bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implications of Free Trade Area For Poverty, Household Welfare And Economic Development In Nigeria
Authors: Abubakar Idris , Abaukaka Thomas onimisi , Momoh Muhammad Kabir O.
Published: September 2021

Purpose of the study: The study aims to investigate the implications of free trade areas for poverty, household welfare and economic development in Nigeria.

Methodology: This study employed a fully modified least squares (FMOLS) regression technique. The income per capita and unemployment out of many macroeconomics indexes were employed in this study to measure welfare and poverty implications of free trade area respectively. To enable the study, determine the policy and decision-making implications of the free trade area on Nigeria economy, historical data were drawn from the central bank statistical bulletin for 27 years.

Main findings: The estimated results revealed that the income per capita (welfare) model demonstrated a fair view of free trade scenarios as indicated by the explanatory variables; export contributions to gross domestic product and foreign direct investment contributed positively to the welfare of the individual. Besides, the study also found foreign direct investment and export contributions to gross domestic product to have a negative relationship with unemployment, which implies a reduction in the unemployment rate in Nigeria.

Research implications: This study documented that households’ welfare will be increased by free trade area, while unemployment will also be reduced by participating in free trade area. Based on study findings, policies makers, academia, researchers, the and government will find the study relevant in making policies that promote foreign direct investment, export contributions to the growth of the economy and gross domestic product such as reduction in tariff, simplifying trade regulations, increasing the availability of credit to exporters, creations of duty drawback, improving cooperation among economic actors and overall structural changes which will have positive implications on the households welfare, poverty and economic development.

The novelty of the study: The relevance for free trade area as one among economic policies to promote the welfare and reduce poverty among nations is gaining momentum globally especially African continent. Given the paucity of studies on this area, the study is undertaken as a framework to determine what the implications of free trade areas will be among the African continent.
Rapid metagenomic workflow using annotated 16S RNA dataset
Authors: Oec Naoya , Bono Hidemasa
Published: September 2021

Thanks to the dramatic progress in DNA sequencing technology, it is now possible to decipher sequences in a mixed state. Therefore, the subsequent data analysis has become important, and the demand for metagenomic analysis is very high. Existing metagenomic data analysis workflows for 16S amplicon sequences have been mainly focused on sequences from short reads sequencers, while researchers cannot apply those workflows for sequences from long read sequencers. A practical metagenome workflow for long read sequencers is therefore really needed. In a domestic version of the BioHackathon called BH21.8 held in Aomori, Japan (23-27 August 2021), we first discussed the reproducible workflow for metagenome analysis. We then designed a rapid metagenomic workflow using annotated 16S RNA dataset (Ref16S) and the practical use case for using the workflow developed. Finally, we discussed how to maintain Ref16S and requested Life Science Database Archive in JST NBDC to archive the dataset. After a stimulus discussion in BH21.8, we could clarify the current issues in the metagenomic data analysis. We also could successfully construct a rapid workflow for those data specially from long reads by using newly constructed Ref16S.
The analysis of the impact of environmental factors on turbine performance, develpoment of the models relating the periods between maintenances with selected maintenance factors
Authors: THIELMANN Magdalena
Published: September 2021

There are currently around 18,000 commissioned Gas Turbines in use worldwide, with almost 7,500 long-term service agreements[1]. At the same time, orders for new units increase year by year, and after a decrease in production in 2020 from 353 to 328 new units, from 2022 onwards, the level is planned to rise to the previous level of growth. Gas turbines operate worldwide and are exposed to variations in environmental conditions, such as changes in humidity, temperature, and salinity, which can significantly affect the efficiency and faster degradation of individual components. Based on the unit's maintenance report, there are more than 1,940 event alerts annually. A need exists to create a more dynamic analytical and numerical model that determines the impact of environmental variables on gas turbine stability. It is necessary to analyze and improve existing reliability models, which vary due to configurations and the impact of working conditions. The first step should be an analysis of the impact of environmental factors on turbine performance. This paper describes how the maintenance and inspection model developed from an average value over time model to a model tracking the actual degradation of gas turbines. It includes a comparison ofthree models used in the research, considering the developed methodology for selecting input parameters, their correlation, and their appropriateness for use in further analyses.
Perceptions of English Language Instructors on the Effectiveness of Learning Advisory Training Programme (LATP)
Authors: Şen Hülya , Şen Mümin
Published: September 2021

Advising in language learning (ALL) can be defined as “the process of helping someone become an effective, aware, and reflective language learner” (Kato & Mynard, 2016, p. 1). In order to promote learner autonomy, a learning advisor conducts an intentionally structured reflective dialogue, the purpose of which is to engage the learner in reflective processes so that the learner can reach a deeper sense of understanding and control of language learning (Carson & Mynard, 2012; Kato & Mynard, 2016). The main role of the learning advisor in this process is to “activate learners’ reflective processes through a one-to-one dialogue” (Kato & Mynard, 2016, p. 104). To encourage active and critical reflection, learning advisors need to be provided with proper training. The purpose of this paper is to explore the perceptions of the experienced English language teachers regarding the effectiveness of the learning advisory training program (LATP) they have attended and its effects on the teachers’ professional and personal lives. To achieve this aim, both quantitative and qualitative data were collected through questionnaires and interview findings. The results suggest that the teachers who attended the LATP developed a deeper awareness of how to promote learner autonomy.
The Digitalization of Self-Access and Advising Services in Times of a Global Pandemic
Authors: Uzun Tarik , Guven-Yalcin Gamze
Published: September 2021

The global pandemic forced educational institutions worldwide to adapt to a new, fully online concept of education and a rapid digitalization to keep providing their services to learners. This paper reports on the digitalization process of the Independent Learning Center (ILC) and the Learning Advisory Program (LAP) unit at Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University (AYBU), Turkey. The interrelated digitalization stories of the two units include the provision of learning resources and activities to learners with digital tools and their responses to the new format. Despite the challenges involved, the ILC has offered a considerably higher number of extracurricular activities than in face-to-face education days and reached a higher number of learners in the 2020-2021 academic year. As for the LAP, the participants’ reflections showed how opportunities for offering engaging activities in the LAP created a cascading impact of affordances for both the individual learners and the members of the larger community.
Practical Ideas on Developing Learner Autonomy for Young Learners
Authors: Üstün Kaya Senem , Keçik, İnci
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study is to present a lesson and sample materials to provide language teachers with opportunities to enhance and maintain learner autonomy for young learners in English language teaching classes. To this end, a traditional short story for children was chosen, and activities were created to help young learners develop a deeper sense of language awareness as well as encourage them to control their own learning. Initially, this practical paper introduces the theoretical background to the study. It then presents the methodology section where a model that promotes learner autonomy is briefly described and, subsequently, the procedure section where the activities involved in the lesson plan are defined along with their relevance to learner autonomy. In the end, following the class observations, several implications and practical suggestions are provided.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, Who is the Most Autonomous of Them All?
Authors: Sınar Okutucu Ebru
Published: September 2021

Learner Autonomy is a key element in the field of education, and the number of academic studies in the field has considerably increased recently. Educators have also attached importance to classroom implementations to raise their learners’ autonomy over time. In this classroom action research study at a university in Turkey, I aimed to present the findings to this question: What is my learners’ level of awareness regarding their own learning and study habits? This article will present the results of this classroom inquiry based on a portfolio task that asked learners to prepare an oral report about their study habits. Data were collected through student notes, my notes on the whiteboard, and observations throughout the task. The thematic analysis method was used to analyze patterns in the data. The results suggest that learners are good at accessing study materials according to their identified needs. Although they have some effective strategies for how to learn, these strategies are outnumbered by source selection strategies in the students’ suggestions list. This article may be useful to those who are interested in promoting learner autonomy through classroom activities.
Through an English Teacher’s Eyes: Self-Directed Learning and Advising in Language Education E-Conference
Authors: Celik Uzun Ezgi
Published: September 2021

In this review, I aim to convey my ideas on the Self-Directed and Advising in Language Education Conference from an English teacher’s point of view. I watched both plenary sessions and some of the concurrent sessions in which I learned a lot. I will briefly mention the topics in the plenary sessions and concurrent sessions, my related ideas, and the implications I drew. I attended the conference as an English teacher seeking solutions for learners’ language learning issues and the specific problems that I personally faced during distance education times. This event encouraged me to reflect more deeply about education during post-COVID times, which, I believe, underlines the importance of self-directed learning and advising in language learning.
Compromiso con los aprendizajes: perspectivas teóricas, antecedentes y reflexiones
Authors: Manavella Agustina María , Paoloni Paola Verónica , Rinaudo María Cristina
Published: September 2021

The paper aims to theoretically review the construct of engagement to learning. The recovered authors conceive of engagement as a multidimensional construct, mainly composed of emotional, cognitive and behavioral dimensions. The review carried out allows us to appreciate that certain personal and contextual aspects are facilitators of engagement. Research on the topic has been carried out mainly in the framework of formal contexts. The paper thus integrates diverse perspectives on the construct, taking into account the particularities of the learning context. The description and analysis presented provides tools for professionals involved in the field of education to offer proposals capable of engaging apprentices with their training goals.
Constructing scientific knowledge thought the primary teacher’s questions in a guided-inquiry lesson of the water cycle
Authors: Aragüés Díaz Ana
Published: September 2021

This paper deals with how scientific contents related to the water cycle are expressed (6th grade) as well as the role that the teacher´s questions play during an inquiry-based lesson. The research questions of the study were: What scientific concepts are constructed by students and teacher? What kind of questions uses the pre-service teacher in order to guide the thought of students? The employed methodology is based on video-analysis, being the data source a 1 hour video recording. Difficulties are perceived when students try to explain the scientific concepts (evaporation and condensation) in the context of the water cycle. The video allowed us to observe the difficulty involved in making knowledge move forward as the session progresses.
ТРАНСФОРМАЦІЯ ІНВЕСТИЦІЙНИХ ПОТОКІВ В УМОВАХ ТУРБУЛЕНТНОСТІ
Authors: Шевченко Ю.А.
Published: September 2021

Статтю присвячено проблемі трансформації інвестиційної діяльності суб’єктів міжнарод- них відносин в умовах пандемії задля підтримки стабільних показників та набуття конкурентних переваг на міжнародному фінансовому ринку. Розкрито основні тенденції і напрями інвестування в сучасних умовах розвитку економічної системи, де сфокусовано наукові інтереси на дослідженні інвестиційних потоків у соціальну сферу з урахуванням медичної. Наведено приклади зміни інвес- тиційних настроїв, показано попередню динаміку інвестиційних потоків, визначено роль інвес- тицій у життєво важливі сектори економіки. Дослідження доводить, що інвестиції сприяють швидкому виходу із турбулентності та покращують умови функціонування економічних суб’єктів. Основною метою залучення інвестицій та їх використання є отримання докризових показників ведення господарської діяльності та іноземного досвіду ведення бізнес-процесів.
ВИКОРИСТАННЯ РЕКОМЕНДАЦІЙНИХ СИСТЕМ ДЛЯ ОПТИМІЗАЦІЇ МАРКЕТИНГОВОЇ СТРАТЕГІЇ КОМПАНІЇ
Authors: Пономаренко І.В. , Битик О.Б.
Published: September 2021

У статті досліджено особливості впливу процесів діджиталізації на поведінку користувачів та переорієнтацію компаній на цифрове середовище. Доведено доцільність використання передових інструментів цифрового маркетингу для налагодження комунікацій із цільовою аудиторією на постійній основі. Встановлено ефективність використання рекомендаційних систем на вебресурсах компаній в процесі підвищення конверсії в довгостроковій перспективі. Розкрито основні переваги за умови використання рекомендаційних систем відповідно до науково обґрунтованих підходів. Наведено приклади використання релевантного контенту у рекомендаційних системах технологічними компаніями у розвинених країнах світу. Розкрито основні джерела інформації, які використовуються в процесі побудови рекомендаційних систем. Наведено класифікацію рекомендаційних систем, що використовуються у сучасних умовах. Представлено специфіку використання методів машинного навчання в процесі оптимізації функціонування рекомендаційних систем.
Analisis Faktor-faktor yang Mempengaruhi Produktivitas Kerja Karyawan di PT. Multi Terminal Indonesia
Authors: Hastuti Retno Ayu , Bodroastuti Tri , Widiastuti Tantri
Published: September 2021

Work productivity is the ability to carry out activities that produce an output or work in accordance with the quality set, but often there are obstacles that cause the company's goals to be less achieved. Every company has a different policy on efficient sourcing. The purpose of this study was to determine and analyze how the effect of knowledge, skills, abilities, attitudes and behavior on work productivity of PT. Multi Terminal Indonesia. The population in this study were 30 employees and the entire population was sampled. The analytical tool used in this research was Multiple Linear Regression Analysis. The results showed that knowledge (X1), skills (X2), abilities (X3), behaviors (X5) had no effect on work productivity. The attitude (X4) had an effect on work productivity. The results of simultaneous hypothesis testing explained that knowledge (X1), skills (X2), abilities (X3), attitudes (X4) and behavior (X5) haved an effect on work productivity. The coefficient of determination of 0.636 means that knowledge, skills, abilities, attitudes and behavior are able to explain work productivity by 63.6%. The remaining 36.4% is explained by other variables not included in this research model.
Study of Cardiovascular Parameters and Heart Rate Variability (Frequency Domain Analysis) in 1St Trimester of Normal Pregnant Women and Pregnant Women with Risk Factors for PIH in Western Rajasthan
Authors: Soniya Vyas  , Raghuveer Choudhary  , Kamla Choudhary  , Islam Khan
Published: September 2021

Background: The role of sympathovagal imbalance (SVI) and CV risk in pregnancy-inducedhypertension (PIH) has been reported, and their association during early trimesters of gestation in PIHhas not been studied. Therefore, in the present study, we have investigated the maternal cardiovascularparameters and frequency domain indices of Heart rate variability (HRV) between normal pregnantwomen and women with risk factors for PIH in their 1st trimester of gestation.Methods: Two hundred twenty subjects each (220 of normotensive pregnant women i.e., control groupand 220 of pregnant women with risk factor for PIH i.e., study group) of 1st trimester of gestation wererecruited from the obstetrics & gynecology department of Umaid hospital, associated with Dr. S. N.Medical College, Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Physical examination was done and anthropometric measurementlike height & weight were taken. The collected data was statistically analyzed using HRV analysissoftware.Results: Significant difference in body mass index was observed between the two groups. Systolic bloodpressure, Diastolic blood pressure, Pulse pressure, Rate pressure product and Mean arterial pressure ofstudy group was significantly higher than control group. Values of LF and LF/HF ratio components offrequency domain analysis of HRV were significantly increased but HF component is non significantlydecrease in 1st trimester of the pregnant women with risk factor for PIH than normal pregnant women.Conclusion: The present study indicates that the cardiovascular parameters in 1st trimester of pregnantwomen with risk factor for PIH were increased highly significantly than the normal pregnant women.The highly significant (HS) (p<0.000) increase in the LF (nu) & LF/HF ratio and non significant (NS)(p<0.552) decrease in HF (nu) of pregnant women with risk factors for PIH was observed than normalpregnant women this indicate that sympathetic tone was increased in 1st trimester of pregnant womenwith risk factor for PIH. Vagal withdrawal and sympathetic exaggeration may be the possible cause ofPIH in pregnant women with its risk factors.
Hard Bilim Kurgu Usulü Humanoid Robot Tanımı
Authors: ACAR İbrahim
Published: September 2021

Bu yazı insan-robot ilişkisine dair, Frankenstein, yapay zekâ ve yeni medya girişimciliği anahtar kelimeleriyle hatırlanacak, farklı okumalara açık bir bilim kurgu filmi “Ex Machina”nın Sinema yazarı Kerem Akça' tarafından yapay zeka ekseninde değerlendirmesidir....“Ex Machina”, insan-robot ilişkisine dair, Frankenstein, yapay zekâ ve yeni medya girişimciliği anahtar kelimeleriyle hatırlanacak, farklı okumalara açık bir bilim kurgu filmi. Alex Garland, ilk yönetmenlik denemesinde çıtayı yükseltmese de bir ağırlık hissettiriyor. Alex Garland’ın hem yazıp hem yönettiği ilk film. Üç Danny Boyle filminin senaristi olarak bildiğimiz yaratıcı esasen bir edebiyat. Bu filmle de farklı bir görev üstlenmeye başlıyor. Açıkçası “Ex Machina” yönetmenlik konusunda duruşu olan ama tökezleyen bir film. Güneş ışığını içeri geçirip mat renkleri açığa çıkarmak bir tercih fakat 103 dakikayı besleyecek bir hikâye yok burada...
Les réseaux de producteurs du Sénégal font face à la COVID-19
Authors: Latané Annah , Voisard Jean-Michel , Brower Alice Olive
Published: September 2021

Cette étude a tiré parti d’une infrastructure d’encadrement et de collecte de données et de relations préalables légué par le projet Feed the Future Sénégal Naatal Mbay (« agriculture florissante »), financé par l’Agence des États-Unis pour le développement international (USAID) et mis en œuvre par RTI International entre 2015 et 2019. Réalisée en 2020, la recherche a intégré des organisations de producteurs pour qu’elles puissent suivre les ménages ruraux membres de leurs réseaux alors qu’ils faisaient face à la pandémie de COVID-19 et tentaient de réagir à ce choc. Les organisations de producteurs, avec le soutien de RTI et de la société-conseil locale STATINFO, ont réalisé une enquête sur un échantillon de 800 ménages agricoles membres de quatre organisations de producteurs soutenus par Naatal Mbay, réalisée en deux passages successifs, en août et octobre 2020. Des groupes de discussion ont été menés avec les responsables des réseaux, ainsi qu’une collecte de données a posteriori ont permis de contextualiser l’expérience face au choc de la COVID-19 et de valider les conclusions. Les conclusions ont montré que les producteurs étaient déjà aux prises des effets des faibles précipitations de la saison de production de 2019 et que la COVID-19 a aggravé ce premier choc du fait des perturbations des communications et des interdictions de déplacements entre les régions, créant ainsi des pénuries alimentaires et exerçant ainsi une pression sur l’utilisation des stocks de semences à des fins alimentaires. Les effets de l’insécurité alimentaire, mesurés par le biais de l’échelle d’accès d’insécurité alimentaire des ménages, se sont avérés être plus importants pour les ménages de Casamance que pour ceux des régions de Kaolack et de Kaffrine. Les conclusions ont également indiqué que les réseaux de producteurs ont déployé une intervention coordonnée incluant aide alimentaire et accès à des équipements de protection individuelle, distribution de semences de légumes et de céréales à cycle court (par exemple, le niébé et le maïs) et des semences adaptées au jardinage, mesures de protection pour les semences de céréales de l’année suivante et innovations financières avec les banques pour sécuriser les crédits. On s’attend à ce que les stocks d’alimentation soient reconstitués au début de la récolte en octobre 2020 et les réseaux prévoient d’accélérer la multiplication des semences, de diversifier les cultures au-delà des céréales, d’améliorer la communication au sein des réseaux et de généraliser l’accès aux instruments financiers au cours de la saison 2021. Les études ont indiqué que le projet antérieur financé par l’USAID est susceptible d'avoir contribué aux capacités de résilience des réseaux en renforçant le capital social et en encourageant le recours à des technologies et outils nouveaux au cours de ses années de fonctionnement.
Limites e contornos da responsabilidade civil dos agentes de tratamento de dados
Authors: Simão Filho Adalberto
Published: September 2021

O ensaio apresenta proposta de  um sistema interpretativo que leve em conta o diálogo necessário entre o CDC e a LGPD, a partir  de seus fundamentos e princípios, complementado pelos princípios da Lei de Liberdade Econômica e de  garantias de livre mercado,  para melhor fixação  dos  níveis de responsabilidades que possam ser  carreados aos agentes de tratamento de dados, em face de eventos de vazamento de dados que atinja  o Consumidor titular destes, enquanto participe de relação de consumo.
FACTORS AFFECTING UTILIZATION OF ANTENATAL CARE AMONG WOMEN ATTENDING PRIVATE SECTOR OUTPATIENT DEPARTMENT
Authors: Brohi Zahida Parveen , Brohi Uzma Parveen , Ujjan Roohi Nigar , Sadaf Aneela
Published: September 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the factors influencing women to avail antenatal care among women attending outpatient department (OPD), of private sector hospitals in Hyderabad. This was an interview-based survey conducted during a period of six months (from1stJuly 2019 to 31st December 2019) at OPD of private sector Hospital in Hyderabad. All the pregnant women and their female companions attending the antenatal OPD were included. Those women who regretted being part of the study were excluded. Participants of the study were interviewed regarding the knowledge and factors affecting utilization of antenatal care among women attending OPD as defined in a pre-set questionnaire. All the data was recorded in self-made proforma and analyzed by using SPSS version 20. A total of 500 pregnant women were interviewed regarding awareness of antenatal care. The study participants were grouped according to their age, 3% were 15-20 years of age, 30.9% were 21-30 years of age, 34.5% were 31-40 years of age and 31.5% were more than 41 years of age. Out of those who did not avail antenatal care, 8.5% were not allowed due to family restrictions, 47.3% reported ignorance, 9.7% lived far away from the facility, 24.2% could not afford it and 10.3% had other reasons of not availing antenatal care. The study concluded that the main reason for not utilizing antenatal care was ignorance by the women as well as their family members; affordability was also an important factors in a considerable number of participants.
A blend of 3 mushrooms dose-dependently increases butyrate production by the gut microbiota
Authors: Verhoeven J. , Keller D. , Verbruggen S. , Abboud K. Youssef , Venema K.
Published: September 2021

The gut microbiota has been indicated to play a crucial role in health and disease. Apart from changes in composition between healthy individuals and those with a disease or disorder, it has become clear that also microbial activity is important for health. For instance, butyrate has been proven to be beneficial for health, because, amongst others, it is a substrate for the colonocytes, and modulates the host’s immune system and metabolism. Here, we studied the effect of a blend of three mushrooms (Ganoderma lucidum GL AM P-38, Grifola frondosa GF AM P36 and Pleurotus ostreatus PO AM-GP37)) on gut microbiota composition and activity in a validated, dynamic, computer-controlled in vitro model of the colon (TIM-2). Predigested mushroom blend at three doses (0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 g/day of ingested mushroom blend) was fed to a pooled microbiota of healthy adults for 72 h, and samples were taken every day for microbiota composition (sequencing of amplicons of the V3-V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene) and activity (short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production). The butyrate producing genera Lachnospiraceae UCG-004, Lachnoclostridium, Ruminococcaceae UCG-002 and Ruminococcaceae NK4A214-group are all dose-dependently increased when the mushroom blend was fed. Entirely in line with the increase of these butyrate-producers, the cumulative amount of butyrate also dose-dependently increased, to roughly twice the amount compared to the control (medium without mushroom blend) on the high-dose mushroom blend. Butyrate proportionally made up 53.1% of the total SCFA upon feeding the high-dose mushroom blend, compared to 27% on the control medium. In conclusion, the (polysaccharides in the) mushroom blend led to substantial increase in butyrate by the gut microbiota. These results warrant future mechanistic research on the mushroom blend, as butyrate is considered to be one of the microbial metabolites that contributes to health, by increasing barrier function and modulating inflammation.
Intraoperative Cryotherapy in the Treatment of Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma of the Bone
Authors: Sundet Alec , McConnell Jodi , Walker Kyle , Lindeque Bennie
Published: September 2021

Osseous metastases in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) are a heterogeneous mix of cells with hypervascular and rapidly destructive properties that frequently exhibit resistance to both radiation and chemotherapy. Despite this, some patients with isolated and oligometastatic disease have the potential to be cured. Regardless, aggressive metastatic control is critical to minimizing morbidity and mortality for all patients with metastatic RCC. Percutaneous cryoprobes were developed as a minimally invasive technique for both pain relief and tumor control. However, there is little evidence describing an alternative use of this technology in the operating room to assist with open tumor resections, and no formal role for its use in orthopedics exists. Therefore, the authors added this modality to their intraoperative treatment of osseous RCC to investigate whether it would influence their ability to obtain local metastatic control. The authors performed a retrospective chart review of prospectively obtained data to evaluate the role of intraoperative cryotherapy in the treatment of osseous RCC. From 2004 to 2017, cryotherapy was used in 43 procedures, alleviating the need for additional radiation 84% (36 of 43) of the time. Local tumor control was achieved in 100% (43 of 43) of cases. There were 2 wound-related complications and 1 pathologic fracture. Despite the study's limitations, the authors believe that cryotherapy contributed to the reliability and reproducibility of their intralesional resections. Given the palliative, and potentially curative, opportunities afforded by complete locoregional tumor control, the authors support further investigation into the use of intraoperative cryotherapy to treat osseous metastases secondary to RCC. [
Orthopedics
. 2021;44(5):e645–e652.]
Venous Thromboembolism Requiring Anticoagulation Following Knee Arthroscopy in a Young Woman With an Intravaginal Contraceptive Device
Authors: Parisien Robert L. , Henkelman Erik S. , McCartney Ronald E. , Nicoletta Robert
Published: September 2021

Venous thromboembolism following elective knee arthroscopy remains relatively rare. NuvaRing (Merck & Co), an intravaginal contraceptive device, has received attention recently due to reports detailing unexpected catastrophic pulmonary embolism and further suggesting an increased risk of venous and arterial thrombotic events in women who use it. A healthy, 30-year-old woman with a NuvaRing contraceptive device presented to the sports medicine clinic with knee pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms. She was diagnosed with a lateral meniscus tear via magnetic resonance imaging and subsequently underwent a routine partial lateral meniscectomy. Her postoperative course was complicated by a rare deep venous thrombosis requiring anticoagulation therapy. This case highlights the risk of NuvaRing contraception and raises awareness within the orthopedic community regarding its use among patients undergoing arthroscopic outpatient surgery. [
Orthopedics
. 2021;44(5):e687–e690.]
The Fate of Lumbar Facet Cyst After Indirect Decompression Using Oblique Lateral Interbody Fusion in Degenerative Spondylolisthesis
Authors: Chang Sam Yeol , Kim Junho , Kim Yeonho , Im Byeong-Eun , Chang Bong-Soon , Lee Choon-Ki , Kim Hyoungmin
Published: September 2021

Favorable clinical outcomes have been reported for oblique lateral interbody fusion (OLIF) for various lumbar degenerative diseases. However, there is only limited evidence on the safety and effectiveness of OLIF in degenerative spondylolisthesis with lumbar facet cyst (LFC), and OLIF is often regarded as a relative contraindication for these patients. The authors prospectively enrolled patients who underwent a single-level OLIF for degenerative spondylolisthesis with LFC to evaluate the morphological changes of LFC and their clinical significance following OLIF. Twenty patients with a mean age of 69.6 years (range, 65–86 years) were enrolled. At 1 week postoperative, 5 (25%) patients had a residual cyst, whereas 15 (75%) patients had completely resolved cysts on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). No patient had a residual cyst on the 1-year postoperative MRI. Patients with cyst resolution (n=15) on the 1-week postoperative MRI had a larger slip percentage difference on the preoperative dynamic radiograph when compared with patients with no cyst resolution (n=5) (4.7%±2.8% vs 1.3%±0.3%,
P
=.002). The group with cyst resolution also showed a greater expansion of facet fluid width following OLIF, although this was not statistically significant (1.2±0.7 mm vs 0.7±0.5 mm,
P
=.098). For both groups, all preoperative clinical scores showed a significant improvement at 1 year after OLIF, but there was no significant difference between the groups at all time points. Preliminary 1-year follow-up results from this prospective series suggest that OLIF can be a useful option for fusion surgery in LFC patients with apparent segmental instability. [
Orthopedics
. 2021;44(5):306–312.]
The Minimally Clinically Important Difference and Substantial Clinical Benefit in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Time-to-Achievement Analysis
Authors: Beletsky Alexander , Naami Edmund , Lu Yining , Polce Evan M. , Chahla Jorge , Okoroha Kelechi R. , Bush-Joseph Charles , Bach Bernard , Yanke Adam , Forsythe Brian , Cole Brian J. , Verma Nikhil N.
Published: September 2021

This study examined the time-dependent course of the minimally clinically important difference (MCID) and the substantial clinical benefit (SCB) achievement for International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscales following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). A prospective institutional registry was queried for patients receiving ACLR. The patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) of interest included the IKDC score and KOOS sub-scales. One hundred forty-three patients (mean±SD age, 30.86±12.78 years; mean±SD body mass index, 25.51±4.64 kg/m
2
) were included in the analysis. Threshold values for the MCID/SCB were 18.9 of 29.6 on IKDC score, 15.7 of 25.3 on KOOS Symptom, 11.9 of 15.5 on KOOS Pain, 13.3 of 20.0 on KOOS ADL, 25.9 of 35.8 on KOOS Quality of Life (QoL), and 27.0 of 43.0 on KOOS Sport (area under the curve, 0.74–0.91). Overall, MCID achievement rates increased from 28.0% to 42.7% at 6 months to 41.9% to 70.8% at 12 months. Achievement rates of SCB increased from 16.1% to 30.4% at 6 months to 29.3% to 51.8% at 12 months. Statistically significant increases in MCID achievement (chi-square=47.95–79.36, all
P
<.001) and SCB achievement (chi-square=26.02–53.24, all
P
<.001) occurred from preoperative to 6-month time points across PROMs. From 6-month to 12-month time points, increases in MCID achievement occurred on IKDC score and KOOS QoL (chi-square=5.53–15.11,
P
<.001–.009). Statistically significant increases in MCID and SCB achievement occurred from preoperative to 6-month time points across IKDC score and KOOS subscales; however, statistically significant increases in achievement rates from 6 months to 1 year occurred on IKDC score, KOOS QoL, and KOOS Sport. This study underlines the importance of considering psychological factors and rehabilitative milestones when examining the achievement MCID and SCB after ACLR. [
Orthopedics
. 2021;44(5):299–305.]
High-Resolution Ultrasound in the Diagnosis and Surgical Management of Ulnar Neuropathy at the Elbow
Authors: Limbekar Naina S. , Soong Maximillian C. , Vytopil Michal M. , Blanchet Dayana T. , Paci Gabrielle M. , Ho Doreen T.
Published: September 2021

High-resolution ultrasound (HRU) has recently demonstrated the potential to facilitate diagnosis and treatment of upper extremity compression neuropathy. The authors hypothesized that HRU can improve preoperative evaluation of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) and that changes in ulnar nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) after cubital tunnel release may correlate with outcomes. Nineteen adult patients diagnosed with UNE who were scheduled for surgical decompression by a single hand surgeon were enrolled. Electrodiagnostic (EDX) testing, HRU of the ulnar nerve, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) score, and McGowan grade were obtained pre- and postoperatively. Fourteen patients completed the study. Statistically significant improvements were found in CSA measurements and QuickDASH scores. High-resolution ultra-sound was found to confirm UNE in all 7 patients with positive results on EDX, and additionally detected UNE in 3 of 6 patients with negative results on EDX and in 1 patient with equivocal (nonlocalized) EDX testing. All 4 of these additional HRU-detected cases improved clinically and by CSA measurements after surgery. In this series, HRU was superior to EDX testing in the diagnosis of UNE and demonstrated objective improvement in ulnar nerve CSA after successful cubital tunnel release. This modality, which is better tolerated, less costly, and less time-consuming than EDX testing or magnetic resonance imaging, should therefore be considered in the diagnosis and surgical management of UNE, particularly in cases with negative or equivocal results on EDX testing, or when outcomes are suboptimal. [
Orthopedics
. 2021;44(5):285–288.]
Optic Canal Diameters According to Age in the Pediatric Population
Authors: Akdulum İsmail , Gürün Enes , Tiken Ramazan , Aydemir Ahmet Burak , Boyunaga Öznur Leman
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

To determine the normal range of optic canal diameters in the Turkish pediatric population.

Methods:

Brain, orbital, and maxillofacial computed tomography examinations were evaluated retrospectively. Children with cranial bone disorders affecting the bone structure of the optic canal were excluded from the study. Oblique axial and oblique sagittal multiplanar reformatted images were created in accordance with the axis of the optic canal on both sides, and measurements were taken from the shortest transverse and craniocaudal diameters of the optic canal in these images.

Results:

Two hundred computed tomography examinations were evaluated. One hundred two of the patients were female and the rest were male. Patient ages ranged from 1 to 211 months (mean ± standard deviation: 86.42 ± 65.39 months). There was no significant difference between the transverse and craniocaudal optic canal diameters between sexes (
P
> .05). Therefore, the analyses were reevaluated in the entire patient series, regardless of sex. No significant correlation was found in the correlation test performed between optic canal diameters according to the age of the patients. No statistically significant difference was observed between the right and left optic canal diameters.

Conclusions:

The determination of normal values of tissues, structures, and organs that differs with age has an important role in pediatric radiology. The authors believe that the determination of normal optic canal diameters according to certain age groups will meet the needs of daily practice.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus
. 2021;58(5):319–323.]
Numerical solution to optimal control problems of oscillatory processes
Authors: Aida-Zade Kamil , Asadova Jamila
Published: September 2021

A numerical approach to the investigation of optimal control problems of oscillatory processes with boundary and intermediate concentrated (lumped) control actions has been proposed in this paper. The corresponding analytical formulas for the components of the target functional gradient with respect to control actions considered on the class of piecewise continuous functions are obtained. The results of numerical experiments on the examples of solving model problems of optimal control of oscillatory processes with boundary and intermediate concentrated controls are provided. These results illustrate the dependence of the minimum settling time of oscillatory processes on the number and locations of concentrated control actions, on the process parameters, on the resistance coefficient of the medium (dissipation factor), and other factors.
Explicit results for the distribution of the number of customers served during a busy period for $M^X/PH/1$ queue
Authors: Goswami Veena , Chaudhry M. L.
Published: September 2021

We give analytically explicit solutions for the distribution of the number of customers served during a busy period for the \begin{document}$ M^X/PH/1 $\end{document} queues when initiated with \begin{document}$ m $\end{document} customers. When customers arrive in batches, we present the functional equation for the Laplace transform of the number of customers served during a busy period. Applying the Lagrange inversion theorem, we provide a refined result to this functional equation. From a phase-type service distribution, we obtain the distribution of the number of customers served during a busy period for various special cases such as exponential, Erlang-k, generalized Erlang, hyperexponential, Coxian, and interrupted Poisson process. The results are exact, rapid and vigorous, owing to the clarity of the expressions. Moreover, we also consider computational results for several service-time distributions using our method. Phase-type distributions can approximate any non-negative valued distribution arbitrarily close, making them a useful practical stochastic modelling tool. These distributions have eloquent properties which make them beneficial in the computation of performance models.
Test
Authors: Wheeler Lindsay
Published: September 2021

TEST
A Treatise on Isoattribute Curve Analysis, Consumer Induction Factor, and Country Brand Value
Authors: Roy Debasish
Published: September 2021

This research has endeavored to focus on three major issues that are yet to be explored as per the existing literature on marketing. The first issue focuses on the Isoattribute curve analysis, rooted in the theory of conjoint utility analysis. In other words, the first segment concentrates on the derivation of the Isoattribute curve model which helps to attain the consumer equilibrium condition in a two-commodity world (brand or non-brand products). The second segment of the chapter has transitioned from the microeconomic model to the macroeconomic perspective based on a ‘single-country' approach, i.e., USA, based on a derivation of consumer induction factor (CIF). Finally, the third and final segment of the chapter extends its horizon at a larger scale by conducting a cross-country time-series study of 10 years (2009 – 2018) which redefines branding in an absolutely new dimension where the ‘brand values' of seven sample countries are estimated by inculcating the socio-economic, political, and working environment factors as the major dimensions.
Omnichannel and Experience Approach as a Post-COVID-19 Economic Reactivation Mechanism
Authors: Barbery-Montoya Danny Christian , Coronel-Arellano Dennisse A. , Soria-Loor Ariana
Published: September 2021

The aim of this chapter is to show how omnichannel tools must be applied through the process of creating experiences for the consumers. During the literature review, some authors make approaches to the key concepts connecting omnichannels and consumer experiences; therefore, they explain through the analysis of data the reality of the Ecuadorian environment and global trends. With this context, this chapter will present how, by using macro environment and accessibility, a unique experience may be created in the customer journey in omnichannel.
Determinants of RFID Adoption Intention in the Healthcare Industry for Patient Monitoring
Authors: Sarmah Bijoylaxmi , Kamboj Shampy , Phookan Neeraj Kumar
Published: September 2021

Radio frequency identification (RFID) technology holds tremendous potential in improving the patient management system in hospitals attaining global importance in the healthcare industry due to the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic at present. RFID assists in wireless data storage and automatic retrieval, making systems efficient, improving patient safety, and decreasing costs. Although RFID is an emerging technology in the healthcare industry, its adoption is yet to gather momentum. This chapter will provide a background for healthcare practitioners and researchers about RFID technologies in the healthcare sector. Moreover, an integrated conceptual framework will be proposed consisting of factors that influence RFID technology adoption intention in the healthcare industry. This study will be the first of its kind to identify and classify various factors of RFID adoption intention and provide a comprehensive model using an exploratory method laying the foundation for academicians and industry practitioners for the future scope of its research.
Rigenera protocol: Elucidation of the mechanisms involved in wound healing
Authors: Ceccarelli Gabriele , Balli Martina , Bellazzi Riccardo , Sampaolesi Maurilio , Cusella Gabriella
Published: September 2021

In this study, we show an approach that follow 3R guidelines in order to demonstrate how Autologous Micrografts (AMG) modulates primary fibroblast migration and accelerates skin re-epithelialization without affecting cell proliferation.
Bone and gut microbiota crosstalk: A novel 3D in vitro approach
Authors: Mattioli Belmonte Monica , Cerqueni Giorgia , Biagini Francesco , Calvigioni Marco , Russello Emanuele , Paglione Nunzia , Montemurro Francesca , Ghelardi Emilia , Vozzi Giovanni
Published: September 2021

The present research aimed at shedding light on the interplay between the composition of the human gut microbiota and bone cells.
A millifluidic-based 3D-platform as a useful tool for the efficacy of glaucoma therapeutic strategies
Authors: Bassi Anna M. , Tirendi Sara , Scarfì Sonia , Passalacqua Mario , Almonti Vanessa , Vernazza Stefania
Published: September 2021

The aim of this present study is to investigate the role of damaged Trabecular Meshwork (TM) in triggering neuron-like cell apoptosis. Preliminary results showed that stressed TM releases harmful signals to neuron-like cells, suggesting its pivotal role in glaucoma cascade.
In silico modeling of biochemical pathways
Authors: Milazzo Paolo , Gori Roberta , Micheli Alessio , Nasti Lucia , Podda Marco
Published: September 2021

We present in silico modeling methods for the investigation of dynamical properties of biochemical pathways, that are chemical reaction networks underlying cell functioning. Since pathways are (complex) dynamical systems, in-silico models are often studied by applying numerical integration techniques for Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs), or stochastic simulation algorithms. However, these techniques require a rather accurate knowledge of the kinetic parameters of the modeled chemical reactions. Moreover, in the case of very complex reaction networks, in silico analysis can become unfeasible from the computational viewpoint. Consequently, in the last few years several approaches have been proposed that focus on estimating or predicting dynamical properties from the analysis of the structure of the biochemical pathway. This means that the analysis focuses more on the interaction patterns than on the kinetic parameters, and this usually makes it possible to deduce the role of each molecule and how each molecule qualitatively influences each other, by abstracting away from quantitative details about concentrations and reaction rates.
Novel 3D in vitro retina model to investigate mechanisms involved in age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Belgio Beatrice , Mantero Sara , Boschetti Federica
Published: September 2021

RetinaIn the present study, we present a strategy to develop a 3R-compliant in vitro retina model to study age-related macular degeneration pathways.
Detection of pathogens from environmental samples for the evaluation of the health status of laboratory animals
Authors: Cacciamali Andrea , Romano Chiara , Checco Martina Angela , Villa Riccardo
Published: September 2021

Pathogens present in the environment are the biggest source of diseases and epidemics in the breeding of laboratory animals. The presence of microorganisms, in fact, can critically influence the animal health status and consequently the validity and reproducibility of experimental data. In accordance with the 3Rs principle, this study fits into the Refinement and Reduction concepts. The development of a health surveillance plan on environmental material from animal housing would have an important impact not only on maintaining an adequate state of health and on the generation of quality experimental data, but also on reducing the number of animals to be sacrificed.