bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemocompatibility of β-Cyclodextrin-Modified (Methacryloyloxy)ethyl Phosphorylcholine Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Li Shuhui , Sharaf Mehdi Ghaffari , Rowe Elyn M. , Serrano Katherine , Devine Dana V. , Unsworth Larry D.
Published: July 2023

Adsorbing toxins from the blood to augment membrane-based hemodialysis is an active area of research. Films composed of β-cyclodextrin-co-(methacryloyloxy)ethyl phosphorylcholine (p(PMβCD-co-MPC)) with various monomer ratios were formed on magnetic nanoparticles and characterized. Surface chemistry effects on protein denaturation were evaluated and indicated that unmodified magnetic nanoparticles greatly perturbed the structure of proteins compared to coated particles. Plasma clotting assays were conducted to investigate the stability of plasma in the presence of particles, where a 2:2 monomer ratio yielded the best results for a given total surface area of particles. Total protein adsorption results revealed that modified surfaces exhibited reduced protein adsorption compared to bare particles, and pure MPC showed the lowest adsorption. Immunoblot results showed that fibrinogen, α1-antitrypsin, vitronectin, prekallikrein, antithrombin, albumin, and C3 correlated with film composition. Hemocompatibility testing with whole blood illustrated that the 1:3 ratio of CD to MPC had a negative impact on platelets, as evidenced by the increased activation, reduced response to an agonist, and reduced platelet count. Other formulations had statistically significant effects on platelet activation, but no formulation yielded apparent adverse effects on hemostasis. For the first time, p(PMβCD-co-MPC)-coated MNP were synthesized and their general hemocompatibility assessed.
Leash Status of Approaching Dogs Mediates Escape Modality but Not Flight-Initiation Distance in a Common Urban Bird
Authors: Barnett Skye C. , van Dongen Wouter F. D. , Plotz Roan D. , Weston Michael A.
Published: July 2023

Controversy exists around owned dogs’ impacts in public open spaces, with concerns about dogs’ impact on wildlife, including birds. Leashing dogs in public open spaces offers a tractable way of reducing dogs’ deleterious impacts on birds. Although dogs in public spaces are often unleashed, some dogs roam freely, whilst other unleashed dogs remain close to their owners. It is currently unknown whether birds can perceive and incorporate subtle differences in the leash status of approaching, but non-roaming, dogs into their escape decisions. We compare escape responses of a common urban bird, the magpie-lark Grallina cyanoleuca, in parks in Melbourne, Australia, to standardized approaches by a walker and a dog, which was either leashed or not leashed (but with the dog at the same distance from the walker). Flight-initiation distances, the distance between the lark and dog when escape commenced, did not vary between treatments. However, the unleashed dog evoked more intense responses (mostly flying away) than the leashed dog (mostly walking away). Thus, this species appears to perceive unleashed dogs as especially threatening, independent of their roaming behavior. Our findings suggest that leashing may be an effective way to reduce dog disturbance to wildlife, even for non-roaming dogs.
Damage Assessment of Pine Wood Facades in the First Years of Service for Sustainable Maintenance
Authors: Almeida Joana Oliveira , Delgado Pedro , Labrincha António , Parauta Helena , Lima Bruno
Published: July 2023

The importance of the sustainability of wood buildings is increasing. The renewed attention highlights the need to assess the wood deterioration accurately, in the initial years of service, to optimize treatment during its lifetime and reduce maintenance costs. This study presents a methodology for inspecting and classifying damage of wood in service, relying on visual inspection and oriented to non-structural wooden components. This approach enables more affordable, widespread, and frequent monitoring of wooden elements in use, promoting their routine maintenance. The methodology was tested in the pine wood (Pinus sylvestris) facades with up to 5 years of service in a hotel building in northern Portugal. Despite its relatively brief period of operation, the building displays indications of both abiotic and biotic degradation of the wood across all its different facade orientations. Based on that, the study highlights the natural aging of Scots pine according to the building’s age, orientation, maintenance treatments, and exposure conditions. These findings provide insights into conservation plan optimization and emphasize the need for regular maintenance of wooden elements in outdoor environments, even in the early years of service.
A Comparative Analysis of Museum Accessibility in High-Density Asian Cities: Case Studies from Seoul and Tokyo
Authors: Zhao Xiaolong , Lee Jinju , Hong Kwanseon
Published: July 2023

We investigated the relationship between urban accessibility of museums in the urban spaces of Tokyo and Seoul within limited travel distances. Similarities and differences were identified in the museum accessibility between the two cities. The urban accessibility of museums was set as the dependent variable, calculated via space syntax. For the spatial accessibility of museums, five walking ranges (1000–2000 m) were set as independent variables, with a distance of 250 m as the basic unit. Data normality and independence of the derived data were checked, and polynomial curve fitting was performed to interpret the accessibility of museums in each city. A comparative analysis was conducted on museum accessibility. The results show areas with a high concentration of museums in Tokyo and Seoul partially deviated from the center of the urban hierarchy. The urban and spatial accessibilities of museums in both cities quantitatively correlated with limited travel distances. Museum visitors in Tokyo were more likely to have relatively free-flowing routes in the city. The museums in Seoul had a lower overall accessibility than those in Tokyo, and travel patterns and routes to these museums were likely to be restricted when located in urban areas and consequently resembled a forced movement pattern.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Hotspots and Trends in Coastal Building from 1988 to 2023: Based on the Web of Science and CiteSpace
Authors: Yang Huimin , Kim Chulsoo
Published: July 2023

This paper uses CiteSpace R6.1 bibliometric software to construct a knowledge map of coastal building research, analyses research authors, institutions, countries, keyword co-occurrence and keyword clustering, visualises and analyses the relevant literature collected in WOS, summarises the current state of research, research hotspots and research frontiers in the field, and provides a theoretical basis and decision support for relevant research. Specifically, this paper analyses 2067 records from 1988 to 2023. The results show that the impacts of climate change on coastal buildings are a major focus of research, but there are methodological and data limitations that encourage cross-national and interdisciplinary collaboration to address complex issues. Research trends include adaptive strategies, shoreline response and machine learning, and the need to integrate technical, engineering, social, economic, environmental and ethical dimensions to achieve sustainable and inclusive development.
Fuzzy Inference System (FIS) Model for the Seismic Parameters of Code-Based Earthquake Response Spectra
Authors: Mangir Atakan
Published: July 2023

The response spectra defined in seismic design codes include crisp classifications of seismic parameters, which directly affect the spectra’s shape and greatly alter seismic design loads. The optimum design phase seismic forces have an important role in the efficiency of the construction costs and structural safety. Various parameters are used to calculate the seismic design forces, especially presented in the codes with earthquake design spectra. This study presents a rule-based fuzzy inference model with fuzzy sets to determine these parameters using fuzzy inference system (FIS) modelling, which is the most appropriate approach among the different alternatives because both the input and output variables have numerical and linguistic uncertainties in the earthquake problem. Using the seismic zone factor of the region and shear wave velocity of the soil profile as inputs, the model generates the seismic coefficients and peak ground acceleration values of the response spectra specified in the Uniform Building Code (UBC, 1997). The response spectra in this code can be easily generated with these seismic coefficients after their fuzzification. Response spectra of twenty-five different sample cases with and without the FIS model are generated, which provide comparisons for the model superiority assessment. Significant differences are observed between the crisp logic and the FIS model-generated spectra. It is suggested that the FIS model can be modified and applied to various parameters to generate response spectra in different seismic design codes.
Metabolic Pathway Modeling in Muscle of Male Marathon Mice (DUhTP) and Controls (DUC)—A Possible Role of Lactate Dehydrogenase in Metabolic Flexibility
Authors: Brenmoehl Julia , Brosig Elli , Trakooljul Nares , Walz Christina , Ohde Daniela , Noce Antonia , Walz Michael , Langhammer Martina , Petkov Stefan , Röntgen Monika , Maak Steffen , Galuska Christina E. , Fuchs Beate , Kuhla Björn , Ponsuksili Siriluck , Wimmers Klaus , Hoeflich Andreas
Published: July 2023

In contracting muscles, carbohydrates and fatty acids serve as energy substrates; the predominant utilization depends on the workload. Here, we investigated the contribution of non-mitochondrial and mitochondrial metabolic pathways in response to repeated training in a polygenic, paternally selected marathon mouse model (DUhTP), characterized by exceptional running performance and an unselected control (DUC), with both lines descended from the same genetic background. Both lines underwent three weeks of high-speed treadmill training or were sedentary. Both lines’ muscles and plasma were analyzed. Muscle RNA was sequenced, and KEGG pathway analysis was performed. Analyses of muscle revealed no significant selection-related differences in muscle structure. However, in response to physical exercise, glucose and fatty acid oxidation were stimulated, lactate dehydrogenase activity was reduced, and lactate formation was inhibited in the marathon mice compared with trained control mice. The lack of lactate formation in response to exercise appears to be associated with increased lipid mobilization from peripheral adipose tissue in DUhTP mice, suggesting a specific benefit of lactate avoidance. Thus, results from the analysis of muscle metabolism in born marathon mice, shaped by 35 years (140 generations) of phenotype selection for superior running performance, suggest increased metabolic flexibility in male marathon mice toward lipid catabolism regulated by lactate dehydrogenase.
Structured Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Enhances Motility and Promotes the Antioxidant Capacity of Aged C. elegans
Authors: Mora Ignasi , Pérez-Santamaria Alejandra , Tortajada-Pérez Julia , Vázquez-Manrique Rafael P. , Arola Lluís , Puiggròs Francesc
Published: July 2023

The human lifespan has increased over the past century; however, healthspans have not kept up with this trend, especially cognitive health. Among nutrients for brain function maintenance, long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 LCPUFA): DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) must be highlighted, particularly structured forms of EPA and DHA which were developed to improve bioavailability and bioactivity in comparison with conventional ω-3 supplements. This study aims to elucidate the effect of a structured triglyceride form of DHA (DHA-TG) on the healthspan of aged C. elegans. Using a thrashing assay, the nematodes were monitored at 4, 8, and 12 days of adulthood, and DHA-TG improved its motility at every age without affecting lifespan. In addition, the treatment promoted antioxidant capacity by enhancing the activity and expression of SOD (superoxide dismutase) in the nematodes. Lastly, as the effect of DHA-TG was lost in the DAF-16 mutant strain, it might be hypothesized that the effects of DHA need DAF-16/FOXO as an intermediary. In brief, DHA-TG exerted a healthspan-promoting effect resulting in both enhanced physical fitness and increased antioxidant defense in aged C. elegans. For the first time, an improvement in locomotive function in aged wild-type nematodes is described following DHA-TG treatment.
Small and Medium-Sized Entrepreneurs’ Perceptions of Flood Loss and Damage in Sri Lanka
Authors: Hewawasam Vindya , Matsui Kenichi
Published: July 2023

As climate change has intensified flood risk and damage in many low-lying areas of the world, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which typically exist in developing countries, have endured high flood risks without much support for relief. This study investigates how SMEs in flood-prone areas of Colombo, Sri Lanka, the largest business hub in the country, have perceived and dealt with flood loss and damage in the past ten years. We conducted field surveys and a questionnaire survey among 60 SME owners in two flood-prone administrative units from March to June 2020. The results show that informal businesses experienced more flood loss and damage than other community members. Also, the community dominated by informal businesses tended to be located closer to potential flood sources. Ownership and awareness about flood insurance were very low in our study areas. Temporary business closure was the most serious loss experienced by informal business communities. These communities depended on personal savings to recover from floods. Our multiple regression analysis found that age, education, and experience significantly influenced SME owners’ perceptions and experiences about floods. After discussing these findings, this paper offers recommendations to mitigate disaster loss and damage to SMEs. In particular, it highlights the importance of community-level awareness and mitigation efforts rather than administrative unit-level mitigation plans. Also, the government needs to register informal businesses by providing a more flexible business registration mechanism.
Thermal Instability of Gold Thin Films
Authors: Łapiński Marcin , Dróżdż Piotr , Gołębiowski Mariusz , Okoczuk Piotr , Karczewski Jakub , Sobanska Marta , Pietruczik Aleksiej , Zytkiewicz Zbigniew R. , Zdyb Ryszard , Sadowski Wojciech , Kościelska Barbara
Published: July 2023

The disintegration of a continuous metallic thin film leads to the formation of isolated islands, which can be used for the preparation of plasmonic structures. The transformation mechanism is driven by a thermally accelerated diffusion that leads to the minimalization of surface free energy in the system. In this paper, we report the results of our study on the disintegration of gold thin film and the formation of nanoislands on silicon substrates, both pure and with native silicon dioxide film. To study the processes leading to the formation of gold nanostructures and to investigate the effect of the oxide layer on silicon diffusion, metallic film with a thickness of 3 nm was deposited by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) technique on both pure and oxidized silicon substrates. Transformation of the thin film was observed by low-energy electron microscopy (LEEM) and a scanning electron microscope (SEM), while the nanostructures formed were observed by atomic force microscope (AFM) method. Structural investigations were performed by low-energy electron diffraction (LEED) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) methods. Our experiments confirmed a strong correlation between the formation of nanoislands and the presence of native oxide on silicon substrates.
Nanoparticle-Based Treatment Approaches for Skin Cancer: A Systematic Review
Authors: Diaz Michael Joseph , Natarelli Nicole , Aflatooni Shaliz , Aleman Sarah J. , Neelam Sphurti , Tran Jasmine Thuy , Taneja Kamil , Lucke-Wold Brandon , Forouzandeh Mahtab
Published: July 2023

Nanoparticles have shown marked promise as both antineoplastic agents and drug carriers. Despite strides made in immunomodulation, low success rates and toxicity remain limitations within the clinical oncology setting. In the present review, we assess advances in drug delivery nanoparticles, for systemic and topical use, in skin cancer treatment. A systematic review of controlled trials, meta-analyses, and Cochrane review articles was conducted. Eligibility criteria included: (1) a primary focus on nanoparticle utility for skin cancer; (2) available metrics on prevention and treatment outcomes; (3) detailed subject population; (4) English language; (5) archived as full-text journal articles. A total of 43 articles were selected for review. Qualitative analysis revealed that nanoscale systems demonstrate significant antineoplastic and anti-metastasis properties: increased drug bioavailability, reduced toxicity, enhanced permeability and retention effect, as well as tumor growth inhibition, among others. Nanoformulations for skin cancers have largely lagged behind those tested in other cancers–several of which have commercialized formulae. However, emerging evidence has indicated a powerful role for these carriers in targeting primary and metastatic skin cancers.
A Practical Guide for the Systemic Treatment of Biliary Tract Cancer in Canada
Authors: Ramjeesingh Ravi , Chaudhury Prosanto , Tam Vincent C. , Roberge David , Lim Howard J. , Knox Jennifer J. , Asselah Jamil , Doucette Sarah , Chhiber Nirlep , Goodwin Rachel
Published: July 2023

Biliary tract cancers (BTC) are rare and aggressive tumors with poor prognosis. Radical surgery offers the best chance for cure; however, most patients present with unresectable disease, and among those receiving curative-intent surgery, recurrence rates remain high. While other locoregional therapies for unresectable disease may be considered, only select patients may be eligible. Consequently, systemic therapy plays a significant role in the treatment of BTC. In the adjuvant setting, capecitabine is recommended following curative-intent resection. In the neoadjuvant setting, systemic therapy has mostly been explored for downstaging in borderline resectable tumours, although evidence for its routine use is lacking. For advanced unresectable or metastatic disease, gemcitabine-cisplatin plus durvalumab has become the standard of care, while the addition of pembrolizumab to gemcitabine-cisplatin has also recently demonstrated improved survival compared to chemotherapy alone. Following progression on gemcitabine-cisplatin, several chemotherapy combinations and biomarker-driven targeted agents have been explored. However, the optimum regimen remains unclear, and access to targeted agents remains challenging in Canada. Overall, this article serves as a practical guide for the systemic treatment of BTC in Canada, providing valuable insights into the current and future treatment landscape for this challenging disease.
The Connected Life: Using Access Technology at Home, at School and in the Community
Authors: Millett Pam
Published: July 2023

Hearing technologies such as hearing aids, cochlear implants and bone-anchored devices provide students with hearing loss with far greater access to auditory information (and most importantly, to spoken language) than even a decade ago. However, in a student’s daily life, many situations arise where effective communication and participation can be comprised by factors such as distance, noise, reverberation, difficulty hearing peer input, missing or obscured visual information (e.g., due to masks during the COVID-19 pandemic), speakers with accents or poor auditory/visual quality (e.g., on the phone or during online learning). Access technologies such as remote microphone systems, wireless connectivity platforms and captioning can be used to supplement and/or clarify auditory and visual information, so that students can fully participate in all aspects of their lives. This article discusses how access technologies can provide support for students in preschool, elementary, secondary and postsecondary education. The importance of universal design for access to public spaces, such as schools and community spaces, to ensure that individuals with hearing loss live in an equitable and inclusive world are also discussed.
Characterization, at Partial Loads, of the Combustion and Emissions of a Dual-Fuel Engine Burning Diesel and a Lean Gas Surrogate
Authors: Diané Ali , Yomi Gounkaou Woro , Zongo Sidiki , Daho Tizane , Jeanmart Hervé
Published: July 2023

For decentralized power generation in West Africa, gas from a small biomass gasification unit can be used as the main fuel in a dual-fuel engine with diesel as the pilot fuel. To study the combustion in this type of engine (Lister Petter), experiments were conducted with a surrogate gas composed of liquefied petroleum gas and nitrogen (LPGN2), the energy context of which is similar to that of syngas. The tests were conducted at different loads and for different diesel substitution rates. The combustion analysis showed that the LPGN2 mixture had an overall behaviour similar to neat diesel, while the pressure peaks were lower in dual-fuel mode. The results also indicated a longer ignition delay and a pronounced diffusive combustion phase leading to a lower indicated mean effective pressure with gas. The fuel efficiencies remained low in both mono- and dual-fuel operation. The relative instability of the combustion in dual-fuel mode gave rise to an increase in the coefficient of variation (COVIMEP). Compared to neat diesel, the engine running at low loads in dual-fuel mode showed higher emission levels of CO, a slight reduction of 2.5% of CO2 and a substantial decrease of 73% for nitrogen oxides.
Analysis of Energy Recovery from Municipal Solid Waste and Its Environmental and Economic Impact in Tulkarm, Palestine
Authors: Salah Wael A. , Atatri Manar , Zaid Aya , Abuhafeza Rama , Abuhelwa Mai , Bashir Mohammed J. K. , Abu Zneid Basem
Published: July 2023

Municipal solid waste management (SWM) is one of the most useful applications of renewable energy, supporting the market for renewable energy and assisting in environmental protection by reducing emissions. Sustainability is one of the key issues with solid waste management systems in developing countries, including Palestine. Waste-to-energy (WTE) technology is one of the greatest strategies for effectively managing solid waste. This study focuses mostly on waste management in Palestine’s Tulkarm area. We conducted an evaluation of the potential of energy recovery from municipal solid waste through a number of approaches, such as incineration, gasification, anaerobic digestion, and landfilling. Additionally, the implications on the environment, human health, and economics were investigated. The results showed that anaerobic digestion recovered around 5156.15 kWh per day; whereas, incineration and gasification recovered about 40,986.60 and 14,663.88 kWh per day, respectively. The least recovered energy amount was roughly 3563.87 kWh per day, which was generated by landfilling technology. Additionally, the environmental analysis showed that anaerobic digestion could save around 48,362 tons of CO2 annually; meanwhile, incineration and gasification could save about 384,424 and 137,538 tons of CO2, respectively. The lowest quantity of emissions could be saved by landfilling, with about 33,427 tons saved yearly. The energy cost savings associated with each technology were also estimated. The results of the energy savings estimation showed that incineration had the highest saving of USD 4918.12; gasification and anaerobic digestion saved USD 1759.67 and USD 618.74, respectively. Whereas, landfilling had the lowest saving of about USD 427.66. A careful analysis of all aspects related to each technology, in comparison to the available waste treatment techniques, was carried out to propose a solution to cover the energy deficit in Tulkarm as a primary goal. Anaerobic digestion was found to be more environmentally advantageous and economically feasible and thus can be recommended to decision-makers and investors.
Hydropower Unit State Evaluation Model Based on AHP and Gaussian Threshold Improved Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation
Authors: Xiao Boyi , Zeng Yun , Zou Yidong , Hu Wenqing
Published: July 2023

Because a single monitoring index cannot fully reflect the overall operating status of the hydropower unit, a comprehensive state evaluation model for hydropower units based on the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the Gaussian threshold improved fuzzy evaluation is proposed. First, the unit equipment was divided into a hierarchical system, and a three-tier structure system (target layer-project layer-index layer) of the unit was constructed, and the weight of each component in the system was determined by the comprehensive weighting method. Secondly, according to the characteristics of the normal distribution of the historical health data of the unit, the upper and lower limits of the index were determined based on the Gaussian threshold principle, the real-time monitoring index degradation degree was calculated according to the index limit, and the degradation degree was applied to the fuzzy evaluation model to obtain the fuzzy judgment matrix. The result of assessment was divided into four sections: good, qualified, vigilant, and abnormal. Finally, combined with the unit hierarchical structure system, the weighted calculation of the fuzzy judgment matrix of each indicator, the overall fuzzy judgment matrix of the upper-level indicators of the unit was obtained, and the operating status of the unit was judged according to the matrix. Taking a real power plant unit as an example, the model was verified, and compared with other evaluation methods, the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed method were verified. In addition, the method proposed in this paper effectively solved the problems of index weighting and index limit determination in the existing model of unit condition evaluation.
A Comprehensive Situation Awareness Measurement Method for Analyzing the Operators’ Situation Awareness of Multi-Module High Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactor Plants
Authors: Miao Runfa , Jia Qianqian , Li Duo , Dong Zhe
Published: July 2023

For multi-modular nuclear power plants under the scheme of multiple nuclear steam supply system (NSSS) modules driving a single steam turbine, the NSSS modules are coupled tightly with each other by the common turbine, giving more complex normal operation with respect to the single-modular plants. To limit the operation cost of multi-modular plants, one operator is assigned to monitor and control two or more modules, whose feasibility should be verified. Combined with the characteristics of multi-module control rooms and multi-module running tasks, this paper designs a comprehensive situation awareness measurement method that combines SART, NASA-TLX (NASA Task Load Index), and eye movement tracking methods. The SART, NASA-TLX, and gaze entropy are adopted to measure the operators’ SA, and a series of accident handling experiments are performed on a full-scale simulator to gain enough data for analysis. The operators’ eye trajectories on the human–machine interface (HMI) during the experiments are all recorded for calculating the gaze entropy. Both the SART and NASA-TLX scales are filled by the operators after finishing the experiments. The experiment results show that the difference in operators’ workload and SA amongst all the experimental scenarios is limited, even between the toughest and tenderest scenarios, indicating the feasibility of one operator driving two NSSS modules simultaneously.
Soil Nutrient Availability Regulates Microbial Community Composition and Enzymatic Activities at Different Soil Depths along an Elevation Gradient in the Nanling Nature Reserve, China
Authors: Liu Mengyun , Huang Fangfang , Huang Yuhui , Gan Xianhua , Li Yifan , Wang Min
Published: July 2023

Improving our understanding of how soil microbial community composition and enzyme activities vary with elevation will elucidate the impact of climate change on ecosystem function. We collected soil samples at three elevations (1000 m, 1200 m, 1400 m) from two soil depths in a subtropical forest in the Nanling Nature Reserve to analyze soil nutrient availability and the Gram-positive (GP) to Gram-negative (GN) bacteria ratio. We conducted a vector analysis of soil enzymatic stoichiometry to examine the spatial distribution of soil microbial C, N, and P limitations. The soil C:N ratio decreased with increasing elevation. The GP:GN ratio and vector length (read-outs of relative C versus nutrient limitation) were the highest at 1400 m due to lower C availability. At an elevation of 1200 m, lower P availability was reflected in higher soil C:P and N:P ratios and lower GP:GN ratios, as lower P availability suppressed microbial C decomposition. Furthermore, the GP:GN ratio and vector length showed contrasting responses to variations in soil depth. The validation of enzyme vector analysis to capture the responses of microbial community composition to soil properties is dependent on environmental conditions and should be considered in the development of future soil organic C (SOC) dynamics models.
Distribution of Growth Stresses in Eucalyptus nitens Maiden Logs Immersed in Water
Authors: Rozas Carlos , Burgos Ricardo , Opazo Alexander , Moreno Pablo , Erazo Oswaldo , Lasserre Jean Pierre
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of water immersion on the release of growth stresses in 17-year-old Eucalyptus nitens logs. A total of 18 of 90 trees evaluated in the field were selected. The average diameter at the height breast of all the trees was 37 cm. The first section of the tree, from the stump to 2.44 m, was used. Three stress levels (low, medium, and high) were established. Six logs were studied for each level, which was divided into two groups: three for control and three for water immersion. Peripheral longitudinal strains on standing trees, freshly felling, and after the immersion process were determined by an extensometer. The deflection of the sawn timber and log-end splitting before and after air-drying were evaluated. In addition, the distribution of growth stresses was determined. The results showed that deflection, the log-end splitting index, and stress distribution were reduced in the three levels. The water immersion method allowed a reduction of growth stresses in Eucalyptus nitens logs.
Intellectual and Behavioral Phenotypes of Smith–Magenis Syndrome: Comparisons between Individuals with a 17p11.2 Deletion and Pathogenic RAI1 Variant
Authors: Linders Cathelijne C. , van Eeghen Agnies M. , Zinkstok Janneke R. , van den Boogaard Marie-José , Boot Erik
Published: July 2023

Aim: Smith–Magenis syndrome (SMS) is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a 17p11.2 deletion or pathogenic variant in the RAI1 gene. SMS is associated with developmental delay, intellectual disability (ID), and major sleep and behavioral disturbances. To explore how genetic variants may affect intellectual functioning and behavior, we compared intellectual and behavioral phenotypes between individuals with a 17p11.2 deletion and pathogenic RAI1 variant. Method: We reviewed available clinical records from individuals (aged 0–45 years) with SMS, ascertained through a Dutch multidisciplinary SMS specialty clinic. Results: We included a total of 66 individuals (n = 47, 71.2% with a 17p11.2 deletion and n = 19, 28.8% with a pathogenic RAI1 variant) for whom data were available on intellectual functioning, severity of ID (n = 53), and behavioral problems assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL, n = 39). Median full-scale IQ scores were lower (56.0 vs. 73.5, p = 0.001) and the proportion of individuals with more severe ID was higher (p = 0.01) in the 17p11.2 deletion group. Median total CBCL 6–18 scores (73.5 vs. 66.0, p = 0.02) and scores on the sub-scales somatic complaints (68.0 vs. 57.0, p = 0.001), withdrawn/depressed behavior (69.5 vs. 55.0, p = 0.02), and internalizing behavior (66.0 vs. 55.0, p = 0.002) were higher in the RAI1 group. Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that 17p11.2 deletions are associated with a lower level of intellectual functioning and less internalizing of problems compared to pathogenic RAI1 variants. The findings of this study may contribute to personalized-management strategies in individuals with SMS.
Prenatal Chromosomal Microarray Analysis: Does Increased Resolution Equal Increased Yield?
Authors: Mitrakos Anastasios , Kosma Konstantina , Makrythanasis Periklis , Tzetis Maria
Published: July 2023

Chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) is considered a first-tier test for patients with developmental disabilities and congenital anomalies and is also routinely applied in prenatal diagnosis. The current consensus size cut-off for reporting copy number variants (CNVs) in the prenatal setting ranges from 200 Kb to 400 Kb, with the intention of minimizing the impact of variants of uncertain significance (VUS). Very limited data are currently available on the application of higher resolution platforms prenatally. The aim of this study is to investigate the feasibility and impact of applying high-resolution CMA in the prenatal setting. To that end, we report on the outcomes of applying CMA with a size cut-off of 20 Kb in 250 prenatal samples and discuss the findings and diagnostic yield and also provide follow-up for cases with variants of uncertain significance. Overall, 19.6% (49) showed one or more chromosomal abnormalities, with the findings classified as Pathogenic (P) or Likely Pathogenic (LP) in 15.6% and as VUS in 4%. When excluding the cases with known familial aberrations, the diagnostic yield was 12%. The smallest aberration detected was a 32 Kb duplication of the 16p11.2 region. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that prenatal diagnosis with a high-resolution aCGH platform can reliably detect smaller CNVs that are often associated with neurodevelopmental phenotypes while providing an increased diagnostic yield, regardless of the indication for testing, with only a marginal increase in the VUS incidence. Thus, it can be an important tool in the prenatal setting.
Improving the Estimation of the Occurrence Time of an Impending Major Earthquake Using the Entropy Change of Seismicity in Natural Time Analysis
Authors: Varotsos Panayiotis A. , Sarlis Nicholas V. , Skordas Efthimios S. , Nagao Toshiyasu , Kamogawa Masashi , Flores-Márquez E. Leticia , Ramírez-Rojas Alejandro , Perez-Oregon Jennifer
Published: July 2023

This article is focused on a new procedure concerning a more accurate identification of the occurrence time of an impending major earthquake (EQ). Specifically, we first recapitulate that, as was recently shown [P. Varotsos et al., Communications in Nonlinear Science and Numerical Simulation 125 (2023) 107370], natural time analysis of seismicity supplemented with the non-additive Tsallis entropy Sq leads to a shortening of the time window of an impending major EQ. This has been shown for the Tohoku mega-EQ of magnitude M9 that occurred in Japan on 11 March 2011, which is the largest event ever recorded in Japan. Here, we also show that such a shortening of the time window of an impending mainshock can be achieved for major, but smaller EQs, of the order of M8 and M7. In particular, the following EQs are treated: the Chiapas M8.2 EQ, which is Mexico’s largest EQ for more than a century that took place on 7 September 2017 near the coast of Chiapas state in Mexico, the 19 September 2017 M7.1 EQ that occurred within the Mexican flat slab, and the M7.1 Ridgecrest EQ on 6 July 2019 in California.
Physical Exercise and Occupational Therapy at Home to Improve the Quality of Life in Subjects Affected by Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Cerasola Dario , Argano Christiano , Chiovaro Valeria , Trivic Tatjana , Scepanovic Tijana , Drid Patrik , Corrao Salvatore
Published: July 2023

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease that affects synovial membranes and typically causes joint pain and swelling. The resulting disability of RA is due to the erosion of cartilage and bone from the inflamed synovial tissue. Occupational therapy is a strategy and technique to minimize the joints’ fatigue and effort. At the same time, physical exercise reduces the impact of systemic manifestations and improves symptoms in RA. This study investigates the role of a 30-day joint economy intervention (integration of physical exercise and occupational therapy) at home on the quality of life of subjects with RA. Methods: One hundred and sixty outpatients with RA were enrolled in a single-center trial with PROBE design and were divided into the intervention group (IG), which combined joint protection movements and physical exercise to maintain muscle tone at home, and the control group (CG). Both groups included 80 patients. In all patients, data from the disease activity score (DAS 28), health assessment questionnaire (HAQ), and short-form health survey (SF-12) “Italian version” were collected. In addition, to IG, a brochure was distributed, and the joint economy was explained, while to CG, the brochure only was distributed. The comparison between groups was made using Fisher’s exact test for contingency tables and the z-test for the comparison of proportions. The non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test was used to compare quantitative variables between groups. The Wilcoxon signed-ranked test was used for post-intervention versus baseline comparisons. Results: Among the recruited patients, 54% were female. The mean age was 58.0 (42.4–74.7) for the CG and 54.0 (39.7–68.3) for the IG. Patients included in the IG had a higher cumulative illness rating scale for the evaluation of severity and comorbidity index (2.81 vs. 2.58; 2.91 vs. 2.59, respectively), as well as morning stiffness (33.8 vs. 25.0), even if not significant compared with CG patients. Our results indicate that, after 30 days of joint economy intervention at home, the DAS28 erythrocyte sedimentation rate (esr) and DAS28 C-reactive protein (crp), HAQ, and SF-12 mental component score were significantly improved (p = 0.005, p = 0.004, p = 0.009, and p = 0.010, respectively). Conclusions: Our findings show that the combination of physical exercise and occupational therapy positively affects patients’ quality of life with RA considering disease activity, global health status, and mental health.
“I See What You Mean”—A Case Study of the Interactional Foundation of Building a Working Alliance in Care Decisions Involving an Older Couple Living with Cognitive Decline
Authors: Nilsson Elin , Olaison Anna
Published: July 2023

Background: Social workers have a key role in needs assessment meetings with families dealing with dementia, providing information, support, and advocacy, while also assessing needs and making decisions about care services for several parties. These contacts are especially important during the introduction of home care services, where often the person has previously relied on informal support from relatives. The needs assessment process entails the involvement of all present parties, with the aim to reach a mutual agreement, a working alliance, regarding which services to apply for. Purpose: The aim of this case study is to explore how the participants, by means of different conversational practices, jointly create a working alliance between the different parties in one family. The study provides insights into the process of co-constructing a working alliance in the needs assessment process for elder care services. Methods: This article addresses the process by which social workers build a working alliance in a multi-party conversation with a family living with cognitive decline; a meeting that lasted 50 min. In this case study, we benefit from an inductive and detailed conversation analytic methodology. The theoretical framework of working alliances in institutional interaction has informed the analysis. Results: The findings illustrate how the social worker in this case study involves all parties in the decision regarding care services and explores the use of the conversational practices of mitigations, positive framing, adding information, and positioning, as a “we” achieve mutual agreement toward the end of several sequences. Conclusions: Drawing on the results of this case study, we argue that multi-party interaction involving relatives enables diversity in role-taking, where the professional, for instance, can pursue a more empathic role. Also, our results indicate that minimal agreement to a proposal is sufficient in a multi-party interaction involving clients with cognitive decline.
Conscientious Objection and Other Motivations for Refusal to Treat in Hastened Death: A Systematic Review
Authors: Martins-Vale Madalena , Pereira Helena P. , Marina Sílvia , Ricou Miguel
Published: July 2023

Background: Conscientious objection (CO) in the context of health care arises when a health care professional (HCP) refuses to participate in a certain procedure because it is not compatible with their ethical or moral principles. Refusal to treat in health care includes, in addition to CO, other factors that may lead the HCP not to want to participate in a certain procedure. Therefore, we can say that CO is a form of refusal of treatment based on conscience. Hastened death has become an increasingly reality around the world, being a procedure in which not all HCPs are willing to participate. There are several factors that can condition the HCPs’ refusal to treat in this scenario. Methods: With the aim of identifying these factors, we performed a systematic review, following the PRISMA guidelines. On 1 October 2022, we searched for relevant articles on Pubmed, Web of Science and Scopus databases. Results: From an initial search of 693 articles, 12 were included in the final analysis. Several motivations that condition refusal to treat were identified, including legal, technical, social, and CO. Three main motivations for CO were also identified, namely religious, moral/secular, and emotional/psychological motivations. Conclusions: We must adopt an understanding approach respecting the position of each HCP, avoiding judgmental and discriminatory positions, although we must ensure also that patients have access to care. The identification of these motivations may permit solutions that, while protecting the HCPS’ position, may also mitigate potential problems concerning patients’ access to this type of procedure.
Functional Analysis of SmMYB39 in Salt Stress Tolerance of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)
Authors: Jiang Zheng , Shen Lei , He Jie , Du Lihui , Xia Xin , Zhang Longhao , Yang Xu
Published: July 2023

Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.), a widely cultivated vegetable of the Solanaceae family, faces significant challenges in growth and yield due to soil salinization. This study aimed to investigate the functional role of the transcription factor SmMYB39 in salt stress tolerance in eggplant. This investigation was conducted through the utilization of bioinformatics analysis, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), subcellular localization, validation of transcriptional activation activity, Virus-Induced Gene Silencing (VIGS), and protein interactome analysis. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that SmMYB39 has the closest relationship with SlMYB41, and its promoter contains multiple stress-responsive elements. qRT-PCR results demonstrated that SmMYB39 was significantly upregulated after 12 h of salt stress. Subcellular localization results indicated that the SmMYB39 protein is localized in the nucleus and exhibits transcriptional activation activity. Using VIGS, we observed that silencing of SmMYB39 led to reduced salt stress tolerance in eggplant. In addition, we have conducted research on the protein interactome of SmMYB39. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that SmMYB39 is a crucial transcription factor involved in salt stress response and has the potential to enhance salt tolerance in eggplant.
The Effect of Incentives on Facilitating User Engagement with Succulent Retailers’ Social Media Pages
Authors: Huang Li-Chun
Published: July 2023

Social media are an important approach for florists to reach consumers, and many florists have set incentives to encourage users to engage with their social media pages. However, various subjects can serve as rewards, but what is more effective for encouraging users to engage with the florists’ social media pages remains unknown. This study is intended to address this deficiency. The objectives of this study are as follows: (1) to explore the typology of the incentives used by succulent retailers to promote user engagement; (2) to compare the difference across various types of incentives in regard to the effect on promoting user engagement with succulent retailers’ social media pages. Data were gained from the succulent retailers’ empirical practices on their Facebook brand pages. As a result, 2602 Facebook posts were downloaded and analyzed via content analysis to explore the typology of the incentives applied by succulent retailers. The number of clicks on likes, comments, shares, and emojis by users was recorded as the index of user engagement with the post. The effect of various incentives on user engagement with the succulent retailers’ FB pages was analyzed via the statistical approach of MANOVA. The study results showed that the incentives applied by succulent retailers can be classified into three categories: economic incentives; social incentives; mixed incentives, which contain both economic and social values. The economic incentives included discounts, gifts, sweepstakes, and bidding, while social incentives included gratitude to customers, leaving a question mark, and inviting users to respond. The statistical results revealed that economic incentives are more likely to encourage users’ emotional engagement, while social incentives in the form of inviting users to react are more significant for encouraging users’ behavioral engagement in terms of leaving comments on posts.
Predicting Cyberbullying Perpetration in US Elementary School Children
Authors: Barlett Christopher P.
Published: July 2023

Cyberbullying has emerged as a societal issue, and the majority of the research examining cyberbullying perpetration samples adolescent and/or emerging adult populations. A paucity of empirical attention has focused on young children (aged 8–10) regarding their cyberbullying frequency and predictors. The current study sampled 142 US youth aged 8–10 years and assessed their cyberbullying perpetration rate and cellular phone ownership. Results indicated that (a) older participants were more likely to cyberbully than their younger peers; (b) higher rates of cyberbullying were found for youth who already owned a cellular phone; and (c) an interaction between participant age and cellular phone ownership was found, suggesting that cyberbullying was highest for only the 10-year-old group who owned a cellular phone. These findings have implications for (a) parents, school administrators, health care providers, and anyone else interested in better understanding the predictors of cyberbullying perpetration; (b) intervention specialists focused on reducing cyberbullying in youth; and (c) a researcher interested in understanding the basic theoretical underpinnings of cyberbullying. Based on these findings, we recommend that (a) cyberbullying interventions be administered to youth as early as elementary school; (b) parents/guardians carefully consider the positive and negative consequences of youth cellular phone usage; and (c) increased communication between youth and parents/guardians concerning youth cellular phone activities.