Preliminary Investigation Research Articles

Domestic travel intention post COVID-19 pandemic – what matters the most to millennials?

The COVID-19 pandemic associated with health fear has severely affected Malaysia’s tourism industry. The domestic tourism segment is expected to have a speedier recovery than international tourism due to travel restrictions. Accordingly, the principles of Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) and the government's role were utilised in investigating the Millennial’s domestic travel intention in this study. This study is a preliminary investigation in nature. It involves responses from the first 60 participants of the fieldwork being carried out for the actual research. The gathered data were analysed using the structural equation modelling (SEM) technique with SmartPLS software. The findings showed that Millennial’s Perceived Self Efficacy and (through) Government Intervention have a significant relationship with their domestic travel intention post-pandemic. Practical implications were then provided to the stakeholders in reviving Malaysia’s tourism industry.

Dehorning Does Not Alter the Stress Response in Southern White Rhinoceroses (Ceratotherium simum simum) during Transport: A Preliminary Investigation.

Translocation and dehorning are common and important practices for rhinoceros management and conservation. It is not known if dehorning causes a stress response or negatively affects rhinoceroses during transport. Twenty-three subadult wild Southern white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum simum) bulls were immobilized and translocated >280 km for population management reasons. Ten animals were dehorned at capture, and 13 animals were transported without dehorning. For transport, five dehorned and six nondehorned rhinoceroses were sedated with azaperone (62.38±9.54 μg/kg) and five dehorned and seven nondehorned rhinoceroses with midazolam (64.61±9.28 μg/kg). Blood samples were collected at capture, start of transport, and after 6 h of transport. Measurements included 10 physiologic variables: hematocrit, total serum protein, creatine kinase (CK), aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), creatinine, urea, cholesterol, β-hydroxybutyrate, and glucose; and four stress response variables: cortisol, epinephrine, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and leukocyte coping capacity. Using a linear mixed model, CK and GGT were higher in dehorned compared with nondehorned rhinoceroses. There were no significant differences in the other variables between the two groups. The likely cause of these differences is that dehorned animals spent more time in the crate before the start of transport than nondehorned rhinoceroses (3:11±0:54 h vs. 1:12±0:56 h, P<0.001). These results indicate that dehorning does not negatively alter the white rhinoceros' physiologic and stress responses during translocation, supporting its use for antipoaching measures.

Cutaneous targets for topical pain medications in patients with neuropathic pain: individual differential expression of biomarkers supports the need for personalized medicine.

Numerous potential cutaneous targets exist for treating chronic pain with topically applied active pharmaceutical ingredients. This preliminary human skin tissue investigation was undertaken to characterize several key biomarkers in keratinocytes and provide proof-of-principle data to support clinical development of topical compounded formulations for peripheral neuropathic pain syndromes, such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). The study intended to identify objective biomarkers in PHN skin on a patient-by-patient personalized medicine platform. The totality of biopsy biomarker data can provide a tissue basis for directing individualized compounded topical preparations to optimize treatment efficacy. Referencing 5 of the most common actives used in topical pain relief formulations (ketamine, gabapentin, clonidine, baclofen, and lidocaine), and 3 well-established cutaneous mediators (ie, neuropeptides, cannabinoids, and vanilloids), comprehensive immunolabeling was used to quantify receptor biomarkers in skin biopsy samples taken from ipsilateral (pain) and contralateral (nonpain) dermatomes of patients with PHN. Epidermal keratinocyte labeling patterns were significantly different among the cohort for each biomarker, consistent with potential mechanisms of action among keratinocytes. Importantly, the total biomarker panel indicates that the enriched PHN cohort contains distinct subgroups. The heterogeneity of the cohort differences may explain studies that have not shown statistical group benefit from topically administered compounded therapies. Rather, the essential need for individual tissue biomarker evaluations is evident, particularly as a means to direct a more accurately targeted topical personalized medicine approach and generate positive clinical results.

Preliminary Investigation of Gender and Racial Differences in the Presentation of Late Life Hoarding Disorder

Preliminary Investigation of Gender and Racial Differences in the Presentation of Late Life Hoarding Disorder

Non-immersive virtual reality based treatment for children with unilateral cerebral palsy: Preliminary results.

Unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP) represents about 30-40% of overall cerebral palsy diagnoses. Upper limb impairment has a significant negative impact on activities of daily living (ADL), and recent studies have shown that the use of virtual reality (VR) can increase motivation and promote an improvement in ADL. This preliminary study was aimed at exploring the acceptability and usability of a VR rehabilitation treatment, using the VITAMIN Platform, for children with UCP. A secondary goal of the study was to compare the results of usual standardized clinical scales and questionnaires with kinematic results as well as with the quantitative measures acquired by the VITAMIN platform in each exercise of the rehabilitation sessions. Six children with UCP (aged 7-15) were recruited for a preliminary investigation in using a non-immersive VR system. The treatment was composed of 10 weekly sessions of 45 minutes. Each child played five types of exergames, using the impaired upper limb to hit virtual objects projected on a wide screen. Standardized clinical scales, kinematic analysis, and questionnaires were used to extensively assess upper limb function before and at the end of treatment. Five typically-developing children provided a reference for the instrumented kinematic assessment. At the end of the treatment, Melbourne Assessment 2 (MA2) scores increased for all the participants (mean increase in range of movement (ROM) + 19.1%, accuracy + 4.6%, dexterity + 13.1%, fluency + 10.3%). Shoulder flexion-extension ROM also improved (mean increase + 10.5°), and according to the kinematic analysis, shoulder movements became more similar to reference profiles. These results were confirmed by a general improvement in performing ADL, assessed by the ABILHAND-Kids questionnaire. Finally, a general agreement among the different measures and indexes emerged from the acquired data. The results show that VR treatment with the VITAMIN platform could be engaging and functional for rehabilitation of children with UCP. The good agreement among the qualitative and quantitative measures and indexes confirms the potential of such novel treatment. However, due to the limited sample size and small number of sessions, further and larger investigations are required to evaluate the effectiveness and to generalize the results.

Application of polyaniline/zinc oxide nanocomposites for non-enzymatic cholesterol detection: A preliminary investigation on the effect of dopants on the morphology, thermal stability, electrochemical and sensing behavior of the nanocomposites

ABSTRACT Cholesterol is a major cause for cardiovascular diseases; and therefore, timely detection of cholesterol is of paramount importance to prevent such diseases. Herein, a non-enzymatic sensor for the detection of cholesterol has been fabricated using polyaniline (PANI) and its nanocomposites (NCs) with ZnO nanoparticles (NPs). For this purpose, a series of NCs has been synthesized by varying the loading of the ZnO NPs as 2%, 3%, 5% and 8% with respect to the weight percentage of the aniline monomer. In addition, two different doping agents, namely camphor sulfonic acid (CSA) and hydrochloric acid, have been used to prepare PANI and its NCs. Electrochemical studies have revealed that as the amount of ZnO NPs increased, the capacitive behavior of the composite also increased. Similar trend was observed in case of HCl-doped polyaniline NCs. PANI/ZnO 8% NCs for both HCl and CSA dopant indicated good capacitive behavior for sensing cholesterol. The best electrode was further tested for sensitivity, and was found to exhibit a value of 0.38 mA mM−1 cm−2. The limit of detection of the prepared sensor was found to be 0.30 mM concentration in PBS buffer under the linearity range of 0.75 mM to 1.5 mM (adj. R2 = 0.97).

Preliminary investigation on the analysis of the whole components of Pogejiuxin decoction and its formulation pattern based on ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry.

Pogejiuxin decoction (PGJXD) is one of the most important formulas for the treatment of heart failure. However, there is a great lack of research on the material basis of this formula, especially research on its compatibility laws, which restricts its clinical use. Studying the complete ingredients and compatibility rules of PGJXD has great significance for guiding clinical medication. The entire formula, the major single herbs, the drug pairs and the disassembled formula were analyzed by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC/QTOFMS/MS), matching the chemical composition database and global natural product social molecular networking to explain the chemical composition as well as the combination pattern of PGJXD. A total of 1048 chemical constituents were fully analyzed from the major single herbs, the drug pairs and the disassembled formula and 188 chemical constituents, including 13 potential novel compounds, were firstly identified from the whole formula. We found that the chemical compositions were reduced after the single herbs were matched to the other herbs, especially the significant reduction of highly toxic diester alkaloids after compatibility, indicating that the medicines of PGJXD were interdependent and controlled by each other. This study innovatively researches and compares the compositional differences between the entire formula of PGJXD, the single, paired and separated formulas, greatly extending our understanding of the chemical substance basis of these compounds, and preliminarily explores the compatibility laws of PGJXD, providing some theoretical guidance for clinical medication.

The Role of Procedure Duration in the Sustainability Assessment of Contaminated Site Management in Italy

The European Union (EU) has placed a strong focus on soil contamination and remediation in its Thematic Strategy for Soil Protection, emphasizing the critical need for comprehensive soil data at the EU level. To effectively support EU soil management strategies, it is necessary to develop soil-related indicators and standardized datasets across all EU member states. However, the lack of standardized methodologies for estimating the time required for contaminated site remediation is a dilemma in Italy and throughout Europe. This study examines statistical data on the time-consuming nature of the contaminated site remediation process in Italy. In fact, early intervention not only simplifies site remediation but also reduces long-term financial obligations such as monitoring costs and potential legal implications. This study categorized data according to remedial procedures, explored different management phases, and revealed different timescales for completing the procedure. The findings show that processes completed after preliminary investigations are often shorter in time than those completed following conceptual model assessments. In contrast, processes that require corrective measures typically take a longer period of time to complete. Notably, remedial interventions tend to have a shorter duration compared to risk management interventions. Furthermore, procedures that address both soil and groundwater contamination generally require more time compared to those that focus only on soil remediation. This study provides valuable insight into the time-consuming aspects of remediation procedures, recommending potential changes to regulatory frameworks to accelerate site remediation activities.

Salicylaldehyde-Cobalt(II)-Catalyzed C-H Alkoxylation of Indoles with Secondary Alcohols.

A straight and efficient protocol for the synthesis of hindered indole-ethers via C-H alkoxylation of indoles was developed by a cobalt-catalyzed cross-dehydrogenative coupling reaction with secondary alcohols. The selection of the salicylaldehyde-Co(II) catalyst enables the reaction to proceed under conditions without acid or base addition in the presence of limited alcohols. The protocol has broad substrate scope for both indole and secondary alcohols and exhibits good functional tolerance. The synthetic applications are proven by gram-scale reaction and further diversification of the product. Preliminary mechanistic investigations indicate that the activation of C-H bonds is not the rate-determining step of the reaction.

A preliminary investigation of epigenome-wide DNA methylation and temperament during infancy.

This study provides preliminary evidence for an epigenetic architecture of infant temperament. At 12 months of age, blood was collected and assayed for DNA methylation and maternally reported infant temperament was assessed using the Infant Behavior Questionnaire in 67 mother-infant dyads. Epigenome-wide analyses showed that the higher order temperament dimensions Surgency and Negative Affect were associated with DNA methylation. The epigenetic signatures of Surgency and Negative Affect were situated at genes involved in synaptic signaling and plasticity. Although replication is required, these results are consistent with a biologically based model of temperament, create new avenues for hypothesis-driven research into epigenetic pathways that underlie individual differences in temperament, and demonstrate that infant temperament has a widespread epigenetic signature in the methylome.

Landscape of IGH germline genes of Chiroptera and the pattern of Rhinolophus affinis bat IGH CDR3 repertoire.

The emergence and re-emergence of abundant viruses from bats that impact human and animal health have resulted in a resurgence of interest in bat immunology. Characterizing the immune receptor repertoire is critical to understanding how bats coexist with viruses in the absence of disease and developing new therapeutics to target viruses in humans and susceptible livestock. In this study, IGH germline genes of Chiroptera including Rhinolophus ferrumequinum, Phyllostomus discolor, and Pipistrellus pipistrellus were annotated, and we profiled the characteristics of Rhinolophus affinis (RA) IGH CDR3 repertoire. The germline genes of Chiroptera are quite different from those of human, mouse, cow, and dog in evolution, but the three bat species have high homology. The CDR3 repertoire of RA is unique in many aspects including CDR3 subclass, V/J genes access and pairing, CDR3 clones, and somatic high-frequency mutation compared with that of human and mouse, which is an important point in understanding the asymptomatic nature of viral infection in bats. This study unveiled a detailed map of bat IGH germline genes on chromosome level and provided the first immune receptor repertoire of bat, which will stimulate new avenues of research that are directly relevant to human health and disease.IMPORTANCEThe intricate relationship between bats and viruses has been a subject of study since the mid-20th century, with more than 100 viruses identified, including those affecting humans. While preliminary investigations have outlined the innate immune responses of bats, the role of adaptive immunity remains unclear. This study presents a pioneering contribution to bat immunology by unveiling, for the first time, a detailed map of bat IGH germline genes at the chromosome level. This breakthrough not only provides a foundation for B cell receptor research in bats but also contributes to primer design and sequencing of the CDR3 repertoire. Additionally, we offer the first comprehensive immune receptor repertoire of bats, serving as a crucial library for future comparative analyses. In summary, this research significantly advances the understanding of bats' immune responses, providing essential resources for further investigations into viral tolerance and potential zoonotic threats.

A Preliminary Investigation of the Factor Structure of the Greek Language Version of the Integrated Teacher Rating Form (ITRF-GR)

A Preliminary Investigation of the Factor Structure of the Greek Language Version of the Integrated Teacher Rating Form (ITRF-GR)

Correction to: Importance of Copepods in the Diet of Sardina pilchardus and Sardinella aurita : Preliminary Investigation in Bou Ismail Bay (Algerian Basin - SW Mediterranean Sea

Correction to: Importance of Copepods in the Diet of Sardina pilchardus and Sardinella aurita : Preliminary Investigation in Bou Ismail Bay (Algerian Basin - SW Mediterranean Sea

Promoting hope: preliminary investigation into a college-level hope curriculum.

Hope is a malleable, cognitive, motivational skill that supports college student outcomes. We evaluated a college-level curriculum that taught hope skills. Using a voluntary response sampling method, a total of 50 participants were included in the present study with 25 in each the control and intervention group. All students completed surveys on hope at the beginning and end of the semester. The intervention group participated in a 10-week curriculum; students in the control group completed their regular introductory course. The intervention group had a significant increase in hope over the semester. Completing the hope course predicted significantly higher end-of- -semester hope, accounting for the beginning-of- semester hope. Hope can be taught via a classroom setting using a curriculum that requires limited financial and time resources. Improving college student hope has implications for their academic and well-being outcomes.

Preliminary investigation of factors influencing the bubbles detachment of iridium oxide in oxygen evolution reaction

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a well-known gas-involved reaction in which oxygen bubbles are formed and adhered on anode surface to lead to a sharp decline of performance. Iridium oxide (IrO2) is the catalyst for water oxidation and is often used as a benchmark material. However, the factors affecting the bubbles detachment of IrO2 are still unclear. Herein, we found that: 1. Nafion®, one of the main components of PEM membrane and usually used as electrode binder, can significantly increase the hydrophobicity of the electrode surface and is unfavorable to bubble detachment. 2. IrO2 itself has good hydrophilicity but is not enough for efficient bubble separation, and no obvious linear relationship between bubble detachment performance and the particle size. 3. For improving bubble separation, irregularly rough surfaces should be avoided to prevent cavities trapping effect and multiple unnecessary bubble adhesion sites, both of which play the roles in stabilizing bubbles. In contrast, the uniformity and regularity of electrode surface should be paid more attention, as evidenced by comparing the surface morphology between drop-casting and pyrolysis in IrO2 and RuO2.

(099) A Preliminary Investigation on the Incidence of Complications and Patient Contentment Following the Surgical Implantation of Inflatable Penile Prosthesis After Salvage Radical Prostatectomy

Abstract Introduction Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common complication post salvage radical prostatectomy (RP). Yet, there is scant data in the literature on complication rates and patient satisfaction in those that undergo inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) insertion post salvage radical prostatectomy (RP) following targeted radiotherapy for treatment of localized prostate cancer. It is understood that these patients have a higher rate of complications as they have experienced both radiation and prostatectomy adverse events which could alter their overall satisfaction after prosthetic surgeries. Objective Our aim is to conduct a preliminary analysis of IPP complication rates and satisfaction rates in patients that had 3-piece IPP implantation following salvage radical prostatectomy. Methods A retrospective chart review from our institutional database was done from 2018 to 2021. The inclusion criteria were patients that had an inserted 3-piece IPP and a history of salvage RP following radiation therapy. Only patients that participated Erectile Dysfunction Inventory of Treatment Satisfaction (EDITS) questionnaire at least 6 months from implant date were included. Data on satisfaction, IPP infection rates, mechanical failure rates, and overall complications was also collected. Complications include hematoma, erosion, reservoir hernia. Results A total of 22 patients were included in the study. The median age (IQR) is 65 (64–67) years and the median time (IQR) from RP to IPP insertion is 23 (11–49) months. All patients were approached in a penoscrotal manner with submuscular placement of reservoir (Table 1). The satisfaction rate was high at 91.8% on follow up. Overall complications rate was observed in 2 patients. One patient had a mechanical pump failure at 37.9 months while another patient had signs and symptoms of scrotal wall infection at 15 months. Both devices were easily replaced with no post op complication and remained functional on further follow up. Conclusions In patients that underwent salvage prostatectomy IPP insertion, they reported high satisfaction rates and low complication rates despite the exposure to both prostate cancer treatments adverse events. Further research is needed to confirm the results obtained and to investigate the underlying causes for the observed outcomes. The scientific process is iterative, and the answers obtained from one study often lead to more questions and the need for additional investigations. Disclosure No.

Preliminary Investigation Into the Effectiveness of Group webSTAIR for Trauma-exposed Veterans in Primary Care.

A substantial number of trauma-exposed veterans seen in primary care report significant symptoms of PTSD and depression. While primary care mental health integration (PCMHI) providers have been successful in delivering brief mental health treatments in primary care, few studies have evaluated interventions that combine mobile health resources with PCMHI groups. This pilot study assessed the potential benefits of webSTAIR, a 10-module transdiagnostic treatment for trauma-exposed individuals, supported by 5 biweekly group sessions delivered via telehealth. The transdiagnostic and mobile health nature of the treatment, as well as the therapist and peer support provided through group sessions, may offer an innovative approach to increasing access to patient-centered and trauma-informed treatment in primary care settings. Thirty-nine male and female veterans with trauma-related symptoms (i.e., PTSD and/or depression) participated in group webSTAIR. Mixed effects analyses were conducted to assess changes in PTSD and depression at pre-, mid-, and post-treatment. Baseline symptom severity was assessed as a predictor of module completion and group attendance. The project was part of a VHA quality improvement project, and IRB approval was waived by the affiliated university. Analyses revealed significant pre-to-post improvement in both PTSD and depression outcomes with a large effect size for PTSD (Hedges' gav = 0.88) and medium to large for depression (Hedges' gav = 0.73). Of participants who completed the baseline assessment, 90% began webSTAIR; of those, 71% completed the program. Baseline symptoms of PTSD and depression did not predict group attendance or module completion. Good outcomes and a satisfactory retention rate suggest that group webSTAIR may provide easily accessible, high-quality, and effective treatment for patients presenting with trauma-related problems without increasing therapist or system burdens. The results suggest the value of conducting a randomized controlled trial to test the effectiveness of group webSTAIR relative to PCMHI usual care or other evidence-based, disorder-specific (e.g., PTSD) treatments for trauma-exposed individuals in PCMHI.

Genome-Wide Exploration of the Ethylene-Responsive Element-Binding Factor Gene Family in Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium L.): Preliminarily Unveiling Insights into Normal Development and Fruit Cracking

The ERF subfamily, a significant part of the APETALA2/ethylene-responsive element-binding factor (AP2/ERF) transcription family, plays a crucial role in plant growth, development, and stress responses. Despite its importance, research on this gene family in sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) is limited. This study identified and analyzed the sweet cherry ERF subfamily in terms of classification, physicochemical properties, structural characteristics, chromosome distribution, gene replication and collinearity, Cis-acting elements, and potential protein interactions. Preliminary investigations of transcription during fruit cracking and normal development were also conducted. Fifty ERFs (PatiERF1~50) were identified, distributed unevenly across eight chromosomes and classified into ten groups with nineteen conserved motifs. Collinearity analysis with other plant species revealed homology, with the highest number of ERF orthologous genes found in apple (Malus domestica L.). Cis-acting elements, particularly abscisic acid response factor, were abundant in PatiERF promoters. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) analysis indicated the involvement of PatiERFs in sweet cherry fruit development and cracking, and nine and four significant candidates related to these processes were speculated, respectively. Furthermore, four other classes of transcription factors (TFs), namely MYB, GRAS, BHLH, and BZIP, as well as 23 structure genes, were predicted to have co-expression and interaction relationships with PatiERFs during fruit development. This suggests their potential synergistic regulation with ERFs in the cherry fruit development process. Our study represents the first comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the ERF subfamily in sweet cherry, laying a crucial foundation for a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms correlated with fruit growth, development, and cracking mediated by ERF genes.

Supplemental vibrissal extensions as an alternative to improve the tactile sensitivity of blind dogs - a preliminary approach investigation.

This preliminary study suggests a way to artificially extend vibrissae of blind dogs to assist ambulation and avoiding facial contact with obstacles. Fourteen irreversibly blind dogs had 5-6 mystacial vibrissae on each side of the face supplementally extended by attaching carefully chosen adult pig hairs to them and were subjected to a maze test before and after the procedure. In three of these dogs the test was repeated one more time after all the extensions had fallen off. Collision counts and course times with and without extensions were analyzed and compared. A p-value > 0.05 was considered significant. Median number of collisions was significantly higher post-extensions (5 IQR 2.25) and after extensions had fallen off (4 IQR 7.50) compared to pre-extensions (1 IQR 1), p = 0.021. Median times were significantly higher pre-extension (25.6 IQR 8.98) and after the extensions had fallen off, compared to the post-extension performance (22.8 IQR 8.55), p = 0.04. Vibrissae play an important role in the tactile perception of blind dogs, and our preliminary results suggest that extending this sensory organ possibly improves obstacle location and their quality of life.

The principle of adversariality in the criminal procedure of the USSR

The paper is devoted to the study of the development of the adversarial principle in the criminal procedure of the Ukrainian SSR. In its development, the adversarial principle went through two stages. The first stage is characterized by the abolition of the main elements of adversariality introduced into criminal procedure by the judicial reform of Alexander II. The adversarial principle itself was criticized as bourgeois and alien to Soviet legal proceedings. After the adoption of the first Soviet criminal procedure acts, the criminal process, at least at the stage of trial, began to include adversarial elements. As for the preliminary investigation and inquiry, there were significant deviations from the requirements of the law, and in some cases the legislation itself created preconditions for actual arbitrariness and repression, and made it impossible for citizens of the Ukrainian SSR to defend their rights and interests or prove their innocence. In general, the process was in fact similar to an inquisition. Starting in the 1960s, criminal procedure legislation underwent significant changes in the direction of expanding individual rights and democratizing the process, which marked the beginning of the second stage. The adversarial nature of the procedure was no longer merely declarative, but became part of the mechanism for ensuring fairness during the trial. It began to act as a tool aimed at balancing the interests of the state and the interests of the persons involved in the process. The main goal of adversarialism was to ensure the impartial and independent administration of justice. In the context of criminal proceedings, adversarialism allowed the parties to defend their interests and present evidence before a neutral court, which undoubtedly contributed to the gradual establishment of the right to a fair trial in the country. At the same time, the adoption of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Ukrainian SSR in 1960 did not lead to the division of functions in criminal proceedings and did not introduce sufficient guarantees to ensure that the accused and suspects enjoy the full range of rights to defense against accusation and suspicion. The priority was not the competition between the parties, but the achievement of the objectives of socialist justice and the activities of state bodies (preliminary investigation, prosecution and court).