon-capturing technologies is a prime research area. The anaerobic digestion (AD) technology is gaining much consideration in this regard that simultaneously deals with waste valorization and bioenergy production sustainably. Biochar, a well-recognized carbonaceous pyrogenic material and possessing a broad range of inherent physical and chemical properties, has diverse applications in the fields of agriculture, health-care, sensing, catalysis, carbon capture, the environment and energy. The nano-biochar-amended anaerobic digestion approach has intensively been explored for the past few years. However, an inclusive study of multi-functional roles of biochar and the mechanism involved for enhancing the biogas production via the AD process still need to be evaluated. The present review inspects the significant role of biochar addition and the kinetics involved, further focusing on the limitations, perspectives, and challenges of the technology. Additionally, the techno-economic analysis and life-cycle assessment of biochar-aided AD process for the closed-loop integration of biochar and AD and possible improvement practices are discussed.