bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Look, It’s a Dengue Mosquito”: A Qualitative Study on Living Near Open-Air Dumpsites and Vector-Borne Diseases
Authors: Zolnikov Tara Rava , Clark Tanya , Furio Frances , Yasobant Sandul , Martins Ana Carolina Silva , Cruvinel Vanessa Resende Nogueira , Obara Marcos Takashi
Published: August 2023

Currently, almost half of the human population is at risk of acquiring dengue. Other emerging pathogens affecting human populations transmitted by Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti are chikungunya and Zika viruses. People who live in poor areas are more susceptible to be infected by these diseases. The lack of selective garbage collection and inadequate water storage are important factors in the dynamics of vector-borne transmission. This study took place in Estrutural City, the poorest city in Brasilia, Brazil, which hosted the largest open dump in America Latina and second largest in the world for almost 60 years; many of the inhabitants are waste pickers, who live and survive by gathering and selling recyclable waste. A qualitative study used semi-structured interviews with 100 participants to understand the experiences regarding community knowledge on mosquitos, contributing and prevention measures, and water access. Previous research on waste pickers has focused on vector-borne diseases, their exposure, and mitigation strategies. This research uncovered novel experiences that confirmed the plethora of knowledge of this population regarding exposure to vectors, specifically dengue. Participants mentioned contributing factors to the disease, while identifying mosquitos that carry dengue, and how often and how specifically it was to have dengue. They also mention preventative techniques that they currently take and strategies to improve upon these. These findings and actions will provide new control alternatives for arboviruses in risk areas and contribute to continued public health policies and basic services to be provided to the vulnerable communities.
The Impact Of Asphalt Material And Soil Salinity On Crop Growth
Of Sunflower
Authors: Ahmad Alathami Zaidoon
Published: August 2023

The sunflower represents a significant economic annual plant (oilproducing and edible). Even though the sunflower is categorized as one of the
most salt-tolerant plant types and is treated as a significant plant in saline soil reclamation, the rate of its photosynthetic and growth are adversely influenced by
high levels of salt in the soil, significantly when the groundwater level rises on
the soil surface, which in turn causes the raising of soil salinity. Therefore, there
is a critical need to control salt accumulation to increase sunflower crop yields.
An evaluation of the impact of asphalt material, soil salinity, groundwater table
depth, and soluble ions on the growth of sunflower crops is presented in this paper. Several treatments were used in this study: asphalt material, bitumen material, and controlling treatment. The experiments were conducted, calibrated, and
validated during the season of spring 2019. The results show a considerable reduction in soil salinity and groundwater table depth regarding the asphalt material
control aspect, thus increasing the growth properties of the sunflower crops.
Keywords: Growth of Sunflower, Asphalt and Bitumen Materials, Soil Salinity,
Soluble Ions, Groundwater Table Depth.
Phylogenetic tree of Proteus spp. Based on partial rpoB gene sequence analysis
Authors: Ali Mutlag Hussein , N. Khelkal Intesar
Published: August 2023

Due to the importance of the proposed rpoB gene as an alternative biomarker for microbial community studies, this study has focused on phylogenetic relationships among local Proteus clinical isolates. Fifty bacterial isolates were collected and identified phenotypically according to the culture, microscopic examination and biochemical tests. VITEK 2 compact system was used to confirm identification. Genotypic identification was performed after DNA extraction for 10 selected isolates and amplification with rpoB gene-specific primer and gel electrophoresis. The products were detected with a ( 1090 bp ) molecular size band, which was sent for Sanger sequencing using an ABI3730XL automated DNA sequencer, and data were analyzed and compared with standard sequences in GenBank.The isolates have been registered in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) with accession numbers and named (HIMUS1, HIMUS2, HIMUS3, HIMUS4, HIUS5, HIMUS6, HIMUS7, HIMUS8, HIMUS9 and HIMUS10 ). The phylogenetic tree was constructed using partial (895 bp) rpoB gene sequences for those ten strains. Evolutionary distances were calculated using the method of Maximum Composite Likelihood with 1000 bootstrap replicates using GENEIOUS software. The sequences presented a similarity percentage ranging between (98.76% and 100%) when compared with the sequences of standard strains in NCBI. Keywords: rpoB gene, Proteus spp. Sequencing, Phylogenetic analysis
Influence of variety and hornwort extract on growth and yield of tomato plant
Authors: Hussein Alewi Zainab , Gaber Zwayen Taghreed Fakhir , Abd Noor Abbood Hameedaa , A. Aboohanah Mansoor
Published: August 2023

An experimental trial was conducted at Al-Haidariya district, Najaf governorate, Iraq, for the spring season of 2019-2020. The experiment included two factors. The first factor included three cultivars of the tomato plant Solanum lycopersicum (Jawahiri, Al-Ibrahimi and Al-Asili). The second factor included spraying three concentrations of Ceratophyllum demersum (hornwort) extract, which are (0,5,10) ml -l , on vegetative growth. Randomized complete block design (R. C. B. D.) was used as a factorial experiment in a split-plot design with three replicates for each treatment. Duncan's multiple range test was adopted to compare the mean with a probability of 0.05% level of significance. The results appear of the variety on the vegetative growth indicators, as the Al-Asili variety outperformed in increasing the plant height, the number of plant leaves, the number of main branches, leaf area, dry weight, chlorophyll percentage, and the amount of yield, which amounted to 54.43cm, 97.63 leaves. plant-1 and 6.66 branches. plant-1 , and it reached 73.86 cm2 . and 125 % for dry weight percentage, while the total chlorophyll content was 1.23 mg.gm-1 and 10.1Km, compared to the Al-Jawhari cultivar, which had the least effect on plant height on reaching 37.43cm, 68.76 leaves. plant-1, and the number of papers was 62.06 cm2 . Leaf -1 , while the dry weight decreased and the chlorophyll the variety Al-Ibrahimi 83.33 g and 1.04 mg.gm-1 . Spraying at a concentration of 10 ml.l-1 increased the vegetative growth characteristics significantly, as the plant height reached 54.46 cm and the number of leaves was 100.76. Plant - 1 , and the number of branches is 6.3 branches. Plant-1 leaf area amounted to 73.53 cm2 , the dry weight of the shoot was 133.33%, and the percentage of total chlorophyll was 1.22 mg.gm-1 Keywords: Ceratophyllum demersum, hornwort, Solanum lycopersicum, vegetative parameters
Twitter Sentiment About the US Federal Tobacco 21 Law: Mixed Methods Analysis
Authors: Dobbs Page D , Boykin Allison Ames , Ezike Nnamdi , Myers Aaron J , Colditz Jason B , Primack Brian A
Published: August 2023

Background

On December 20, 2019, the US “Tobacco 21” law raised the minimum legal sales age of tobacco products to 21 years. Initial research suggests that misinformation about Tobacco 21 circulated via news sources on Twitter and that sentiment about the law was associated with particular types of tobacco products and included discussions about other age-related behaviors. However, underlying themes about this sentiment as well as temporal trends leading up to enactment of the law have not been explored.

Objective

This study sought to examine (1) sentiment (pro-, anti-, and neutral policy) about Tobacco 21 on Twitter and (2) volume patterns (number of tweets) of Twitter discussions leading up to the enactment of the federal law.

Methods

We collected tweets related to Tobacco 21 posted between September 4, 2019, and December 31, 2019. A 2% subsample of tweets (4628/231,447) was annotated by 2 experienced, trained coders for policy-related information and sentiment. To do this, a codebook was developed using an inductive procedure that outlined the operational definitions and examples for the human coders to annotate sentiment (pro-, anti-, and neutral policy). Following the annotation of the data, the researchers used a thematic analysis to determine emergent themes per sentiment category. The data were then annotated again to capture frequencies of emergent themes. Concurrently, we examined trends in the volume of Tobacco 21–related tweets (weekly rhythms and total number of tweets over the time data were collected) and analyzed the qualitative discussions occurring at those peak times.

Results

The most prevalent category of tweets related to Tobacco 21 was neutral policy (514/1113, 46.2%), followed by antipolicy (432/1113, 38.8%); 167 of 1113 (15%) were propolicy or supportive of the law. Key themes identified among neutral tweets were news reports and discussion of political figures, parties, or government involvement in general. Most discussions were generated from news sources and surfaced in the final days before enactment. Tweets opposing Tobacco 21 mentioned that the law was unfair to young audiences who were addicted to nicotine and were skeptical of the law’s efficacy and importance. Methods used to evade the law were found to be represented in both neutral and antipolicy tweets. Propolicy tweets focused on the protection of youth and described the law as a sensible regulatory approach rather than a complete ban of all products or flavored products. Four spikes in daily volume were noted, 2 of which corresponded with political speeches and 2 with the preparation and passage of the legislation.

Conclusions

Understanding themes of public sentiment—as well as when Twitter activity is most active—will help public health professionals to optimize health promotion activities to increase community readiness and respond to enforcement needs including education for retailers and the general public.
Identifying the Characteristics of Responders and Nonresponders in a Behavioral Intervention to Increase Physical Activity Among Patients With Moderate to Severe Asthma: Protocol for a Prospective Pragmatic Study (Preprint)
Authors: de Lima Fabiano Francisco , Lunardi Adriana Claudia , Pinheiro David Halen Araújo , Carvalho-Pinto Regina Maria , Stelmach Rafael , Giavina‑Bianchi Pedro , Agondi Rosana Câmara , Carvalho Celso RF
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Previous research has suggested that most adults improve their asthma control after a short-term behavioral intervention program to increase physical activity in daily life (PADL). However, the characteristics of individuals who respond and do not respond to this intervention and the medium-term response remain unknown.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to (1) identify the characteristics of adult responders and nonresponders with asthma to a behavioral intervention to increase physical activity and (2) evaluate the functional and clinical benefits in the medium term.

METHODS

This prospective pragmatic study will include adults with moderate to severe asthma who enroll in a behavioral intervention. All individuals will receive an educational program and an 8-week intervention to increase PADL (1 time/wk; up to 90 min/session). The educational program will be conducted in a class setting through group discussions and video presentations. Behavioral interventions will be based on the transtheoretical model using counseling, incentives, and individual feedback aiming to increase participation in physical activity. Motivational interviewing and guidelines for overcoming barriers will be used to stimulate individuals to reach their goals. Pre- and postintervention assessments will include the following: PADL (triaxial accelerometry), body composition (octopolar bioimpedance), barriers to PADL (questionnaire), clinical asthma control (Asthma Control Questionnaire), quality of life (Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire), anxiety and depression levels (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale), and exacerbations. “Responders” to the intervention will be defined as those who demonstrate an increase in the number of daily steps (≥2500).

RESULTS

In December 2021, the clinical trial registration was approved. Recruitment and data collection for the trial is ongoing, and the results of this study are likely to be published in late 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

The intervention will likely promote different effects according to the clinical characteristics of the individuals, including asthma control, age, anxiety and depression levels, obesity, and several comorbidities. Identifying individuals who respond or do not respond to behavioral interventions to increase PADL will help clinicians prescribe specific interventions to adults with asthma.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05159076; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05159076

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/49032
Telehealth interventions in Mental Health: a Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Torres-Silva Ever Augusto , Pereira-Montiel Eider , Montoya-Arenas David Andres , Uribe-Urzola Alicia , Alzate-Montoya Mauricio Alexander , Florez-Arango Jose Fernando
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

The increase in internet access, the use of mobile devices and computers has caused a trend towards the implementation of technology to facilitate care in different areas, including mental health. Objective:This study is a systematic review following PRISMA recommendations with the aim of learning about telehealth interventions for mental health in the population older than 15 years of age

OBJECTIVE

This study is a systematic review following PRISMA recommendations with the aim of learning about telehealth interventions for mental health in the population older than 15 years of age

METHODS

We used multiple sources for the search as PubMed, Science Direct, LILACS, and IEEE Xplore search was scoped between January 1, 2020, and May 13, 2022. Articles were annotated in Ryyan

RESULTS

We identified 1251 articles in the observation period, 105 articles met the inclusion criteria. Articles were classified by the platform they use for the intervention(web/mobile), the telehealth functionalities, the WHO classifications of digital interventions, the target population, and the pathologies operated. Tele-conference and self-reported questionnaires were the main intervention strategies; the most common platform is the web; with systems developed primarily for patients and providers; Depression and anxiety disorders were the main diagnosis involved; and diverse target populations.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings will inform the design of comprehensive telehealth mental health interventions based on current technological trends and the needs of the target population
What is the added value of using video in out-of-hours primary care? A survey among general practitioners (Preprint)
Authors: Nebsbjerg Mette Amalie , Bomholt Katrine Bjørnshave , Vestergaard Claus Høstrup , Christensen Morten Bondo , Huibers Linda
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Many countries have introduced video consultations in primary care both inside and outside office hours. Despite some relational and technical limitations, general practitioners (GP) have reported benefits of video use in the daytime as it provides faster and more flexible access to healthcare. Studies have indicated that video may be specifically valuable in out-of-hours primary care (OOH-PC), but additional knowledge about the added value of video use is needed.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate triage GPs’ perspectives on video use in GP-led telephone triage in OOH-PC by exploring their reasons for choosing video use and its effect on triage outcome, decision-making process, communication, and invested time.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire study among GPs performing telephone triage in the OOH-PC service in the Central Denmark Region from 5 September 2022 until 21 December 2022. The questionnaire was integrated into the electronic patient registration system as a pop-up window appearing after every third video contact. This setup automatically linked background data on contact, patient, and GP to the questionnaire data.

RESULTS

The most frequent reasons for video use were to assess the severity, to increase the probability of self-care, and to achieve greater certainty in decision-making. In 61.9% of contacts, the triage GPs anticipated that the contact would have resulted in a different triage outcome if video had not been used. Use of video resulted in a downgrading of severity level in 88.3% of cases. Triage GPs evaluated the use of video as positive in terms of their decision-making process, communication, and invested time.

CONCLUSIONS

According to participating triage GPs video appeared to affect triage outcome, mostly by downgrading severity. The participating triage GPs valued the use of video in OOH-PC, specifically in the communication and in the decision-making process.
Systems Innovations to Increase Home Dialysis Utilization
Authors: Cheng Xin Bo Justin , Chan Christopher T.
Published: August 2023

Globally, there is an interest to increase home dialysis utilization. The most recent United States Renal Data System (USRDS) data report that 13.3% of incident dialysis patients in the United States are started on home dialysis, while most patients continue to initiate KRT with in-center hemodialysis. To effect meaningful change, a multifaceted innovative approach will be needed to substantially increase the use of home dialysis. Patient and provider education is the first step to enhance home dialysis knowledge awareness. Ideally, one should maximize the number of patients with CKD stage 5 transitioning to home therapies. If this is not possible, infrastructures including transitional dialysis units and community dialysis houses may help patients increase self-care efficacy and eventually transition care to home. From a policy perspective, adopting a home dialysis preference mandate and providing financial support to recuperate increased costs for patients and providers have led to higher uptake in home dialysis. Finally, respite care and planned home-to-home transitions can reduce the incidence of transitioning to in-center hemodialysis. We speculate that an ecosystem of complementary system innovations is needed to cause a sufficient change in patient and provider behavior, which will ultimately modify overall home dialysis utilization.
ANALISIS PENDAPATAN USAHATANI RUMPUT LAUT DI DESA BAHONSUAI KECAMATAN BUMI RAYA KABUPATEN MOROWALI
Authors: Anjas Anjas , Pratama Moh Fardhal
Published: August 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui berapa besar pendapatan petani rumput laut.Data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah data kuantitatif dan kualitatif.Teknik pengumpulan data yang digunakan dengan metode observasi, kuisioner dan wawancara. Penentuan sampel dilakukan dengan metode sensus, dengan mengambil semua petani rumput laut  yang masih aktif. Dalam hal ini jumlah responden yang masih aktif berjumlah 30 orang.Penelitian ini menggunakan data primer dan sekunder. Analisis data yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah analisis pendapatan.Hasil analisis pendapatan yang diperoleh menunjukkan bahwa rata-rata pendapatan yang diperoleh petani rumput laut satu kali musim tanam sebesar Rp. 11.192.867/1,1ha atau dikonversikan sebesar Rp.10.175.334/ha.Oleh karena itu, keberlanjutan usaha perlu dikembangkan dalam hal meningkatkan kualitas produksi sehingga harga jual produk lebih tinggi yang pada akhirnya dapat meningkatkan pendapatan masyarakatnya.
Camouflage efficiency in a colour-polymorphic predator is dependent on environmental variation and snow presence in the wild
Authors: Perrault Charlotte , Morosinotto Chiara , Brommer Jon , Karell Patrik
Published: August 2023

Colour polymorphism can be maintained by colour morph-specific benefits
across environmental conditions. Currently, the amount and duration of
snow cover during winter decreases especially in northern latitudes,
which can alter the potential for camouflage of animals with light and
dark morphs. Tawny owls, Strix aluco, are colour polymorphic avian
predators with dark (brown) and light (grey) colour morphs, where the
grey morph is presumed to enjoy camouflage benefits under snowy
conditions. We studied the two tawny owls’ morphs’ camouflage potential
using passerines’ probability to detect and mob in the wild during
spring, autumn, and winter with and without snow. We find that grey
tawny owls are both less likely to be detected and have a lower
probability of being mobbed compared to brown tawny owls only during
snowy winters. The two colour morphs therefore experience differential
benefits across snow conditions, which may help to maintain colour
morphs in the population, although further warming of winter climate
will reduce the potential for camouflage for grey tawny owls in northern
latitudes.
Management and Clinical Outcomes of Carotid Body Tumors: Insights from a Single-Center Study
Authors: Escobar Denitze Lara , Pudszuhn Annett , Hofmann Veit
Published: August 2023

Abstract Objective: Evaluate surgical outcomes of Carotid body tumors
(CBT), especially postoperative complications (PC) and the influence of
cranial nerve injuries (CNI) on patients’ quality of life (QoL). Design:
A prospective follow-up study (2004-2020) utilizing a database from
Charité University Hospital and follow-up questionnaires EORTC QLQ-C30
and QLQ-H&N43. Setting: A single-institution study. Participants:
Patients with histopathologically confirmed CBT and an ICD code 44.6.
Main Outcome Measures: Tumor characteristics, complications, and
postoperative QoL (EORTC QLQ-C30, QLQ-H&N43) Results: From 40
identified CBT patients, 55% were females with an average age of 51.1.
47.5% tumors were right-sided; 70% presented with painless neck
swelling. 12.5% had a Succinate dehydrogenase mutation. Average tumor
volume was 133 cm³. CNIs affected 45%. Preoperative embolization (PE)
was done in 47.5%, not reducing PC (p=0.98). No association was found
between tumor size and PC: gender (p=0.7), age (p=0.847), co-morbidities
(p=0.13). Average stay was 8.07 days. Patients without complications had
better QoL (M=92.59 vs. M=69.44, p=.019); those without CNIs also had
better QoL (p=.068). Males had superior QoL scores (p=.05). PC affected
functioning, especially social functioning (p = .05) and CNX injury (p=
.041). Conclusion: CBT surgery significantly affects nerve function and
QoL. The results present the need for effective postoperative care,
monitoring and management of complications to boost patient outcomes.
Gender differences in QoL after CBT surgery merit further investigation
into possible physiological and environmental factors.
A class of adaptive predefined-time extended state observers for high-order strict-feedback systems
Authors: Ju Xiaozhe , Lv Jixing , wang changhong , Kao Yonggui , Jiang Yushi
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we consider the predefined-time extended state observer
(PTESO) design for a class of high-order strict-feedback systems subject
to Hölder continuous nonlinearities and multiple disturbances. By
developing an adaptive mechanism and using time-varying functions, a
class of adaptive PTESOs is designed, in which the convergence time can
be tightly and explicitly preset by only one parameter, irrelevant to
the initial conditions. The adaptive mechanism is used to improve the
transient performance under wide-range lumped disturbance. Moreover,
thanks to the design of the time-varying gains, the PTESO could realize
fast observation with trivial peaking observation errors. Finally,
simulation results are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the
proposed observer.
Consortium of “consistent amino acid substitutions” on Influenza A (H1N1) viral proteome emerged at specific stages of viral infection: A big data analysis
Authors: Lubna Syeda , Bandyopadhyay Debashree
Published: August 2023

Influenza-A-virus (IAV) is one of the common threats to humankind since
1918. The viral proteome is frequently substituted leading to new
strains and recurrent pandemics. Despite knowing the effects of single
amino acid substitutions on individual viral proteins, effects of
collective substitutions on viral infection remain elusive. Here, we
addressed the question whether the “consistent amino substitutions”
occur in consortium on functional domains and protein-protein
interaction (PPI) sites, impacting overall viral infection and host
immune responses. By definition, “consistent substitutions” occur on
“all” the IAV strains isolated in a particular year. Big protein data
(563370 sequences and 9824 PPI) and bioinformatics techniques were
exploited to address this question. Total one-hundred-and-five
“consistent substitutions” were mapped on IAV proteome. Fifty of those
emerged on viral functional domains and PPIs, engaged in the specific
stages of IAV infection, namely, i) cell surface entry and exit, ii)
nuclear import, vRNP assembly and nuclear export and iii) antagonizing
immune responses. The study for the first time showed that consortium of
“consistent substitutions” emerged on protein functional domains and
PPIs, impacting specific stages of viral infection, rather than a single
protein, and presumably navigate viral escape from human immune
response.
Medium- and long-chain triacylglycerol in human breast milk and association with maternal dietary patterns
Authors: Gong Jingru , Wang Lei , Wang Xingguo , Wei Wei
Published: August 2023

This study aims to investigate the influences of maternal dietary
patterns on the triacylglycerol (TAG) composition, particular medium-
and long-chain triacylglycerol (MLCT) in human breast milk. A total of
180 Chinese human breast milk samples were collected and divided into
three dietary patterns groups accounting to semi-quantitative food
intake frequency questionnaire and a 24-hour dietary recall. Using high
performance liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole
time-of-flight mass spectrometry, 108 TAGs were identified and
quantified. In breast milk samples, MLCTs accounted for 25.76 % (median
of 24.63%; 95% CI: 24.60, 26.92) of the total TAGs. In human breast
milk, the main type of MLCT is TAGs esterified with one medium-chain
fatty acid and two long-chain fatty acids (MLL type) which accounted for
~81% of total MLCTs. Among the molecular species of
MLCT, O-P-La, O-L-La, and O-L-M are the three most abundant
configurations in MLCT (2.28%, 2.17%, and 2.01% of total TAGs,
respectively). MLCT in breast milk was positively correlated with the
energy supply ratio of carbohydrates (P = 0.205), which was
significantly higher than that of the other two groups (P = −0.150 and
−0.232).
Arrhythmogenic substrate in deep intra-trabecular structures of RVOT endocardium in canine model of Brugada syndrome
Authors: Burashnikov Alexander , Antzelevitch Charles
Published: August 2023

Introduction: A prominent action potential (AP) notch in the
epicardium (Epi) of the RVOT is known to predispose to the development
of closely-coupled phase 2 reentrant extrasystoles, capable of
precipitating ventricular tachycardia and fibrillation (VT/VF) in the
setting of BrS. Ablation of this Epi substrate exerts an ameliorative
effect. In some BrS patients, Endo ablation of the RVOT is effective as
well. The prime objective of this study was to examine the
electrophysiological basis for premature beats originating from the
endocardium (Endo) of the right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) in
experimental models of Brugada syndrome (BrS). Methods: Canine
coronary-perfused cardiac preparations incorporating the RVOT (n=15)
were studied using standard microelectrode techniques. Terfenadine, a
sodium and calcium channel blocker, was used to pharmacologically mimic
the effects of the genetic defects associated with BrS. Results:
Under baseline conditions, a prominent AP notch was recorded in Epi and
in the deep intra-trabecular structures of RVOT Endo, but not in the
smooth Endo surface of the RVOT. Terfenadine markedly accentuated the AP
notch in the deep intra-trabecular structures of RVOT Endo leading to
the development of closely-coupled phase 2 reentrant extrasystoles
capable of triggering polymorphic VT/V. Still, Epi RVOT region was more
likely to develop extrasystoles than Endo RVOT. VT/VF was recorded in
12/15 preparations. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the
deep intra-trabecular structures of RVOT Endo harbor the substrate for
the development of phase 2 reentrant extrasystoles capable of triggering
VT/VF. Our data may help to explain the effectiveness of Endo RVOT
ablation in some BrS patients.
Prognostic Factors for Long-term Aesthetic Outcome of Infantile Haemangioma Treated with Beta-blockers
Authors: Hermans Mireille M. , Pasmans Suzanne G.M.A. , De Graaf Marlies , Ragamin Aviël , Mendels Elodie J. , Breur Johannes M.P.J. , Langeveld Hester R. , Raphael Martine F. , De Laat Peter C.J. , De Wildt Saskia N. , Rietman André B. , Breugem Corstiaan C. , Schappin Renske
Published: August 2023

Parents of infants treated with beta-blockers for infantile haemangioma are often concerned about the long-term aesthetic outcome. This cross-sectional study assessed the influence on the long-term aesthetic outcome of characteristics of the infantile haemangioma, the beta-blocker treatment, and the infant. The study included 103 children aged 6–12 years, treated with beta-blockers (propranolol or atenolol) for infantile haemangioma during infancy (age at treatment initiation ≤1 year) for ≥6 months. Dermatologists and parents scored the Patient Observer Scar Assessment Scale, and the child scored a visual analogue scale. Dermatologists identified whether telangiectasia, fibrofatty tissue, and atrophic scar tissue were present. The long-term aesthetic outcome of infantile haemangioma was judged more negatively by dermatologists and parents in case of a superficial component, ulceration, older age at treatment initiation, higher cumulative dose, and/or shorter follow-up time. According to children, infantile haemangioma located on the head had better aesthetic outcome than infantile haemangioma located elsewhere. Close monitoring, particularly of infantile haemangioma with a superficial component, is essential for early initiation of treatment, and to prevent or treat ulceration. These outcome data can support parental counselling and guide treatment strategy.
PsoBarrier EU study: a Multicentre, Cross-sectional Survey Investigating the Quality of Psoriasis Care in Four European Countries
Authors: Langenbruch Anna , Mohr Nicole , Andrees Valerie , Kessens Ihno , Reich Adam , Czarnecka-Operacz Magdalena , Puig Luis , Dauden Esteban , Iversen Lars , Augustin Matthias
Published: August 2023

Enhanced treatment options for psoriasis and growing use of guidelines increased the potential to better quality of psoriasis care in Europe. The aim of the PsoBarrier EU study is to compare the quality and processes of psoriasis care in four European countries with different healthcare systems, based on validated quality indicators. This cross-sectional survey was conducted in dermatology centres in Denmark, Germany, Poland and Spain on 1,304 patients, using standardized patient and physician questionnaires. Measured by quality of psoriasis care indicators, patients in Poland had the most critical outcomes, such as the highest disease severity (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index; PASI) and lowest health-related quality of life (Dermatology Life Quality Index; DLQI). This indicates differences in psoriasis care, with Polish participants experiencing more severe psoriasis and its consequences. Differences in the healthcare systems, which create barriers to accessing treatments, could explain variations in quality of care.
Habilidades sociais e qualidade de vida de professores do ensino fundamental
Authors: Esteves Marcela Mangili , Del Prette Zilda Aparecida Pereira
Published: August 2023

As habilidades sociais são reconhecidas como fatores de proteção para saúde e qualidade de vida, o que teoricamente se aplica a professores, cujas condições de trabalho são reconhecidamente precárias. Este estudo analisou indicadores de qualidade de vida (QV) e de habilidades sociais (HS) de professores, levando em conta variáveis sociodemográficas que poderiam moderar essa relação. Participaram 85 professoras do 1º ao 5º ano do Ensino Fundamental, de escolas públicas do interior paulista, que completaram o Inventário de Habilidades Sociais (IHS-Del-Prette-2016), o Questionário de Qualidade de Vida (WHOQOL-abreviado) e dois questionários sociodemográficos. Verificou-se uma correlação positiva entre HS e QV, com as variáveis idade, formação, experiência docente e classe socioeconômica mostraram-se moderadoras dessa relação. São discutidas limitações, bem como implicações dos resultados para pesquisas futuras.
Online Course Viewings and Their Effects on Performances in Covid-19 Distance Education Period
Authors: Demir Erdem , Ediz Çağla , Turan Aykut Hamit
Published: August 2023

Despite numerous studies examining student preferences in terms of live and recorded lecture viewings, the effects of lesson viewings on online platforms have been limitedly studied. In this study, the rates of attending live lectures and viewing lecture recordings in the Covid-19 era were examined, and attendance and viewings effects on final scores in these courses were evaluated. For this purpose, data from online education systems of live and record viewings for Turkish Literature, mathematics, and biostatistics classes in the spring semester of 2021-2022, belonging to 13 Turkish universities and 2082 students, were utilized. We found that (1) Thirteen percent of the students did not view any live or recorded courses, and approximately one-third did not enter the final exam; (2) The students in state universities have significantly higher record viewing rates than those in private universities with medium effect size, (3) Females present significantly higher live viewings and record viewing rates than males with small effect sizes; (4) Biostatistics has moderate-high correlations between viewing rates and final scores. On the other hand, there are no or weak relationships between the viewing rates and final scores for Turkish literature and mathematics, in which study materials can be widely accessed from many sources different from biostatistics.
Competences of Physical Education Teachers in Education Supported by Digital Technology
Authors: Maksimović Jelena , Lazić Natalija N.
Published: August 2023

The application of digital technology in teaching physical education provides a basis for its improvement in the direction of promoting physical activity and student development. As one of the most important subjects of the teaching process, teachers have a fundamental role in achieving the goals and tasks of physical education. Physical education teachers are required to develop competences based on which they would implement digital technology in physical education classes in compliance with the imperatives of modern digital education. Therefore, this research is focused on the competences of physical education teachers in education supported by digital technology. The aim of this research is to determine the competences of physical education teachers necessary to fulfil their role in education supported by digital technology. The method used in this theoretical research is the method of theoretical analysis. The technique of content analysis was used. The research instrument consists of the relevant literature on this topic. The theoretical analysis points to a need to expand and improve the digital competences of physical education teachers, which can be achieved by joint action of formal and informal education systems in developing programs that would provide a basis for the professional development and empowerment of physical education teachers to use digital technology with more certainty and purpose in teaching physical education.
National-scale nitrogen loading from the Finnish agricultural fields has decreased since the 1990s
Authors: Huttunen Inese , Huttunen Markus , Salo Tapio , Mattila Pasi , Maanavilja Liisa , Silfver Tarja
Published: August 2023

The national scale nutrient load modelling system VEMALA-ICECREAM was used to simulate agricultural total nitrogen(TN) loading and its trends for all Finnish watersheds for the period from 1990–2019. Across Finland, agricultural TN loading (ATNL) has decreased from 17.4 kg ha-1 a-1 to 14.4 kg ha-1 a-1 (moving 10-year averages) since the 1990s. The main driver of the decrease in simulated ATNL is a reduction in mineral fertilizer use, which has decreased the N surplus in the soils. The TN leached fraction, however, did not show a trend but did have high annual variability due to variations in runoff; this corresponds to an average of 14.4% of the TN applied. The ATNL was considerably higher in the Archipelago Sea catchment compared to other Finnish Baltic Sea sub-catchments, with the lowest ATNL found in the Vuoksi catchment in Eastern Finland. The highest decrease of ATNL was simulated for Vuoksi and Gulf of Finland catchments. In the Bothnian Sea, Bothnian Bay and Archipelago Sea catchments, the decreasing trend of ATNL was smaller but still significant, with the exception of the Quark catchment, where there was no significant change. The differences in decreasing trends between regions can be explained by the heterogeneity of catchment characteristics, hydrology and agricultural practices in different regions.
The in vitro digestates from Brussels sprouts processed with various hydrothermal treatments affect the intestinal epithelial cell differentiation, mitochondrial polarization and glutathione level
Authors: Doniec Joanna , Pierzchalska Małgorzata , Mickowska Barbara , Grabacka Maja
Published: August 2023

Brussels sprouts provide bioactive compounds with widely acknowledged health-promoting effects observed in various levels: single cells, organs and tissues, or the whole organism. However, the choice of the appropriate hydrothermal processing is critical to sustain the nutritional values and cytoprotective activities, as Brussels sprouts are rarely eaten raw. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of various culinary methods (boiling, steaming, and sous-vide in comparison to raw plant material) applied to Brussels sprouts on the chosen functions of liver and intestinal cell lines (HepG2 and Caco-2, respectively): the markers of enterocyte differentiation (alkaline phosphatase and sucrase-isomaltase activities and protein level), glutathione store management (total GSH concentration and Glu, Gly, Cys and Met amino acids analysis) and mitochondrial polarization (JC-1 staining analysis). The in vitro digestates from raw Brussels sprouts had a stronger positive effect on the enterocyte marker enzymes in the Caco-2 cultures as compared to the digestates from the hydrothermally processed vegetables (boiled, steamed, and sous-vide). The sous-vide method diminished the intracellular glutathione stores. Hydrothermal processing, particularly steaming and sous-vide had a negative impact on the mitochondrial abundance and polarization as compared to raw vegetables. Our results suggest that shorter processing is more beneficial to retain glutathione and mitochondrial polarization than longer hydrothermal treatment.
The Effect Of Addition Gelatin To The Quality Of White Sweet Potato Jam
Authors: Putri Yolanda , Holinesti Rahmi , Gusnita Wiwik , Mustika Sari
Published: August 2023

This study aims to analyze the effect of addition gelatin as much as 0.5%, 1% and 1.5% on the quality of color, aroma,soft texture, texture easily smeared and taste of white sweet potato jam. This type of research is a pure experiment with a completely randomized design method. The data used are primary data obtained directly from 3 expert panelists byfilling out the organoleptic test format on the quality of white sweet potato jam with the addition of gelatin. The dataobtained is then tabulated in tabular form and an Analysis of Variance (ANAVA) is performed, ifFcount > Ftable thenproceed with Duncan's test. The results showed that there was a significant effect of the addition of 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% gelatin on the quality of the soft texture and easily smeared texture, while the quality of color, aroma, and taste had noeffect. The results of data analysis obtained the highest achievement score overall, namely color 4.44 (1.5%), aroma 3.89(1.5%), soft texture 4.44 (1.5%), texture easily smeared 4.44 (1.5%), and taste 4.22 (1.5%). The best quality test results for white sweet potato jam with the addition of gelatin were in the X₃ treatment with the addition of 1.5% gelatin
HIGH-FREQUENCY TRANSACTION DATA: A COMPARISON BETWEEN TWO ASYMMETRIC MODELS
Authors: Kunkler Michael
Published: August 2023

This paper compares two asymmetric market microstructure models, namely, the three-state asymmetric autoregressive conditional duration (AACD) model and the activity-direction-size (ADS) model. It is shown that the two models measure different aspects of the same underlying asymmetric nature of market microstructure. It is also shown that by extending the AACD model to include two size variables and adjusting for partial durations, each model’s parameter estimates can be used to estimate the other model’s parameters exactly. Thus, the two asymmetric market microstructure models are equivalent.
A sentinel surveillance of adverse events and breakthrough infections following COVID-19 precautionary dose among south Indian healthcare workers
Authors: Mathew Merrin , Sebastian Juny , Basavaraja Chetak Kadabasal , Josh Devayani , Varughese Deleena , Soman Sidharth , Mahalekshmi Madhu Sreeja
Published: August 2023

Background: Adverse events following immunization (AEFI) is defined as any untoward medical occurrence which follows immunization and which does not necessarily have a causal relationship with the usage of the vaccine. Break-through infections are referred to as antigen or SARS-CoV-2 RNA positivity of respiratory specimens more than 14 days after receiving all recommended doses. Aim: The study was conducted to identify adverse events and break-through infections following the precautionary dose of the COVID-19 vaccine among healthcare workers. Methodology: The study was designed as a cohort event monitoring; all healthcare professionals who received COVID-19 precautionary dose from the study site were included in the study. The study population was actively followed for any adverse event following immunization (AEFI) through telephonic contact (within 30 days of post-vaccination). Reported adverse events were carefully scrutinized and evaluated by the AEFI investigation team of the study site. Results: Out of 1232 vaccine beneficiaries, a total of 359 (29.14%) individuals were reported with 385 AEFIs. Of which 138 (38.44%) individuals were laboratory-confirmed (RTPCR positive) breakthrough cases. Less severity and low morbidity were observed among all the breakthrough cases. According to the WHO’s new causality assessment algorithm, 183 (47.53%) events were vaccine product-related and 202 (52.46%) were co-incidental events. Conclusion: There was a prevailing outbreak of COVID-19 infection in the study site, which resulted in many breakthrough infections soon after immunization. Initially, all breakthrough infections were misleading as vaccine-related events, where this study helped to break the concerns among the study population.
A pediatric case of exudative erythema multiforme probably associated with asymptomatic COVID-19
Authors: Wada Yoshihiro , Minami Kayoko , Natsuaki Masaru , Kanazawa Nobuo
Published: August 2023

COVID-19 is a pandemic involving severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, which started in China at the end of 2019 and has spread globally. Among COVID-19 patients, 17.8% are under 20 years of age. Most children infected with SARS-CoV-2 are asymptomatic or only oligosymptomatic and can easily be overlooked. We followed an 11-year-old boy showing exudative erythema multiforme, which appeared during isolation at home following a positive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for COVID-19. Our case, although otherwise asymptomatic, showed typical clinical and histological manifestations of the erythema multiforme-like lesions associated with COVID-19. The presence of such an asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 carrier who developed erythema multiforme-like skin lesions provides the possibility that some undefined infectious organisms, such as SARS-CoV-2, could be the origin of exudative erythema multiforme cases without any apparent cause.
Gut Microbiota and its impact on the inflammation-dysplasia-cancer sequence
Authors: Lazarchuk Ivanna , Parmar Shivika , Wozniak Slawomir
Published: August 2023

The understanding and explanation of inflammation-dysplasia-cancer sequence is challenging. The gut microbiota is an important factor for the intestine wall. The changes in bacteria quality and/or quantity (dysbiosis) may begin the colon inflammation. This paper reviewed the gut microbiome risk factors which may lead to colon cancer.
New Pexiderizations of Drygas’ Functional Equation on Abelian Semigroups
Authors: Aissi Youssef , Zeglami Driss
Published: August 2023

Let (S, +) be an abelian semigroup, let (H, +) be an abelian group which is uniquely 2-divisible, and let ϕ be an endomorphism of S. We find the solutions f, h : S → H of each of the functional equations

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,

\matrix{ {f\left( {x + y} \right) + f\left( {x + \varphi \left( y \right)} \right) = h\left( x \right) + f\left( y \right) + f \circ \varphi \left( y \right),\,x,y \in S,} \hfill \cr {f\left( {x + y} \right) + f\left( {x + \varphi \left( y \right)} \right) = h\left( x \right) + 2f\left( y \right),\,x,y \in S,} \hfill \cr }

in terms of additive and bi-additive maps. Moreover, as applications, we determine the solutions of some related functional equations.
Men Think they Know More about Networks
Authors: Neal Zachary P.
Published: August 2023

The fields of social network analysis and network science have recently undertaken efforts to address issues of gender diversity and representation. However, despite these important efforts, subtle threats to representation are likely to persist. I use a 2023 global survey of 260 network researchers to show that men rate themselves as having more expertise with networks than women. This is troubling because, to the extent that women believe they lack the expertise to be considered for awards or collaboration opportunities, it can impede other efforts to diversify the field. I conclude by discussing some possible explanations for this finding and some possible strategies for addressing its consequences.
Evaluation of phenotypic variability of seedlings obtained from open pollination of three varieties of the genus Hylotelephium
Authors: Sotolářová Oldřiška , Sotolář Radek , Vachůn Miroslav , Pokluda Robert , Uher Jiří
Published: August 2023

This article reflects on the conventional open pollination breeding method of the genus Hylotelephium. Six-year-old seedlings were evaluated and compared with the mother plants for 3 years. A total of 1 063 seedlings were evaluated (54 in the H. ‘Red Cauli’, 90 descendants in the H. ‘Xenox’, 919 descendants in the H. ‘Purple Emperor’). This study deals with six evaluated characters of vegetative parts of plants (habit, height and width of plants, length and width of leaves and the colour of the upper side of the leaves). The most significant phenotypic variability was confirmed for habit, plant height, leaf colour in summer and leaf length in population H. ‘Xenox’ and for spring colouration of lower leaves in population H. ‘Red Cauli’. The highest degree of variability was found for plant height, where the monitored populations split into a total of seven different sizes. On the contrary, the lowest degree of variability was demonstrated for the length and width of leaves, where all populations showed shorter and narrower leaves compared to the mother plants, with minimal differences.