bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Survey on Issues and Challenges of Load Balancing Techniques in Cloud Computing Environment
Authors: K S Febina , Hemchand Tanuja , . Shamimunnisabi , P Roopa , P Aishwarya
Published: January 2023

Abstract: Cloud computing has transformed user services by introducing a new model that allows for pay-per-use access to information technology services at any time and from any location. Numerous businesses are moving their operations to the cloud as a result of the flexibility offered by cloud services, and additional data centers are being set up by service providers to provide users with services. However, it is essential to ensure efficient resource utilization and cost-effective task execution. Based on load balancing, task scheduling, resource management, quality of service, and workload management, several methods to improve performance and resource use have been reported in the literature. Data centers can use load balancing in the cloud to prevent virtual machines from being overloaded or under loaded, which is a problem in and of itself in cloud computing. As a result, developers and researchers must develop and implement a suitable load balancer for distributed and parallel cloud environments. In order for researchers to develop algorithms that are more effective, this survey provides a cutting-edge review of issues and obstacles associated with existing load-balancing methods.
Ethanolic, Methanolic, and Aqueous Extracts of Phyllanthus Niruri to Look at Its Antibacterial Properties and Phytochemicals
Authors: Tiwari Kushagra , Malik Prof. Dr. Jitendra
Published: January 2023

Abstract: As a possible addition to traditional medicine, pharmaceutical companies are turning more and more to the large number of phytochemical compounds found in medicinal plants. These chemicals are also used to make drugs. Because of its healing properties, Phyllanthus niruri has been shown to help treat a number of diseases, such as hepatitis. The main goal of this study is to find out what phytochemical compounds might be present. The goal of this study was to look at the phytochemical makeup and antibacterial activity of Phyllanthus and Phyllanthus niruri extracts in water, ethanol, and methanol. There are many different compounds in PN. Some of them are saponins, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, and cardiac glycosides. Different concentrations of methanol, ethanol, and water extracts were tested to see if they could kill bacteria. When compared to the other extracts, the 30% weight-per-volume methanolic extract had the largest zone of inhibition. Each extract of P. niruri has secondary metabolites that could be used in medicine and act as antibacterial agents against a wide range of bacteria. These PN phytochemicals have properties that kill bacteria and get rid of free radicals, and they may be used in therapeutic interventions.
Review on Detection of Internal Defects in CFRP Strengthened Steel Structures Using Eddy Current Pulsed Thermography
Authors: Badole Pradnya , Raut Dr. Mahesh V. , Harinkhede Mr. Sanjivkumar
Published: January 2023

Abstract: This study investigates the effectiveness of the current pulse thermal technique (ESRT) in detecting internal defects in СFRР reinforced metal structures. This study covers various internal defects of FRР reinforced steel structures, including cracks, small tracks in СFRР, metal cracks / inter-steel cracks. We theoretically analyze the effect of these problems on the magnetic and thermal response of structures. To confirm the results of the theater, statistical and diagnostic tests were performed on steel plates reinforced with СFRР with various defects. Numerical and diagnostic results show that EСРТ can estimate observed deformations and show low temperature regions in EСРТ thermograms. In addition to the thermal characteristics of the thermograms, the appearance of the temperature profile and changes in temperature are also examined for reanalysis of the thermal analysis. In addition, based on the test results, the effectiveness of EСRT to restore the size and scope of errors was demonstrated. Overall, theoretical, numerical and experimental results show that EСRT is effective in diagnosing internal defects in CFRP-reinforced steel structures
The Educational Effect of Machine Learning-Based Teacher Education Program on the Classifying State of Matter
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Choi Jung-In , Paik Seoung-Hey
Published: January 2023

Objectives In this study, a machine learning-based teacher education program for classifying the state of matter was developed and implemented for elementary and secondary science teachers and machine learning model for state classification of matter was established. And by analyzing the model evaluation and the experience of science teachers qualitatively, it was attempted to confirm the effectiveness of the program and the perception of science teachers about the application of machine learning to science classes.
Methods For 31 elementary and middle school science teachers enrolled in the Graduate School of Education at the College of Education located in the central region, a total of three matter classification activities were performed and a decision tree algorithm was applied to the machine learning model. And the effectiveness of the program was confirmed through model performance evaluation such as accuracy and F1-score. In addition, we qualitatively analyzed the thoughts of science teachers on the application of machine learning.
Results TAs a result of evaluating the performance of the built model during a total of 3 state of matter classification activities, it was determined that the accuracy and F1-score values increased statically, resulting in the educational effect of the Machine Learning-Based Teacher Education Program on the Classifying State of Matter. And as a result of analyzing the data of the study participants, it was revealed that there are cases in which the states of matter are classified through a deductive thinking process based on knowledge. As a result of comparing evaluation indicators of the machine learning models, the macroscopic classification criteria had a greater effect than the microscopic classification criteria. And when the classification results between the machine learning model and the research participants for various examples were compared, in the case of mixtures, the degree of inconsistency increased. In addition, through qualitative research analysis, the thoughts of science teachers on the application of machine learning were derived into nine topics, including ‘experience the process of creating science concepts’, ‘cognitive conflict’, and ‘communication’.
Conclusions Machine learning should be actively introduced into teacher education as an inquiry-learning method of science education. And educational materials such as textbooks that can properly reflect scientific reasoning processes such as inductive thinking should be developed based on machine learning-based education programs. And it is necessary to discuss from a scientific point of view whether mixtures should be included in the learning of Classifying State of Matter.
The relationship between young adult’s self-object experience and healthy narcissism: The mediating effects of empathy perception and self-soothing ability
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Kwak Inhee , Jo Yongjoo
Published: January 2023

Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between young adults’ self-object experience and healthy narcissism, the structural relationship between empathy perception and self-soothing that was explored, and which paths each variable formed healthy narcissism through.
Methods For this purpose, an online survey was conducted on adults aged 19 to 39 across the country, and data of a total from 533 people (233 men and 300 women) were analyzed. Descriptive statistical analysis, correlation analysis, and mediating effect analysis were conducted using SPSS 25 and MPLUS 8.6 (Muthén & Mutén, 1998-2014) to estimate the relationship between each variable.
Results The results of the study are as follows. First, positive correlations between self-empathy, healthy narcissism, empathy perception, and self-soothing ability were all significant. Second, there was no significant mediation effect of empathy perception on the relationship between self-object experience and healthy narcissism. Third, there was a significant mediation effect of self-soothing ability on the relationship between self-object experience and health narcissism. Fourth, the single mediation effect of empathy perception on the relationship between self-object experience and healthy narcissism was found insignificant, however, sequential double mediation of self-object experience through empathy perception and self-soothing ability on healthy narcissism was significant.
Conclusions Based on Kohut’s self psychology, these results suggest that empathy perception and self-soothing ability play the role of procedural variables in the relationship between self-object experience and healthy narcissism. Therefore, in order to form healthy narcissism, the direction to intervene in various scenes such as education site, workplace, and counseling, and the need to provide educational materials and programs were confirmed.
A Study on the Classification of Learners’ Perceptions on Labor Rights: Focusing on J University Students
Authors:   Korean Association For Learner-Centered Curriculum And Instruction, Oh Hyun-Gyu
Published: January 2023

Objectives In order to prepare a curriculum improvement plan to help students understand the socioeconomic background and current issues surrounding labor with interest in labor rights issues, we analyzed how actual students think about issues related to labor rights.
Methods This study explored the perspectives on labor rights issues subjectively perceived by J University students through the Q methodology, categorizing various perceptions into 4 types, and looked into the characteristics of each type in detail.
Results The 4 types extracted through the QUANL program were reviewed, and a group of students with similar perceptions and attitudes was analyzed in depth. As a result of the analysis, a big difference in the subjective perception of undergraduate students looking at labor rights issues was found.
Conclusions Through this type of classification and analysis process, improving the curriculum is suggested and the learning vital for today's undergraduate school students requires motivation. In the future, this data is expected to become meaningful basic data with which to design a curriculum centered on voluntary and active learners in labor rights education.
Par semantiskajām pārmaiņām latviešu helonīmijā
Authors:   Latvijas Universitāte, Paidere Anita
Published: January 2023

Rakstā aplūkotas semantiskās pārmaiņas latviešu helonīmijā. Onimizācija un transtoponimizācija ir šajos nosaukumos biežāk sastopamie semantiskie vārddarināšanas paņēmieni, tomēr joprojām onimizēšanās procesa posmi ir samērā neskaidri, bieži vien saistīti ar īpašvārda lietotāju konkrētajā brīdī. Savukārt lielākā daļa transtoponimizēšanās gadījumu, domājams, saistāmi ar pārmaiņām, kuras laika gaitā skārušas pašu objektu, nosaukumam saglabājoties nemainītā formā. Par semantiskajiem vārddarināšanas paņēmieniem uzskata arī metaforu un metonīmiju, taču analizētajā materiālā ir salīdzinoši maz metaforisko helonīmu. Dažkārt nav iespējams noteikt, vai nosaukumā vērojams metaforisks nozīmes pārnesums, vai arī nosaukuma rašanos motivējusi kāda ārēji uztverama pazīme – tātad nav skaidras un precīzas robežas starp tiešo vai pārnesto nozīmi. Salīdzinoši drošāk nosakāmi ar mitoloģisko pasaules uzskatu saistītie metaforiskie helonīmi. Kartē sniegts šo nosaukumu izplatības areāls, kura pamatā, visticamāk, ir ekstralingvistiski cēloņi.
Akustinė lietuvių ir latvių kalbų kirčio struktūra: žvalgomasis tyrimas
Authors:   Vilniaus universitetas, Švageris Evaldas
Published: January 2023

Tipologiniai ryšiai yra vienas kalbinių universalijų atspindžių. Reikia pasakyti, kad į baltų kalbų prozodines sistemas, jų fonetinę bazę, šiuo rakursu kol kas žvelgta pernelyg fragmentiškai. Viso to pasekmė – iš pirmo žvilgsnio gana didelė kalbinė diferenciacija, suponuojanti, kad kone kiekvieno didesnio tarminio ploto fonetinis prozodinių elementų pavidalas yra unikalus. Šiame straipsnyje ši realija bandoma verifikuoti lyginamąja akustine lietuvių ir latvių bendrinių kalbų kirčio analize. Kadangi šiuo metu vyraujanti fonetinio kirčio kompleksiškumo samprata palieka gana daug erdvės interpretacijai, kryptingesnio klausimo sprendimo ieškoma naujomis metodologinėmis priemonėmis. Keliama prielaida, kad kirtis galėtų būti prozodinis veiksnys, sąlygojantis tarpskiemeninius tono (platesne prasme – garso) kontrolės, interpretuojamos per F0 vidutinio lygio, F0 diapazono ir F0 pagreičio išvestinės santykių prizmę, skirtumus. Tyrimo duomenys atskleidė, kad tarp lietuvių ir latvių kalbų kirčio šiuo požiūriu yra daugiau panašumų nei skirtumų.
Strategic business decisions of retailers in the edible insect value chain in Uganda
Authors: Donkor Emmanuel , Mbeche Robert , Mithöfer Dagmar
Published: January 2023

Edible insect value chains are expected to contribute to sustainable food and nutrition security, poverty alleviation and job creation in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, there is little empirical evidence on the strategic business decisions of midstream-actors in edible insect value chain. This study fills this knowledge gap by analysing the factors that influence retailers’ strategic business decisions, that is, choices of supplier, product to purchase, procurement strategy and the quantity of product purchased in the grasshopper value chain in central Uganda. Using a primary dataset collected from 500 randomly selected retailers from two districts in central Uganda, Cragg’s tobit alternative and binary probit models are applied in the empirical analysis. Retailers mainly procure grasshopper products from wholesalers and collectors. The study shows that demographic, economic, transactional and processing-related factors significantly influence retailers’ strategic business decisions in the grasshopper markets. Developing retailers’ human capital in business management practices and collective action is important to enable them to make informed strategic business decisions in the agrifood chain.
Assessment of a Recognition Program in an Academic Family Medicine Department
Authors: Radico Julie A. , Parascando Jessica , Oser Tamara K. , Riley Timothy D.
Published: January 2023

Background and Objectives: Burnout is prevalent among clinicians and faculty. We sought to understand the impact of a recognition program designed to reduce burnout and affect engagement and job satisfaction in a large academic family medicine department.
Methods: A recognition program was created in which three clinicians and faculty from the department were randomly selected each month to be recognized (“awardees”). Each awardee was asked to honor a person who had supported them (a “hidden hero” [HH]). Clinicians and faculty not recognized or selected as an HH were considered “bystanders.” Interviews were completed with 12 awardees, 12 HHs, and 12 bystanders for a total of 36 interviews. We used content analysis to qualitatively evaluate the program.
Results: Assessment of the “We Are” Recognition Program resulted in the categories of impact (subcategories: process positives, process negatives, and fairness of program) and HHs (subcategories: teamwork and awareness of the program). We conducted interviews on a rolling basis and made iterative changes to the program based on feedback.
Conclusions: This recognition program helped create a sense of value for clinicians and faculty in a large, geographically dispersed department. It represents a model that would be easy to replicate, requires no special training or significant financial investment, and can be implemented in a virtual format.
Language Policy in Russia after the Constitutional Amendments of 2020: Beginning of a New Stage?
Authors:   Institute of Linguistics RAS, Zamyatin Konstantin Yu.
Published: January 2023

Language policy of a state is often formed, pursued and perceived as a zero-sum game, when some actors advocate for the goal of language spread and some others for language maintenance. At the same time, the sides might reach a compromise to overcome the contradictions. Moreover, even when the formal goals contradict, the policies do not need be mutually exclusive in practice, because conflicting goals can also reflect a balance of interests. For example, Russia’s language policy in the post-Soviet period started under the conditions of decentralization of the 1990s from a compromise that at its core envisaged the contradicting policy goals: not only the preservation of the status quo with the general dominance of Russian, but also the spread of the titular languages of republics in the public sphere and the maintenance of other languages. Since the 2000s, the policy evolved under the conditions of recentralization and unification to the new emphasis on the spread of Russian often pursued at the expense of other languages. This article examines from the perspective of the dynamics of changes in the language policy of Russia in the post-Soviet period depending on policy goals the amendments to the Constitution of the Russian Federation of 2020. What implications the constitutional amendments have for language policy and is it possible to talk in connection with the amendments about a change in policy and a new stage?
Language Policy of the Republic of Kyrgyzstan for the Next Five Years: Priorities and Implementation
Authors:   Shanghai International Studies University, Tianju Wang ,   Lanzhou University
Published: January 2023

In 2020, the “Program of State Language Development and Improvement of Language Policy in the Kyrgyz Republic for 2021-2025” was officially published. This program is considered as a timely strategical adjustment of the language ecology, taking into account the achievements and problems of the current language policy, and also a continuation of its previous version. This article analyzes the historical context of language policy development, lists the priority areas and describes the main characteristics of the implementation of the Program. The following conclusions are given on the basis of analysis and statistics: the new policies are focusing on the increasing function of the Kyrgyz language, improving the quality of teaching, as well as attracting its wide and active use in the sociocultural sphere. The priorities of the Program include the following contents: strengthening the legal basis for the development of the Kyrgyz language, development of teaching methods and scientific style in Kyrgyz language, mobilization of massive social forces in the implementation of language policy and development of Kyrgyz language with the help of information technology. The process of implementing the Program is characterized by the emphasis on updating the methodological standard and improving the Kyrgyz language teaching quality in general education system.
Contemporary Language Policy of Turkmenistan
Authors:   Shihezi University, Xianmin Chang ,   Shanghai International Studies University, Helin Xia ,   Xinjiang Normal University
Published: January 2023

The article aims to analyze the evolution of language policy in Turkmenistan after its independence on the basis of the theory “language policy - a policy based on the need for identity and the need for mutual understanding, according to which language policy is seen as based on the interaction of two natural but opposing needs: the need for identity and the need for mutual understanding. The article considers two stages in the development of Turkmenistan’s language policy. The first stage is the time of S. Niyazov, when language policy was aimed at the need to construct a national identity. At the second stage (after G. M. Berdymukhamedov came to power), against the background of globalization, the need for mutual understanding with the outside world is emphasized in the language policy. Therefore, two changes are made in the language policy of Turkmenistan - great attention is paid to teaching foreign languages and Russian language teaching is restored in order to strengthen cooperation with international society and to participate more effectively in globalization. In short, in the context of nation-state building and the influence of globalization, coordinating the two opposing needs for languages becomes an urgent task in the language policy of today’s Turkmenistan.
The Language of Social Networks of Migrants from Central Asia in the Context of Russian Urban Multilingualism
Authors:   Institute of Linguistics of the RAS, Khilkhanova Erzhen V.
Published: January 2023

The article is devoted to the languages of communication of migrants from Central Asia in Russian migrant social networks. It also aims at finding out whether the migrants’ online communication reproduces oral offline communication in ethnic languages, negatively perceived by part of the population in Russian cities. Having analyzed the language of five open groups of Uzbek and Kyrgyz migrants in the social network VKontakte and in the Telegram chat “Zherdesh Moskva”, the author concludes that VKontakte functions primarily as an advertising and business platform where the Russian language prevails, along with which Uzbek and Kyrgyz languages and mixed language variants are used. Unlike open social networks, the function of intra-group, intra-ethnic online communication is performed by less public messengers and is carried out mainly in an ethnic language. Thus, migrant social networks are not an analogue of offline communication, and the massive presence of Russian in them is supported by historical, economic, and other factors. At the end, the author justifies the need for a more detailed study of the relationship between urban multilingualism, migration and computer-mediated communication.
New Goals and Methods of Language Policy Research
Authors:   Institute of Linguistics RAS, Bitkeeva Aysa N.
Published: January 2023

The article deals with the language problems of modern Russia in the context of new goals and methods of language policy research. In presentday conditions, the need for prognosis is actualized in order to increase the productivity of language policy measures,preventing ethnolinguistic conflicts. One of the ways to improve the effectiveness of language policy is considered in scenario method in regard of the development of language policy. The use of the scenario method for an expert assessment of the current language situation in the Russian Federation, its trends, ideologies and actors is one of the most efficient and should subsequently form the basis for language policy planning in the Russian Federation. In Russian and foreign scientific discourse, the issues of sociolinguistic prognosis have been poorely considered, therefore this scientific topic should be considered a new one, aimed at researching and forming the future of the languages of Russia. The article also considers the conceptual and methodological aspects of linguistic biography, on example of Taz ethnic group analyzes positive and critical discourses in the autobiographical narrations about native language, culture, historical memory, etc. Nowadays, in scientific discourse, linguistic biography is interpreted more broadly and develops especially actively in the context of interdisciplinary research. In this context,linguistic biography is understood as a linguistic reconstruction of the history of the people, as a rule, it does not have a specific textual form, it is projected through autobiographical narratives, in the form of long narrative texts. The main method of gaining knowledge about linguistic biography is interviews, broad autobiographical narratives, the central theme of which is language/ languages.
Urban Place Names as a Language Policy Issue
Authors:   Shanghai International Studies University, Qu Yue
Published: January 2023

The paper is devoted to the current problems of naming and renaming inner-city objects in the context of language policy, which are subject to deep reflection in the legal regulation of this issue. We will formulate these problems as follows: in real language discourse, there are contradictions between the norm of language and the native speaker’s right to choose and use the particular geographical name. In the field of urban toponymy, by norm we mean a set of uniform regulatory principles and rules for naming an inner-city object, established in legislation and other legal regulations. Speech practice shows that in some situations this norm is opposed to the usage or linguistic rights of the individual. Based on the analysis of such contradictions, we come to the conclusion that a carefully thought-out, balanced and flexible language policy is required for the legal regulation of emerging or potential conflicts about the names of urban space.
Toponyms of the Krasnoyarsk Territory in the Onomastic Consciousness of Chinese Tourists: Methods of Commercial Nomination in the Translation Aspect
Authors:   University of World Civilizations named after V.V. Zhirinovsky (UWC, Moscow), Chistova Elena V.
Published: January 2023

The paper raises questions of translation adaptation of bad-known or commercially ineffective toponyms-brands that pretend to be internationally promoted. The author presents methodology for studying the onomastic consciousness of a potential tourist for the purpose of strategic planning of the commercial toponymic nomination. Approbation of the methodology is shown on the example of toponyms of the Krasnoyarsk Kray in the perception of Chinese speakers. With the help of sociolinguistic and translation methods, it was found that 67% of the toponyms are unrepresentative and alien to potential Chinese tourists. Despite the use of neutral phonetics and formants indicating belonging to a category, toponyms are difficult to perceive due to cumbersome forms and unfavorable sound. As an effective translation solution, it is proposed to use “thinking transcriptions” and abbreviated alternative nominations of existing phonetic borrowings.
The Language Landscape of Modern Khorog: Toponymic Data
Authors:   Institute of Linguistics RAS, Dodykhudoeva Leyli R.
Published: January 2023

The work discusses the linguistic landscape of the city of Khorog, as well as the quality of the representation, in Russian and Tajik discourse, of the (micro)toponymic data of minority Iranian languages, in particular Shughnani. It describes current trends in (micro)toponymic nomenclature, as represented in maps of the region, as well as in written sources and fictional literature.
Methods for Measuring the Conflictogenic Potential of a Language Community
Authors:   Institute of Linguistics RAS, Kirilenko Svetlana V.
Published: January 2023

The article considers the language conflict as a sociolinguistic phenomenon, analyzes the factors that can potentially lead to the emergence of conflict moods among speakers in the language community. The author analyzes the “threat theory” as a tool for measuring the conflict potential of a language community. The stimuli accompanying the emergence of a language conflict in a language community are described. Those stimuli can later be analyzed as markers for measuring the conflict potential in the given language community. The article describes a technique that can act as a tool for measuring anxiety among groups of speakers. An analysis of the parameters collected during the field study is revealed in the article. One of the field studies was carried out in May–June 2021 in the Republic of Dagestan. Another one was held in October 2021 in the Republic of Tatarstan. Based on the data obtained from the field studies, two approaches were tested: measuring the level of “symbolic threats” and measuring the level of “real threats” in order to identify existing contradictions in the language community. The collected data showed that in the area of “real threats” there is a certain level of anxiety, while in the area of “symbolic threats” the situation is generally well–balanced.
Advantages and Limitations of UV Cross-linking Analysis of Protein-RNA Interactomes in Microbes
Authors: Granneman Sander , Esteban-Serna Sofia , McCaughan Hugh
Published: January 2023

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) govern the lifespan of nearly all
transcripts and play key roles in adaptive responses in microbes. A
robust approach to examine protein-RNA interactions involves irradiating
cells with UV light to form covalent adducts between RBPs and their
cognate RNAs. Combined with RNA or protein purification, these
procedures can provide global RBP censuses or transcriptomic maps for
all target sequences of a single protein in living cells. Recent
development of novel methods has quickly populated the RBP landscape in
microorganisms. Here, we provide an overview of prominent UV
cross-linking techniques which have been applied to investigate RNA
interactomes in microbes. By assessing their advantages and caveats,
this technical evaluation intends to guide the selection of appropriate
methods and experimental design as well as to encourage the use of
complementary UV-dependent techniques to inspect RNA-binding activity.
IL-21 boosts germinal center response through independent actions on T and B cells in a concentration-dependent manner
Authors: Waldetario Mariana C.G Miranda
Published: January 2023

Germinal centers (GC) are the sites of B cell clonal expansion, somatic
hypermutation and clonal selection, a process that leads to the
production of antibodies of higher affinity [1](#ref-0001). Efforts
have been made to understand the kinetic of events controlling the GC
and the production of specific antibodies in protective as well in
pathogenic responses, such as autoimmunity and allergy. The ability of
newly mutated GC clones to capture and present antigen to T follicular
helper cells (Tfh) in the light zone of the GC is crucial for clonal
survival and selection. Tfh cells produce IL-21, a key cytokine for the
GC reaction and antibody responses [2](#ref-0002). However, it was
not understood how IL-21 acts independently on T and B cells to mediate
the GC reaction. In this study Quast and colleagues [3](#ref-0003)
contribute to elucidate the specific role of IL-21 on the GC reaction
and how IL-21 bioavailability affects the outcome of the GC response.
They demonstrate that IL-21 influences Tfh cell differentiation and
expansion early, before the GC establishment, as well later during GC
development, through both autocrine and paracrine mechanisms, regardless
of cognate T-B cell interactions.
A comparable efficacy and safety between intracardiac echocardiography and transesophageal echocardiography for percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion
Authors: Wang Ru-xing , Zhang Zhi-Yuan , Li Feng , Zhang Jie , Zhang Lei , Liu Huan-Huan , Zhao Ning , Yang Fan , Kong Qi , Zhou Yi-Ting , Qian Ling-Ling
Published: January 2023

Background: Accumulated clinical studies utilize intracardiac
echocardiography (ICE) to guide percutaneous left atrial appendage
closure (LAAO), but its procedural success and safety compared to
traditional transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) remain elusive. We
performed a meta-analysis to compare efficacy and safety between ICE and
TEE for LAAO. Methods: Studies were screened with four online
databases (including the Cochrane Library, Embase, PubMed, and Web of
Science) from their inception to 1 December 2022. We utilized random or
fixed-effect model to synthesize the clinical outcomes. Subgroup
analysis was performed to screen the potential confounding factors.
Results: A total of twenty eligible studies with 3,610 atrial
fibrillation patients (1,564 patients for ICE and 2,046 patients for
TEE) were enrolled. Compared with TEE group, there was no significant
difference in procedural success rate (RR=1.01; 95% CI: 1.00,1.02;
P=0.171; I²=0.00%), total procedural time [weighted mean
difference (WMD) = -5.58; 95%CI: -15.97, 4.81; P=0.292;
I²=96.40%], contrast volume (WMD=-2.61; 95%CI: -12.25, 7.02;
P=0.595; I²=84.80%), and fluoroscopic time (WMD=-0.34; 95%CI:
−2.09, 1.41; P=0.705; I²=82.80%) in the ICE group. Subgroup
analysis revealed ICE showed less contrast use than TEE in the lower
proportion paroxysmal atrial fibrillation group and lower proportion
hypertension. Conclusion: Our study suggests that ICE may have
comparable efficacy and safety compared to TEE for LAAO.
Identifying Barriers To HPV Vaccination For Patients With Sickle Cell Disease And Childhood Cancer Survivors
Authors: Rahim Mahvish , Jacob Seethal , Coven Scott , Miller Meagan , Meagher Carolyn G. , Lozano Gabi , Zimet Gregory , Ott Mary A.
Published: January 2023

Background: Human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination prevents the
development of HPV-associated malignancies. Adolescent and young adult
(AYA) survivors of childhood cancers and patients with sickle cell
disease (SCD) are two vulnerable patient populations who would
significantly benefit from HPV vaccination. Objective: In this mixed
method study we determine the HPV vaccination rate amongst the AYA SCD
and childhood cancer survivor populations. We then sought to describe
patient and caregiver beliefs regarding HPV vaccination. Design/Method:
We performed a retrospective chart review looking at vaccination status
for patients seen in our clinics in 2019. Qualitative data was then
collected via audio recorded interviews. Interviews were analyzed with a
thematic content approach to understand attitudes regarding the HPV
vaccination. Results: We found a notable difference between the rate of
HPV vaccinations and other age-appropriate vaccinations in our childhood
cancers survivors and patients with SCD. Qualitative interviews found
that caregivers and AYA’s relied heavily on physician, recommendations
for HPV vaccination, with a preference for subspecialist recommendation.
A strong recommendation from a trusted subspecialty provider would
create reassurance about vaccination and reduce misconceptions and
concerns for side effects in the context of a chronic illness.
Conclusion: Counseling from subspecialists could have a strong impact on
understanding of the HPV vaccine in the context of chronic illness. This
would likely help overcome many of the barriers to vaccination that are
encountered by patients with SCD or oncology survivors.
Mechanotransduction in the urothelium
Authors: Li Xu , Hu Junwei , Wu Yuan , Yin Ping , Liu Lumin , Chen Yuelai
Published: January 2023

The urothelium, which covers the inner surface of the bladder, is
continuously exposed to a complex physical environment where it is
stimulated by and responds to a wide range of mechanical cues.
Mechanically activated ion channels allow the urothelium to convert
mechanical stimuli into biochemical events that influence its surface
area and the suburothelial tissues, including afferent nerve fibres,
interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) and detrusor smooth muscle cells.
This process ensures normal urinary function during the cycles of
filling and voiding. However, under prolonged and abnormal pathological
conditions, improper mechanotransduction may contribute to bladder
dysfunction, such as overactive bladder. In this review, we summarize
developments in the understanding of urothelial mechanotransduction.
First, we describe the adaptation of the urothelium to variations in
bladder volume during the micturition cycle via mechanotransduction
processes. Then, we review the effect of urothelial mechanotransduction
on suburothelial tissues. Finally, we focus on mechanically activated
ion channels present in the urothelium, primarily transient receptor
potential (TRP) channels and mechanosensitive Piezo channels, and the
potential pathophysiological role of these channels in the bladder. A
more thorough understanding of the urothelial mechanotransduction
function may inspire the creation of new therapies for lower urinary
tract diseases.
Applications of microbial lipids isolated from oleaginous microorganisms: a comparative review
Authors: MOKBUL MANSURA , Parhi Priyanka , Illingworth Kirsty
Published: January 2023

Microorganisms, such as yeasts, fungi, algae, and bacteria, have the
ability to produce and accumulate a variety of different lipids under
different cultivation conditions. These microbial lipids contain high
amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) comprising of omega-3 and
omega-6 classes, which are vital for numerous bodily functions, growth
and development. The human body is unable to synthesize these essential
fatty acids, therefore, they must be obtained from the diet. Seafood and
fish are the common and classical sources of PUFAs; however, microbial
lipids also represent a promising source. These valuable compounds have
applications in the cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical industries. This
paper reviews the critical factors associated with the use of various
oleaginous microorganisms for lipid production and their application in
industrial pharmaceuticals and nutraceutical products. In addition, the
review provides a comparative description of the fatty acid profiles of
various beneficial microorganisms, and their production processes. This
review will be beneficial for further research, as well as for
manufacturers and industries to select and work with various oleaginous
microorganisms to obtain desired products based on lipid profiles and
production processes.
A adaptive parameter selection strategy based on maximizing the probability of data for robust fluorescence molecular tomography reconstruction
Authors: Guo Hongbo , Li Jintao , Zhang Lizhi , Zhang |Diya , Kang Dizhen , Wang Beilei , He Xiaowei , Zhang Heng , Zhao Yizhe , Hou Yuqing
Published: January 2023

To alleviate the ill-posed of the inverse problem in Fluorescent
molecular tomography (FMT), many regularization methods based on L 2 or
L 1 norm have been proposed. Whereas, the quality of regularization
parameters affect the performance of the reconstruction algorithm. Some
classical parameter selection strategies usually need initialization of
parameter range and high computing costs, which is not universal in the
practical application of FMT. In this paper, an universally applicable
adaptive parameter selection method based on maximizing the probability
of data (MPD) strategy was proposed. This strategy used maximum a
posteriori (MAP) estimation and maximum likelihood (ML) estimation to
establish a regularization parameters model. The stable optimal
regularization parameters can be determined by multiple iterative
estimates. Numerical simulations and in vivo experiments show
that MPD strategy can obtain stable regularization parameters for both
regularization algorithms based on L 2 or L 1 norm and achieve good
reconstruction performance.
Expression data of FOS and JUN genes and FTIR spectra provide diagnosis of thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Canevari Renata de Azevedo , Queiroz João Paulo da Silva , Pupin Breno , Bhattacharjee Tanmoy , Uno Miyuki , Chammas Roger , Kulcsar Marco Aurélio Vamondes
Published: January 2023

We explore the feasibility of using FOS and JUN gene expression and
ATR-FTIR for diagnosis of thyroid cancer. For the
study, 38 samples (6 non-neoplastic (NN), 10 papillary thyroid carcinoma
(PTC), 7 follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC), and 15 benign tumors (BT)
were subjected to RNA extraction followed by quantitative real time PCR
(qRT-PCR) and 30 samples (5 NN, 9 PTC, 5 FTC, and 11 benign) were used
for Attenuated Total Reflectance – Fourier Transform Infrared
(ATR-FTIR) followed by multivariate analysis. We found FOS and JUN
expression in malignant tumor samples to be significantly lower than NN
and benign. ATR-FTIR after multivariate analysis could identify the
difficult to diagnose PTC with 93% efficiency.
Overall, results suggest the diagnostic potential of molecular biology
techniques combined with ATR-FTIR spectroscopy in differentiated thyroid
carcinomas (PTC and FTC) and benign tumors.
Comparative proteomics of vesicles essential for the egress of Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes from red blood cells
Authors: Pradel Gabriele , Sassmannshausen Juliane , Bennink Sandra , Distler Ute , Küchenhoff Juliane , Minns Allen M. , Lindner Scott E. , Burda Paul-Christian , Tenzer Stefan , Gilberger Tim W.
Published: January 2023

Transmission of malaria parasites to the mosquito is mediated by sexual
precursor cells, the gametocytes. Upon entering the mosquito midgut, the
gametocytes egress from the enveloping erythrocyte while passing through
gametogenesis. Egress follows an inside-out mode during which the
membrane of the parasitophorous vacuole ruptures prior to the
erythrocyte membrane. Membrane rupture requires the exocytosis of
specialized secretory vesicles of the parasites; i.e. the osmiophilic
bodies (OBs) involved in rupturing the parasitophorous vacuole membrane,
and vesicles (here termed g-exonemes) that harbour the perforin-like
protein PPLP2 required for erythrocyte lysis. While several OB proteins
are known, like G377 and MDV1/Peg3, the protein composition of the
g-exonemes remains unclear. Here, we used high-resolution imaging and
BioID methods to study the two types of egress vesicles in
Plasmodium falciparum gametocytes. We show that OB exocytosis
precedes discharge of the g-exonemes and that exocytosis of the
g-exonemes, but not of the OBs, is calcium-sensitive. Further, the two
types of vesicles exhibit distinct proteomes. In addition to known
egress-related proteins, our analyses revealed novel components of OBs
and g-exonemes, including proteins involved in vesicle trafficking. Our
data provide insight into the immense molecular machinery required for
the inside-out egress of P. falciparum gametocytes.
Transient Anosmia and dysgeusia in COVID-19 disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ali Fatema , Jassim Ghufran , Khalaf Zahra , Yusuf Manaf , Hamza Sara , Husain Nada , Ebrahim Fatema
Published: January 2023

Objective: This study aims to explore the prevalence of anosmia and
dysgeusia and their impact on COVID-19 patients. Design: This is a
cross-sectional study. Patients diagnosed with COVID-19 between 1st
October 2020 and 30th June 2021 were randomly selected from a national
COVID-19 registry. The Anosmia Reporting Tool and a brief version of the
questionnaire on olfactory disorders were used to measure the outcomes
via telephone interviews. Data were analyzed using SPSS 27 statistics
software. Results: A total of 405 COVID-19 adults were included in this
study, 220 (54.3%) were males and 185 (45.8%) were females. The
mean±SD age of participants was 38.2 ± 11.3 years. Alterations in the
sense of smell and taste were reported by 206 (50.9%), and 195 (48.1%)
of the patients respectively. Sex and nationality of participants were
significantly associated with anosmia and dysgeusia (p<0.001)
and (p-value=0.001) respectively. Among patients who experienced anosmia
and dysgeusia, alterations in eating habits (64.2%), impact on mental
wellbeing (38.9%), concerns that the alterations were permanent
(35.4%), and physical implications and difficulty performing activities
of daily living (34% ) were reported. Conclusion: Anosmia and dysgeusia
are prevalent symptoms of COVID-19 disease, especially among females.
Neuropsychological implications of COVID-19 in the acute infection phase
and prognosis of anosmia and dysgeusia in COVID-19 are areas for further
exploration.
Issues in Online Teaching: Elementary Teachers' Perspectives
Authors: Gregory Michael Adam Macur
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this study was to identify the main problems elementary teachers face when teaching online. 13 elementary teachers were interviewed and asked to list the main problems they face when teaching online. Their answers were grouped into the following groups: Assessing students; Behaviour; Communication; Engaging students; Incorporating social-emotional learning; Instructions, modelling, demonstrating; Motivating students; Organisation; Parents over or under support; Planning and delivering lessons; Supporting students; and Technology issues. Then, 554 elementary teachers were surveyed using Microsoft Forms. The findings indicated that the four main problems teachers face when teaching online are related to assessing students, engaging students, parents over or under support and technology. When teacher votes were grouped by country, the findings correlated cross-culturally at .92 correlation, indicating a correlation of significance. A secondary aim of the study was to find whether teachers felt as competent in the online teaching environment as they do in the traditional classroom. The survey showed that 55% of teachers did not feel as competent.
Assessment of Degree Colleges in the Transition Phase: A case study of degree colleges in the Makran Division
Authors: Manzoor Ahmed  , Mehnaz Bashir  , Muhammad Tariq
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this study was to assess the degree colleges’ preparation for the new transition phase, transferring the BA/BSc programs into ADA/ADS programs. The participants of this qualitative study were principals of Degree Colleges in the Makran division and data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Themes generated from data showed that degree colleges of the Makran division were not capable of starting the AD/ADS programs properly due to shortage of human and physical resources. The findings also identified that the principals serving these colleges were not involved in the decisions taken by Higher Education Commission for the degree colleges. Recommendations based on the findings indicate that degree colleges of the Makran region require more support and facilitation from Higher Education Commission and Provincial Government before the initiation of ADA/ADS Programs. The findings and recommendations will be helpful in the preparation of Degree colleges transferring from BA/BSc to ADA/ADS programs.
Stability and solubility test of endodontic materials
Authors: Matovic Ivan , Vucetic Jelena
Published: January 2023

Introduction. Good physicochemical properties of endodontic materials are one
of the main preconditions for successful endodontic treatment. Modern
endodontic materials are expected to have good adhesiveness, stability and
low solubility in order to enable high-quality and permanent obturation of
the root canal. The aim of this study was to test in vitro the stability and
degree of solubility of two endodontic materials: Mineral Trioxide Aggregate
(MTA) and Gutta Flow. Materials and methods. The solubility of endodontic
materials Mineral Trioxide Aggregate - MTA (Angelus) and Gutta Flow
(Colthane) was tested by the aging method using artificial saliva according
to the prescription of Ira and Shannon. Twelve samples of single-rooted
teeth (6 MTA, 6 Gutta Flow) were used. The samples were analyzed after 7,
14, 21, 28 and 35 days. After obturation, the samples were longitudinally
cut and filled with auto-polymerizing acrylate and stored in artificial
saliva at a temperature of 37? ?} 2? C. Results. The results of the analysis
of the longitudinal sections of the roots through MTA and Gutta Flow showed
the absence of damage to both endodontic materials after 14 days of exposure
to the artificial saliva. The appearance of the first morphological damage,
as well as the weakening of the bonding with dentin wall, were observed on
the 21st day with Gutta Flow, and on the 28th day with MTA from the
beginning of the experiment. After a period of 35 days, both materials
showed increased porosity, solubility and breaking of the bond with dentin
wall of the root canal. Conclusion. Based on the obtained results, it can be
concluded that MTA showed lower solubility and better adhesiveness with
dentin wall of the tooth root canal than Gutta Flow.