bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Daily Actual Evapotranspiration Estimation in a Mediterranean Ecosystem from Landsat Observations Using SEBAL Approach
Authors: Awada Hassan , Di Prima Simone , Sirca Costantino , Giadrossich Filippo , Marras Serena , Spano Donatella , Pirastru Mario
Published: February 2021

Quantifying actual evapotranspiration (ETa) over natural vegetation is crucial in evaluating the water status of ecosystems and the water-use patterns in local or regional hydrological basins. Remote sensing-based surface energy balance models have been used extensively for estimating ETa in agro-environments; however, the application of these models to natural ecosystems is still limited. The surface energy balance algorithm for land (SEBAL) physical-based surface energy balance model was applied to estimate the actual evapotranspiration over a heterogeneous coverage of Mediterranean maquis in a natural reserve in Sardinia, Italy. The model was applied on 19 Landsat 5 and 8 images from 2009 to 2014, and the results were compared to the data of a micrometeorological station with eddy covariance flux measurements. Comparing the SEBAL-based evaporative fraction (ΛS) to the corresponding tower-derived evaporative fractions (ΛT) showed good flux estimations in the Landsat overpass time (Coefficient of determination R2 = 0.77, root mean square error RMSE = 0.05 and mean absolute error MAE = 0.076). Three methods were evaluated for upscaling instantaneous latent heat flux (λE) to daily actual evapotranspiration (ETa,D). The upscaling methods use the evaporative fraction (Λ), the reference evapotranspiration fraction (EFr) and the ratio of daily to instantaneous incoming shortwave radiation (Rs24/Rsi) as upscaling factors under the hypothesis of diurnal self-preservation. A preliminary analysis performed using only in-situ measured data demonstrated that the three factors were relatively self-preserved during the daytime, and can yield good ETa,D estimations, particularly when obtained at near the Landsat scene acquisition time (≈10:00 UTC). The upscaling factors obtained from SEBAL retrieved instantaneous fluxes, and some ancillary measured meteorological data were used to upscale SEBAL-estimated instantaneous actual λ to daily ET. The Λ EFr and Rs24/Rsi methods on average overestimated the measured ETa,D by nearly 20, 61 and 18%, respectively. The performance of the Λ and Rs24/Rsi methods was considered satisfactory, bearing in mind the high variable ground cover and the inherent variability of the biome composition, which cannot be properly represented in the Landsat moderate spatial resolution. In this study, we tested the potential of the SEBAL model application in a complex natural ecosystem. This modeling approach will be used to represent the spatial dynamics of ET, which will be integrated into further environmental and hydrological applications.
The Arabidopsis TETRATRICOPEPTIDE THIOREDOXIN-LIKE 1 Gene Is Involved in Anisotropic Root Growth during Osmotic Stress Adaptation
Authors: Cuadrado-Pedetti María Belén , Rauschert Inés , Sainz María Martha , Amorim-Silva Vítor , Botella Miguel Angel , Borsani Omar , Sotelo-Silveira Mariana
Published: February 2021

Mutations in the Arabidopsis TETRATRICOPEPTIDE THIOREDOXIN-LIKE 1 (TTL1) gene cause reduced tolerance to osmotic stress evidenced by an arrest in root growth and root swelling, which makes it an interesting model to explore how root growth is controlled under stress conditions. We found that osmotic stress reduced the growth rate of the primary root by inhibiting the cell elongation in the elongation zone followed by a reduction in the number of cortical cells in the proximal meristem. We then studied the stiffness of epidermal cell walls in the root elongation zone of ttl1 mutants under osmotic stress using atomic force microscopy. In plants grown in control conditions, the mean apparent elastic modulus was 448% higher for live Col-0 cell walls than for ttl1 (88.1 ± 2.8 vs. 16.08 ± 6.9 kPa). Seven days of osmotic stress caused an increase in the stiffness in the cell wall of the cells from the elongation zone of 87% and 84% for Col-0 and ttl1, respectively. These findings suggest that TTL1 may play a role controlling cell expansion orientation during root growth, necessary for osmotic stress adaptation.
Evaluation of Key PSHA Assumptions—Case-Study for Romania
Authors: Pavel Florin
Published: February 2021

This case-study focuses on the analysis of several key assumptions necessary for the probabilistic seismic hazard assessment of Romania in the light of a future seismic hazard zonation of the territory. Among the aspects analyzed in this study are the appropriateness of the Poisson assumption which is tested on the earthquake catalogs of several seismic sources (crustal and the Vrancea intermediate-depth source), the azimuthal dependence of ground motion amplitudes from Vrancea intermediate-depth earthquakes and possible ground motion amplifications due to basin effects. The analyses performed in this study show that the Poisson distribution is able to model the observed earthquake frequency occurrence for the larger magnitude seismic events both for crustal and intermediate-depth seismic sources. Similar ground motion attenuation patterns irrespective of the azimuth with respect to the Vrancea intermediate-depth seismic source were observed only in the case of the 30 May 1990 earthquake, while in the case of the seismic events of 30 August 1986 and 31 May 1990 significant azimuthal ground-motion attenuation differences were observed. No significant differences in terms of ground motion amplitudes were observed at three seismic stations in Iasi area during the Vrancea intermediate-depth earthquakes of 30 May 1990 and 31 May 1990 possibly due to the limited elevation difference. Finally, significant long-period spectral amplifications were observed on the ground motions recorded at several sites from intramountainous depressions in Romania.
Bokashi, Boiled Manure and Penergetic Applications Increased Agronomic Production Variables and May Enhance Powdery Mildew Severity of Organic Tomato Plants
Authors: Hata Fernando Teruhiko , Ventura Mauricio Ursi , de Freitas Fregonezi Gustavo Adolfo , de Lima Romário Fortunato
Published: February 2021

Research on organic fertilizers are of crucial importance for sustainable production systems with high efficiency of natural resource use. The objective of this study was to evaluate organic sources of fertilization (boiled manure (BM), effective microorganism (EM) Bokashi, and Penergetic) for their effects on agronomic variables (fruit size and yield, total soluble solids) and on foliar powdery mildew severity of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). The crops were grown during two cropping cycles in protected cultivation. The treatments were: Control (water only); 50 g per plant of EM Bokashi compost in two applications; Penergetic at 1.5 g L−1 applied to the substrate before planting or sprayed on the plants 14 days after transplanting; and BM at 2.5%, 5.0%, 7.5%, and 10% concentrations (vol/vol) in water, via fertigation. Fruit production and quality were assessed. The effects of treatments on powdery mildew (Leveillula taurica Lév. G. Arnaud) were analyzed by using a diagrammatic scale. Bokashi, 10% BM, and Penergetic increased fruit production of the first three fruit trusses. Bokashi treatment increased tomato fruit diameter. The effects on fruit length and total soluble solids varied with each crop cycle. Powdery mildew severity increased with 10% BM, compared to the control. Both 10% BM and Penergetic presented similar fruit production to Bokashi and are good candidates as substitutes for Bokashi as organic fertilizers/amendments while maintaining tomato yield.
Effects of Fertigation Management on the Quality of Organic Legumes Grown in Protected Cultivation
Authors: García-García María , Font Rafael , Gómez Pedro , Valenzuela Juan , Fernández Juan , Del Río-Celestino Mercedes
Published: February 2021

Appropriate fertigation management plays an important role in increasing crop quality and economizing water. The objective of the study was to determine the effects of two fertigation treatments, normal (T100) and 50% sustained deficit (T50), on the physico-chemical quality of legumes. The determinations were performed on the edible parts of peas, French beans and mangetout. The trials were conducted in a protected cultivation certified organic farm. The response of legumes to the treatments varied between the cultivars tested. The fertigation treatments had a significant effect on the morphometric traits (width for mangetout and French bean; fresh weight for French bean; seed height for Pea cv. Lincoln). The total soluble solids and citric acid content have been shown to be increased by low soil water availability (T50) for mangetout. Fertigation treatments did not significantly affect the antioxidant compounds (total phenolic and ascorbic acid), minerals and protein fraction contents of legumes studied. Regarding legume health benefits, the most prominent cultivars were BC-033620 pea and French bean because of their high total phenolic (65 mg gallic acid equivalent 100 g−1 fresh weight) and ascorbic acid content (55 mg ascorbic acid 100 g−1 fresh weight), respectively. The results expand our knowledge concerning the nutraceutical quality and appropriate cultivation methods of legumes in order to make the system more sustainable and to encourage their consumption.
Early Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the United States Construction Industry
Authors: Alsharef Abdullah , Banerjee Siddharth , Uddin S M Jamil , Albert Alex , Jaselskis Edward
Published: February 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has been the largest global health crisis in decades. Apart from the unprecedented number of deaths and hospitalizations, the pandemic has resulted in economic slowdowns, widespread business disruptions, and significant hardships. This study focused on investigating the early impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the U.S. construction industry since the declaration of the national emergency on 13 March 2020. The study objectives were achieved through 34 telephone interviews with project managers, engineers, designers, and superintendents that represented different states and distinct industry sectors in the United States (U.S.). The interviewees offered information on their experience with the pandemic, including the general and adverse effects experienced, new opportunities created, and risk management efforts being undertaken. The reported adverse effects included significant delays on projects, inability to secure materials on time, reduction in productivity rates, material price escalations, and others. The new opportunities that were created included projects involving the fast-track construction of medical facilities, construction of residential buildings, transportation-related work, and opportunities to recruit skilled workers. The risk management measures that were widely adopted included measures to enhance safety and reduce other project risks. The safety measures adopted included requiring employees to wear cloth face masks, adoption of social distancing protocols, staggering of construction operations, offering COVID-19-related training, administering temperature checks prior to entry into the workplace, and others. Measures to manage other project risks included the formation of a task force team to review the evolving pandemic and offer recommendations, advocating that construction businesses be deemed essential to combat delays and taking advantage of government relief programs. The study findings will be useful to industry stakeholders interested in understanding the early impacts of the pandemic on the construction industry. Industry stakeholders may also build upon the reported findings and establish best practices for continued safe and productive operations.
‘Tracking Together’—Simultaneous Use of Human and Dog Activity Trackers: Protocol for a Factorial, Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial
Authors: Jayawardene Wasantha , Huber Lesa , McDonnell Jimmy , Curran Laurel , Larson Sarah , Dickinson Stephanie , Chen Xiwei , Pena Erika , Carson Aletha , Johnston Jeanne
Published: February 2021

Dog-walkers are more likely to achieve moderate-intensity physical activity. Linking the use of activity trackers with dog-walking may be beneficial both in terms of improving the targeted behavior and increasing the likelihood of sustained use. This manuscript aims to describe the protocol of a pilot study which intends to examine the effects of simultaneous use of activity trackers by humans and their dogs on the physical activity level of humans and dogs. This study uses nonprobability sampling of dog owners of age 25–65 (N = 80) and involves four parallel groups in an observational randomized controlled trial with a 2 × 2 factorial design, based on use of dog or human activity trackers for eight weeks. Each group consists of dog-human duos, in which both, either or none are wearing an activity tracker for eight weeks. At baseline and end, all human subjects wear ActiGraph accelerometers that quantify physical activity for one week. Commercial activity trackers are used for tracking human and dog activity remotely. Additional measures for humans are body composition and self-reported physical activity. Dog owners also report dog’s weight and physical activity using a questionnaire. A factorial analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) is used to compare physical activity across the four groups from baseline to week-10.
Different Patterns of Mental Health Outcomes among Road Traffic Crash Survivors: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kovacevic Jelena , Fotez Ivica , Miskulin Ivan , Lesic Davor , Miskulin Maja , Berlancic Terezija , Vukoja Ivan , Candrlic Slavko , Palenkic Hrvoje , Candrlic Marija
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to investigate factors associated with the symptoms of mental disorders following a road traffic crash (RTC). A prospective cohort of 200 people was followed for 6 months after experiencing an RTC. The cohort was comprised of uninjured survivors and injured victims with all levels of road traffic injury (RTI) severity. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the associations between the symptoms of depression, posttraumatic stress disorder and anxiety one and six months after the RTC, along with sociodemographic factors, health status before and after the RTC, factors related to the RTI and factors related to the RTC. The results showed associations of depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms with sociodemographic factors, factors related to the health status before and after the RTC and factors related to the RTC. Factors related to the RTI showed associations only with depression and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Identifying factors associated with mental disorders following an RTC is essential for establishing screening of vulnerable individuals at risk of poor mental health outcomes after an RTC. All RTC survivors, regardless of their RTI status, should be screened for factors associated with mental disorders in order to successfully prevent them.
The Order of Draw during Blood Collection: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Bazzano Giacomo , Galazzi Alessandro , Giusti Gian Domenico , Panigada Mauro , Laquintana Dario
Published: February 2021

Blood collection is one of the most common nursing procedures and is not devoid of complications. The order of draw during blood collection is a controversial theme. We aimed to define the efficacy of the order of draw during blood collection to guarantee an exact biochemical result. We carried out a systematic literature review on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, Embase, Joanna Briggs Institute, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. Articles written in English and published from 2000 to 2020 were considered suitable. The analysis of the 11 articles included highlighted different opinions; however, the most recent evidence declares that the cross-contamination caused by the incorrect order of draw is a trait only in the open system of drawing. The most recent evidence affirms the negligible effect of the order of draw during blood collection when using the closed blood collection system, while it is recommended when using the open collection system.
Smoking-Related Health Beliefs in a Sample of Psychiatric Patients: Factors Associated with the Health Beliefs and Validation of the Health Belief Questionnaire
Authors: Asharani P. V. , Lau Jue Hua , Ai Ling Seet Vanessa , Devi Fiona , Wang Peizhi , Roystonn Kumarasan , Lee Ying Ying , Cetty Laxman , Teh Wen Lin , Verma Swapna , Mok Yee Ming , Chong Siow Ann , Subramaniam Mythily
Published: February 2021

This study examined the (a) health beliefs and emotions (perception of risk, benefits, severity, and worry) about smoking among current and former smokers, (b) their awareness of health warnings, (c) factors associated with smoking-related health beliefs, and (d) the factor structure of the health belief questionnaire. Participants (n = 184) were recruited from a tertiary psychiatric care hospital. Current smokers showed a significantly higher risk perception and lower perceived benefits compared to former smokers. Younger age (<40 years), nicotine dependence (ND), a history of smoking-related diseases (SRD), and intention to quit were significantly associated with a higher risk perception in current smokers. Younger age, a history of SRDs, and motivation to quit were positively associated with health beliefs, while the latter two were associated with worry. Motivation and younger age were associated with a better perception of benefits and severity. Information on the cigarette packets was the major source of awareness for the sample, and 69% reported that existing campaigns were not effective in discouraging their smoking. Personalized risk communication and educational initiatives must focus on improving the knowledge of risk, benefits, and increase motivation to promote health cognition and thus smoking cessation.
Recent Evolution of the Intertidal Sand Ridge Lines of the Dongsha Shoal in the Modern Radial Sand Ridges, East China
Authors: Liu Binglin , Wu Haotian , Zhang Zhenke , Wei Guoen , Wang Yue , Zheng Jie , Ji Xuepeng , Jiang Shengnan
Published: February 2021

The Dongsha Shoal is one of the largest shoals in the South Yellow Sea and has important marine ecological value. The shoal extends in a south–north direction and is controlled by the regional dominating tidal currents. Recently, due to human activities and some natural factors, the geomorphic dynamics of the Dongsha Shoal has undergone drastic changes. However, few people have proposed quantitative research on the changes of tidal flat morphology, let alone the long-term sequence analysis of sand ridge lines. Hence, we attempt to take the Dongsha Shoal in the Radial Sand Ridges as the research area, and analyze the trends of the long-term morphological evolution of the sand ridge lines over the period 1973–2016 based on a high-density time series of medium-resolution satellite images. The sand ridge line generally moves from southeast to northwest, and the position distribution of the sand ridge line from north to south has gradually changed from compact to scattered. We also found that the geomorphological dynamics at different positions of the sand ridge line are inconsistent. The north and south wings are eroded on the west side, while the central area is eroded on the east side. Most of the sand ridge line is moving eastward. In addition, the change of sand ridge line is affected by multiple factors such as sediment supply, typhoon, reclamation and laver cultivation.
Factors Associated with Successful Smoking Cessation According to Age Group: Findings of an 11-Year Korea National Survey
Authors: Kim Youngmee , Lee Ji Sung , Cho Won-Kyung
Published: February 2021

Previous studies suggest that factors related to smoking cessation may vary with age. This study examined the factors affecting smoking cessation by age among Korean adult male smokers using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2007 to 2018 (excluding 2013). Logistic regression analyses were used to investigate various factors associated with smoking cessation in three different age groups. Out of a total of 15,492 individuals, 31.5% of the 3523 individuals aged 19–39 years (young adult), 54.7% of the 7390 individuals aged 40–64 years (middle-aged), and 78.6% of the 4589 individuals aged ≥65 years (older adults) succeeded in quitting. In the young adult and middle-aged groups, being married was associated with successful quitting, and lifetime smoking was associated with unsuccessful quitting. Willpower and several comorbidities were related to successful cessation in the middle-aged and older adult groups. Skipping any meal, which suggests unhealthy behavior, was negatively related to quitting in the young adult group. We observed that factors associated with smoking cessation success or failure differed by age, which should be considered when developing smoking cessation policies and programs.
Pulmonary Health Effects of Indoor Volatile Organic Compounds—A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Alford Kyle L. , Kumar Naresh
Published: February 2021

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are commonly found in consumer products, including furniture, sealants and paints. Thus, indoor VOCs have become a public health concern, especially in high-income countries (HICs), where people spend most of their time indoors, and indoor and outdoor air exchange is minimal due to a lack of ventilation. VOCs produce high levels of reaction with the airway epithelium and mucosa membrane and is linked with pulmonary diseases. This paper takes a stock of the literature to assess the strength of association (measured by effect size) between VOCs and pulmonary diseases with the focus on asthma and its related symptoms by conducting a meta-analysis. The literature was searched using the PubMed database. A total of 49 studies that measured VOCs or VOC types and pulmonary health outcomes were included in the analysis. The results of these studies were tabulated, and standard effect size of each study was computed. Most studies were conducted in high-income countries, including France (n = 7), Japan (n = 7) and the United States (n = 6). Our analysis suggests that VOCs have a medium-sized effect on pulmonary diseases, including the onset of asthma (effect size (or Cohen’s d) ~0.37; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.25–0.49; n = 23) and wheezing (effective size ~0.26; 95% CI = 0.10–0.42; n = 10). The effect size also varied by country, age and disease type. Multiple stakeholders must be engaged in strategies to mitigate and manage VOC exposure and its associated pulmonary disease burden.
Asbestos in High-Risk Communities: Public Health Implications
Authors: Emmett Edward A.
Published: February 2021

Asbestos-related diseases (ARDs)—mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis—are well known as occupational diseases. As industrial asbestos use is eliminated, ARDs within the general community from para-occupational, environmental, and natural exposures are more prominent. ARD clusters have been studied in communities including Broni, Italy; Libby, Montana; Wittenoom, Western Australia; Karain, Turkey; Ambler, Pennsylvania; and elsewhere. Community ARDs pose specific public health issues and challenges. Community exposure results in higher proportions of mesothelioma in women and a younger age distribution than occupational exposures. Exposure amount, age at exposure, fiber type, and genetic predisposition influence ARD expression; vulnerable groups include those with social and behavioral risk, exposure to extreme events, and genetic predispositions. To address community exposure, regulations should address all carcinogenic elongated mineral fibers. Banning asbestos mining, use, and importation will not reduce risks from asbestos already in place. Residents of high-risk communities are characteristically exposed through several pathways differing among communities. Administrative responsibility for controlling environmental exposures is more diffuse than for workplaces, complicated by diverse community attitudes to risk and prevention and legal complexity. The National Mesothelioma Registries help track the identification of communities at risk. High-risk communities need enhanced services for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and social and psychological support, including for retired asbestos workers. Legal settlements could help fund community programs. A focus on prevention, public health programs, particularization to specific community needs, and participation is recommended.
Differential Regulation of Bilastine Affinity for Human Histamine H1 Receptors by Lys 179 and Lys 191 via Its Binding Enthalpy and Entropy
Authors: Akimoto Hayato , Sugihara Minoru , Hishinuma Shigeru
Published: February 2021

Bilastine, a zwitterionic second-generation antihistamine containing a carboxyl group, has higher selectivity for H1 receptors than first-generation antihistamines. Ligand-receptor docking simulations have suggested that the electrostatic interaction between the carboxyl group of second-generation antihistamines and the amino group of Lys179ECL2 and Lys1915.39 of human H1 receptors might contribute to increased affinity of these antihistamines to H1 receptors. In this study, we evaluated the roles of Lys179ECL2 and Lys1915.39 in regulating the electrostatic and hydrophobic binding of bilastine to H1 receptors by thermodynamic analyses. The binding enthalpy and entropy of bilastine were estimated from the van ’t Hoff equation using the dissociation constants. These constants were obtained from the displacement curves against the binding of [3H] mepyramine to membrane preparations of Chinese hamster ovary cells expressing wild-type human H1 receptors and their Lys179ECL2 or Lys1915.39 mutants to alanine at various temperatures. We found that the binding of bilastine to wild-type H1 receptors occurred by enthalpy-dependent binding forces and, more dominantly, entropy-dependent binding forces. The mutation of Lys179ECL2 and Lys1915.39 to alanine reduced the affinity of bilastine to H1 receptors by reducing enthalpy- and entropy-dependent binding forces, respectively. These results suggest that Lys179ECL2 and Lys1915.39 differentially contribute to the increased binding affinity to bilastine via electrostatic and hydrophobic binding forces.
Genomic, Clinical, and Behavioral Characterization of 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 Deletion (Burnside-Butler) Syndrome in Five Families
Authors: Baldwin Isaac , Shafer Robin L. , Hossain Waheeda A. , Gunewardena Sumedha , Veatch Olivia J. , Mosconi Matthew W. , Butler Merlin G.
Published: February 2021

The 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 deletion (Burnside-Butler) syndrome is emerging as the most common cytogenetic finding in patients with neurodevelopmental or autism spectrum disorders (ASD) presenting for microarray genetic testing. Clinical findings in Burnside-Butler syndrome include developmental and motor delays, congenital abnormalities, learning and behavioral problems, and abnormal brain findings. To better define symptom presentation, we performed comprehensive cognitive and behavioral testing, collected medical and family histories, and conducted clinical genetic evaluations. The 15q11.2 BP1-BP2 region includes the TUBGCP5, CYFIP1, NIPA1, and NIPA2 genes. To determine if additional genomic variation outside of the 15q11.2 region influences expression of symptoms in Burnside-Butler syndrome, whole-exome sequencing was performed on the parents and affected children for the first time in five families with at least one parent and child with the 15q1l.2 BP1-BP2 deletion. In total, there were 453 genes with possibly damaging variants identified across all of the affected children. Of these, 99 genes had exclusively de novo variants and 107 had variants inherited exclusively from the parent without the deletion. There were three genes (APBB1, GOLGA2, and MEOX1) with de novo variants that encode proteins evidenced to interact with CYFIP1. In addition, one other gene of interest (FAT3) had variants inherited from the parent without the deletion and encoded a protein interacting with CYFIP1. The affected individuals commonly displayed a neurodevelopmental phenotype including ASD, speech delay, abnormal reflexes, and coordination issues along with craniofacial findings and orthopedic-related connective tissue problems. Of the 453 genes with variants, 35 were associated with ASD. On average, each affected child had variants in 6 distinct ASD-associated genes (x¯ = 6.33, sd = 3.01). In addition, 32 genes with variants were included on clinical testing panels from Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) approved and accredited commercial laboratories reflecting other observed phenotypes. Notably, the dataset analyzed in this study was small and reported results will require validation in larger samples as well as functional follow-up. Regardless, we anticipate that results from our study will inform future research into the genetic factors influencing diverse symptoms in patients with Burnside-Butler syndrome, an emerging disorder with a neurodevelopmental behavioral phenotype.
Effect of Cultural Distinctiveness and Perception of Digital Advertising Appeals on Online Purchase Intention of Clothing Brands: Moderation of Gender Egalitarianism
Authors: Raza Syed Hassan , Zaman Umer
Published: February 2021

Digital advertising has been frequently used for the promotion of e-commerce among individuals. However, little is known about the function of cultural factors that can outline the effectiveness of digital advertising practices to alter attitude and consumer behavior toward clothing brands. This research examines how norm-congruent attitudes toward digital advertising (hereafter ADA) may operate as a process variable that mediates the relationship between perception about digital advertising (hereafter PDA) and online purchase intention of fashion brands (hereafter OPI). We propose a gender egalitarianism (hereafter GE)-moderated mediation model whereby ADA mediates the relationships between PDA and OPI in two culturally diverse nations: Malaysia and Pakistan. The model was tested by using 2 (GE appeal: present vs. absent) × 2 (nation: Pakistan vs. Malaysia) × 2 (no exposure to ads/exposure to ads) experimental design with data obtained from a sample of 260. Findings show that there is a significant difference in the relationship between PDA and OPI that is mediated by the attitude in both nations. However, the mediation implication of the attitude is significantly dependent on the interaction of the GE. In this way, the study provides some practical recommendations for the marketers by highlighting the salient advertising features that may be more useful in both nations.
Influence of Zwitterionic Buffer Effects with Thermal Modification Treatments of Wood on Symbiotic Protists in Reticulitermes grassei Clément
Authors: Duarte Sónia , Nunes Lina , Kržišnik Davor , Humar Miha , Jones Dennis
Published: February 2021

The majority of thermal modification processes are at temperatures greater than 180 °C, resulting in a product with some properties enhanced and some diminished (e.g., mechanical properties). However, the durability of thermally modified wood to termite attack is recognised as low. Recent attempts at combining thermal modification with chemical modification, either prior to or directly after the thermal process, are promising. Buffers, although not influencing the reaction systems, may interact on exposure to certain conditions, potentially acting as promoters of biological changes. In this study, two zwitterionic buffers, bicine and tricine, chosen for their potential to form Maillard-type products with fragmented hemicelluloses/volatiles, were assessed with and without thermal modification for two wood species (spruce and beech), with subsequent evaluation of their effect against subterranean termites (Reticulitermes grassei Clément) and their symbiotic protists. The effect of the wood treatments on termites and their symbionts was visible after four weeks, especially for spruce treated with tricine and bicine and heat treatment (bicine HT), and for beech treated with bicine and bicine and heat treatment (bicine HT). The chemical behaviour of these substances should be further investigated when in contact with wood and also after heat treatment. This is the first study evaluating the effect of potential Maillard reactions with zwitterionic buffers on subterranean termite symbiotic fauna.
The Future of Organic Insect Pest Management: Be a Better Entomologist or Pay for Someone Who Is
Authors: Headrick David
Published: February 2021

Insect pest management in certified organic production systems presents considerable challenges for growers. The Federal National Organic Program (NOP) guidelines list acceptable tactics, but their effective use requires a considerable knowledgebase in entomology. The range of tactics allowed by the NOP are viewed as limiting by many growers and there are important elements missing from the list such as pest monitoring and identification. Educational programs must consider utilizing instructional methods and additional means of outreach that introduce new pest management tactics that are individualized, regionally appropriate and emphasize grower adoption and collaboration with local professionals. This review describes the challenges and knowledge burden associated with the listed NOP pest management guidelines, provides an educational model that includes an additional level of professional support for enhanced adoption of novel pest management tactics, or refinement of current practices, with a special emphasis on the importance of insect pest population monitoring.
Two-Year Follow-Up after Endovenous Closure with Short-Chain Cyanoacrylate versus Laser Ablation in Venous Insufficiency
Authors: Wilczko Justyna , Szary Cezary , Plucinska Dominika , Grzela Tomasz
Published: February 2021

Background: The current treatment of venous disease is focused on the minimally invasive exclusion of the affected vein. Besides widely used thermal ablation, chemical ablation with cyanoacrylate, reported as safe and highly effective, has been gaining increasing interest. Patients and methods: In the current report, we present data from a two-year observation in 89 patients (61 female/28 male, mean age 44.3 ± 13.5) suffering from venous insufficiency (C2–C4), treated either using short-chain cyanoacrylate, the VenaBlock system (n = 43) or laser thermoablation with ELVeS 1470 (n = 46). The assessment comprised the occurrence of venous disease-related symptoms and the ultrasound examination of the leg venous system. Results: The frequency of recanalization after 2 years from the VenaBlock procedure was significantly higher than after laser treatment (37.2 vs. 8.7%). Apart from recanalization, in some individuals from both groups, the symptoms of recurrence and/or disease progression, including the development of insufficiency in other veins of treated or contralateral legs (9.3 vs. 15.2% and 9.3 vs. 17.4%, respectively), were observed. Unexpectedly, the general prevalence of the disease progression did not differ significantly between the VenaBlock and ELVeS groups (44.2 vs. 34.8%, respectively). Conclusions: Despite the higher recanalization rate of VenaBlock compared to ELVeS, the overall effectiveness of cyanoacrylate and laser thermoablation after two years was similar. Therefore, both methods similarly failed to prevent recurrence and disease progression, which seem to be method-independent.
Thinking Outside the Ischemia Box: Advancements in the Use of Multiple Sclerosis Drugs in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Aloizou Athina-Maria , Siokas Vasileios , Pateraki Georgia , Liampas Ioannis , Bakirtzis Christos , Tsouris Zisis , Lazopoulos George , Calina Daniela , Docea Anca Oana , Tsatsakis Aristidis , Bogdanos Dimitrios P. , Dardiotis Efthimios
Published: February 2021

Ischemic stroke (IS) is a major cause of death and disability, despite early intervention. Thrombo-inflammation, the inflammatory process triggered by ischemia, is a concept that ties IS with multiple sclerosis (MS), under the wider ‘umbrella’ of neuroinflammation, i.e., the inflammation of the nervous tissue. Drawing from this, numerous studies have explored the potential of MS disease-modifying drugs in the setting of IS. In this review, we present the available studies and discuss their potential in ameliorating IS outcomes. Based on our search, the vast majority of the studies have been conducted on animals, yielding mostly positive results. Two clinical trials involving natalizumab showed that it does not confer any benefits, but four human studies regarding fingolimod have showcased its potential in improving recovery prospects. However, concerns on safety and other issues are raised, and basic questions still need to be answered.
Development of a Clinical and Genetic Prediction Model for Early Intestinal Resection in Patients with Crohn’s Disease: Results from the IMPACT Study
Authors: Kang Eun Ae , Jang Jongha , Choi Chang Hwan , Kang Sang Bum , Bang Ki Bae , Kim Tae Oh , Seo Geom Seog , Cha Jae Myung , Chun Jaeyoung , Jung Yunho , Kim Hyun Gun , Im Jong Pil , Kim Sangsoo , Ahn Kwang Sung , Lee Chang Kyun , Kim Hyo Jong , Kim Min Suk , Park Dong Il
Published: February 2021

Early intestinal resection in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) is necessary due to a severe and complicating disease course. Herein, we aim to predict which patients with CD need early intestinal resection within 3 years of diagnosis, according to a tree-based machine learning technique. The single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotype data for 337 CD patients recruited from 15 hospitals were typed using the Korea Biobank Array. For external validation, an additional 126 CD patients were genotyped. The predictive model was trained using the 102 candidate SNPs and seven sets of clinical information (age, sex, cigarette smoking, disease location, disease behavior, upper gastrointestinal involvement, and perianal disease) by employing a tree-based machine learning method (CatBoost). The importance of each feature was measured using the Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAP) model. The final model comprised two clinical parameters (age and disease behavior) and four SNPs (rs28785174, rs60532570, rs13056955, and rs7660164). The combined clinical–genetic model predicted early surgery more accurately than a clinical-only model in both internal (area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC), 0.878 vs. 0.782; n = 51; p < 0.001) and external validation (AUROC, 0.836 vs. 0.805; n = 126; p < 0.001). Identification of genetic polymorphisms and clinical features enhanced the prediction of early intestinal resection in patients with CD.
Prognostic Value of Preoperative Inflammatory Markers in Melanoma Patients with Brain Metastases
Authors: Schneider Matthias , Schäfer Niklas , Bode Christian , Borger Valeri , Eichhorn Lars , Giordano Frank A. , Güresir Erdem , Heimann Muriel , Ko Yon-Dschun , Lehmann Felix , Potthoff Anna-Laura , Radbruch Alexander , Schaub Christina , Schwab Katjana S. , Weller Johannes , Vatter Hartmut , Herrlinger Ulrich , Landsberg Jennifer , Schuss Patrick
Published: February 2021

Background: Metastatic melanoma disease is accompanied by highly systemic inflammatory responses. The prognostic value of preoperative laboratory inflammation markers in brain metastatic melanoma patients has not been adequately investigated so far. Methods: Preoperative inflammatory blood parameters were correlated to overall survival (OS) rates in melanoma patients that underwent surgery for brain metastasis (BM) between 2013 and 2019 at the authors’ institution. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were used for cutoff determination of routine laboratory parameters. Results: Median OS in the present cohort of 30 melanoma patients with surgically treated BM was 7 months (95% confidence interval (CI) 5.7–8.3). Initial elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels (>10 mg/L), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) ≥ 4, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) ≥ 145, and lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR) < 2 were associated with significantly reduced OS rates. Conclusions: The present study identifies several preoperative peripheral inflammatory markers as indicators for poor prognosis in melanoma patients with BM undergoing neurosurgical treatment. Elevated initial CRP values, higher NLR and PLR, and lower LMR were associated with reduced OS and, thus, might be incorporated into preoperative interdisciplinary treatment planning and counseling for affected patients.
Interrelationship of Seasons with Inflammation, Red Meat, Fruit, and Vegetable Intakes, Cardio-Metabolic Health, and Smoking Status among Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Wu Tianying , Shinde Rajashree , Castro Robert , Pierce John P.
Published: February 2021

Seasons can affect human inflammatory status and the occurrence of diseases, and foods may also have differential impacts on inflammation across seasons; however, few studies have investigated whether there are independent and joint impacts of seasons and red meat, fruit and vegetable intakes on inflammation in breast cancer survivors. We conducted a cross-sectional study by leveraging a large cohort, the Women’s Healthy Eating and Living (WHEL) study. The WHEL study comprised primarily early stage breast cancer survivors and collected blood samples, dietary intake, demographic, and health status information at baseline. We selected 2919 participants who provided baseline dietary information and had measurement of C-reactive protein (CRP), a general marker of inflammation. In our multivariable-adjusted analyses, we found that red meat intakes were positively associated, while fruit and vegetable intakes were inversely associated with CRP; blood collected in the winter season was associated with lower CRP when compared to summer; and increased smoking intensity and body mass index (BMI) as well as having cardio-metabolic conditions (such as heart disease or diabetes) were positively associated with CRP. Furthermore, we examined the joint associations of food intakes and the season of blood draw with CRP in different subgroups. We found that moderate intakes of red meat were associated with a reduction of CRP in winter but not in other seasons; increased intakes of fruit and vegetables were associated with reduced inflammation in most seasons except winter. These associations were observed in most subgroups except past smokers with pack-years ≥ 15, in whom we observed no benefit of red meat intakes in winter. Our study provides valuable evidence for considering seasonal impacts on inflammation and seasonal food impacts in different subgroups among breast cancer survivors. The results of our study are in line with one of the emphases of the current NIH 2020–2030 nutrition strategy plan—namely, pay attention to what, when, and who should eat.
Constitutive Modeling of Physical Properties of Coastal Sand during Tunneling Construction Disturbance
Authors: Zhu Jian-Feng , Zhao Hong-Yi , Xu Ri-Qing , Luo Zhan-You , Jeng Dong-Sheng
Published: February 2021

This paper presents a simple but workable constitutive model for the stress–strain relationship of sandy soil during the process of tunneling construction disturbance in coastal cities. The model was developed by linking the parameter K and internal angle φ of the Duncan–Chang model with the disturbed degree of sand, in which the effects of the initial void ratio on the strength deformation property of sands are considered using a unified disturbance function based on disturbed state concept theory. Three cases were analyzed to investigate the validity of the proposed constitutive model considering disturbance. After validation, the proposed constitutive model was further incorporated into a 3D finite element framework to predict the soil deformation caused by shield construction. It was found that the simulated results agreed well with the analytical solution, indicating that the developed numerical model with proposed constitutive relationship is capable of characterizing the mechanical properties of sand under tunneling construction disturbance.
Cryo-Electron Tomography of Candida glabrata Plasma Membrane Proteins
Authors: Jiménez-Ortigosa Cristina , Jiang Jennifer , Chen Muyuan , Kuang Xuyuan , Healey Kelley , Castellano Paul , Boparai Nikpreet , Ludtke Steven , Perlin David , Dai Wei
Published: February 2021

Fungal plasma membrane proteins have long been recognized as targets for the development of antifungal agents. Despite recent progress in experimental approaches and computational structural predictions, our knowledge of the structural dynamics and spatial distribution of these membrane proteins in the context of their native lipid environment remains limited. By applying cryo-electron tomography (cryoET) and subtomogram analysis, we aim to characterize the structural characteristics and spatial distribution of membrane proteins present in Candida glabrata plasma membranes. This study has resulted in the identification of the membrane-embedded structure of the fungal H+-ATPase, Pma1. Tomograms of the plasma membrane revealed that Pma1 complexes are heterogeneously distributed as hexamers that cluster into distinct membrane microdomains. This study characterizes fungal membrane proteins in the native cellular landscape and highlights the unique potential of cryoET to advance our understanding of cellular biology and biological systems.
Strategies for the Prevention of Invasive Fungal Infections after Lung Transplant
Authors: Bitterman Roni , Marinelli Tina , Husain Shahid
Published: February 2021

Long-term survival after lung transplantation is lower than that associated with other transplanted organs. Infectious complications, most importantly invasive fungal infections, have detrimental effects and are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in this population. Candida infections predominate in the early post-transplant period, whereas invasive mold infections, usually those related to Aspergillus, are most common later on. This review summarizes the epidemiology and risk factors for invasive fungal diseases in lung transplant recipients, as well as the current evidence on preventive measures. These measures include universal prophylaxis, targeted prophylaxis, and preemptive treatment. Although there is consensus that a preventive strategy should be implemented, current data show no superiority of one preventive measure over another. Data are also lacking regarding the optimal antifungal regimen and the duration of treatment. As all current recommendations are based on observational, single-center, single-arm studies, it is necessary that this longstanding debate is settled with a multicenter randomized controlled trial.
Calcium Silicate Cements vs. Epoxy Resin Based Cements: Narrative Review
Authors: Dioguardi Mario , Quarta Cristian , Sovereto Diego , Troiano Giuseppe , Zhurakivska Khrystyna , Bizzoca Maria , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Lo Russo Lucio
Published: February 2021

In recent years, calcium silicate cements have been introduced. The purpose of this study is to analyze the main differences between calcium silicate-based cements and epoxy resin-based cements, analyzing the scientific literature of the last year to highlight the main advantages for predictable clinical use. Data collected from the included studies were used in order to analyze different features: chemical-physical properties, cytotoxicity and cell migration, inflammatory response, mineralizing and osteogenic activity, ion release and the filling efficiency of root canals. The calcium silicate cements analyzed in these studies showed good biological and mechanical properties compared to conventional resin-based cements, resulting in better biocompatibility and less cytotoxicity; long-term studies are needed, but these cements have ideal characteristics to allow efficient filling of root canals.
DETERMINATION OF THE NEEDS OF THE ORGANIZATION OPERATING MODERN DIGITAL SYSTEMS, NETWORKS AND COMMUNICATION COMPLEXES FOR MEASURING INSTRUMENTS
Authors: DAVYDOVA N.V. , DUBROVIN A.G. , GUDIKOV A.L. , IVANOV Y.N.
Published: February 2021

The article considers the approach to determining the need for measuring instruments of an organization engaged in the operation of modern digital systems, networks and communication complexes. Based on the existing replenishment strategy, an example is given for calculating the measure reserve.