bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between leukocytosis and infection in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Ghaderkhani Sara , Farhadi Kousha , Rajabi Erta , Hasannezhad Malihe , Daraei Morteza , Aghaei Parisa Mohammad
Published: November 2023

Background
Diabetic Ketoacidosis, a fatal complication of diabetes, presents in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Psychological stress or any acute medical condition, such as infections and surgeries, can trigger and alleviate diabetic ketoacidosis. Like infections, diabetic ketoacidosis can result in leukocytosis, making it harder to distinguish between the two conditions, resulting in the overuse of antimicrobial agents to blindly treat infections, and increasing the rate of antimicrobial resistance, a global threat to humanity.
Methods
A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on the correlation between infection and leukocytosis in patients referring to Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran, Iran, from September 2018 to September 2022. Comorbidities, clinical findings at admission, acidosis severity, hospitalization duration, laboratory data, and radiologic findings were retrieved using the Hospital Information System and then compared and analyzed.
Results
Of the 129 evaluated patients, 84 showed leukocytosis, while 45 did not. The mean age of participants was 38.17 ± 21.30 years. The total population included 52 males and 77 females; 92 were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, and 37 had type 2 diabetes, with a mean duration of diabetes of 8.07 ± 6.99. We evaluated the correlation between leukocytosis due to infection in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis and their age, sex, diabetes type, and duration, PH levels, hospitalization duration, erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein levels, chest X-ray findings, blood and urine culture results, patients' prognosis, and presence of an infectious process in general. We found no correlation between leukocytosis and sex, diabetes type, PH levels, and blood cultures. However, there were significant correlations between leukocytosis and infection presence, urine cultures, radiologic findings, patients' age, diabetes and hospitalization duration, and ESR and CRP levels. We also found a white blood cell count threshold of 14.96 as a sign of infection in patients with DKA.
Conclusion
Our findings suggested that a total WBC count of, 14000/mm3 or higher can indicate the presence of infection in patients with DKA, which could indicate the start of antibiotic therapy in such patients.
Trial registration
Not applicable. This study is not a clinical trial.
Study on the relationship between disease awareness and survival time in patients with spinal malignant tumors
Authors: Li Xue , Luo Chunmei , Tang Tang , Tong Boshan
Published: November 2023

Purpose As a malignant tumor with high mortality, spinal malignant tumors often cause great trauma to patients and accompany low quality of life. Whether or not to inform patients of their condition has always been controversial in the medical community. This retrospective cohort study investigated the association between disease awareness and survival time in patients with spinal malignant tumors.Methods 129 patients with spinal malignant tumors were enrolled between January 2016 and December 2022, including 40 primary spinal tumors and 89 spinal metastases. The potential factors influencing spinal malignant tumor survival were registered, including disease awareness, age, gender, education level, pathological type, treatment, smoking history, drinking history, and survival time. All participants were followed up every 6 months until August 2023.Results In August 2023, 76 (58.9%) patients died, and 53 (41.0%) patients still survived. The 3-year survival rate of patients with primary spinal tumors was 70.4%, and that of patients with spinal metastases was 22.1%, with a median survival time (MST) of 12 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 9.69–14.31). Among the 129 participants, 16(12.4%) did not know their condition at all, 34(26.3%) only knew their diagnosis, 79(61.2%) knew not only their diagnosis but also the treatment and prognosis of the disease, and younger and more educated Patients with primary spinal tumors were more likely to have a complete understanding of the disease. Cox regression analysis showed that awareness of the disease (hazard ratio, 0.214;95% CI, 0.091–0.504; P < 0.001) and education level (hazard ratio,0.322;95% CI, 0.104–0.995; P < 0.05) were independent influencing factors for survival in patients with primary spinal tumors. However, the same results were not found in patients with spinal metastases.Conclusion A complete understanding of cancer knowledge may contribute to the better survival of patients with primary spinal tumors. Therefore, Medical staff could provide Patient Decision Aid for patients with primary spinal tumors to improve their disease cognition, achieve shared decision-making, and enhance the therapeutic effect, survival rate, and quality of life. At the same time, physicians should respect patients' cultural preferences and individual differences for patients with spinal metastases. In addition, medical staff should provide psychological support and education for patients and their families while encouraging patients to adopt positive coping strategies.
Effect evaluation of teach-back strategy in health education of patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Xia Fuhai , Wang Guoqing , Yang Mengying , Xu Liwen , Wang Li
Published: November 2023

Objective To investigate the effect of teach-back strategy on hemodialysis related knowledge level, self-efficacy and self-management among hemodialysis patients.
Methods A total of 92 patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis were randomly divided into observation group (n = 46) and control group (n = 46) by random number table method. The control group received conventional health education, and the observation group received teach-back. The intervention lasted six months. The hemodialysis related knowledge level, self-efficacy and self-management of the two groups were evaluated before and after the intervention.
Results There were no significant difference on hemodialysis related knowledgelevel, self-efficacy and self-management scores between the two groups before intervention (P > 0.05). After intervention, the scores of hemodialysis knowledge in the observation group was higher than that in the control group and before intervention. The total scores of self-efficacy and items “3,4,5” were higher than those of the control group. The total scores of self-efficacy and item “1 ~ 6” in the observation group were higher than before intervention. The total scores of self-managementand the three subscales of “problem solving”, “partnership” and “emotional processing” were higher than those of the control group and before intervention. All of the above differences were statistically significant (P< 0.05).
Conclusion Teach-back is helpful to improve the hemodialysis related knowledge level, self-efficacy and self-management level of patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis, and it is worth to be popularized clinically.
Antibacterial Potential of Carbon Quantum Dots against Escherichia coli Bacteria Strains
Authors: Pham Van Duong , Le Anh Thi , Pham Hong Minh , Do Hoang Tung , Le Duc Toan , Nguyen Thanh Binh , Nguyen Minh Hoa
Published: November 2023

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with exciting optical properties, low toxicity, and high biocompatibility which are suitable for research in biomedical applications. In this work, the CQDs were prepared through microplasma treatment of orange juice as a carbon source, employing atmospheric pressure and low temperatures. The resulting CQDs exhibited a narrow size distribution, with an average diameter of approximately 4.5 nm. These CQDs displayed strong blue emission characteristics. We evaluated the antibacterial properties of these CQDs against Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria strains, using minimum inhibitory concentration assays. Our findings revealed that the minimum inhibitory concentration required for effective inhibition of E. coli was 0.1 ppm, while the minimum bactericidal concentration for this kind of bacteria was 1 ppm with an average antibacterial efficacy of 57%. The antibacterial processes of CQDs could occur without additional light or oxidant.
Microstructural and mechanical properties of dissimilar SMAW process joints of DP Steels obtained by intercritical heat treatment from AISI 1010 steel
Authors: LAROUI WALID , Chegroune Redouane , Hariti Samir , Bouchareb Hicham , Keddam Mourad , Badji Riad
Published: November 2023

Dual phase steel is a kind of advanced high strength steel used in automotive industry to reduce a fuel consumption. The present study assesses the microstructural and mechanical behavior of a dissimilar butt-welded dual-phase steel by Shielded Metal Arc Welding process. The ferrite phase with variable martensite fraction from 27–70% was obtained by water quenching at different inter-critical temperatures from a plate carbon steel AISI 1010 having a microstructure consisting of ferrite and pearlite. The mechanical properties, strength and ductility of DP steels were influenced by martensite volume fraction (MVF). When MVF reached value of 70%, the strength was improved by 28% and the elongation was decreased by 25%. Additionally, the DP steels obey to the two-stage strain hardening behavior. The obtained DP steels were welded by a shield metal arc weld (SMAW) process in a single pass while maintaining a constant heat input. Systematic analysis of dissimilar welded joints, microstructure and microhardness, revealed that the fusion zones remain unchanged. Tensile test of weld joints showed lower ultimate tensile strength (UTS), elongation and strain hardening exponent compared to the dual phase (DP) steel. The DP700/DP900 welded joint have the highest ultimate tensile strength compared to the other welded joints due to its higher martensite volume fraction.
Upgrading of physical and elemental quality of wheat straw pellets using additive blends
Authors: Nath Bidhan , Chen Guangnan , Bowtell Les , Nguyen Thong
Published: November 2023

Densification of biomass is typically done by pelletising to produce clean fuel from renewable resources. This study investigated the impact of additive blends for wheat straw pellet making and upgrading the physiochemical properties. Five additives, including sawdust (SD), bentonite clay (BC), corn starch (S), crude glycerol (CG), and biochar (BioC) were chosen for this study. Pellets were made from seven different combinations using a laboratory-scale pellet mill. The pellets' physical and elemental quality was evaluated and compared with ISO 17225-8 standards. The pellet’s mechanical durability, tensile strength and bulk density increased from 80 to 99%, 0.36 to 2.09 MPa, and 244 to 665.21 kg/m3, respectively, which met the requirements of the ISO standards. The additive blend pellets (T3 ~ T7) had a fines content of less than 2%, also meeting the ISO standard. Further, all pellets showed a water absorption capacity under 2%, except T1 and T5. Finally, the fixed carbon contents increased from 11.1–30.90% and energy contents from 17.02 to 20.36 MJ/kg, which showed a significant synergistic effect of blending additives. Overall, pellets with additives mixed met the pellet ISO standard specification requirements, except for inorganic ash content. The study demonstrated that wheat straw is a good biomass source for pellet-making for energy applications, but further research on suitable additive mixing is still needed.
Objective assessment of syndesmosis stability with an innovative Syndesmosis-Test-Tool - a biomechanical study
Authors: Kohler Felix Christian , Hallbauer Jakob , Herrmann Lea , Ullrich Bernhard Wilhelm , Biedermann Uta , Wildemann Britt , Hofmann Gunther Olaf , Ramm Roland , Lenz Mark , Marintschev Ivan , Schenk Philipp
Published: November 2023

When treating ankle fractures, the question of syndesmosis complex involvement often arises. So far there is no standardized method to reliably detect syndesmosis injuries in the surgical treatment of ankle fractures. For this reason, an intraoperative Syndesmosis-Test-Tool (SST) was developed and compared to the recommended and established Hook-Test (HT).
Tests were performed on cadaveric lower legs (n=20) and the diastasis was visualized by 3D camera. Tests were performed at 50, 80, and 100 N in native condition and in four instability levels. Instability was induced from anterior to posterior and the reverse on the opposite side. The impact on diastasis regarding the direction, the force level, the instability level and the device used was checked using a general linear model for repeated measurement.
The direction of the induced instability showed no influence on the diastasis during the stability tests. The diastasis measured with the SST increased from 0.5 to 3.0 mm depending on the instability, while the range was lower with the HT (1.1 to 2.3 mm). The results showed that the differentiation between the instability levels was statistically significant better for the developed SST. The last level of maximum instability was significantly better differentiable with the STT compared to the HT. An average visualizable diastasis of more than 2 mm could only be achieved at maximum instability. In conclusion, to detect instability, the newly developed STT was superior to the commonly used HT.
Establishment and validation of a nomogram predicting the risk of deep vein thrombosis before total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Wang Zehua , Mao Xingjia , Guo Zijian , guoyu Che , Xiang Changxin , Xiang Chuan
Published: November 2023

Purpose This study aimed to analyze the independent risk factors contributing to preoperative DVT in TKA and constructed a predictive nomogram to accurately evaluate its occurrence based on these factors. Methods The study encompassed 496 patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty at our hospital between June 2022 and June 2023. The dataset was randomly divided into a training set (n = 348) and a validation set (n = 148) in a 7:3 ratio. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to screen the predictors of preoperative DVT occurrence in TKA and construct a nomogram. The performance of the predictive models was evaluated using the concordance index (C-index), calibration curves, and the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Decision curve analysis was used to analyze the clinical applicability of nomogram. Results A total of 496 patients who underwent TKA were included in this study, of which 28 patients were examined for lower extremity DVT preoperatively. Platelet crit, Platelet distribution width, Procalcitonin, prothrombin time, and D-dimer were predictors of preoperative occurrence of lower extremity DVT in the nomograms of the TKA patients. In addition, the areas under the curve of the ROC of the training and validation sets were 0.935 (95%CI: 0.880–0.990) and 0.854 (95%CI: 0.697-1.000), and the C-indices of the two sets were 0.919 (95%CI: 0.860–0.978) and 0.900 (95%CI: 0.791–1.009). The nomogram demonstrated precise risk prediction of preoperative DVT occurrence in TKA as confirmed by the calibration curve and decision curve analysis. Conclusions This Nomogram demonstrates great differentiation, calibration and clinical validity. By assessing individual risk, clinicians can promptly detect the onset of DVT, facilitating additional life monitoring and necessary medical interventions to prevent the progression of DVT effectively.
Phylogenetic analysis of ribosomal ITS region of Diaporthe destruens collected in Japan.
Authors: Hashimoto Shuichi , Kawabe Masato , Yoshida Shigenobu
Published: November 2023

To discover genetic relationships between domestic and foreign strains of Diaporthe destruens, 135 strains of D. destruens were collected in Japan, and ITS, TUB, TEF, H3, and CAL regions were sequenced. All collected strains had the same sequences in each region, implying high genetic homogeneity of collected strains. A phylogenetic tree was constructed for ITS sequence with foreign strains. In the tree, our samples were positioned closely to Korean and Chinese samples but distant from most of the Taiwanese samples. Our study provides an insight into genetic diversity of D. destruens, which has been spreading in Japan.
Long-term Outcome for Children Undergoing Open Hepatico-jejunostomy for Choledochal Malformations: a 43-year Single-center Experience
Authors: Stern Maria Vittoria , Boroni Giovanni Boroni , Parolini Filippo , Torri Fabio , Calza Stefano , Alberti Daniele
Published: November 2023

Purpose
To report on our 43-year single-center experience with children operated on for Choledochal Malformations (CMs), focusing on long term results and quality of life (QoL).
Materials and Methods
All consecutive pediatric patients with CMs who underwent surgical treatment at our center between October 1980 and December 2022 were enrolled in this retrospective study. We focused on long-term postoperative complications (POCs), considered to be complications arising at least 5 years after surgery. We analyzed QoL status once patients reached adulthood, comparing the results with a control group of the same age and sex.
Results
113 patients underwent open excision of CMs with a Roux-en-Y hepaticojejunostomy (HJ). The median follow-up was 8.95 years (IQR: 3.74–24.41). Major long-term POCs occurred in six patients (8.9%), with a median presentation of 11 years after surgery. The oldest patient is currently 51. No cases of biliary malignancy were detected. The QoL of our patients was comparable with the control group.
Conclusion
Our experience suggests that open complete excision of CMs with HJ achieves excellent results in terms of long-term postoperative outcomes. However, since the most severe complications can occur many years after surgery, international cooperation is advisable to define a precise transitional care follow-up protocol.
PD-L1 Antibody Conjugated Dihydrotanshinone I-loaded Polymeric Nanoparticle for Targeted Cancer Immunotherapy Combining PD-L1 Blockade with Immunogenic Cell Death
Authors: Wang Xue , Jing Ziqi , Yan Tianyue , Huang Xiaobin , Zhang Yujie , Wang Zhijun , Ma Pengkai
Published: November 2023

Purpose: Combination immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) with chemotherapeutic agents has proven to be highly promising in cancer therapy. However, low response rate, immune-related adverse events, and lack of effectively targeted co-delivery strategy are still major hurdles to overcome for this combination therapeutic regimen. Herein, programmed death-L1 (PD-L1) antibody modified and dihydrotanshinone I (DHT) loaded nanoparticle was prepared for tumor targeting drug delivery, thus achieving immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) and immunogenic cell death (ICD) synergistic anti-tumor effects.
Methods: The DHT-loaded nanoparticle (DHT NP) was prepared by the emulsion solvent diffusion method. Atezolizumab (ATEZO) was thiolated with 2-iminothiolane and conjugated to the surface of DHT NP to prepare the ATEZO DHT NP. The drug encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, particle size and drug release were determined. The in vitro cellular uptake, cell proliferation inhibition and apoptosis were evaluated on the HGC-27 tumor cell. The in vivo tumor targeting, anti-tumor efficiency and immune regulation were assessed on tumor bearing mice.
Results: The optimized ATEZO DHT NP was a spherical nanoparticle of about 250 nm with a continuous drug release profile. It was selectively taken up by the tumor cells through PD-L1 receptor-mediated endocytosis, which resulted in enhanced cytotoxicity and cell apoptosis. In vivo imaging further demonstrated its superior tumor tissue targeting ability. When tumor bearing mice were treated with the ATEZO DHT NP, its synergistic anti-tumor effect was much stronger than that of a single drug. Moreover, the tumor targeting delivery of DHT caused tumor necrosis and initiated ICD with release of tumor-associated antigens, which efficiently up-regulated the population of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Notably, there were no obvious system toxicity or tissue damage occur during the whole treatment period.
Conclusion: The ATEZO DHT NP could specifically target to tumor and enhance treatment efficiency through combination of PD-L1 blockade with ICD effect.
Community health workers’ dissemination of COVID-19 information and services in the early pandemic response: A narrative review
Authors: Oliver Jane , Ferdinand Angeline , Kaufman Jessica , Allard Nicole , Danchin Margie , Gibney Katherine B.
Published: November 2023

Background
Community health workers (CHWs) had important roles mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in vulnerable communities. We described how CHWs supported the dissemination of COVID-19 information and services during the early pandemic response.
Methods
Online article searches were conducted across five scientific databases, with review article reference lists hand searched to identify grey/unpublished literature. Articles were included if they reported on a program that engaged CHWs and aimed to prevent/control COVID-19.
Results
Nineteen relevant programs were identified from 18 included articles. CHWs were widely engaged in the pandemic response, especially in low- and middle-income countries and in vulnerable communities. CHWs’ ability to effectively disseminate COVID-19 information/services was enabled by community trust and understanding community needs. CHWs were often underfunded and required to work in difficult conditions. Pre-existing services incorporating CHWs rapidly adapted to the new challenges brought by the pandemic.
Conclusions
We recommend establishing programs that employ CHWs to disseminate health information and services in communities at-risk of misinformation and poor health outcomes during non-pandemic times. CHWs are well-placed to deliver interventions should an infectious disease outbreak arise. Having pre-existing trusted relationships between CHWs and community members may help protect vulnerable groups, including when outbreaks occur.
Seismic Response Analysis of a Specific Pagoda in China
Authors: Li XiaoPeng , Mi Yuancheng , Li Hong , Zhou Zixiang , Wang Jia , Guo Zhongfa , Liu Dewen , Sun Weiwei
Published: November 2023

The ancient pagoda is a vital component of China's traditional architectural culture and ranks as one of the treasures in the history of Chinese architecture. However, due to natural disasters and man-made damage, many ancient pagodas have been partially or completely destroyed. In this study, dynamic analysis under seismic loads was conducted using the ABAQUS finite element analysis software on a deteriorated ancient pagoda. Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) was employed to reinforce the weakened sections with the aim of enhancing the pagoda's seismic resistance. The results of the analysis indicate that the pagoda is susceptible to further damage and potential collapse under seismic loads. Reinforcing the structure with CFRP material reduces structural stress and mitigates displacement peaks, thereby improving overall structural ductility and load-bearing capacity, effectively safeguarding the integrity of the pagoda.
Facile synthesis and fine morphological tuning of dendritic mesoporous silica&titania nanospheres
Authors: Shu Yue , Tao Jianghui , Wang Yanni , Huang Liangzhu , Wang Yabin
Published: November 2023

In comparison with traditional mesoporous materials, dendritic mesoporous silica&titania nanospheres (DMSTNs) with three-dimensional central radial pore channels and multiscale pores have larger pore volume, higher specific surface area, and easier accessible surfaces, making them promising carrier platforms for the applications in catalysis, drug delivery, heavy metals adsorption, etc. In this study, DMSTNs have been manufactured by a one-pot co-condensation method using titanium(diisopropoxide) bis(2,4-pentanedionate) (TDA) as the titanium source. Their morphologies and structures have been finely tuned by TDA content, reaction temperature, stirring rate, solvents, and so forth. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) have been utilized to directly reveal their differences. Two typical kinds of DMSTNs synthesized at different temperatures have been compared, covering N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectrum, ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis-DRS), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), etc. XPS and Raman results testify that the chemical composition and architecture of these DMSTNs resemble those of titanium silicalite-1 (TS-1) zeolite. The hydrogen yield and the corresponding rate of DMSTNs synthesized at 120 ℃ are 3.56 µmol·g-1 and 0.71 µmol·g-1·h-1, being about 2.99 times higher than those of DMSNs that solely own SiO2 in the skeleton. Nevertheless, DMSTNs synthesized at 70 ℃ possess a 10.08 µmol·g-1 yield and a 2.04 µmol·g-1·h-1 rate, nearly 8.47 times higher than those of DMSNs.
Functional apoptosis profiling reveals vulnerabilities in T-cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Shumilov Evgenii , Mazzeo Paolo , Trautmann Marcel , Aperdannier Lena , Menck Kerstin , Richter Katharina , Haase Detlef , Oberle Elena , Berning Philipp , Hartmann Wolfgang , Ströbel Philipp , Kerkhoff Andrea , Lenz Georg , Wulf Gerald , Koch Raphael
Published: November 2023

T-cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia (T-LGL) is a rare hematologic neoplasm characterized by clonal expansion of CD3+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes and a highly heterogeneous clinical course. Conventional therapy primarily includes immunosuppressive regimen. However, optimal front-line approaches still need to be defined and refractory disease remains a clinical challenge. Thus, we here aimed to explore functional dependencies of T-LGL as a basis for personalized therapeutic strategies.
We performed functional apoptosis profiling and ex vivo drug treatment in a series of 6 clinically and genetically characterized T-LGL patients from two German University hospitals.
Our series of 6 patients underscored the clinical and genetic heterogeneity of the disease. Genetically, only 2 patients harbored a STAT3 mutation. To identify targetable anti-apoptotic mechanisms, we performed selective functional BH3 profiling on the patients’ T-LGL versus the same patients’ normal T-cells. T-LGL cells in 50% of the patients (3/6) demonstrated a dominant functional dependence on MCL-1 as compared to the same patients’ normal T-cells. Accordingly, T-LGL cells from patients with enhanced MCL1 dependence significantly responded to AZD-5991 ex vivo while no response was observed in the remaining samples lacking enhanced MCL-1 dependence.
Across clinically and genetically heterogeneous cases of T-LGL, functional apoptosis profiling identified patients with dominant dependence on MCL-1 and provided a basis for a targeted therapeutic approach.
Determination of Temporal Stability and Instrument Performance of an airborne QCLAS via Allan-Werle-plots
Authors: Röder Lenard L. , Ort Linda M. , Lelieveld Jos , Fischer Horst
Published: November 2023

Allan-Werle-plots are an established tool in infrared absorption spectroscopy to quantify temporal stability, maximum integration time and best achievable precision of a measurement instrument. In field measurements aboard a moving platform, however, long integration times reduce time resolution and smooth atmospheric variability. A high accuracy and time resolution are necessary as well as an appropriate estimate of the measurement uncertainty. In this study, Allan-Werle-plots of calibration gas measurements are studied to analyze the temporal characteristics of a Quantum Cascade Laser Absorption Spectrometer (QCLAS) instrument for airborne operation. Via least-squares fitting the individual noise contributions can be quantified and different dominant regimes can be identified. Through simulation of data according to the characteristics from the Allan-Werle-plot, the effects of selected intervals between in-flight calibrations can be analyzed. An interval of 30 min is found sufficient for successful drift correction during ground operation. The linear interpolation of the sensitivity increases the accuracy and lowers the measurement uncertainty from 1.1 % to 0.2 %. Airborne operation yields similar results during segments of stable flight but additional flicker and sinusoidal contributions. Simulations verify an appropriate interval of 30 min in airborne operation. The expected airborne measurement uncertainty is in the range 0.8 % to 2.4 %.
Family Accommodation and Separation Anxiety: The Moderating Role of Child Attachment
Authors: Weeks Gillian A. , Sakmar Elcin , Clark Taylar A. , Rose Anastasia M. , Silverman Wendy K. , Lebowitz Eli R.
Published: November 2023

Family accommodation, or changes in parental behavior aimed at avoiding or alleviating child anxiety-related distress, contributes to the severity of anxiety symptoms, and is most strongly associated with separation anxiety symptoms. This study examined whether child attachment security, characterized as the degree to which children perceive their parents to be reliable, available, and communicative, moderates the association between family accommodation and separation anxiety symptoms, and whether this moderator is specific to separation anxiety among other anxiety symptoms. In a sample of clinically anxious youth (N = 243, 6–12 yrs), family accommodation was significantly positively associated with separation anxiety symptoms across levels of attachment security. Family accommodation was more strongly associated with separation anxiety symptoms in children with lower attachment security compared with those with higher attachment security. No significant moderation effect emerged for other anxiety symptoms. Findings enhance understanding of the role of attachment within family accommodation of child anxiety.
Comparative Visual Performance of Ultraviolet Light-Filtering and Violet Light-Filtering Monofocal Intraocular Lenses of the Same Material and Basic Design
Authors: Tanabe Hirotaka , Tabuchi Hitoshi , Shojo Tomohiro , Yamauchi Tomofusa , Takase Kosuke
Published: November 2023

We compared the visual performance of ultraviolet light-filtering (ZCB00, Johnson & Johnson Surgical Vision) and violet light-filtering (ZCB00V, same manufacturer) monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) of the same material and basic design 10 weeks after the last surgery for implantation with bilateral lenses implanted ≤ 3 months apart in cataract patients treated between 2011 and 2020. The ZCB00 and ZCB00V groups comprised 904 eyes of 452 patients (72.3 ± 6.8 years; females/males, 268/184) and 1374 eyes of 687 patients (73.0 ± 7.4 years; female/male, 415/272), respectively. A linear mixed-effects model using the binocular data, with strict adjustments for sex, age, subjective refraction spherical equivalent, subjective refraction cylinder, corneal astigmatism, axial length, corneal higher-order aberrations, and pupil diameter, ensured statistical validity. Uncorrected intermediate/near visual acuity, corrected near visual acuity, and certain 25-item Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ-25) components (Role_Limitation, Mental_Health, Social_Function, Distance_Vision, Color_Vision) were slightly but significantly better in ZCB00 recipients (p < 0.05, Wald). In contrast, ZCB00V recipients had significantly better contrast sensitivity with glare (visual angle of target: 6.3°/4.0°/0.7°; p < 0.00068, Wald), slightly but significantly better contrast sensitivity without (4.0°/2.5°/1.6°) and with glare (2.5°/1.6°/1.0°), VFQ-25 General_Health scores, and near spectacle independence, and slightly but significantly smaller higher-order aberrations (internal, scaled to a 6-mm pupil; Wavefront_6_post_I_Trefoil) (p < 0.05, Wald).
Unlocking Nature's Secrets for Athletic Performance Excellence: Herbal Supplement Utilization Among Young Palestinian Soccer Athletes
Authors: Amer Faten , Alatrash Mahmoud
Published: November 2023

Background:
Herbal supplements have gained popularity among athletes and individuals engaged in sports who seek natural methods to enhance performance and well-being. This study offers unique insights into the diverse herbal supplement practices among athletes, particularly Palestinian soccer players, providing valuable perspectives on optimizing physical performance.
Methods:
In 2023, a cross-sectional study was conducted in the West Bank of Palestine, with 155 participants, representing 64.58% of Palestinian soccer athletes. The research meticulously documented the herbal supplements used, including herb names, plant parts, preparation techniques, intended purposes, and information sources. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel, focusing on frequencies and percentages. Use values (UV) were computed to assess the relative importance of each herb species.
Results:
The study achieved a robust 93.94% response rate, with 144 athletes confirming herbal supplement usage. These athletes, primarily aged 18-25 (mean age 20.34), exhibited versatility in employing various techniques for supplement preparation and consumption. Information sources varied, with a reliance on traditional knowledge, advice from herbalists (known as "Attar" in Arabic), and emerging online trends. Athletes mainly turned to botanical supplements for enhancing physical endurance and strength, alleviating joint and muscle discomfort, and stimulating the central nervous system. Calculated use values underscored the significance of these practices within the Palestinian cultural context. A total of 1675 recommendations were recorded, with the top 10 recommended herbs, including ginseng, small nettle, olive, date, chili pepper, green tea, fenugreek, soy, coffee, and mate, receiving about 55% of all recommendations.
Conclusion: This ethnopharmacological study unveils herbal supplement practices among Palestinian soccer athletes, drawing from traditional knowledge and diverse information sources. It identifies the top 10 recommended herbs, offering practical insights for sports professionals and athletes. The study serves as a foundation for future ethnopharmacological research and underscores the importance of evaluating information sources. Further investigations in this domain are warranted.
Neue Kunstmusik für die moderne Türkei : die kultur- und gesellschaftspolitische nationale und internationale Bedeutung der Sinfonien von Ahmed Adnan Saygun als eine Ausprägung des Kulturtransfers der türkischen zeitgenössischen Kunstmusik
Authors:   , Demirci Deniz
Published: November 2023

Diese Arbeit beschäftigt sich mit der türkischen Musikpolitik in der Zeit von Atatürk und seinem Auftrag insbesondere an den Komponisten, Ahmed Adnan Saygun, im Rahmen der vielfältigen Reformen in der jungen türkischen Republik, eine zeitgenössische türkische Kunstmusik zu schaffen. Mit dem Begriff des Kulturtransfers wird die Umsetzung von Atatürks Musikpolitik beschrieben, der auf die Entwicklung der Musik im 19. Jahrhundert, dem Zeitalter des sogenannten Nationalismus, zurückgreift und mit dem Kulturtransfer anderer Nationen verglichen wurde. Neben Saygun wurde auch das Wirken von vier anderen türkischen Komponisten, die mit Saygun die sogenannten ‚Türkischen Fünf‘ bildeten, erwähnt, die diesen Auftrag Atatürks sehr unterschiedlich umsetzten in einer Zeit der gesellschaftlichen Veränderungen und des ‚Kulturkampfs‘. In diesem Zusammenhang wurden die fünf Sinfonien von Saygun analysiert, der als ein Vorbild und Pionier fast aller Arten türkisch-klassischer Musik im Rahmen dieser musikalischen Revolution angesehen werden kann. Saygun hat in Zusammenarbeit mit Béla Bartók türkische Volkslieder aufgenommen, verschriftlicht und systematisiert. In dieser Arbeit wurde daher untersucht, wie Saygun, der die türkische Kunst- und Volksmusik sowie in Paris die westeuropäische klassische Musik studiert hat, diese mit Mitteln klassischer Musikformen verbindet. Anhand der fünf Sinfonien von Ahmed Adnan Saygun wird gezeigt, dass er nicht nur als Komponist, sondern auch als Musikethnologe eine führende Rolle in der zeitgenössischen türkischen Kunstmusik übernahm und über den Kulturtransfer hinaus eine eigene ‚musikalische Sprache‘ entwickelte. Eine der wichtigsten Quellen dieser Arbeit sind die handschriftlichen Partituren der Sinfonien und die Originalartikel von Ahmed Adnan Saygun, insbesondere Sayguns handgeschriebene Artikel ‚Orkestra‘ (dt.: Orchester) und die Artikelsammlung ‚Yalan‘ (dt.: Lüge), die in die deutsche Sprache übersetzt wurden. Als Ergebnisse der Analyse und Interpretation dieser und anderer Quellen, konnten Methoden aufgezeigt werden, die in Sayguns Werke und insbesondere in seinen Sinfonien in rhythmischen, melodischen, harmonischen und motivisch-thematischen Strukturkonstruktionen verwendet und als Beispiele einer zeitgenössischen türkischen Kunstmusik interpretiert werden. Dabei wurde herausgearbeitet, wie Saygun Elemente der türkischen Kunst- und Volksmusik verwendete, diese zunächst in tradierte Formen westeuropäischer klassischer Musik einbettete, um unter Hinzuziehung von eigenen kunstphilosophischen Ansätzen eine Form von ‚universaler Musik‘ zu kreieren.
Elements of Style in Floral Arrangements: How Discerning Are Consumers Toward Floristry Design Principles and How Much Are They Willing to Pay?
Authors: Knuth Melinda , Woods Vanessa , Wu Xuan (Jade) , Hall Charlie , Palma Marco
Published: November 2023

Florists use design theory to create arrangements that they assume will be pleasing to consumers, thus increasing purchase rates and spending. However, certain elements of design theory and their relationship with consumer acceptance and spending have not been empirically tested. Using mixed logit models and eye-tracking technology, we investigated whether consumer preferences support three key elements of existing floral design theory: line, color, and form. We also examined consumer preferences for floral species, which, although not a traditional element of design theory, may influence consumer purchasing decisions. Our findings challenge existing design theory because consumers did not uniformly favor it. Instead, they valued symmetrical form, arrangements with similar (but not identical) colors, and, surprisingly, the presence of roses in an arrangement was the most crucial factor in capturing consumer attention and increasing the willingness to pay.
Effect of Individual Protective Covers on Young ‘Valencia’ Orange (Citrus sinensis) Tree Physiology
Authors: Gaire Susmita , Albrecht Ute , Alferez Fernando
Published: November 2023

Huanglongbing (HLB), an important citrus disease, causes many physiological and anatomical changes such as phloem dysfunction, imbalance in carbohydrate partitioning, decrease in leaf chlorophyll, and nutritional imbalances in the affected trees, ultimately resulting in tree decline. In Florida, HLB is associated with phloem-limited bacteria Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), and it is vectored by the Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri). No cure for HLB has been found, and most of the HLB management efforts have been focused on vector control or exclusion, improved nutrient management, and the use of HLB-tolerant rootstocks. Individual protective covers (IPCs) are a type of psyllid exclusion tool that is increasingly used by growers for HLB management of newly planted citrus trees. However, no studies have evaluated their influence on citrus tree physiology. This study investigated the effect of IPCs and different rates of insecticides on CLas infection and different physiological attributes, including soluble (glucose, fructose, and sucrose) and nonsoluble (starch) carbohydrates, leaf chlorophyll, and leaf macronutrients and micronutrients over 2.5 years of field growth. The treatments (tree cover and insecticides rate) were applied in newly planted ‘Valencia’ sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) trees grafted on ‘Cleopatra’ (C. reticulata) rootstock. The IPCs prevented CLas transmission and accumulation of foliar starch, sucrose, and glucose commonly associated with HLB. IPC-covered trees had more leaf chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-b than noncovered trees and more leaf nitrogen (N) and zinc (Zn). Our findings suggest that IPCs effectively prevent CLas infection and maintain the physiological health of young citrus trees under heavy HLB pressure. Therefore, IPCs are recommended as an important component of integrated pest management for this devastating disease.
Breeding Lettuce for Resistance against Sclerotinia minor
Authors: Simko Ivan , Subbarao Krishna V. , Hayes Ryan
Published: November 2023

Lettuce drop caused by Sclerotinia minor is a damaging disease of romaine lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) production in California. Introgression of partial resistance from wild, primitive, or heirloom accessions into modern cultivars could improve integrated management approaches to the disease. Breeding methods for lettuce drop resistance are not well developed and hinder the development of new lettuce drop–resistant cultivars. The objective of this work was to develop a pedigree-based breeding method for introgression of lettuce drop resistance into modern romaine germplasm. Progeny from crosses between the partially resistant cultivar Eruption and the susceptible romaine cultivars Darkland and Hearts Delight were selected in a modified pedigree breeding scheme. Families were evaluated for disease incidence and selected for lettuce drop resistance in artificially infested field experiments conducted in the summer and fall. Infected plants of partially resistant lines commonly do not produce seed, and therefore selection of resistant plants from infested nurseries is not possible. Noninfested field experiments were used to select individual plants with improved horticultural characteristics for seed production, but from within resistant families only. Evaluation and selection of progeny using this breeding scheme occurred from the F2:3 through the F5:6 generations. In all generations, superior resistance was identified in the ‘Eruption’ × romaine crosses. The breeding scheme generated eight green romaine-type inbred lines with better resistance than the romaine parent and better head weight than ‘Eruption’. Use of the new romaine lines as parents in backcrosses to romaine produced F2:3 families with high levels of resistance. The pedigree method used in this research can be implemented with any source of resistance, but is constrained by the use of family selection and the inability to select individual plants for resistance directly. Breeding schemes that use single seed descent or molecular markers are alternative approaches that would enable selection for resistance on individual genotypes.
Evaluation of Camellia Cultivars and Selections for Growth, Cold-hardiness, Flowering, and Disease Resistance in Tennessee, USA
Authors: Parajuli Madhav , Shreckhise Jacob , Fare Donna , Moore Benjamin , Liyanapathiranage Prabha , Subedi Pratima , Baysal-Gurel Fulya
Published: November 2023

Susceptibility to low-temperature injury and diseases is a major concern associated with ornamental camellia production. To comprehensively understand their growth, cold-hardiness, flowering, and disease resistance, 24 camellia (Camellia spp. and hybrids) cultivars and selections were evaluated in McMinnville, TN, USA (USDA plant hardiness zone 7a). During Mar 2011, camellias were planted in the field plots. Plant height and canopy width were measured annually from 2011 to 2019, and low-temperature damage was recorded in 2014 and 2023. The flowering duration was recorded each year from 2011 to 2020. The Camellia Yellow Mottle Virus, monochaetia leaf spot (Monochaetia sp.), edema, flower blight (Ciborinia camelliae), and flower spot (Botrytis cinerea) severity (% affected) were evaluated from Oct to Nov in 2016 and 2017. The season-long area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) was calculated. Cultivars Arctic Snow and Pink Icicle exhibited the greatest height, and Autumn Spirit, Elaine Lee, Arctic Snow, and Survivor had the widest canopy width, whereas Shishigashira had the lowest height and canopy width. ‘April Remembered’, ‘April Rose’, ‘Arctic Snow’, ‘Ashton’s Ballet’, ‘Autumn Carnival’, ‘Autumn Spirit’, ‘Elaine Lee’, ‘Survivor’, and C. chekiangoleosa selection were least affected by winter low temperatures, whereas ‘Korean Snow’, ‘One Alone’, C. sasanqua selection, ‘Pink Icicle’, and ‘Shishigashira’ were severely damaged. ‘Arctic Snow’ flowered most reliably (6 of 8 years), whereas ‘April Remembered’, ‘April Rose’, ‘Ashton’s Ballet’, ‘Autumn Spirit’, and ‘Survivor’ flowered five times. ‘Korean Fire’, ‘Classic Pink’, ‘Maroon Mist’, and ‘Spring’s Promise’ displayed the highest virus severity and AUDPC. ‘Arctic Snow’, C. sasanqua selection, and the C. chekiangoleosa selection had no viral symptoms. C. sasanqua selection and ‘Red Aurora’ were significantly impacted by edema disorder, with severity ratings of ∼43% and 26%, respectively. Monochaetia leaf spot severity was highest in ‘Red Aurora’ and ‘Spring’s Promise’, whereas ‘Anacostia’, ‘Arctic Snow’, ‘Ashton’s Ballet’, ‘Autumn Spirit’, ‘Classic Pink’, ‘Kuro Delight’, ‘One Alone’, ‘Pink Icicle’, ‘Shishigashira’, and ‘Survivor’ exhibited the least monochaetia leaf spot severity and AUDPC. Flower blight and flower spot were observed only in ‘Arctic Snow’ and ‘Survivor’. These findings will aid landscapers and nursery growers with selecting and managing camellia cultivars effectively.
Početci svijesti o zaštiti okoliša na području Europske unije
Authors: Raguž Bruno
Published: November 2023

Teme koje se bave istraživanjem okoliša danas su vrlo aktualne, no ovaj se rad vraća na same početke formiranja svijesti o zaštiti okoliša, propitujući njene osnovne odrednice – kako u vremenu i prostoru, tako i u uzrocima i posljedicama čovjekova djelovanja spram okoliša kao jednom od temeljnih elemenata historiografskog istraživanja. Rad nudi i kratki komparacijski osvrt na situaciju na području Republike Hrvatske te na kraju otvara prostor i za buduće diskusije, prije svega, u evaluaciji napretka i razvoja manifestacija zaštite okoliša u odnosu na one koje je ovo istraživanje detektiralo kao početne.
Unveiling individuals’ financial behavior patterns: The Polish-Ukrainian case study in the pre-war period
Authors: Polishchuk Yevheniia , Maiurchenko Valentyna , Tereshchenko Oleg , Budiaiev Maksym , Onikiienko Serhii
Published: November 2023

The study investigates the financial behavior of Ukrainians residing in Ukraine and Poland, aiming to identify patterns for the development of customized financial literacy programs. Additionally, it assesses Ukrainians’ preparedness, within their behavioral patterns, for global crises leading to financial shocks. During January-February 2022, a survey method was used to collect data from randomly chosen two groups of representatives of Ukrainians in Poland (N1 = 280) and Ukraine (N2 = 341). Data were proceeded with SPSS. Common patterns were revealed for both Ukraine and Poland, which are based on traditions and personal beliefs: disciplined cash flows controlling of personal budget and forming reserves for different types of crises; concentration on short-term plans and avoiding long-term ones; lack of trust to financial institutions for saving money. Among distinguished patterns are the following: In Poland, Ukrainians are more responsible and attentive to consumer loans, regularly receive and pay bills. In Poland, the investment portfolio of Ukrainians has a more diverse set of instruments. Online financial services are preferable in Poland. The study helps to identify if financially Ukrainians were ready to resist the russian war in Ukraine. Almost 30% of Ukrainians in Ukraine and 25% in Poland had only reserve for the period 1-3 months. In both countries, they claim they are ready to cover sources of covering unforeseen expenses from their reserves (more than 50% of respondents). AcknowledgmentsThe authors would like to express their gratitude to the Kirkland Scholarship Program, the Leaders of Change Foundation, the Polish American Freedom Foundation, the University of Wroclaw and personally to Marek Wróblewski, Professor at the University of Wroclaw, Associate of Ukrainian banks, and to those who helped to disseminate information about the survey, including the Foundation Ukraine, as well as to the respondents and all those who expressed interest in the results.