bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interferon Regulatory Factor 4 (IRF4) Promotes Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Colonic Mucosal Epithelial Cell Proliferation by Regulating Macrophage Polarization
Authors: Hu Lin , Li Song , Li Honglang , Lai Bin , Wen Huabin
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic disease characterized by diffuse inflammation of the mucosa of colon and rectum. Interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) mediates macrophage anti-inflammatory phenotype (alternatively activated macrophages [M2]). This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of IRF4 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced colonic mucosal epithelial cell proliferation via the regulation of macrophage polarization. Methods: Human bone marrow-derived macrophages were subjected to interleukin 4 (IL-4) induction. M2 macrophages were identified using flow cytometry and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). IRF4 expression in M2 macrophages was detected using Western blot and qRT-PCR. IRF4 expression was silenced in M2 macrophages. IL-10 mRNA expression and protein level were detected using qRT-PCR and Western blot. The binding relation between IRF4 and IL-10 was verified using dual-luciferase and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays. Macrophages under different treatments were cocultured with LPS-induced human colonic mucosal epithelial cells. The levels of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β) were detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The proliferation of inflammatory cells was measured using Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, and the healing of inflammatory cells was detected using wound healing assay. Results: M2 macrophages alleviated LPS-induced inflammatory responses. IRF4 bound to IL-10 and promoted IL-10 expression. Inhibition of IRF4 reduced IL-10 expression and attenuated the alleviating effect of M2 macrophages on inflammatory responses. Inhibition of IRF4 combined with IL-10 overexpression enhanced the promoting effect of M2 macrophages on inflammatory healing. Conclusion: IRF4 promoted colonic mucosal epithelial cell proliferation by increasing IL-10 expression and regulating macrophage polarization to M2 phenotype, which might be related to UC mucosal healing.
Strategies and Challenges in the Treatment of Dental Enamel
Authors: Dalir Abdolahinia Elaheh , Ilbeygi Taher Sadaf , Abdali Dehdezi Parnaz , Ataei Atefe , Azizi Majid , Afra Narges , Afshar Fard Samira , Sharifi Simin
Published: July 2022

Enamel tissue, the hardest body tissue, which covers the outside of the tooth shields the living tissue, but it erodes and disintegrates in the acidic environment of the oral cavity. On the one hand, mature enamel is cell-free and, if damaged, does not regenerate. Tooth sensitivity and decay are caused by enamel loss. On the other hand, the tissue engineering approach is challenging because of the unique structure of tooth enamel. To develop an exemplary method for dental enamel rebuilding, accurate knowledge of the structure of tooth enamel, knowing how it is created and how proteins interact in its structure, is critical. Furthermore, novel techniques in tissue engineering for using stem cells to develop enamel must be established. This article aims to discuss current attempts to regenerate enamel using synthetic materials methods, recent advances in enamel tissue engineering, and the prospects of enamel biomimetics to find unique insights into future possibilities for repairing enamel tissue, perhaps the most fascinating of all tooth tissues.
Flipped classrooms and their effect on Omani students’ vocabulary achievement and motivation towards learning English
Authors: Al Qasmi Amal Mohammed Bati , Al Barwani Thuwayba , Al Seyabi Fawzia
Published: July 2022

This quasi-experimental study aimed to investigate the effect of the flipped classroom strategy (FCS) on Omani grade ten students’ vocabulary achievement and on their motivation towards learning English. This study also sought to explore the challenges that students face while learning via FCS. A total of 48 students participated in the study. There were 24 as an experimental group (taught via the FCS) and 24 as a control group (taught the same vocabulary using conventional teaching strategies). During the intervention, students in the experimental group practiced the core vocabulary using different materials (video clips, PDF files and group discussions via a WhatsApp group before carrying out face-to-face activities in the classroom). During the classroom time, the students engaged in activities with the practice materials individually, in pairs and in groups. The study used an achievement pre- and post-test. The study also used a motivation questionnaire (pre and post) to determine the students' motivation for English language learning for both groups. The findings indicated that the experimental group outperformed the control group in the vocabulary test and that they had high motivation towards learning English. In addition, the study also pointed out some of the challenges of learning via FCS such as connectivity issues, and lack of group cooperation. Considering these findings, practice implications and recommendations for further research are presented.
Online English language learning among tertiary students
Authors: Susanto Alpino , Khairiyah Karunia Yulinda , Dzirrusydi Zalmi , Sugiharti Sri
Published: July 2022

The online learning in English language has been going along with the rapid development and diffusion of the information and communication techologies and shifted from being merely marginal trend to become popular, where the number of higher education institutions has dramatically increased to offer and led to extremely changes many aspect in learning societies. This study explores the technical abilities, technology accessibility and self-directed learning that contribute to student attitudes towards online English learning in predicting the continuance intention of the online learning. This study employed quantitative approach. There were 10 tertiary students interviewed as preliminary study, then 36 students were surveyed through questionnaire in a pilot test. The validated questionaire were used in this study on the 102 students. Rasch measurement model was utilized to validate the 25 items of questionnaire, meanwhile the Smart PLS ver. 2.0 was used to assess the regression of exogen to endogen variables. The study concluded that self- directed learning contributed to the attitude towards online English language learning as mediator to continuance intention of online learning. The ability and positive attitude in using digital technology must be present to support English learning current and forthcoming. The next research can focus more on how students adapt to a variety of rapidly changing technologies to support their English skills.
Fear of missing out during a pandemic: the driving factors of telemedicine application acceptance
Authors: Noor Fakhruzzaman Muhammad , Palupi Ghea Sekar , Nurul Rochmah Thinni
Published: July 2022

COVID-19 pandemic changed how society behaves. Travel and social restrictions, commonly associated with the term lockdown became popular and ubiquitous. Given the rise of gig economy and mobile app delivery in the past several years, combined with lockdowns during the pandemic, and the application of telemedicine becomes essential. Halodoc is one of the popular telemedicine applications in Indonesia, having several useful features such as text-based doctor consultation and prescription drug order-delivery, and Halodoc is easily preferred by many. This article explored the motivation behind using Halodoc as the preferred method of getting health service during the pandemic, behind the perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of the application, we found that fear of missing out (FOMO) has an indirect role in the application adoption in society, especially during lockdowns, where social interaction is limited to social media and other internet-based platforms. The reason why FOMO can be an important factor in technology adoption and how advertisers should explore FOMO is further discussed.
Challenges from the disastrous COVID-19 pandemic: exposure to opportunities for branchless banking in Malaysia
Authors: Azhar Aziz Khairi , A. Jabar Marzanah , Abdullah Salfarina , Haizan Nor Rozi Nor
Published: July 2022

Branchless banking is a new digitalization of artificial intelligence (AI) for future banking services. The rapid digitalization and technological advancement of financial institutions (FI) have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Such branchless banks are expected to offer financial customers meaningful access whilst promoting responsible usage of suitable and affordable financial solutions. The objectives of this paper are to identify CSF to conduct branchless banking for bank performance during the attack of the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia. These CSFs are important to reinforce the new business model recommended by the central bank of Malaysia (BNM). Through this study five CSFs have been identified which are customers do not physically attend to the bank for their banking needs, it is more efficient, saves time, secured, and low cost. As the industrial revolution (IR) 4.0 approaches, public acceptance, innovation, and strong financial services, as well as demand of digital payment will take over the country. National savings bank (BSN) was officially the first bank in Malaysia to conduct branchless banking through agent banking. In line with the BNM division strategy 2011–2020, BSN had launched banking beyond branches via BSN agents who offer banking services on behalf of BSN.
The development of physics learning tools to improve critical thinking skills
Authors: Wenno Izaak Hendrik , Limba Anatasija , Silahoy Yessy Greintje Marged
Published: July 2022

One of the essential physics skills for students in today's era is critical thinking skills. This study offered physics learning tools with a scientific approach to improve critical thinking skills. The purpose of this research was to produce learning documents in the form of lesson plans, teaching materials, and Lorentz force physics test instruments with a scientific approach in improving students' critical thinking skills. This was research and development with a 4D model and steps, including the defining stage, namely the initial stage, to identify the problem. Then, the designing stage was carried out by developing the initial draft of learning tools and research instruments. Afterwards, the developing stage was the initial draft of the improvement stage based on the validation of experts, practitioners, limited trial, and piloted. The data collection instruments in this study consisted of validation sheets, test instruments to measure the implementation of teaching materials, observation sheets to observe teacher and student activities, tests to measure critical thinking skills, and questionnaire responses. The results proved that learning tools developed with a scientific approach improve students' critical thinking skills. Thus, scientific-based physics learning tools is recommended to be used as teaching materials for physics students to improve students' critical thinking skills. 
How adversity quotient and interpersonal communication affects teacher organizational citizenship behavior?
Authors: Sulistiasih Sulistiasih , Widodo Widodo
Published: July 2022

This study explored the empirical effect of adversity quotient (AQ) and interpersonal communication on teachers’ organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) mediated by organizational commitment. A questionnaire in Likert scale model collected research data. The sample were 469 teachers of primary schools in Indonesia selected by accidental sampling. Data analysis used path analysis supported by descriptive statistics and correlational matric. The research result indicated that AQ and interpersonal communication significantly affect teachers’ OCB, directly and indirectly, mediated by organizational commitment. Thus, the teachers’ OCB can enhance through AQ, interpersonal communication, and organizational commitment. Besides, a new model regarding the effect of AQ and interpersonal communication on teachers’ OCB mediated by organizational commitment also was confirmed. Therefore, the researchers and practitioners can adopt a new empirical model to increase teachers’ OCB through AQ, interpersonal communication, and organizational commitment in the future.
Developing the strategic collaboration model in basic education
Authors: Tahili Mashuri H. , Tolla Ismail , Ahmad Muhammad Arifin , Samad Sulaiman , Saman Abdul , Pattaufi Pattaufi
Published: July 2022

The strategic collaboration approach has recognized widely can overcome the complexities and challenges of teaching and learning programs and achieve sustainable education quality improvement. This study analyzed the development of a strategic collaboration approach in education at local government in Indonesia. The mixed-method analyzed the correlation of the strategic collaboration approach in education. Data gained through the questionnaire for quantitative data and in-depth interview with the key informants for qualitative data. The school collaboration networks, school strategic leadership, teacher strategic alliances capacity, school culture innovation, and school committee collaboration. Besides, the education service innovation as the core objective of the element education strategic collaboration has determined by two factors consist of school collaborative strategic planning and strategic collaboration development in education. Research samples were teachers, school leaders, and school supervisors and also the personnel of the education agency of Banggai Regency, Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. The research samples selected by using a stratified random sampling technique. There were 521 selected respondents and 15 key informants. The questionnaires for quantitative model are scaled on a 6 point-Likert scale ranged from strongly agree to strongly disagree. The strategic collaboration development model viewed as a better approach to achieve education quality improvement, creating a service innovation, and quality control in education.
Shaping socio-critical thinking of junior students using problem-based learning and inquiry strategy
Authors: Muvid Muhamad Basyrul , Septiawan Yudi , Lubis Maulana Arafat , Zainiyati Husniyatus Salamah
Published: July 2022

This research examined a pattern of integration between problem-based learning (PBL) strategy with inquiry in shaping the critical thinking framework and psychosocial of youth-level students. This study used a qualitative descriptive approach with a literature study method. The data sources were derived from documentation, books, and various related articles. Its analytical techniques used deductions, induction, interpretation, and comparison and analysis of multilayered texts. The results of this research showed that the PBL and inquiry strategies had substantial collation and synergy in the process of forming a framework of critical thinking and psychosocial of youth-level students. It was based on the process of implementing both strategies that emphasized the search for solutions to the problems encountered by conducting investigations, hypotheses, testing, data mining supported by teamwork, collaboration, communication, discussion, and coordination. Thus, the use of the PBL strategy and inquiry integratively is highly recommended in the learning process.
Reflections on higher education institutions responses intra-period COVID-19: A road towards a new normal in Arab universities
Authors: Abusamra Asmaa , Suyanto Suyanto , Wibawa Sutrisna
Published: July 2022

While the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact, the new normal era becomes the latest universal issue to be discussed. Hence, most Arab countries are still categorized as developing countries, this stipulates the need to provide deep discussion on the typology of the types of responses currently undertaken by their higher education institutions. This can assess their agility in preparing for the intra-pandemic period and the unprecedented future disruption. This paper aims to give reflections on the adopted practices in Arab higher education institutions in response to COVID-19 disruption. It also aims to utilize the success indicators and challenges encountering these universities in a way to propose recommendations to shape the new normal era forward. In this study, a desktop analysis, leveraging six Arab universities websites and governments’ sources, was conducted wherein systematic literature, policy documents, as well as related procedures targeting COVID-19 and higher education were reviewed. The results indicate that, throughout the uncertainties of COVID-19, Arab higher education institutions continuously strive to deliver high quality of teaching and learning through employing consistent high-tech procedures entitling government legislations, education management, curriculum, scientific research and stakeholders’ collaboration.
Enhancing creative reasoning through mathematical task: The quest for an ideal design
Authors: Kusaeri Kusaeri , Lailiyah Siti , Arrifadah Yuni , Asmiyah Siti
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to: i) identify the types of completion and ways of completing mathematical tasks carried out by students based on the type of their educational institution (junior high school/SMP and junior Islamic high school/MTs); and ii) explore the tendency of the type of reasoning students use in completing the tasks. This study involved 93 students at grade 8 of prominent SMP and MTs in Sidoarjo Regency, East Java, Indonesia. Variety of ways and solutions to mathematical tasks and the tendency to type students' reasoning were explored through creative reasoning tests. Interview techniques by telephone were implemented to further explore the types of student reasoning: local creative reasoning (LCR) or global creative reasoning (GCR). The results showed that in comparison to MTs students, SMP students have more varied answers and ways to solve mathematical tasks. However, in certain cases MTs students show some unique answers. The type of creative reasoning that students tend to use is of the LCR. These findings indicate the importance for mathematics teachers to design mathematics tasks that develop GCR-type creative reasoning. Examples and exercises in mathematics textbooks should also be directed at developing this type of creative reasoning.
The management of life skills program for students with disabilities
Authors: Wijaya Widia Murni , Syarifah Liah Siti
Published: July 2022

This study aimed to explore the management of the life skills program organized by special high schools at the senior level. The case study approach was carried out by employing observations, interviews, and documentation techniques. The participants involved principal, teachers, graduates, parents, local government, and company. These participants involved themselves in efforts to support actively and their commitment to the success of the management of life skills program. The results indicated that the life skills program was well managed as it successfully delivered graduates to work in the company and be financially independent. The commitment of the school with the company and parents to enhance the independence of graduates with disabilities was through the life skills program to provide them with some valuable skills.
The connection between prospective teachers’ procedural and conceptual knowledge with problem-posing skills of fractions
Authors: Afrillia Yesi Martha , Putra Zetra Hainul , Noviana Eddy , Hidayat Riyan , Dahnilsyah Dahnilsyah
Published: July 2022

This study examined the connections between procedural and conceptual knowledge of addition and subtraction of fractions with the problem-posing skills of prospective primary teachers. The applied method was a correlational study with structural equation modeling-partial least square (SEM-PLS) analysis. The sample in this research was 101 third-year students from a primary teacher education study program of a public university in Riau, Indonesia. The results showed that prospective primary teachers have high procedural knowledge and problem-posing skills on addition and subtraction. However, they have poor performance on problems related to conceptual knowledge of addition and subtraction of fractions. Then, the results also revealed a significant connection between procedural and conceptual knowledge with problem-posing skills on addition and subtraction of fractions of prospective primary teachers. Improving prospective primary teachers’ procedural and conceptual knowledge could raise their problem-posing skills on adding and subtracting fractions.
Islamic elementary school quality improvement in capital theory perspective
Authors: Baharudin Baharudin , Suryono Yoyon , Sugito Sugito , Habibi Habibi , Fiteriani Ida
Published: July 2022

Improving the quality of Islamic schools in the midst of advances in industrial technology 4.0 is an obligation in education world. This research aimed to explore comprehensive information in order to describe the trends and Islamic elementary schools’ strategies in making changes through capital theory approach for quality improvement in a new perspective in the globalization era. The capital theories aspects are: intellectual, social, spiritual, and financial as an analytical framework to find out how schools are transformed. Three Islamic elementary schools with type of A, B and C criteria have been involved. A qualitative approach has been used and the findings are described according to Milles and Haberman's clausal network model. Data was collected through interviews, observation and documentation. The research found that the strategy used by each Islamic elementary school in improving quality were different and strongly influenced by the leader in developing and utilizing the capital existence according to the situation. It can be seen that there is a dominance of one capital aspect that is used to facilitate the other. This presentation is based on the perspective of capital theory in the Indonesian context. In the future, it can be used as a basis for conducting further research in carrying out school transformation more broadly.
Improving students’ cognitive process in biology using concept mapping and cooperative mastery learning strategies
Authors: Bizimana Emmanuel , Mutangana Dieudonné , Mwesigye Adrian
Published: July 2022

Students’ performance in biology in Rwanda National Examinations has been reported to be unsatisfactory. This demands teachers to shift to methods that enable students to acquire meaningful learning. In an attempt to cope with this situation, the effects of concept mapping (CM) and cooperative mastery learning (CML) on the cognitive process in biology among lower secondary school students in Nyamagabe district, Rwanda was investigated. A quasi-experimental non-equivalent pre-test, post-test control group design was applied to a sample of 449 senior secondary school two (SS2) students (224 males and 225 females) drawn from seven co-educational secondary schools purposively selected from 46 schools. The students were in CM (n=151), CML (n=144) and conventional teaching method (CTM) (n=154) groups. The biology Achievement Test with a reliability of 0.82 obtained from the Kuder Richardson (KR-21) formula was used to collect data. Analysis of Covariance and Bonferroni test were applied for data analysis. Findings revealed that CM and CML groups scored better in all cognitive domains tested than the CTM group. A statistically significant difference between CM and CML was observed in favor of the CM. Based on the findings, it was concluded that the CM and CML are capable of improving secondary school students’ mastery of the content taught at all levels of cognition. Therefore, learning with CM and CML could be a viable option for teachers for addressing attainment issues in biology.
E-learning on History learning: Aspect of material, teacher, learning environment, and student
Authors: Jamiludin Jamiludin , Darnawati Darnawati
Published: July 2022

This research was conducted to determine the student’s perception of e-learning in studying History in terms of material, teachers, learning environment, the students themselves, and the teacher's perception of e-learning in teaching History. The researchers employed a mixed-method design. Instruments of this research were questionnaire and interview guide. The questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data while interview guide for qualitative data. The questionnaire consists four aspects: material, teacher, learning environments, and students’ view. The subjects were 25 history teachers and 161 students of senior high school in Kendari City, Indonesia. The result found that students prefer to study face-to-face. They prefer that the material is taught directly by the teacher in class. Class conditions are comfortable and they can interact with teachers and friends. Students do not feel bored doing assignments from teachers during a pandemic. They like to summarize history assignments rather than memorizing the material. Most students complain about the conditions of studying from home. Network problems and not having facilities, such as laptops and smartphones are the main problems for online learning. History teachers assume that in implementing e-learning, they prefer asynchronous e-learning. History teachers mostly use e-learning applications, such as Google Classroom, WhatsApp, and YouTube. This study was expected to shed new light on the intriguing concept of students and teacher’s perception of e-learning on history learning.
Transformação de inversão: teoria, exercícios de construção geométrica, problemas olímpicos e aplicações
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Linares Juan López
Published: July 2022

Esta obra didática foi utilizada durante algumas aulas do curso ``Geometria Olímpica com GeoGebra'' para professores de Matemática do Ensino Fundamental e Médio de todo o Brasil. O texto conta com 68 figuras que facilitam acompanhar a resolução. Todas indicam links para os gráficos interativos no site do GeoGebra e, vários, a resolução em vídeo do YouTube. A discussão é organizada em cinco capítulos: Conceitos básicos; Aplicações da inversão; Prova de teoremas utilizando inversão; Exercícios de construção geométrica por inversão; e Problemas resolvidos utilizando inversão. O diferencial na utilização do GeoGebra está baseado na disponibilidade gratuita do software, tanto online como em aplicativos para computadores e celulares. As construções geométricas podem ser criadas de forma dinâmica, em que se exploram diversas configurações de um mesmo problema. O GeoGebra serve tanto como calculadora gráfica e numérica, utilizada para a verificação, como ferramenta para a apresentação, passo a passo, de uma demonstração rigorosa. O GeoGebra também convida o leitor a interagir, a pôr as "mãos na massa".
Targeted Plasma Proteomics to Predict the Development of Carotid Plaques
Authors: Baragetti Andrea , Mattavelli Elisa , Grigore Liliana , Pellegatta Fabio , Magni Paolo , Catapano Alberico Luigi
Published: July 2022

Background:

Cardiovascular risk stratification in primary prevention is a clinical challenge. We recently identified a large set of circulating proteins improving the risk prediction for cardiovascular events. We now evaluate which of these proteins predicts the development of subclinical carotid atherosclerosis (SCA) in primary cardiovascular prevention.

Methods:

Three hundred sixty-eight proteins were quantified, by proximity extension assay, from the plasma collected at basal visit from 586 subjects without previous cardiovascular events and without preclinical atherosclerosis. These subjects were reevaluated 11 years after median follow-up (10–12) in a longitudinal observational analysis, to assess the development of SCA, defined as the formation of focal lesion in any carotid tract and detected by carotid ultrasound at basal visit and after follow-up. Common carotid (intima-media thickness [IMT]) was also measured by ultrasound during the same follow-up to identify subjects with faster common carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) progression (increase IMT)>1.3 mm in the common carotid tract).

Results:

The variation of 68 proteins predicted SCA development and, among them, higher levels of PIgR2 (polymeric immunoglobulin receptor), chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 18, CA1 (carbonic anhydrase 1), Fc gamma receptor IIa and reduced MMP10 (matrix metallopeptidase 10), GT (gastrotropin), IL7R (interleukin 7 receptor) were the most predictive for SCA development. These 7 proteins improved the sensitivity and the specificity for SCA development versus risk factors (age, sex, overweight, hypertension, low HDL-cholesterol, high triglyceride); area under the curve: 0.747 ([0.707–0.784] versus 0.620 [0.577–0.663];
P
<0.001). Vice versa, 25 proteins (not in common with the previous 68) predicted faster common carotid IMT progression. Among them, increased IL7D (interleukin 7), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 1, and reduced TNFS13B (TNF superfamily member 13b) significantly increased the sensitivity and the specificity to predict faster common carotid IMT progression as compared with same risk factors (area under the curve: 0.719 [0.680–0.756] versus 0.569 [0.527–0.610];
P
<0.001).

Conclusions:

A new set of circulating proteins have been identified that may be considered as markers of preclinical atherosclerosis development. The difference of the protein identified to predict SCA versus IMT progression may reflect different etiological factors.
On the Politics of Design Framing Practices
Authors: Prendeville Sharon , Syperek Pandora , Santamaria Laura
Published: July 2022

In this conceptual article, our aim is to deconstruct the conceptualization of design framing and establish its essentially political nature. It demonstrates the positionality inherent within frames insofar as frames articulate subordinated or dominant status, or express normative understandings until challenged. In doing so, we build a conceptualization of the political foundations of design framing practices and their implications for those contexts within which design operates. Consequently, we argue for dissensual counter-framing design practices that unsettle institutionalized norms and ideologies played out within frames, and through which a form of political agency is sociomaterially enacted.
A taxonomic review of the genus Euboeus Boieldieu, 1865 (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae: Helopini) of the Caucasus, Iran and Turkmenistan
Authors: NABOZHENKO MAXIM V.
Published: July 2022

A taxonomic review of the genus Euboeus from the Caucasus, Iran and Turkmenistan is given. All revised species belong to the subgenus Pelorinus Vauloger de Beaupré, 1900 and can be divided into two groups: the tenebricosus species-group and the huedepohli species-group. The first one consists of mainly forest low mountain species, while the second one includes high mountain, alpine or steppe taxa. Only one species, E. сhorasanicus (Medvedev, 1976), has mixed characters and unknown habitats. In total, 11 species of the genus are known from Iran, one species is distributed in Iran and Turkmenistan. Euboeus prometheus is hereby excluded from the fauna of Azerbaijan, the species occurs on Iranian part of Talysh Mts. Euboeus quadricollis (Ménétriés, 1832) is recorded from Iran for the first time. The following new species are described: Euboeus grimmi sp. nov. (Iran, Western Elburs), E. kasatkini sp. nov. (Iran, Central Elburs), E. krivokhatskyi sp. nov. (Iran, Western Elburs and Zagros), E. merkli sp. nov. (Iran, Central Elburs), E. arzanovi sp. nov. (Iran, Central Elburs), E. zubovi sp. nov. (Iran, Zagros, Kordestan Prov.), E. kalashiani sp. nov. (Armenia, Azerbaijan: Nakhchivan, North-Western Iran). The following new synonimies are established: Helops corrugosus Seidlitz, 1895 = Probaticus parthorum G. Medvedev, 1976, syn. nov.; Helops vicinus Allard, 1876 = Probaticus (Pelorinus) medvedevi Abdurakhmanov et Nabozhenko, 2011, syn. nov. The lectotype for Helops corrugosus is designated to fix the taxonomic status of that species. In addition, illustrated identification keys for males and females of Caucasian, Iranian and Turkmen Euboeus are provided.
Early Cretaceous Ostracoda (Crustacea) from south-central Araripe Basin, Brazil, with descriptions of seven new species
Authors: TOMÉ MARIA EMILIA , ARARIPE RILDA , OLIVEIRA DAVID , BARRETO ALCINA , PRADO LUDMILA , PEDROSA FLAVIA , PEREIRA PRISCILLA , NASCIMENTO LUIZ RICARDO , NG CHRISTIANO
Published: July 2022

A systematic study is made of Early Cretaceous (late Aptian/earlyAlbian) ostracod assemblages from the Santo Antônio section. This section is characterized by sediment belonging to the post-rift sedimentary sequence of the Romualdo Formation in the southern-central region of the Araripe Basin, Brazil and represents on of the first marine ingression in the interior of the continent, during the beginning of the formation of the Atlantic Ocean. The Santo Antonio section presents ostracods in greater diversity than previously known. Nineteen samples were analyzed, yielding a total of 8,370 specimens. Fifteen taxa were identified, including six brackish ostracods: Pattersoncypris salitrensis, Pattersoncypris angulata, Pattersoncypris micropapillosa, Damonella grandiensis, Alicenula cf. leguminella and Theriosynoecum cf. quadrinodosum; and nine typically brackish-marine species, including seven new ones: Dicrorygma cf. minuta, Dicrorygma (Orthorygma?) dimorpha, Mongolianella aptianensis sp. nov., Mantelliana speculum sp. nov., Paracypris undulareventralis sp. nov., Microceratina retangularis sp. nov., Perissocytheridea oculusutilis sp. nov., Perissocytheridea poruslinearis sp. nov. and Perissocytheridea florisdorsalis sp. nov. Therefore, the detailed taxonomic study brings a new understanding of marine ostracods around the upper Aptian/lower Albian boundary of the Araripe Basin.
Evaluation of Independent Stochastically Perturbed Parameterization Tendency (iSPPT) Scheme on HWRF-Based Ensemble Tropical Cyclone Intensity Forecasts
Authors: Zhao Xiaohui , Torn Ryan D.
Published: July 2022

Tropical cyclone (TC) intensity has been shown to have limited predictability in numerical weather prediction models; therefore, ensemble forecasting may be critical. An ensemble prediction system (EPS) should ideally cover all sources of uncertainty; however, most meso- and convective-scale EPSs typically consider initial-condition uncertainty alone, with limited treatment of model uncertainty, even though the evolution of mesoscale features is highly dependent on uncertain parameterization schemes. The role of stochastic treatment of model error in the Hurricane Weather Research and Forecasting (HWRF) EPS is evaluated by applying independent stochastically perturbed parameterization (iSPPT) scheme to individual parameterization schemes for four TCs from 2017 to 2018. Experiments with Hurricane Irma (2017) indicate that TC intensity ensemble standard deviation is most sensitive to the amplitude of the stochastic perturbation field, with smaller impact from adjusting the decorrelation time scale and spatial length scale. Results from all four TC cases show that stochastic perturbations to the turbulent mixing scheme can increase the ensemble standard deviation in intensity metrics over a 72-h simulation without introducing significant differences in mean error or bias. By contrast, stochastic perturbations to the microphysics, radiation, and cumulus tendencies have negligible effects on intensity standard deviation.
Transcriptome analysis of the response to low temperature acclimation in Calliptamus italicus eggs
Authors: Liu Qian , Luo Di , Wang Mengjia , Song Xingmin , Ye Xiaofang , Jashenko Roman , Ji Rong
Published: July 2022

Background

Calliptamus italicus is a dominant species in the desert and semi-desert grassland. It is widely distributed throughout many regions such as Asia, Europe, North Africa and the Mediterranean, and has enormous destructive potential for agriculture and animal husbandry. The C. italicus overwintering as eggs in the soil through diapause, and the cold tolerance of locust eggs is the key to their ability to survive the winter smoothly to maintain the population.

Results

Transcriptome analysis of C. italicus eggs was carried out in this paper in constant low temperature acclimation, natural low temperature acclimation and room temperature. The differentially expressed genes related to cold tolerance were screened out, the differences in expression patterns under different low temperature acclimation were analyzed, and the genes in the significantly up-regulated pathways may play an important role in cold tolerance. The results show that different domestication modes can induce C. italicus eggs to express a large number of genes to alleviate low temperature damage, but C. italicus eggs are more sensitive to changes in temperature. Compared with the control, there are 8689 DEGs at constant low temperature and 14,994 DEGs at natural low temperature. KEGG analysis showed that DEGs were mainly enriched in pathways related to metabolism and biological systems under constant low temperature, and were mainly enriched in pathways related to biological systems and environmental information processing under natural low temperature. In addition, RNAi technology was used to further verify the regulation of genes in the significantly enriched up-regulated pathways on C. italicus eggs, and it was confirmed that the hatching rate of C. italicus eggs at low temperature was significantly reduced after interference.

Conclusions

Transcriptome analysis of C. italicus eggs treated at different temperatures provided a theoretical basis for further understanding the adaptation mechanism of C. italicus eggs to low temperature. In addition, four potential RNAi target genes were verified in the eggs of C. italicus for the first time, providing new ideas for effective control of this species.
Pragmatic solutions to enhance self-management skills in solid organ transplant patients: systematic review and thematic analysis
Authors: Abtahi Hamidreza , Safdari Reza , Gholamzadeh Marsa
Published: July 2022

Background

In organ transplantation, all patients must follow a complex treatment regimen for the rest of their lives. Hence, patients play an active role in the continuity of the care process in the form of self-management tasks. Thus, the main objective of our study was to investigate the pragmatic solutions applied by different studies to enhance adherence to self-management behaviors.

Method

A systematic review was conducted in five databases from 2010 to August 2021 using keywords. Eligible studies were all English papers that developed self-management programs to enhance patient care in solid organ transplantation. The interventions were analyzed using thematic analysis to determine the main descriptive areas. The quality of the included articles was evaluated using the research critical appraisal program (CASP) tool.

Results

Of the 691 retrieved articles, 40 met our inclusion criteria. Of these, 32 studies were devoted to the post-transplantation phase. Five main areas were determined (e-health programs for telemonitoring, non-electronic educational programs, non-electronic home-based symptom-monitoring programs, electronic educational plans for self-monitoring, and Telerehabilitation) according to thematic analysis. Most studies (72.5%) declared that developed programs and applied solutions had a statistically significant positive impact on self-management behavior enhancement in transplant patients.

Conclusion

The results showed that an effective solution for improving organ transplantation needs patient collaboration to address psychological, social, and clinical aspects of patient care. Such programs can be applied during candidate selection, waiting list, and after transplantation by putting the patient at the center of care.
Extramedullary relapse of acute myeloid leukemia in brachial plexus after allogeneic stem cell transplantation: a case report
Authors: Shirota Shogo , Katoh Daisuke , Shimomura Yoshimitsu , Imai Yukihiro , Ishikawa Takayuki
Published: July 2022

Background

Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a potentially curative treatment for acute myeloid leukemia. However, extramedullary relapse of acute myeloid leukemia can occur after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, causing treatment failure. Extramedullary relapse rarely involves the peripheral nerves, and it is not influenced by the effect of the graft on leukemia.

Case presentation

We report a case of extramedullary relapse of acute myeloid leukemia in the brachial plexus of a 41-year-old woman treated with allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Complete hematological remission was confirmed by bone marrow examination 1 month after HSCT, and she developed no major complications immediately after HSCT. The immunosuppressant was discontinued 5 months later. However, 2 weeks after immunosuppressant withdrawal, the patient developed left arm pain and paresthesia, with subsequent development of a mass in the left brachial plexus. She was initially diagnosed with brachial plexus neuropathy because of concomitant graft-versus-host disease. Despite the administration of immunosuppressive agents, the mass continued to enlarge. The biopsy of the lesion revealed leukemic relapse. Thus, the patient was diagnosed with extramedullary relapse and underwent radiotherapy, resulting in tumor shrinkage.

Conclusion

Extramedullary relapse should be considered a differential diagnosis in post-transplant patients with leukemia presenting with paresthesia.
Associations between comorbidities and annual incidence plus frequency of asthma exacerbation hospitalisation during the past year: data from CARN study
Authors: Wang Wenqiao , Lin Jiangtao , Zhou Xin , Wang Changzheng , Huang Mao , Cai Shaoxi , Chen Ping , Lin Qichang , Zhou Jianying , Gu Yuhai , Yuan Yadong , Sun Dejun , Yang Xiaohong , Yang Lan , Huo Jianmin , Chen Zhuochang , Jiang Ping , Zhang Jie , Ye Xianwei , Liu Huiguo , Tang Huaping , Liu Rongyu , Liu Chuntao , Zhang Wei , Hu Chengping , Chen Yiqiang , Liu Xiaoju , Dai Luming , Zhou Wei , Huang Yijiang , Xu Jianying
Published: July 2022

Purpose

While asthma comorbidities are associated with higher health care utilisation, lower quality of life and poorer asthma control, the impact of asthma comorbidities on hospitalisation for asthma exacerbation (H-AX) remains less recognised. We aim to analyse the impact of asthma comorbidities on H-AX.

Methods

Based on a national survey on asthma control and disease perception (CARN 2015 study), we analysed the impact of comorbidities on annual incidence and frequency of H-AX in China. Information on demographic characteristics, asthma comorbidities and annual incidence and frequency of H-AX were presented in this study.

Results

Among 3875 ambulatory asthma patients, 75.9% (2941/3875) had comorbidities, and 26.4% (1017/3858) experienced H-AX during past year. After adjusting for confounding factors such as demographic data, smoking status and asthma control, COPD [OR = 2.189, 95% CI (1.673, 2.863)] and coronary heart disease [OR = 1.387, 95% CI (1.032, 1.864)] were associated with higher annual incidence, while allergic rhinitis [OR = 0.692, 95% CI (0.588, 0.815)] was associated with lower annual incidence, of H-AX. In terms of frequency, allergic rhinitis [OR = 1.630, 95% CI (1.214, 2.187)], COPD [OR = 1.472, 95% CI (1.021, 2.122)] and anxiety [OR = 2.609, 95% CI (1.051, 6.477)] showed statistically significant correlation with frequent H-AX.

Conclusions

COPD and coronary heart disease were associated with higher annual incidence, while allergic rhinitis was associated with lower annual incidence of H-AX. Allergic rhinitis, COPD and anxiety were associated with frequent H-AX. Comorbidities may have an important role in the risk and frequency of annual hospitalisations due to asthma exacerbation. The goal of asthma control should rely on a multi-disciplinary treatment protocol.
Disaster response among hospital nurses dispatched to evacuation centers after the Great East Japan Earthquake: a thematic analysis
Authors: Yamamoto Chika , Yamada Chieri , Onoda Katsuko , Takita Morihito , Kotera Yasuhiro , Hasegawa Arifumi , Oikawa Tomoyoshi , Tsubokura Masaharu
Published: July 2022

Background

Disaster relief operations involve a variety of components of healthcare efforts. The post-disaster recovery is a key component of hospital preparedness. This study aimed to investigate the role of hospital nurses in the disaster area and their challenges during the relief efforts after the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten nurses who worked in a general public hospital before the Great East Japan Earthquake and were dispatched to the evacuation centers after the disaster. A qualitative approach with the thematic analysis method was employed. Three research queries (RQs) were prepared before the interview.

Results

The study participants played administrative roles as city employees in addition to performing nursing services as healthcare providers in evacuation centers. The first RQ on their challenges in evacuation centers gave us four themes: criticism by the evacuees, conflicts between multiple roles, difficulties in performing the first experience, and anxiety in working. The second RQ asking about motivation to accomplish disaster relief efforts raised three themes of carrying out the nursing role, acceptance by evacuees, and strengths of human connections. Two themes of awareness of disaster medicine and professional growth were raised from the third RQ of gains from the experiences in the evacuation centers.

Conclusions

The hospital nurses in the disaster area performed multiple roles in the relief efforts in the evacuation centers, which developed a psychological burden on them. A sense of competence supported the motivation to accomplish the disaster relief activities and professional growth as a specialist in disaster medicine. A study limitation is missing hospital nurses who resigned during the relief efforts. Further study is warranted to refine the disaster preparedness of hospital operations.
Pulmonary actinomycosis mimicking lung cancer on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography: a case report
Authors: Miyazaki Shinichi , Fujito Takeo , Kondo Yuki , Kuno Yasumasa , Mori Shunsuke , Yamashita Ryo , Ishida Junzo , Nara Yoshiharu , Ikeda Takuya
Published: July 2022

Background

Pulmonary actinomycosis is a chronic disease characterized by abscess formation, draining sinuses, fistulae, and tissue fibrosis. It can mimic other conditions, particularly malignant and granulomatous diseases, and is perhaps extremely challenging to diagnose.

Case presentation

A 64-year-old Japanese man presented with 6-week history of a painful solid lump in the chest wall. Chest computed tomography scan revealed a mass-like consolidation in the left upper lobe, with rib erosion and direct extension into the anterior chest wall. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography scan showed increased metabolic activity in the mass, which is indicative of primary lung cancer. The bronchoscopy and computed tomography scan-guided transthoracic biopsy results were considered nondiagnostic. Finally, the patient was diagnosed with pulmonary actinomycosis via surgical resection. He completed an 8-week course of antibiotic therapy and experienced no recurrence.

Conclusions

There is no difference in positron emission tomography/computed tomography scan findings between actinomycosis and malignancy. Therefore, pulmonary actinomycosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of cases involving intensive activity on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography scan.