bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parameter Optimization for Enhanced Biodiesel Yield from Linum usitatissimum Oil Through Solar Energy Assistance
Authors: Budhraja Neeraj
Published: August 2022

Biodiesel is a biofuel produced from vegetable oils and animal fats. The study describes the solar-assisted biodiesel production from linseed oil and the parameter optimization using Taguchi’s L27 orthogonal approach and response surface methodology (RSM). A solar paraboloid dish of collector area 6.1 m2 and concentration ratio approx. 200 is used for the transesterification process. The yearly and daily solar radiation data shows that May-June has longer solar radiation availability during the daytime; and are favorable months for experimentation. The results show that Taguchi’s approach gives a maximum biodiesel yield of 89.14%, while the RSM model offers a slightly higher 91.9% yield. However, the RSM analysis predicted 91.1% (maximum biodiesel yield) at molar ratio (MR) 8.92:1, reaction time (RT) 108.97 minutes, and catalyst concentration (CC) 0.61 wt.%, respectively. The ANOVA analysis found that the MR has the highest percentage contribution of 75.67%, followed by CC (15.9%) and RT (5.69%). The biodiesel composition is determined using gas chromatography, and the various other fuel properties are measured as per ASTM testing methods. The study successfully confirms the solar heating usage for the transesterification process.
Variational Inference for Bayesian Bridge Regression
Authors: Zanini Carlos Tadeu Pagani , Migon Helio dos Santos , Dias Ronaldo
Published: August 2022

The bridge approach for regularization of coefficients in regression models uses ℓα norm, with α ∈ (0, +∞), to define a penalization on large values of the regression coefficients. Particular cases include the lasso and ridge penalizations. In Bayesian models, the penalization is enforced by a prior distribution on the coefficients. Although MCMC approaches are available for Bayesian bridge regression, they can be very slow for large datasets, specially in high dimensions. This paper develops an implementation of Automatic Differentiation Variational Inference for Bayesian inference on semi-parametric regression models with bridge penalization. The non-parametric effects of covariates are modelled by B-splines. The proposed inference procedure allows the use of small batches of data at each iteration (due to stochastic gradient based updates), therefore drastically reducing computational time in comparison with MCMC. Full Bayesian inference is preserved so joint uncertainty estimates for all model parameters are available. A simulation study shows the main properties of the proposed method and an application to a large real dataset is presented.
Relative-Performance Delegation destabilizes Upstream Collusion
Authors: Lee Jen-Yao , Wang Leonard F. S. , Sun Ji
Published: August 2022

This paper analyzes upstream firms’ collusive sustainability when downstream firms adopt the relative-performance delegation in an infinitely repeated Cournot or Bertrand game. We find that relative-performance delegation makes managers acting more aggressive and that leads to more difficult for upstream collusion to be sustained comparing with sales-revenue delegation regardless of the competition modes. The driving force behind our result is that downstream relative-performance delegation decreases input price, while it makes more profit for deviated firm.JEL classification: D21; D43; L13; L21
Bermudagrass Establishment, Aesthetics, and Function in Response to the Microbial Inoculant Klebsiella variicola and Fertilizer Timing
Authors: Bolton Connor , Cabrera Miguel , Habteselassie Mussie , Poston Daniel , Henry Gerald
Published: August 2022

The incorporation of biostimulants, including microbial inoculants, into turfgrass management programs has increased during the past decade as a result of the potential benefits of their use, including increased nutrient uptake, enhanced growth, and improved stress tolerance. However, minimal research has been conducted on warm-season grasses, and questions still exist regarding microbial inoculant application timing, frequency of inoculation, and need for supplemental nitrogen. Therefore, the objective of our research was to investigate the influence of nitrogen fertilizer and microbial inoculant application timings on the establishment of common bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] in the field and in a controlled environment. Treatments containing fertilizer had a consistently greater normalized difference vegetation index, turfgrass color, and turfgrass quality than treatments that contained only the Klebsiella variicola microbial inoculant (KV). Establishment of bermudagrass plots in response to treatments containing fertilizer had more than 90% cover at the conclusion of the study (8 weeks after seeding), whereas KV treatments and the untreated check never exceeded 70% cover. However, the greatest change in carbon efflux was often observed in the field in response to treatments that supplied KV 3 weeks after seeding. In the greenhouse, the greatest root and shoot weights were typically observed in response to treatments containing fertilizer, whereas KV-alone treatments resulted in root and shoot weights either similar to or less than the untreated check.
A research paper on the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory activities of olive tree (Olea europaea L.) leaf
Authors: BEYAZ Seda , GÖK Özlem , ASLAN Abdullah
Published: August 2022

Olive tree (Olea europaea L.) leaf is known to have a number of bioactive properties being antioxidant, antihypertensive, antiatherogenic, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral and antimicrobial. In this study, the immunomodulatory roles of Olive tree (Olea europaea L.) leaf against oxidative damage caused by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in Saccharomyces cerevisiae were investigated. In the study, four groups were formed; namely, (i) Control Group: Yeast only planted group; (ii) CCl4 Group: Group given CCl4 (15 mM); (iii) Olive Tree Leaf Group: The group given olive tree leaf (10%); and (iv) Olive Tree Leaf + CCl4 Group: Olive tree leaf (10%) + CCl4 (15 mM) given group. Cultures of Saccharomyces cerevisiae were grown at 30 °C for 1, 3, 5, and 24 hours. Malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione levels (GSH), cell growth and catalase (CAT) activity measurements were determined by spectrophotometer. Total protein concentrations were determined by SDS-PAGE electrophoresis and the Bradford protein method. According to the results obtained; compared to the CCl4 group, cell growth (1, 3, 5 and 24 hours), total protein synthesis, and GSH and CAT activities (24 hours) increased in olive tree leaf groups, while MDA level (24 hours) decreased. Thanks to its strong bioactive properties, olive tree leaf has been found to increase cell growth and total protein synthesis by decreasing CCl4 induced oxidative stress in Saccharomyces cerevisiae culture. It has been concluded that if the olive tree leaf is used regularly, it will be beneficial in eliminating many health problems.
Gold Standard in selection of rainfall forecasting models for soybean crops region
Authors: Oliveira Marcio Paulo de , Opazo Miguel Angel Uribe- , Galea Manuel , Johann Jerry Adriani
Published: August 2022

Rainfall data forecasting is essential in agricultural sciences due to impacts caused by water excess or deficit on crop growth. Our study aimed to develop a method to select rainfall forecast models using references with negligible error denoted as the gold standard. To this end, we used forecasting models from national centers such as Canadian Meteorological Center (CMC), European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), National Center for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), and Center for Weather Forecasting and Climate Studies (CPTEC). The study area comprised the western mesoregion of Paraná State (Brazil), and data were gathered from October to March between the soybean crop seasons of 2010/2011 and 2015/2016. Ten-day period clusters, corresponding to 240 h forecasts in the centers, were used to assess agreement with the gold standard. Our results showed that forecasting center selection must be based on rainfall value ranges and geographic locations. Selection according to the highest agreement with the gold standard was estimated at 76.9% for range 1 in CPTEC, 38.5% for range 2 and 4 in ECMWF, and 38.5% for range 3 in NCEP. In conclusion, the proposed method was efficient in selecting forecasting centers in areas of interest
The drivers of volume volatility: A big data analysis based on economic uncertainty measures for the Greek banking system
Authors: Theodorakopoulos Leonidas , Antonopoulou Hera , Mamalougou Vicky , C. Giotopoulos Konstantinos
Published: August 2022

In this paper, an investigation is conducted to estimate the effect of economic uncertainty on volume volatility, focusing on four systemic Greek banking institutions, including (i) Alpha Bank, (ii) Eurobank, (iii) National Bank of Greece, and (iv) Piraeus Bank. The purpose of this study is to explain in detail if the EPU is linked with volume volatility in the largest banking institutions in Greece. For the analysis of this paper, data used are monthly data of volume to explain the economic uncertainty on volume volatility. The analysis period covers the period from January 2001 to August 2018, incorporating various market phases, such as the global financial crisis of 2008, the European debt crisis, and capital controls in the Greek economy. The methodology used for the research is the well-known GARCH model. Based on the estimated regressions, the present research findings showed that economic uncertainty has various effects on the volume volatility of the four systemic Greek banking institutions. More specifically, when economic uncertainty receives a high value, then the volatility of the volume in Greek banking institutions increases, receiving a higher value. In conclusion, it is observed that economic uncertainty positively affects the volume volatility of the Greek banking system.
Analysis of Abnormal Returns Before and After the Announcement of the Merger of State-Owned Sharia Banks
Authors: Putri Indah Amalia , Mubarok Ferry Khusnul Mubarok , Wahyudi Rofiul
Published: August 2022

AbstractPurpose - This study aims to examine the capital market's reaction to the merger of BUMN Syariah Banks, which is seen as abnormal returns at PT Bank BRI Syariah Tbk.Method - The data for this study were taken ten days before and ten days after announcing the BUMN Sharia Bank merger. The data was processed by paired sample t-test using SPSS.Result - Based on the analysis and discussion results, it shows that there is no market reaction to the announcement of the signing of the BUMN Islamic bank merger on BRIS shares as seen from the abnormal returns before and after the signing of the merger, which there is no significant difference.Implication - This can happen because the world is currently facing the COVID-19 pandemic, which causes market uncertainty. In addition, abnormal returns are not the only indicator to measure the wealth created by an event. Another factor that causes no significant difference in abnormal returns is that the data used in the event window research is daily and short enough to have no visible reaction. Furthermore, the issue of a merger has also been circulating before the announcement of the signingOriginality- This article examines abnormal returns before and after the announcement of the merger of State-Owned Sharia Banks
The Influence of Communication Skill, Giving Incentives, Career Opportunities, Commitment and Organizational Culture on Employee Performance KSPPS Koperasi Pemuda Buana (KOPENA) Pekalongan
Authors: Sukardi Sukardi , Aminah Siti
Published: August 2022

AbstractPurpose - The purpose of this research to determine the Effect of Communication Skills, Incentives, Career Opportunities, Commitment and Organizational Culture on Employee Performance KSPPS Pemuda Buana Cooperative (KOPENA) Pekalongan.Method - The population in this study were 50 employees of the KSPPS Pemuda Buana Cooperative (KOPENA) Pekalongan. The sampling method that will be used in this study is the census sampling method of 50 respondents. Data analysis used multiple linear regression analysis.Result - The results of this study concluded that there is a positive and significant effect of communication skills. There is a positive and significant effect of providing incentives. There is a positive and significant influence of career opportunities. There is a positive and significant effect of commitment. There is a positive and significant influence of organizational culture.Implication - The implication is that communication skills, incentives, career opportunities, commitment and organizational culture will affect employee performance.Originality - This study analyzes Communication Skills, Incentives, Career Opportunities, Commitment and Organizational Culture will affect Employee Performance.
Exploration of cassava plant xylem for water treatment: preparation, characterization and filtration capability
Authors: Hashim Aliah , Hashim N. Awanis , Mohd Junaidi Mohd Usman , Kamarudin Diyana , Hussain Mohd Azlan
Published: August 2022

Flood is among the natural disasters that commonly happened in Malaysia every year. During the flood, victims faced clean water shortages and deterioration of the environment resulting in long waiting times for aid to access. Hence, affordable and efficient filters are needed to supply clean water in the affected areas. Application of xylem tissue inside plant stem has the potential as a filter for water filtration. This research focuses on xylem tissue in Malaysian tropical plants from cassava stem. Cassava stems were prepared in a small-scale set-up as the xylem was used as a filter. Effects of cross-sectional area and hydrostatic pressure were analyzed and the results showed a directly proportional relationship with permeate flow rate. Upon filtration with red dye solution, total dye removal was achieved using a xylem with a minimal length of 3 cm and onwards. While for bacteria removal, E. coli bacteria have been removed when tested with a bacteria count plate. Thus, this study demonstrated the potential of the xylem tissue of the cassava plant as affordable and available natural raw materials to be used as water filters during an emergency.
A relação entre agricultura familiar e atividades de base mineral: um estudo sobre o Rio Grande do Norte e sua microrregião Seridó Oriental
Authors: Lima dos Santos Ana Alice , Franco de Souza Raquel , De Oliveira Robson Rafael
Published: August 2022

Em áreas geologicamente favoráveis, a mineração é uma ocupação alternativa para os agricultores. Dessa forma, buscou-se nesse trabalho analisar a relação existente entre a mineração e a agricultura familiar no Rio Grande do Norte e em sua microrregião do Seridó Oriental, através dos dados geológicos e do Censo Agropecuário 2006. Como procedimentos metodológicos foram utilizados a pesquisa bibliográfica, documental e a produção de mapas a partir do banco de dados do IBGE (receitas provenientes da exploração mineral – Censo Agropecuário 2006) e da CPRM (recursos minerais do Rio Grande do Norte) para assim ser possível estabelecer uma relação entre as duas atividades. Concluiu-se que existe uma relação intrínseca entre a mineração e a agricultura familiar no Rio Grande do Norte e, principalmente no Seridó Oriental, onde a quantidade de lavra, principalmente garimpeira, é muito grande, revelando a necessidade de investigação dos indivíduos que exercem essas duas atividades não só no Seridó Oriental, mas também em outras regiões em que se concentram recursos minerais e receitas advindas de exploração mineral.
Using DNS Tunneling to Transfer Malicious Software
Authors:   Pacific National University, Moskvichev Anton , Moskvicheva Ksenia ,   Pacific National University
Published: August 2022

Purpose of the article: to develop a way to increase the level of protection of an information system from an attack using DNS tunneling. Method: using entropy to identify domains and subdomains used when transferring data through a DNS tunnel. The result: a method of data transmission through the DNS protocol bypassing the information security tools is considered. A malicious file was transferred using DNS tunneling, and an analysis was made of the operation of information protection tools during transmission. Information security tools do not detect the transfer of a malicious file via the DNS protocol, but they do if it is transferred in clear text. The concept of information entropy, its role in data processing is given. By calculating the entropy for domain names, the domain used in the transmission of a malicious file through the DNS tunnel was identified. It is concluded that entropy can be used not only to detect data transfer through the DNS tunnel, but also to detect the activity of malicious software that uses random domain and subdomain names in its work. The scientific novelty lies in the fact that malicious activity is detected without using the knowledge base. There is no need to signature check each DNS request, it is enough to calculate the entropy to detect an attack.
Saving People as A Factor of Sustainable Socio-Economic Development of Russian Regions (on the Example of The Central Federal District)
Authors: Gulyaeva T. I. , Takmakova E. V. , Kozyavin M. A. , Savkin V. I.
Published: August 2022

Purpose of the study.To establish the specifics of the situation in the field of saving people in the regions of the Central Federal District, to identify the compliance of the state socio-economic policy with the real state of saving people in the regions of the Russian Federation.

Materials and methods.In the process of preparing the article, the authors used the materials of the Federal State Statistics Service, the Territorial State Statistics Service for the Orel region, the works of individual scientists and public organizations on the problems of saving people. In the course of the work, statistical research methods were used: tabular and graphical methods, analysis of dynamics’ series indexes, the grouping method.

Results.The dynamics of the population in 1990-2021 was studied in the context of the federal districts of the country, including the regions of the Central Federal District, depending on individual factors (natural, mechanical movement). The study of the population in the regions of the Central Federal District showed that for the period 1990-2021, a decrease in the population was found in all regions of the Central Federal District (except Belgorodskaya, Moscow regions and Moscow). The rural population is decreasing at the fastest pace: mortality rates significantly exceed fertility rates in rural areas, the share of the working-age population is decreasing, and the share of the population older than working age is increasing.

Conclusion.The problem of saving people is urgent and requires the development of an effective system for managing the quality of life of the population and regulating demographic processes in the regions of the Central Federal District: Vladimirskaya, Tverskaya, Orlovskaya, Smolenskaya, Tulskaya, Ivanovskaya; in which the decrease in population is associated with natural factors: the mortality rate significantly exceeds the birth rate. It is advisable to form regional programs to improve the organization of healthcare in the following areas: Vladimirskaya, Kalugskaya, Ivanovskaya, Orlovskaya, Tverskaya, Yaroslavskaya. To manage migration processes, reduce the labor shortage in accordance with the needs of the region’s economy, create jobs and conditions for the development of small and medium-sized businesses, improve the quality of life of the population, develop appropriate programs in the following areas: Vladimirskaya, Orovskayal, Smolenskaya, Tambovskaya, Tverskaya.
Methodological Apparatus of Cognitive Modeling of Socio-Economic System (University)
Authors: Mikryukov A. A. , Mazurov M. E.
Published: August 2022

Purpose of the study.The aim of the study is to improve the methodological apparatus of cognitive modeling of socio-economic systems (SES) and predicting the indicators of their functioning and development, which ensures an increase in the accuracy and reliability of the results obtained. Existing models and methods do not fully provide the necessary accuracy and reliability of models that requires the development of the mathematical apparatus of cognitive modeling in terms of improving the quality of the developed cognitive models.

Materials and methods.To achieve this goal, methods of an integrated approach to solving the problem, decomposing it into interrelated stages, describing the content of each stage in their relationship and presenting a generalized version of the methodology, taking into account the characteristics of the object of study, were used. The developed approach provides creating a more accurate and reliable cognitive model. The effectiveness of the developed methodological apparatus is shown.

Results.A detailed analysis of the existing criteria and approaches to solving the problem of verification of cognitive models was carried out, which showed the absence of a unified methodology and an integrated approach in solving problems of cognitive modeling of SES based on cognitive maps. A set of techniques that implement the stages of cognitive modeling has been developed. The results of a comparative analysis of the developed approach with the existing ones are presented.

Conclusion.A comprehensive solution to the problem of creating a cognitive model for analyzing and predicting the activities of a university is proposed, which includes a set of stages: the stage of creating the problem field of the situation; identification of factors and relationships between them; the stage of making a cognitive map and its verification, as well as the stage of analyzing the system characteristics of the cognitive model, validating the cognitive model. The developed methodological apparatus includes a set of techniques aimed at obtaining an adequate model that provides more accurate and reliable results of modeling the object of study.
LOS TRATADOS INTERNACIONALES FRENTE A LAS LAGUNAS: AUTOEJECUTABILIDAD E INEXCUSABILIDAD RESOLUTIVA
Authors:   Juzgado de Letras y Garantía de Curanilahue, Curanilahue, Chile, Humeres Guajardo Nicolás
Published: August 2022

La presente investigación busca analizar elementos subyacentes en el tratamiento jurisprudencial de los Tratados Internacionales como fuentes formales del derecho y su aplicabilidad en la solución de lagunas del sistema jurídico chileno. En función a tal objetivo, se esboza un concepto de lagunas; se revisan los fundamentos que sustentaron inicialmente la incorporación del Derecho internacional al Derecho interno, y se analizan postulados doctrinarios y jurisprudenciales vinculados a la autoejecutabilidad de este tipo de normas. Finalmente se formulan algunas reflexiones en respuesta a algunas críticas metodológicas formuladas desde un sector de la doctrina del Derecho internacional público a la aplicación jurisdiccional de este tipo de normas.
Identification of Pyroptosis Gene Signature Related Molecular Pattern,
Clinical Implication, and Tumor Immunity in Hepatocellular Carcinoma`
Authors: Li Yao-Ting , Zeng Xue-Zhen
Published: August 2022

Background::

Pyroptosis is a novel form of programmed cell death in cancers, which
regulates tumor cell invasion, proliferation, and metastasis, thereby affecting the prognosis of cancer
patients. However, the role of Pyroptosis-Related Genes (PGs) in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)
remains unclear.

Methods::

Somatic mutation, copy number variation, and expression of 41 PGs were assessed in
HCC and normal liver from the TCGA dataset. The Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator
(LASSO) was used to construct the prognostic model. K-M curves, ROC curves, nomograph,
and univariate and multivariate Cox regression were conducted to evaluate the predictive value of
PGs. Immune infiltration was analyzed by CIBERSOFT and ssGSEA algorithm. The expression of
prognostic PGs was validated by qPCR.

Results::

Significant mutation and copy number variation of PGs were found in HCC. These genes
were involved in an inflammatory response. In addition, 9 out of 41 PGs were differentially expressed
in HCC and found to correlate significantly with patient survival. Then, these signature
genes were selected to build a prognosis model and were utilized to stratify HCC patients into high
and low PGs-score groups. It showed that the high-PGs group had a worse prognosis. Univariate
and multivariate Cox regression verified that PGs-score was an independent risk factor for HCC. By
ROC curves and nomogram, we showed that PGs-score effectively predicted the 1-, 3-, and 5-year
survival of HCC patients and correlated with AFP level and disease stage. Immune infiltration analysis
further showed that tumor immunity correlated with the PGs-score, and the expression of immune
checkpoint molecule was significantly enhanced in the high PGs group. The PGs-score was
also validated in the external validation cohort (ICGC). Finally, the expression of 9 signature genes
was validated in normal liver and HCC cell lines.

Conclusions::

This study elucidated the aberrant regulation of PGs in HCC, and those pyroptosisrelated
genes may be applied as a prognostic factor of HCC.
Biosynthesized Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles CeO2NPs: Recent Progress
and Medical Applications
Authors: Humaira  , Bukhari Sayyad Ali Raza , Shakir Hafiz Abdullah , Khan Muhammad , Saeed Shagufta , Ahmad Irfan , Irfan Muhammad
Published: August 2022

Currently, nanobiotechnology represents a leading research area that primarily focuses
on the safe, eco-friendly synthesis of biocompatible metal oxide nanoparticles. Among these, biosynthesized
cerium oxide nanoparticles have particularly received attention in medical science as
their unique surface chemistry and dual oxidation state make them excellent antioxidants and freeradical
scavengers. Currently, plant extracts are widely explored and employed for the biosynthesis
of CeO2NPs. Other biological sources such as marine oyster shell extract, egg-white, biopolymers,
e.g., chitosan, agarose, alginate, and others, have also been successfully used for the fabrication of
CeO2NPs. This review highlights the recent progress in the biosynthesis of CeO2NPs and the investigation
of their medical use as biocompatible anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant,
antidiabetic, and wound healing agents. Furthermore, prospects associated with the use of biogenic
CeO2NPs in developing novel products in the medical sector are also highlighted.
ABCG1 is Expressed in an LXR-Independent Manner in Patients
with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Wang Hui-Juan , Wang Ji-Hong , Xu Xin-Na , Zhao Xing-Shan , Liu Wei
Published: August 2022

Background:

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus have a high cardiovascular
risk due, in part, to abnormalities of high-density lipoprotein mediated cholesterol efflux.
The ATP-binding cassette A1 and G1 play a pivotal role in the regulation of cholesterol
efflux. However, the regulation of these transporters in type 2 diabetes mellitus remains
obscure.

Objectives:

This study aimed to investigate the expression of ATP-binding cassette A1
and G1 and their regulation by Liver X receptors in monocyte-derived macrophages in
type 2 diabetes mellitus, and to determine whether the alteration of these transporters
might affect cholesterol efflux from macrophages.

Methods:

Blood was collected from type 2 diabetic patients and healthy controls.
Peripheral monocytes were differentiated into macrophages. Quantitative real-time PCR,
western blots, and cholesterol efflux assays were performed. The Liver X receptor and
Liver X receptor element complex in the ATP-binding cassette G1 gene promoter were
detected by electrophoretic mobility supershift assay.

Results:

Macrophage ATP-binding cassette G1 expression and high density lipoproteininduced
cholesterol efflux were significantly reduced in type 2 diabetic patients. However,
the mRNA expression of ATP-binding cassette G1 in type 2 diabetic patients was not
inhibited by Liver X receptor siRNA and the Liver X receptor- Liver X receptor element
complexes remain unchanged similarly.

Conclusion:

The study suggested that the expression of ATP-binding cassette G1 and
high density lipoprotein-induced cholesterol efflux in macrophages were reduced in type 2
diabetes mellitus. Impairment of cholesterol efflux and ATP-binding cassette G1 gene
expression in type 2 diabetes mellitus might be regulated by a Liver X receptorindependent
pathway.
Knockdown of PRKD2 Enhances Chemotherapy Sensitivity in Cervical
Cancer via the TP53/CDKN1A Pathway
Authors: Hu Zheng , Ma Ji , Gong Danni , Feng Ruijing , Wang Xin , Chen Hongwei , Cao Chen , Liu Ting , Zhao Tong , Chen Huang , Tian Rui , Ni Yangyang , Tian Xun
Published: August 2022

Background::

Chemotherapy is the common treatment for cervical cancer, and the occurrence
of drug resistance seriously affects the therapeutic effect of cervical cancer. Our previous study
found that PRKD2 mutations occurred only in cervical cancer patients with chemotherapy resistance.
However, the relationship between PRKD2 and drug resistance of cervical cancer remains unknown.

Objective::

We aim to clarify the relationship between PRKD2 and drug resistance of cervical cancer.

Methods::

Samples of patient tumor tissue were collected before chemotherapy and sequenced by
WES. Chemotherapy clinical response was determined by measuring tumor volume. The expression of
PRKD2, cell viability, and apoptosis were assessed by qRT-PCR, Western blot, CCK8, and flow cytometry
in SiHa and ME180 cells after transfected with siPRKD2. The chemotherapy sensitivity signaling-
related proteins were analyzed by Western blot. The expression levels of PRKD2、TP53, and
CDKN1A in tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry staining.

Results::

The expression of PRKD2 was higher in chemotherapy-resistant cervical cancer patients.
PRKD2 knockdown increased the chemotherapy sensitivity of cervical cancer cells via the
TP53/CDKN1A pathway, which led to G1 arrest and cell apoptosis. Furthermore, downregulation of
PRKD2 enhances chemotherapeutic sensitivity in cervical cancer patients through the TP53/CDKN1A
pathway.

Conclusion::

In summary, PRKD2 may be a promising therapeutic target to improve the efficacy of
chemotherapy.
The Learning Contract and its Impact on Scholarship among Moroccan Nursing Students
Authors: Lamiri Abderrahmane , Lhbibani Amina , Qaisar Rabia , Khoaja Driss , Abidi Omar , Khyati Abderrahim , Bouzoubaa Hind
Published: August 2022

Background:

E-learning refers to the use of new technologies to deliver distance learning programs. This mode of learning is also considered one of the innovative teaching/learning methods best suited to the current conditions, which entail the suspension of face-to-face courses due to the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure continuity of training, overcome learning difficulties and increase student autonomy and motivation. Our study focuses on this teaching model as an example of an apprenticeship contract, often adopted in technical, vocational, work-linked training. The aim of this study is to measure the perception of this learning contract through e-learning and its impact on learning among multi-skilled nursing students in semester four (S4) of the Professional License of the Higher Institute of Nursing and Health Techniques of Casablanca within the framework of the course of nursing care in psychiatry.

Methods:

A group of 58 students participated in a survey conducted by questionnaire, with a response rate of 86.20%.

Results:

The results revealed that the students had a positive perception regarding the use of the learning contract; according to them, the learning contract approach increases autonomy, motivation and the application of the theoretical courses in practice.

Conclusion:

The learning contract offers several advantages as a learning strategy and this has been implemented in different nursing education contexts, which may encourage nursing educators to use this contract more widely in theoretical and also practical teaching.
Usefulness of Implementation Outcome Scales for Digital Mental Health (iOSDMH): Experiences from six randomized controlled trials (Preprint)
Authors: Obikane Erika , Sasaki Natsu , Imamura Kotaro , Nozawa Kyosuke , Vedanthan Rajesh , Cuijpers Pim , Shimazu Taichi , Kamada Masamitsu , Kawakami Norito , Nishi Daisuke
Published: August 2022

UNSTRUCTURED

Objectives: Measuring implementation outcomes for digital mental health interventions is essential for examining the effective delivery of these interventions. The “Implementation Outcome Scale of Digital Mental Health” (iOSDMH) has been validated and used in several trials. This study aimed to compare the iOSDMH for participants in six randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving web-based interventions and to discuss the implications of the iOSDMH for improving the interventions. Additionally, this study examined the associations between iOSDMH scores and program completion rate (adherence).
Methods: Variations in total scores and subscales of the iOSDMH were compared in six RCTs of digital mental health interventions conducted in Japan. The web-based intervention programs were based on cognitive behavioral therapy (2 programs), behavioral activation (1 program), acceptance and commitment (1 program), a combination of mindfulness, behavioral activation, and physical activity (1 program), and government guidelines for suicide prevention (1 program). Participants were full-time employees (2 programs), perinatal women (2 programs), working mothers with children (1 program), and students (1 program). The total score and subscale scores were tested using analysis of variance for between-group differences.
Results: Total score and subscale scores of the iOSDMH among six trials showed a significant group difference, reflecting users’ perceptions of how each program was implemented, including aspects such as acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, overall satisfaction, and harm. Subscale scores showed positive associations with completion rate, especially in terms of acceptability and satisfaction (R-squared = 0.93 and 0.89, respectively).
Conclusions: The iOSDMH may be a useful tool for evaluating participants’ perceptions of features implemented in web-based interventions, which could contribute to improvements and further development of the intervention.
Triggering Weight Management Using Digital Avatars: Prospective Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Jiwa Moyez , Nyanhanda Tafadzwa , Dodson Michael
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

There is evidence that showing motivated people with a less-than-ideal BMI (>25 kg/m2) digital and personalized images of their future selves with reduced body weight will likely trigger them to achieve that new body weight.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to assess whether digital avatars can trigger weight management action and identify some of the measurable factors that distinguish those who may be triggered.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study followed participants for 12 weeks through 5 recorded interviews. Participants were screened for suitability for the study using the Cosmetic Procedure Screening Questionnaire as a measure of body dysmorphia. At interview 1, participants were shown 10 images from a “Food-pics” database and invited to estimate their calorie value. The intervention, the FutureMe app, delivered at interview 2, provided each participant an opportunity to see and take away a soft copy of an avatar of themselves as they might appear in the future depending on their calorie consumption and exercise regimen. Participants completed the readiness for change (S-Weight) survey based on Prochaska Stages of Change Model and the processes of change (P-Weight) survey. Any changes in diet, exercise, or weight were self-reported.

RESULTS

A total of 87 participants were recruited, and 42 participants completed the study (48% of recruited participants). Body dysmorphia was a rare but possible risk to participation. The majority (88.5%) of the participants were female and older than 40 years. The average BMI was 34.1 (SD 4.8). Most people wanted to reduce to a BMI of 30 kg/m2 or lose on average 10.5 kg within 13 weeks (–0.8 kg per week). Most participants stated that they would achieve these results by limiting their calorie intake to 1500 calories per day and taking the equivalent of 1 hour of bicycling per day. At interview 1, more participants were in the preparation stage of behavior change than in subsequent interviews. By interview 5, most of the participants were at the maintenance stage. Participants who overestimated the recommended number of calories were more likely to be in the contemplation stage (P=.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Volunteers who participated in the study were mainly women older than 40 years and beyond the contemplation stage of change for weight management, and those who took weight management action were demonstrated to have a more accurate idea of the calorie content of different foods. Most participants set ambitious targets for weight loss, but few, if any, achieve these goals. However, most people who completed this study were actively taking action to manage their weight.

CLINICALTRIAL

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12619001481167; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=378055&isReview=true
Osteoporosis e-learning for healthcare providers (Preprint)
Authors: Naemi Roya , Sanjari Mahnaz , Aalaa Maryam , Atlasi Rasha , Fahimfar Noushin , Ostovar Afshin , Mehrdad Neda , Nomali Mahin , Larijani Bagher
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND

One of the key strategies in improving osteoporosis management is to educate healthcare providers about the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis.

OBJECTIVE

The aim was to investigate the e-learning courses on osteoporosis around the world in order to develop an online course on osteoporosis management.

METHODS

A comprehensive search strategy was developed to search the Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and ERIC databases and the Google search engine. After collecting data, the content of eligible studies was analyzed and also the figures were illustrated with R-pack 4.1.1 library software for scientometric information.

RESULTS

3 studies and 19 websites were included in this study. The target group of e-learning were health care providers including physicians, nurses and health professionals, pharmacists, general practitioners, researchers, and others in the care team. The educational content provided including bone health, osteoporosis definitions, and pathophysiology, prevention of osteoporosis, diagnosis of osteoporosis, pharmacological treatments, non-pharmacological treatments, treatment follow-up, fractures, postmenopausal considerations, and hands-on work.

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing the knowledge of health care providers, fracture management, and updating the diagnostic and therapeutic information of osteoporosis were among the goals of holding online osteoporosis management courses. Development of training programs to empower treatment staff in the prevention, early diagnosis, treatment, and management of osteoporosis is necessary.
Dilemma and Analysis of Installing Elevators in Old Residential Buildings under the “One-vote Veto System”
Authors: Li YiLong
Published: August 2022

With the gradual entry into the aging society, the installation of elevators in existing residential buildings has gradually become an important “people’s livelihood” issue of social concern. But the transformation process has been slow. This paper believes that the “One-vote Veto System” is an important obstacle to the slow progress. The “One-vote Veto System” violates the legislative spirit of the Property Part of the “Civil Code” and should be considered by balancing the interests of various parties.
Fostering Students’ Critical Thinking Skills in EFL Advanced Classroom
Authors: Sèna HINDEME Ulrich Orlando , Etienne IWIKOTAN Katchédé
Published: August 2022

Today, language educators advocate the teaching of critical thinking skills in colleges and higher institutions because it is said to be one of the fundamental skills that can prepare a potential candidate for the job market in the 21st century. Unfortunately, the development of critical thinking has received little emphasis in Benin educational system. Therefore, this paper presents a study on fostering EFL students’ critical thinking skills in the advanced classroom. Based on a qualitative method, this study aims at exploring EFL teachers’ knowledge of critical thinking and teachers’ view on the importance of developing higher cognitive skills with their advanced learners and to find out how to foster critical thinking in the advanced classroom. To reach this goal, interviews with seven (7) senior lecturers and a focus group of twelve (12) advanced students were used to collect data. The findings reveal that teachers are aware of the concept of critical thinking but in practice, many of them do not teach their students these cognitive skills because to them they are discouraged with the educational system which has regressed in terms of quality teaching. Students are no longer assigned challenging tasks that will enable them to develop their cognitive skills. Besides, many teachers seem to ignore the importance of critical thinking skills for their learners’ career opportunities. However, teachers mentioned group discussion as a strategy for fostering critical thinking in the EFL classroom. Both teachers and students reported that the challenges to meet in order to achieve critical thinking includes students’ poor reading and listening skills, negative attitudes towards learning, class size, content coverage and teachers’ training. Teachers are of the opinion that critical skills should be developed with learner’s right from secondary schools. This will help them to excel in their academic courses.
DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF TEACHER’S CULTURAL IDENTITY SCALE IN EFL CONTEXT: A STRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELING APPROACH
Authors: KHANY REZA , GHASEMI FIAN
Published: August 2022

Due to the importance of culture in each society, several researchers have offered different definitions. Several studies have also been conducted on language, ego, ethnic, national, religious and modern identity. However, no validated model is proposed for Iranian cultural identity in English Foreign Language (EFL) contexts. Therefore, this research constitutes a relatively new area through developing and validating teacher’s cultural identity scale in the EFL context. Drawing on existing literature and various categorization of culture, the researchers used different sources, including Persian literature, social and cultural education, theology and history books to extract different components of culture. One hundred and thirty items were created primarily based on operational deﬁnitions of each component. The items were reviewed by a group of experts. After reviewing the items, the researchers piloted and tested the questionnaire using a sample of 305 EFL teachers. A final model of Iranian cultural identity with fifty-eight items underlying the eleven-factor model was specified in exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The reliability of items with Cronbach’s alpha (a=0.864) for the whole instrument was found to be adequate. Furthermore, the convergent and discriminate validity of the items has been found to be satisfactory.
GENDER ATTITUDE TOWARDS ADOLESCENT’S PREMARITAL SEX IN SENIOR AND JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOLS IN THE NEW JUABEN MUNICIPALITY IN GHANA
Authors: TSOTOVOR LOVEDALE ADZO , DADEY GERTRUDE OTUBEA
Published: August 2022

The objective of the study was to assess adolescent’s attitudes towards premarital sex in Senior and Junior High Schools in the New Juaben Municipality in Ghana. A descriptive survey design was chosen for the study. The population of the study consisted of five thousand, one hundred forty-one (5,141) in-school adolescents in Junior and Senior High Schools in New Juaben Municipality. Convenient and random sampling techniques were used to select the study area, schools and respondents for the study. A convenient sampling technique was used to select the New Juaben Municipality. A random sampling method was used to select 250 respondents (students) from two Junior High Schools and two Senior High Schools in New Juaben Municipality. The main instrument used for data collection was a questionnaire. The data collected were statistically analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). Both and descriptive statistics and the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test were used in the data analysis. Descriptive statistics such as frequency distribution in tabular form in graphical forms, and measures of central tendencies were used to analyse the data.  The study concluded that the positive sexual behaviours of adolescents in Junior and Senior High Schools are evident in their attitude towards premarital sex. Adolescents in Senior High and Junior High Schools in the New Juaben Municipality exhibit a positive attitude towards premarital sex as the majority of them do not see that abstaining from sex would make them sick or look odd in society, neither would it give them problems during intercourse when they finally marry.
TEACHING STRATEGIES TO TEACH HEARING-IMPAIRED STUDENTS AT SPECIAL EDUCATION SCHOOL IN SARAWAK, MALAYSIA
Authors: KARUPPANNAN GUNASEGARAN , SULTAN FAZAL MOHAMED MOHAMED , TAISING RUTIL , YAHYA LAILY BINTI
Published: August 2022

Whatever teaching strategies adopted by the teacher, it has to be the one best suited for a specific target group of students, even if it will be a tall order for hearing-impaired students who have language and communication problems. With different hearing-impaired student abilities, the teacher is very much challenged and must be equipped with skills in order to successfully teach and accommodate the needs of all the students. A qualitative study was done in a special education school in Sarawak, Malaysia. Five teachers participated in the structured interview to answer the three objectives of this study. The objectives are to identify the teaching strategies used to teach hearing-impaired students, to determine the reasons for the choice of teaching strategies used to teach hearing-impaired students and to identify challenges in teaching hearing-impaired students. The study shows that there is lack of communication competence among students and also a lack of teaching competency to teach hearing-impaired students by the teachers. The teachers also expressed their worries about the social, academic, and emotional challenges that the students face.
The Harmony of Woman Body in Galih Reza Suseno Paintings
Authors: YULIANTO NANANG , AFATARA NARSEN , SUDARDI BANI , WARTO
Published: August 2022

Painting as the work of art represents the values that the artist believes in interpreting life based on personal experiences and point of views. This study aims to explore various representations of harmony values in women’s bodies in Galih Reza Suseno paintings. The study was conducted at Bangunharjo, Sewon, Bantul, Indonesia during July-December 2020. This study used a qualitative method with an embedded single case study approach. The results showed Galih painted based on Imago Dei's concept, which is a value in Christian teachings, which means that man was created similar to God. Galih presents women's bodies in paintings based on the view that the world of imagery often deceives modern women. Galih defines women, not as objects but subjects who become themselves and are entitled to their bodies. Visualization of women's bodies in various gestures, expressions, and imagery represents the values of harmony within the spirituality of life.
Understanding Leadership and its Various Dimensions: A Mini-Review
Authors: Juneja Jatinder Kaur
Published: August 2022

An important function of directing, leadership plays an important function in influencing behaviour and guiding it into achievement of organizational goals. Leaders are born and leadership skills can be learnt. Leaders are a key human resource in any organisation. The article covers all necessary ele of life.ments of leadership and its importance in every aspect