bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First evidence of free-living Naegleria species in recreational lakes of Alberta, Canada
Authors: Dey Rafik , Dlusskaya Elena , Oloroso Mariem , Ashbolt Nicholas J.
Published: February 2023

Rising temperatures are increasing environmental habitats for thermotolerant pathogens, such as the so-called ‘brain-eating amoeba’, Naegleria fowleri. To the best of our knowledge, however, Naegleria species have not been reported in environmental water sources in Canada. We surveyed popular recreational lakes in Alberta, Canada during the summer bathing period to determine the presence or absence of Naegleria species. While N. fowleri was not isolated in this study, we identified other thermotolerant species, including Naegleria pagei, Naegleria gruberi, Naegleria jejuensis and Naegleria fultoni using culture-based methods, hence indicating the potential conditions to support N. fowleri. Ongoing monitoring and examination of water for pathogenic amoebae is recommended in order to assist in the public health management of water sources.
An improved ‘assessment on comprehensive index’ for drought risk through an iterative transformation of ‘spatiotemporal vector’: a case study of Anhui Province, China
Authors: Tang Ming , Xu Wentao , Xie Qianchen , Wu Yuze , Li Yanlei , Zhang Huanwei
Published: February 2023

The unique climate, topography and soil conditions of Anhui Province in China are the main causes of drought, which is one of the limiting factors of economic and social development. Characterized by low data requirement, strong operability and flexibility, the conventional ‘assessment based on comprehensive index’ (ACI) is used to assess the drought risk, the index obtained by which can only represent the relative risk level among the objects and has no spatiotemporal characteristic. Therefore, a new method based on the iterative transformation of spatiotemporal vector (DRST) is proposed to solve this defect. The main conclusions are as follows: (1) The drought risk matrices obtained by DRS and DRT cannot quantify the drought risk level of subregions in each year absolutely. (2) The drought risk values obtained by DRST can be used to compare the drought risk from temporal and spatial dimensions at the same time, and both the drought-affected regions and the drought risk level are consistent with the statistical data. The new method expands the subsequent utilization space of the ‘assessment index’. For example, the allocation of drought-resistant resources (water resources, drought-resistant funds, etc.) can be determined according to these indexes.
Analysis of potential nature-based solutions for the Mun River Basin, Thailand
Authors: Penny Jessica , Alves Priscila B. R. , De-Silva Yenushi , Chen Albert S. , Djordjević Slobodan , Shrestha Sangam , Babel Mukand
Published: February 2023

Despite the growth in research and applications of nature-based solutions (NBS) within the literature, there are limited applications in South East Asia, moreover studies which quantitatively assess the impacts of NBS could have on hazard reduction are scarce. This paper addresses this gap by developing and validating MCDA-GIS analysis to map how potential nature strategies could mitigate flood hazard if applied within the Mun River Basin, Thailand. Through a literature review, the top three solutions for flood and drought hazards were found: wetlands, re/afforestation, and changing crop types. These strategies were reviewed and validated with a MCDA-GIS methodology, through land use change (LUC) maps to depict different future scenarios. The results found that flood hazard did decrease when NBS were implemented in the catchment, especially for A/Reforestation, and to a greater extent when a combination of NBS were applied. This article provides specific insights into the current gaps of NBS publications, specifically considering the case of the Mun River Basin, Thailand.
Podstawy formalne, organizacja i przebieg edukacji leśnej społeczeństwa prowadzonej przez Lasy Państwowe
Authors: Wierzbicka Anna , Czołnik Barbara
Published: February 2023

Artykuł prezentuje w sposób skondensowany rozwój edukacji leśnej w Polsce prowadzonej przez Lasy Państwowe. Celem artykułu jest przedstawienie podstaw prawnych edukacji leśnej, ewolucji jej definicji oraz zadań edukatorów leśnych w Europie i w Polsce. Treść kierowana jest do badaczy pracujących nad rozwojem pedagogiki lasu jako obszaru problemowego, w którym ekosystem lasu i jego najbliższego otoczenia może pełnić rolę środowiska wychowawczego. Autorki starają się podkreślić kluczową rolę Lasów Państwowych, instytucji, która od lat 90. XX wieku dynamicznie rozwija tę część edukacji ekologicznej. Artykuł zawiera też krótkie opisy najistotniejszych ośrodków naukowo-dydaktycznych związanych z rozwojem edukacji leśnej w Polsce, w tym działalność Stowarzyszenia Edukatorów Leśnych.
Pomoc wychowawczo-pastoralna świadczona więźniom w oparciu o koncepcję salutogenetyczną Aarona Antonovsky’ego
Authors: Kulesz Zbigniew , Maier Kathrin , Michalski Jarosław
Published: February 2023

W publikacji opisano nowe perspektywy pomocy osobom odbywającym karę pozbawienia wolności w oparciu o koncepcję salutogenetyczną Aarona Antonovsky’ego. Analizie poddane zostały poszczególne elementy wymienione przez autora konstruktu poczucia koherencji, które mogą znaleźć zastosowanie w szeroko pojętej resocjalizacji, ze szczególnym podkreśleniem roli duszpasterstwa więziennego oraz pracy wychowawczej. Badania skupiły się na określeniu celów duszpasterstwa więziennego, specyfiki środowiska odosobnienia oraz koncepcji salutogenezy. Na podstawie otrzymanych wyników zaproponowane zostały nowe strategie naprawcze.
Learning about learning as an essential element of high-quality education
Authors: Klimska Agnieszka , Rutkowski Michał
Published: February 2023

This article highlights the issue of educational efficiency and enhancing the quality of education, referring to Sustainable Development Goal 4. It has been recognized that much attention is now being paid to implementing educational tools to improve teaching, teacher training, or the provision of appropriate infrastructure. In contrast, little space is dedicated to teaching students to use effective learning methods. The text cites research on the range of practices undertaken during learning. The final section proposes models for enhancing the quality of education by strengthening the “learning” component that takes into account specific variables that directly and indirectly affect the acquisition of knowledge and skills.
Abrocitinib: First Globally Approved Selective Janus Kinase-1 Inhibitor
for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: De Surya K.
Published: February 2023

Atopic dermatitis is epidermal hyperplasia, skin barrier dysfunction, and the
aberrant activation of immune cells. Janus kinase (JAK) is a family of cytoplasmic nonreceptor
tyrosine kinases that consists of four members, such as JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, and
TYK2. The JAK signaling pathway plays a critical role in a wide range of autoimmune
and inflammatory diseases, including atopic dermatitis. Abrocitinib is an orally bioavailable
and selective JAK1 inhibitor, and it was approved in January, 2022, for the treatment
of atopic dermatitis. The chemical structure and physical properties of abrocitinib, its synthesis,
mechanism of action, and pharmacokinetic profile are summarized.
Current Strategies for Promoting the Large-scale Production of
Exosomes
Authors: Qu Qing , Fu Bin , Long Yong , Liu Zi-Yu , Tian Xiao-Hong
Published: February 2023

Exosomes, as nanoscale biological vesicles, have been shown to have great potential for biomedical
applications. However, the low yield of exosomes limits their application. In this review, we
focus on methods to increase exosome yield. Two main strategies are used to increase exosome production,
one is based on genetic manipulation of the exosome biogenesis and release pathway, and the
other is by pretreating parent cells, changing the culture method or adding different components to the
medium. By applying these strategies, exosomes can be produced on a large scale to facilitate their
practical application in the clinic.
Thromboembolic Disorder in COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Lee Shawn , Gunderson Joseph , Mushtaq Raza
Published: February 2023

Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a global pandemic with over 600 million cases identified. In
addition to extensive pulmonary complications of COVID-19, one feature unique to many patients
with severe COVID-19 infections is coagulopathy with a rising prevalence of multi-systemic thromboembolic
manifestations. Global data suggests a relationship between coagulopathy and mortality. In
this review, we highlight multiple COVID-19 thromboembolic complications with emphasis on pathophysiology,
clinical management, and radiological manifestations.
Effect of Hybrid Compounds of Stilbene and Pentadienone on Inhibition of Tubulin Polymerization
Authors: Park Jihyun , Koh Dongsoo , Lee Young Han , Lim Yoongho , Shin Soon Young
Published: February 2023

Introduction:

Tubulin polymerization inhibitors induce cancer cell death; therefore, they can be developed as chemotherapeutic agents. We hypothesized that hybrid compounds, including the trans-stilbene moiety contained in resveratrol and penta-1,4-dien-3-one contained in curcumin, could inhibit tubulin polymerization.

Methods:

Twenty-six hybrid stilbene and pentadienone compounds were designed and synthesized. The cytotoxicity of the hybrid compounds against MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells was determined using a clonogenic long-term survival assay. The relationship between cytotoxicity and structural properties was evaluated. Biological activities, including inhibition of tubulin polymerization and cell cycle progression, were investigated to select compounds with excellent anticancer properties. The molecular binding mode between the selected compound and the α,β-tubulin dimers was investigated.

Results:

Twenty-six hybrid stilbene and pentadienone compounds were designed and synthesized. Among them, compound 13 exhibited the highest inhibitory effect on the clonogenicity of MDA-MB-231 cells. Compound 13 induced the destabilization of tubulins and inhibited cell cycle progression at the G2/M phase. Through in silico molecular docking analysis, compound 13 was predicted to bind to the colchicine binding site of α, β-tubulin.

Conclusion:

The stilbene and pentadienone hybrid compound 13 has a binding mode similar to that of colchicine. Compound 13 inhibited the clonogenicity of MDA-MB-231 cells through a mechanism that destabilizes tubulin polymerization, leading to cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase.
Neurosensory Alterations and Interleukins Cascade in SARS-CoV-2
Infection - Results from a Retrospective Cohort of COVID-19 Inpatients
Authors: Pia  Cazzolla Angela , Santacroce Luigi , Lovero Roberto , Brescia Vincenzo , Ciavarella Domenico , Spirito Francesca , Colella Marica , Bilancia Massimo , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Di Serio Francesca
Published: February 2023

Objective:

The aim of this study was to relate IL-6 and IL-1β serum levels with the severity
of olfactory disorders and with the type of unperceived odors.

Methods:

82 inpatients (45 men aged 62.3 ± 14.2 and 37 women aged 57.1 ± 12.8) with only smell
dysfunctions were divided into two groups. The evaluation of the smell disorder was carried out with
a questionnaire to define which sensitivity is most compromised in COVID-19 patients. Cytokine
levels were measured with chemiluminescence and ELISA assay. Statistical analyses were performed
with the Wilcoxon Rank test, Welch's T-test, and Mann-Whitney test (p < 0.05).

Results:

Statistically significant differences in IL-6 and IL-1 β levels were found in moderate disease
patients when there was an impairment of trigeminal sensitivity (p <0.05) and trigeminal and olfactory
sensitivity.

Conclusions:

The results obtained showed that in COVID-19 patients the impairment of trigeminal
sensitivity in association with olfactory sensitivity was more prevalent in moderate than in mild
forms.
Photodynamic and Anti-VEGF Therapy for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy - ‘Real World’ Outcomes in a Caucasian Population
Authors: Gilmour Kenneth M. , Young David , Jamison Aaron , Precup Monica , Gilmour David F.
Published: February 2023

Background:

The prevalence of polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) is significantly higher amongst Asian populations compared to Caucasian, and evidence regarding the clinical outcomes of Caucasian patients is limited.

Objective:

This retrospective study sought to investigate real-world clinical outcomes of Caucasian PCV patients treated with polypoidal verteporfin photodynamic therapy (PDT) in combination with anti-VEGF therapy up to 36 months post-treatment.

Methods:

Consecutive PCV patients who received PDT between 2011 and 2017 were included. Mean change in visual acuity (VA) measured by ETDRS letter score and mean change in central subfield thickness (CST) were the main outcome measures. Data were collected at baseline, 3, 12, 24 and 36 months. Regression analyses were carried out on pre-treatment clinical features to determine if there were any factors associated with a good visual outcome (better than or equal to 70 ETDRS letters at 12 months).

Results:

Seventy six patients (96% Caucasian) and seventy eight eyes were included in the analysis. Mean change in VA was -1, -4, and 0 ETDRS letters at 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. CST was reduced by a mean of -51, -54, and -55 microns at 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. Better pre-treatment VA was the only pre-treatment clinical feature associated with a good visual outcome at 12 months (OR 1.16, p<0.001).

Conclusion:

PDT, in combination with anti-VEGF therapy, maintains VA and may reduce the anti-VEGF therapy burden in Caucasian patients with PCV. Better pre-treatment VA is associated with a good visual outcome.
Numerical Analysis of Residual Stresses Effect in Multi-materials
Authors: Ramdoum Sara
Published: February 2023

Background:

In this study, the effect of mechanical and physical properties of the
metal and temperature is highlighted. The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of these
stresses on multi-materials. This work aimed to conduct a three-dimensional numerical study by
the finite element method on the levels and distributions of the stresses in the
Al2O3/NI/HAYNES multi-materials. These stresses of thermal and mechanical origin are generally
detrimental to the service life of multi-material.

Methods:

The use of numerical resolution by finite element method is the most suitable for complex
mechanical problems. It allows a more in-depth analysis of all points of the structure. In this
study, a fundamental tool was constructed to resolve the mechanical behavior of materials subjected
to complex solicitations. Therefore, the ABAQUS calculation code version 6.14 was used
to analyze the residual stresses.

Results:

By interpreting the results in terms of stress variation, we identified the areas at risk; in
particular, the nature of a joint effect plays a decisive role in the assembly of the right material in
its mechanical resistance. This nature is defined in terms of stiffness (Young's modulus) and differential
expansion (coefficient of thermal expansion).

Conclusion:

The presence of strong residual stresses can constitute a risk of damage to several materials.
The difference between the coefficients of thermal expansion of the two materials (metal and ceramic)
linked together induces, in these two constituents, normal internal stresses. This difference determines
the level and distribution of these constraints. Moreover, the sign of this difference determines
the state of the normal stresses.
Communication challenges faced by Libyan students in Indonesia
Authors: Almabrok Mohamed AB AH
Published: February 2023

Communication issue becomes one of the phenomena commonly observed among foreign students, including those studying in Indonesia. This study aims to analyze the communication challenges faced by Libyan students in Yogyakarta and their adjustment to to face the challenges. The data were from Libyan students at a number of universities in Yogyakarta, collected through questionnaire, which was designed to elicit qualitative descriptive replies. The questionnaire consists of 5 short essays and 5 yes/no questions related to the students’ experiences. The research participants were 15 Libyan male overseas students aged 21 to 35 years who joined voluntarily in this study. The findings show that the students’ competence in Bahasa Indonesia and there are two main difficulties encountered: communication issues with the local people due to the local language used by most of the local people and a gap between the students' and professors' language competency during their learning activities. Moreover, other challenges stem from varying academic workloads, teaching techniques, and assessment systems that compel international students to study as a team with the local students despite some of them lacking the ability to fluently communicate using English.
Luminescence transformation mechanisms of indocyanine green dye in the presence of gold nanorods
Authors: Kondratenko T. S.  , Chevychelova T. A.  , Ovchinnikov O. V.  , Smirnov M. S.  , Perepelitsa A. S.
Published: February 2023

Spectral-luminescent manifestations of the plasmon-exciton interaction between gold nanorods (Au NRs) with average length and diameter of 35± 5 nm and 9± 2 nm, passivated by molecules of cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and the indocyanine green dye (ICG) molecules are found. Extinguishing of the ICG luminescence near Au NRs and its buildup are detected at spacial separation of hybrid nanosystem components achieved by a spherical shell of SiO2 with an average thickness of 26±5 nm formed on the Au NRs. The amplification of the luminescence with growth of the dielectric shell is provided due to blocking of steric transformations of ICG polymethine chain when the interaction emerges between the dye and the silicious shell, and the Purcell effect. Keywords: luminescence, indocyanine green, gold nanorods, Purcell effect.
Diagnostic of ICF target inhomogeneous compression by characteristic X-ray radiography
Authors: Andreev A.A.  , Bespalov D.S.  , Platonov K.Yu.  , Sedov M.V.
Published: February 2023

A scheme is considered and the parameters of a multipulse X-ray source for obtaining images of the compressed state of a primary laser thermonuclear target are determined. As an example of a source, we consider the characteristic radiation of an iron secondary target with focusing on it of several picosecond laser pulses of subrelativistic intensity. The proposed technique makes it possible to determine the relative large-scale inhomogeneity of the energy release of laser beams that irradiated the thermonuclear target, based on the results of X-ray diffraction of a compressed thermonuclear target, and to estimate the decrease in the neutron yield caused by the asymmetry of the compressed target. Keywords: picosecond laser plasma, characteristic X-ray radiation, target in laser thermonuclear fusion, iron secondary target, backlighter image.
Об одном "парадоксе" в теории рассеяния
Authors: Апресян Л.А.
Published: February 2023

The solution of the "paradox" in scattering theory is considered, according to which the extinction cross section is expressed in terms of the forward scattering amplitude (the so-called "optical theorem"), whereas for a point source, and as a consequence, for any emitter located at a finite distance from the scatterer, a similar ratio is often written through a scattered field near the emitter, i.e. determined by "backscattering". A clear picture of the formation of radiation losses during the transition of energy from the source to the scatterer is presented. It is shown that although the field backscattered to the source determines the change in its radiation characteristics (the Purcell effect), the optical theorem includes an extinction factor which is generally related to the work of the incident wave on the currents induced in the scatterer. This factor passes into the forward scattering amplitude in the limiting case of a plane incident wave.
Modeling of Autonomous Microgrid Operated at Medium-Voltage Level and at Constant Frequency and Study of Its Voltage Profile
Authors: Zhang Daming
Published: February 2023

To increase power level in an autonomous microgrid, higher voltage is necessary. In this paper, detailed Matlab/Simulink modeling of a microgrid operated at medium-voltage level and at constant frequency has been conducted. Modified boost converter and medium-frequency transformer isolated DC/DC converter are adopted for both solar energy and wind energy harnessing in order for them to be connected with the microgrid. This paper further adopted a differential evolution (DE)-based method to carry out load flow analysis to work out the voltage at each bus. Results obtained from the DE method are nearly the same at some nodes or buses as those from Matlab/Simulink platform-based time-domain fixed-step modeling, while at other nodes they are very close to each other. Then DE method can be used to carry out load flow analysis in more complex microgrids with more nodes to overcome the limited modelling capability of Matlab/Simulink and other tools. Moreover, this new research effort also paves the way for the stability analysis of large-scale microgrids.
Employee Support During COVID-19 Using Compassionate Mind Training
Authors: Rose Alexandra , Tupper Max , Irons Chris
Published: February 2023

An individual’s wellbeing at work is now recognised as key, particularly for those in challenging environment’s such as health and social care. Focusing on the cultivation of (mindful) compassion has been shown to be an effective way of improving mental health. This service evaluation focused on a pilot drop-in group for council and NHS staff, informed by Compassionate Mind Training. It was facilitated during the COVID-19 pandemic, between April – August 2020. The group was evaluated by recording the number and characteristics of attendees and using a feedback survey focused on the acceptability of the group structure and content. Workload was a barrier to attendance. There were differences noted in terms of gender and area of employment of the attendees. The offer of a regular, short (30 minute) and virtual group during the working day seemed to facilitate participation. The group appeared acceptable as attendees indicated they improved their knowledge and understanding about group concepts and reported they had become more mindful and compassionate in everyday life. Participants appeared to value the range of meditations offered and group resources. The facilitators were struck by the sense of community that emerged. The group could be used in future research as a stand-alone programme to support staff wellbeing or perhaps as one part of a wider approach to support the development compassionate organisations.
Distance in Distant Care: Qualitative Content Analysis of Providers’ Experiences in Tele–Mental Care (Preprint)
Authors: Åhs Jill W , Ranheim Albertine , Mattelin Erica , Eriksson Henrik , Mazaheri Monir
Published: February 2023

UNSTRUCTURED
Privacy and Trust in Healthcare IoT Data Sharing: A Snapshot of the Users’ Perspectives (Preprint)
Authors: Fadrique Laura , Salim Shahan , Henne Kathryn , Wallace James , Morita Plinio Pelegrini
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Healthcare services in Canada are slowly shifting from in-hospital care to patient-centred, home-care services. Collecting and sharing personal data from individuals via Internet of Things (IoT) devices has become a critical part of this change, which can lead to better decision-making and better support for patients from healthcare providers. However, some challenges come from using technology, including concerns around trust in organizations holding individuals' data and privacy and security related to data sharing that needs to be considered as part of this new model of care.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigates users' trust in sharing their data collected using healthcare IoT devices via different organizations.

METHODS

This research project leveraged a literature review and online questionnaires to understand how general users of IoT for Health perceive and trust different types of organizations (large companies, government, healthcare providers, and insurance companies). A total of 400 participants were recruited using Mechanical Turk for the online questionnaire, using a between- subjects design. Each participant was presented with a scenario related to using various IoT technologies, information about data sharing, and a list of privacy concerns associated with specific organizations that handle health-related data. Based on this scenario, participants were asked to answer 16 trust-related questions. Results were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), followed by posthoc comparisons using the pairwise t-test with the Bonferroni correction.

RESULTS

The study showed no significant differences regarding privacy concerns (LConcern) in Canada, the United States (USA), and Europe (F (2, 389) = 0.736, P = .480). Overall levels of trust (Ltrust) in the USA varied significantly between large companies, government, healthcare providers, and insurance companies (F (3, 388) = 10.107, P < .05). The same results were observed in Canada, with a significant difference between the four types of organizations (F (3, 125) = 6.882, P < .05), USA (F (3, 128) = 4.488, P =.05), and in Europe, as well (F (3, 127) = 4.451, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest differences in users' perceptions of trust associated with the types of organizations. Additionally, levels of concern regarding privacy and data ownership varied among users. The findings identified differences in the perception of trust between the different regions of the participants.
Supervised Home-Based Exercise Prehabilitation in Unfit Patients Scheduled for Pancreatic Surgery: Protocol for a Multicenter Feasibility Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hildebrand Nicole D , Wijma Allard G , Bongers Bart C , Rensen Sander S , den Dulk Marcel , Klaase Joost M , Olde Damink Steven W M
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Morbidity rates in pancreatic surgery are high, and frail patients with low aerobic capacity are especially at risk of complications and require prophylactic interventions. Previous studies of small patient cohorts receiving intra-abdominal surgery have shown that an exercise prehabilitation program increases aerobic capacity, leading to better treatment outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we aim to assess the feasibility of a home-based exercise prehabilitation program in unfit patients scheduled for pancreatic surgery on a larger scale.

METHODS

In this multicenter study, adult patients scheduled for elective pancreatic surgery with a preoperative oxygen uptake (VO2) at the ventilatory anaerobic threshold ≤13 mL/kg/min or a VO2 at peak exercise ≤18 mL/kg/min will be recruited. A total of 30 patients will be included in the 4-week, home-based, partly supervised exercise prehabilitation program. The program comprises 25-minute high-intensity interval training on an advanced cycle ergometer 3 times a week. Training intensity will be based on steep ramp test performance (ie, a short-term maximal exercise test on a cycle ergometer), aiming to improve aerobic capacity. Twice a week, patients will perform functional task exercises to improve muscle function and functional mobility. A steep ramp test will be repeated weekly, and training intensity will be adjusted accordingly. Next to assessing the feasibility (participation rate, reasons for nonparticipation, adherence, dropout rate, reasons for dropout, adverse events, and patient and therapist appreciation) of this program, individual patients’ responses to prehabilitation on aerobic capacity, functional mobility, body composition, quality of life, and immune system factors will be evaluated.

RESULTS

Recruitment for this study began in January 2022 and is expected to be completed in the summer of 2023.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of this study will provide important clinical and scientific knowledge on the feasibility of a partly supervised home-based exercise prehabilitation program in a vulnerable patient population. This might ease the path to implementing prehabilitation programs in unfit patients undergoing complex abdominal surgery, such as pancreatic surgery.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05496777; https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05496777

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/46526
Microtemporal Dynamics of Dietary Intake, Physical Activity, and Impulsivity in Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Ecological Momentary Assessment Study Within Nutritional Psychiatry (Preprint)
Authors: Ruf Alea , Neubauer Andreas B , Koch Elena D , Ebner-Priemer Ulrich , Reif Andreas , Matura Silke
Published: February 2023

BACKGROUND

Increasing attention is being paid to lifestyle factors, such as nutrition and physical activity (PA), as potential complementary treatment options in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Previous research indicates that sugar and saturated fat intake may be linked to increased impulsivity, a core symptom of ADHD, whereas protein intake and PA may be related to reduced impulsivity. However, most studies rely on cross-sectional data that lack microtemporal resolution and ecological validity, wherefore questions of microtemporal dynamics (eg, is the consumption of foods high in sugar associated with increased impulsivity within minutes or hours?) remain largely unanswered. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) has the potential to bridge this gap.

OBJECTIVE

This study is the first to apply EMA to assess microtemporal associations among macronutrient intake, PA, and state impulsivity in the daily life of adults with and without ADHD.

METHODS

Over a 3-day period, participants reported state impulsivity 8 times per day (signal-contingent), recorded food and drink intake (event-contingent), and wore an accelerometer. Multilevel 2-part models were used to study the association among macronutrient intake, PA, and the probability to be impulsive as well as the intensity of impulsivity (ADHD: n=36; control: n=137).

RESULTS

No association between macronutrient intake and state impulsivity was found. PA was not related to the intensity of impulsivity but to a higher probability to be impulsive (ADHD: β=−.09, 95% CI −0.14 to −0.04; control: β=−.03, 95% CI −0.05 to −0.01). No evidence was found that the combined intake of saturated fat and sugar amplified the increase in state impulsivity and that PA alleviated the positive association between sugar or fat intake and state impulsivity.

CONCLUSIONS

Important methodological considerations are discussed that can contribute to the optimization of future EMA protocols. EMA research in the emerging field of nutritional psychiatry is still in its infancy; however, EMA is a highly promising and innovative approach as it offers insights into the microtemporal dynamics of psychiatric symptomology, dietary intake, and PA in daily life.
Social and Economic Needs and Contributions of the Citrus Industry in Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines
Authors: B. Ramel Marjorie
Published: February 2023

Using mixed methods, this study profiled the key actors of the citrus industry and ascertained the industry’s social and economic needs and contributions in Nueva Vizcaya. Findings revealed that the citrus actors’ work classification is diverse. They comprised plantation owners, farmers and traders who have sufficient years of experience in the industry. The top-most distributed products consist of Satsuma, Ponkan and Szinkom oranges. They distribute the citrus products in the province and in other regions but very few of them export abroad. On social needs, most informants desire to sustain their literacy and training as it is a way to enhance their knowledge and competencies. The distribution of personal protective gears, medicine aids, hospitalization benefit and regular safety inspection make them more secure and safe. Accordingly, the industry has a socializing effect since it offers them and family members employment opportunities and creates in them greater social value in performing their functions. Along economic needs, the key players are optimistic about current public utilities but are still in need of internet service, sanitation for safety purposes, regular waste management, sanitation, environment-friendly and sustainable farming, withholding and filing of their taxes, purchase of health and safety materials, investment on juice processing, fertilizers and pesticides, as well as making accessible the trade centers, creating more spacious trade centers, more fruit stalls and processing centers as these could help sustain the industry. Most participants claimed that the industry has helped them economically in the form of stable incomes, additional source of income, a non-hazardous work environment and health benefits. The identified gaps were varied and multifarious. They emanated from the research participants’ work-related demographics and social and economic needs.
El viaje hacia los pueblos del interior en la crónica contemporánea. Un nuevo margen para repensar los imaginarios de nación
Authors: Sabo Maria Jose
Published: February 2023

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo el estudio de una serie de crónicas de viajes hacia los pueblos del interior en escritores capitalinos —Caparrós, Uhart, Sánchez, Cristoff, Carrión, Guerriero y Moreno— alrededor de la década del 2000 en Argentina. Propongo pensar que este traslado reactiva la potencia del relato de viaje haciendo del espacio rural una cantera de reflexiones en torno a los imaginarios de nación y sus discursos fallidos de modernización. En este sentido, se procura “lo pueblerino” dentro del sistema literario en diálogo con el momento de crisis cultural que lo enmarca, en tanto espacialidad poco transitada por las propias escrituras cronísticas como así también por los abordajes críticos en la región. El artículo concluye registrando un acercamiento singular de estas crónicas al testimonio, mediante la inusitada apelación a la estrategia de la escucha dentro de la escritura y al acceso y apertura de “archivos domésticos”.
La lucha anticorrupción en Jalisco: la cimentación de un campo sociopolítico
Authors: Arellano Ríos Alberto
Published: February 2023

Este artículo hace un análisis político de un espacio sociopolítico: la lucha anticorrupción en Jalisco. Delinea un conglomerado de actores e instituciones que se articulan alrededor de él. Resalta lo que está en juego y traza las posiciones y relaciones de conflicto y cooperación. El texto detalla el Sistema Estatal Anticorrupción de Jalisco y analiza las trayectorias de los actores e instituciones implicadas en este campo social
Critical Evaluation of Urban Population distribution of Maharashtra state in India
Authors: Burrewar Smita Sunil , Das Bijay Kumar
Published: February 2023

Abstract: Maharashtra is the second most populous state of India with 45.23% population urbanized(India, 2011). It is the third largest state in terms of area. Urban population is dispersed in 35 districts. The aim of this paper is to evaluate urban population distribution among towns and cities. It also checks whether the population is statistically normally distributed within the urban areas. The objective is to study the city/town size distribution for the state of Maharashtra, India based on 2011 Census.
The Nurturing Food Sovereignty from the Peripheral Side: the Village Law and the Soul of Agriculture in Rural Development in Indonesia
Authors: Sujito Arie , Ghofur Mohammad
Published: February 2023

After the enactment of the Village Law, the opportunity for the village as the spearhead of food sovereignty is widely open and the Village Law is considered a soul for village development. Village’s main activities are agriculture, including the management of natural resources with the composition of the area as a place for rural settlements, government services, social services, and economic activities. Most of the population works in the primary sector, which has various challenges to reducing or even eliminating dependence on the global food market. Rural development and the orientation of village agricultural soul so far seem to go hand in hand but tend to be particular. This study aimed to study the primary sector of agriculture and food needs as the main political discourse with the subject of the village. The study was prepared using a qualitative methodology with secondary data and policy analysis. The political economy framework is used to see how far the potential and challenges ahead are toward Indonesia's food sovereignty, amidst the onslaught of neo-liberalism in the global food system. The findings show that Village Law seeks to restore the village's dignity so that it becomes an empowered village faced with the unpreparedness of village capacity.
The Role of Alternative Splicing of Immune Response Genes in Cancer Aggression
Authors: Al-Rahim Aya , Mohammed Mais , Oohayyed Noor , Suleiman Ahmed , Shaban Semaa
Published: February 2023

Genetic information is transformed from DNA to RNA and eventually to
proteins. The protein phenotype is largely dependent on the mRNA
produced during transcription. Isoform switching is a series of events
that occurs after DNA is successfully transcribed into pre-mRNA, which
can generate different transcripts from the same gene, leading to both
structurally and functionally different and usually pathogenic proteins.
Although alternative splicing regulates normal cell stability, it also
plays a crucial role in tumor cells under pathological conditions,
affecting cancer progression, metastasis, and rapid proliferation by
aberrant splicing. Alternative splicing events are found to be linked to
at least 15%of cancers and other fatal diseases. This review provides
insights into various alternative splicing events that occur with
respect to the immune system, immune escape, and immune therapy and how
these events can eventually lead to the development of fatal diseases
such as cancer. This review may help to identify key biomarkers for the
potential prognostic, diagnostic, and therapeutic activities of a
disease.
A National Physician Survey of Deintensifying Diabetes Medications for Older Adults With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Pilla Scott J. , Jalalzai Rabia , Tang Olive , Schoenborn Nancy L. , Boyd Cynthia M. , Golden Sherita H. , Mathioudakis Nestoras N. , Maruthur Nisa M.
Published: February 2023

OBJECTIVE

To determine physicians’ approach to deintensifying (reducing/stopping) or switching hypoglycemia-causing medications for older adults with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In this national survey, U.S. physicians in general medicine, geriatrics, or endocrinology reported changes they would make to hypoglycemia-causing medications for older adults in three scenarios: good health, HbA1c of 6.3%; complex health, HbA1c of 7.3%; and poor health, HbA1c of 7.7%.

RESULTS

There were 445 eligible respondents (response rate 37.5%). In patient scenarios, 48%, 4%, and 20% of physicians deintensified hypoglycemia-causing medications for patients with good, complex, and poor health, respectively. Overall, 17% of physicians switched medications without significant differences by patient health. One-half of physicians selected HbA1c targets below guideline recommendations for older adults with complex or poor health.

CONCLUSIONS

Most U.S. physicians would not deintensify or switch hypoglycemia-causing medications within guideline-recommended HbA1c targets. Physician preference for lower HbA1c targets than guidelines needs to be addressed to optimize deintensification decisions.
Noninvasive Hypoglycemia Detection in People With Diabetes Using Smartwatch Data
Authors: Lehmann Vera , Föll Simon , Maritsch Martin , van Weenen Eva , Kraus Mathias , Lagger Sophie , Odermatt Katja , Albrecht Caroline , Fleisch Elgar , Zueger Thomas , Wortmann Felix , Stettler Christoph
Published: February 2023

OBJECTIVE

To develop a noninvasive hypoglycemia detection approach using smartwatch data.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We prospectively collected data from two wrist-worn wearables (Garmin vivoactive 4S, Empatica E4) and continuous glucose monitoring values in adults with diabetes on insulin treatment. Using these data, we developed a machine learning (ML) approach to detect hypoglycemia (<3.9 mmol/L) noninvasively in unseen individuals and solely based on wearable data.

RESULTS

Twenty-two individuals were included in the final analysis (age 54.5 ± 15.2 years, HbA1c 6.9 ± 0.6%, 16 males). Hypoglycemia was detected with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.76 ± 0.07 solely based on wearable data. Feature analysis revealed that the ML model associated increased heart rate, decreased heart rate variability, and increased tonic electrodermal activity with hypoglycemia.

CONCLUSIONS

Our approach may allow for noninvasive hypoglycemia detection using wearables in people with diabetes and thus complement existing methods for hypoglycemia detection and warning.
Learning Leadership in the Implementation of Independent Learning in Effective Schools
Authors: Mas Sitti Roskina , Zulystiawati Zulystiawati
Published: February 2023

The role of leadership has not been maximized by the majority of school principals, especially in Indonesia. This study aims to analyze the principal's learning leadership role in the implementation of independent learning. This study used a qualitative approach with a case study design at one madrasah school. Interviews, observations, and documentation studies were used to collect the data. All data obtained were analyzed with theme analysis approach, including data reduction, presentation, and verification procedures. Test the validity of the data using the credibility of the data and confirmability of the data. The results showed that the principal has focused on learning leadership well and effectively. Efforts that the principal has made as the highest leader in the school and as a learning leader are actively and continuously accompanying, guiding, facilitating, and motivating teachers to organize quality learning and innovative learning through good and structured academic guidance, deepening the interests of the academic community planned and programmed, as well as intensive religious/pesantren development as a characteristic of Islamic boarding schools to produce superior graduates, have character, and are competitive following the school's vision and mission. Furthermore, this study also shows that selecting appropriate and effective leadership approaches and strategies in each madrasa program will result in maximum student academic achievement. Principals' current and updated approach to learning leadership can create effective schools by implementing independent learning programs.
Customer Satisfaction and Intention to Use Mobile Financial Services: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Uddin Md. Kamal , Nasrin Shelina
Published: February 2023

The study aims to provide a comprehensive literature review on customer satisfaction and intention to use mobile financial services, to find out the limitations of existing studies, and to guide a direction for future research. This research is narrative and qualitative in nature. There are 58 relevant and related articles selected for the systematic review which were mostly collected from the Scopus database and a few on snowball systems from other authentic databases. Weight analysis performs to identify the best predictors of the existing literatures and descriptive data are presented in tabular and graphical form. The study revealed that D&M IS Success model, TAM, and UTATUT theories have mostly been employed in existing literatures and SEM as frequently applied statistical techniques. Weight analysis disclosed that perceived usefulness, confirmation of expectation, trust, service quality, system quality, information quality, and perceived cost are the best predictors of customer satisfaction and perceived usefulness, satisfaction, self-efficacy, perceived benefit, hedonic motivation, perceived ease of use, and perceived risks are the best predictors of Intention to use MFS. These findings have implications for academicians to take into account such variables for developing new research frameworks and for practitioners in setting business strategies.
The University in the United Kingdom in the 19th Century
Authors: Dimitriou Matthaios
Published: February 2023

The university scene in Britain in 19th century. The founding of the University College of London in 1828 and King’s College in 1831. In 1836, the University of London was founded, which conducted examinations and awarded diplomas to graduates of the University College of London and King’s College. By the end of the century a recognized teaching university had been established with faculties, study committees and academic representation. The British university scene until 1850 was dominated by Oxford and Cambridge. Major reforms were made in these two institutions after 1850.
Teaching and learning with innovative technologies and practices at primary school level.
Authors: Washbrooke Sarah
Published: February 2023

The introduction of computer science to primary schooling age is relatively new, as traditionally it was primarily set aside for secondary and tertiary level learning (Heintz et al., 2016). Experts agree that even young children can understand fundamental concepts of computational thinking (CT), and that it is important to develop skills related to CT from a young age (Boccini et. al, 2016, p.48).

 

Increasingly computer science is becoming a compulsory area of curriculum for many countries across the world, as reported by Bocconi et al. and there has been a recent increase in the integration of CT and computer science in mandatory education, as evidenced by the recent changes in educational curricula (p9., 2016). In New Zealand, the Technology curriculum was recently refreshed with the main revisions being the addition of CT and designing and developing digital outcomes as technological areas (Ministry of Education, 2017a). The intention of digital technologies curriculum content is to “significantly contribute to students developing the knowledge and skill they need as digital citizens and as users of digital technologies across the curriculum” (Ministry of Education, 2017b, p.3).

 

There is also an expectation that all teachers are responsible for building capacity in digital fluency and literacy. It is the teacher's responsibility to effectively use these tools, and to in turn educate students on how to take advantage of these tools for their learning (Wright, 2010, p.46). The main rationale for introducing CT in many countries is to promote the development of 21st century skills necessary for full engagement in the digital realm (Bocconi et al.,  2016, p.8).

 

ByteEd, a New Zealand based educational resource company, have recently developed a new approach to the teaching of computer science at a primary school level that incorporates 21st century skill development. The Play Code Learn series of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) kits utilise an unplugged-to-digital methodology and explore future-focused technologies of Augmented Reality (AR) and programming.

 

Based on the research of Bell and Vahrenhold (2018), who state unplugged activities for students engage them with lasting ideas in computer science. Integrating physical digital tasks along with unplugged tasks proves to be more beneficial for learning. The kits enable students to learn and understand digital concepts before transitioning to putting skills and knowledge into action in a digital environment.

 

This presentation delves into the impact of the first Play Code Learn kit, Dinosaur Steps, on teaching and learning in two New Zealand classrooms. The use of an unplugged approach has proven to be advantageous to learners and highlights a significant shift in knowledge retention and the understanding of concepts, skills and literacy after using the Dinosaur Steps kit and related teaching resources during Term 4 2022.