bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Percutaneous kyphoplasty in treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture with kyphotic deformity: a compared study
Authors: Zhang Bi , Yang Xiaowei , Yao Wenye , Xu JiaQiang , Lai Qi , Zhou Song , Guo Runsheng , Zhang Bin
Published: September 2022

Background
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) for thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF) with kyphosis via unilateral versus bilateral approach.
Methods
All patients suffered OVCF with kyphosis were retrospectively reviewed. Of those, performed unilateral PKP or underwent bilateral PKP with random. The clinical and radiological data such as the correction of deformity, sagittal profle and record of the perioperative morbidity of the patients were analyzed.
Results
All patients (76 ± 3.6 years) were enrolled in this investigation, including 41 in the unilateral and 45 in the bilateral group. No significant difference in general data was detected between the two groups (p > 0.05). Howere, the operation time and cement amount 28.2 ± 3.4 min, 3.8 ± 0.6 ml in the unilateral group, while 50.1 ± 4.6 min, 5.4 ± 0.5 ml in the bilateral group, respectively (P < 0.05).In addition,The preoperative visual analog scale(VAS) and Vertebral local kyphosis angle were 8.8 ± 0.65 and 16.3 ± 6.5°compared to last follow-up 3.15 ± 0.78 and 14.26 ± 2.16°in unilateral group, while 8.5 ± 0.78 and 16.5 ± 7.1°compared to last follow-up 2.66 ± 0.86 and 13.81 ± 2.38°in bilateral group, respectively (P < 0.05). Furthermore, Oswestry Disablility Index (ODI) and prevertebral height ratio in both groups were significantly different before and after surgery, but no significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05).
Conclusions
Both bilateral and unilateral PKP are relatively safe and provide effective treatment for patients with painful thoracolumbar osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture with mild kyphotic deformity. However, unilateral PKP need less operation time and volume of cement.
The Effect of Kaizen Implementation and Sustainability on Performance of the Manufacturing Sector in Ethiopia
Authors: Nigatu Abebe
Published: September 2022

Today’s modern society, where business dynamism is changing fast, requires going beyond the traditional managerial approach. This research examines how and the context of Kaizen implementation affects the sustainability and Performance of manufacturing companies in Ethiopia. The study follows the framework of the Kaizen practices implemented in Ethiopia as the application of Kaizen tools, kaizen thinking, and culture. The findings indicate that there is a positive correlation between Kaizen Implementation factors (input factors) and sustainability factors in relation to the Performance of manufacturing companies in Ethiopia. The results of the study suggest that manufacturing companies in Ethiopia should emphasize working on promoting the Kaizen culture and empowerment of employees coupled with the use of the Kaizen tools effectively and adapted to the context of each company to enhance the Performance and achieve competitive advantage. Empowerment factors include all variables that measure thinking and culture. The variables are critical for sustaining Kaizen in terms of maintaining improved culture. For Kaizen to be sustainable, employees need to be empowered to learn, apply and own the changes. The results from the PLS path model analysis indicate that the dependent variable (improved culture) is found to have a strong relationship with two implementation variables (independent variables): empowerment and leadership commitment. Keywords: Culture, Empowerment, Leadership Commitment, Sustainability, Performance.
Leadership Styles and Employees’ Performance in University System: The Case of University of Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Segun Tekun
Published: September 2022

This paper assessed the relationship between leadership styles and employee performance of the University of Abuja, based on the arguments propounded by modern leadership theory. It adopted a survey research design and made use of primary data obtained from structured questionnaires distributed to a sample of 380 non-academic staff members of the University. Using the OLS regression technique, the study found strong evidence in support of a positive and statistically significant association between transformational and transactional leadership style in the University of Abuja. Specifically, the result of the analysis suggests that leadership style plays crucial role in the overall performance of the employee of the University. The study concluded that leadership style be it transformational, transactional, or laissez-faire, influences employee performance. In line with the above findings, the study recommended, among others that leaders (managers) at the University of Abuja should project inspiration, encourage creativity and innovation, and reward hard work but never abdicate its responsibility to drive performance. Keywords: Employee Performance, Leadership Styles, Organisational Outcomes.
An Empirical Analysis of the Importance of Teamwork on Project Management: The Case of Nigeria Telecommunication Sector
Authors: Modupe-Samuel Olanrewaju
Published: September 2022

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the importance of teamwork in project management in the Nigerian telecommunication industry. Data was collected across 310 telecommunication firms and analyzed using descriptive statistics and a t-test. The study found that teamwork is significant in meeting project timelines, project efficiency, reduction in project costs, enhanced project quality and improve customer satisfaction. Keywords: Project, Project Management, Teamwork.
Customer Service Quality in The Banking Industry. A Case Study of Zanaco-Ndola
Authors: Chilufya Kennedy
Published: September 2022

The main purpose of the research was to find out the customer service quality in the banking industry with respect to ZANACO PLC. The literature review on the subject was mainly collected from journals, textbooks, publications of articles and other relevant literature. The purpose was mainly to enhance the understanding of the subject. The primary data was collected from existing ZANACO west branch customers and its Management; Data was collected through questionnaires, direct observations, and personal interviews with the key informants on the subject matter. This research sought to establish the customer service quality in the banking sector, a case of ZANACO Ndola. The main objective of the study was to investigate the impact of customer service quality in the banking sector and make recommendations based on the findings of the study and to determine the importance of providing quality customer service to customers, and at the same time, checking whether customer service is a tool for gaining competitive advantage. Mainly a descriptive research design was used for the collection and analysis of data. Finally, it was found that customers are generally satisfied with the quality of services offered by ZANACO. Keywords: Atm, Commercial Banks, Covid-19, Investrus, Xapit, Zanaco.
Addressing the Management Challenges Related to Organizational Structure of Hospital Services in St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Authors: Walters Grace
Published: September 2022

This study was conducted to explore the measures that can be taken to address the management challenges that relate to the organizational structure of hospital services in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. A mixed method design was employed in which both qualitative and quantitative methods were used. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data from top managers assigned to four public hospitals in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The top managers were purposively selected because of their different roles in the management of hospital services. The thematic approach was used in the analysis of data. The study was significant in that it focused on exploring measures that could be used to address management challenges that relate to the existing organizational structure of hospital services in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The study also contributed to a strategic approach to addressing challenges that affect the delivery of hospital services. The results of the study revealed a number of measures that were highly recommended for addressing the management challenges related to the existing organizational structure of hospital services. The measures included :(i) redesigning the organizational structure to allow a single person to head the management of the organization, (ii) clearly defining the existing reporting lines, and (iii) appointing a CEO along with a board of directors to manage the hospital Services. The study informed a model framework of an organizational structure that illustrates the changes proposed. Keywords: Hospitals Services, Leadership, Measures, Management, Organizational Structure.
Mobile Money Adoption in Africa: A Literature-Based Analysis
Authors: Koi-Akrofi Joyce
Published: September 2022

The study sought to assess the factors that influence the adoption of mobile money banking and financial services in Africa. Despite the growth in the mobile money industry and its potential for the future, studies suggest that mobile money banking/financial services adoption remains low across sub-Saharan Africa. This research work employed a systematic literature review methodology, specifically, a literature-based analysis for the investigation. The researcher, for the purposes of this study, identified, selected, and critically reviewed only secondary data, which refers to data that has already been collected for some other. Twenty (20) recent articles on mobile money banking/financial services and external/internal factors, modeled by various theories concerning technology/innovation adoption, were gathered from highly recognized and profiled research databases, including Google Scholar, Research Gate, Emerald (database), Elsevier (database), Pro-quest, Scopus, and Springer. From the 20 articles reviewed, analyzed, and discussed, the number of external factors that influence mobile money adoption positively or negatively is twenty (20), while the count of internal factors that influence mobile money adoption positively or negatively is eight (8). In conclusion, the external factors outnumber the internal factors, but the internal factors are more grievous and have a significant impact on the mobile money service. The results of this research work also revealed the top five external factors researchers seem to encounter in their studies. The study provides significant insight into both external and internal factors affecting the adoption of mobile money services in Africa. Keywords: Africa, Databases, Mobile Money Banking/Financial services, Systematic.
La evaluación de tecnologías en salud basadas en inteligencia artificial ¿debería ser diferente?
Authors: Rojas-Gualdron Diego Fernando
Published: September 2022

Al determinar su idoneidad para usos en salud, ¿debería evaluarse la tecnología sanitaria basada en inteligencia artificial (IA) de forma diferente a otras tecnologías? Si bien la evaluación de los desarrollos tecnológicos está fuertemente orientada al proceso (diseño) y al impacto en el mercado, la evaluación de las tecnologías en salud está fuertemente orientada a las consecuencias, tanto positivas como negativas, sobre la salud de los individuos y la salud de la población. La evaluación tecnológica en salud debe seguir evolucionando para adaptarse a los retos que plantea la IA en salud, y así dar respuesta a las crecientes expectativas, a los nuevos retos sociales, legales, éticos y a las nuevas restricciones evaluativas que diferentes autores han señalado como retos en la implementación de la IA. Requerimos nuevos consensos profesionales y sociales en torno a este tema que ya se está implementando y desarrollando (incluso por sí mismo) a una velocidad vertiginosa. Este trabajo presenta algunas reflexiones personales sobre el tema a partir de los principios fundamentales de la evaluación y consideraciones bioéticas.
Pioderma gangrenoso y colitis ulcerativa. Reporte de Caso
Authors: Navarro Salgado Sara Carolina , Gonzalez Rios Karen Lizeth , Ossa García Maria Isabel , Guevara Hernandez Katherine , Dufflart Ocampo Juan David
Published: September 2022

Antecedentes: el pioderma gangrenoso es una enfermedad cutánea crónica inflamatoria que pertenece a las dermatosis neutrofílicas, es poco frecuente y su patogenia es desconocida. Se caracteriza por presentar clásicamente nódulos o pústulas de aparición más común en miembros inferiores que en poco tiempo progresan a ulceración dolorosa con bordes sobreelevados, de color eritematovioláceo y fondo sucio de aspecto necrótico. El 70 % de los casos se asocia con otros trastornos sistémicos, siendo la enfermedad inflamatoria intestinal una de las más frecuentes. Caso clínico: se describe el caso de una paciente de 64 años que cursó con lesiones papulo-eritematosas en axila y glúteo con progresión a úlceras dolorosas de características típicas de pioderma gangrenoso, asociado a deposiciones sanguinolentas. Se estableció diagnóstico de colitis ulcerosa mediante histopatología de colon y de pioderma por la presencia de lesiones cutáneas típicas, con histopatología que no fue sugestiva de otra entidad. Recibió tratamiento con ciclosporina, mesalazina y prednisolona, con múltiples recaídas; finalmente, se indicó manejo con terapia biológica logrando control de la enfermedad. Conclusión: se presentó el caso de una paciente con diagnóstico de pioderma gangrenoso, con la intención de describir su evolución y características clínicas típicas, exponiendo imágenes clínicas representativas de lesiones activas y en su fase de cicatriz.
Biomarkers in Gynecologic Tumors
Authors: Afsar Selim
Published: September 2022

Gynecologic malignancies are one of the most frequent cancers amongst
women. Biomarkers are crucial for the differential diagnosis of adnexal masses;
however, their potential for diagnosis is limited. In the era of difficulty in ovarian
cancer screening, novel biomarkers are defined, but CA125 still remains the most
valuable one. Circulating tumor DNAs, DNA hypermethylation, metabolites,
microRNAs, and kallikreins have recently turned out as ovarian cancer biomarkers and
are being applied to clinical practice. For uterine cancer, genomic classification has
now been described, it will be used as a prognostic tool. In this chapter, we describe
ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancer biomarkers in detail.
Advancements in Gastrointestinal System Biomarkers
Authors: Demiryas Suleyman , Orhan Anıl
Published: September 2022

The requirement for diagnostic surgical operations of gastrointestinal system
diseases significantly decreases with the help of proper diagnostic tools. These
modalities are also beneficial for identifying postoperative complications, allowing us
to diagnose them in earlier stages, and increasing the postoperative survival rates.
Biomarkers are considered an integral part of diagnostic examinations. Developments
of biomarkers used for diagnosing and treating abdominal diseases are essential for
improving our capabilities in non-invasive monitoring. In this chapter, we review both
the novel and the routine biomarkers in the diagnosis and follow-up of gastrointestinal
system diseases.
Biomarkers to Predict Sudden Cardiac Death
Authors: Soysal Ali Uğur , Yalin Kivanc
Published: September 2022

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a common disorder and an unsolved issue for
health care providers. Despite several risk factors for SCD, some cases experience SCD
as an initial presentation of cardiovascular disease. Prediction of individuals at
increased risk for SCD is important for implementing community-based approaches
and individual-based therapies with high costs, such as implantable defibrillators. This
chapter discusses the potential role of biomarkers in predicting SCD in different
cardiovascular diseases.
Biomarkers for Preterm Delivery
Authors: BIYIK Ismail , ALBAYRAK Mustafa
Published: September 2022

Preterm birth occurring before the thirty-seventh gestational week complicates 4.5%-18% of pregnancies worldwide. The pathogenesis of spontaneous preterm delivery is not fully understood. Among the factors held to be responsible for its pathogenesis, the most emphasized is the inflammatory process. Studies in terms of the prediction of preterm delivery are basically divided into 3 categories: 1) Prediction in pregnant women who are asymptomatic and without risk factors, 2) Prediction in pregnant women who are asymptomatic and have risk factors, 3) Prediction in symptomatic pregnant women who have threatened preterm labour. In this chapter, the topic of biomarkers in relation to preterm delivery is discussed. The most commonly used markers in published studies are fetal fibronectin, cervical pIGFBP-1 and cervical length measurement by transvaginal ultrasound. For prediction in symptomatic pregnant women applying to the hospital with threatened preterm labour, the markers used are fetal fibronection, insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) and inflammatory markers. Preterm labour prediction with markers checked in the first and second trimesters are fetal fibronection, insulin-like growth factors (IGFs), micro RNAs, progesterone, circulating microparticles (CMPs), inflammatory markers, matrix metalloproteinases, aneuploidy syndrome screening test parameters and other hormones.
Immunohistochemical Expression of IMP3 in Cutaneous Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Bartos Vladimir
Published: September 2022

Background. Insulin-like growth factor-II mRNA-binding protein 3 (IMP3) is an oncofetal protein upregulated in tumor cells during carcinogenesis. It has been linked to adverse clinical outcome in many malignancies.

This study was aimed to evaluate an immunohistochemical expression status of IMP3 in cutaneous basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and to correlate it with the Ki-67 index values.

Methods. Biopsy specimens from 32 cases of BCC were enrolled into this analysis. All samples were immunohistochemically stained for IMP3 (Clone 69.1) and Ki-67 antigen (Clone MIB-1).

Results. IMP3 showed a weak expression in 11 (34.4%) cases, a moderate expression in 11 (34.4%) cases, a strong expression in 5 (15.6%) cases, and negative staining in 5 (15.6%) cases. Among seven BCCs exhibiting aggressive-growth features, all but one showed weak reactivity. In contrast, all five BCCs manifesting strong IMP3 positivity consisted of the indolent-growth histologic subtypes. BCCs with infiltrative histomorphology did not appear to have a tendency towards more striking production of IMP3. There was no significant relationship between the IMP3 expression status and the proliferation status (Ki-67 ≤ 50% vs. Ki-67 > 50%) of the tumor tissue (p > 0.05).

Conclusions. The vast majority of cutaneous BCCs express IMP3, suggesting this oncoprotein is implicated in BCC carcinogenesis. However, more pronounced expression does not seem to be associated with aggressive-growth phenotype of BCC or higher proliferative activity of neoplastic cells.
Utilizing Proximity for Increasing Student Knowledge Retention: A Near-Peer Tutoring Program Needs Study
Authors: Lueck Johnathon S. , Varkey Thomas C. , Ramirez Daniel
Published: September 2022

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the desire and need for peer-to-peer tutoring programs at Division 1 Dell Medical School at the University of Texas.

Materials and Methods. Two sets of surveys were created and sent to students at the Dell Medical School, University of Texas, USA. One survey asking about the need or desire to engage with a peer tutor was sent to first-year students, and another one asking about the desire to provide these services to underclassmen as a potential leadership course option was sent to third-year students.

Results. For the first-year student survey, 52.9% of respondents disagreed or strongly disagreed of being aware of near-peer tutoring and 70.5% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed that it would be an option utilized by students. For the third-year student survey, 75% of students either disagreed or felt neutral in being aware of near-peer tutoring as an option to serve underclassmen, whereas 65% of upperclassmen either agreed or strongly agreed that if near-peer tutoring had been offered, they would have chosen this leadership course option in the effort to teach their underclassmen peers.

Conclusions. Numerous studies have demonstrated peer-to-peer tutorial options to be of high utility to students in the medical education space. This particular paper obtained results demonstrating students’ desire to engage in peer tutoring voluntarily for their own course success goals and upperclassmen’s desire to participate as near-peer tutors for the benefit of underclassmen.
Awareness of and Attitudes Towards Domestic Violence in Turkish Society
Authors: Gezgin Yazici Havva , Batmaz Makbule , Okten Cigdem
Published: September 2022

The objective of this study was to identify domestic violence awareness and attitudes towards violence among adult individuals in Turkish society.

Materials and Methods. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted online between September 15, 2021 and November 15, 2021 and included 353 individuals. The data were collected using the snowball sampling method, the Google Forms, the Socio-Demographic Descriptive Information Form, the Domestic Violence Awareness Scale, and the Attitudes Towards Domestic Violence (ADV) Scale. For data analysis, the number, percentage, mean, standard deviation, Student’s t-test, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), post hoc (Tukey, LSD) analyses, Cohen’s d and Eta squared (η 2) coefficients, and correlation analysis were used.

Results. Most research participants were females (79.0%), with the average age of 30.53 ± 13.11 years. Of all the participants, 56.9% stated that they witnessed domestic violence, 22.7% stated that they experienced violence against women, 8.2% stated that they used violence. While the mean Domestic Violence Awareness Scale score was calculated as 41.09 ± 3.98, the mean score of the ADV Scale was calculated as 20.18 ± 7.82. The scores of domestic violence awareness differed significantly depending on education level (p=0.042; η 2=0.018). The scores of women’s attitude towards domestic violence (19.10) were lower than those in men (24.26) (p=0.05; d=0.684; η2=0.072). Participants’ attitudes towards domestic violence varied significantly by family type (p=0.006; η2=0.029), education level (p=0.007; η2=0.028), and occupation (p=0.007; η2=0.040). There was a significant positive relationship between awareness of and attitudes towards domestic violence (r=0.226).

Conclusions. Study participants had a high sense of awareness towards domestic violence and a negative attitude towards violence. Their awareness of domestic violence was affected by education level, while their attitudes towards domestic violence was affected by gender, type of family, education level, and occupation.
Surgical correction of a bilateral congenital nasal pyriform aperture stenosis in a French Bulldog
Authors: Bogenhagen T. , Stegen L.
Published: September 2022

A four-month-old, male, intact French Bulldog was presented with bilateral purulent nasal discharge and difficulties in breathing. A congenital nasal pyriform aperture stenosis with closure of both nasal cavities was diagnosed. The aperture was surgically opened through a midline approach, and a covered metallic stent (CMS) was inserted in each nasal cavity to prevent the newly constructed airway from obstructing. Seven weeks after implantation, the left nasal cavity was obstructed by granulation tissue. Further diagnostics revealed that the left stent had migrated caudally. The aperture had to be reopened and a new stent was placed. The right stent was removed endoscopically at that time, the left stent was removed six weeks after implantation. Four weeks after the removal of the left stent, the dog had normal airflow through both nares with very mild serous nasal discharge.
The Evolution of the Idiolect over the Lifetime: A Quantitative and Qualitative Study of French 19th Century Literature
Authors: Seminck Olga , Gambette Philippe , Legallois Dominique , Poibeau Thierry
Published: September 2022

The way in which authors express themselves is unique but changes over their lifetime. However, quantitative studies of this idiolectal evolution are rare. Using the Corpus for Idiolectal Research (CIDRE) that contains the dated works of 11 prolific 19th century French fiction writers, we propose new methods to identify, quantify and describe the grammatical-stylistic changes that take place using lexico-morphosyntactic patterns, also called motifs. To examine the strength of the chronological signal of change, we developed a method to calculate if a distance matrix of literary works contains a stronger chronological signal than expected by chance. Ten out of 11 corpora showed a higher than chance chronological signal, leading us to conclude that the evolution of the idiolect is in a mathematical sense monotonic, supporting the rectilinearity hypothesis previously put forward in the stylometric literature. The rectilinear property of the evolution of the idiolect found for most authors in CIDRE subsequently enabled us to propose a machine learning task: predicting the year in which a work was written. For the majority of the authors in our corpus, the accuracy and the amount of variance that is explained by the model were high and we discuss why the technique might fail for others. After applying a feature selection algorithm, we examined the most important features, i.e. the motifs that have the greatest influence on idiolectal evolution. We find that some of those features are stylistic and have been previously identified in qualitative literature studies. We report some remarkable stylistic constructions revealed by our algorithm to illustrate which kind of stylistic patterns can be extracted using our method.
The Changing Meaning of Teenagers in Today’s Digital Education and Economy
Authors: Stockman Caroline
Published: September 2022

Teenagers or adolescents are complex cultural constructions. This paper will trace a brief history on the origin of the notions as relevant to the Global North. It considers related UK educational policy, and the specific economic interest in ‘the teenage consumer’. The consideration of young people for their significant economic value sparked direct marketing and advertising strategies. Concerns over unconscious manipulation of adolescents were stilled by reassurances of autonomy and freedom of choice. In today’s digital economy, similar meaning-making occurs. However, this paper argues that a young person’s freedom and autonomy is systematically undermined. Instead, the teenager loses autonomy in becoming a direct commodity. Today’s digital culture further complicates the concrete legal and social assurance of autonomy. This is illustrated by a critique of educational technology integration in schools. Specifically, the use of young people’s data for product development or third-party business data exchange is critically discussed to show this cultural dynamic. It captures the changing conceptualisation of teenagers in society and education, from autonomy to commodity. Renewing young people’s voice and agency in digital rights activism, as well as critical digital literacy in the curriculum is now needed for teenagers to renegotiate their meaning in digital culture and education.
Effects of Human Resource Training Practices on Employees’ Performance in Tanzania: A Case of Dar Salaam Water and Sewerage Authority
Authors: Changale Miraji , Mosoma David
Published: September 2022

The study investigates the effects of human resources training practices on employees’ performance at Dar es Salaam Water and Sewerage Authority (DAWASA). Specifically, the study examined if employee’s engagement, motivation and job satisfaction have effects on employee’s performance at DAWASA. The study employed pragmatic philosophy with a mixed research approach and descriptive research design. Data were collected using questionnaire and interview guide. Analysis was done through descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings depicted that HR training practices enhance internal communication, enrich employees with decision making skills, increase employees’ commitment and participation/involvement in various issues increase employees’ capacity in meeting deadlines increase the feelings of ownership and handling of employees with care. Also, human resource training practices have found to motivate employees and increase performance as it boosts of employees, develop employee’s personality, reduce supervision level enhance employee’s pro-activeness, reduce absenteeism, increase ability to defend employer and lastly enhance organization image. Lastly on effects of job satisfaction on employee’s performance, the study conclude that Human Resource training practices enhance job satisfaction as it increases employee’s devotion time, team working, ability to cope with changes, ability to meet work standards, and reduced supervisors’ supervision. The study recommends the management of DAWASA to having enough budget and supportive policies for training issues. Secondly, there is a need of budget allocation by the government or authority to enable DAWASA to be able to acquire experts and trainers who will enable proper implementation of Human Resource training practices at all levels
The Study of Foucault’s “The Composition of Forces” in Shutter Island (2003)
Authors: Jahandide Shadi , Taebi Zohre
Published: September 2022

The American author Dennis Lehane, published his masterpiece Shutter Island in 2003. In his psychological novel, alongside the thrilling themes of crime and crisis, a heavy undercurrent of power and punishment grabs reader's attention. From a literary philosophical side, Foucauldian notions of madness, “the composition of forces” upon the mentally disturbed patients, could captivate a critic’s attention. It is therefore, beneficial to analyze the Dissociative Personality Disorder of the protagonist of the novel. The present study aims to investigate “the composition of forces” in Shutter Island (2003) based on Michel Foucault’s Discipline and Punish (1975). Foucault in his book scrutinizes “the composition of forces,” how individuals and bodies are placed, and redirected in larger machines, like choosing good soldiers and training them for army. Among Foucault’s ideas, “the composition of forces” has been considered as one of the primary and essential tools of maintaining the disciplinary power. The study concludes that the main character of the novel shows resistance and denial through his process of treatment. In fact, his Dissociative Identity Disorder is a manifestation of the way he wants to escape from the superintending forces of the disciplinary power.
Promoting community stakeholder engagement in research on treatment for pregnant women with opioid use disorder
Authors: Johnson Deborah J , Brunette Mary F , Goodman Daisy J , Adams Meagan , Bryer Cheri , Doherty Julie R , Flanagan Victoria , Frew Julia R , Mullins Sarah , Sheehan Farrah , Tobar-Santamaria Allison , Whitney Sarah , Lord Sarah
Published: September 2022

Aim:
Community stakeholder engagement in research (CSER) can improve research relevance and efficiency as well as prevent harmful practices, particularly for vulnerable populations. Despite potential benefits, researchers lack familiarity with CSER methods.
Methods:
We describe CSER strategies used across the research continuum, including proposal development, study planning and the first years of a comparative effectiveness study of care for pregnant women with opioid use disorder.
Results:
We highlight successful strategies, grounded in principles of engagement, to establish and maintain stakeholder relationships, foster bidirectional communication and trust and support active participation of women with opioid use disorder in the research process.
Conclusion:
CSER methods support research with a disenfranchised population. Future work will evaluate the impact of CSER strategies on study outcomes and dissemination.
Strength of RC Beam Using Geo Polymer Concrete and Adoption Bubble Technology
Authors: Kumar Nitin
Published: September 2022

Abstract: Bubble Deck technology first time in European countries provide consumption of high-density polyethylene hollow spheres to replicate the unproductive material in the mid of the slab, consequently diminishing the deceased burden and escalating the competence of the flooring. This process be used in the concrete floor system. Concrete is superior in firmness and thus is further constructive in the compression section than in the tension section. The diminution in concrete can be done by replacing the tension region concrete. Keeping the equal design in intellect, an effort has been ended to discover out the efficiency of plastic bubbles by replacing concrete in the tension region of Ordinary Portland Cement Concrete (OPCC) and Geo polymer Concrete (GPC) beam. Geo polymer Concrete does not figure calcium- silicate-hydrates (CSHs) for matrix configuration and potency like OPCC however utilizes the poly condensation of silica with alumina precursors to achieve structural potency. In this job, M25 concrete mix is used to practice both OPCC and GPC beams. The trial mix is experienced for compressive potency. Flexure test is completed for 28 days of curing of the beams.
A Comparative Study on Antimicrobial Activity of Vigna unguiculata And Cynodon dactylon
Authors: Chakraborty Soumallya , Bhattacharya Somenath , Pal Rohan , Mandal Sanjit , Biswas Sourav , Mandal Chiranjit , Roy Dr. Amitava , Bhattacharjee Dr. Arin
Published: September 2022

Abstract: Extract from different parts of medicinal plant contains lots of phytochemicals and helps to cure different types of diseases. Vigna unguiculata and Cynodon dactylon both are annual herbs and found all over the country. Both annual herbs are numerous used in Ayurveda, Unani and Siddha medicines. Vigna unguiculata is a leguminous plant and contain various phytochemicals like alkaloids, flavonoids, Amino acid, phenols, and phytic acid. Vigna unguiculata extract have been reported to cure different type of diseases like anthelmintic activity, antibacterial activity, antimicrobial activity, antidiabetic activity, antiviral and antifungal activity, antioxidant activity ,hypocholesteerolemic activity and hypolipidemic activites. Extracts from different parts of Cynodon dactylon are widely used to prevent different kinds of diseases like antiviral and antimicrobial activity, against snake bites, gout and rheumatic affection, anthelmintic activity, anti-inflammatory activity, reduce burning sensation, hyperdipsia, haematuria, leprosy, bronchitis, piles, asthma, enlargement of the spleen, tumors, dysentery, diarrhoea, conjunctivitis, vomiting etc due to the lot of phytochemical likes flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, terpenoids, saponins, resins, tannins, reducing sugar, phytosterols, proteins, carbohydrates, volatile oil and fixed oils presents in the plant.
The Role of Islamic and Conventional Microfinance in Tackling Financial Exclusion in Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Uganda
Authors: Azrak Tawfik , Edema Muzamil
Published: September 2022

There has been to pertinent study considering the growth of Islamic and conventional microfinance institutions as an antecedent of financial inclusion in Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Uganda in a single study. Adults who are financially excluded make up sizable numbers in Bangladesh, Nigeria, and Uganda, the three OIC countries. Financial exclusion has been addressed through the establishment of microfinance institutions. This study attempts to review the contribution of Islamic and conventional microfinance institutions established in these countries in tackling financial exclusion. The study used the data from the Global Findex Database of the World Bank and IMF Financial Access Survey to draw a comparative image of financial access among the countries. The evidence indicated that there are significant financial gaps across the countries and hence a huge opportunity for Islamic microfinance with its vast range of financial products could be implemented to spur economic growth and tackle financial exclusion. Policymakers can use the study's findings to entice and build new microfinance institutions with broadly inclusive products for all populations of these countries.
Factors shaping the gut microbiome of five species of lizards from different habitats
Authors: Vasconcelos Diana , Harris David , Moreira Isabel Damas , Pereira Ana , Xavier Raquel
Published: September 2022

Host-gut microbiota interactions are complex and can have a profound
impact on the ecology and evolution of both counterparts. Several host
traits such as systematics, diet and social behavior, and external
factors such as prey availability and local environment are known to
influence the composition and diversity of the gut microbiota. In this
study, we investigate the influence of systematics, sex, host size, and
locality/habitat on gut microbiota diversity in five lizard species from
two different sites in Portugal: Podarcis bocagei and Podarcis
lusitanicus, living in syntopy in a rural area in northern Portugal
(Moledo); the invasive Podarcis siculus and the native Podarcis
virescens, living in sympatry in urbanized environment (Lisbon); and the
invasive Teira dugesii also living in an urban area (Lisbon). We also
infer the potential microbial transmission occurring between species
living in sympatry and syntopy. To accomplish these goals, we use a
metabarcoding approach to characterize the bacterial communities from
the cloaca of lizards, sequencing the V4 region of the 16S rRNA.
Habitat/locality was an important factor explaining differences in gut
bacterial composition and structure, with species from urbanized
environments having higher bacterial diversity. Host systematics (i.e.
species) influenced gut bacterial community structure only in lizards
from the urbanized environment. We also detected a significant positive
correlation between lizard size and gut bacterial alpha-diversity in the
invasive species P. siculus, which could be due to its higher
exploratory behavior. Moreover, estimates of bacterial transmission
indicate that P. siculus may have acquired a high proportion of local
microbiota after its introduction. These findings confirm that a diverse
array of host and environmental factors can influence lizards gut
microbiota.
Froth stability and entrainment evaluation of a novel frother for KCl/NaCl flotation
Authors: Wang Linjian , Xu Yanxia
Published: September 2022

The rate of KCl recovery by froth flotation using low-grade carnallite
is 70–85%. Herein, a novel frother, dipropylene glycol butyl ether
(DPNB), was prepared to increase the flotation efficiency of KCl
recovery systems. DPNB could be applied at only half the dosage of the
conventional frother methyl isobutyl carbinol (MIBC) and achieve a KCl
recovery rate of 94.8–98.6% with a high KCl grade (63.2–66.5%). To
date, these results are the best reported for pneumatic flotation. DPNB
had a 10% higher maximum dynamic stability factor compared with of
MIBC; moreover, the apparent entrainment velocity of DPNB was half that
of MIBC. The molecular structure of DPNB had hydroxyl and ether groups,
which promoted interactions with water, thereby contributing to its
excellent froth stability. DPNB is environment friendly owing to its low
volatility and, thus, a promising frother for the green and highly
efficient flotation of KCl/NaCl.
Solution of a System of Nonlinear Convex Constrained Monotone Equations using BFGS Method of Projection Approach with Application in Motion Control
Authors: Rehman Maaz , Sabi’u Jamilu , Sohaib Muhammad , Shah Abdullah
Published: September 2022

This paper presents the scaling memoryless
Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno (BFGS) method for solving a system of
nonlinear convex constrained monotone equations. The optimal value of
the scaling parameter is obtained by minimizing the condition number. A
derivative-free memoryless BFGS projection-based algorithm is proposed.
The global convergence of the algorithm is obtained analytically and
some test problems are solved numerically. The computed results are
compared with the available results in the literature. It is observed
that the proposed algorithm performs well in terms of CPU time, number
of iterations and function evaluations. Furthermore, the proposed method
is successfully applied to robot manipulator motion control.
Least energy sign-changing solutions for a class of fractional $(p,q)$-Laplacian problems with critical growth in $\R^N$
Authors: Cheng kun , Feng ShengHao , wang li
Published: September 2022

In this paper we consider the following fractional $(p,q)$-Laplacian
equation $$ (-\Delta)_{p}^{s}
u+(-\Delta)_{q}^{s}
u+V(x)\left(|u|^{p-2}
u+|u|^{q-2}
u\right)=\lambda
f(u)+|u|^{q^*_s-2}u \quad
\text { in } \mathbb{R}^{N}, $$
where $s \in(0,1),
\lambda>0, 2
Large offspring have enhanced lifetime reproductive success: long-term carry-over effects of natal size in grey seals (Halichoerus grypus)
Authors: Badger Janelle , Bowen W. Don , Heyer Cornelia den , Breed Greg
Published: September 2022

An individual’s size in early stages of life may be an important source
of individual variation in lifetime reproductive performance, as size
effects on ontogenetic development can have cascading physiological and
behavioral consequences throughout life. Here, we explored how natal
size influences subsequent reproductive performance in grey seals
(Halichoerus grypus) using repeated encounter and reproductive data on a
marked sample of 363 females that were measured for length at
~4 weeks of age and eventually recruited to the Sable
Island breeding colony. Two reproductive traits were considered:
provisioning performance (mass of weaned offspring), modeled using
linear mixed effects models; and reproductive frequency (rate at which a
female returns to breed), modeled using mixed-effects multistate
mark-recapture models. Mothers with the longest natal lengths produced
pups 8 kg heavier and were 20% more likely to breed in a given year
than mothers with the shortest lengths. Correlation in body lengths
between natal and adult life stages, however, is weak: longer pups do
not grow to be longer than average adults. Thus covariation between
natal length and future reproductive performance appears to be a
carry-over effect, where the size advantages afforded in early juvenile
stages may allow enhanced long-term performance in adulthood.
Geography, climate and changes in host plants distribution explain patterns of genomic variation within the cactus moth
Authors: Poveda-Martínez Daniel , Noguerales Victor , Varone Laura , Hight Stephen , Logarzo Guillermo , Emerson Brent , Hasson Esteban
Published: September 2022

Landscape heterogeneity and the reconfiguration of host plant
distributions as a consequence of Quaternary climate oscillations are
suggested to play a determinant role in shaping the evolutionary history
of herbivorous insects. The cactus moth, Cactoblastis cactorum, is a
southern South American phytophagous insect specialized in the use of
cacti as feeding and breeding resources. It can be found across broad
latitudinal and longitudinal gradients feeding on diverse native Opuntia
species as well as the exotic and cultivated species Opuntia
ficus-indica. Using high-throughput sequence data for the nuclear genome
and mitochondrial DNA sequencing, we investigated patterns of genomic
variation of C. cactorum across its native distribution. We integrated a
demographic modeling approach for inferring gene flow and divergence
times between C. cactorum populations, within a landscape genomic
framework, to test alternative spatially-explicit hypotheses of past and
current population connectivity based on climatically suitable areas for
the focal species and distributions of host plants. Regions currently
exhibiting high genomic diversity were evaluated for congruence with
areas where suitable climatic conditions remained stable from the last
glacial maximum to the present. Results revealed significant population
structure across the range of C. cactorum, that can be explained by the
spatial configuration of persistently suitable environmental conditions
and host plant ranges during interglacial and glacial periods. Moreover,
genomic data supported a hypothesis of long-term habitat stability in
the northern regions of the distribution that served as a refuge for C.
cactorum, enabling the accumulation and maintenance of high levels of
genetic diversity over time.
Does Neurophysiological Facilitation (NPF) influence respiratory function in a preterm infant with respiratory distress? A Case Report
Authors: Raghupathy Manasa Kolibylu , Lewis Leslie Edward S. , G Shubha
Published: September 2022

Background: Infants born between 28 to 32 weeks of gestation
require assisted ventilation or oxygen support due to respiratory
distress syndrome. Neurophysiological facilitation (NPF) is the use of
selective external proprioceptive and tactile stimuli. It further
normalizes the rate & depth of breathing by influencing the
length-tension relationship of muscles. NPF has shown improvement in
ventilation capacity & oxygen saturation level among adult ventilated
patients. Biomechanical understanding of the preterm infant’s ribcage
musculature was a prerequisite for administering the NPF technique in
this case report. Case Presentation: We report a case of
29-week preterm infant with respiratory distress syndrome who received
NPF techniques. Outcome measure: modified Downes Score, Silverman
Anderson Score, and vitals such as oxygen saturation and respiratory
rate. It was found that administration of NPF intervention to the infant
lead to the reduction of chest retractions, an increase in the oxygen
saturation level, and a faster trend of early weaning off the
ventilator. The infant was completely off from Continuous Positive
Airway Pressure (CPAP) and was on room air by day 14 of life.
Conclusion: Techniques like NPF might promote better
respiratory function in a preterm infant with respiratory distress.
Regulation of Host Gene Expression by Gastrointestinal Tract Microbiota in Chinook Salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
Authors: Sadeghi Javad , Chaganti Subba Rao , Heath Daniel
Published: September 2022

Differences in gut microbiome composition are linked with health,
disease and ultimately host fitness; however, the molecular mechanisms
underlying that relationship are not well characterized. Here, we
modified the fish gut microbiota using antibiotic and probiotic feed
treatments to address the effect of host microbiome on gene expression
patterns. Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) gut gene expression
was evaluated using whole transcriptome sequencing (RNA-Seq) on hindgut
mucosa samples from individuals treated with antibiotic, probiotic and
control diets to determine differentially expressed (DE) host genes.
Fifty DE host genes were selected for further characterization using
nanofluidic qPCR chips. We used 16S rRNA gene metabarcoding to
characterize the rearing water and host gut microbiome bacterial
communities. Daily administration of antibiotics and probiotics resulted
in significant changes in fish gut and aquatic microbiota as well as
more than 100 DE genes in the antibiotic and probiotic treatment fish,
relative to healthy controls. Normal microbiota depletion by antibiotics
mostly led to downregulation of different aspects of immunity and
upregulation of apoptotic process. In the probiotic treatment, genes
related to post-translation modification and inflammatory responses were
up-regulated relative to controls. Our qPCR results revealed significant
effects of treatment (antibiotic and probiotic) on rabep2, aifm3, manf,
prmt3 gene transcription. Moreover, we found significant associations
between members of Lactobacillaceae and Aeromonadaceae with host gene
expression patterns. Overall, our analysis showed that the microbiota
had significant impacts on many host signaling pathways, specifically
targeting immune, developmental, and metabolic processes. Our
characterization of some of the molecular mechanisms involved in
microbiome-host interactions will help develop new strategies for
preventing/ treating microbiome disruption-related diseases.