bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inulin as a Fat-Reduction Ingredient in Pork and Chicken Meatballs: Its Effects on Physicochemical Characteristics and Consumer Perceptions
Authors: Montoya Leidy , Quintero Natalia , Ortiz Stevens , Lopera Juan , Millán Patricia , Rodríguez-Stouvenel Aída
Published: April 2022

Fat reduction in meat products represents a technological challenge, as it affects the physicochemical and sensory properties of foods. The objective of the present investigation was to develop reduced-fat pork and chicken meatballs. In the initial stage, a survey was performed on 387 individuals, in order to determine the consumer perception of the meaning of a healthy meatball and the likelihood that they would consume such a product. In the second stage, four pork and chicken meatball formulations were developed: control meatballs (AC), meatballs with inulin (AI), meatballs with fructo-oligosaccharides (AF), and meatballs with inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides (AM). In the third stage, physicochemical properties were evaluated (water activity, humidity, fat, protein, ash, weight loss, pH, color, and texture) and a sensorial profile was created with semi-trained panelists for the four meatball formulations. In the fourth stage, AI was selected as the meatball with sensorial and physicochemical characteristics most similar to AC. An analysis of nutritional characteristics and a home test (84 consumers) were performed. The present study established that the inclusion of inulin as a fat substitute in the preparation of pork and chicken meatballs, in the amount of 3.5 g of fiber/100 g of the mixture, imitates the technological properties characteristic of fat and showed acceptance by consumers.
Phenolic Compounds Recovery from Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) By-Products of Pressurized Liquid Extraction
Authors: Toledo-Merma Pamela R. , Cornejo-Figueroa Marianné H. , Crisosto-Fuster Anabel d. R. , Strieder Monique M. , Chañi-Paucar Larry O. , Náthia-Neves Grazielle , Rodríguez-Papuico Héctor , Rostagno Mauricio A. , A. Meireles Maria Angela , Alcázar-Alay Sylvia C.
Published: April 2022

This study aimed to valorize pomegranate by-products (peel and carpelar membranes—PPCM) through their high biological potential for phenolic compounds recovery. The influence of lower temperatures (40 and 60 °C) and pressures (20, 40, 60, 80, and 100 bar) than those generally used in pressurized liquid extraction (PLE) was evaluated through global extraction yield (X0), and qualitative and quantitative composition of the phenolic compounds. Chromatographic techniques were used to analyze the two treatments with the highest X0. Temperature, pressure, and their interaction had a significant influence on X0. The best phenolic compounds extraction conditions were using pressurized ethanol at 60 °C and 40 bar (extract 1—E1, 37% on d.b.) and 60 °C and 80 bar (extract 2—E2, 45% on d.b.). Nevertheless, E1 presented a significantly higher content of α, β punicalagin, and ellagic acid (48 ± 2, 146 ± 11, and 25.6 ± 0.3 mg/100 g, respectively) than E2 (40 ± 2, 126 ± 4, and 22.7 ± 0.3 mg/100 g). Therefore, this study could validate the use of low pressures and temperatures in PLE to recover phenolic compounds from pomegranate residues, making this process more competitive and sustainable for the pomegranate industry.
Post-Trauma Combined Pulmonary Fat and Bone Embolism: Literature Review with Case Presentation
Authors: Sablone Sara , Cazzato Gerardo , Spagnolo Lorenzo , Berterame Caterina , Mele Federica , Introna Francesco , Di Fazio Aldo
Published: April 2022

Following an accident in the workplace, a man received deep wounds in his left groin and left lower limb caused by plow blades. An external examination was carried out showing multiple, large, and deep slash injuries of the scrotal region, the left groin, and the left thigh. A complete autopsy was performed. The gross examination of the lungs showed edema and congestion, with some areas of parenchymal contusion and wide emphysema. The left femur showed complete, comminuted, displaced, and exposed fracture of its diaphyseal tract. Histopathological analysis was then carried out, showing unusual abnormalities in both lungs, with numerous endovascular drop-shaped fat globules with surrounding hematopoietic marrow that were mixed with small bone particles. The other organs did not show any signs that could explain the death. Given macroscopic and histopathological elements, the cause of death was ultimately identified as a traumatic shock with a high hemorrhagic component combined with pulmonary bone marrow and bone embolism. This paper aims to outline a rare case of post-trauma combined bone and bone marrow embolism. This occurrence is scantly described in the literature and should be considered in major trauma deaths. Therefore, in such cases, an accurate histopathological analysis should be mandatory to identify the correct cause of death and evaluate a possible medical liability.
Design and Experimental Results of an Adaptive Fractional-Order Controller for a Quadrotor
Authors: Timis Daniel D. , Muresan Cristina I. , Dulf Eva-H.
Published: April 2022

The use of multi-copter systems started to grow over the last years in various applications. The designed solutions require high stability and maneuverability. To fulfill these specifications, a robust control strategy must be designed and integrated. Focusing on this challenge, this research proposes an adaptive control design applied to a physical model of a quadrotor prototype. The proposed adaptive structure guarantees robustness, control flexibility, and stability to the whole process. The prototype components, structure, and laboratory testing equipment that are used to run the experiments are presented in this paper. The study is focused on the performance comparison of a classical PID controller and a fractional-order controller, which are both integrated into the adaptive scheme. Fractional-order controllers are preferred due to their recognized ability to increase the robustness of the overall closed-loop system. Furthermore, this work covers the design and the tuning method of this control approach. The research concludes with the actual results obtained for this comparative study that highlights the advantages of the fractional-order controller.
Numerical Analysis of Local Discontinuous Galerkin Method for the Time-Fractional Fourth-Order Equation with Initial Singularity
Authors: Wang Zhen
Published: April 2022

In this paper, efficient methods seeking the numerical solution of a time-fractional fourth-order differential equation with Caputo’s derivative are derived. The solution of such a problem has a weak singularity near the initial time t=0. The Caputo time-fractional derivative with derivative order α∈(0,1) is discretized by the well-known L1 formula on nonuniform meshes; for the spatial derivative, the local discontinuous Galerkin (LDG) finite element method is used. Based on the discrete fractional Gronwall’s inequality, we prove the stability of the proposed scheme and the optimal error estimate for the solution, i.e., (2−α)-order accurate in time and (k+1)-order accurate in space, when piece-wise polynomials of degree at most k are used. Moreover, a second-order and nonuniform time-stepping scheme is developed for the fractional model. The scheme uses the L2-1σ formula for the time fractional derivative and the LDG method for the space approximation. The stability and temporal optimal second-order convergence of the scheme are also shown. Finally, some numerical experiments are presented to confirm the theoretical results.
Weighted Fractional Calculus: A General Class of Operators
Authors: Fernandez Arran , Fahad Hafiz Muhammad
Published: April 2022

We conduct a formal study of a particular class of fractional operators, namely weighted fractional calculus, and its extension to the more general class known as weighted fractional calculus with respect to functions. We emphasise the importance of the conjugation relationships with the classical Riemann–Liouville fractional calculus, and use them to prove many fundamental properties of these operators. As examples, we consider special cases such as tempered, Hadamard-type, and Erdélyi–Kober operators. We also define appropriate modifications of the Laplace transform and convolution operations, and solve some ordinary differential equations in the setting of these general classes of operators.
Deregulated Clusterin as a Marker of Bone Fragility: New Insights into the Pathophysiology of Osteoporosis
Authors: Visconti Virginia Veronica , Greggi Chiara , Cariati Ida , Gasperini Beatrice , Mastrogregori Ambra , Botta Annalisa , Tarantino Umberto
Published: April 2022

Clusterin (CLU) is a secreted heterodimeric glycoprotein expressed in all organism fluids as well as in the intracellular matrix that plays key roles in several pathological processes. Its recent involvement in muscle degeneration of osteoporotic patients led to investigation of the role of CLU in bone metabolism, given the biochemical and biomechanical crosstalk of the bone–muscle unit. Quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis of CLU expression was performed in both osteoblasts and Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) from osteoporotic patients (OP) and healthy individuals (CTR). Furthermore, immunohistochemical analysis on femoral head tissues and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in plasma samples were performed to investigate CLU expression pattern. Finally, genotyping of CLU rs11136000 polymorphism has also been performed by qRT-PCR assays to explore a possible association with CLU expression levels. Data obtained showed a significantly increased expression level of secreted CLU isoform in PBMCs and osteoblasts from OP patients. Immunohistochemical analysis confirms the increased expression of CLU in OP patients, both in osteocytes and osteoblasts, while plasma analysis reveals a statistically significant decrease of CLU levels. Unfortunately, no functional association between CLU expression levels and the presence of CLU rs11136000 polymorphism in OP patients was found. These data suggest a potential role played by CLU as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of OP progression.
Network Pharmacology-Based Approach Combined with Bioinformatic Analytics to Elucidate the Potential of Curcumol against Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Xufeng , Rehman Hafiz Muzzammel , Szöllősi Attila Gábor , Zhou Shujing
Published: April 2022

Purpose: Modern, open-source databases provide an unprecedented wealth of information to help drug development. By combining data available in these databases with the proper bioinformatical tools, we can elucidate the molecular targets of natural compounds. One such molecule is curcumol, a guaiane-type sesquiterpenoid hemiketal isolated from Rhizoma Curcumae, which is used for a broad range of diseases in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine. It has been reported to exert anti-tumor activity, but the intrinsic molecular mechanism in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is unclear. Therefore, the present study was designed to reveal the predictive targets and biological mechanisms of curcumol against HCC via a network pharmacology-based approach combined with bioinformatic analytics and to provide proof of concept for further similar investigations. Methods: Data available from open-source databases (Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology, Comparative Toxicogenomic Database, The Cancer Genome Atlas, the Human Protein Atlas project) was processed with the help of a variety of open-source tools (SwissADME, SwissTargetPrediction, JVenn, Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, GeneMANIA, Cytoscape). Results: In the present study, the potential of curcumol against HCC was unraveled by network pharmacology-based elucidation. It suggests that curcumol shows exciting druggability with 44 potent homo sapiens biotargets against HCC. The GO terms and KEGG pathways enrichment analyses, curcumol-targets-pathways-HCC network, PPI network, and corresponding in-depth topological analyses, as well as survival analysis, molecular docking simulation indicate that the potential mechanism of curcumol against HCC is complicated, as it may act in various ways, mainly by inducing apoptosis and modulating the inflammatory response, increasing presentation of HCC-specific protein. Conclusion: The present study highlights the potential of curcumol against HCC, giving reference to further experimental study. It also presents a roadmap that can be followed to conduct in silico prescreening of other compounds of interest.
Extremity Exercise Program in Breast Cancer Survivors Suffering from Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy: A Feasibility Pilot Study
Authors: Wu Chih-Jung , Chan Ya-Ning , Yen Li-Yu , Chen Yun-Hen , Lo Chyi , Tseng Ling-Ming , Wang Ya-Jung
Published: April 2022

Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility of implementation of an extremity exercise program and to examine its preliminary effects in breast cancer survivors suffering from chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Sample & Setting: Thirteen breast cancer survivors from one hospital in northern Taiwan. Methods and Variables: A single group with repeated measures, and a quasi-experimental design. The intervention program was a four week, home-based extremity exercise program that was comprised of 10 skilled hand exercises and Buerger-Allen exercises. The Total Neuropathy Scale (clinical version), Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy/Gynecologic Oncology Group, Neurotoxicity (13-Item Version), Identification Pain Questionnaire, and pain Visual Analogue Scale were used to measure CIPN before exercise (T1), during (T2~T4), and after exercise (T5). Qualitative data were also collected at each time point. Data were analyzed by using descriptive statistics, generalized estimating equations, and directed content analysis. Results: None of the participants reported adverse events during the study period. The extremity exercise program significantly improved patient-reported CIPN after intervention at T4 or T5 but was insignificant on clinician-assessed CIPN. The qualitative data of participant experience indicated that this program is feasible and easy to follow. Conclusion: The extremity exercise program is feasible but needs to increase the sample size and prolong the intervention period for confirmation.
Interactive Video Games as a Method to Increase Physical Activity Levels in Children Treated for Leukemia
Authors: Kowaluk Aleksandra , Woźniewski Marek
Published: April 2022

Despite the beneficial effect of exercise, children treated for cancer do not engage in sufficient physical activity. It is necessary to search for attractive forms of physical activity, including interactive video games (IVGs). The aim of this study was to verify the effectiveness of the rehabilitation model developed by the authors based on the use of IVGs in children undergoing leukemia treatment. The study included a group of 21 children aged 7–13 years (12 boys, 9 girls) undergoing treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) (n = 13) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) (n = 8). The children were randomly assigned to an intervention group and a control group. To assess the level of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF), each child participated in a Cardiopulmonary Exercise Test. Daily physical activity was assessed using the HBSC questionnaire. The study also used the Children’s Effort Rating Table Scale (CERT) to assess the intensity of physical effort. The children in the intervention group participated in 12 sessions of. The study participants managed to complete all stages of a progressive training program, which confirmed the feasibility of such physical effort by patients with cancer. Pediatric patients reported that the IVG training required a light to moderate physical effort despite high values of energy expenditure (EE).
In-Season Microcycle Quantification of Professional Women Soccer Players—External, Internal and Wellness Measures
Authors: Fernandes Renato , Ceylan Halil İbrahim , Clemente Filipe Manuel , Brito João Paulo , Martins Alexandre Duarte , Nobari Hadi , Reis Victor Machado , Oliveira Rafael
Published: April 2022

Although data currently exists pertaining to the intensity in the women’s football match, the knowledge about training is still scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to quantify external (locomotor activity) and internal (psychophysiological) intensities, as well as the wellness profile of the typical microcycle from professional female soccer players during the 2019/20 in-season. Ten players (24.6 ± 2.3 years) from an elite Portuguese women soccer team participated in this study. All variables were collected in 87 training session and 15 matches for analysis from the 2019–2020 in-season. Global positioning variables such total distance, high-speed running, acceleration, deceleration and player load were recorded as intensity while Rated Perceived Exertion (RPE) and session-RPE were recorded as internal measures. The Hooper Index (HI) was collected as a wellness parameter. The results showed that internal and external intensity measures were greater in matches compared to trainings during the week (match day minus [MD-], MD-5, MD-4, MD-2), p < 0.05 with very large effect size (ES). In the same line, higher internal and external intensity values were found in the beginning of the week while the lowest values were found in MD-2 (p < 0.05, with very large ES). Regarding wellness, there was no significant differences in the HI parameters between the training days and match days (p > 0.05). This study confirmed the highest intensity values during MD and the lowest on the training session before the MD (MD-2). Moreover, higher training intensities were found in the beginning of the training week sessions which were then reduced when the MD came close. Wellness parameters showed no variation when compared to intensity measures. This study confirmed the hypothesis regarding internal and external intensity but not regarding wellness.
Archaeometric Study of Two Tanagra Type Statuettes of Unknown Provenance to Support Forensic Study
Authors: Ricca Michela , Albanese Maria Pia , Alberghina Maria Francesca , Schiavone Salvatore , La Russa Mauro Francesco , Taliano Grasso Armando , Randazzo Luciana
Published: April 2022

This paper is concerned with a morphological-stylistic and archaeometric study of two small pottery statues, confiscated by the Cosenza Carabinieri Unit for the Protection of Cultural Heritage and Anti-Counterfeiting (Calabria, Italy). The research aimed to establish the authenticity of the artworks and to verify a possible origin from the same workshop manufacturing, by providing indications about the textural features and raw materials used for their production. For these purposes, the analytical approach involved the use of minero-petrographic and physical analysis, as follows: petrographic analysis (OM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermoluminescence tests (TL). The preliminary observation, which highlights differences in the stylistic features of the two statuettes as well as in the color, morphology and distribution of the white-greyish patina, is further confirmed by the TL investigations. The TL test revealed an ancient production only for one of the analyzed finds and the investigations on the raw materials allowed to relate this to a possible local historical-artistic context. The second statuette, on the other hand, is attributable to a modern production as confirmed by TL measurement.
Parameter Optimization of the Harvest Method in the Standardized Hedge Cultivation Mode of Lycium barbarum Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Chen Qingyu , Zhang Shixia , Hu Guangrui , Zhou Jianguo , Zhao Jian , Chen Yu , Chen Jun , Gao Sen , Chen Yun , Shi Tengfei
Published: April 2022

In a previously published study, to optimize the vibrating and comb-brushing harvesting, the main factors and their parameter values were obtained based on the FEM and RSM. However, the study was based on the extensive cultivation mode which need to be improve. To realize the mechanization of the harvesting of Lycium barbarum L., as well as to face the standardized hedge cultivation mode, a vibrating and comb-brushing harvester machine was designed, which was primarily composed of an execution system, a motion system, and a control system. The mathematical model between the harvest effect index and the operation parameters was established based on response surface methodology (RSM). The effects of various parameters on the harvest index were analyzed, and the best parameter combination was determined: a vibration frequency of 38.73 Hz, a brush speed of 14.21 mm/s, and an insertion depth of 26.07 mm. The field experiment showed that the harvesting rate of ripe fruit was 83.65%, the harvesting rate of unripe fruit was 7.22%, the damage rate of the ripe fruit was 11.49%, and the comprehensive picking index was 87.85. The findings provided a reference for the development of L. barbarum harvesting mechanization in a standardized hedge cultivation mode.
Metabolic Profiling of White and Green Radish Cultivars (Raphanus sativus)
Authors: Park Chang Ha , Ki Wooyeal , Kim Nam Su , Park Soo-Yun , Kim Jae Kwang , Park Sang Un
Published: April 2022

Radish (Raphanus sativus) is a Brassica vegetable important for human nutrition and health because it is rich in diverse metabolites. Although previous studies have evaluated various metabolites, few studies have comprehensively profiled the primary and secondary metabolites in the roots of white- and green-colored radishes. Thus, this study aimed to provide information about the contents of metabolites beneficial for human health in both cultivars and to investigate the relationships between the various metabolites detected. In particular, among the 55 metabolites detected in radish roots, the levels of most amino acids and phenolic acids, vital to nutrition and health, were higher in green radish roots, while slightly higher levels of glucosinolates were observed in white radish roots—information which can be used to develop an effective strategy to promote vegetable consumption. Furthermore, glutamic acid, as a metabolic precursor of amino acids and chlorophylls, was positively correlated with other amino acids (cysteine, tryptophan, asparagine, alanine, serine, phenylalanine, valine, isoleucine, proline, leucine, beta-alanine, lysine, and GABA), and chlorophylls (chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b) detected in radish roots and phenylalanine, a metabolic precursor of phenolic compounds, were positively correlated with kaempferol, 4-hydroxybenzoate, and catechin. In addition, strong positive correlations between carbohydrates (sucrose and glucose) and phenolics were observed in this study, indicating that sucrose and glucose function as energy sources for phenolic compounds.
Physical and Sociocultural Community-Level Influences on Cigar Smoking among Black Young Adults: An In-Depth Interview Investigation
Authors: Broun Aaron , Phan Lilianna , Duarte Danielle A. , Ajith Aniruddh , Jewett Bambi , Mead-Morse Erin L. , Choi Kelvin , Chen-Sankey Julia
Published: April 2022

Black young adults experience disparately high rates of cigar use and its health consequences. Little research has explored community-level influences on cigar smoking in this population, especially concerning product-specific influences and cigar smokers’ perceptions. We conducted in-depth interviews with 40 Black young adult (ages 21–29) cigar smokers in the Washington, D.C. area and analyzed themes regarding physical and sociocultural community-level factors perceived to influence cigar use. Themes were further analyzed based on participants’ predominant cigar products (cigarillos, large cigars, blunts). Participants reported easy access to affordable cigarillos, widespread cigarillo sales and targeted marketing, norms of cigar and blunt smoking for stress relief, socialization, and cultural participation, and ubiquitous cigar and blunt smoking cues, all of which promoted cigar use in their communities. Future research should further explore how community-level influences contribute to disproportionate cigar use among Black young adults. Our findings suggest that programs and policies addressing physical and sociocultural community-level pro-smoking influences may help mitigate cigar smoking disparities.
Do Leadership, Organizational Communication, and Work Environment Impact Employees’ Psychosocial Hazards in the Oil and Gas Industry?
Authors: Naji Gehad Mohammed Ahmed , Isha Ahmad Shahrul Nizam , Alazzani Abdulsamad , Brough Paula , Saleem Muhammad Shoaib , Mohyaldinn Mysara Eissa , Alzoraiki Mohammed
Published: April 2022

Workplace hazards can have a significant influence on a worker’s physical and mental health, reducing an organization’s effectiveness in terms of safety. However, psychosocial hazards are being recognized as a crucial component that must be addressed for the individual’s and organization’s safety. The purpose of this research was to propose and statistically evaluate a brief theoretical framework based on leadership, organizational communication, work environment, and psychosocial hazards in Malaysia’s upstream oil and gas sector. The framework was tested on 380 Malaysian upstream oil and gas workers. The collected data were analyzed using partial least squares and structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). The study’s findings revealed that in the Malaysian oil and gas industry, leadership, communication, and work environment negatively influenced the psychosocial hazards. This negative association between predictors and psychosocial hazards, particularly job expectations, control, role, and relationships, indicates new grounds for research. It is discussed how the findings could be used to track employees’ well-being over time and generate focused treatments.
Evaluation of a Tobacco Treatment Training Program
Authors: Wiener R. Constance , Swager Lauren W. , Gaydos Melissa Suann , Morgan Susan K.
Published: April 2022

There is a need for program evaluations associated with educating healthcare professionals about the treatment of patients who use tobacco. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a Tobacco Treatment Specialist Training program with a pre-test and post-test (provided six months after the program) to determine if participants-maintained knowledge and practices to help patients with tobacco cessation in a mixed-model analysis. A pre-test survey was administered to attendees of a three-day tobacco treatment training continuing education certification program. After 6 months, the attendees were provided a post-test survey with open-ended and Likert-style questions. There were 98 participants who completed the pre-test and 16 who completed the post-test. Responses to the knowledge, confidence, and skills post-test indicated that there was significant improvement and maintenance at the six-month post-test. For example, knowledge improved from a mean of 61.1% (SD: 25.6%) to a mean of 87.9% (SD: 14.4%); medians of 66.7% and 77.7%, respectively, p < 0.001. The in-depth, intensive, three-day TTS training program had a lasting impact. Providers reported greater commitment to helping their patients quit and maintain tobacco cessation habits.
Spatial Distribution and Migration Characteristics of Heavy Metals in Grassland Open-Pit Coal Mine Dump Soil Interface
Authors: Cai Zhen , Lei Shaogang , Zhao Yibo , Gong Chuangang , Wang Weizhong , Du Changchun
Published: April 2022

The open-pit coal mine dump in the study area contains many low-concentration heavy metal pollutants, which may cause pollution to the soil interface. Firstly, statistical analysis and geostatistical spatial interpolation methods described heavy metal pollution’s spatial distribution. The mine dump heavy metal pollution distribution is strongly random due to disorderly piles, but it is closely related to slope soil erosion. Furthermore, the soil deposition area is where pollutants accumulate. For example, all heavy metal elements converge at the bottom of the dump. Usually, the pollution in the lower part is higher than that in the upper part; the pollution in the lower step is higher than the upper step; the pollution in the soil deposition locations such as flat plate and slope bottom is higher than the soil erosion locations such as slope tip and middle slope. Finally, the hyperspectral remote sensing method described heavy metals pollution’s migration characteristics, that the pollutants could affect the soil interface by at least 1 km. This study provides a basis for preventing and controlling critical parts of mine dump heavy metal pollution and pollution path control.
Bayesian Hierarchical Modelling of Historical Data of the South African Coal Mining Industry for Compliance Testing
Authors: Made Felix , Kandala Ngianga-Bakwin , Brouwer Derk
Published: April 2022

Bayesian hierarchical framework for exposure data compliance testing is highly recommended in occupational hygiene. However, it has not been used for coal dust exposure compliance testing in South Africa (SA). The Bayesian analysis incorporates prior information, which increases solid decision making regarding risk management. This study compared the posterior 95th percentile (P95) of the Bayesian non-informative and informative prior from historical data relative to the occupational exposure limit (OEL) and exposure categories, and the South African Mining Industry Code of Practice (SAMI CoP) approach. A total of nine homogenous exposure groups (HEGs) with a combined 243 coal mine workers’ coal dust exposure data were included in this study. Bayesian framework with Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) simulation to draw a full P95 posterior distribution relative to the OEL was used to investigate compliance. We obtained prior information from historical data and employed non-informative prior distribution to generate the posterior findings. The findings were compared to the SAMI CoP. The SAMI CoP 90th percentile (P90) indicated that one HEG was compliant (below the OEL), while none of the HEGs in the Bayesian methods were compliant. The analysis using non-informative prior indicated a higher variability of exposure than the informative prior according to the posterior GSD. The median P95 from the non-informative prior were slightly lower with wider 95% credible intervals (CrI) than the informative prior. All the HEGs in both Bayesian approaches were in exposure category four (poorly controlled), with the posterior probabilities slightly lower in the non-informative uniform prior distribution. All the methods mainly indicated non-compliance from the HEGs. The non-informative prior, however, showed a possible potential of allocating HEGs to a lower exposure category, but with high uncertainty compared to the informative prior distribution from historical data. Bayesian statistics with informative prior derived from historical data should be highly encouraged in coal dust overexposure assessments in South Africa for correct decision making.
Comparison of Patient Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Systems in Nine Selected Countries
Authors: Worakunphanich Wiwan , Youngkong Sitaporn , Suwankesawong Wimon , Anderson Claire , Thavorncharoensap Montarat
Published: April 2022

Patients are recognized as important players in the pharmacovigilance system. This study aims to describe and compare the characteristics of patient reporting systems, reporting forms, awareness raising-activities, and the statistics related to patient reporting in the selected countries. Fifteen countries (eight Western countries and seven Asian countries) were purposively selected. A questionnaire survey was distributed to national pharmacovigilance authorities in those countries. Nine countries (five Western countries and four Asian countries) returned the questionnaire. A review of the websites of national pharmacovigilance centres was conducted. The proportion of patient reports in the selected Western countries ranged from 57.83% to 14.37%, while it was accounted for less than 1% in the selected Asian countries. Currently, patients in all nine countries can report adverse drug reactions online via a website. The number of clicks from the national pharmacovigilance website to reach the online reporting form range from one to five clicks. Countries with higher patient reporting rates seemed to share the following characteristics; provision of feedback, engagement with patient organizations, and implementation of several activities to raise the awareness of the general public on the importance of pharmacovigilance. To increase the number of patient reports, the strengths of each country’s system should be adopted.
Bringing Parent–Child Interaction Therapy to South Africa: Barriers and Facilitators and Overall Feasibility—First Steps to Implementation
Authors: Dawson-Squibb John-Joe , Davids Eugene Lee , Chase Rhea , Puffer Eve , Rasmussen Justin D. M. , Franz Lauren , de Vries Petrus J.
Published: April 2022

There is a large assessment and treatment gap in child and adolescent mental health services, prominently so in low- and middle-income countries, where 90% of the world’s children live. There is an urgent need to find evidence-based interventions that can be implemented successfully in these low-resource contexts. This pre-pilot study aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators to implementation as well as overall feasibility of Parent–Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) in South Africa. A reflective and consensus building workshop was used to gather South African PCIT therapist (N = 4) perspectives on barriers, facilitators, and next steps to implementation in that country. Caregiver participants (N = 7) receiving the intervention in South Africa for the first time were also recruited to gather information on overall feasibility. Facilitators for implementation, including its strong evidence base, manualisation, and training model were described. Barriers relating to sustainability and scalability were highlighted. Largely positive views on acceptability from caregiver participants also indicated the promise of PCIT as an intervention in South Africa. Pilot data on the efficacy of the treatment for participating families are a next step. These initial results are positive, though research on how implementation factors contribute to the longer-term successful dissemination of PCIT in complex, heterogeneous low-resource settings is required.
Modulating Elements of Nurse Resilience in Population Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Sierra-García Ester , Sosa-Palanca Eva María , Saus-Ortega Carlos , Ruiz-Hontangas Antonio , Juárez-Vela Raúl , Gea-Caballero Vicente
Published: April 2022

COVID-19 has significantly affected the work environment of nurses. In the face of the challenges posed by stressors in clinical practice, some nurses adapt and prove to be resilient. In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, the nature of care itself and the new ways of working are potentially very stressful. We aim to analyze the resilience of care nurses to the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study is a systematic review of nurse caregiver resilience to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. Our search was conducted in the WOS, Medline/PubMed, Cochrane, BVS/LILACS, and Cuiden databases. The inclusion criteria were: studies published in Spanish or English; carried out from March 2020 to May 2021 on nurses caring for patients with COVID-19; and investigating the factors influencing the psychological impact, resilience, strategies to develop it, and interventions to promote it during this pandemic and others, such as SARS, MERS, or ebola. The quality of the studies and the risk of bias were evaluated following ICROMS, STROBE and AMSTAR-2 criteria. Twenty-two studies were selected. Most of the studies highlighted the presence of stressors in nurses, emphasizing those of the environment, which converged in dysfunctional responses that hurt their resilience. The most persuasive factors were social and organizational support. Coping strategies developed by nurses and especially interventions by organizations were detected as instruments to foster resilience, but have not been well researched. Resilience has a key moderating role in mitigating the psychological impact of nurses in the face of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Comparison of the Toxicological Effects of Pesticides in Non-Tumorigenic MCF-12A and Tumorigenic MCF-7 Human Breast Cells
Authors: Coppola Lucia , Tait Sabrina , Fabbrizi Enrica , Perugini Monia , La Rocca Cinzia
Published: April 2022

Humans are exposed to residues of organophosphate and neonicotinoid pesticides, commonly used in agriculture. Children are particularly vulnerable and, among possible adverse outcomes, the increased incidence of premature mammary gland development (thelarche) has raised concern. We evaluated the toxicological effects of chlorpyrifos (CPF), imidacloprid (IMI) and glyphosate (GLY) at exposure concentrations occurring in children on the tumorigenic MCF-7 and non-tumorigenic MCF-12A breast cell lines, as representative of the target organ model, assessing cytotoxicity, apoptosis, necrosis, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ATP levels, 17β-estradiol secretion and gene expression of nuclear receptors involved in mammary gland development. The pesticides decreased cell vitality in MCF-7 and cell proliferation in MCF-12A cells. ATP levels were decreased in MCF-7 cells by pesticides and apoptosis was increased in MCF-12A cells only by GLY (2.3 nM). ROS production was decreased by pesticides in both cell lines, except IMI (1.6 nM) in MCF-7 cells. Endocrine disrupting activity was highlighted by induction of 17β-estradiol secretion and modulation of the gene expression of estrogen alpha and beta, progesterone, androgen, and aryl hydrocarbon receptors in both cell lines. The use of MCF-7 and MCF-12A cells highlighted dissimilar modes of action of each pesticide at low human relevant concentrations.
Investigating Predictors of Psychological Distress for Healthcare Workers in a Major Saudi COVID-19 Center
Authors: Alyami Hussain , Krägeloh Christian U. , Medvedev Oleg N. , Alghamdi Saleh , Alyami Mubarak , Althagafi Jamal , Lyndon Mataroria , Hill Andrew G.
Published: April 2022

This study investigated the relationship between fear of COVID-19, previous exposure to COVID-19, perceived vulnerability to disease, sleep quality, and psychological distress among healthcare workers (HCWs) in Taif city in Saudi Arabia, which has a population of 702,000 people. A cross-sectional study design was adopted. HCWs (n = 202) completed a survey containing the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S), Perceived Vulnerability to Disease (PVD), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). FCV-19S and sleep quality were significant predictors for psychological distress. Female gender was a significant predictor for depression and stress. Single, divorced, and widowed marital status were predictive for anxiety. FCV-19S was weakly correlated with PVD but moderately with depression, anxiety, and stress. Of the two PVD subscales, perceived infectability was weakly correlated with psychological distress. PVD and previous experience with COVID-19 were not significant predictors. Sleep quality and FCV-19S were major predictors of psychological distress. Findings indicated that poor sleep quality was strongly associated with psychological distress, while fear of COVID-19 had a moderate association. Such results support the need to design and implement psychological programs to assist HCWs in dealing with the psychological impact of this ongoing pandemic.
Influential Nodes Identification in the Air Pollution Spatial Correlation Weighted Networks and Collaborative Governance: Taking China’s Three Urban Agglomerations as Examples
Authors: Guo Feipeng , Wang Zifan , Ji Shaobo , Lu Qibei
Published: April 2022

Nowadays, driven by green and low-carbon development, accelerating the innovation of joint prevention and control system of air pollution and collaborating to reduce greenhouse gases has become the focus of China’s air pollution prevention and control during the “Fourteenth Five-Year Plan” period (2021–2025). In this paper, the air quality index (AQI) data of 48 cities in three major urban agglomerations of Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, Pearl River Delta and Yangtze River Delta, were selected as samples. Firstly, the air pollution spatial correlation weighted networks of three urban agglomerations are constructed and the overall characteristics of the networks are analyzed. Secondly, an influential nodes identification method, local-and-global-influence for weighted network (W_LGI), is proposed to identify the influential cities in relatively central positions in the networks. Then, the study area is further focused to include influential cities. This paper builds the air pollution spatial correlation weighted network within an influential city to excavate influential nodes in the city network. It is found that these influential nodes are most closely associated with the other nodes in terms of spatial pollution, and have a certain ability to transmit pollutants to the surrounding nodes. Finally, this paper puts forward policy suggestions for the prevention and control of air pollution from the perspective of the spatial linkage of air pollution. These will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of air pollution prevention and control, jointly achieve green development and help achieve the “carbon peak and carbon neutrality” goals.
Perceptions and Representations of Senior Nursing Students about the Transition to Professional Life during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Castro Cidália , Antunes Ricardo , Fernandes Júlio Belo , Reisinho João , Rodrigues Rita , Sardinha João , Vaz Célia , Miranda Luís , Simões Aida
Published: April 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic caused disruptions in education systems worldwide. The suspension of face-to-face lectures and clinical placements directly impacted nursing students’ learning. This study aimed to identify the perceptions and representations of senior nursing students about the transition to professional life during the COVID-19 pandemic. This descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study used a web-based survey from a convenience sample of 162 senior nursing students, from nine different nursing schools. Data collection was carried out in the second quarter of 2020. Male students have more negative representations related to training (p = 0.048); working students have a better perspective of professional integration (p = 0.038); students who are in a relationship have a more positive perception of interaction with patients (p = 0.047); those who have already defined a service of choice have less insecurity and less fear of making mistakes (p = 0.043). Those who report anxiety about their first place of work have more negative representations about the future in other professional dimensions. The COVID-19 pandemic represents a frequent concern among students. However, it is a dimension that does not negatively contaminate other representations about the professional future. Overall, students showed concerns regarding their performance in providing direct care to the patient and lived up to their fellow nurses’ expectations.
A Nurse-Led Integrated Chronic Care E-Enhanced Atrial Fibrillation (NICE-AF) Clinic in the Community: A Preliminary Evaluation
Authors: Woo Brigitte Fong Yeong , Tam Wilson Wai San , Rangpa Taiju , Liau Wei Fong , Nathania Jennifer , Lim Toon Wei
Published: April 2022

The current physician-centric model of care is not sustainable for the rising tide of atrial fibrillation. The integrated model of care has been recommended for managing atrial fibrillation. This study aims to provide a preliminary evaluation of the effectiveness of a Nurse-led Integrated Chronic care E-enhanced Atrial Fibrillation (NICE-AF) clinic in the community. The NICE-AF clinic was led by an advanced practice nurse (APN) who collaborated with a family physician. The clinic embodied integrated care and shifted from hospital-based, physician-centric care. Regular patient education, supplemented by a specially curated webpage, fast-tracked appointments for hospital-based specialised investigations, and teleconsultation with a hospital-based cardiologist were the highlights of the clinic. Forty-three participants were included in the six-month preliminary evaluation. No significant differences were observed in cardiovascular hospitalisations (p-value = 0.102) and stroke incidence (p-value = 1.00) after attending the NICE-AF clinic. However, significant improvements were noted for AF-specific QoL (p = 0.001), AF knowledge (p < 0.001), medication adherence (p = 0.008), patient satisfaction (p = 0.020), and depression (p = 0004). The preliminary evaluation of the NICE-AF clinic demonstrated the clinical utility of this new model of integrated care in providing safe and effective community-based AF care. Although a full evaluation is pending, the preliminary results highlighted its promising potential to be expanded into a permanent, larger-scale service.
Hydraulic Safety Evaluation and Dynamic Investigations of Baghetto Bridge in Italy
Authors: D’Angelo Manuel , Menghini Alessandro , Borlenghi Paolo , Bernardini Lorenzo , Benedetti Lorenzo , Ballio Francesco , Belloli Marco , Gentile Carmelo
Published: April 2022

The present study deals with the structural safety evaluation of a 50-year-old river bridge, called Baghetto Bridge, located in north Italy on the Adda River. Generally speaking, hydraulic processes are the main cause of bridge failure. Scour and hydrodynamic loads have been largely studied by the hydraulic engineering community; however, in practice, integration with structural analysis is often missing. The aim of this research is to provide a multidisciplinary procedure based on hydraulic and dynamic investigations devoted to the structural verification and monitoring of river bridges with traditional mechanical bearings. The deck–river interaction is addressed, studying the influence of debris accumulation on the bridge and performing structural verification of the bearing supports. The actions exerted on the bridge deck by the river current were estimated following the recommendations of the Italian code and making some further assumptions. In addition, dynamic investigations and FE modelling were performed. The results show (1) a relatively fast procedure that can be applied by practitioners to perform structural verification of river bridges with traditional mechanical bearings, and (2) an investigation method to evaluate temperature–frequency correlation as a reference for future inspections.
Review of the Korean Species of the Genus Edaphus Motschulsky (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) with Description of Four New Species
Authors: Byeon Ui-Joung , Park Sun-Jae , Lee Seung-Gyu , Park Jong-Seok
Published: April 2022

The cosmopolitan euaesthetine genus, Edaphus Motschulsky, 1857, with about 90 Palaearctic species, was formerly known by a single species, E. koreanus Puthz, 2011, of which 2 specimens were collected in the southern part of the Korean Peninsula. In this paper, the knowledge of the Korean Edaphus fauna is expanded to include six species, including four described here based on a rich material collected in recent years. A key to all six species of Korean Edaphus, illustration of the habitus and diagnostic characters, and a distribution map are provided.