bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retinal granular cell tumor: a case report
Authors: Park Jimin , Cho Kyung-Ja , Lee Junyeop
Published: December 2021

Background

To report a rare case of granular cell tumor invading the retina.

Case presentation

A 56-year-old female complained of blurred vision for 2 weeks in her left eye. An irregular-shaped retinal mass in the inferonasal and extending to the optic disc accompanied by dense exudation and extensive serous retinal detachment was observed. Several intravitreal bevacizumab injections were ineffective for stabilizing retinal exudation and intraocular pressure (IOP). Vitrectomy was performed to re-attach the retina and obtain a tumor biopsy specimen. Histopathological analysis revealed that the intraocular mass was a granular cell tumor. Immunohistochemical studies demonstrated that the tumor was positive for S100 and CD68, focal positive for neurofilaments, but negative for ERG and HMB-45. Local recurrence and distant metastasis were not found, but visual acuity had worsened to no light perception at the last visit due to uncontrolled intraocular pressure and retinal exudation after the surgery.

Conclusions

Granular cell tumor is a rare benign neoplasm, but it can lead to devastating visual loss if it invades the retina adjacent to the optic nerve head.
Significance of preoperative left ventricular ejection fraction in 5-year outcome after isolated CABG
Authors: Fallahzadeh Aida , Sheikhy Ali , Ajam Ali , Sadeghian Saeed , Pashang Mina , Shirzad Mahmoud , Bagheri Jamshid , Mansourian Soheil , Momtahen Shahram , Hosseini Kaveh
Published: December 2021

Background

Pre-operative ejection fraction (EF) and comorbidities affect post-op outcomes. We aimed to compare the mortality and adverse events of patients with different baseline EF and also to evaluate the distribution of comorbidities in each EF group.

Methods

A total of 20,937 patients who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery from January 2006 to December 2016 was included. Patients were divided into three groups based on their pre-operative left ventricular EF as follows; (1) Normal: EF ≥ 50%; (2) Mild to moderately reduced: 50% < EF ≤ 35%; and (3) Severely reduced: EF < 35%. The backward elimination method was considered for multivariate Cox-regression analysis to locate predictors of mortality and non-fatal cerebro-cardiovascular events (CCVEs). The median follow-up time was 5.61 [3.12–8.0] years.

Results

The mean age in the total population was 60.94 ± 9.51 years and 73.6% of the total population was male. Diabetes mellitus was the common risk factor of mortality and CCVE in all EF groups. Impaired renal function (GFR < 60 ml/min) was associated with a higher risk of mortality after CABG regardless of EF level. The median 5-year mortality rate in patients with normal EF, mild-moderately reduced EF and severely reduced EF were 9.5%, 12.8%, and 22.7% respectively (P < 0.001). Although the trend of CCVEs was higher in severe left ventricle (LV) dysfunction, it was not statistically significant (p = 0.071).

Conclusion

Patients with severely reduced EF are at higher risk of mortality after CABG compared to those with higher EF levels; however, the rate of CCVEs may not be necessarily higher after adjustment for multiple pre-operative comorbidities.
Effects of hypercholesterolism on expansion of abdominal aortic aneurysm in rat model
Authors: Lee Jong Seok , Park Sun Cheol , Kim Sang Dong
Published: December 2021

Background

Inflammation is recognized as a critical process in expansion of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). A relationship between effects of cholesterol and statin in this process have been suggested, but remain untested. Therefore, current study aimed to examine the effects of hypercholesterolism on expansion of AAA in a rat model.

Methods

A total of 16 male rats were divided into 4 groups as follows: group I, normocholesterol diet and saline infusion, group II, normocholesterol diet and porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE) infusion, group III, hypercholesterol diet and PPE infusion, and group IV, hypercholesterol diet, PPE infusion and statin administration. At the 3rd week, saline was infused intraluminally in group I and PPE in groups II-IV to induce AAA. At the 5th week, blood and aortic tissue were obtained from each rat for evaluation of lipid profiles, aortic diameters (ADs), and characteristics of stains.

Results

Post-procedural aortic diameter (AD3) and AD3/pre-procedural aortic diameter (AD1) were significantly different among four groups (P = 0.042, P = 0.028, respectively). AD3 was significantly larger in group II than group I, and group III than group IV (P = 0.012, P = 0.043, respectively). AD3/AD1 was significantly higher in group II than group I, and group III than group II (P = 0.008, P = 0.030, respectively). Group III showed the highest cellularity for inflammatory cells.

Conclusions

Though larger experimental and clinical studies are necessary, authors suggest that hypercholesterolism can aggravate expansion of AAA, and that statin therapy can reduce it. Therefore, monitoring for hypercholesterolism and instituting statin therapy may be helpful to suppress expansion of AAA.
Minimally invasive extracorporeal circulation in end-stage coronary artery disease patients undergoing myocardial revascularization
Authors: Condello Ignazio , Santarpino Giuseppe , Bartolomucci Francesco , Valenti Giovanni , Di Bari Nicola , Moscarelli Marco , Vitobello Vincenza , Triggiani Vera , Gaudino Mario , Rimmaudo Flavio , Speziale Giuseppe , Nasso Giuseppe
Published: December 2021

Background

Patients with coronary artery disease and concomitant heart failure (left ventricular ejection fraction < 35%) requiring myocardial revascularization are at risk of poor long-term prognosis and higher mortality. The benefits of minimally invasive extracorporeal circulation (MiECC), particularly in end-stage coronary artery disease patients undergoing myocardial revascularization, have not been completely described.

Materials and methods

In this single-centre control study, 60 end-stage coronary artery disease patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) were included. Patients were divided into two groups of 30 patients each undergoing CABG using MiECC or conventional extracorporeal circulation (cECC).

Results

In the MiECC group, oxygen delivery index (DO2i) was 305 mL/min/m2 in relation to indexed oxygen extraction ratio (O2ERi) 21.5%, whereas in the cECC group DO2i was 288 mL/min/m2 in relation to O2ERi 25.6% (p = 0.037). Lactate levels > 3 mmol/L were reported in 7 MiECC patients vs 20 cECC patients (p = 0.038), with blood glucose peak. Mean nadir hemoglobin values during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) were 9.7 g/dL in the MiECC group vs 7.8 g/dL in the cECC group (p = 0.044). Cardiac index during CPB was 2.4 L/min/m2 in both groups. Red blood cell units administered were 8 vs 21 units in the MiECC vs cECC group (p = 0.022). A glycemic peak was recorded in 7 patients of the MiECC group and in 20 patients of the cECC group (p = 0.037).

Conclusion

In end-stage coronary artery disease, the MiECC technique was associated with a higher DO2i compared to cECC. MiECC patients showed a significant reduction in red blood cell unit administration and peak intraoperative lactate levels, which correlated with better postoperative outcome.
Prevalence of and risk factors for depressive and anxiety symptoms in a large sample of Chinese adolescents in the post-COVID-19 era
Authors: Zhang Xiaobin , Yang Haidong , Zhang Jing , Yang Man , Yuan Nian , Liu Junjie
Published: December 2021

Background

Depressive and anxiety symptoms are widespread among adolescents today, creating a large social problem. However, few previous studies have addressed depression and anxiety among adolescents in Chinese cohorts. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of and risk factors for depressive and anxiety symptoms among Chinese middle school adolescent students in the post-COVID-19 era.

Methods

A total of 22,380 middle school students from Jiangsu Province were surveyed online, and their general demographic data were collected. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) was used to assess depressive symptoms, and the seven-item Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) scale was used to measure anxiety symptoms.

Results

Of these participants (aged 12–17 years), 25.6% had depressive symptoms, 26.9% had anxiety symptoms, and 20.6% had a combination of depression and anxiety symptoms. The prevalence of depressive symptoms was higher in female adolescents (27.6%) than in male adolescents (23.7%; χ2 = 45.479, P = 0.000), and the proportion with anxiety symptoms was higher among female adolescents (28.6%) than among male adolescents (25.4%; χ2 = 29.390, P = 0.000). Furthermore, binary logistic regression analysis showed that gender, region, and parental relationship were significantly associated with depressive symptoms among adolescents, while age, gender, region, and parental relationship were significantly associated with anxiety symptoms.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrated that the prevalence of reported depressive and anxiety symptoms in Chinese adolescents are high. Female gender, urban region, and poor parental relationship may be risk factors for depressive and anxiety symptoms. Furthermore, policy makers, schools, and families need to pay more attention to the psychological health of adolescents, develop response plans and take early intervention measures to reduce the prevalence of adolescent depression and anxiety.
Methodological approaches for conducting follow-up research with clinical trial participants: a scoping review and expert interviews
Authors: Signorell Aita , Saric Jasmina , Appenzeller-Herzog Christian , Ewald Hannah , Burri Christian , Goetz Martin , Gerold Jana
Published: December 2021

Background

Evidence-based establishment and implementation of best principles, laws and ordinances that regulate clinical research depend on the consultation and involvement of trial participants. Yet, guidance on methodological approaches to obtain trial participants’ perspectives is currently missing. This scoping review therefore aimed at identifying, describing and evaluating research approaches to obtain trial participants’ feedback on their views and experiences.

Methods

We searched the electronic databases Medline and PsycInfo via Ovid and the Web of Science Core Collection. Clinical trials were included that involved adult participants that were conducted in selected high-income countries and that were published in peer-reviewed journals between 1985 and 2018. In addition, 29 expert interviews were conducted between March and May 2019.

Results

Out of 5994 identified records, 23 articles were included in this review. Twelve studies used a qualitative approach, 10 were quantitative and one study used a mixed-method design. More than 75% of all work was conducted in the USA and the UK. The scoping review and the expert interviews highlighted that recruitment of participants was generally done through direct contact by principal investigators and/or study nurses or through searches in de-identified patient databases. Authors used surveys, interviews or focus group discussions. The tools used were either based on existing validated ones or developed and verified de novo with the support of experts and/or patient representatives.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first methodological literature review of approaches to researching experiences of clinical trial participants where findings were triangulated with expert interviews. Covering a range of indications, trial phases and study settings, it demonstrates that clinical trial participant perspectives and experience is heavily under-researched. This casts doubt on the overall robustness of available insight into trial participants’ views and experiences. Our results demonstrate that the methodology for studying participant opinion, perception and experience should be adapted to the measure of interest and conform to the study population. Using valid patient experience data is the basis to evaluate existing legal and regulatory human subject research frameworks for their appropriateness from a patient perspective. Such an evaluation will be critical to empower research participants.
Balloon pulmonary angioplasty combined with riociguat for the treatment of inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (PRACTICE study): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhao Qin-Hua , Gong Su-Gang , He Jing , Yuan Ping , Wu Wen-Hui , Luo Ci-Jun , Jiang Rong , Zhang Rui , Qiu Hong-Ling , Li Hui-Ting , Li Yuan , Liu Jin-Ming , Wang Lan
Published: December 2021

Background

Management of inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) remains a clinical challenge. Currently, riociguat, a soluble guanylate-cyclase stimulator is recommended by international guidelines. More recently, balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) develops as an alternative treatment for inoperable CTEPH.

Method

This study is a single-center randomized controlled trial. Subjects with inoperable CTEPH are randomized into either a BPA combined with riociguat or riociguat monotherapy group (2:1) and observed for 12 months after initiation of treatment. The primary endpoint is the change in pulmonary vascular resistance from baseline to 12 months after initiation of treatment. The secondary endpoints include 6-min walk distance (6MWD), WHO-FC, NT-proBNP, SF-36, and other hemodynamic parameters. Safety endpoints are analyzed too.

Discussion

This study aims to compare the efficacy and safety of BPA combined with riociguat and riociguat monotherapy for inoperable CTEPH.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2000032403. Registered on 27 April 2020.
Down-regulation of OsMYB103L distinctively alters beta-1,4-glucan polymerization and cellulose microfibers assembly for enhanced biomass enzymatic saccharification in rice
Authors: Wu Leiming , Zhang Mingliang , Zhang Ran , Yu Haizhong , Wang Hailang , Li Jingyang , Wang Youmei , Hu Zhen , Wang Yanting , Luo Zi , Li Lin , Wang Lingqiang , Peng Liangcai , Xia Tao
Published: December 2021

Background

As a major component of plant cell walls, cellulose provides the most abundant biomass resource convertible for biofuels. Since cellulose crystallinity and polymerization have been characterized as two major features accounting for lignocellulose recalcitrance against biomass enzymatic saccharification, genetic engineering of cellulose biosynthesis is increasingly considered as a promising solution in bioenergy crops. Although several transcription factors have been identified to regulate cellulose biosynthesis and plant cell wall formation, much remains unknown about its potential roles for genetic improvement of lignocellulose recalcitrance.

Results

In this study, we identified a novel rice mutant (Osfc9/myb103) encoded a R2R3-MYB transcription factor, and meanwhile generated OsMYB103L-RNAi-silenced transgenic lines. We determined significantly reduced cellulose levels with other major wall polymers (hemicellulose, lignin) slightly altered in mature rice straws of the myb103 mutant and RNAi line, compared to their wild type (NPB). Notably, the rice mutant and RNAi line were of significantly reduced cellulose features (crystalline index/CrI, degree of polymerization/DP) and distinct cellulose nanofibers assembly. These alterations consequently improved lignocellulose recalcitrance for significantly enhanced biomass enzymatic saccharification by 10–28% at p < 0.01 levels (n = 3) after liquid hot water and chemical (1% H2SO4, 1% NaOH) pretreatments with mature rice straws. In addition, integrated RNA sequencing with DNA affinity purification sequencing (DAP-seq) analyses revealed that the OsMYB103L might specifically mediate cellulose biosynthesis and deposition by regulating OsCesAs and other genes associated with microfibril assembly.

Conclusions

This study has demonstrated that down-regulation of OsMYB103L could specifically improve cellulose features and cellulose nanofibers assembly to significantly enhance biomass enzymatic saccharification under green-like and mild chemical pretreatments in rice. It has not only indicated a powerful strategy for genetic modification of plant cell walls in bioenergy crops, but also provided insights into transcriptional regulation of cellulose biosynthesis in plants.
Cocktail biosynthesis of triacylglycerol by rational modulation of diacylglycerol acyltransferases in industrial oleaginous Aurantiochytrium
Authors: Lan Chuanzeng , Wang Sen , Zhang Huidan , Wang Zhuojun , Wan Weijian , Liu Huan , Hu Yang , Cui Qiu , Song Xiaojin
Published: December 2021

Background

Triacylglycerol (TAG) is an important storage lipid in organisms, depending on the degree of unsaturation of fatty acid molecules attached to glycerol; it is usually used as the feedstock for nutrition or biodiesel. However, the mechanism of assembly of saturated fatty acids (SFAs) or polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) into TAGs remains unclear for industrial oleaginous microorganism.

Results

Diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) is a key enzyme for TAG synthesis. Hence, ex vivo (in yeast), and in vivo functions of four DGAT2s (DGAT2A, DGAT2B, DGAT2C, and DGAT2D) in industrial oleaginous thraustochytrid Aurantiochytrium sp. SD116 were analyzed. Results revealed that DGAT2C was mainly responsible for connecting PUFA to the sn-3 position of TAG molecules. However, DGAT2A and DGAT2D target SFA and/or MUFA.

Conclusions

There are two specific TAG assembly routes in Aurantiochytrium. The “saturated fatty acid (SFA) TAG lane” primarily produces SFA-TAGs mainly mediated by DGAT2D whose function is complemented by DGAT2A. And, the “polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) TAG lane” primarily produces PUFA-TAGs via DGAT2C. In this study, we demonstrated the functional distribution pattern of four DGAT2s in oleaginous thraustochytrid Aurantiochytrium, and provided a promising target to rationally design TAG molecular with the desired characteristics.
DRESS syndrome in the setting of oxacillin therapy—a call for better patient preparedness: a case report
Authors: Abu Hawa Ozien , Ali Sajjadh M. J. , Phuyal Anil , Sherif Akil , Williams Gregory T. , Chastain Iryna
Published: December 2021

Background

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome is a rare but severe and potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity reaction, with significant morbidity and mortality. The clinical presentation of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms may include extensive skin rash, fever, lymphadenopathy, internal organ involvement, eosinophilia, and atypical lymphocytosis, most commonly due to drug-induced reaction. Our case is a rare occurrence of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome in the setting of oxacillin therapy.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old Caucasian male presented to the emergency department on account of acute onset, 2-day history of generalized pruritic rash with associated fever, occurring 3 weeks after commencing therapy with intravenous oxacillin for methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. He had no known drug allergies. Two days prior to hospitalization, he had a telehealth visit with the infectious diseases specialist on account of his rash, and was recommended to use oral diphenhydramine. However, with the onset of fever and persistence of his rash, he was advised to discontinue the oxacillin and present to the emergency department. On examination, he was febrile at 101.2 °F and had a generalized blanchable maculopapular and morbilliform rash involving the face, trunk, upper and lower extremities, but sparing the palms, soles, and oral mucosa. He had palpable nontender lymph nodes in the cervical and inguinal regions bilaterally. Laboratory studies revealed atypical lymphocytosis, eosinophilia, neutrophilia, and elevated serum transaminases. He was started on intravenous diphenhydramine and admitted to the in-patient medical service. On the second day of hospitalization, his fever resolved. However, his rash was persistent and generalized, as well as elevated transaminases and an abnormal cell count on the second day of hospitalization. To complete his 6-week course of antibiotics for methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia, he was switched to an alternative therapy with cefazolin, and he was scheduled for weekly follow-up assessments following hospital discharge.

Conclusions

Healthcare providers should increasingly be aware of the significant morbidity and mortality attributable to drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome and the potential medications which may incite such life-threatening reactions. Early recognition of drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome and prompt institution of management strategies can promote improved clinical outcomes. Enhanced patient–provider communication strategies should be implemented to better prepare patients for the likelihood of such drug reactions, with the goal of improving patient-centered care and adherence with treatment strategies.
Growth, respiratory activity and chlorpyrifos biodegradation in cultures of Azotobacter vinelandii ATCC 12837
Authors: Conde-Avila Victoria , Peña Carlos , Pérez-Armendáriz Beatriz , Loera Octavio , Martínez Valenzuela Carmen , Leyva Morales José Belisario , Jesús Bastidas Bastidas Pedro de , Salgado-Lugo Holjes , Ortega Martínez Luis Daniel
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the growth, respiratory activity, and biodegradation of chlorpyrifos in cultures of Azotobacter vinelandii ATCC 12837. A strategy based on the modification of culture media and aeration conditions was carried out to increase the cell concentration of A. vinelandii, in order to favor and determine its tolerance to chlorpyrifos and its degradation ability. The culture in shaken flasks, using sucrose as a carbon source, significantly improved the growth compared to media with mannitol. When the strain was cultivated under oxygen-limited (5.5, 11.25 mmol L−1 h−1) and no-oxygen-limited conditions (22 mmol L−1 h−1), the growth parameters were not affected. In cultures in a liquid medium with chlorpyrifos, the bacteria tolerated a high pesticide concentration (500 ppm) and the growth parameters were improved even under conditions with a reduced carbon source (sucrose 2 g L−1). The strain degraded 99.6% of chlorpyrifos at 60 h of cultivation, in co-metabolism with sucrose; notably, A. vinelandii ATCC 12837 reduced by 50% the initial pesticide concentration in only 6 h (DT50).

Graphical Abstract
Impact of dynamic capacities on the performance of food and beverage enterprises in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Zhou Lu Lin , Ayegba James Onuche , Ayegba Emmanuel Onu , Ayegba Peace Maina , Jie Zhang Xin
Published: December 2021

This study examined the impact of dynamic capacities on the performance of food and beverage enterprises in Lagos, Nigeria. The following sub-variables (strategic decision-making capacity, product innovation capacity, strategic flexibility, competitive intensity, technological turbulence, and technological capability) were employed to represent the variable of dynamic capacity. Also, the following sub-variables (sales growth, enterprise survival, enterprise efficiency, and competitive advantage) were employed to represent the variable of enterprise performance. Primary data was used to achieve descriptive and inferential statistics, and the statistics is estimated by the PLS-SEM method which was calibrated on Lisrel 8.70 software. This study found that product innovation, competitive intensity and technological turbulence, technological capability and competitive intensity, and strategic flexibility are critical sub-variables in determining the robustness of dynamic capacities, as they adequately improve increasing sales growth, survival, and sustenance of enterprise into the unforeseeable future, efficiency of enterprise, and competitive advantage of food and beverage manufacturing enterprises, respectively, particularly in this trying period that is evidenced with technological change and competition, among others.
A 35-year-old father with persistent Mullerian duct syndrome and seminoma of the right undescended testis: a rare case report
Authors: Mansour Marah , Fattal Abdullah , Ouerdane Yassamine , Alsuliman Tamim , Kanjawi Omar
Published: December 2021

Background

A persistent Müllerian duct syndrome is a rare disorder of sexual differentiation characterized by the presence of the female reproductive system in a normal male.

Case presentation

Herein, we report a case of a 35-year-old father with persistent Müllerian duct syndrome and seminoma in the right undescended testis. The exploratory laparotomy was performed and revealed a mass in the right undescended testis and Müllerian duct structures.

Conclusions

For patients with cryptorchidism and inguinal hernia, the persistent Müllerian duct syndrome should be considered, and radiological evaluation of the genitourinary system is recommended for early diagnosis of persistent Müllerian duct syndrome. The persistent Müllerian duct syndrome is usually detected during a surgical operation, and it is considered a risk factor for developing testicular malignancies.
Staphylococcus aureus with inducible clindamycin resistance and methicillin resistance in a tertiary hospital in Nepal
Authors: Thapa Devi , Pyakurel Susil , Thapa Sabita , Lamsal Suresh , Chaudhari Mahesh , Adhikari Nabaraj , Shrestha Dhiraj
Published: December 2021

Background

Staphylococcus aureusis a global public health issue in both community and hospital settings. Management of methicillin-resistantS. aureus(MRSA) infections are tough owing to its resistance to many antibiotics. Macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B (MLSB) antibiotics are commonly used for the management of MRSA. This study was aimed to determine the occurrence of inducible clindamycin- and methicillin-resistantS. aureus at a tertiary care hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Methods

A total of 1027 clinical samples were processed following standard laboratory procedures and antibiotic susceptibility testing ofS. aureuswas performed by disc diffusion method. MRSA isolates were detected phenotypically using cefoxitin disc, and inducible clindamycin resistance was detected phenotypically using the D-zone test.

Results

Of 1027 samples, 321 (31.2%) were culture positive, of which 38 (11.8%) wereS. aureus. AllS. aureusisolates were susceptible to vancomycin, and 25 (67%) ofS. aureusisolates were multidrug-resistant. Similarly, 15 (39.5%) ofS. aureuswere MRSA and 14 (36.5%) were inducible clindamycin-resistant phenotypes.

Conclusion

Inducible clindamycin and methicillin resistance were common inS. aureus. This emphasizes that the methicillin resistance test and the D-zone test should be incorporated into the routine antibiotic susceptibility testing in hospital settings.
Precificação do risco de liquidez no mercado acionário brasileiro
Authors: Carvalho Gabriel Augusto de , Ribeiro João Eduardo , Amaral Hudson Fernandes , Pinheiro Juliano Lima , Correia Laise Ferraz
Published: December 2021

Esse estudo teve como objetivo testar o desempenho do modelo de cinco fatores proposto por Fama e French (2015) acrescido de um fator para o risco de liquidez no contexto do mercado acionário brasileiro para, em seguida, verificar se o risco de liquidez das ações é precificado no mercado de capitais brasileiro. Para tanto, utilizou-se uma amostra composta por 385 ações negociadas na B3 entre junho de 1999 e junho de 2017, sendo testada a inclusão de um fator para o risco de liquidez, representado pela iliquidez ajustada e pelo turnover padronizado, no modelo de Fama e French (2015). Os resultados obtidos nos modelos estimados indicaram que a liquidez é um fator de risco precificado pelos investidores no mercado brasileiro, haja vista a melhora do desempenho do modelo de Fama e French (2015) após a inclusão do fator para o risco de liquidez.
Relevância das diferenças entre contratos futuros e a termo
Authors: Andrade Rafael de Godoy Oliveira , Pinto Afonso de Campos
Published: December 2021

Visando estudar as diferenças entre contratos futuros e contratos a termo no mercado cambial brasileiro, este trabalho foca no contrato de Dólar Futuro negociado na BM&FBOVESPA que, para vencimentos sem liquidez, é marcado a mercado pelo preço teórico dos contratos a termo. Simulações de Monte Carlo de uma carteira protegida contendo contratos de Dólar Futuro, DI Futuro e DDI Futuro mostram claramente que essa metodologia de marcação a mercado deveria, ao menos, ser revista.
Influência do investimento em bens de capital no desempenho econômico-financeiro sob a moderação da governança corporativa
Authors: Pereira Ana Luiza Cordeiro , Benedicto Gideon Carvalho de , Prado José Willer do , Carvalho Eduardo Gomes , Carvalho Francisval de Melo
Published: December 2021

O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar como o investimento em bens de capital impacta o desempenho econômico-financeiro das empresas listadas na Brasil, Bolsa, Balcão (B3), assim como se a governança corporativa atua como moderadora nessa relação. A pesquisa teve caráter quantitativo, e empregou a modelagem de equações estruturais por mínimos quadrados parciais como técnica de análise de dados. Os resultados mostraram que o investimento impacta significativamente a liquidez, endividamento, atividade operacional e valor de mercado. Adicionalmente, observa-se que a governança corporativa parece amenizar os efeitos das imperfeições de mercado sobre a assertividade dos investimentos em bens de capital.
Apreçamento de debêntures ilíquidas combinando técnicas de aprendizado não supervisionado e supervisionado
Authors: Zuppini Marcela Sousa , Pinto Afonso de Campos , Matsumoto Élia Yathie
Published: December 2021

A marcação a mercado de ativos ilíquidos é um desafio, dada a escassez de informações e negociações no mercado que possam indicar qual deve ser o seu preço justo. No caso de debêntures ilíquidas, uma das dificuldades na determinação do spread apropriado para esses ativos é a falta de valores de negociações anteriores. Este trabalho busca determinar o spread de debêntures ilíquidas com base nas suas características, nas informações sobre a saúde financeira dos emissores e na situação do mercado. O método apresentado utiliza técnicas de aprendizado não supervisionado e supervisionado, aliando suas respectivas características para a solução do problema de apreçamento de debêntures ilíquidas, podendo ser aplicada para outros tipos de ativos ilíquidos. Nos experimentos, a metodologia proposta se mostrou efetiva para apreçar debêntures ilíquidas sem valor anterior de spread.
O impacto de criptomoedas na performance de carteiras multiativos: Evidências para o Brasil
Authors: Donatelli Neto Oswaldo , Colombo Jéfferson Augusto
Published: December 2021

Este artigo avalia o impacto da adição de criptomoedas em carteiras bem diversificadas sob a perspectiva de um investidor brasileiro. Partindo de portfólios-base compostos por ações (IBOV), renda fixa (IMAG), imóveis (IFIX), \emph{commodities} (OURO) e ativos internacionais (IVVB11), avalia-se o incremento no retorno ajustado ao risco a partir da inclusão de criptomoedas sob oito estratégias de alocação de ativos dentro e fora-da-amostra. Os resultados indicam que a inclusão de criptoativos aumenta os índices de Sharpe, Sortino e Omega para todas as estratégias analisadas. Dentre os grupos de diversificação, “Cripto Basket” e “Altcoins” superaram, em média, “Bitcoin”, indicando potenciais benefícios de exposições diversificadas a criptoativos. Os resultados são robustos a diferentes janelas de estimação e frequências de rebalanceamento.
Effects of pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium L.) dietary supplementation on performance, carcass quality, biochemical parameters and duodenal histomorphology of broilers
Authors: ÖLMEZ Μ , YÖRÜK ΜΑ
Published: December 2021

In this study, the effects of (Mentha pulegium L.) dietary supplementation on performance, carcass characteristics, some biochemical parameters, and intestinal histology were investigated in broiler chickens. Four groups were formed as control and groups treated with pennyroyal at different levels (0.25%, 0.50%, and 1.00%). In the experiment. Each group had eight replicates. A total of 192 broilers were used in the study with six broilers in each replicate. Water and feed were ad libitum provided. Adding different levels of pennyroyals to broiler rations significantly affected performance parameters; an increase in final body weight and carcass yield and a decrease in total feed intake and the conversion rate was observed (P<0.05). Serum cholesterol, malondialdehyde, and glutathione values were also affected by the addition of pennyroyal (P<0.05). Pennyroyal was effective in vitro against S. enteritidis, E. coli, S. aureus, S. abortus ovis, B.anthracis sterne strains. Besides, it increased the duodenum villus’ length compared to the control group (P<0.05). On the other hand, pennyroyal did not affect carcass and visceral organ weights, several serum biochemical values (P>0.05). As a result, it was concluded that pennyroyal at the level of 0.50% in ration was effective on health and growth performance of broilers.
On the Development of Professional Audit Education in the Russian Federation
Authors: Kazakova Nataliya
Published: December 2021

The article is devoted to the development of professional audit education in the context of demand from employers. The forthcoming changes in the qualifi cation exam for auditors, the interaction of the Unifi ed Attestation Commission with specialized international qualifi cations and the introduction of additional certifi cation have been substantiated.
Methods of Formation of Computational Skills Using Information Technologies
Authors: Kashicyna Yu. , Vasileva Marina
Published: December 2021

The article is based on the main key ideas of the concept of the development of Russian mathematical education, one of which is the idea of using information technologies in mathematical education as a basis for advancing at the world level. The article introduces mathematics teachers to the possibilities of using interactive simulators for the formation of students ' computational skills in the process of organizing oral and written counting in a playful form. Methodological recommendations on the topic "Actions with decimals" are given. The article is addressed to teachers and students of pedagogical universities, methodologists, mathematics teachers.
El español hablado en Sevilla Corpus PRESEEA-Sevilla. Vol II Hablantes de instrucción baja
Authors: Repede Doina
Published: December 2021

Este volumen recoge la transcripción de las entrevistas semidirigidas realizadas a 24 hablantes del sociolecto bajo, distribuidos según sexo y edad, y que forman parte del Corpus PRESEEA en la ciudad de Sevilla.
Four Decades Research on Higher Vocational Education: A Bibliometric Review
Authors: Abdullah Khairul Hafezad
Published: December 2021

Vocational education is seen as an integral part of the educational system, either at the school level or at a post-secondary level. It is indicated that vocational education has immensely influenced life and plays a vital role in evolving societies worldwide. Thus, analysing these scientific domains evolution and creation are essential. This study discusses the bibliometric review of scholarly research performed in higher vocational education in recent years. The study uses the Scopus database and a wide variety of bibliometric metrics, including publications, citations, and publishing patterns. A graphical visualisation of bibliographic details using the VOS viewer software is also presented. Results show that the number of studies covering this subject has fluctuated, with the highest number of publications being 65 in 2020. Often, by reviewing publications and research areas, it can be construed that higher vocational education research is diverse, including social sciences, computer science, and engineering. The bibliometric review conducted offers a rigorous and thorough view of higher vocational education research that may benefit higher vocational education practitioners and researchers keen on the pursuit of enhancing or discovering new knowledge in this field.
Room Borrowing Information System Website Based using PHP and MySQL with Waterfall Model
Authors: Oktaviana Doni , Hamid Mustofa Abi
Published: December 2021

Research by developing an information system is a research that aims to produce and develop an information service system design in the form of website-based rooms lending using PHP as a programming language and MySQL as a database that will be used at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa University in-room management as room loan, room loan schedule, room loan data, and room information. This study uses the waterfall development model, with 5 (five) stages of development including the stages of communication, planning, modelling, construction and deployment. This research used Alpha and Beta testing to 3 (three) media experts and 31 (thirty-one) users including 1 (one) admin and 30 (thirty) students. Data collection techniques using interview techniques, observation and dissemination of research instruments. With data analysis in the form of a feasibility test using a Likert scale instrument of 4 (four) assessment scores to media experts and respondents. The final product produced is a website for rooms loaning information system, by average score by media experts (Alpha Testing) of 71.6 with the "very feasible" category. The results of the feasibility test by users (Beta Testing) were 34.32 with the "very feasible" category. Therefore, it can be concluded that the website-based room loan information system is very feasible to use.
An evaluation of the use of investigations in a nurse-led rapid access chest pain clinic
Authors: Kwok Chun Shing , Jackson Debbie , Bennett Sadie , Tafuro Jacopo , Large Adrian , Mallen Christian D , Smith Dot-Morgan , Duckett Simon
Published: December 2021

Background/Aims

Chest pain is a common symptom, but its presentation and cause varies widely, making diagnosis a challenge. This study describes the authors' experience of a nurse-led rapid access chest pain clinic, and associated use of investigation and patient outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective service evaluation of patients referred to a nurse-led rapid access chest pain clinic was performed. Routinely-recorded data on patient demographics, symptoms, comorbidities, medications, cardiology clinic attendances and investigations were collected. In addition, admissions to accident and emergency or inpatient, death, acute myocardial infarction and percutaneous coronary intervention within 1 year were obtained.

Results

A total of 279 patients were included in the evaluation between January and February 2019. Chest pain was present as a symptom in 92.8% of patients, while 37.6% of patients had shortness of breath. Only 16.8% had typical angina, while 34.4% had atypical angina. The majority (93.9%) had two or fewer cardiology clinic appointments, the most common imaging investigation used was computed tomography coronary angiogram (47.3%) and 8.2% had a stress echocardiogram or invasive angiogram. Approximately one in five patients had a hospital admission within 1 year. The mortality rate within 1 year was 1.4%, but were all non-cardiac causes. Only 3.6% underwent percutaneous coronary intervention and there was only one mortality.

Conclusions

This service evaluation shows that a nurse-led rapid access chest pain clinic can be safe, efficient and closely adhere to National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines. Many patients do not require unnecessary and potentially harmful investigations and revascularisation rates are low.
Microfluidic lab-on-a-chip characterization of nano- to microparticles suspensions by light extinction spectrometry
Authors: Onofri Fabrice R. A. , Rodriguez-Ruiz Isaac , Lamadie Fabrice
Published: December 2021

The analysis of nano- and microparticle suspensions with micro systems affords improved space–time yields, selectivity, reaction residence times and conversions capabilities. These capabilities are of primary importance in various fields of research and industry. The few microfluidic lab-on-a-chip approaches that have been developed are essentially designed to analyse fluid phases or involve the use of benchtop particle sizing instruments. We report a novel microscale approach to characterize the particle size distribution and absolute concentration of colloidal suspensions. The method is based on a photonic lab-on-a-chip with three scale-specific detection channels to record simultaneous light extinction spectra. Experiments carried out on particle standards with sizes ranging from 30 nm to 0.5 µm and volume concentrations of 1 to 1000ppm, clearly demonstrate the value and potential of the proposed method.
Object localization and tracking in three dimensions by space-to-time encoding
Authors: Lev Ofer Bar , Stern Adrian , August Isaac
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we present a novel method for measuring the location and estimating the dynamics of fast-moving small objects in free space. The proposed 3D localization method is realized by a space-to-time optical transform and measurement of time-of-flight. We present the underlying physical and mathematical model of the method and provide an example based on a simple configuration. In the simplest mode, the method is implemented by two plane mirrors, a spherical light pulse illuminator, and a single fast response photodetector. The 3D spatial information is retrieved from the temporal measurements by solving an inverse problem that uses a sparse approximation of the scene. System simulation shows the ability to track fast small objects that are moving in space using only a single time-resolved detector.
Single-shot analysis of amplified correlated light
Authors: Meir Sara , Klein Avi , Duadi Hamootal , Cohen Eliahu , Fridman Moti
Published: December 2021

Correlated beams are important in classical and quantum communication as well as other technologies. However, classical amplifiers, which are essential for long transmission of correlated beams, degrade the correlation due to noise and due to the amplifier spectral response. We measure, with a novel high resolution single-shot measurement system, the impact of amplifiers on correlated beams. We develop a new method for analyzing the correlation between the signal and idler beams by choosing peaks in the pulses according to their power levels. We demonstrate how to tailor the correlation after the amplifier to obtain either higher or lower correlation. Our research may influence the future use of amplifiers in non-classical communication systems as well as the transmission of quantum information over long distances.
Direct construction of an optical linear transform and its application on optical complex data generation
Authors: Wu Lin , Zhang Ziyang
Published: December 2021

Optical computing technique has emerged as a promising platform for highly parallel data processing. In most optical computing architectures, optical linear transform is the basic composition, which is commonly designed by the established deep learning-based methods or general-purpose optimizers. There still lacks in-depth study to construct a solver targeted at optical linear transform applications. In this work, we propose a new algorithm that solves the transformation matrix of a linear optical system consisting of cascaded phase masks directly and show that its efficiency is significantly higher than those common solvers. As a direct application of this method, we can create target array of optical beams even with a single layer of phase mask in the experiment. The amplitude and phase of each beam in the array can be controlled independently without affecting each other. The optical system requires only one light source and one programmable phase mask. This setup can be readily incorporated into most current optical computing configurations. Our method may find broad applications in classic and quantum optical information processing.
Mid-long wavelength infrared absorptance of hyperdoped silicon via femtosecond laser microstructuring
Authors: Sun Haibin , Liu Xiaolong , Zhao Li , Jia Jianxin , Jiang Changhui , Xiao Jiamin , Chen Yuwei , Xu Long , Duan Zhiyong , Rao Peng , Sun Shengli
Published: December 2021

Hyperdoped silicon (hSi) fabricated via femtosecond laser irradiation has emerged as a promising photoelectric material with strong broadband infrared (IR) absorption. In this work, we measured the optical absorptance of the hSi in the wavelength of 0.3–16.7 µm. Unlike the near to mid wavelength IR absorption, the mid-long wavelength IR (M–LWIR) absorption is heavily dependent on the surface morphology and the dopants. Furthermore, calculations based on coherent potential approximation (CPA) reveal the origin of free carrier absorption, which plays an important role in the M–LWIR absorption. As a result, a more comprehensive picture of the IR absorption mechanism is drawn for the optoelectronic applications of the hSi.
High-efficiency mode-locked fiber laser with a switchable oscillating transverse mode in an all few-mode fiber linear cavity
Authors: Lv Jialiang , Dai Chuansheng , Li Hongxun , Ma Xuexiao , Lin Jiaqiang , Gu Chun , Yao Peijun , Xu Lixin , Zhan Qiwen
Published: December 2021

In this paper, an oscillating transverse mode switchable mode-locked fiber laser with a few-mode fiber linear cavity is proposed and demonstrated. An artificial filter is used to realize the mode gain modulation of the laser. The stable mode-locked pulsed operation with switchable wavelength is easily achieved and the oscillating transverse mode can be flexibly switched between the fundamental mode and high-order mode by adjusting the polarization controller. The mode-locked fiber laser directly oscillates in the high-order mode stably with a slope efficiency of as high as 12%, and the corresponding operating wavelength, repetition rate as well as pulse duration are 1054.07 nm, 22.662 MHz, 31.5 ps, respectively. Besides, a cylindrical vector beam with a high mode purity of 98.6% is obtained by removing the degeneracy of the LP11 mode. This compact and high-efficiency mode-locked fiber laser operating in switchable transverse mode has the potential application for laser processing, particle trapping, bioimaging, and mode division multiplexing system.
Morphometric and Immunohistochemical Characteristics of the Adult Human Soft Palate Muscles
Authors: Mu Liancai , Chen Jingming , Nyirenda Themba , Li Jing , Sobotka Stanislaw , Benson Brian , Christopherson Mark , Sanders Ira
Published: December 2021

The soft palate is the only structure that reversibly separates the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Most species can eat and breathe at the same time. Humans cannot do this and malfunction of the soft palate may allow food to enter the lungs and cause fatal aspiration pneumonia. Speech is the most defining characteristic of humans and the soft palate, along with the larynx and tongue, plays the key roles. In addition, palatal muscles are involved in snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Considering the significance of the soft palate, its function is insufficiently understood. The objectives of this study were to document morphometric and immunohistochemical characteristics of adult human soft palate muscles, including fiber size, the fiber type, and myosin heavy chain (MyHC) composition for better understanding muscle functions. In this study, 15 soft palates were obtained from human autopsies. The palatal muscles were separated, cryosectioned, and stained using histological and immunohistochemical techniques. The results showed that there was a fast type II predominance in the musculus uvulae and palatopharyngeus and a slow type I predominance in the levator veli palatine. Approximately equal proportions of type I and type II fibers existed in both the palatoglossus and tensor veli palatine. Soft palate muscles also contained hybrid fibers and some specialized myofibers expressing slow-tonic and embryonic MyHC isoforms. These findings would help better understand muscle functions.