bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High transcriptional activity and clinical correlations in eosinophils of patients with late-onset asthma
Authors: Lin Ting-Yu , Lo Chun-Yu , Chang Po-Jui , Lo Yu-Lun , Lee Chung-Shu , Chang Chih-Hao , Yu Chih-Teng , Yao Jonathan Huai , Lin Shu-Min
Published: August 2022

Background
The immunological features of eosinophils in early-onset asthma (EOA) differs from that in late-onset asthma (LOA). Clinical trials of anti-interleukin-5 (IL-5) treatment for severe eosinophilic asthma showed a better response for LOA patients than EOA patients. We wonder if the transcriptional activity of activated eosinophils was different in EOA and LOA.
Methods
Eosinophils obtained from well controlled EOA and LOA patients and normal subjects were compared in terms of the mRNA expression of activation-related genes (integrins α4 and β2, CCR3, CCR5, and IL-5Rα, and IL-17RA) and specific markers (IL-4Rα, prostaglandin D2 receptor 2, high-affinity IgE receptor, TGF-β1, aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and endosomal TLR-3, 7, and 9) in eosinophils activated by IL-5 or IL-17. The correlation between mRNA expression and clinical features and lung function were further analyzed.
Results
The transcriptional expression of most genes was higher in activated eosinophils from LOA patients than in those from EOA patients and normal subjects. After IL-17 stimulation, the expression of certain genes was higher in atopic EOA patients than in non-atopic EOA patients. Similar observation was noted in obese EOA patients. After IL-5 stimulation, the transcriptional expression of most genes in eosinophils from LOA patients was negatively correlated with indicators of lung function. These correlations were less pronounced in EOA patients: After IL-17 stimulation, some genes in EOA patients were negatively correlated with post-bronchodilator changes in lung function. There was no significant correlation between mRNA expression and treatment control levels among LOA or EOA patients
Conclusion
This study describes differences in the transcriptional active patterns of eosinophils and their correlation to atopy and obese by age of onset. High transcriptional activity in activated eosinophils and a negative correlation to lung function indicate the importance of eosinophils in the pathogenesis of LOA.
Introducing Extended Consultations for Patients with Severe Mental Illness in General Practice. Results from the SOFIA Feasibility Study
Authors: Jønsson ABR , Martiny FHJ , Søndergaard MK , Brodersen JB , Due TD , Nielsen MH , Bakkedal C , Bardram JE , Bissenbakker K , Christensen I , Doherty K , Kjellberg P , Mercer SW , Reventlow S , Rozing MP , Møller A
Published: August 2022

Background
The SOFIA intervention aims to improve life expectancy and quality of life for patients with severe mental illness (SMI). The complex intervention was co-designed with relevant stakeholders and consists of an extended consultation in general practice, focusing on a patient-centred and structured care approach. We tested its feasibility and assessed the clinical content of extended consultations as preparation for a larger randomized pilot study.
Methods
The study was a one-armed feasibility study. We planned that seven general practices in northern Denmark would introduce extended consultations with their patients with SMI for six months. Patients with SMI were identified using practice medical records and screened for eligibility by the patients’ general practitioner (GP). Data were collected using case report forms filled out by practice personnel and via qualitative methods, including observations of consultations, individual semi-structured interviews, a focus group with GPs, and informal conversations with patients and general practice staff.
Results
Five general practices employing seven GPs participated in the study, which was terminated 3 ½ month ahead of schedule due to the COVID-19 pandemic. General practices contacted 57 patients with SMI. In total, 38 patients (67%) attended an extended consultation, which led to a change in patients’ somatic health care plan in 82% of consultations. The conduct of the extended consultations varied between GPs and diverged from the SOFIA protocol. Nonetheless, GPs found that the extended consultations were feasible and, in most cases, perceived as beneficial for the patient group. Most patients also perceived an extended consultation as beneficial.
Discussion
Our findings suggest that extended consultations for patients with SMI in general practice are feasible and perceived as beneficial by GPs and patients. Larger studies with a longer follow-up period could help to assess the long-term effects and the best implementation strategies for introducing extended consultations for patients with SMI in general practice.
Conclusion
Introducing extended consultations for patients with SMI in the Danish general practice setting was feasible and acceptable to patients and GPs. Extended consultations are well-suited for eliciting patients’ values and preferences and likely lead to changes in most patients’ somatic health care plans.
Association of Social deprivation with cognitive abilities in older adults in India – Evidence from LASI
Authors: Barman Poulami , Pandey Mohit , Bramhankar Mahadev , Tyagi Rishabh , Rai Balram
Published: August 2022

Background Existing evidence indicates that the link between socioeconomic status and mental health is complex and overlapping. Although cognitive functioning declines with age and is directly linked to biological brain changes as people age, socioeconomic factors play an essential role in the level and change of cognitive functioning and onset of depression in older adults. This study attempts to assess the association between social deprivation, cognitive status, and depression among older persons in India. Data and Methods The LASI Wave 1, collected in India between 2017 and 2018, was used for this study. Social deprivation Index (SDI) was constructed. Education, wealth quintile, working status, living arrangements etc. were SDI indicators. Multivariate logistic regressions were used to establish the association between outcome and explanatory variables. Results The findings reveal that 31% of people with higher social deprivation have poor cognitive health compared to only 8% of people with lower social deprivation. Further, 60.5% of people with higher social deprivation have depressive symptoms compared to 25.8% of people with lower social deprivation. The prevalence of poor cognitive health (18.5%) and depressive symptoms (32.1%) are highest among older adults with no schooling, and further the good cognitive health (0.3%) in older adults with ten or more years of education. The exploratory analysis indicated that cognitive health and depressive symptoms were significantly associated with age, place of residence, marital status, caste/tribe, and religion. Conclusion The findings suggest that older adults (75 and above) with depressive and cognitive dysfunctioning were the largest in the case of highly socially deprived. In other age groups, highly socially deprived people are more vulnerable to poor cognitive health and depressive symptoms. The findings from the study inform the policymakers and planners to devise policies considering equitable healthcare needs to improve mental health among older adults, which is generally ignored in India.
Caspase-8 Contributes to Immuno-Hot Microenvironment by Promoting Phagocytosis via an Ecto-Calreticulin-dependent Mechanism
Authors: Gong Zhihua , Jia Qingzhu , Xu Shouxia , Jin Zheng , Chu Han , Wan Yisong Y. , Zhu Bo , Zhou Yi
Published: August 2022

Background
Caspase-8 play as an initiator caspase of cell apoptosis signaling. However, the role of caspase-8 in tunning tumor immune microenvironment remains controversial due to a complicated crosstalk between immuno-tolerogenic apoptotic cell death and immunogenic cell death (ICD) cascades.
Methods
TCGA and publicly accessible immune checkpoint blockade (ICB)-treated cohort were introduced to investigate the clinical relevance of caspase-8. Tumor-bearing mouse model was used to characterize the change of tumor microenvironment and explore efficacy to ICB treatment in caspase-8 knockout condition.
Results
We showed that the expression level of Casp8 was associated with an immuno-hot microenvironment across various solid tumor types by exploring TCGA dataset. Casp8 deficiency led to decreased CD8+ T cell infiltration and resistance to αPD-L1 therapy in mouse model. Mechanistically, Casp8 deficiency or pharmacological disruption resulted in impaired ecto-calreticulin (ecto-CRT) transition on tumor cells, which in turn hampered antigen presentation in draining lymph node. Furthermore, radiotherapy restore the sensitivity to αPD-L1 treatment via elevated surface expression of CRT.
Conclusions
Our data revealed a causative role of Casp8 in modulating immunogenicity of tumor cells and responsiveness to immune checkpoint blockade immunotherapies and proposed that radiotherapy as a salvage approach to overcome Casp8 deficiency-mediated ICB resistance.
Clinical and epidemiologic features of SARS-CoV-2 in dogs and cats compiled through national surveillance in the United States
Authors: Liew Amanda Y. , Carpenter Ann , Moore Taylor A. , Wallace Ryan M. , Hamer Sarah A. , Hamer Gabriel L. , Fischer Rebecca S.B. , Zecca Italo B. , Davila Edward , Auckland Lisa D. , Rooney Jane A. , Killian Mary Lea , Tell Rachel M. , Rekant Steven I. , Burrell Sierra D. , Ghai Ria R. , Behravesh Casey Barton
Published: August 2022

Objective
To characterize clinical and epidemiologic features of SARS-CoV-2 in companion animals detected through both passive and active surveillance in the U.S.
Animals
204 companion animals (109 cats, 95 dogs) across 33 states with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infections between March 2020 and December 2021.
Procedures
Public health officials, animal health officials, and academic researchers investigating zoonotic SARS-CoV-2 transmission events reported clinical, laboratory and epidemiological information through a standardized One Health surveillance process developed by CDC and partners.
Results
Among dogs and cats identified through passive surveillance, 94% (n = 87) had reported exposure to a person with COVID-19 before infection. Clinical signs of illness were present in 74% of pets identified through passive surveillance and 27% of pets identified through active surveillance. Duration of illness in pets averaged 15 days in cats and 12 days in dogs. The average time between human and pet onset of illness was 10 days. Viral nucleic acid was first detected at 3 days post exposure in both cats and dogs. Antibodies were detected starting 5 days post exposure and titers were highest at 9 days in cats and 14 days in dogs.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance
Our data support that cats and dogs primarily become infected with SARS-CoV-2 following exposure to a person with COVID-19, most often their owners. Case investigation and surveillance that includes both people and animals is necessary to understand transmission dynamics and viral evolution of zoonotic diseases like SARS-CoV-2.
Effects of Phosphorus Fertilization on Growth Characteristics, Fatty Acid Composition, and Seed Yields of Fengdan (Paeonia ostii T. Hong & J. X. Zhang)
Authors: Duan Xiangguang , Liu Wei , Wang Xiaojing , Zhang Lixia , Liu Shuguang , Guo Lili , Guo Dalong , Hou Xiaogai
Published: August 2022

Paeonia ostii T. Hong & J. X. Zhang is a perennial oil and medicinal plant with great importance as well as landscaping. P. ostii is being extensively planted in China, but the soil fertility limits the yield and quality. There is little information available on the effects of phosphorus fertilization on productivity, physiological characteristics, and seed yield and quality. This study investigated the influence of different phosphorus levels, 0 kg·hm−2 (CK), 90 c−2 (P1), 135 kg·hm−2 (P2), 180 kg·hm−2 (P3), 225 kg·hm−2 (P4), and 270 kg·hm−2 (P5), on the photosynthesis, morphology, physiological parameters, and yield of P. ostii. The results indicated that the net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance (gS), and transpiration rate of P. ostii increased significantly with the application of P4, which increased by 34.77%, 65.72%, and 21.00% compared with CK, respectively. Simultaneously, the contents of soluble sugar, soluble protein, and photosynthetic pigment in P4 were the highest compared with other treatments. In addition, thousand-grain weight (326.4 g) and seed yield per plant (37.33 g) of P4 were significantly higher than the control. However, the total amount of unsaturated fatty acids in P4 was lower compared with other treatments. The indexes of high correlation coefficients with Dim 1 and Dim 2 were gS and superoxide dismutase (SOD), respectively. The results showed that phosphorus levels improved plant photosynthetic capacity and increased antioxidant capacity as well as seed yield. Furthermore, phosphate fertilizer had significant effects on the oil composition. Moreover, the effect of phosphorus application rate on the growth index of P. ostii was greater than that of the physiological index.
Local structure determination of Zn-smectite
Authors: Tao Qi , Xing Chaogang , Lee Seungyeol , Yang Long , Zeng Qingjin , Li Shangying , Zhang Tianqi , Lv Guanglie , He Hongping , Komarneni Sridhar
Published: August 2022

An aluminum-free zinc-bearing smectite (Zn-smectite) was synthesized under hydrothermal conditions, together with its magnesium substituted products. Its layer charge calculated by cation exchange capacity (CEC) is 117.4 mmol/100 g. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed turbostratic stacking and showed that the d06l value of the Zn-smectite was >1.525 Å, indicating that it is trioctahedral. Its d001 value increased from ca.12.8 Å to ca. 16.0 Å after ethylene glycol (EG) saturation. The Zn-smectite did not irreversibly collapse after heating the Li+-saturated sample to 300 °C, suggesting that its layer charge was generated from octahedral-site vacancies (defects). The Zn-smectite resembles zincsilite-like minerals with interlayer Na+ and Zn2+. The intralayer structure of zincsilite was confirmed by pair distribution function (PDF) analysis, and the whole crystal structure was built and optimized by DFT calculation in the CASTEP module of the Materials Studio software. Synthetic zincsilite is triclinic, space group P1, and its optimized unit-cell parameters are: a = 5.294 Å, b = 9.162 Å, c = 12.800 Å, α = 90.788°, β = 98.345°, and γ = 90.399°.
Critical Pedagogy in an EFL Context: Towards Solving the Definition Precision Problem
Authors: Akbarpour Leila
Published: August 2022

Some critics mention the definition variety problem, or a lack of definitional precision, as a major problem with Critical Pedagogy (CP). One who has just been familiar with CP may not have enough information regarding its roots and its multidisciplinary nature. S/he may not know about the historical development of CP and thus may not even be acquainted with the possibility of the existence of different definitions and versions for CP. Therefore, a newly-arrived researcher may get confused encountering the different definitions of CP. On the other hand, the literature on CP does not seem to be directed at the new researchers. By having five phases, the present mixed-methods study offered a simple definition of CP encompassing all the common grounds in the literature using an extensive literature review, the Grounded Theory approach, and Factor Analysis. Ten Iranian EFL professionals in CP, besides 306 Iranian EFL teachers, participated in the present work. The results of the present work may be helpful in developing CP-based curricula and courses which look into the real needs of the learners and teachers in order to have a more fruitful educational system.
Short Plays and Drama in EFL Classrooms as Perceived by Secondary School Students: the Role and Impact
Authors: Sari Dini Rosita
Published: August 2022

This quantitative study investigates the role and impact of short plays and drama on English as a foreign language (EFL) students. A total of 72 students from a secondary school in North Kalimantan in Indonesia participated in the study. Data was collected through a questionnaire consisting of 8 items, which were later classified into three different focuses of inquiries; psychological, instrumental, and pedagogical aspects. The study results indicate that secondary school students viewed short play from the three perspectives positively. Findings also suggest that the application of short play in EFL classrooms must be preceded by a careful selection of literary texts and careful planning of short play instructional design. Finally, the study calls for further attempts to integrate secondary school EFL curriculum and literature, implying the needs for appropriate drama-based activity pedagogy and professional development programs.
Iranian EFL and Malaysian ESL University Students’ Use of Language Learning Strategies
Authors: Kashefian-Naeeini Sara , Maarof Nooreiny
Published: August 2022

In recent years, more active roles have been allocated to language learners. Empowering students can help them function more autonomously and their ability to make appropriate use of language learner strategies (LLSs) predisposes them to achieve their academic goals. The participants of the present study were male and female undergraduate university students from two different countries. A multivariate analysis of variance was conducted to compare the use of the six strategy categories of memory strategies, cognitive strategies, compensation strategies, metacognitive strategies, affective strategies and social strategies together with direct strategies, indirect strategies and overall use of language learning strategies among Iranian EFL and Malaysian ESL university students. It was illuminated that social context influenced selected students’ use of social strategies. Classroom observations helped the researchers to find out about frequency of use of language learning strategies. Metacognitive and cognitive strategies were the most used in-class strategies among Iranian and Malaysian university students, respectively.  It is suggested that instructors provide a wide range of language learning strategies to satisfy the needs of learners with different needs and expectations.
Mikroplastik ve Biyokatı Varlığında Toprakta Nikel Toksisitesinin Belirlenmesi
Authors: ULUTUĞ Fatma Cansu , TOPUZ Emel
Published: August 2022

Hayatımızda büyük bir yer kaplayan plastikler bu yaygın kullanımlarıyla aynı zamanda çeşitli çevre sorunlarını da beraberinde getirmiştir. Atıksu Arıtma Tesislerinin arıtma çamurlarında mikroplastikler birikebilmekte ve daha sonra bu çamurların tarım arazilerinde kullanılması ağır metaller ve mikroplastikler gibi henüz çevreye etkileri net olmayan kirleticilerin yayılmasına neden olabilmektedir. Tarım arazilerinde risk arz eden ağır metallerden biri Nikel olup ilgili yönetmeliklerle de sınırlandırılmıştır. Ancak, mikroplastik ve biyokatı gibi etkileri yeni incelenmeye başlayan potansiyel kirletici kaynaklar ile bulunması durumunda Nikelin toksisitesinde meydana gelebilecek değişim incelenmemiştir. Bu kapsamda, mikroplastik ve biyokatı varlığında Nikel toksisitesi incelenmiştir. Toprakta yaşayan canlıları temsilen kullanılan E. Crypticus üzerinde üremeye olan etkileri EC50 değerleri ile belirlenmiştir. Buna göre hem mikroplastikler hem de biyokatı uygulamaları Nikel toksisitesini düşürücü yönde etki etmiştir. Bu durum, Nikelin biyokatıdaki organik maddelerle kompleks oluşturarak ya da mikroplastik yüzeyinde bulunabilecek yüklü yüzey gruplarıyla etkileşime girerek toksik etkiyi meydana getirdiği bilinen iyonik formun nötrleşmesi ile açıklanabilir.
Investigation of ABO and Rh Blood Group Frequencies in Southern Kazakhstan and North Eastern Anatolian Populations
Authors: GÖK İlhami
Published: August 2022

This study was carried out to compare the phenotypic distributions of ABO and Rh blood groups of individuals living in North East Anatolia versus in Southern Kazakhstan. A total of 232 samples from individuals living in North East Anatolia and a total of 324 samples from Southern Kazakhstan were collected. Antisera of collected samples were analyzed using an ELISA technique. Our findings, the A blood group was the highest (42.4%), followed by the B blood group (28%). The O blood group (24.2%) and the AB blood group (5.4%) were for North East Anatolia population. As for Rh phenotypic frequency, 85.6% of the population was Rh (+) and 14.4% of them were Rh (-) for the same population. As for the population living in Southern Kazakhstan, 38.5% of the population had the A blood group, 22.2% the B group, 33.9% the O blood group, and 5.4% of the population had the AB group. For the same population, the rate of Rh (+) was 93% and Rh (-) was 7%.
we summarize that the A type and B were higher in North East Anatolia population than the Southern Kazakhstan population. On the other hand, the phenotypic distribution of the O type was higher in Southern Kazakhstan than in North East Anatolia. The AB blood group was similar in both populations The phenotypic frequency of the Rh (+) in North East Anatolia was lower than that of Southern Kazakhstan, and Rh (-) distribution in the North East Anatolia was found to be higher than in Southern Kazakhstan
Effects of Exogenous Linoleic Acid on Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Seedlings Under Salinity
Authors: UÇARLI Cüneyt
Published: August 2022

Salt stress adversely affects plants and causes different levels of morphological,
physiological, biochemical, and molecular changes at different growth stages. Polyunsaturated fatty
acids (PUFAs), such as linoleic acid, are main components of membrane lipids and determine the
fluidity and stability of the cell membrane. In addition, PUFAs have a crucial role in maintaining the
structure and function of the cell membrane which is damaged by salinity. There may be a relationship
between level of PUFAs in membrane lipids and salinity tolerance. The present study was carried out
to examine the effects of exogenous application of 0.5 mM linoleic acid (LA) on barley seedlings
(Hordeum vulgare L. cv. Martı) grown in hydroponic conditions under 160 mM NaCl. The treatment
with LA ameliorated the stress generated by NaCl by increasing osmolyte level and decreasing ion
leakage percentage and H2O2 content within hours. Besides, LA significantly enhanced expression of
salt-responsive transcription factor HvDRF2 and ROS scavenger gene HvMT2 as 105- and 40-fold,
respectively, in the leaves of barley seedlings under salinity conditions. While LA slightly increased
the gene expression of ascorbate peroxidase (HvAPX), glutathione S-transferase (HvGST6) and copper
zinc superoxide dismutase (HvCu/ZnSOD) in the roots of barley seedlings, the expression of these
genes was not changed in the leaves under salinity compared to salt-stressed samples. This study
provides novel insights for effects of LA on improvement of salinity tolerance in barley.
Natural Compounds Targeting VEGFRs in Kidney Cancer: An In silico Prediction
Authors: KUZU Burak , KARAKUŞ Fuat
Published: August 2022

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (VEGFR-TKIs), which target angiogenesis by blocking VEGF signaling, are used in the treatment of many cancers including kidney cancer. Despite their efficacy in cancer, serious adverse effects such as hypertension and cardiovascular toxicities remain a clinical challenge. Natural non-toxic compounds targeting VEGFRs might be an alternative to VEGFR-TKIs. In the current study, we screened databases and literature which recommend natural compounds for kidney cancer and found approximately five hundred natural compounds. After screening for toxicity and drug-likeliness properties, fifteen of these compounds remained. Subsequently, we performed molecular docking studies against VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2 with Lenvatinib, reported to be the most toxic of TKIs, and the fifteen natural compounds. As a result, Polydatin and Plakortide M gave the closest results to Lenvatinib in the interactions of the compounds with VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, respectively.
Investigations of hysteresis based direct torque controlled and field oriented controlled IPM drives for electric vehicle applications
Authors: ÖZÇİFLİKÇİ Osman Emre , KOÇ Mikail
Published: August 2022

Direct Torque Control (DTC) techniques are widely used in the control of AC machines as an opponent of space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) based field-oriented control (FOC). In the literature, hysteresis-based DTC (HB-DTC) is a vast majority of DTC techniques as the technique do not require a position resolver or an encoder. In this study, HB-DTC and FOC techniques are compared in detail by paying particular attention to current distortions, torque ripple and computational burden. In both techniques, the results have been obtained by simulating a 4.1 kW interior mounted permanent magnet synchronous (IPM) motor which has been designed and manufactured for research and development for electric vehicle traction applications. The results validate that although the HBDTC drives, have pros such as having less computational burden on the processor and eliminating the need for a position sensor, they have relatively much current distortions and torque ripple and hence the results are much deteriorated. Since the modern processors can easily deal with higher computational burden and field-oriented control is feasible in real time, it has been validated by extensive simulations that FOC based IPM drives are superior to their HB-DTC counterparts.
ON OPTIMAL DESIGN OF REINFORCED CONCRETE COLUMNS SUBJECTED TO COMBINED BIAXIAL BENDING AND AXIAL LOAD
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, IBRAHEEM ANAS AKRAM , PRONINA YULIA G. ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: August 2022

This paper presents a new procedure for designing rectangular columns subjected to combined biaxial bending and axial load. The new procedure is realized within a new comprehensive structural analysis software for building analysis and design. Compared to existing engineering packages, the new program does not require pre-setting the distribution of bars before designing and gives more detailed results: not only the required reinforcement amount, but also a distribution of bars of a certain diameter along the sides of the column section. The program starts by inserting four reinforcement bars into the corners of the column, and checks if this reinforcement bars provide required resistance to the applied loads. If the reinforced concrete column fails to withstand the applied loads, then the program increases the reinforcement by adding new bars and checks required resistance again. This process continues until the reinforced concrete column is able to withstand the applied loads. The proposed procedure is realized within following methods: (I) calculation of the so-called column capacity interaction volume using a large number of interaction curves (usually 24 curves); (II) the elliptical approximation of the column capacity interaction volume (the load contour equation). Within the second method, the program calculates two interaction curves only: the first curve is for an eccentric case in X direction and the second curve is for an eccentric case in Y direction. In both methods, the interaction curves are calculated according to American concrete institute standards. The use of the new procedure within the second method gives results very close to the first method (the most accurate), but it requires much less time for calculation. This is very important when designing large structures with multiple columns.
The pragmatic strategy of praise in the texts of the collection of Dutch evangelical psalms
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Dmitrieva Maria
Published: August 2022

The purpose of the paper is to identify ways to implement the speech macro strategy of praise to God for text material of the collection of Dutch evangelical psalms published in 1806. This article has three main parts. First, the article analyzes how the communicative intention of praise manifests itself in the prose text of the Preface to the Collection. Here the strategy is formulated in the third person; its implementation is most clearly observed in the initial and final positions of the text as the most communicatively loaded. Second, we consider ways in which a given strategy is implemented in the poetic texts of the psalms. In this perspective, the communicative task of glorifying the greatness of God is of the utmost importance; it is formulated directly on behalf of all believers using the following linguistic means and stylistic techniques: rhetorical exclamations and appeals to the Lord, rhetorical questions, lexical means of appropriate semantics and pragmatic potential. Third, the basic principles of interaction between the text of the psalms and the musical arrangement for the voice are discussed. The analysis allows us to conclude that with the help of harmonies and melodic drawing, the dictum and modus content of the poetic text is masterfully emphasized, the inner potential of meter and rhyme is more fully revealed. In general, the macro-strategy of praise has a dominant meaning and manifests itself in many aspects in the contamination of verbal and musical language.
Psychosocial Impact of Lockdown on Children due to COVID-19: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alnamnakani Mahdi , Alenezi Shuliweeh , Temsah Hani , Alothman Mohamad , Murshid Rozan Esam , Alonazy Hana , Alqurashi Haitham
Published: August 2022

Background:

Quarantine measures during the COVID-19 lockdown had a negative impact on children’s psychology and development. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the psychological impact of quarantine on children due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabia and to assess types of reported child maltreatment before and after the pandemic.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey among parents was performed along with a retrospective data review for anonymized data from the National Family Safety Program, Saudi Arabia. 436 children participated in this survey during June-November 2020.

Results:

The percentage of fathers with an organic or psychological illness in the children with elevated anxiety levels is 18.5% (p-value = 0.019). The anxiety level of the participants was assessed using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment (GAD-7). Based on the scores, 10.1% had severe anxiety. The depression level of the participants was assessed using Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Based on the scores, 4.4% had severe depression. The anxiety level of the children was assessed using Spence Children’s Anxiety Scale – Parent (SCAS-Parent). Based on the overall score, 28.1% of the children had elevated anxiety levels. The anxiety level was elevated in a panic attack and agoraphobia for 36.8% of the kids, in separation anxiety for 26.8%, in physical injury fears for 35.1%, in social phobia for 19%, in obsessive-compulsive for 25.1%, and in generalized anxiety disorder/overanxious for 27.3%.

Conclusion:

Quarantine and lockdown during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic have had a negative impact and many adverse effects on the mental and intellectual development of children. These negative outcomes may be addressed via well-planned multilevel interventions.
Digital Medicine System in Veterans With Severe Mental Illness: Feasibility and Acceptability Study
Authors: Gonzales Sarah , Okusaga Olaoluwa O , Reuteman-Fowler J Corey , Oakes Megan M , Brown Jamie N , Moore Scott , Lewinski Allison A , Rodriguez Cristin , Moncayo Norma , Smith Valerie A , Malone Shauna , List Justine , Cho Raymond Y , Jeffreys Amy S , Bosworth Hayden B
Published: August 2022

Background

Suboptimal medication adherence is a significant problem for patients with serious mental illness. Measuring medication adherence through subjective and objective measures can be challenging, time-consuming, and inaccurate.

Objective

The primary purpose of this feasibility and acceptability study was to evaluate the impact of a digital medicine system (DMS) among Veterans (patients) with serious mental illness as compared with treatment as usual (TAU) on medication adherence.

Methods

This open-label, 2-site, provider-randomized trial assessed aripiprazole refill adherence in Veterans with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, or major depressive disorder. We randomized 26 providers such that their patients either received TAU or DMS for a period of 90 days. Semistructured interviews with patients and providers were used to examine the feasibility and acceptability of using the DMS.

Results

We enrolled 46 patients across 2 Veterans Health Administration sites: 21 (46%) in DMS and 25 (54%) in TAU. There was no difference in the proportion of days covered by medication refill over 3 and 6 months (0.82, SD 0.24 and 0.75, SD 0.26 in DMS vs 0.86, SD 0.19 and 0.82, SD 0.21 in TAU, respectively). The DMS arm had 0.85 (SD 0.20) proportion of days covered during the period they were engaged with the DMS (mean 144, SD 100 days). Interviews with patients (n=14) and providers (n=5) elicited themes salient to using the DMS. Patient findings described the positive impact of the DMS on medication adherence, challenges with the DMS patch connectivity and skin irritation, and challenges with the DMS app that affected overall use. Providers described an overall interest in using a DMS as an objective measure to support medication adherence in their patients. However, providers described challenges with the DMS dashboard and integrating DMS data into their workflow, which decreased the usability of the DMS for providers.

Conclusions

There was no observed difference in refill rates. Among those who engaged in the DMS arm, the proportion of days covered by refills were relatively high (mean 0.85, SD 0.20). The qualitative analyses highlighted areas for further refinement of the DMS.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03881449; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03881449
The Impact of Electronic Health Record Interoperability on Safety and Quality of Care in High-Income Countries: Systematic Review
Authors: Li Edmond , Clarke Jonathan , Ashrafian Hutan , Darzi Ara , Neves Ana Luisa
Published: August 2022

Background

Electronic health records (EHRs) and poor system interoperability are well-known issues in the use of health information technologies in most high-income countries worldwide. Despite the abundance of literature exploring their relationship, their practical implications on patient safety and quality of care remain unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to examine how EHR interoperability affects patient safety, or other dimensions of care quality, in high-income health care settings.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted using 4 web-based medical journal repositories and grey literature sources. The publications included were published in English between 2010 and 2022, pertaining to EHR use, interoperability, and patient safety or care quality in high-income settings. Screening was completed by 3 researchers in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Risk of bias assessments were performed using the Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies of Interventions and the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tools. The findings were presented as a narrative synthesis and mapped based on the Institute of Medicine’s framework for health care quality.

Results

A total of 12 studies met the inclusion criteria to be included in our review. The findings were categorized into 6 common outcome measure categories: patient safety events, medication safety, data accuracy and errors, care effectiveness, productivity, and cost savings. EHR interoperability positively influenced medication safety, reduced patient safety events, and reduced costs. Improvements in time saving and clinical workflow are mixed. However, true measures of effect are difficult to determine with certainty because of the heterogeneity in the outcome measures used and notable variation in study quality.

Conclusions

The benefits of EHR interoperability on the quality and safety of care remain unclear and reflect extensive heterogeneity in the interventions, designs, and outcome measures used. The establishment of common health information technology research outcome measures would support higher-quality research on the topic. Future research efforts should focus on both the positive and negative impacts of interoperable EHR interventions and explore patient perspectives, given the growing trend for patient involvement and stewardship over their own electronic clinical data.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO CRD42020209285; https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=209285

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR2-10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044941
A Combination of Web-based and In-Person Training Reduced Fall Accidents in Older Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Thomsen Mikkel Jacobi , Liston Matthew , Christensen Merete Grothe , Vestergaard Peter , Hirata Rogerio
Published: August 2022

Background

Fall accidents in older adults are associated with reduced quality of life, personal health issues, and earlier deaths. Previous studies have found that both physical and cognitive parameters influence the risk of falling in older adults. During the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown (2020-2021) in Denmark, web-based training was the safest option for training, although its effectiveness was uncertain.

Objective

The purpose of this stratified, block randomized trial was to examine the effect of two types of web-based and in-person training—salsa dance and regular fitness circuit—in two training groups in comparison with a control group.

Methods

A total of 78 older adults (9 male and 69 female; mean age 70.4, SD 4.4 years; mean height 165.2, SD 6.8 cm; and mean weight 65.7, SD 11.9 kg) completed the 6-months training period: dance (n=25), fitness (n=23), and control group (n=30). Accidental falls were registered during the follow-up test. Participants in the two training groups were assigned to 1-hour training sessions twice a week for 6 months. Prior to the pandemic, training was administered by a skilled instructor at an activity center in the municipality or a dance studio. Following the pandemic, dance training was administered through a web-based meeting platform, whereas fitness training was guided by a video. Adherence to the training was collected weekly. Participants in the control group were encouraged to continue their everyday life.

Results

Both intervention groups had fewer accidental falls during the 6 months intervention compared with the control group (control group: 9 falls; dance: 4 falls, fitness: 0 falls; chi-square: P<.05). In total, adherence to fitness training was 72.6%, and it was 86.9% for dance. However, adherence to the web-based dance training was 95% (342 dance training hours of possible 360 dance training hours).

Conclusions

A combination of a 6-months web-based and in-person training (for dance and fitness) reduced the number of accidental falls in older adults.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03683849; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03683849
The increased carbon storage changes with a decrease in phosphorus availability in the organic paddy soil
Authors: Aumtong Suphathida , Chotamonsak Chakrit , Somchit Bundit
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to investigate the effect of organic rice farming on the various forms of inorganic phosphorus, the concentration of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and carbon storage, and the relationship between DOC and P fractions in organic rice farming (ORF). The soil samples were taken from 11 organic plots, and three pseudo-replicates were sampled from individuals of various soil depths. The P-fractions, the soil organic carbon (SOC), DOC, and other soil properties were analyzed by standard methods from soils. The data were analyzed using One-way and Two-way ANOVA and tested using the least significant difference. The results showed that ORF soils had less labile P than conventional rice farming, while ORF had a higher average of DOC, SOC, and C stock than conventional rice soil (P<0.05). Organic fertilizers such as animal manure application and rice straw retention were used for ten years in the ORF. The agricultural practices of ORF would convince the amount of amorphous Fe and Al on soil minerals significantly and would increase the adsorption capacity of the soil mineral surfaces by organic fertilization. The Fe-P fraction responded to the increased adsorption capacity in the ORF and shown along with the DOC and P which were less than in ORF. Both of them were more adsorbed on the surface mineral. Meanwhile, the lower P for nutrient cycling in ORF soil, the lesser the decomposition of DOC and SOC, which then affected the increase of soil C storage.
Adaptation of introduced Robusta coffee clones in some agroclimate types in East Java.
Authors: Sugianto Pingkan , Sudarsono Sudarsono , Sukma Dewi , Sumirat Ucu
Published: August 2022

Indonesia is the fourth largest coffee producer in the world, even though it is not the original plant. Efforts to increase coffee genetic diversity in Indonesia through the results of the introduction are also carried out to improve the quality and quantity of coffee in the international market. The aim is to obtain robusta coffee clones that are able to adapt in several agroclimates in Indonesia and have stable yield potential, so that they can be cultivated extensively. The analytical method is AMMI biplot with six clones are FRT04, FRT06, FRT07, FRT09, FRT23, FRT65, and six locations are Bangelan, Kalibendo, Kaliselogiri, Gumitir, Malangsari, Silosanen.Then the agroclimate is suitable for widespread cultivation. The results of the study based on observations made on the production of coffee plants, which are climate types, which are somewhat wet and are getting good production results in the locations of Bangelan, Kaliselogiri and Silosanen. FRT07and FRT09 clones is the best clone of production and able to adapt, has interaction between locations with clones tested annually.
Frequency distribution and potence ratio of agronomic traits in F1 generation of intraspecific crosses of Robusta coffee.
Authors: Wibowo Ari , Sumirat Ucu
Published: August 2022

Leaf morphological traits and internode length significantly affect the adapt-ability and production of coffee plants, respectively. Therefore, genetic studies of these two characters can support the effectiveness of Robusta coffee breeding program for obtaining superior planting materials. This study aimed to determine the diversity and frequency distribution of F1 generation on internode length and leaf size of Robusta coffee crosses. The study involved six groups of F1 progeny and their reciprocals (F1R) resulted from a cross of three parents, namely BP 961, Q 121, and BP 409. Each cross combination was planted with 41–49 progenies singly side by side in Kaliwining Experimental Station, Jember, Indonesia. The observed traits were internode length and leaf size. Analysis results of progeny variation distribution showed that most of the F1 and F1R progenies from intraspecific Robusta crosses had shorter branches than both parents in all combinations of crosses, even in BP 961 × BP 409 crosses. In addition, all F1 and F1R progenies had shorter internodes than both parents. More than 50% of the progeny of Q 121 × BP 409 and BP 961 × BP 409 crosses showed leaf length trait between parents. This indicates the absence of dominance of one parent in the progeny. Less than 20.9% of the progeny had a narrower leaf size than Q 121 parent. Most of the F1 and F1R crosses had a leaf width between both parents. The leaf length and leaf width traits were incomplete dominance or recessive, while the internodelength was overdominant.
Cocoa fresh beans aqueous extract as free radical quencher and ferric reducer.
Authors: Kian Chee Samuel Yap , MD Yusof Arief Huzaimi Bin , Chin Hui Han
Published: August 2022

The presence of free radicals and oxidants in our body is either produced by our body through normal cell metabolisms or from environment surrounding us such as radiation, medication, pollutants or others. The free radicals and oxidants can be harmful to our body when their accumulation posing oxidative stress in the body. Cocoa beans are rich in polyphenols, which are functioning as antioxidant. However, each antioxidant has difference response towards either free radicals or other oxidants. The purpose of this research was to study the ability of cocoa fresh beans aqueous extract functions as antioxidant between its ability to reduce ferric to ferrous and number of free radicals removed from organic chemical compound of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). A series concentration of cocoa fresh beans aqueous were prepared. Its ability as ferric reducer was determined based on ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays and its ability as free radicals scavenger was determined using DPPH assays. This study revealed that freeze dried cocoa fresh beans aqueous extract of 50 ppm was able to reduce 3.2 x 10 15 of ferric molecules to ferrous. Concentration below 20 ppm generally was not able to reduce Fe(III) to Fe(II). Whereas, at concentration of 45 ppm freeze dried cocoa fresh beans aqueous extract was estimated able to remove 1.4 x 10 17 organic nitrogen free radicals from DPPH assay. This study suggests that freeze dried cocoa fresh beans aqueous extract has better performance in quenching free radicals compared to reducing ferric into ferrous.
Establishment of an efficient primary callus induction for embryogenic potential of Coffea arabica
Authors: Arimarsetiowati Rina , Daryono Budi Setiadi , Astuti Yohana Theresia Maria , Semiarti Endang
Published: August 2022

Coffea arabica L. is a species of coffee that contribute for more than seventy percent of world coffee production. Various attempts have been made to obtain large quantities of planting material through propagation in vitro somatic embryogenesis technology. The objective of this experiment was to evaluate the effect of different plant growth regulators (PGRs) on callus induction (indirect somatic embryogenesis) in AS2K clone of Arabica coffee. Mother plants of Arabica coffee were established in coffee experimental field of Indonesian Coffee and Cocoa Research Institute at Andung Sari, Bondowoso, East Java, Indonesia (-7˚55'' ' S, 113˚41'' ' E) at an altitude of 1380,1 m dpl. Leaf explants were cultured on a half-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with various concentration (1.0, 2.0, 3.0 mg/L) of 2,4-D and (1.0, 2.0, 3.0 mg/L) thidiazuron in combination with 1.0 mg/L BAP. All the experiments were organized in completely random design (CDR) and repeated three times, each using minimum seven replicates (a total of 21 explants per treatment). The morphologycal  and histological analysis of the different types of callus were observed. The percentage of callus formation was recorded every two weeks until eight weeks. The highest percentage of callus formation (almost 60%) was in medium containing 1 mg/L 2,4-D dan 1 mg/L BAP. Morphological and histological studies prove that the callus has a friable and embryogenic texture and begins to develop various stages of somatic embryo formation, starting with the globular, heart, torpedo and cotyledonary phases.
Rīgas cunftu emblēmu sākuma posms: amatu zīmogu piemērs (16. gs. – 17. gs. pirmā puse)
Authors:   Latvijas Universitāte, Fišere Justīne
Published: August 2022

Rīgā amatu emblēmas ir konstatējamas jau 16. gadsimtā un lietotas līdz pat cunftu pastāvēšanas beigām 20. gadsimtā. Pētījumā raksturots Rīgas Mazās ģildes cunftu emblēmu lietojums sfragistikas materiālā kā kopienai raksturīga tradīcija. Tiek sniegts ieskats emblēmas attēlu skaidrojumā, konstatētas tā izmaiņas atbilstoši sociālpolitisko apstākļu vai ideju maiņai. Analīzei izmantoti trīs laika posmam atbilstoši zīmogu nospiedumi ar amatu emblēmām no Rīgas vēstures un kuģniecības muzeja krājuma, tie salīdzināti ar jaunākiem zīmogiem un zīmogu nospiedumiem, kā arī citiem Rīgas un vācu pilsētu cunftu inventāra priekšmetiem.