bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Board features and financial performance of Nigerian banks
Authors: Aliyu Abubakar Biu , Yahaya Onipe Adabenege , Mohammed Nma Ahmed
Published: October 2021

The presence of contradictory theories and unpredictable empirics calls for this paper to survey the outcome of board traits on financial operation of Nigeria banks. Financial performance of a firm is as important as the firm. Yet, very few studies have examined its impact by the board of directors in Nigeria. Data were obtained and perused using descriptive and inferential figures. Findings show that size of board has significant and constructive bearing on business piece. However, board composition takes undesirable significance. Meetings of board and gender failed to show significance. But, board member nationality and firm size show negative and significant effects. We added by exploring impacts of boards on financial performance. We asked firms to increase the size of the board and engage more independent directors and reduce the number of board diligence and size of the firm. The strong plus impact of board size and firm size on financial operations is an interesting result allowing for additional interrogation of why these behaviours.
Analysis of Comparative Efficiencies of Islamic Banks Across Nine South and Southeast Asian Countries.
Authors: Samad Abdus
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this paper is two folds: (i) obtain the overall technical efficiencies (TE), pure technical efficiencies (PTE), and scale efficiencies of the Islamic bank of the nine South and Southeast Asian (SSEA) countries during 2011-2016. (ii) compare them among the Islamic banks of the SSEA. The paper applied the Bootstrap Data Envelope Analysis (DEA) for obtaining three efficiencies in the production of loan and earning assets and found that the average TE, PTE, and SE of the Islamic banks in the region were 77.3 percent, 81.2 percent, and 95.3 percent respectively. The comparison of PTE efficiencies across the Islamic banks found: (i) the average TE of the Islamic banks of Malaysia was 81.9 percent and was higher than the average of other countries in the region; (ii) the average managerial efficiency (PTE) of the Islamic banks of Malaysia, excluding Brunei, Singapore, and Thailand, was 87.0 percent and was higher than the average of other countries in the region; (iii) among countries of the South and Southeast Asia, excluding Singapore and Maldives, the Islamic banks of Pakistan were more scale efficient than other countries in the region. The average scale efficiency of Pakistan’s Islamic banks was 96.8 percent. The underlying reason for the Islamic banks of Malaysia and Pakistan most efficient in the region is because they were the forerunners. They were the first countries to introduce Islamic banks. Secondly, the banks of counties survived through competition with conventional banks operating side by side in the Islamic banks. The policy prescription suggests that bank regulators allow the opening of more Islamic banks to compete with conventional banks for improving PTE efficiency.
The Mediating Effect of Firm Revenue on the Relationship Between Board Characteristics on Financial Distress of Deposit Taking Saccos in Nairobi County, Kenya
Authors: Munene Halldess nguta , Ndegwa James
Published: October 2021

The upper Echelons Theory reiterates the importance of top management in an organization and recognizes that the mangers make decisions that grow the entity. Before the establishment of this theory, the premise was that larger firms which drive high amounts of income, are capable of running themselves without failure. Although Organizations that command large amounts of income are deemed to be successful the upper echelons theory holds that these entities cannot be successful without proper management and guidance by top management where the board of directors in this case is considered as top management organ for SACCOs. Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs) have evolved over time from mobilizing savings and granting loans to become established entities that provide banking services to their customers. They require good governance to avoid the experience of financial distress. The current research was therefore aimed at establishing the influence of firm revenue on the relationship between board characteristics and financial distress of deposit taking SACCOs in Nairobi County. Large entities command more revenue as compared to small firms. Board Characteristics is of importance to this study because it influences Corporate Governance which according to previous research has shown that the practice helps revolutionize performance of various institutions. The study is guided by upper echelons theory which reiterates the importance of top management. Descriptive research design was adopted while Nairobi County was purposively chosen and a census was carried out on deposit taking SACCOs in the county. Secondary data was collected from SASRA using a data collection sheet and a panel data analysis performed using STATA software and findings were presented using tables. The study concluded that firm revenue does not mediate the relationship between board characteristics and financial distress of Deposit Taking SACCOs. Though firm revenue should be enhanced, governance should be improved since it remains a critical success factor in alleviation of financial distress.
Analysis of the Related Party Transactions in terms of managerial and financial issues for the Kenyan Savings and Credit Cooperatives
Authors: Munene Halldess nguta , Mugambi Ken
Published: October 2021

Related party transactions are a key factor to the sustainability of Savings and Credit Cooperatives (SACCOs). In view of this fact, loans to directors and staff are viewed as a factor which can greatly influence savings and credit cooperatives into either falling into financial distress or helping them to remain a float and become financially stable entities. The stakeholder theory holds that entities should be managed a manner that will satisfy every stakeholder. The stewardship theory reiterates that managers have the organisation at heart and can it to profitability as if it were their own. However approval of loans and other transactions to managers and staff, may not positively impact the entity. This study was designed to establish the effect of related party transactions on the relationship between board characteristics and financial distress of deposit taking SACCOs in Nairobi County. We applied Descriptive research design on Deposit taking SACCOs in Nairobi County which was identified purposively while a census was conceded for all deposit taking SACCOs in the county. We obtained secondary data from SASRA using a data collection sheet after which we performed panel data analysis by use of STATA software. Findings were presented using tables. The study concluded that related party transactions influenced the relationship between board characteristics and financial distress of Deposit Taking SACCOs in Nairobi County. Related party transactions can be an avenue of causing financial distress and should be kept as low as possible. The regulator should come up with a tool based on Altman’s Z score models to predict financial distress in SACCOs in order to offer timely advice to alleviate more distress and consequent bankruptcy which may lead to closure of SACCOs. Another research may be carried out to establish other factors causing financial distress and how to turn around the SACCOs already in distress.
Analysis of financial literacy and its effects on financial inclusion in Uganda
Authors: Kasozi Jason , Makina Daniel
Published: October 2021

The paper investigates whether financial literacy influences financial inclusion in Uganda on the premise that there are currently few to no studies that investigate this causality and the general lack of consensus on an appropriate measure for financial literacy. It uses data from the FinScope (2018) consumer survey on Uganda and applies Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to construct a composite financial literacy index of the adult bankable population (16 years and older). The index is then regressed - alongside other demand-side control variables, against a measure of financial inclusion using logistic models. Our measure of financial literacy significantly and positively affects financial inclusion in Uganda even in the presence of variables like age, gender, income, and education. Individuals who make financial ends meet, plan for their financial future welfare, seek financial advice, and are receptive towards technology, are 'ceteris paribus', more likely to be financially included than not. Technology and mobile money adoption enhance financial inclusion while more men are financially included than women. While the dataset is limited to demand-side variables of Uganda and cannot be generalised, comparative cross-country studies with robust datasets are needed to provide further insights. The paper advances a novel approach for measuring financial literacy for developing economies while contributing to efforts to standardize an international measure. It also provides empirical insights to support the notion that financial literacy should be addressed more holistically and recommends this approach for improving financial inclusion in Uganda and globally.
The nexus between bond liquidity, stock liquidity and foreign portfolio investment
Authors: Marozva Godfrey , Makoni Patricia Lindelwa
Published: October 2021

The purpose of this article was to assess the impact of financial market liquidity on international capital flows in emerging markets. Specifically, the research investigates the effect of bond market liquidity and stock market liquidity on foreign portfolio investments using data for five emerging African countries, being Egypt, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria and South Africa, for the period 2000 to 2020. The data was sourced from the Bloomberg and World Bank (WDI) databases. Panel data analysis (fixed effects model) was undertaken using three different liquidity measures: the effective spread; Amihud’s (2002) illiquidity measure; and market impact as measured by trading volume. Our findings revealed mixed results. It was found that stock market liquidity attracted foreign portfolio investments. Although bond market liquidity, as measured by the volume of trade, promoted foreign portfolio investment, it was different for the effective spread, as the higher the effective spread, the higher the inward FPI flows, and vice versa. Results on the effects of the bond effective spread on FPI show that as long as the bonds are above the investable grade, investors are not discouraged by the cost of trading. Our findings thus confirm that FPI inflows are predisposed on liquid and efficient host country financial markets. Further, the entrance of foreign investors in the host country’s domestic financial markets, leads to the enhancing of liquidity in the local market, thus increasing risk sharing between local and foreign investors.
SME Resilience to Covid-19
Authors: Ahmed Eltigani , Kilika James , Gakenia Clare
Published: October 2021

The theory of dynamic resource orchestration explains the differentiated response of homogeneous ecosystem organizations to systemic disruptive shocks. The Covid-19 precautionary measures in Kenya have exempted some essential service providers and government agencies, resulting in a differentiated Covid-19 impact across the national SMEs landscape. This article adopted an extractive thematic analysis technique to draw insights from in-depth interviews and discussions with owners and managers of 6 broad-range SMEs considered non-essential services providers excluded from the Covid-19 cessation of movement waiver. The article advanced insights on SMEs' resilience through dynamic resource orchestration capability. It sought to establish whether the possession and orchestration of dynamic resources capabilities differentiated highly resilient SMEs from non-resilient ones. The article identified business diversification, slack finance, intra-stakeholder collaboration, self-reinvention, positive psychology, technology leverage, and cost management as precursory resilience agents within Kenyan SMEs. Research gaps were identified, and recommendations for future research were proposed.
A lightweight magnetic gripper for an aerial delivery vehicle: design and
applications
Authors: Sutera Giuseppe , Guastella Dario Calogero , Muscato Giovanni
Published: October 2021

In recent years, drones have become widely used in many fields.
Their vertical flight capability makes these systems suitable for carrying
out a variety of tasks. In this paper, the delivery service they provide is
analysed. The delivery of goods quickly and to remote areas is a relevant
application scenario; however, the systems proposed in the literature use
electromagnets, which affect the duration of the flight. In addition, these
devices are heavy and suffer from high energy consumption, which reduces the
maximum transportable payload. This study proposes a new lightweight
magnetic plate composed of permanent magnets, capable of collecting and
positioning any object as long as it has a ferromagnetic surface on the top.
This plate was developed for the Mohamed Bin Zayed International Robotics
Challenge 2020, an international robotics competition for multi-robot
systems. Challenge two of this competition required a drone capable of
picking up different types of bricks and assembling them to build a wall
according to an assigned pattern. The bricks were of different colours and
sizes, with weights ranging from 1 to 2 kg. In light of this, it was
concluded that weight was the most relevant specification to consider in
drone design.
Aeronautic pilot training and augmented reality
Authors: Füchter Simone Keller , Schlichting Mário Sérgio , Salazar George
Published: October 2021

A pre-flight checklist requires in-depth
technical knowledge of the aircraft and its dashboard, avionics,
instruments, functions, and cabin layout. The student in training to be a
pilot or advanced pilot, to obtain an updated certification, must know very
thoroughly each instrument and its position on the flight panel. Every
second spent searching for the location of an instrument, switch or
indicator can waste time, resulting in a poor start-up procedure and
possibly a safety hazard. The objective of this research was to obtain
preliminary data to determine if the use of AR  as a human interface for
training can help pilots improve their skills and help them learn new flight
panel layouts of different aircraft. The methodology used was Human-Centered
Design (HCD) which is a multidisciplinary process that involves many actors
who collaborate on design skills, including people who belong to this
process such as flight instructors, students, and pilots. A mobile/tablet
application prototype was created with enough detail of a flight panel of a
Cessna150, an aircraft used in training flights at the Santa Catarina
Aeroclub. The tests were applied in Brazil and the results showed a good
response and acceptance from the users.
Analysis of the mathematical modelling of a static expansion
system
Authors: Villamizar Mora Carlos Mauricio , Duarte Franco Jonathan Javier , Manrique Moreno Victor Jose , García Sánchez Carlos Eduardo
Published: October 2021

Static expansion systems are used to generate pressures in medium and
high vacuum and are used in the calibration of absolute pressure meters in
these pressure ranges. In the present study, the suitability of different
models to represent the final pressures in a static expansion system with
two tanks is analysed. It is concluded that the use of the ideal gas model
is adequate in most simulated conditions, while the assumption that the
residual pressure is zero before expansion presents problems under certain
conditions. An uncertainty analysis of the process is carried out, which
leads to evidence of the high importance of uncertainty in a first expansion
over subsequent expansion processes. Finally, an analysis of the expansion
system based on uncertainty is carried out to estimate the effect of the
metrological characteristics of the measurements of the input quantities.
Said design process can make it possible to determine a set of restrictions
on the uncertainties of the input quantities.
Analysing and simulating electronic devices as antennas
Authors: Erdosy Daniel , Bodolai Tamás , Váradiné Szarka Angéla
Published: October 2021

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is getting
more and more interest with the ever-increasing adoption of electronic
devices. EMC must be planned, calculated, simulated, and measured; this is
necessary to ensure that the device can work in the environment of other
devices and does not disturb other devices through undesired interference.
In complex devices, simulation methods due to the large number of elements
and complicated operations can be extremely costly and time consuming. We
should consider how is it possible to reduce these costs, for example with
simplifying our simulation terminology. This paper explains a general theory
about using pre-measured EMC properties in simulation to predict how a
complex system (containing many devices) will work. This theory is about how
different radiated electromagnetic waves affect other devices. EMC standards
have been developed to test and limit unintentional coupling to and from
electronic devices (interference), but not developed to deal with more
devices crowded in a smaller environment. If we handle the different devices
as antennas, in the simulation environment we must not deal with their
internal structure and operation (unless we need information of their
internal structure). In this way, simulation time can be drastically
reduced.
Effect of Sequential Intravenous and Oral Tranexamic Acid on Hemoglobin Drop After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Chang Moon Jong , Shin Joung Youp , Yoon Chan , Kim Tae Woo , Chang Chong Bum , Kang Seung-Baik
Published: October 2021

Background:

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is typically discontinued on the day of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, bleeding may persist for several days. We sought to determine whether sequential administration of intravenous (IV) and oral TXA could reduce hemoglobin (Hb) drop more than IV TXA alone. We also wanted to determine whether the use of additional oral TXA increased the rate of complications of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE).

Methods:

This prospective, randomized controlled trial included 141 patients. We compared the Hb drop, estimated blood loss (EBL), and transfusion rate of patients receiving IV TXA alone (group IV, n = 48) to those of patients who received IV TXA followed by oral TXA for 2 days (group 2D, n = 46) or 5 days (group 5D, n = 47). IV TXA was administered 10 minutes prior to the tourniquet release and 3 hours after the first IV TXA administration. Computed tomography (CT) was performed on postoperative day 6 to identify radiographic evidence of DVT. We also assessed the prevalence of symptomatic DVT and PE.

Results:

There were no differences in maximal Hb drop, Hb drops measured at each time point, EBL, or transfusion rate among the 3 groups. The mean maximal Hb drop was 3.5 g/dL in group IV, 3.2 g/dL in group 2D, and 3.4 g/dL in group 5D. The mean EBL was 999.9 mL in group IV, 886.4 mL in group 2D, and 972.5 mL in group 5D. One patient in each group required a transfusion. There were no differences in the prevalence of radiographic evidence of DVT or symptomatic DVT. Symptomatic DVT occurred in 3 patients in group IV and 2 patients in group 5D. One patient in group IV developed a symptomatic PE.

Conclusions:

Although there was no increase in the complication rate, the sequential administration of oral TXA for up to 5 days after IV TXA did not decrease Hb drop. Therefore, our findings suggest that sequential use of oral and IV TXA is not recommended.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
OOIMMURATION: ENHANCED FOSSIL PRESERVATION BY OOIDS, WITH EXAMPLES FROM THE MIDDLE JURASSIC OF SOUTHWESTERN UTAH, USA
Authors: WILSON MARK A. , COOKE ANNA M. , JUDGE SHELLEY A. , PALMER TIMOTHY J.
Published: October 2021

Ooimmuration is here defined as a taphonomic process by which fossils are preserved within ooids. It is a form of lithoimmuration, although depending on the role of microbes in the formation of the ooid cortex, ooimmuration can also be considered a type of bioimmuration. Fossils enclosed within ooids are protected from bioerosion as well as the abrasion common in energetic depositional environments such as ooid shoals. Many taxa in some fossil assemblages may be known only because they were ooimmured. We describe as examples of ooimmuration fossils preserved in an oolite from the Middle Jurassic (Bajocian) Carmel Formation in southwestern Utah.
Liquidity, Corporate Governance and Firm Performance: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Nguyen Ngoc Phuong Anh , Dao Thi Thanh Binh
Published: October 2021

Our study investigates the interlink between liquidity, corporate governance and firm value with the adoption of meta-analysis. The final sample consists of 428 studies extracted from 55 papers, covering 632,196 firm-year observations in a worldwide scope. The diversity in data is believed to reduce possible homogeneity due to regional or time period concentration.
Using random-effects model, it is reported that both illiquidity factors (Spread and Amihud illiquidity) can significantly worsen the performance of a firm, while the corporate governance – firm value connection is significantly positive via three out of four factors (Corporate governance index, Board size and Institutional ownership). Besides studying the overall relationship direction, the paper also looks into its heterogeneity. The existence of heterogeneity is confirmed in all liquidity – firm value and governance – firm value relationship. The running of meta-regression indicates that both illiquidity factors are significantly moderated by most of the examined paper characteristics, whilst only two out of four corporate governance indicators (Corporate governance index and Institutional ownership) are significantly altered.
Maternal Serum Proteomic Profiles of Pregnant Women With Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Gutaj Paweł , Matysiak Jan , Matuszewska Eliza , Jaskiewicz Katarzyna , Kamińska Dorota , Światły-Błaszkiewicz Agata , Szczapa Tomasz , Kalantarova Anastasia , Gajecka Marzena , Wender-Ozegowska Ewa
Published: October 2021

Despite improvement in the care of diabetes over the years, pregnancy complicated by type 1 diabetes (T1DM) is still associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. To date, proteomics studies have been conducted to identify T1DM biomarkers in non-pregnant women, however, no studies included T1DM pregnant women. In this study serum proteomic profiling was conducted in pregnant women with T1DM in the late third trimester. Serum samples were collected from 40 diabetic women and 38 healthy controls within 3 days before delivery at term pregnancy. Significant differences between serum proteomic patterns were revealed, showing discriminative peaks for complement C3 and C4-A, kininogen-1, and fibrinogen alpha chain. Quantification of selected discriminative proteins by ELISA kits was also performed. The serum concentration of kininogen-1 was significantly lower in women with T1DM than in controls. There were no significant differences in serum concentrations of complement C3 and complement C4-A between study groups. These data indicate that pregnant women with T1DM have a distinct proteomic profile involving proteins in the coagulation and inflammatory pathways. However, their utility as biomarkers of pregnancy complications in women with T1DM warrants further investigation.
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Phase III Trial On The Efficacy and Safety of Tocilizumab in Patients With Colchicine-Resistant or -Intolerant Familial Mediterranean Fever
Authors: Koga Tomohiro , Sato Shuntaro , Hagimori Naoko , Yamamoto Hiroshi , Ishimura Masataka , Yasumi Takahiro , Kirino Yohei , Ikeda Kei , Yachie Akihiro , Migita Kiyoshi , Kishida Dai , Atsumi Tatsuya , Kawakami Atsushi
Published: October 2021

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of tocilizumab (TCZ), an interleukin 6 receptor monoclonal antibody, in patients with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF).
Methods

We performed a double-blind, randomized, parallel-group trial, followed by an open-label extension trial, in patients with colchicine-resistant or -intolerant FMF (crFMF). Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive TCZ (162 mg every week) or placebo, administered subcutaneously, for 24 weeks. Rescue treatment was allowed if the rescue criteria were met. The primary endpoint was the number of fever attacks over the 24 weeks of treatment. Secondary endpoints included the frequency of accompanying symptoms during attacks, serum CRP and SAA values, and adverse events (AEs). The open-label extension study evaluated the long-term safety and efficacy of TCZ in patients who had completed the preceding study.
Results

We randomly assigned 23 patients to either TCZ (n = 11) or placebo (n = 12). The TCZ–placebo rate ratios were 0.691 (95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.189–2.531; P = 0.577) for the fever attacks, based on the group rates per week. The recurrence of attacks was significantly lower in the TCZ group (hazard ratio = 0.457; 95% CI, 0.240–0.869). Fever attacks, accompanying symptoms, serum CRP and SAA values were controlled in most of the patients who received long-term TCZ. In these trials, the numbers and severity of AEs did not differ between groups.
Conclusion

Although a primary endpoint was not met in the preceding trial, long-term administration of TCZ showed stable efficacy and safety for patients with crFMF.
Bank Climate Actions and their Implications for the Coal Power Sector: Indonesia
Authors: Chan Hoy-Yen , Merdekawati Monika , Suryadi Beni
Published: October 2021

This policy brief highlights three key messages, i.e. 1) banks are diversifying into climate-friendly investment portfolios, 2) raising capital for coal-fired power plants will grow more difficult over time or lose financial support from present lenders and 3) Indonesia could turn capital raising challenges into opportunities for decarbonizing its power sector.
A Longer Duration from Injury to Surgery is Associated with Preoperative Deterioration of an Isolated Meniscal Tear in Patients Aged 40 Years or Older
Authors: Yokoe Takuji , Tajima Takuya , Yamaguchi Nami , Morita Yudai , Chosa Etsuo
Published: October 2021

Background: It remains unclear what percentage of isolated meniscal tears deteriorates before surgery, especially in older patients. We aimed to evaluate the preoperative deterioration of an isolated meniscal tear in patients aged 40 years or older, and whether time from injury to surgery is associated with worsening of a meniscal tear.Methods: Patients aged 40 years or older who underwent arthroscopic surgery for isolated meniscal tear between 2014 and 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. The diagnostic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings and arthroscopic findings were compared to evaluate the deterioration of meniscal tears. Predictors of the development of meniscal tears; patient demographic factors, duration from injury to surgery (injury to MRI and MRI to surgery), and image findings were assessed. Results: A total of 58 patients (58 knees) were included (mean age, 55.9 ± 8.5 years; male/female, 31/27). An isolated meniscal tear deteriorated in 28 (48.3%). In comparison of patients with and without deteriorated meniscal tear, significant differences were found in the MRI grade of meniscal tear (p = 0.03), duration from injury to MRI (164.2 ± 167.9 vs. 45.2 ± 48.7 days, p < 0.001), and from MRI to surgery (148.8 ± 91.1 vs. 67.6 ± 56.7 days, p < 0.001). A multivariate regression analysis showed that the duration from injury to MRI (odds ratio [OR], 1.03; p < 0.001) and from MRI to surgery (OR, 1.02; p < 0.001) were independent predictors of worsening of a meniscal tear. Conclusions: Approximately 50% of isolated meniscal tears deteriorated preoperatively in patients aged 40 years or older. The duration from injury to MRI and from MRI to surgery were independent predictors of the preoperative worsening of an isolated meniscal tear in this cohort.
Evaluating the Damage Content of Karbandi Using Frequency Domain Analysis (Case Study: Timche Haj-Mohammad-Qoli of Tabriz Historic Bazaar)
Authors: Ahani Elshan , Ahani Ali
Published: October 2021

In this study, an alternate method of evaluating structural systems, especially for the sensitive structures with historical importance by applying Fourier Transform (FT) to the damage ratio of time history outcome in the frequency domain has been introduced. The concept of damage content (DC) regarding the mechanical characteristics of the used material, including plastic strain, failure plane, and ultimate load-bearing capacity, along with drift value, record selection criteria, and architectural aspects, have been employed. Due to its valuable aesthetic and architectural view, Timche Haj-Mohammad-Qoli of Tabriz Historic Bazaar, one of the traditional covered spaces with the complicated configuration of spatial masonry intersecting arches, was selected for the assessment in the current study. The required experimental samples for obtaining the mechanical properties and relevant geometrical measurements to prepare the numerical model of the structure obtained. The strong ground motions according to seismological and geological characteristics of the construction site selected. The records with different durations were merged by Fourier Transform (FT) and Damage Content (DC) analysis. According to the outcomes, the damage state of the structure due to the imposed strong motion at every stage of the lateral loading from the failure initiation to the final collapse was observable. As a direct outcome of this study, the vulnerability concerning the near-field earthquakes is more tangible than far-field earthquakes. The provided methodology could have proper use in future similar studies for evaluating the performance of the structures.
Development and Validation of a New Clinical Prognosis Prediction Model for Metabolism in Cancer Patients
Authors: Tang Huazhen , Yang Zhenpeng , Sun Xibo , Lu Shuai , Wang Bing , Zhao Wanni , Zhang Bingdong , Wang Xin , Zhang Zhanzhi , Jia Pingping , Wen Lina , Deng Li , Gao Nana , Rao Benqiang , Shi Hanping
Published: October 2021

Background: Metabolic reprogramming has emerged as an important feature of cancer, and the metabolism-related indexes are closely related to prognosis. Therefore, we develop and verify a large sample clinical prediction model to predict the prognosis in patients with solid tumors.Methods: This retrospective analysis was conducted on a primary cohort of 5006 patients with solid tumor from INSCOC database. A total of 1720 cancer patients treated at the Fujian Cancer Hospital was used to form the validation cohort. A multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to test the independent significance of different factors and then establish the model. The prediction model was simplified into a nomogram to predict the 1-, 3-and 5-year OS rates. To determine the discriminatory and predictive accuracy capacity of the model, the C-index and calibration curve were evaluated.Results: Multivariate analysis indicated that age, smoking history, tumor stage, tumor metastasis, PGSGA score, FBG, NLR, ALB, TG, and HDL-C were independent factors. Moreover, the nomogram combining the score and clinical parameters can predict patient survival accurately.Conclusions: Clinical indicators based on metabolism reprogramming coould well fit and predict the prognosis of cancer patients, and could provide assistance for the individual treatment of tumor patients in the clinic.
Environmental costs of political instability in Pakistan: policy options for clean energy consumption and environment
Authors: Sohail Muhammad Tayyab , Majeed Muhammad Tariq , Shaikh Parvez Ahmed , Andlib Zubaria
Published: October 2021

Using time-series data of Pakistan from 1990 to 2019, this study explores the asymmetric effects of political instability on clean energy consumption and CO2 emissions. The results from the traditional ARDL model show that political stability lessens environmental damage by reducing CO2 emissions in the long run. However, when we used the nonlinear ARDL approach we found that political instability reduces the consumption of clean energy but also leads to damage environmental quality in long run in Pakistan. While political stability increases the consumption of clean energy but also helps to improve environmental quality in the short run in Pakistan. Thus, macroeconomic policies to promote expansion in clean energy consumption will directly stimulate green economic growth and environmental quality.
The Relation Between Prenatal Stress, Overweight and Obesity in Children Diagnosed According to BMI and Percentage Fat Tissue.
Authors: Bryl Ewa , Hanć Tomasz , Szcześniewska Paula , Dutkiewicz Agata , Dmitrzak-Węglarz Monika , Agnieszka Słopień
Published: October 2021

BackgroundOverweight and obesity in children have a negative impact not only on the physical development but also on the mental health of children. That is why researchers are constantly looking for possible causes of such high frequency of this phenomenon. One of the environmental factors contributing to abnormal weight changes in children may be maternal exposure to adverse environmental factors during pregnancy, which in previous studies led to inconclusive results showing both overweight and obesity and underweight in children. The aim of the study was to examine the relationship between prenatal stress and body weight status. MethodsThe cohort study included 254 girls and 276 boys. Information on prenatal stress was collected with a questionnaire completed by a parent/guardian of a 6–12-year-old child. We assessed the body mass status on the basis of BMI according to the IOTF criterion and on the basis of body fat according to McCarthy criterion. ResultsThe results of our study show that the prenatal stress was related to increased risk of overweight (OR 2.14, 95%CI: 1.25-3.65) diagnosed on the basis of body fat cut-off points, but not when the BMI was a diagnostic criterion (OR 1.03, 95%CI:0.58-1.83). ConclusionThe method of diagnosis based on the fat content appears to be an indicator of the occurrence of abnormalities in body composition due to prenatal stress more sensitive than that based on the BMI. Level of evidence: Evidence obtained from well-designed cohort or case-control analytic studies
New Laccase-Mediated System Utilized for Bio-Discoloration of Indigo-Dyed Denim Fabrics
Authors: Sarafpour Mojtaba , Alihosseini Farzaneh , Bayat Maryam
Published: October 2021

In this study, indigo-dyed denim fabric was decolorized by washing and printing with separate and simultaneous applications of laccase enzyme, sodium hydrosulfite, and cellulase enzyme. In this regard, the surface reflectance and color coordinates of the discolored fabrics were analyzed, and SEM photographs of the treated fabrics were prepared to analyze their surfaces. Finally, the effects of the discoloration process and materials on various parameters of the treated samples were investigated, including moisture content, creaserecovery angle, air permeability, and abrasion resistance. The color experiments showed that the discoloration mechanism with the combined use of laccase enzyme, sodium hydrosulfite, and cellulose enzyme had a significant effect on the improvement of the lightness (L*) of the samples, as the lightness of the treated samples was improved by 101.18 percent and 55.79 percent in both printing and washing, respectively. Furthermore, examination of specimen color coordinates revealed that the hue of the treated samples was changed to blue and green, and the purity of color (C*) was improved. The increased moisture content and air permeability of the treated specimens suggested that the comfort of the jeans clothing provided by these treatment methods had improved. As a result, it should be noted that the mediating action of sodium hydrosulfite was significantly influential for discoloration of denim with the laccase enzyme.
BDE-209 Becreases the Efficacy of Dacarbazine Treatment for Melanoma in C57BL/6 Mice
Authors: Manuitt-Brito Patricia , de Souza Tugstênio Lima , Neto Francisco Filipak , Leão-Buchir Joelma , Biscaia Stellee Marcela Petris , Trindade Edvaldo da Silva , Ribeiro Ciro Alberto de Oliveira
Published: October 2021

Humans are widely exposed to environmental chemical toxicants potentially related to disease susceptibility. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) present a proven risk associated with cancer, but no studies are related with the tumor progression. The decabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-209) is a flame-retardant detected in human plasma, breast milk and umbilical cord. Melanoma is a skin cancer with high metastatic potential and poor response to therapies. The use of alkylating agents such as dacarbazine is still a common protocol for the treatment of melanoma, mainly in Brazilian Public Health Care System. Recently, we reported the role of BDE-209 on the incidence of melanoma metastasis in different organs of mice after inoculation of B16-F10 cells. In the current study, we describe the effects of BDE-209 on dacarbazine treatment for melanoma. Adult male and female C57BL6 mice were exposed to BDE-209 for 45 days, inoculated with B16-F10 cells and treated with dacarbazine for 21 days (five doses of 40 mg.kg− 1). At 66th day, the animals were euthanized, and the blood, lung, liver, kidney and brain were sampled for hematological, biochemical and metastasis counting analyses. The results showed a decrease of lung metastases in animals treated with dacarbazine and a significant increase in mice previously exposed to BDE-209. Foremost, BDE-209 impaired dacarbazine treatment. These findings demonstrate the effect of BDE-209 and the decreased efficacy of dacarbazine treatment, favoring cancer progression and affecting the disease prognosis.
Chemical Versus Mechanical and Chemical Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Neurocritically Ill Patients: A Cohort Study
Authors: Alshaya Abdulrahman , Alyahya Hayaa , Alzoman Reema , Faden Rawa , Alshaya Omar , AlSulaiman Khalid , Alanazi Faisal , Aldekhyl Sara
Published: October 2021

Background: Patients admitted with neurocritical illness are presumed to be at high risk for venothromboembolism (VTE). The administration of chemical and/or mechanical VTE prophylaxis is a common practice in critically ill patients. Recent data did not show a significant difference in the incidence of VTE between chemical compared to chemical and mechanical VTE prophylaxis in critically ill patients with limited data in neurocritically ill population. The objective of this study is to investigate the incidence of VTE between chemical alone compared to chemical and mechanical VTE prophylaxis in neurocritically ill patients. This was a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary teaching hospital. Data were obtained from electronic medical records for all patients admitted with neurocritical illness from 1/1/2016 to 1/12/2020. Patients were excluded if they did not receive VTE prophylaxis during admission or were younger than 18 YO. Major outcomes were symptomatic VTE based on clinical and radiological findings, intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS), and hospital LOS. Minor outcomes included severe or life-threatening bleeding based on GUSTO criteria, and mortality at 28-days. Results: Two hundred and twelve patients were included in this study. Patients did not have any significant differences in their baseline characteristics. The incidence of VTE was not different between chemical only compared to chemical and mechanical VTE prophylaxis groups (19/166 (11.3%) vs 7/46 (15.2%); P=0.49. No difference between groups in their ICU LOS 6 [3 – 16.2] vs 6.5 [3 – 19]; P=0.52, nor their mortality (18/166 (10.7%) vs 3/46 (6.5%); P=0.38, respectively. Less bleeding events were seen in the chemical prophylaxis group compared to the combined VTE prophylaxis group (19/166 (11.3%) vs 12/46 (26.1%); P= 0.013. Conclusion: Our findings observed no difference between the administration of chemical prophylaxis alone compared to combined VTE prophylaxis in neurocritically ill patients. More data are needed to confirm this finding with more robust methodology.
Vanadium Extraction from Korean Vanadiferous Titanomagnetite Ore Using Alkali Roasting: Evaluation of Optimal Conditions and Leaching Rate
Authors: kim Youngjae , Yoo Junsoo , Park Hyunsik , Jeon Ho-seok , Han Yosep
Published: October 2021

The extraction process of vanadium from vanadiferous titanomagnetite ore deposited in Korea was investigated by combining alkali roasting and water leaching processes. The effect of Na2CO3 addition on the efficiency with which the vanadium could be leached was investigated along with an X-ray diffraction analysis. When more than 30-wt% Na2CO3 was added at 1273 K, a vanadium leaching efficiency of approximately 70% was achieved. The minimum alkali-roasting temperature was determined to be 1273 K with the addition of 30-wt% Na2CO3. Thermodynamic calculations revealed that the formation of the liquidus phase of Na2CO3 enhanced the reaction between the vanadium in the concentrate and sodium, resulting in a higher leaching efficiency for vanadium being attained. The thermodynamic calculation results were indirectly supported by the characteristic temperature determination through hot-stage microscope analysis. After 30 min of thermal treatment, a leaching efficiency for vanadium of 75% was achieved, which remained constant as the thermal treatment time was increased. Finally, the effects of the leaching time and temperature on the efficiency with which vanadium and other impurities, namely, aluminum, silicon, and sodium, could be leached was analyzed by varying the leaching time. A higher leaching efficiency was attained at higher temperatures. The leaching rate of vanadium decreased considerably after 10–20 min and subsequently remained almost constant.
Baclofen-Associated Neurophysiologic Target Engagement Across Species in Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Jonak Carrie R. , Pedapati Ernest V. , Schmitt Lauren M. , Assad Samantha A. , Sandhu Manbir S. , DeStefano Lisa , Ethridge Lauren , Razak Khaleel A. , Sweeney John A. , Binder Devin K. , Erickson Craig A
Published: October 2021

Background: Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited form of neurodevelopmental disability. It is often characterized, especially in males, by intellectual disability, anxiety, repetitive behavior, social communication deficits, delayed language development and abnormal sensory processing. Recently, we identified electroencephalographic (EEG) biomarkers that are conserved between the mouse model of FXS (Fmr1 KO mice) and humans with FXS. Methods: In this report, we evaluate small molecule target engagement utilizing multielectrode array electrophysiology in the Fmr1 KO mouse and in humans with FXS. Neurophysiologic target engagement was evaluated using single doses of the GABAB selective agonist racemic baclofen (RBAC). Results: In Fmr1 KO mice and in humans with FXS, baclofen use was synchronously associated with suppression of elevated gamma power and increase in theta power at rest. In the Frm1 KO mice, a baclofen-associated improvement in auditory chirp synchronization was also noted. Conclusions: Overall, we noted synchronized target engagement of RBAC on resting state electrophysiology, in particular the reduction of aberrant high frequency gamma activity, across species in FXS. This finding holds promise for translational medicine approaches to drug development for FXS, synchronizing treatment study across species using well-established EEG biological markers in this field. Trial Registration: The human experiments are registered under NCT02998151.
The Expression of Interleukin-1β is Regulated by DNA Methylation in Microglia to Mediate Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction in Aged Mice
Authors: Gao Yin , Yang Li , Yang Xiu , Hao Jing-Ru , Shen Xiao-Ran , Wang Hu-Yi , Li Xu , Liu Yue-Ying , Liu Le , Tong Kun , You Yue , Chen Di-Shi , Sun Nan , Gao Can
Published: October 2021

Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a common postoperative complication in elderly individuals. Neuroinflammation is closely related to its occurrence. However, the exact molecular mechanism underlying this link is undetermined. This study aimed to establish a mouse model of POCD to explore the role of DNA methylation in regulating the expression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), which mediates the occurrence of POCD in aged mice. The POCD model was established by exploratory laparotomy and evaluated by novel object and Y-maze tests. We also assessed IL-1β production in the dorsal hippocampus and the expression of the DNA methylation-related proteins DNA methyltransferase 3a (DNMT3a), DNA methyltransferase 3b (DNMT3b), and methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2). Methylation specific PCR (MSP), methylated DNA immunoprecipitation (MeDIP) and DNA methylation sequencing in IL-1β promoter were used to explore the regulation of IL-1β by DNA methylation in this model. Finally, Golgi-Cox staining and Western blotting were used to further explore the role and potential mechanisms of IL-1β in POCD. Cognitive impairment was observed in aged but not adult mice. In aged mice, the microglia cells in the dorsal hippocampus were activated, while the DNA methylation in the IL-1β promoter was decreased. Interestingly, the global DNA methylation in the dorsal hippocampus was unchanged. IL-1β inhibition prevented surgery-induced cognitive decline and dysfunction of synaptic plasticity. Overall, these results indicated that DNA methylation regulation of IL-1β expression may be an important mechanism increasing the susceptibility to POCD.
A Prospective Interventional Study on LigaSureTM Haemorrhoidectomy as a Daycare Procedure
Authors:   Department of Surgery, Kassala Police Hospital, Kassala, Sudan, Elnaim Abdel Latif K , Musa Shareef ,   Department of Surgery, Kassala Police Hospital, Kassala, Sudan, Wong Michael Pak-Kai ,   Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia,   Department of Surgery, Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia, Sagap Ismail ,   Department of Surgery, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Published: October 2021

Objective: This study was designed as a prospective and interventional study that evaluated LigaSure™ haemorrhoidectomies with regional anaesthesia as a daycare procedure. Methods: Patients with third- and fourth-degree haemorrhoids were recruited from the clinic from January 2018 to December 2019. The procedure was performed as a day case under regional anaesthesia. Using a LigaSureTM device, excisional haemorrhoidectomies (Milligan– Morgan haemorrhoidectomy) were performed without sutures or an anal sponge. We evaluated wound bleeding, pain and urinary retention per daycare protocols. Results: A total of 264 patients were enrolled. There were 153 males (57.9%) with a median age of 30 years old (range 16 years old–80 years old). A total of 142 patients (54%) had thirddegree haemorrhoids, while the rest had fourth-degree haemorrhoids. The median operating time was 8 min (range 4 min–17 min) and minimal blood loss was observed. During follow-up, the complications were one case (0.3%) had anal stenosis, one case (0.3%) had minimal bleeding and one case (0.3%) had urine retention. Upon discharge, four patients (1.5%) required additional analgesia and another four (1.5%) developed post-spinal headaches. No incontinence was encountered. Conclusion: LigaSure™ excisional haemorrhoidectomy is a safe and effective daycare procedure with acceptable re-admission and complication rates.