bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring United States genetic counselor and healthcare interpreter perspectives: Allocation of roles within the genetic counseling encounter
Authors: Wang Melissa , Rosenbaum Marc , Dineen Richard , Stoll Jessica , Schmitz Karen , Hsu Melissa
Published: April 2022

Genetic counselors (GCs) and healthcare interpreters (HIs) are key members of the healthcare team when providing genetic counseling services to patients with Limited English Proficiency (LEP); however, the working relationship between GCs and HIs and the role each member plays within a genetic counseling session is unclear. Previous studies assessing this relationship have been qualitative and limited in sample size (Agather et al., 2018, Journal of Genetic Counseling, 26, 1388; Krieger et al., 2018, Journal of Genetic Counseling, 26, 1388; Lara‐Otero et al., 2019, Health Communication, 34, 1608; Rosenbaum et al., 2020, Journal of Genetic Counseling, 29, 352). This study utilized a quantitative approach to allow for sampling of larger populations and to simultaneously understand current perspectives of GCs and HIs regarding each other's and their own roles within a genetic counseling session. GC and HI participants from the United States were recruited via email to complete an online survey with questions regarding interactions prior to a session, roles during a session, and opportunities for collaboration and constraints in the working relationship. Descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized to analyze responses of GCs and HIs. 130 GC and 40 HI participants were included in this study. There were statistically significant differences (p < .001) in responses between GC and HI participants on the expected distribution of roles during a session in advocacy, psychosocial and cultural domains. Additionally, this study identified that HI desired resources and training regarding genetics and genetic counseling are currently not being met. To our knowledge, this is the largest study to simultaneously survey GC and HI perspectives on these topics. Our findings suggest the need for greater communication and collaboration between GCs and HIs to ensure high‐quality care for patients with LEP. Integrating a pre‐session meeting between the GC and HI for sessions with patients with LEP and increasing education for GCs and HIs on the roles each group brings into a session is warranted to optimize this collaborative relationship and patient care.
Clinical characteristics, complications, and predictors of outcome of hospitalized adult Sudanese patients with COVID‐19 and malaria coinfection in Sudan: A multicenter retrospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Abbasher Hussien Mohamed Ahmed Khabab , Hasabo Elfatih A. , Haroun Mazin S. , Mah. Fadelallah Eljack Moh. , Salih Esraa Hassan , Altayeb Yousif F. O. , Nour Alshareef B. , Abdallah Abdallah M. , Osman Waddah A. M. , Yousif Mohammed Y. E.
Published: April 2022

Malaria and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) share several characteristics that could lead to cross‐infection, particularly in malaria‐endemic areas. Early COVID‐19 symptoms might be misdiagnosed for malaria in clinical settings. Also, both diseases can cause fatal complications. So, laboratory testing for both diseases was recommended by the World Health Organization. To study the clinical characteristics and outcomes of Adult Sudanese patients with COVID‐19 and malaria coinfection. This retrospective cross‐sectional study was conducted from January 2021 to October 2021 in Wad Medani. Total coverage of all Sudanese patients above 18 years old with a confirmed diagnosis of coinfection with COVID‐19 and malaria was included, and data were collected using a data collection sheet. Data were analyzed using R software version 4.0.2. Data were described and presented as mean, standard deviation, and number (percentage). To find associated factors with in‐hospital outcome, χ2 test, fisher exact test, and independent t test or Wilcoxon rank‐sum test were used. In this study, 156 participants were diagnosed with COVID‐19 and malaria coinfection. Most of them were between 60 and 70 years (30.8%), the majority were males (59%). Shortness of breath (76.3%) and acute respiratory distress syndrome (35.3%) were the most common symptom and complications among coinfected patients, respectively. Ground glass opacity (n = 47/49, 95.9%) is the most common result for computed tomography scan. Atrial fibrillation was the most common abnormal electrocardiogram finding (n = 6/62, 9.7%). Overall mortality among all participants was (63/156, 40.4%). High mortality rate was found among the coinfected patients. More attention is needed towards fighting COVID‐19 and malaria coinfection. There may be a link between malaria and COVID‐19.
Challenging the hypothesis of an Arctic Ocean lake during recent glacial episodes
Authors: Hillaire‐Marcel Claude , Myers Paul G. , Marshall Shawn , Tarasov Lev , Purcell Karl , Not Christelle , De Vernal Anne
Published: April 2022

The Arctic Ocean is one of the last frontiers on Earth with many unknowns about its geological and climate history and considerable speculation on its role in the Earth's climate and ocean system. It has been proposed recently that it was occupied by a freshwater body of more than 9.5 × 106 km3 underneath a thick ice mass during part of glacial isotopic stages 6 and 4. We argue that such a dramatic scenario, implying replacement of marine waters by freshwater throughout the entire Arctic Ocean and Nordic Seas, is physically implausible. The very low 230Th excesses (230Thxs) observed in sediments from these intervals were used as evidence for the presence of a U‐depleted overlying freshwater column. We show here that they may simply result from short, sporadic sedimentary pulses, below multiyear sea ice or ice shelves, linked to deglacial ice streaming and surging events interrupting long‐duration sedimentary gaps. Due to this sporadic sedimentation regime, interpolating time from 230Thxs data or between benchmark ages in sedimentary sequences would simply be erroneous.
A new species of small Camelidae from the Late Pleistocene of Brazil
Authors: C. Greco Marcelo , Trindade Dantas Mário André , Cozzuol Mario Alberto
Published: April 2022

Camelids have been known in South America since the late Pliocene, where they arrived from North America as part of the Great American Biotic Interchange (GABI). They became extinct in North America by the late Pleistocene, while surviving in the Southern Cone of South America and in high altitudes of the Andean region. Extinct South American camelids are generally included in the genera Palaeolama and Hemiauchenia, members of which are larger than modern species. We describe here a new, small species of the genus Hemiauchenia based on late Pleistocene specimens previously assigned to Lama guanicoe. This specimen lived in northeastern Brazil at 22 345–21 907 cal a
bp, and had a diet composed mainly of C3 plants.
The face of the brand: Spokesperson facial width‐to‐height ratio predicts brand personality judgments
Authors: Deska Jason C. , Hingston Sean T. , DelVecchio Devon , Stenstrom Eric P. , Walker Ryan J. , Hugenberg Kurt
Published: April 2022

Brands often employ spokespersons to serve as the face of their organization and spokespersons characteristics can influence consumer behavior. We examined whether a subtle, appearance‐based aspect—facial width‐to‐height ratio (fWHR)—affects brand judgments. Specifically, we demonstrate that high (low) fWHR spokespersons are more effective for rugged (sincere) brands leading to more positive ad evaluations, greater brand liking, and higher purchase intensions. Across four experiments, we used across‐target and within‐individual manipulations of spokesperson fWHR to test our hypotheses and investigate the downstream implications for consumer preferences and purchasing intentions. We find that spokesperson fWHR influenced judgments of spokesperson effectiveness for different kinds of brands (Study 1); spokesperson fWHR impacts a brand's perceived personality (Study 2); and that congruency between spokespersons’ faces and brands’ personalities influence how much consumers like brands, their advertisements, and how willing they are to purchase advertised products (Studies 3–4). This study has implications for marketers and contributes to the brand personality and person perception literatures by demonstrating how subtle variations in spokespersons’ face structure can influence consumer judgments.
An ultra‐thin flexible four port MIMO antenna for WBAN communications
Authors: Ramanujam Rajkumar , Perumalsamy Marichamy
Published: April 2022

This letter reports the design of a quasi Yagi‐Uda Antenna developed on an ultra‐thin flexible material for wireless body area networks (WBAN). The proposed planar Yagi‐Uda antenna operates at 2.45 GHz ISM band for medical applications. The microstrip line to slot line transition with circular geometry is used to obtain the necessary impedance matching. The proposed antenna has a footprint of 42 × 36 mm with a profile height of 0.05 mm. The quasi Yagi‐Uda antenna with a set of two directors exhibits 5% bandwidth with a unidirectional radiation pattern and a peak gain of 4 dBi. A four‐port multiple input and multiple output (MIMO) antenna is later developed to meet the diversity requirements of body‐centric communications. To improve the front‐to‐back ratio and specific absorption rate, the MIMO antenna is backed by a metallic reflector. The on‐body performance of the antenna are studied and the results are presented. The estimated envelope correlation coefficient is less than 0.4, apparent diversity gain is greater than 8 dB and effective diversity gain is above 7.2 dB for the proposed four‐element MIMO antenna. The prototype antenna is fabricated and the results indicate that the proposed antenna is suitable for WBAN communications.
Response Validity in Psychoeducational evaluations: Results from a National Survey of School Psychologists
Authors: Lovett Benjamin J. , Spenceley Laura M. , Schaberg Theresa M. , Best Haley
Published: April 2022

For psychoeducational evaluations to generate useful data, students must put forth sufficient effort on diagnostic tests, and they and their caregivers and teachers must respond honestly and carefully when asked about symptoms. These features are collectively known as response validity, a concept widely discussed in neuropsychological assessment but rarely discussed explicitly in the school psychology literature. School psychologists (N = 311, 82.6% female) were surveyed about their attitudes and practices regarding response validity. Most respondents used informal observational strategies to assess response validity when conducting psychoeducational evaluations, but very few respondents administered any specialized formal standalone measures to assess response validity. The vast majority of respondents were nonetheless interested in the topic and felt that it was insufficiently addressed in the training of school psychologists. Trainers should cover response validity issues in greater detail, and practitioners should consider using more formal strategies to assess response validity.
The impact of the COVID‐19 school closures on families with children with disabilities: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Lipkin Molly , Crepeau‐Hobson Franci
Published: April 2022

The unprecedented school closures in response to COVID‐19 have been associated with a number of negative impacts on students and their families. In addition to these difficulties, parents of students with disabilities are faced with prepandemic stresses and challenges that may be exacerbated by the school closures. This qualitative study aimed to investigate the experiences and struggles of parents of children identified with a disability during the COVID‐19 school closures. The 15 participants were parents of children with a range of disabilities, including Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, and learning disabilities. The analyses revealed four major themes: school connection, virtual learning, potential impacts for students, and managing change. The experiences of these caregivers during the COVID‐19 school closures and subsequent shift to remote learning have implications for educational and treatment planning. Recommendations for how school psychologists and school teams may best support students with disabilities and their families are included.
Natural herbicidal alkaloid berberine regulates the expression of thalianol and marneral gene clusters in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Li Dandan , Bi Xiaoyang , Ma Jingjing , Zhang Xiaohong , Jiang Keni , Zhu Xuezhen , Huang Jiguang , Zhou Lijuan
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

Berberine is a plant‐derived herbicidal alkaloid. The herbicidal mechanism of berberine is still not clear. In this study, our aim is to clarify the mechanism of berberine inhibiting the root growth of Arabidopsis thaliana, aiming at providing new insight into identifying the molecular targets of berberine.

RESULTS

The whole‐genome RNA sequencing had revealed that 403 genes were down‐regulated, and 422 genes were up‐regulated in Arabidopsis roots with berberine treatment. According to KEGG and GO analysis, the expression of two genes AT5G48010 (Thas) and AT5G42600 (MRN1) which are in the sesquiterpenoid and triterpenoid biosynthesis pathway were affected most. These two genes belong to thalianol and marneral gene clusters. RT‐PCR showed that Arabidopsis responds to berberine by inhibiting root growth through repressing the expression of thalianol and marneral gene clusters, which was independent of the upstream effectors ARP6 and HTA9‐1. GC–MS analysis showed that berberine could inhibit THAH in the biosynthetic network of triterpenoid gene cluster in Arabidopsis and thus cause the accumulation of thalianol.

CONCLUSION

Our study indicated the repression of the thalianol and marneral gene clusters as the primary mechanism of action of berberine in Arabidopsis, which may result in plant growth defects by interrupting the thalianol metabolic pathway. This provides novel clues as to the possible molecular herbicidal mechanism of berberine. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Characterization of a heptapeptide‐modified microsphere for oriented antibody immobilization
Authors: Bai Shu , Zhang Jie , Zhu Liyan , Gong Xiaoxing , Yu Linling , Sun Yan
Published: April 2022

Oriented immobilization of antibodies is important for the effective recognition of target antigens. In this paper, a heptapeptide ligand, HWRGWVC (HC7), was modified onto non‐porous monosized poly(glyceryl methacrylate) (pGMA) microspheres (named pGMA‐HC7) to explore the antibody immobilization behaviors. Characterization of the microspheres by particle size analyzer, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and reversed‐phase chromatography proved the success of each fabrication step. The capacity and activity of antibody immobilization through HC7 were studied using immunoglobulin G (IgG) as a model antibody and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) as a model antigen. Additionally, IgG immobilizations on pGMA microspheres by nonspecific adsorption and covalent coupling through carbodiimide chemistry were conducted for comparison. pGMA‐HC7 exhibited an IgG adsorption capacity of 3–4 mg/g in 10 min by the specific binding of HC7 without nonspecific interactions. Notably, the ligand HC7 showed a by two orders of magnitude stronger affinity for IgG than its original hexapeptide ligand HWRGWV. Moreover, the capacity and activity of the immobilized anti‐HRP antibody on pGMA‐HC7 were 1.6‐fold and 3‐fold higher than those of the covalent coupling, respectively. The results proved the superior role of HWRGWVC in the affinity binding of antibody and the potential of pGMA‐HC7‐25 in immunoassay and immunodiagnostic applications.
Sustainable development through the effect of board diversity and CEO duality on corporate risk: Does the state‐owned enterprises matter?
Authors: Gallego‐Álvarez Isabel , Pucheta‐Martínez María Consuelo
Published: April 2022

To date, not much research has been devoted to analyzing the impact of some corporate governance mechanisms (board diversity and CEO duality) on corporate risk. Consequently, we believe that it is necessary to study such topic in greater depth. The aim of this research is to provide further evidence of the impact that board diversity, specifically board specific skills, board tenure and board cultural diversity, as well as CEO duality, have on corporate risk. Additionally, our study also examines the moderating role of the state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) on the association between the three characteristics of board diversity and corporate risk, and between CEO duality and corporate risk. The theoretical framework used in this research is based on agency theory and resource dependence theory. The findings show that board specific skills and board cultural diversity have a negative effect on corporate risk, while board tenure does not affect it. On the other hand, CEO duality has a negative effect, which is against the prediction of our hypothesis. Our evidence also reveals a negative moderating effect of SOEs on the impact of board specific skills, board tenure and board cultural diversity on corporate risk. Additionally, SOEs do not moderate the negative impact of CEO duality on corporate risk. Our research contributes to past literature on corporate risk by concluding that some corporate governance mechanisms like board specific skills, board cultural diversity and CEO duality lessen it. The moderating role performed by SOEs with the relationship between board specific skills, board culture diversity, board tenure and corporate risk is also a relevant contribution.
EIT 40‐Electrodes Breast Cancer Detection and Screening
Authors: Mansouri Sofiene , Chabchoub Souhir , Alharbi Yousef , Alshrouf Anwar
Published: April 2022

In this paper, we presented a new electrical impedance tomography (EIT) method for the early detection of breast cancer. We designed a breast phantom comprising three tumors of different sizes. We tested the reconstruction of the image of this breast using 16, 24, 32 and 40 electrodes. The electrodes were placed according to a static, adapted and dynamic mode. The quality of the reconstruction was carried out by the root mean square error (RMSE). The best result was obtained with 40‐electrodes system and dynamic mode. The image reconstruction was improved by a segmentation, an edge detection by Canny filter and a morphological closure filter. This system allowed the detection of a T1 tumor. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Modeling probability density functions of velocity fluctuations in wind farms
Authors: Kreienkamp Kim L. , Wilczek Michael
Published: April 2022

The flow in large wind farms is a complex multiscale phenomenon, making comprehensive analytical or computational studies of velocity fluctuations challenging. Motivated by the need for simple, physics‐based analytical approaches to short‐time wind velocity prediction, we derive a statistical model for the spatio‐temporal evolution of streamwise velocity fluctuations in wind farms. Here, we show that the one‐point—one‐time probability density function of velocity fluctuations can be modeled by a weighted superposition of two Ornstein‐Uhlenbeck processes. The model is extended to a one‐particle advection model assuming Taylor's hypothesis of frozen turbulence. We find that our advection model captures the decorrelation process of streamwise velocity fluctuations observed in experiments.
Technology-Enabled Assessment and Improvement of Inclusive Learning and Quality of Life in Higher Education
Authors: Toledo-Rodriguez Maria , Boillat Thomas
Published: April 2022

Educational efforts and achievement in an individual’s youth influence their life-long social status and quality of life. Historically, higher education’s teaching relied on passive learning of hour’s long monologues delivered in person. This system puts in clear disadvantage and reduces the quality of life of many students who cannot attend lectures or keep up with the pace of learning. Fortunately, the current technology-led paradigm shift in undergraduate teaching and learning, addresses these challenges.

Here we investigated: (1) what are the current assessment methods for cognitive state, memory and learning in healthy populations? (2) What types of platforms and tools offer alternative ways of learning and interacting in classrooms?; How can these platforms (3) support assessment of students’ cognitive state and learning process? and (4) support students with specific needs? To answer (1), we conducted scoping review on the current instruments and scales.; for (2) we interviewed digital learners, researchers, and faculty and created a list of platforms and tools, which were further analyzed to answer the last questions.

We found that digital tools allow students to: (a) access course material remotely, (b) engage with classmates in groups/forums (c) work collaboratively on shared documents and (d) provide feedback and communicate anonymously with classmates and lecturers during and/or after lectures.

We show that, while learning platforms and tools can adapt learning to the students’ abilities, learners and lectures require additional training/paradigm shift to fully benefit. We present results and discuss design implications for technologies, which, could boost learning and attainment of educational goals, particularly for “non-traditional” learners.
Role of Technology-Enabled Tools for Measuring Financial Resources and Improving Quality of Life
Authors: Branin Joan Julia
Published: April 2022

An individual’s financial resources are directly related to their ability to meet current and future needs. Higher levels of financial assets and lower debt have been found to be positively associated with financial satisfaction. On the other hand, inadequate financial resources can lead to financial strain and financial distress. According to the WHOQOL theoretical model, financial resources refer to a person’s view of how his/her financial resources, the extent to which these resources meet the needs for a healthy and comfortable lifestyle, and what the person can afford or cannot afford which might affect quality of life. Few studies have addressed the impact of financial resources and financial burden on quality of life and the role of QoL technology-enabled tools for measuring and managing financial resource and improving quality of life. This chapter reviews the literature about (1) the effects of financial resources and financial burden on treatment outcomes and overall quality of life; (2) the state-of-art tools for measuring financial resources by individuals and financial and health professionals; (3) the evaluation of Web-based interventions for enhancing financial resource management; and (4) the behavioral and technology-related factors for successful adoption of QoL technology-enabled methods and financial resource management tools for improving individual life satisfaction and financial well-being.
Assessing Activity of Daily Living through Technology-Enabled Tools: Mobility and Nutrition Assessment: MiranaBot: A Nutrition Assessment Use Case
Authors: Randriambelonoro Mirana
Published: April 2022

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) refers to the fundamental skills required to care for one-self and live independently and includes dressing, feeding, personal hygiene, continence and transferring. Assessing ADLs is therefore essential, especially for vulnerable population who may need assistance in performing these activities. As current validated scales to measure ADLs capacity are often dependent of an informant or a caregiver and are mainly performed in the controlled settings of the hospital, using technology-enabled tools could benefit individual’s health in terms of disease prevention and treatment but would also enhance individual’s quality of life and independence. This chapter presents 4 standard validated scales for ADLs and the current research activities on the use of technologies to assess one’s ability to perform ADLs, mainly indoor-outdoor mobility and nutrition. A nutrition assessment use case through a conversational agent is presented in the second part of the chapter. Future opportunities for technology-enabled ADL assessment are discussed.
The Importance of Smartphone Connectivity in Quality of Life
Authors: De Masi Alexandre , Wac Katarzyna
Published: April 2022

Mobile network connectivity enables individuals to use various Internet-based applications and is nowadays an integral part of the physical environment. More specifically, this connectivity shapes individuals’ modes of gathering information and their communication capabilities. In turn, this impacts the individual’s decision-making and, in the long term, may influence their health and quality of life (QoL). This chapter focuses on longitudinal modeling of the availability of mobile connectivity such as Wi-Fi and 3G or 4G for individuals living in the Geneva area (Switzerland). We analyze connectivity over 5 years (2015–2020) based on data collected from 110 mQoL (mobile QoL) Living Lab participants. The participants are from three different cohorts corresponding to distinct data collection periods (2015–2017, 2018–2019, 2020). We derive four features that quantify an individual’s connectivity level: the network access technology (Wi-Fi or cellular), signal strength, the overall data consumption (upload and download), and the participants’ mobility patterns while connected. We also compare the connectivity levels of the three cohorts over time. Our findings reflect the relations between mobile connectivity and the smartphone network activity of the mQoL study cohorts during their daily activities, which may impact their QoL. We summarize the results and conclude this chapter by exploring the different QoL technologies and services enabled by mobile connectivity. However, the effects of connectivity on specific QoL domains, such as psychological aspects (i.e., positive/negative feelings) or social relationships, should be investigated further.
Quantifying Mobility in Quality of Life
Authors: Mayo Nancy E. , Mate Kedar K. V.
Published: April 2022

This chapter provides an overview of the evidence linking mobility to quality of life (QoL). The findings showed that the operationalization of QoL varied across studies covering measures of physical or mental health, general health perception, life satisfaction, participation, illness intrusiveness, health-related QoL (HRQL) and global quality of life. These outcomes are sometimes single items or uni-dimensional constructs and sometimes profile measures, rendering the interpretation of findings in our context difficult. This complexity led to a revelation that one could think of QOL of the person differently from the QoL of the body. QoL of the person is best reflected through global QOL measures including those of life satisfaction whereas QoL of the body is reflected in outcomes related to aspects of function including physical, emotional, or psychological impairments, activity limitations and participation restrictions. This chapter will focus on the general construct of mobility, which is considered an activity limitation, and on the causes of limited mobility, impairments of structures and functions needed for mobility. A distinction is made between the between the person’s QoL and the body’s QoL. While the person’s QOL is best self-expressed, the body’s QOL could be monitored in real-time with the assistance of a growing portfolio of personal, wearable technologies. The chapter ends with thoughts about how QoL of the body, and especially mobility, could be monitored and what that future may look like.
Verteidiger und Entdecker: Zugehörigkeitskonzepte, Bedrohungswahrnehmungen und grundsätzliche politische und gesellschaftliche Einstellungen
Authors: Back Mitja , Echterhoff Gerald , Müller Olaf , Pollack Detlef , Schlipphak Bernd
Published: April 2022

In Kap. 2 stellen wir die Gruppen der Entdecker und Verteidiger ausführlich vor. Mithilfe von Latenten Profilanalysen zeigen wir zunächst, wie sich diese beiden Gruppen über ihre unterschiedlichen Grade an Bedrohungswahrnehmungen und Zugehörigkeitskonzepten ausdifferenzieren. Wir demonstrieren weiterhin, dass diese Gruppen sich auch über unterschiedliche Wahrnehmungen politischer Repräsentation und gesellschaftlicher Marginalisierung auszeichnen. Diese Wahrnehmungen, so zeigen unsere länderübergreifenden Befunde, hängen jedoch vom politischen Kontext eines Landes ab. Im Hinblick auf die gesellschaftliche Prägekraft des Identitätskonflikts als Konfliktlinie demonstrieren wir darüber hinaus, dass sich diese Gruppen auch in ihren soziodemographischen, sozioökonomischen und -kulturellen, religiösen und psychologischen Merkmalen deutlich voneinander unterscheiden.
Häufig gestellte Fragen (FAQ) in der Risikokommunikation zu COVID-19: Erstellung und Bedeutung als interinstitutionelles Krisenreaktionsinstrument
Authors: Seefeld Linda , Frentz Florentine , Horstkötter Nina , Peter Christoph , Dietrich Martin
Published: April 2022

In der Ergänzung des Nationalen Pandemieplans zur Bewältigung der COVID-19-Pandemie ist festgelegt, dass die Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) über die Internetseite www.infektionsschutz.de Informationsmaterial zum Coronavirus SARS-CoV‑2 für die Allgemeinbevölkerung zur Verfügung stellt. Dieses soll insbesondere Antworten auf häufig gestellte Fragen (FAQ) sowie Verhaltensempfehlungen zur Prävention beinhalten.

Dieser Artikel beschreibt, wie die Ad-hoc-Erstellung von Informationsinhalten in Form von FAQ erfolgt und welche Bedeutung diese in der Krisenkommunikation haben. Dabei wird der Wandel der FAQ vom einfachen Informationsangebot zum interinstitutionellen Krisenreaktionsinstrument (Rapid Reaction Tool) im Rahmen einer agilen Kommunikation zum Coronavirus deutlich. Im Sinne einer kongruenten und tagesaktuellen Informationsbereitstellung ist eine enge Zusammenarbeit zwischen den Institutionen erforderlich. Die Arbeits- und Abstimmungsprozesse sowie verschiedene Vorgehensweisen bei der Aktualisierung werden vorgestellt.

Aus den beschriebenen und bewerteten Arbeitsprozessen können theoretische Implikationen für die Krisenkommunikation und das Krisenmanagement – insbesondere die Zusammenarbeit zwischen verschiedenen Institutionen – abgeleitet werden. Auch können sie von anderen Institutionen als Beispiel für „gute Praxis“ aufgegriffen und ggf. weiterentwickelt und auf andere Kontexte übertragen werden.
Deficits in episodic future thinking following acute alcohol consumption
Authors: Elliott Morgan , Terrett Gill , Curran H. Valerie , De Bono Natalie , Rendell Peter G. , Henry Julie D.
Published: April 2022

Rationale

Acute alcohol consumption adversely affects many cognitive abilities, including episodic memory and executive functioning. However, no study to date has tested whether these acute effects of alcohol also extend to episodic future thinking (EFT). This is a surprising omission given that EFT refers to the ability to imagine oneself experiencing the future, a highly adaptive ability that has been implicated in many important functional behaviours. EFT is also thought to impose demands on episodic memory and executive control.

Objectives

The current study was designed to provide the first test of whether a moderate dose of alcohol influences EFT and whether any observed EFT difficulties are secondary to broader problems in episodic memory and executive functioning. Sex differences in EFT following acute alcohol consumption were also examined.

Methods

One hundred and twenty-four healthy adult social drinkers were recruited and randomly assigned to either the alcohol (n = 61) or placebo (n = 63) condition. Participants were administered a dose of 0.6 g/kg alcohol or a matched placebo drink.

Results

Relative to the placebo condition, EFT was impaired by acute alcohol consumption. This impairment was underpinned by broader difficulties with episodic memory, but not executive functioning. There were no sex differences in EFT performance following acute alcohol use.

Conclusion

These data provide novel insights into the effects of acute alcohol consumption on EFT and the broader cognitive mechanisms that contribute to these difficulties. The results are discussed in relation to their implications for understanding many of the maladaptive behaviours commonly associated with acute alcohol use.
Klebsiella pneumoniae Bacteremia is Associated with Higher Mortality in Acute Calculous Cholangitis as Compared to Escherichia coli Bacteremia
Authors: Chan Kai Siang , Shelat Vishal G.
Published: April 2022

Background

Acute cholangitis (AC) is a potentially life‐threatening infection involving the biliary system. The two commonest bacteria involved are Escherichia coli (EC) followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae (KP). Microbiology is a prognostic factor for several pathologies but not for AC. We aim to investigate clinical outcomes between KP bacteremia vs. EC bacteremia in AC.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of patients diagnosed with calculous AC (January–December 2016). Study outcomes include the length of hospitalization stay, in‐hospital mortality, 30‐day, and 90‐day mortality. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to establish correlations.

Results

We included 141 patients (KP (n = 29), EC (n = 112)) with overall median age of 82.2 and similar gender distribution. Most patients had Grade II AC (n = 59, 41.8%). Patient demographics were comparable. KP bacteremia had lower median platelet count (KP:168 × 109/L vs. EC:200 × 109/L; p = 0.025). Overall 30‐day and 90‐day mortality were 9.2 and 10.6%, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed KP bacteremia had higher 30‐day (Odds ratio (OR) 6.09, (95% Confidence Interval (CI):1.27–29.10), p = 0.024) and 90‐day mortality (OR 6.10, 95% CI: 1.39–26.76, p = 0.017). The length of hospitalization stay was comparable. Subgroup analysis of endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram patients showed comparable outcomes.

Conclusion

KP bacteremia is associated with lower platelet count and higher 30‐day and 90‐day mortality than EC. More studies are required to establish if inferior outcomes of KP bacteremia are associated with antimicrobial resistance.
Functional cross-species conservation of guanylate-binding proteins in innate immunity
Authors: Schelle Luca , Côrte-Real João Vasco , Esteves Pedro José , Abrantes Joana , Baldauf Hanna-Mari
Published: April 2022

Guanylate binding proteins (GBPs) represent an evolutionary ancient protein family widely distributed among eukaryotes. They are interferon (IFN)-inducible guanosine triphosphatases that belong to the dynamin superfamily. GBPs are known to have a major role in the cell-autonomous innate immune response against bacterial, parasitic and viral infections and are also involved in inflammasome activation. Evolutionary studies depicted that GBPs present a pattern of gain and loss of genes in each family with several genes pseudogenized and some genes more divergent, indicative for the birth-and-death evolution process. Most species harbor large GBP gene clusters encoding multiple paralogs. Previous functional studies mainly focused on mouse and human GBPs, but more data are becoming available, broadening the understanding of this multifunctional protein family. In this review, we will provide new insights and give a broad overview about GBP evolution, conservation and their roles in all studied species, including plants, invertebrates and vertebrates, revealing how far the described features of GBPs can be transferred to other species.
Is CT-based body composition associated with long-term chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in colorectal cancer survivors?
Authors: Smit Debbie , Mols Floortje , Bonhof Cynthia S. , Bours Martijn J. L. , Vreugdenhil Gerard , Beijer Sandra
Published: April 2022

Background

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common side effect among colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors, and the severity is mainly dependent on the chemotherapy dose. Nowadays, chemotherapy dose is based on body surface area, while determination based on more accurate measures of body composition may be better. This study aimed to investigate the association between body composition and long-term CIPN among CRC survivors 2–11 years after diagnosis.

Methods

Data from CRC survivors from the population-based PROFILES registry were used. Survivors were included when they received chemotherapy, filled in the EORTC QLQ-CIPN20, and had a computed tomography (CT) scan at diagnosis (n = 202). Total, sensory, motor, and autonomic CIPN were based upon the EORTC QLQ-CIPN20. The abdominal CT scans were used to determine skeletal muscle index (SMI), skeletal muscle density (SMD), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT), and total adipose tissue (TAT). Logistic regression was used to analyze the association between CIPN outcomes and body composition variables.

Results

CIPN was experienced by 64% of the CRC survivors several years after chemotherapy. More SAT was associated with a higher odds of reporting total CIPN (OR = 1.01 95% CI 1.00–1.01,p = 0.01), motor CIPN (OR = 1.01 95% CI 1.00–1.01,p = 0.01), and sensory CIPN (OR = 1.01 95% CI 1.00–1.01,p = 0.04). No associations of other body composition parameters with CIPN were observed.

Conclusion

Only SAT was associated with total, motor, and sensory CIPN. Based on these results, we cannot conclude that determining the chemotherapy dose based on body composition is preferred over determining the chemotherapy dose based on body surface to prevent CIPN. More research is needed to assess associations of body composition with CIPN, a common side effect of chemotherapy.
Comprehensive analysis of codon usage pattern in Withania somnifera and its associated pathogens: Meloidogyne incognita and Alternaria alternata
Authors: Chandan Jyoti , Gupta Suruchi , Babu Vikash , Singh Deepika , Singh Ravail
Published: April 2022

Meloidogyne incognita (Root-knot nematode) and Alternaria alternata (fungus) were among the dominant parasites of the medicinal plant Withania somnifera. Despite the fatal nature of their infection, a comprehensive study to explore their evolution and adaptation is lacking. The present study elucidates evolutionary and codon usage bias analysis of W. somnifera (host plant), M. incognita (root-knot nematode) and A. alternata (fungal parasite). The results of the present study revealed a weak codon usage bias prevalent in all the three organisms. Based on the nucleotide analysis, genome of W. somnifera and M. incognita was found to be A-T biased while A. alternata had GC biased genome. We found high similarity of CUB pattern between host and its nematode pathogen as compared to the fungal pathogen. Inclusively, both the evolutionary forces influenced the CUB in host and its associated pathogens. However, neutrality plot indicated the pervasiveness of natural selection on CUB of the host and its pathogens. Correspondence analysis revealed the dominant effect of mutation on CUB of W. somnifera and M. incognita while natural selection was the main force affecting CUB of A. alternata. Taken together the present study would provide some prolific insight into the role of codon usage bias in the adaptability of pathogens to the host’s environment for establishing parasitic relationship.
Assessing the use of land system archetypes to increase regional variability representation in country-specific characterization factors: a soil erosion case study
Authors: Alejandre Elizabeth M. , Guinée Jeroen B. , van Bodegom Peter M.
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The characterization of land use impacts in life cycle assessment (LCA) requires a constant compromise between highly specific impacts models and coarse geographical scales available in life cycle inventory, where most information is provided at country level as the highest degree of geographical specificity. The derivation of country-specific characterization factors is usually done estimating impacts with the use of land cover and potential natural vegetation maps, assuming the most predominant biome per country as representative. This study explores the use of land system archetypes to derive country-specific characterization factors for land use-related soil erosion impacts that can better represent intra-national variations, while accounting for several biogeographical and socioeconomic differences.

Methods

Land use-specific characterization factors were derived as the potentially enhanced soil erosion rate, using the soil erosion rates of each archetype as a reference state, and correction factors to reflect the relative increase or decrease in soil erosion rates associated with each of the eight land use types assessed: forest, permanent crops, grassland, farmland, fallow ground, moorland, urban/industrial, and mining/landfill. Country-specific characterization factors for land use erosion impacts of occupation (in ton/(m2·year)) were calculated by taking into account the land system archetypes present in each country, the land use-specific characterization factors, and the likelihood of each land use type occurring across archetypes (based on rule of thumb expert estimates). The country-specific characterization factors were produced specifically for occupation impacts for each of the eight land use types, and covering 263 countries and territories/dependencies.

Results and discussion

The resulting 2,104 country-specific characterization factors displayed in average a considerably greater variation in comparison with characterization factors produced when only the most predominant archetype per country is assumed as representative per country. The results indicate that world generic values might underestimate up to 10 times the degree of impacts associated with land use types such as permanent crops, fallow ground, mining, and landfill. The use of land system archetypes presents a viable approach to derive country-specific characterization factors while taking into account key intra-national variations, as well as biogeographical and socioeconomic factors.
Applicability of ESMO-MCBS and ESCAT for molecular tumor boards
Authors: Wolff Ladislaia , Kiesewetter Barbara
Published: April 2022

Scoring systems for classifying genomic alterations (GAs) with respect to their potential targeted anticancer therapies (TTs) may be useful for rational and evidence-based decision-making, for example in molecular tumor boards. Therefore, a working group of the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) has developed a comprehensive and reproducible classification score that allows the ranking of GAs and TTs according to their level of evidence and clinical relevance. This score is called the ESMO Scale for Clinical Actionability of Molecular Targets (ESCAT). Another score not explicitly developed for TTs but helpful in grading novel TTs is the ESMO-Magnitude of Clinical Benefit Scale (ESMO-MCBS). This tool was designed to objectively quantify the clinical benefit of novel approved therapies. The current review summarizes the status quo of these scores and their applicability for molecular tumor boards.
Seismic Site Characterization Using Ambient Noise and Earthquake HVSR in the Easternmost Part of Shillong Plateau, India
Authors: Vijayan Athira , Agrawal Mohit , Gupta Ravindra K.
Published: April 2022

This study provides site characterization results using passive seismic techniques for the easternmost part of Shillong plateau of Northeastern India. The prime objective of this research is to generate the Horizontal-to-Vertical Spectral Ratios (HVSR) from earthquakes and ambient microtremor data for generation of 1-D shear wave velocity profiles to reveal the basement depths and fundamental resonance frequencies underneath three stations of Shillong plateau. The earthquake waveforms are recorded for a period of eighteen months (i.e. December 2018 to June 2020) using broadband seismometer; while the ambient microtremor data is collected from a three component highly sensitive velocity meter. The earthquake HVSRs and noise HVSRs are consistent with each other and range from ~3.6 Hz to ~14.5 Hz. The Rayleigh wave ellipticity are generated from the corresponding HVSR curves for inversion to determine compressional and shear wave velocity structure. We report that the compressional and shear wave velocity profiles match fairly well for both earthquakes and ambient microtremor data. Overall, Vs30 lies in the range of 480 m/s to 2600 m/s at all locations in the easternmost part of Shillong plateau; while the sedimentary layer velocity lies between 450 m/s and 1100 m/s. The thickness of the sedimentary layer is assessed from the velocity profiles and using an empirical formula makes a good match and varies from 11.3 m to 31.2 m.
Evaluation of 3D seismic survey design parameters through ray-trace modeling and seismic illumination studies: a case study
Authors: Nagendra Babu M , Baskey Baruneswar , Thota Venkata Giri , Singh Sansar
Published: April 2022

This paper describes a case study of wavefront construction-based ray-trace modeling to access the 3D seismic exploration parameters that significantly impact achieving the exploration target in seismic data acquisition. The traditional methods assessment is based on the horizontal reflector concept, which does not consider the subsurface's inhomogeneities. This case study provides a methodology by considering the effect of subsurface variations on the estimation of seismic survey parameters. As the first step in this methodology, an elastic earth model is created to propagate theoretical seismic rays from a 3D seismic survey to generate seismic ray properties. Then illumination maps and synthetic seismic sections are generated from these seismic ray attributes to evaluate seismic survey performance in seismic imaging targets. The results proved that the method helps estimate seismic survey efficiencies in seismic target imaging. Therefore, the ray-trace modeling methodology can help obtain the target fold coverage in complex geological settings by designing and verifying the seismic survey parameters.
A MINLP model for combination pressurization optimization of shale gas gathering system
Authors: Zhou Jun , Zhang Hao , Li Zelong , Liang Guangchuan
Published: April 2022

The combination pressurization of the shale gas gathering system is one of the most common pressurization methods in the current engineering site, but it is mostly set by manual experience or simulation analysis, and thus the optimal pressurization scheme cannot be obtained. In order to optimize the pressurization mode of the shale gas gathering and transportation system, a mixed integer nonlinear programming model (MINLP) is established based on the existing pressurization mode of the shale gas field. The model takes the minimum total cost of the compressor unit as the objective function. Various constraints are also taken into account, such as pipe pressure, flowrate, compressor related, well and platform throttling, uniqueness for well and platform pressurization. Solving this optimization model can figure out the appropriate pressurization position, operating power, and compressor unit cost. An actual case for a shale gas block is applied to determine the combined pressurization scheme suitable for this production condition. The results show that the combination of more pressurization methods can meet the pressurization requirements under different production conditions. When both well and platform pressurization are considered, the optimized pressurization position is more concentrated, the number of compressors is reduced by two sets, and the total compressor cost is reduced by 99.28 × 104 Yuan, which reflects the advantages of combined pressurization in the pressurization of shale gas gathering and transportation systems.