bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The short‐run response of Saudi Arabia stock market to the outbreak of COVID‐19 pandemic: An event‐study methodology
Authors: Sayed Omer Ahmed , Eledum Hussein
Published: February 2021

This paper investigates the short‐term response of the Saudi stock market (Tadawul) to the COVID‐19 outbreak. Event study methodology applied to data derived from the 21 industry groups that constitute the Saudi stock market to calculate abnormal returns for the trading days after the announcement of the COVID‐19 in both China and Saudi Arabia. The results indicate that the estimated CARs for the industry groups and their sum on the event day were not statistically significant. Furthermore, the formal announcement of the first case of the COVID‐19 in China had a negative but not significant impact on the Saudi stock market. In contrast, in the first 9‐days event window, the announcement of the first confirmed case in Saudi Arabia had a negative and significant effect. Moreover, the most negatively affected industry groups were banks, consumer services, capital goods, transportation and commercial services, whereas telecommunication services and food and beverage were positively affected at the event window (+1, +9). In general, the Saudi stock market's response had become weaker in the event windows come after (+1, +9), and different industry groups were found to have different responses to the COVID‐19 outbreak.
Human resources turnover as an asset acquisition and divestiture process: Evidence from the U.K. football industry
Authors: Fotaki Maria , Kourtis Apostolos , Markellos Raphael
Published: February 2021

We shed light on the drivers and consequences of turnover in human resources for the U.K. football industry. We employ an event study using daily panel data of player transfers for a group of listed U.K. football clubs. Our results suggest asymmetric wealth effects: the acquisition of players is associated with negative abnormal club stock returns while player sales have an opposite effect. According to our findings, shareholders perceive that football managers overpay to acquire human resources. Our discussion draws possible links to the corporate finance literature which deals with the purchase and sale of firms and assets.
The relationship among employee mobility and corporate governance: Evidence from Taiwan's food industry and technology industry
Authors: Lee Joe‐Ming
Published: February 2021

This research investigates the relationships among operating environment, corporate governance, and employee mobility in Taiwan's food industry and technology industry. Findings show that both industry concentration and operating environment have a significant relationship with employee mobility, implying that when a firm has a market share advantage, then it should provide a better welfare mechanism. Corporate governance also has an impact on employee mobility. When the shareholding ratios of major shareholders and managers increase, more attention should be paid to the promotion and feedback mechanism of grassroots employees. Thus, corporate governance should be designed to take into account shareholder expectations and employee stability. From the empirical results, we see that the conditions of corporate governance are important factors affecting employee mobility. This study compares the food industry and the technology industry and finds that the relationship between corporate governance and employee mobility runs in opposite directions between the two industries, which means that corporate governance in the technology industry and the food industry exhibits different benefits.
The effect of financial sector development on economic growth of selectedsub‐SaharanAfrica countries
Authors: Taddese Bekele Dagim , Abebaw Degu Adisu
Published: February 2021

The effect of financial sector development on economic growth is among the main debatable issue in economics and policymaking. Thus, by using different financial sector dimensions, this research tried to look at the effect of financial sector development on the economic growth of 25 sub‐Saharan Africa countries for the period 2010–2017. Precisely, three dynamic panel data models that look at the effect of financial sector depth, access, and efficiency on economic growth were estimated by two‐step system GMM estimation. In this research, credit extended to the private sector per GDP, commercial bank branch per 100,000 adult population, and Return to assets were used as a proxy and measures for financial sector depth, access, and efficiency respectively. Accordingly, the results revealed that financial sector depth, access, and efficiency have a positive and statistically significant effect on these countries' economic growth. Therefore, it is recommended that the concerned bodies that broadening the depth of financial institutions by giving more credit to the private sector is essential. Besides, the financial institutions will have to be expanded to increase their accessibility to the mass and take some measures to promote their efficiency.
Let's Talk About Sex: Counselling Muslim Selves Online
Authors: Abdel-Fadil Mona
Published: February 2021

Islam Online Arabic, and particularly the counselling service Problems and Solutions, received harsh critique for being too ‘open’ or even ‘un-Islamic’ in their views and dealings with sensitive topics, not least with regards to sexuality. The counselling service Problems and Solutions can be considered the emblem of Islam Online's efforts to unite secular and Islamic perspectives and relate to contemporary Muslims’ real lives and problems. Counsellors argue that there is a total lack of sexual education in the Arab world, a problem which must be faced head on. Problems and Solutions questioners could ask the most intimate of questions without shame or embarrassment. This article provides an overview of the types of questions about sexuality and sexual relations that questioners sent to Problems and Solutions counsellors. Moreover, the analysis sheds light on: 1) the various aspects of contemporary Arab marriages and taboo-ridden sexuality which counsellors believe to be detrimental to marriages, and 2) a variety of proposed local remedies, including encouraging men to aspire to the ‘new man’ ideal.
Deciphering excited state properties utilizing algebraic diagrammatic construction schemes of decreasing order
Authors: Hoffmann Marvin , Dreuw Andreas
Published: February 2021

Excited state properties are difficult to trace back to the common molecular orbital picture when the excited state wavefunction is a linear combination of two or more Slater determinants. Here, a theoretical methodology is introduced based on the algebraic diagrammatic construction scheme for the polarization propagator (ADC(n)) that allows to make this connection and to eventually derive structure–function relationships. The usefulness of this approach is demonstrated by an analysis of the transition dipole moments of the low‐lying 1B3u and 2B3u states of anthracene and (1,4,5,8)‐tetraazaanthracene.
Efficient alcoholysis of furfuryl alcohol to n‐butyl levulinate catalyzed by 5‐sulfosalicylic acid
Authors: Zhao Wenguang , Ding Hui , Tian Yi , Xu Qiong , Liu Xianxiang
Published: February 2021

It is urgent to study the utilization of biomass energy to solve the environmental problems caused by the excessive use of fossil fuels. In this study, a rapid and efficient route for the conversion of furfuryl alcohol (FA) into n‐butyl levulinate (BL) has been catalyzed by 5‐sulfosalicylic acid. The nearly complete conversion of FA and a considerable 99.7% selectivity of BL are obtained under the optimal conditions. Based on the experimental results, a possible mechanism for the alcoholysis of FA is proposed. The present study provided a promising way for alkyl levulinates synthesis over economical and environmentally benign catalysts.
Preliminary clinical study of the safety of hepatectomy predicted by gadolinium‐ethoxybenzyl‐diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid‐enhanced T1 mapping magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Liu Jiao , Li Qingtao , Shi Nannan , Chen Yi , Li Yesheng , Zhang Meng , Huang Yangqing
Published: February 2021

Background and Aim

Studies have found that gadolinium‐ethoxybenzyl‐diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd‐EOB‐DTPA)‐enhanced T1 mapping magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could assess liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and function with high effectiveness. The aim of this study is to explore the efficacy of MRI in predicting the safety of hepatectomy.

Methods

Forty‐nine patients who underwent liver resection were recruited. Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced MRI examination was performed 1 week before surgery, and the rate of T1 relaxation time reduction (ΔT120min%) of liver parenchyma was calculated. Posthepatectomy liver failure (PHLF) was defined by the “50–50 criteria” and International Study Group of Liver Surgery (ISGLS) classification, respectively, and posthepatectomy complications (PHC) were defined by the Clavien‐Dindo grading system. The effectiveness of ΔT120min% in predicting the occurrence of PHLF and PHC was analyzed.

Results

The area under the curve (AUC) for ΔT120min% predicting PHLF meeting “50–50 criteria” was 0.957, with a cutoff value of 0.497, sensitivity of 100%, and specificity of 89.1%. The AUC for predicting ISGLS grade B/C (severe) PHLF was 0.84, with a cutoff value of 0.5232, sensitivity of 63.6%, and specificity of 92.6%. The AUC for predicting PHC of Clavien‐Dindo grades 3–5 (severe) was 0.882, with a cutoff value of 0.5646, sensitivity of 87.5%, and specificity of 75.8%. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that ΔT120min% < 0.4970 (P < 0.01) was an independent risk factor for the development of PHLF (50–50 criteria). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that liver stiffness measurement and ΔT120min% were risk factors for severe PHLF and severe PHC.

Conclusions

Gd‐EOB‐DTPA‐enhanced T1 mapping MRI accurately predicts the safety of hepatectomy.
Variants in TNF and NOS3 (eNOS) genes associated with sepsis in adult patients
Authors: Özkan Mustafa , Günay Nurullah , Sener Elif Funda , Karcıoglu Özgür , Tahtasakal Reyhan , Dal Fatma , Günay Nahide Ekici , Demiryürek Abdullah Tuncay
Published: February 2021

Background

Sepsis is a life‐threatening condition caused by a dysregulated host response to infections and is a leading cause of death in hospitalized patients. The present study aimed to elucidate the possible association between sepsis and the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) gene –308G/A (rs1800629) polymorphism, as well as endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS, NOS3) gene –786T/C (rs2070744), 4a/4b (27 bp‐VNTR in intron 4, rs61722009) and 894G/T (Glu298Asp, rs1799983) polymorphisms.

Methods

In total, 188 septic adult cases and 188 healthy controls were enrolled. Genomic DNAs from the controls and patients were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism methods.

Results

There were significant associations between the G/G genotype and G allele of the TNF –308G/A (rs1800629) polymorphism in the sepsis group (p < 0.001). The presence of the T/C genotype (p = 0.002) and C allele (p = 0.001) of the –786T/C (rs2070744) was markedly associated with an increased risk of sepsis. However, no significant associations were found with 4a/4b (27 bp‐VNTR in intron 4, rs61722009) and 894G/T (Glu298Asp, rs1799983) polymorphisms. Higher 4bGC and lower 4bTT haplotype frequencies were associated with sepsis.

Conclusions

Our results strongly suggest that TNF gene (−308G/A, rs1800629) and NOS3 gene –786T/C (rs2070744) polymorphisms may modify individual susceptibility to sepsis in the Turkish population.
Serum sphingolipid profile in asthma
Authors: Guo Chenglin , Sun Lina , Zhang Linlin , Dong Fawu , Zhang Xu , Yao Liu , Chang Chun
Published: February 2021

Sphingolipids metabolism is an important cell process and plays critical roles in asthma. However, the involvement of sphingolipids in the pathogenesis of asthma and its subtypes is unknown. The present study aimed to determine the role of sphingolipids in asthma and its subtypes. Clinical data from 51 asthma patients and 9 healthy individuals were collected and serum samples were performed to analyze the levels of serum sphingolipids by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry-based targeted metabolomics. Results showed that the levels of sphingomyelin (SM) including SM34:2, SM38:1, and SM40:1 were significantly decreased in asthmatic patients compared to healthy controls. Moreover, serum SM levels were obviously decreased in the blood noneosinophilic asthma (bNEA) group compared with blood eosinophilic asthma group. Similar tendencies of serum SM level changes were observed in the early-onset group compared with late-onset group. Correlation analysis revealed that SM 40:1 was negatively related to sputum IL-17A (r = −0.621, P = 0.042). The present study presented that the SM may be a protective factor of asthma and contributes to the mechanism of asthma, especially bNEA. SM may be a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in asthma.
Utility of absolute apparent diffusion coefficient and chemical‐shift imaging versus CT attenuation for predicting malignancy from percutaneous bone biopsies
Authors: Sebro Ronnie , Ashok S. Sharon
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Bone lesions are sometimes detected on computed tomography studies, and biopsies are performed to evaluate whether these are malignant. The aim of the study is to evaluate whether chemical‐shift imaging (CSI) and diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are more informative than the CT attenuation for predicting malignancy.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of 86 patients who underwent both diagnostic CT, CSI MRI and DWI MRI within 6 weeks prior to bone biopsy at a tertiary care academic institution between 01/01/2010 and 03/01/2020. The CT attenuation, signal intensity on in‐phase sequences (SIIP), signal intensity on out‐of‐phase sequences (SIOP), signal intensity ratio (SIR = SIOP/SIIP) and the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of the lesions over the region of the biopsy tract were measured.

Results

A threshold CT attenuation of 157 Hounsfield Units (HU) had a sensitivity of 47.7%, specificity of 83.3% and area under the curve (AUC) of 0.59. A threshold ADC of 793 × 10−6 mm2/s had a sensitivity of 75.8%, specificity of 85.7% and AUC of 0.83 to predict whether a bone biopsy would detect malignancy. A threshold SIR of 0.949 had a sensitivity of 77.8%, specificity of 77.8% and AUC of 0.81 to predict whether a bone biopsy would detect malignancy. ADC (P = 0.029) and SIR (P = 0.009) were significantly better than CT attenuation. There was no predictive difference between SIR and ADC (P = 0.742).

Conclusions

The CT attenuation of a lesion is a poor predictor of malignancy in bone lesions. CSI and DWI are significantly better for predicting malignancy.
Olfactory ensheathing cells: Unique glial cells promising for treatments of spinal cord injury
Authors: Ursavas Selin , Darici Hakan , Karaoz Erdal
Published: February 2021

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is generally the consequence of physical damage, which may result in devastating consequences such as paraplegia or paralysis. Some certain candidates for SCI repair are olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs), which are unique glial cells located in the transition region of the peripheral nervous system and central nervous system and perform neuron regeneration in the olfactory system throughout life. Culture studies have clarified many properties of OECs, but their mechanisms of actions are not fully understood. Successful results achieved in animal models showcased that SCI treatment with OEC transplants is suitable for clinical trials. However, clinical trials are limited by difficulties like cell acquisition for autograft transplantation. Despite the improvements in both animal and clinical studies so far, there is still insufficient information about the mechanism of actions, adverse effects, proper application methods, effective subtypes, and sources of cells. This review summarizes pre‐clinical and clinical literature focused on the cellular characterization of both OECs in vitro and post‐transplantation. We highlight the roles and effects of OECs on (a) the injury‐induced glial milieu, (b) neuronal growth/regeneration, and (c) functional recovery after injury. Due to the shown benefits of OECs with in vitro and animal studies and a limited number of clinical trials, where safety and effectivity were shown, it is necessary to conduct more studies on OECs to obtain effective and feasible treatment methods.
Reconstruction of subglacial depositional conditions based on the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility: an example from Dębe (central Poland)
Authors: Teodorski Artur , Dzierżek Jan , Ziółkowski Piotr
Published: February 2021

The analysis of low‐field anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility (AMS) was used to reconstruct the subglacial deposition conditions during the Main Stadial of the Odranian Glaciation (MIS 6) in till deposits from a site in Dębe (central Poland). Based on the AMS parameters, six till beds were identified (intervals 1–6). The declination of the maximum magnetic susceptibility axis (k1) indicates that the ice sheet was moving in from the northwest. The obtained results confirm the thesis about the preferred direction of ice‐sheet transgression during the Odranian Glaciation (MIS 6) in this part of Poland. This interpretation is also confirmed by data obtained from measurements of the long axis of clasts, which agree with the orientation of k1. Based on the AMS results, a significant part of the profile was deformed through simple shear and direct interaction of the ice sheet with the underlying sediment (beds 2–5). The lowest part of the till (bed 6) may have been deposited on a southeast‐trending slope or post‐depositional deformed by uneven loading of the ice cover. The upper part of the profile (especially in interval 1) could be deposited with an impact of pore water.
Effect of Therapeutic Ultrasound on the Release of Insulin, Glucagon, and Alpha‐Amylase from Ex Vivo Pancreatic Models
Authors: Suarez‐Castellanos Ivan , Singh Tania , Chatterjee Bhowmick Diti , Cohen Joshua , Jeremic Aleksandar , Zderic Vesna
Published: February 2021

Objectives

Our previously published studies showed the potential of therapeutic ultrasound (US) as a novel non‐pharmacological alternative for the treatment of secretory deficiencies in type 2 diabetes. Despite showing enhanced insulin release from beta cells, these studies did not explore the potential effects of US treatment on other cells in the islets of Langerhans such as glucagon‐secreting alpha cells or acinar cells of the exocrine pancreas.

Methods

We applied US parameters found capable of safely stimulating insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells (f = 800 kHz, ISPTA = 0.5–1 W/cm2, 5 minutes) to a diced rabbit pancreas model in culture plates (n = 6 per group). Released quantities of insulin and glucagon in response to US treatment were measured by collecting aliquots of the extracellular medium prior to the start of the treatment (t = 0 minute), immediately after treatment (t = 5 minutes) and 30 minutes after the end of treatment (t = 35 minutes). Potential release of digestive enzyme alpha‐amylase as a result of US treatment was evaluated in rabbit pancreas experiments. Preliminary studies were also performed in a small number of human pancreatic islets in culture plates (n = 3 per group). The general integrity of the US‐treated rabbit pancreatic tissue and human pancreatic islets was evaluated through histological analysis.

Results

While sham‐treated rabbit pancreas samples showed decreased extracellular insulin content, there was an increase in insulin release at t = 5 minutes from samples treated with US at 800 kHz and 1 W/cm2 (P <.005). Furthermore, no further insulin release was detected at t = 35 minutes. No statistically significant difference in extracellular glucagon and alpha‐amylase concentrations was observed between US‐treated and sham rabbit pancreas groups. Preliminary studies in human islets appeared to follow trends observed in rabbit pancreas studies. Islet and other pancreatic tissue integrity did not appear to be affected by the US treatment.

Conclusion

A potential US‐based strategy for enhanced insulin release would require optimization of insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells while minimizing glucagon and pancreatic enzyme secretions.
24‐Hour Ambulatory Blood Pressure Variability in Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Kang Kun‐Tai , Chiu Shuenn‐Nan , Weng Wen‐Chin , Lee Pei‐Lin , Hsu Wei‐Chung
Published: February 2021

Objective

To evaluate blood pressure (BP) variability in 24‐hour ambulatory BP monitoring in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Study Design

Case series study.

Methods

Children aged 4 to 16 years with clinical symptoms were recruited in a tertiary medical center. Overnight polysomnography and 24‐hour recordings of ambulatory BP were performed for each child. The severity of OSA was classified as primary snoring (apnea‐hypopnea index [AHI] < 1), mild OSA (1 ≤ AHI < 5), moderate OSA (10 > AHI ≥ 5), and severe OSA (AHI ≥ 10). The standard deviation of mean BP was used as an indicator of BP variability.

Results

A total of 550 children were included (mean age: 7.6 years; 70% were boys; 20% were obese). Compared with the children with primary snoring, children with severe OSA exhibited significantly higher nighttime systolic BP (108.0 vs. 100.5 mmHg, P < .001), nighttime diastolic BP (58.9 vs 55.6 mmHg, P = .002), nighttime mean arterial pressure (75.3 vs. 70.5 mmHg, P < .001), nighttime systolic BP load (40.5% vs. 25.0%, P < .001), nighttime diastolic BP load (25.3% vs. 12.9%, P < .001), and nighttime systolic BP variability (11.4 vs. 9.6, P = .001). Multiple linear regression analyses revealed an independent association between AHI and nighttime systolic BP variability (regression coefficient = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.06–0.56, P = .015) after adjustment for age, gender, adiposity, and hypertensive status.

Conclusions

OSA in children is associated with increased BP and BP variability.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 131:2126–2132, 2021
Beall's legacy in the battle against predatory publishers
Authors: Kendall Graham
Published: February 2021

Between 2009 and 2012, Jeffrey Beall published four articles which analysed 18 publishers (17 of which he identified as predatory). He also introduced the term predatory in the context of scientific publishing. In 2012, he started Beall's List, which maintained a list of predatory publishers and journals. This became a valuable resource for those who wanted to know if a journal was legitimate, although others were very critical of the list. This article considers what he wrote and the list he developed and the criticisms that have been levelled against Beall's list. Beall's legacy can be considered to ensure that the problems of fraudulent or inappropriate publishing practices are highlighted and that the scientific community remains aware of the problem. Unfortunately, his legacy has not led to an eradication of predatory journals, and the problem appears to have become worse in the past decade. Although there is opportunity to build on his legacy, there have been few practical moves, and this article suggests that there is an opportunity for clearer, more universally accepted guidelines and approval criteria for quality journals.
Hydroacoustic Autonomous boat for Remote fish detection in LakE (HARLE), an unmanned autonomous surface vehicle to monitor fish populations in lakes
Authors: Goulon Chloé , Le Meaux Olivier , Vincent‐Falquet Romain , Guillard Jean
Published: February 2021

To evaluate the aquatic ecosystem's quality and ensure the sustainable management of fisheries, it is important to monitor fish populations. Hydroacoustics uses sound waves to noninvasively scan and gather information on waterbodies including fish abundance and distribution. Unmanned surface vehicles (USV) have been increasingly used in marine and freshwater environments to enable data collection. We provide a detailed description of a new USV called Hydroacoustic Autonomous boat for Remote fish detection in LakE (HARLE), which is devoted to hydroacoustic studies in freshwater. The USV is electrically powered and equipped with the most modern fishery scientific echosounder, suitable for broadband applications, the EK80 (SIMRAD). The USV was used for a conventional hydroacoustic survey in a peri‐alpine lake to investigate its potential to monitor fish populations in lakes. In the lower layer of the lake where there were numerous targets and comparisons were possible, hydroacoustic metrics and fish biomass values (kg ha−1) from the SIMRAD EK80 on board the USV and EK60 on board the research vessel were similar. We showed that the HARLE has great potential to be used as a tool for fish monitoring and hydroacoustic survey in freshwater.
Temperature‐Controlled Adhesion to Carbohydrate Functionalized Microgel Films: An E. coli and Lectin Binding Study
Authors: Paul Tanja J. , Strzelczyk Alexander K. , Schmidt Stephan
Published: February 2021

The preparation of thermoresponsive mannose functionalized monolayers of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) microgels and the analysis of the specific binding of concanavalin A (ConA) and E. coli above and below the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) are shown. Via inhibition and direct binding assays it is found that ConA binding is time‐dependent, where at short incubation times binding is stronger above the LCST. Given larger incubation times, the interaction of ConA to the microgel network is increased below the LCST when compared to temperatures above the LCST, possibly due to increased ConA diffusion and multivalent binding in the more open microgel network below the LCST. For E. coli, which presents only monovalent lectins and is too large to diffuse into the network, binding is always enhanced above the LCST. This is due to the larger mannose density of the microgel layer above the LCST increasing the interaction to E. coli. Once bound to the microgel layer above the LCST, E. coli cannot be released by cooling down below the LCST. Overall, this suggests that the carbohydrate presenting microgel layers enable specific binding where the temperature‐induced transition between swollen and collapsed microgels may increase or decrease binding depending on the receptor size.
The Weil–Petersson current on Douady spaces
Authors: Axelsson Reynir , Schumacher Georg
Published: February 2021

The Douady space of compact subvarieties of a Kähler manifold is equipped with the Weil–Petersson current, which is everywhere positive with local continuous potentials, and of class when restricted to the locus of smooth fibers. There a Quillen metric is known to exist, whose Chern form is equal to the Weil–Petersson form. In the algebraic case, we show that the Quillen metric can be extended to the determinant line bundle as a singular hermitian metric. On the other hand the determinant line bundle can be extended in such a way that the Quillen metric yields a singular hermitian metric whose Chern form is equal to the Weil–Petersson current. We show a general theorem comparing holomorphic line bundles equipped with singular hermitian metrics which are isomorphic over the complement of a snc divisor B. They differ by a line bundle arising from the divisor and a flat line bundle. The Chern forms differ by a current of integration with support in B and a further current related to its normal bundle. The latter current is equal to zero in the case of Douady spaces due to a theorem of Yoshikawa on Quillen metrics for singular families over curves.
Application of a semi‐automatic, intensive follow‐up for improving efficacy and adherence of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Yao , Yuan Hongxun , Ye Hui , Shi Zongming , Deng Xin , Zhang Xuezhi , Hou Xikang
Published: February 2021

A complete understanding and good adherence are crucial for successful Helicobacter pylori eradication. Proper frequency of reminders might be helpful to both doctors and patients to maintain adherence during treatment. The study was to evaluate the influence of an intensive follow‐up system based on a clinical database on H. pylori eradication therapy. A total of 196 eligible patients were equally and randomly divided into an intensive follow‐up group and a control group. Both groups were administered bismuth‐containing quadruple therapy for 14 days. Patients in the intensive follow‐up group were informed of pre‐treatment, including the duration and potential adverse events. Subsequently, they received telephone follow‐ups on days 3 and 14 and 3 days before the urea breath test (UBT). The time points were automatically reminded by a follow‐up system in the established clinical database. The control group was only informed of pre‐treatment information. UBT was performed 4 weeks after treatment in both groups to assess the presence of H. pylori. The eradication rate, patient compliance, and adverse events were calculated and compared. The H. pylori eradication rates of the intensive follow‐up and control groups were 94.7% (90/95, 95% CI: 90%–99%) and 92.9% (78/84, 95% CI: 87%–98%), respectively, by PP analysis (p = 0.601), and 91.8% (90/98, 95% CI: 86%–97%) and 81.6% (80/98, 95% CI: 74%–89%) by ITT analysis (p = 0.035). Adverse events occurred in 9 intensive follow‐up group patients and 12 in the control group. Adherence was 96.9% (95/98) in the intensive follow‐up group and 85.7% (84/98) in the control group. Semi‐automatic intensive follow‐up contributed to a higher eradication rate and adherence to H. pylori treatment.
An economic analysis of information security investment decision making for substitutable enterprises
Authors: Li Xiaotong , Xue Qianyao
Published: February 2021

As the competition among enterprises is increasingly fierce, the substitution of information assets makes the behavior of hackers and enterprises more complicated in the information security investment decision‐making process. In this paper, a game model of substitutable enterprise information security investment decision making is constructed by considering the influencing of substitution rate among enterprises, enterprise quantity, and probability of hacker invasion, and the optimal investment level is analyzed among substitutable enterprises under individual decision and joint decision based on game theory, optimization theory, and synergy theory. This research provides a new solution of information security investment decision making among substitutable enterprises.
The Yin and Yang of traditional Chinese and Western medicine
Authors: Fu Rao , Li Jie , Yu Huatao , Zhang Yang , Xu Zhihong , Martin Cathie
Published: February 2021

The success of Western Scientific approaches to medicine, over the last 150 years, can be measured by substantial increases in life expectancy, reductions in infant mortality and the virtual elimination of many infectious diseases accompanied by development of effective management practices for noncommunicable diseases. However, major challenges remain in the form of infectious diseases that evolve resistance to pharmaceuticals rapidly, new diseases, particularly those caused by viruses and effective long‐term treatments for chronic, noncommunicable diseases. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can offer complementary treatments based on personalised interventions, informed by knowledge accumulated from empirical observations gathered over centuries of practice, that address the impact of disease on the whole body.

We provide examples of both infectious and noncommunicable diseases where the combination of Western Scientific Medicine (WSM) and TCM can benefit patients in terms of the speed and efficacy of recovery or disease management. TCM is a healing skill based on practice, while WSM is scientific, based on experiments. Against this background, an understanding of the mechanisms of action of traditional Chinese medicinal preparations will offer fresh routes to discovery and development of new therapeutics as well as patented medical prescriptions, which will rely heavily on modern scientific methodologies for their adoption and success, particularly those in plant genomics, plant breeding and synthetic biology.
Identification and characterization of six β‐crystallin gene mutations associated with congenital cataract in Chinese families
Authors: Yu Yinhui , Qiao Yue , Ye Yang , Li Jinyu , Yao Ke
Published: February 2021

Background

This study aims to identify the underlying genetic defects of β‐crystallin (CRYB) genes responsible for congenital cataracts in a group of Chinese families.

Methods

Detailed family history and clinical data of six Chinese families with autosomal dominant congenital cataracts were recorded. Targeted exome sequencing was applied to detect the underlying genetic defects for the families. Generated variants were confirmed by PCR and sanger sequencing. Afterward, bioinformatic analysis through several computational predictive programs was performed to assess impacts of mutations on protein structure and function.

Results

A total of 53 participants (23 affected and 30 unaffected) from six unrelated Chinese families were recruited. Cataract phenotypes covered nuclear, total, posterior polar, pulverulent, snowflake‐like, and zonular. Through targeted exome sequencing, six mutations in four β‐crystallin genes were revealed which included five missense mutations CRYBB1 p.Q70P, CRYBB2 p.E23Q, CRYBB2 p.A49V, CRYBB2 R188C, CRYBA4 p.M14K and one splice mutation CRYBB3 c.75+1 G>A. In silico results predicted pathogenic for all four missense variants except variant CRYBB2‐p.A49V yielded results as tolerant. The CRYBB3 c.75+1 G>A splice site mutation was predicted to be deleterious by leading to a broken splice site, a premature stop codon, and subsequently resulting in a short peptide of 113 amino acids, which may affect protein features.

Conclusion

The obtained results expanded mutational and phenotype spectrum of β‐crystallin genes and offer clues for pathogenesis of congenital cataracts. The data also demonstrated that targeted exome sequencing is valuable for providing molecular diagnostic information for congenital cataract patients.
Vitamin D status and CYP27B1‐1260 promoter polymorphism in Tunisian patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Fakhfakh Raouia , Feki Sawsan , Elleuch Aida , Neifar Manel , Marzouk Sameh , Elloumi Nesrine , Hachicha Hend , Abida Olfa , Bahloul Zouhir , Ayadi Fatma , Masmoudi Hatem
Published: February 2021

Aim

An association between serum vitamin D (Vit D) levels and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has been reported by several studies that suggested the involvement of genetically determined characteristics of enzymes of vitamin D metabolism. Our study aimed to evaluate the relationship between 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) level, the most representative metabolite of VitD status, and polymorphism of the cytochrome P450, CYP27B1 gene, which influence vitamin D metabolism, and serum levels, in SLE Tunisian patients.

Material and Methods

A cross‐sectional study has been conducted in SLE patients (supplemented and not supplemented patients), matched to healthy controls by age and gender. The 25[OH]D serum level was measured by chemiluminescence assay and CYP27B1‐1260 genetic polymorphism was carried out using PCR‐RFLP methods. Statistical analysis was made using Shesis and SPSS.20 Software.

Results

Controls and Vit D not supplemented patients’ groups presented the highest percentage of hypovitaminosis D. A significant difference in the mean level of circulating 25[OH]D between Vit D supplemented SLE patients and controls was observed (23.91 ng/ml and 7.18 ng/ml, respectively p = 3.4 105). Our results showed a correlation of high 25[OH]D level with complement component 3 levels and prednisolone drug. Moreover, the analysis of CYP27B1‐1260 polymorphism in SLE patients and controls revealed a nonsignificant allelic or genotypic association.

Conclusion

Despite the sunny climate, the high prevalence of Vit D deficiency is common in Tunisia. This hypovitaminosis D feature may affect the Vit D levels in our SLE patients but a direct association with the disease or with the genetically determined features remains unclear. More studies are needed to establish thresholds and susceptibility genes according to the characteristics of each population.
Study of one‐dimensional contaminant transport in soils using fractional calculus
Authors: Mirza Itrat Abbas , Akram Muhammad Saeed , Shah Nehad Ali , Akhtar Shehraz , Muneer Mirfat
Published: February 2021

In this communication, the soil contamination transport phenomenon is studied using fractional calculus. Specifically, a variant of non‐integer fractional derivative known as Antangana–Baleanu fractional derivative is applied on one‐dimensional advection diffusion equation to obtain a fractional model for the contaminant transport in soils. This fractional model is examined under the hypothesis of initial and generalized Robin type boundary conditions. The analytical expression of solution for contaminant transport in soil is derived for the fractional initial‐boundary value problem for partial differential equation (PDE) of mixed type using integral transforms, namely, Laplace and finite sine–cosine Fourier transforms. The solution of the ordinary advection diffusion equation arises as a case of the obtained solution. The numerical results are obtained for initial concentrated loading and Heaviside unit step function as a boundary conditions, from the analytical solution for various parameters of interest, and the corresponding graphs are plotted with the help of software MATHCAD. The graphs illustrate that the memory effects are remarkable for small values of time and ordinary for large values of the time.
Region‐optimized virtual (ROVir) coils: Localization and/or suppression of spatial regions using sensor‐domain beamforming
Authors: Kim Daeun , Cauley Stephen F. , Nayak Krishna S. , Leahy Richard M. , Haldar Justin P.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

In many MRI scenarios, magnetization is often excited from spatial regions that are not of immediate interest. Excitation of uninteresting magnetization can complicate the design of efficient imaging methods, leading to either artifacts or acquisitions that are longer than necessary. While there are many hardware‐ and sequence‐based approaches for suppressing unwanted magnetization, this paper approaches this longstanding problem from a different and complementary angle, using beamforming to suppress signals from unwanted regions without modifying the acquisition hardware or pulse sequence. Unlike existing beamforming approaches, we use a spatially invariant sensor‐domain approach that can be applied directly to raw data to facilitate image reconstruction.

Theory and Methods

We use beamforming to linearly mix a set of original coils into a set of region‐optimized virtual (ROVir) coils. ROVir coils optimize a signal‐to‐interference ratio metric, are easily calculated using simple generalized eigenvalue decomposition methods, and provide coil compression.

Results

ROVir coils were compared against existing coil‐compression methods, and were demonstrated to have substantially better signal suppression capabilities. In addition, examples were provided in a variety of different application contexts (including brain MRI, vocal tract MRI, and cardiac MRI; accelerated Cartesian and non‐Cartesian imaging; and outer volume suppression) that demonstrate the strong potential of this kind of approach.

Conclusion

The beamforming‐based ROVir framework is simple to implement, has promising capabilities to suppress unwanted MRI signal, and is compatible with and complementary to existing signal suppression methods. We believe that this general approach could prove useful across a wide range of different MRI applications.
Longitudinal study of sub‐regional cerebral viscoelastic properties of 5XFAD Alzheimer's disease mice using multifrequency MR elastography
Authors: Majumdar Shreyan , Klatt Dieter
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To study sub‐regional, longitudinal changes occurring inside brains of 5XFAD mice, an Alzheimer’s disease (AD) model, based on viscoelastic parameters derived using MR elastography and their spatial variation.

Methods

Female 5XFAD and non‐transgenic B6SJLF1/J mice as controls (n = 9 for both groups) were used for the study. Scans were performed inside a 9.4T preclinical MRI scanner using SampLe Interval Modulation‐magnetic resonance elastography (SLIM‐MRE). Experiments were performed at ages 2, 4, and 6 mo, and by using three actuation frequencies: 900, 1000, and 1100 Hz. Multifrequency dual elasto‐visco (MDEV) reconstruction was used to combine 3D multifrequency MRE data and calculate magnitude , and phase angle φ, of the complex shear modulus . Mean values were measured for the overall brain and sub‐regions associated with the early onset of AD, to check for the effect of aging and mouse model. Spatial coefficient of variation (CV) of both parameters across different age‐groups were analyzed.

Results

and φ values reduced with age for overall brain in 5XFAD mice with significant difference in mean between 5XFAD and control mice at 6 mo (P = .029). Analyzing values from the hippocampal region highlighted drop in mean and φ values. The CV of inside hippocampus enabled differentiation at 4 mo with it being significantly lower in 5XFAD mice (P = .0007).

Conclusion

Multifrequency 3D MRE revealed longitudinal viscoelastic changes in 5XFAD mice and the CV of in brain sub‐regions may qualify as biomarker for early diagnosis of AD.
Beneficial effect of Bletilla striata extract solution on zymosan‐induced interstitial cystitis in rat
Authors: Liu Yi‐Ching , Lee Wei‐Ting , Liang Ching‐Chung , Lo Tsia‐Shu , Hsieh Wu‐Chiao , Lin Yi‐Hao
Published: February 2021

Aims

Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic pain syndrome that is characterized by suprapubic pain upon bladder filling. Bletilla striata, a well‐known traditional Chinese herb with established efficacy in wound healing and anti‐inflammation, was hypothesized to improve the symptoms of IC possibly though forming a physical barrier that could isolate the bladder tissue from irritants. This study was conducted to evaluate the beneficial effects of intravesical treatment with B. striata extract solution (BSES) on visceral pain and bladder function of rats with zymosan‐induced IC.

Methods

Thirty female rats were randomly divided into control group, zymosan‐induced cystitis rats treated with normal saline (Z + NS), and zymosan‐induced cystitis rats treated with BSES (Z + BSES). All rats underwent evaluation for abdominal withdrawal reflex (AWR) scores to assess visceral hypersensitivity, cystometrography, and electromyogram (EMG) of both external urethral sphincter and bladder detrusor. Data were analyzed by one way analysis of variance.

Results

The Z + NS group had an increased visceral hypersensitivity as compared to control group. Rats treated with BSES (Z + BSES group) had decreased AWR scores and amplitude of bladder detrusor‐EMG. Besides, BSES treatment improved overactive bladder with significant effects on the extend of micturition interval and increase of storage of urine.

Conclusions

Intravesical instillation of BSES can significantly alleviate zymosan‐induced visceral hypersensitivity and bladder overactivity associated with IC. This study suggested that intravesical instillation with BSES might be a promising treatment for IC.
FAMASITO: FASTMAP Shim Tool towards user‐friendly single‐step B0 homogenization
Authors: Landheer Karl , Juchem Christoph
Published: February 2021

Fast, automatic shimming by mapping along projections (FASTMAP) is an elegant analytical method developed to quantify three‐dimensional first‐ and second‐order spherical harmonic B0 shapes along six one‐dimensional column projections. The straightforward application of this theoretical concept to B0 shimming, however, neglects crucial aspects of sequence implementation and shim hardware, commonly necessitating multistep iterative adjustments. We demonstrate a software package, referred to as FASTMAP Shim Tool (FAMASITO), which is composed of a FASTMAP pulse sequence, automated calibration and analysis routines, and a script for automatically performing experiments. With FAMASITO we demonstrate optimal single‐step adjustment of first‐ and second‐order terms (with potential <1% mean refinement of linear terms) in the prefrontal cortex of seven volunteers, one of the most difficult‐to‐shim areas in the adult human brain.
Psychometric properties of Copenhagen Burnout Inventory among nurses
Authors: Montgomery Aoyjai P. , Azuero Andres , Patrician Patricia A.
Published: February 2021

Worldwide, nurses have been reporting high levels of burnout. Given the high prevalence of nurse burnout, measurements of burnout need to be carefully considered for their validity and reliability. Our research team used a relatively new instrument to measure burnout among nurses: the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI). This 19‐item instrument measures burnout in three dimensions: Personal, Work‐related, and Client‐related Burnout. However, the psychometric properties of the CBI have not been examined in nurses. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the psychometric properties of the CBI in a state‐wide survey of inpatient staff nurses. A total of 928 registered nurses working in Alabama‐area hospitals (N = 42 hospitals) participated in this study. Confirmatory factor analysis resulted in an adequate fit to the data and supported construct validity. As evidence of convergent validity, the CBI was moderately to highly correlated with measures of the overall work environment, job satisfaction, and intent to leave, in the anticipated directions. The Cronbach's alphas for Personal Burnout, Work‐related Burnout, and Client‐related Burnout were 0.91, 0.89, and 0.92, respectively, demonstrating excellent internal consistency reliability for the subscales. Based on our data, the CBI demonstrates adequate validity and reliability for measuring burnout among frontline nurses. As nurses provide care to the most vulnerable patients in healthcare systems, their psychological well‐being is important due to the impact on quality of care on patient outcomes. The availability of the CBI on its website allows nurses, nurse managers, and researchers to evaluate burnout in a variety of nursing populations with no licensing costs.
Electrochemical Proton Intercalation in Vanadium Pentoxide Thin Films and its Electrochromic Behavior in the near‐IR Region
Authors: Buchheit Annika , Teßmer Britta , Muñoz‐Castro Marina , Bracht Hartmut , Wiemhöfer Hans‐Dieter
Published: February 2021

This work examines the proton intercalation in vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) thin films and its optical properties in the near‐infrared (near‐IR) region. Samples were prepared via direct current magnetron sputter deposition and cyclic voltammetry was used to characterize the insertion and extraction behavior of protons in V2O5 in a trifluoroacetic acid containing electrolyte. With the same setup chronopotentiometry was done to intercalate a well‐defined number of protons in the HxV2O5 system in the range of x=0 and x=1. These films were characterized with optical reflectometry in the near‐IR region (between 700 and 1700 nm wavelength) and the refractive index n and extinction coefficient k were determined using Cauchy’s dispersion model. The results show a clear correlation between proton concentration and n and k.
Epidemiological model for India's COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Youkta Kumari , Paramanik Rajendra Narayan
Published: February 2021

This study aims to analyse the effectiveness of the lockdown measure taken to control the transmission of COVID‐19 in India by examining the peak of the epidemic pre and post the adoption of stringent lockdown from 25 March 2020. Susceptible‐exposed‐infectious‐recovered (SEIR) model has been developed to trace the peak of the outbreak. The study suggests that with the implementation of lockdown the peak of epidemic in India has delayed by two and a half month. Before lockdown peak was examined in end of May 2020 but post lockdown, it is expected to arrive in mid‐August 2020. Thus lockdown measures has delayed the arrival of peak of epidemic which would be helpful in preparing the healthcare system in advance, to tackle worst situation if arises in future.