bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High FAM189B Expression and Its Prognostic Value in Patients with Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wu Chang-Liang , Tan Quan-Xiao , Liu Dan , Jiang Jun-E , Lu Ting , Huang Zu-Mei , Su Ying-Jie
Published: May 2021

The clinical significance of the family with sequence similarity 189 member B (FAM189B) gene remains largely unknown in gastric cancer (GC). A comprehensive investigation combining multiple detection methods was carried out in the current study to unveil the clinical implications and prospective molecular characterization of FAM189B protein and mRNA in GC. The protein level of FAM189B was clearly upregulated in the tumor tissues of GC as compared to noncancerous gastric tissues with 179 GC cases and 147 noncancerous gastric controls assessed by immunohistochemistry. The upregulation of the FAM189B protein was also found in the more deteriorating period of the tumor, as there were increasing trends in the groups of larger tumors, with lymph node metastasis, a further advanced clinical stage, and a higher histological grade. Next, we focused on the mRNA level of FAM189B in GC tissues using various high‐throughput data. After the screening of GEO, ArrayExpress, and SRA, we finally achieved 18 datasets, including an RNA sequencing dataset of TCGA. Altogether, 1095 cases of GC tissue samples were collected, with 305 unique examples of noncancerous controls. Concerning the mRNA level of FAM189B in GC, the final standard mean difference (SMD) was 0.46 and the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.79 for the upregulation of FAM189B mRNA, which confirmed that the FAM189B mRNA level was also markedly upregulated in GC tissues and comparable to its protein level. The survival analysis showed that the higher expression of FAM189B was a risk factor for the overall survival, first progression, and postprogression survival of GC. For the Affymetrix ID 1555515_a_at of FAM189B, the higher expression level of FAM189B predicted a lower overall survival, first progression survival, and postprogression survival with the hazard ratio (HR) being 1.56 (1.24, 1.95), 1.69 (1.32, 2.17), and 1.97 (1.5, 2.6), respectively. For the Affymetrix ID 203550_s_at of FAM189B, a similar result could be found with corresponding HR being 1.49 (1.24, 1.8), 1.49 (1.21, 1.83), and 1.66 (1.32, 2.08), respectively. The interaction of MEM, COXPRESdb coexpressed genes, and DEGs of GC finally generated 368 genes, and the pathway of the cell cycle was the top pathway enriched by KEGG. In conclusion, the overexpression of the FAM189B protein and mRNA might enhance the incidence of GC.
[Retracted] Comparative Efficacy and Acceptability of Nonpharmacotherapy in the Treatment of Inattention for ADHD: A Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Che Xusheng , Jong-Hwan Choi , Shang Xiuhai
Published: May 2021

This article is aimed to compare the efficacy and acceptability of exercise intervention with other nonpharmacological therapies in improving attention in ADHD patients and then rank those therapies. Methods. Relevant RCT studies from the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Psycinfo, and PubMed were systematically searched from January 2011 to January 2020. The literature was screened, and the researchers extracted and used Stata16 and WinBugs1.4 independently to analyze the data. Results. The improvement of “attention deficit” in ADHD patients was measured in 83 independent studies with 4,998 participants and 14 nonpharmacological therapies. Therapies were ranked as follows, according to the efficacy and acceptability of the cumulative probability area under the curve (SUCRA): (1) meditation and cognitive; (2) sport intervention therapy; (3) vitamin and mineral; (4) cognitive behavioral therapy; (5) computer training; (6) psychological education; (7) working memory training; (8) neurofeedback therapy; (9) polyunsaturated fatty acids; (10) mineral supplements; (11) meditation; (12) vitamin; (13) biofeedback therapy; and (14) school‐based training. However, because the effect size of meditation and cognitive therapy was at a marginally significant level (SMD = −1.07, (−2.15, 0.00)), the robustness of the results was far lower than that of sport intervention therapy. Therefore, careful interpretation is needed in practice. Conclusion. Considering the efficacy and acceptability of various nonpharmacological therapies, sport intervention has a more stable effect on the improvement of attention deficit. Secondly, meditation and cognitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and computer training can also be effective complementary tools.
Application Algorithms for Basketball Training Based on Big Data and Internet of Things
Authors: Li Bo , Wang Xiaofeng , Yao Jinting
Published: May 2021

In recent years, the increasing demand for physical health promotes the basketball sports industry’s reform. The latest science and technology enter the sports industry one after another and constantly impact the traditional sports equipment. However, the conventional sports technology scheme is unreasonable, and the sports training management models are obsolete. So, it is impossible to use scientific methods in basketball training, and the overall training effect is not good. This paper proposes a basketball training algorithm using big data and the Internet of Things. The proposed algorithm uses gesture recognition from continuous video movement characteristics of key figures, trajectory characteristics, and background information fusion. It improves the recognition mechanism based on the Shuangliu C3D video basketball player action classification method. Due to the lack of a scientific exercise plan for basketball players, a training plan based on BMI and IoT-enabled big data is devised. The proposed scheme is implemented so that different basketball players customize their own scientific sports training modules.
Psychoeducational Intervention Benefits the Quality of Life of Patients with Active Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Xu Hongyan , Teng Qiao , Zeng Yan , Tian Chunping , Yang Bowen , Yao Xiaoling
Published: May 2021

Objectives. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex and relapsing autoimmune disease and worsens the quality of life (QOL) of patients by affecting their physical and psychological status. The effectiveness of psychoeducational interventions on patients with active SLE was investigated. Methods. Eight-five patients with active SLE were randomly assigned to an observation group or a control group; patients in the observation group received psychoeducational interventions. The following variables were evaluated within a week after admission, 3 and 6 months after psychoeducational intervention: the World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument- (WHOQOL-) BREF scores, the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form 36 (SF-36) scores, the Beck Depression Inventory, and Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Results. We found that scores of all four domains of the WHOQOL-BREF scale were remarkably increased 3 months after psychoeducational intervention in the intervention group and significantly higher than the control group (

P
<
0.05

); 6 months after psychoeducational intervention, psychological and social domain scores of the WHOQOL-BREF scale were remarkably higher in the intervention group than those in the control group, while other scores of three domains were not. PF, RP, BP, GH, RE, and MH scores of the SF-36 scale were remarkably increased 3 months after psychoeducational intervention in the intervention group rather than VT and SF, while all scores of subscales were notably higher in the intervention group than those in the control group (

P
<
0.05

). Six months after psychoeducational intervention, PF, RP, BP, GH, and RE scores of the SF-36 scale were remarkably higher in the intervention group than those in the control group, while VT, SF, and MH scores were not. Three months after psychoeducational intervention, the levels of depression and anxiety of SLE patients were reduced and significantly lower than those in the control group (

P
<
0.05

). Six months after psychoeducational intervention, the level of depression was still reduced, while the level of anxiety was not. Compared with the control group, the levels of depression and anxiety of SLE patients were remarkably declined in the observation group 6 months after psychoeducational intervention (

P
<
0.05

). Conclusion. These data suggest psychoeducational interventions can significantly improve and maintain the QOL of patients with active SLE.
[Retracted] The Study on the Pathogenesis of Pediatric Lymphoma Based on the Combination of Pseudotargeted and Targeted Metabolomics
Authors: Sun Hongqi , Chen Nan , Wang Xuchen , Li Na , Wang Shanshan , Zhang Zhengyan , Zhou Ying , Yang Junmei
Published: May 2021

Pediatric lymphoma is a kind of malignant tumor with high mortality. The complexity of pediatric lymphoma shows a great challenge for effective diagnosis and treatment. In order to meet the challenge, the combination of pseudotargeted and targeted metabolomics was used to analyze the serum metabolites in pediatric lymphoma patients and healthy controls for discovering the metabolites related to pediatric lymphoma. The serum samples were obtained from the treatment group (n = 43), the control group (n = 26), and the patients group (n = 18). A total of 17 serum metabolites, including carnitine, leucine, creatine, urea, (6Z,9Z,12Z)‐octadecatrienoic acid, linoleate, octadecenoic acid, L‐palmitoylcarnitine, hexadecanoic acid, tetradecanoic acid, (9Z)‐hexadecenoic acid, uric acid, glucose, 1‐methylnicotinamide, hypoxanthine, L‐glutamine, and taurine, were found to be related to pediatric lymphoma. They could provide a scientific diagnostic basis and therapeutic target for pediatric lymphoma and elucidate the mechanism of pediatric lymphoma.
Tukey Control Chart for Radon Monitoring in Relation to the Seismic Activity
Authors: Mehmood Tahir , Awais Muhammad
Published: May 2021

Radon is one of the precursory phenomena that exist in connection to the occurrence of earthquakes and may have potential in forecasting these hazards. The data set in this study contains the observations of radon from August 01, 2014, to January 31, 2015, collected in Sobra city, northern Pakistan. Weibull, gamma, log-normal, log-logistic, and Pareto probability distribution were fitted over the radon on its original scale and a log scale. Log-logistic best fits the radon on both scales. The Tukey control charts reveal several anomalies that were compared with earthquake occurrence. There are five earthquakes that occurred during the same period as the radon monitoring program, having magnitude ranges between 4.9 and 5.5, with the ratio between strain radius and distance to the epicenter greater than or equal to 1. The results of this study demonstrate that, for earthquakes, seismic events show a correlation with increasing concentrations of radon gas before their occurrence.
Higher Frequency of Fish Intake May Be Associated with a Lower Neutrophil/Lymphocyte Ratio: Anti-Atherosclerotic Effects of Fish Consumption
Authors: Tani Shigemasa , Matsuo Rei , Atsumi Wataru , Kawauchi Kenji , Ashida Tadashi , Yagi Tsukasa , Imatake Kazuhiro , Suzuki Yasuyuki , Takahashi Atsuhiko , Matsumoto Naoya , Okumura Yasuo
Published: May 2021

Background: Higher fish consumption has been reported to be associated with a lower incidence of coronary artery disease (CAD). An elevated neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a marker of systemic inflammation, is reportedly associated with the development of adverse CAD events. We hypothesized that a higher fish intake was associated with a lower NLR. Methods and Results: This cross-sectional study was conducted in a cohort of 8,237 Japanese subjects who had no history of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease registered at the Health Planning Center of Nihon University Hospital between April 2018 and March 2019. The average weekly frequency of fish intake was 2.32 ± 1.31 days. The NLR decreased significantly as the weekly frequency of fish intake (0 day, 1–2 days, 3–4 days, or 5–7 days) increased (p = 0.001). A multiple stepwise regression analysis identified the weekly frequency of fish intake (β = −0.045, p < 0.0001) and habitual alcohol intake (β = −0.051, p < 0.0001) as significant but weak, negative, and independent determinants of the NLR. Conversely, the presence of metabolic syndrome (β = 0.046, p < 0.0001), the presence of treatment for diabetes mellitus (β = 0.054, p < 0.0001), and the presence of treatment for hypertension (β = 0.043, p < 0.0001) were significant positive and independent determinants of the NLR. Conclusions: The present results suggest that a higher frequency of fish intake appears to be associated with a lower NLR, suggesting an anti-systemic inflammation effect. This association may partially explain the preventive effects of a higher fish intake on CAD events.
Snail Soothing and Repairing Cream Improves Skin Hydration after Ablative Fractional CO2 Laser: A Split-Face Randomized Double-Blinded Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Theerawattanawit Chinathip , Promvaranon Tiwanun , Rerknimitr Pawinee , Asawanonda Pravit , Noppakun Nopadon , Kumtornrut Chanat
Published: May 2021

Background: Ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser (AFCO2) resurfacing causes transient skin barrier disruption characterized by decreased skin hydration and increased transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Snail Soothing and Repairing (SSR) cream, containing several glycoproteins with potential antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, may benefit skin hydration promotion after the laser treatment. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of SSR cream in skin hydration promotion after AFCO2 resurfacing. Method: The study was a double-blinded, split-face, placebo-controlled trial in participants aged 18–50 years with atrophic acne scars on both cheeks. After AFCO2 resurfacing, participants applied the product or placebo on either cheek twice daily for 14 days. Corneometry, TEWL, colorimetry, and clinical assessments (edema, erythema, crusting, pruritus, and tightness score) were evaluated at baseline, day 7, and day 14 after AFCO2 resurfacing. Results: From 22 participants in the study, the SSR cream-treated sides showed significantly higher corneometry levels than placebo-treated sides at day 14 (p = 0.033), while TEWL and colorimetry levels were not different at any study visits. Pruritus and tightness scores of the SSR side were lower, but not significant, than the placebo. Other clinical assessments (edema, erythema, and crusting) showed similar results. No significant adverse events took place. Conclusion: The SSR cream significantly improved skin hydration, highlighting skin barrier restoration after AFCO2 resurfacing, with a good safety profile.
Successful Rechallenge with Osimertinib after Very Acute Onset of Drug-Induced Pneumonitis
Authors: Mohammed Turab , Mangeshkar Shaunak , Rathmann Joerg
Published: May 2021

Drug-induced interstitial lung disease (DI-ILD) is a rare, yet life-threatening complication associated with tyrosine-kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy. Third-generation epidermal growth factor receptor-TKI, osimertinib use can be associated with a benign radiological finding called transient asymptomatic pulmonary opacities that can be confused with an infectious pulmonary process resulting in overtreatment with antibiotics or premature treatment withdrawal or severe DI-ILD. In this case, our patient with newly diagnosed metastatic non-small cell lung cancer on treatment with osimertinib developed very early onset severe DI-ILD (grade-IV) with a unique pattern of pulmonary involvement and was treated with high-dose corticosteroids with a response. She was later successfully rechallenged with osimertinib and responded well to the treatment. Our case highlights the importance of being cognizant of the possibility that DI-ILD can rarely occur within a week of treatment initiation with osimertinib and safe reintroduction of the drug is possible in select patients following complete resolution of pulmonary radiographic findings and clinical symptoms even with high-grade adverse events.
Voltage-Gated Sodium Channel β1 Gene: An Overview
Authors: Al-Ward Hisham , Liu Chun-Yang , Liu Ning , Shaher Fahmi , Al-Nusaif Murad , Mao Jing , Xu Hui
Published: May 2021

Background: Voltage-gated sodium channels are protein complexes composed of 2 subunits, namely, pore-forming α- and regulatory β-subunits. A β-subunit consists of 5 proteins encoded by 4 genes (i.e., SCN1B–SCN4B). Summary: β1-Subunits regulate sodium ion channel functions, including gating properties, subcellular localization, and kinetics. Key Message: Sodium channel β1- and its variant β1B-subunits are encoded by SCN1B. These variants are associated with many human diseases, such as epilepsy, Brugada syndrome, Dravet syndrome, and cancers. On the basis of previous research, we aimed to provide an overview of the structure, expression, and involvement of SCN1B in physiological processes and focused on its role in diseases.
Microbiome and Infection: A Case for “Selective Depletion”
Authors: Hill Colin
Published: May 2021

In most instances where a pathogen has initiated an infection, the primary goal of the treating physician or pharmacist is to eliminate the pathogen. In the absence of knowledge of the precise identity of the problem-causing microbe, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial gives the best chance of success. This approach has saved many lives and is an invaluable tool in fighting infections. However, perhaps our current appreciation of the importance of the microbiome in human health should give us pause. We can regard the microbiome as a virtual organ within the human body, and we would surely hesitate to advance any therapeutic approach that would cause substantial damage to one of our organs. This is one consequence of many broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapies. There may be instances where a more precise approach would be useful. I have termed this “selective depletion”; a concept where pathogen numbers are curtailed by a narrow-spectrum inhibitor but the microbiome is protected and can play a role in restoring health and suppressing the outgrowth of the pathogen in the infected patient. It may well be that the best reservoir of microbiome-friendly antimicrobial agents is the microbiome itself, and I provide examples of where the microbiome has been mined for novel precision antimicrobials.
Assessing the level of relatedness of civic education and government as a school subject: A threat to class attendance
Authors: Bolanle Bello, Muhinat
Published: May 2021

Senior Secondary Students' inability to draw a significant difference between these school subjects, which lead to their ceaseless absence in the class is a critical issue that calls for an investigation. This research examined teachers' and student’s assessment of the level of relatedness of Civic education and Government as a school subject in Kwara State. A correlational form of a survey was adopted, civic education and government teachers and students in the senior schools in the three Senatorial districts were the populations. A multi-stage sampling procedure was employed in the selection of 63 Government and Civic education teachers and 606 students. A questionnaire with content validity and a reliability index of 0.87 and 0.76 respectively was used for eliciting the data. The analyses were done using descriptive and inferential statistics.  Findings revealed that the two-school subject was very related in all ramifications, with a pass in one leading to a pass in the other. It was recommended that the curriculum planner should collapse the curriculum and contents of the two subjects into one rather than overburden the school timetable.
Sustainable development education practices in elementary schools
Authors: Gunansyah Ganes , Zuhdi Ulhaq , Suprayitno Suprayitno , Aisy Manda Rohadatul
Published: May 2021

This study described the practice of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) along with the supporting factors of the implementation of ESD in three elementary schools (SD) which are referred to as pilot education schools in Surabaya, namely SD Al Irsyad, Citra Berkat Primary Schooland Putat Gede I Surabaya Elementary School. The study used a qualitative approach with comparative descriptive methods. The instrument used in the form of in-depth interviews and documentation studies. Data analysis techniques included data reduction, data presentation and verification. The results of this study indicated that sustainable development practices that have been implemented in the Primary School in Surabaya take place (1) as diverse as conservation which includes the stages of preservation, restoration, adaptation and revitalization and ecoliteracy to facilitate so students can build connections, awareness and experience, (2) has been supported by the commitment of the school community and the leadership of the school principal as outlined in various policies and integrated into curricular and extracurricular activities, and (3) has shown a number of development indicators sustainable in the field of education. Based on the linkages of the three main aspects of ESD, it appears that practices implemented in schools are still dominantly focused on environmental activities. However, there have been efforts to link environmental activities with social and economic activities through entrepreneurship week, cultural appreciation shows and other collaborations and participation that involve the participation of school members, the community and other policy makers even though in a limited scope and simple activities.
Muhammadiyah student association characteristic behavior in educational perspective of Ahmad Dahlan
Authors: Izzati Ikfi Muallifa , Miftahuddin Miftahuddin , Aman Aman
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to see Ahmad Dahlan's concept of educational thought and Ahmad Dahlan's concept of education in ordering Muhammadiyah student association (IPM) character. This study used a descriptive narrative qualitative research. The research was conducted at Muhammadiyah Kalibening Senior High School, Banjarnegara Regency. The research process was carried out using interview techniques, observation and documentation with data triangulation analysis techniques. The research analysis found that IPM activities lead to Ahmad Dahlan's educational thinking which can form disciplinary attitudes, responsibility, and have broad insights. IPM activities in this school are included in the school curriculum. Students who join the IPM will try to be introspective and discipline themselves in worship and social interactions. The activities of the Muhammadiyah Student Association are implemented in the applicable school curriculum.
The role of student-teacher relationship to teacher subjective well-being as moderated by teaching experience
Authors: Farhah Irsyad , Saleh Airin Yustikarini , Safitri Shahnaz
Published: May 2021

A good relationship between teachers and students can positively influence the subjective well-being of teachers. However, in the context of middle school setting, a good relationship with students was considered as an effortful attempt for teacher to maintain which was related to the teacher well-being too. It was said that the more teaching experience the teacher has, the easier for them to navigate their relationship with students. Therefore, this study aimed to test whether the teaching experience moderate the impact of the teacher-student relationship to the teacher subjective well-being. The teacher-student relationship was measured using the Student-Teacher Relationship Scale (STRS), while the teacher subjective well-being was measured by the Teacher Subjective Well-Being Questionnaire (TSWQ). Respondents in this study were 289 teachers at the middle school level from both junior high school and senior high school or equivalent. The analysis technique used was a simple moderation analysis. The result showed that there was a positive relationship between the teacher-student relationship, the teacher subjective well-being, and teacher experience. However, this study indicated that there was no moderation role of the teaching experience in weakening or strengthening the close teacher-student relationship impact on the teacher well-being.
Identification of a framework for implementing ICT in Sri Lankan secondary education system
Authors: Vidanagama Tharinda Nishantha , Karunathilake Shashikala Lakshani
Published: May 2021

This research work was focused on finding the affected indicators on the barriers to use Information and Communications Technology (ICT) in Sri Lankan Secondary Education System. It also explores a framework to implement ICT in schools overcoming these barriers. In particular, it examined the viewpoint of teachers and principals on the integration of ICT into the schools’ policy in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. Interviews were conducted for 60 secondary school principals and a questionnaire base survey was conducted for 500 teachers of several schools selected from the above pool. What materialized from the analysis showed that, infrastructure facilities, any policies related to the school, Planning and usage of ICT in teaching and learning, Current views held by principals as well as teachers regarding their ICT competencies, Teacher’s fluency of ICT, the perceived viewpoint of teachers and principals regarding the influence and subsequent function of ICT in education has an influence on the magnitude of ICT usage in schools. According to the analyzed data, a framework was designed to make readiness and maintain smooth Teaching Learning system in secondary schools. Finally, the research has collected feedback from involved parties during the implementation process to evaluate competency of the suggested framework.
Termites (Blattodea: Isoptera) of southern India: current knowledge on distribution and systematic checklist
Authors: Ranjith M. , Kalleshwaraswamy C.M.
Published: May 2021

A checklist of termites (Blattodea: Isoptera) of southern India with their distribution is presented in this paper.  In total, 132 species from five families are listed, of which Termitidae Latreille, 1802 is the dominant family comprising 101 species from 27 genera and four subfamilies.  The recent additions of species to the regional termite diversity are Krishnacapritermes dineshan Amina & Rajmohana, 2020, K. manikandan Amina & Rajmohana, 2020, and Pseudocapritermes kunjepu Mathew, 2020.  Out of 132 species recorded from southern India, 60 species and five genera are endemic to the region, and the subfamily Termitinae Latreille, 1802 accounts for maximum endemism.
Regimes of Diplomacy and Law: Bengal-China Encounters in the Early Fifteenth Century
Authors: Kooria Mahmood
Published: May 2021

This article examines the Bengal–China connections between the Ilyās Shāhī and Ming dynasties in the early fifteenth century across the Bay of Bengal and South China Sea. It traces how law played a central role in the cultural geography and diplomatic vocabulary between individuals and communities in foreign lands, with their shared understanding of two nodal points of law. Diplomatic missions explicate how customary, regional and transregional laws were entangled in inter-imperial etiquette. Then there were the religious orders of Islam that constituted an inner circle of imperial exchanges. Between the Ilyās Shāhī rule in Bengal and the Ming Empire in China, certain dimensions of Islamic law provided a common language for the circulation of people and ideas. Stretching between cities and across oceans the interpolity legal exchanges expose interesting aspects of the histories of China and Bengal.
lārešet ʾet hāʾāreṣ—“To Possess the Land, to Enjoy Possession of the Land”: A Lexicographic Proposal and Its Theological Ramifications
Authors: Krause Joachim J.
Published: May 2021

The basic meaning of the Hebrew verb ירשׁ qal with a non-personal direct object is “to take something into possession,” be it by violence or in another way. This holds also for the phrase לרשׁת את הארץ (“to take possession of the land”). However, complementing this ingressive basic meaning, one should also reckon with a progressive second meaning (Nebenbedeutung), namely “to possess the land, to enjoy possession of the land.” In the present article, this lexicographic proposal is substantiated by examples from across the Hebrew Bible in which an ingressive understanding apparently does not reflect the original intent, calling instead for a progressive understanding. These examples include Ezek 33:23–29; Psalm 37, and Judg 2:6–10. The proposal is also tested in those passages in Deuteronomy which correlate possessing the land and observing the Torah. In so doing, their interpretation in terms of the Deuteronomistic nomism hypothesis is reviewed critically.
Carnidae (Diptera: Brachycera, Acalyptrata) from the Balearic Islands (Spain) with descriptions of new species of Meoneura Róndani
Authors: Ebejer Martin J.
Published: May 2021

The family Carnidae is reported from the Balearic Islands (Spain) for the first time. Meoneura glaberrima Becker, 1910 and M. prima (Becker, 1903) are new records and two species are described as new: M. ibizana sp. n. and M. micropygialis sp. n. This brings the total number of species of Meoneura known from Spain to 31.
Theorizing STEM Leadership: Agency, Identity and Community
Authors: Natarajan Uma , Tan Aik Ling , Teo Tang Wee
Published: May 2021

STEM education, when perceived as integrated learning that encompasses knowledge, skills and practices of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, points to a need to re-examine ways of classification of school subjects and learning. Consequently, dilemmas related to integrated STEM education arise. School leaders are faced with the task to organize teams to address issues such as the ownership of STEM, identity issues such as STEM teacher or teacher of STEM subjects, evaluation of STEM programs and resources to support STEM education. The unique characteristics of integrated disciplines demand leaders who understand the unique characteristics and demands of each discipline and to apply them to build a synergistic platform to magnify the similarities and harness the differences for learning. In this paper, we present an argument for STEM leadership to focus on building STEM teachers’ agency, identity and sense of belonging to a community. These three aspects are important for meaningful planning, enactment and sustainability of STEM programs since teachers’ beliefs, intentions, actions and empowerment are known to be instrumental in the success of many educational reforms.
The Genetics Conceptual Understanding of Indonesian and United States Undergraduate Biology Students
Authors: Rusmana Ai Nurlaelasari , Rachmatullah Arif , Nuraeni Eni , Ha Minsu
Published: May 2021

Genetics as a core concept of life science is essential for understanding biology. Examining genetics understanding among biology majors is becoming important since they must necessarily achieve some level of genetics understanding to advance their career. This study compares Indonesian biology majors’ genetics understanding with previously published data from students in the United States (US). This study also identifies the effect of academic year and program on genetics understanding by administering the Genetics Concept Assessment (GCA) to 377 biology majors in Indonesia. IRT-Rasch modeling was performed for instrument validation, followed by one-way ANOVA and independent sample t-test for the analysis. The results showed that Indonesian biology majors’ genetics understanding was significantly affected by academic year but was not affected by the academic program. Indonesian biology majors had a slightly similar level of genetics understanding with US non-majors’ pre-test scores, while Indonesian biology majors’ scores were two times lower than US majors’ post-test scores. The implications of reducing the gap between two countries are discussed.
Book review: Scott Rozelle, and Natalie Hell, Invisible China: How the Urban-Rural Divide Threatens China’s Rise
Authors: Tiwari Prateeksha
Published: May 2021

Scott Rozelle, and Natalie Hell, Invisible China: How the Urban-Rural Divide Threatens China’s Rise (Chicago, IL: The University of Chicago Press, 2020), 248 pp., US$27.50, ISBN: 978-0226740515 (e-book).
Funding of Transport Infrastructure in Serbia: China in Focus
Authors: Csapó Dániel Gábor
Published: May 2021

In the Western Balkans, Serbia is considered one of China’s key partners, represented both in the political sphere and financially in the number of investments from Chinese corporations and banks. This paper examines the rate of Chinese expansion in Serbia by examining the investments in Serbian transportation infrastructure. It also analyses the relationship between the two countries and examines the response of other powers towards the Chinese expansion in Serbia. The annual report of the Ministry of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure (MGSI), Serbia summarises the recently implemented, ongoing and planned investments. According to this document, from 2004 to 2020 Serbia has and is planning to invest nearly EUR 6 billion into development projects with a 3:1 ratio in favour of investments to railway projects (MGSI 2018, ‘Overview of Finalised, Ongoing and Planned Transportation and Construction Infrastructural Projects,. 3). Although European institutions play a crucial role in financing the projects, Chinese financial institutions are becoming increasingly influential. Based on the assessment of the data in the Ministry report and considering the projects with an identified financing provider, one-fifth of the total value is provided by the Chinese banks. While the Chinese side argues that they strive to ensure a ‘win-win’ position for all stakeholders, the European Union (notably, the Western Member States) and the United States have reservations about Chinese expansion in the region.
Amicus Curiae Intervention in China-ASEAN Investment Disputes: Rationale, Dilemmas and Reform Path
Authors: Yang Xinglong
Published: May 2021

One main criticism levelled against the investor-state dispute settlement system (ISDS) is the existence of limited opportunities for amicus intervention. Against this backdrop, this article firstly studies what reforms regarding amicus intervention in ISDS proceedings have been put forward by China and ASEAN countries and the relevant dilemmas. Subsequently, to ensure that maximum benefits can be realised from amicus participation in ISDS proceedings in China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (CAFTA), this article proposes procedures for when and how an amicus may participate in arbitral proceedings under the upcoming investment agreements, particularly the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). Additionally, given the fact that the level of amicus participation in ISDS proceedings is still limited, the article suggests that China and ASEAN need to establish safeguards to provide amici with access to key arbitral documents and oral hearings. However, achieving the above objectives should not come at the expense of undermining the confidential and protected information of both disputing parties.
A Vindication of Desire: St Anselm, with C. S. Lewis
Authors: Mills Matthew J.
Published: May 2021

Despite different starting points, in the cloister and the world respectively, Anselm of Canterbury (1033-1109) and C. S. Lewis (1898–1963) enjoyed a mutual interest in the concept and experience of spiritual desire. Inspired by Lewis’ famous sermon, ‘The Weight of Glory’ (1941), but principally guided by Anselm’s reflections, this essay argues that desire exists in a dynamic relationship with love and that, as a journey of desire, the Christian life is extremely challenging, since it is a journey into mystery and towards moral perfection, but also contains and ultimately fulfils God’s promise of eternal joy. It is hoped that one by-product of this exploration may be to accord greater recognition to Anselm as a spiritual, even mystical, theologian, recognising him in Jean Leclercq’s description of an earlier monastic leader, Gregory the Great (d. 604), as a ‘doctor of desire’.
Students’ Challenging Behavior in Phoenix Primary Schools, South Africa: Impact on Teachers
Authors: Rubbi Nunan Julie Shantone , Ntombela Sithabile
Published: May 2021

Students’ challenging behavior is impacting negatively on teachers’ wellbeing worldwide. Currently, teaching for some teachers in South African primary schools has become exhausting and daunting to say the least. Teachers feel that they have had enough degradation and are not receiving the respect they, as professionals, deserve. Students’ relentless rampages and their refusal to listen to teachers are pushing teachers to the near brink of mental breakdown. This article, which embraces a qualitative research design and draws on an interpretative approach, derives from a larger case study conducted at three primary schools in Phoenix. To determine “how does students’ challenging behavior impact on teachers,” semi-structured interviews were conducted with five teachers from each sample school ( N  = 15). Thematic analysis was used to classify data for this study. The systems theory applied portrays how behavior transferred from the home and environmental system, into the school system was impacting on teachers. Results indicate that teachers are unhappy and are awaiting their exit from the teaching profession. Furthermore, lack of collaboration between systems deters any amalgamated progress. Future research should concentrate on embracing constructive systems to reduce teachers’ mental and physical stresses in South African primary schools.
Characteristics of pre-strained polyisocyanurate foam: Deformation recovery and compressive mechanical behavior at cryogenic temperature
Authors: Kim Seul-Kee , Kim Jeong-Dae , Lee Dong-Ha , Kim Jeong-Hyeon , Lee Jae-Myung
Published: May 2021

In this study, mechanical characteristics of pre-strained polyisocyanurate foam were investigated based on the uniaxial compression test. The compression test procedure was divided into two steps: pre-straining and the typical compression test for the recovered specimen. To evaluate the effect of pre-straining, four different compressive strains were considered, and the temperature and the strain rate dependencies on its mechanical characteristics were analyzed. Test results showed that the recovery ratio decreased substantially for 0.85 (ambient temperature) and 0.25 (cryogenic temperature), and polyisocyanurate foam pre-strained at cryogenic temperature revealed an earlier start of densification. Based on the deformation mechanism of the polymeric foam, the collapse of cells in the pre-strained polyisocyanurate foam was addressed to explain the distinguished features in compressive mechanical characteristics regarding test conditions.
Pcsk9 Knockout Aggravated Experimental Apical Periodontitis via LDLR
Authors: Huang L. , Wu H. , Wu Y. , Song F. , Zhang L. , Li Z. , Sun H. , Huang C.
Published: May 2021

Apical periodontitis (AP), an inflammatory lesion around the apex of tooth roots, is mostly caused by dental pulp infection. Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) plays a vital role in regulating cholesterol homeostasis by targeting low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) and participates in bacterium-induced chronic periodontitis. However, the roles of PCSK9 in AP are unknown. Here, we investigated its role in AP by using Pcsk9−/− mice. Micro–computed tomography scanning and histological staining revealed that the periapical bone loss of Pcsk9−/− mice was greater than that of wild-type (WT) mice, and increased expression of inflammation-related factors tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)–6 was also observed. Immunofluorescence staining and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction showed PCSK9 expression in bone marrow macrophages (BMMs) was increased after treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). This finding was consistent with the in vivo results that the expression level of PCSK9 in exposed WT mice increased compared with that in unexposed WT mice. After LPS challenge, the expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in BMMs were increased, and Pcsk9 knockout aggravated the expression of these inflammatory factors. The number of osteoclasts positive for tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining around the apical lesion in Pcsk9−/− mice was higher than that in WT mice. Then BMMs underwent the osteoclast differentiation. Pcsk9 knockout BMMs induced increased and larger osteoclasts. While this effect of Pcsk9 knockout was abolished by the addition of Ldlr small interfering RNA, revealing that Pcsk9 knockout increased osteoclastogenesis was dependent on the LDLR. Immunohistochemistry staining showed increased expression level of LDLR in exposed Pcsk9−/− periapical areas. In vitro experiments showed that LPS promoted the expression level of LDLR in Pcsk9−/− BMMs and increased osteoclast formation ability, indicating that LPS promoted the elevation of osteoclasteogenesis caused by the Pcsk9 knockout. In conclusion, Pcsk9 deficiency aggravated the inflammatory response and promoted the osteoclastogenesis in an LDLR-dependent manner in AP experimental mice.
Tailoring rice varieties to consumer preferences induced by cultural and colonial heritage: Lessons from New Rice for Africa (NERICA) in The Gambia
Authors: Britwum Kofi , Demont Matty
Published: May 2021

Rice breeding priorities in Africa often focus on agronomic gains. However, being a net importer of rice, the continent’s varietal replacement success also crucially hinges on new varieties’ market competitiveness vis-à-vis imports. Markets have been profoundly shaped by cultural and colonial heritage. Indigenous preferences for African rice can be traced back to ancient rice domestication and have been subsequently influenced by Asian rice import standards as a result of colonial import substitution policies. New Rice for Africa (NERICA) crosses between African and Asian rice species have the potential to reconcile these dual indigenous/import preferences, but little is known about their market competitiveness. We use auction market data to assess the intrinsic and extrinsic consumer value of NERICA in The Gambia relative to two market standards: branded, Asian rice imports and the most popular locally grown Asian rice variety. We categorize rice consumers into four market segments, based on their heritage as evidenced by their preferences and genealogical lineages. NERICA outperforms both Asian rice standards in terms of market competitiveness, and its value is further reinforced by colonial heritage and labeling, but somewhat weakened by cultural heritage. Consumers were found to pay price premiums for NERICA in the range of 5% to 22% relative to Asian rice imports, with the highest premiums offered by consumers with colonial heritage, representing 86% of the sample. Maintaining and expanding this market will require breeders to incorporate trait mixes that reconcile agronomic gains and consumer preferences induced by cultural and colonial heritage.
Belief in Altruistic Motives Predicts Prosocial Actions and Inferences
Authors: Carlson Ryan W. , Zaki Jamil
Published: May 2021

Are humans ever truly altruistic? Or are all actions, however noble, ultimately motivated by self-interest? Psychologists and philosophers have long grappled with this question, but few have considered laypeople’s beliefs about the nature of prosocial motives. Here we examine these beliefs and their social correlates across two experiments (N = 445). We find that people tend to believe humans can be, and frequently are, altruistically motivated—echoing prior work. Moreover, people who more strongly believe in altruistic motives act more prosocially themselves—for instance, sacrificing greater amounts of money and time to help others—a relationship that holds even when controlling for trait empathy. People who believe in altruistic motives also judge other prosocial agents to be more genuinely kind, especially when agents’ motives are ambiguous. Lastly, people independently show a self-serving bias—believing their own motives for prosociality are more often altruistic than others’. Overall, this work suggests that believing in altruistic motives predicts the extent to which people both see altruism and act prosocially, possibly reflecting the self-fulfilling nature of such lay theories.
Validity and Longitudinal Invariance of the 10-Item Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10) in Chinese Left-Behind and Non-Left-Behind Children
Authors: Chen Wei , Liang Yuxin , Yang Tao , Gao Rongfen , Zhang Guyin
Published: May 2021

The 10-item Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC-10) is a self-report instrument widely used to assess resilience in particular demographics. This study aimed to evaluate the validity and measurement invariance (MI) of the CD-RISC-10 in Chinese left-behind children. A total of 968 children from three middle schools in Guizhou Province participated in this study, with the CD-RISC-10 used twice, at the base line time point and again after six months. The Ego-resilience Scale (ERS), and General Self-efficiency Scale (GSES-10) were also used as criteria-related validity instruments. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was carried out to examine the one-factor model and the MI with regards to gender and left-behind status, as well as the longitudinal measurement invariance (LMI). The study proved satisfactory reliability and validity of the CD-RISC-10, with good criterion validity with the ERS and GSES-10. CFA results showed that the satisfactory model fit for the one-factor structure was supported in all groups (e.g., CFI = .942, TLI = .925, RMSEA = .057). The strict MI was evident across genders, as well as both the left-behind and non-left-behind groups. Additionally, the LMI of the CD-RISC-10 was also adequately supported. Generally speaking, these findings demonstrate that the CD-RISC-10 can effectively measure the resilience level of left-behind children – boys as well as girls – in China.
Mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication model of rotary lip seal with non-Gaussian surfaces: experimentation verification and numerical analysis on effects of sealed pressure
Authors: Liu Di , Wang Shaoping , Shi Jian
Published: May 2021

Many published models can be used to analyse the sealing performance of rotary lip seal. The surfaces are normally assumed to be periodic variation. However, the quasi-randomness of surface height distribution should be considered, especially the non-Gaussian distribution. Hence, a mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication model with non-Gaussian surfaces is proposed and used to analyse the effects of sealed fluid pressure on the seal performance in this paper. Based on digital filter and Johnson’s translator system, a rough surface simulation method is introduced to simulate non-Gaussian rough surface. Based on this method the mixed lubrication model with non-Gaussian surfaces is built. The proposed model is verified by comparing the simulation results to experimental observations. Furthermore, it is hardly to find the research focused on the effects of sealed pressure. Hence, the effects of sealed fluid pressure on the seal performance is focused.