bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrative functional analyses of the neurodegenerative disease-associated TECPR2 gene reveal its diverse roles
Authors: Shalev Ido , Somekh Judith , Eran Alal
Published: January 2020

BackgroundLoss of tectonin β-propeller repeat-containing 2 (TECPR2) function has been implicated in an array of neurodegenerative disorders, yet its physiological function remains largely unknown. Understanding TECPR2 function is essential for developing much needed precision therapeutics for TECPR2-related diseases. MethodsWe leveraged the considerable amounts of functional data to obtain a comprehensive perspective of the role of TECPR2 in health and disease. We integrated expression patterns, population variation, phylogenetic profiling, protein-protein interactions, and regulatory network data for a minimally biased multimodal functional analysis. Genes and proteins linked to TECPR2 via multiple lines of evidence were subject to functional enrichment analyses to identify molecular mechanisms involving TECPR2.ResultsTECPR2 was found to be part of a tight neurodevelopmental gene expression program that includes KIF1A, ATXN1, TOM1L2, and FA2H, all implicated in neurological diseases. Functional enrichment analyses of TECPR2-related genes converged on a role in late autophagy and ribosomal processes. Large-scale population variation data demonstrated that this role is nonredundant. ConclusionsTECPR2 might serve as an indicator for the energy balance between protein synthesis and autophagy, and a marker for diseases associated with their imbalance, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and various cancers. Our work further suggests that TECPR2 plays a role as a synaptic proteostasis regulator during synaptogenesis, highlighting its importance in developing neurons. By advancing our understanding of TECPR2 function, this work provides an essential stepping stone towards the development of precision diagnostics and targeted treatment options for TECPR2-related disorders.
Long-term nucleoside analogue therapy can lead effective HBV DNA inhibition in patients with chronic HBV infection in immune tolerate phase
Authors: LIU YAYUN , Liang XueSong , Xu AiJing , Xu Hao , Yu Jiao , Xue Jianya
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims The efficacy and safety of long-term antiviral therapy with nucleoside analogues (NAs) for chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients in immune tolerate (IT) phase is uncertain.We retrospectively evaluated the efficacy and safety of 61 CHB patients in IT phase receiving NAs therapy from 2013 through 2018. Methods We performed a retrospective study of CHB patients who had high HBV DNA, normal or minimum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), liver biopsy confirmed light necro-inflammation and received NAs therapy from 2012 through 2018.All patients received NAs at least 12 months. Patients on-treatment monitoring were in accordance with the roadmap concept and were followed after their treatment start date to the treatment end date (if any) or 6 years at least once every 6 months. The median follow-up time was 36(16; 52) months. We assessed the virological response (the proportions of patients with plasma HBV DNA loads less than the limit of quantification,100IU/ml) and serological endpoints (HBeAg loss and seroconcersion to anti-HBe, and HBsAg loss and seroconversion to anti-HBs). Safety and tolerability, including serious events, were regularly assessed. Results At 48 weeks on treatment, 55.6%(95%confidence interval(CI):37.0-70.0%) patients with CHB in IT phase achieved HBV DNA less than quantitative limit(<100IU/ml), and the accumulate proportion of patients who achieved HBV DNA less than quantitative limit was 76.7%(95%CI: 58-90.0%) and 95.8%(95%CI: 79-100%) at 96 weeks and ≥144weeks on treatment, respectively. The HBeAg loss or seroconversion rate in patients with CHB in IT phase on NAs treatment at 48, 96 and ≥144weeks was 2.7%(95%CI: 0-14.0%), 13.3% (95%CI: 4-31.0%) and 29.2%(95%CI: 13-51%), respectively. During the study only one patient achieved HBsAg seroconversion after 3years NAs therapy and only one patient experienced drug-related breakthrough during the study. Conclusion Patients with CHB in IT phase have relatively preferable safety and HBV DNA inhibition efficacy on long-term NAs treatment.
Prevalence of Simbu serogroup viruses antibodies in cattle in Sudan
Authors: Hussien Mohammed Osman , Alfaki Shima H , Enan Khalid A , Gafar Rana A. , Elhassan Amira M , Taha Khalid M , Hussein Abdel Rahim M. El
Published: January 2020

Background Simbu serogroup are arbo-viruses which are mainly transmitted by Culicoides. It is one of the largest serogroups within the genus Orthobunyavirus of the family Peribunyaviridae, includes at least 24 antigenically diverse, albeit serologically related viruses. Meager information is available on Simbu serogroup viruses infection in ruminants outside of Europe. Therefore, in this study, serological surveillance of Simbu serogroup viruses in cattle in seven States in Sudan was conducted during the period May, 2015 – March, 2016. Results Using a cross-sectional design, 184 cattle sera were collected and tested by a commercial SBV ELISA kit which enables the detection of antibodies against various Simbu serogroup viruses. The results showed an overall 86.4% prevalence of Simbu serogroup viruses antibodies in cattle in Sudan. Univariate analysis showed significant association (p= 0.007) between ELISA seropositivity and state where samples were collected. Conclusion This is study suggests that Simbu serogroup viruses infection can be present in cattle in Sudan. Further epizootiological investigations on Simbu serogroup viruses infection are warranted.
Design, synthesis, in silico studies and biological evaluation of 5-((E)-4-((E)-(substituted aryl/alkyl)methyl)benzylidene)thiazolidine-2,4-dione derivatives
Authors: Kumar Harsh , Deep Aakash , Marwaha Rakesh Kumar
Published: January 2020

Background: Looking at the extensive range of biological potential of thiazolidine-2,4-dione (TZD) moiety, a new series of thiazolidine-2,4-dione analogues was synthesized. Different spectral techniques (1H-NMR, IR, MS etc.) were used to confirm the chemical structures of the synthesized analogues. These synthesized compounds were then screened for their antioxidant and antimicrobial potential.Results and discussion: The antimicrobial screening was carried out against selected strains of fungi and bacteria using serial tube dilution method. The antioxidant potential was assessed using stable 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging method. Further, the interaction between synthesized thiazolidine-2,4-dione compounds and DNA gyrase was explored using molecular docking studies. Various ADME parameters were also studied to evaluate the drug likeness of the synthesized compounds. Conclusion: In antimicrobial evaluation, the compounds 4, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15 and 16 displayed promising activity against selected strains of microbes. Antioxidant evaluation found compound 6 having IC50 = 9.18 μg/mL to be the most potent compound in the series. The molecular docking study revealed compounds 4 (dock score = -4.73) and 7 (dock score = -4.61) with decent docking score possess good interaction inside the ATP binding pocket and therefore can be used as lead structure for further optimizing into potent antimicrobial molecule.
Second lung cancer risk in patients treated for cancer of the cervix: a Population-Based study in the SEER cancer registries
Authors: Xu Mingfang , Qian Chengyuan , Liu Hong , Feng Yan , Wang Dong , Dai Nan , Pu Yu
Published: January 2020

Background: As cervix cancer survival improves, the risk of developing a second cancer has become more important in particular lung cancer. However, the proportion of second primary non-small cell lung cancer after cervix cancer (CC-NSCLC) and associated clinical characteristics are unknown in comparison with first primary non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC1). Methods: The Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) cancer registry was used to conduct a large population-based cohort analysis of 16768 patients diagnosed with cervical cancer and 173272 patients diagnosed with NSCLC1 between 1998 and 2010. The analysis included demographic, clinical characteristics, prognostic data and risk factors for CC-NSCLC. Results: 557 (3.3%) patients developed CC-NSCLC and 451 were eligible for inclusion in the final analyses. The mean age at CC-NSCLC diagnosis was 62.9 years old. In comparison to NSCLC1, patients with CC-NSCLC had a higher rate of squamous cell carcinoma (36.59% vs 19.07%) and were more likely to be diagnosed in young, unmarried and black subgroups. Median survival time was longer for CC-NSCLC than NSCLC-1 before but not propensity score matching. Localized stage, adenocarcinoma, young age, surgical records, no radiotherapy records and well differentiation were associated with better prognosis in CC-NSCLC cohort. Conclusion: Patients with cervical cancer are at high risk of developing second primary lung cancers. High-risk factors include squamous carcinoma, 50-70years old, black, divorce, history of chemo-radiation therapy and poor differentiation. Prevention in this population as regards the increased risk for second primary cancers is crucial in order to improve the prognosis of patients.
Breast cancer risk and prognosis in relation to the sex of the first child: A systematic review and bias-adjusted meta-analysis
Authors: Furuya-Kanamori Luis , Doi Suhail A.R. , Thalib Lukman
Published: January 2020

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
The current status of gender equity in medicine in Korea: An online survey
Authors: Shin Hyun-Young , Lee Hang Aie
Published: January 2020

Background Although the number of women doctors has increased in South Korea, and efforts to improve gender awareness have gained importance in recent years, the issue of gender equity in the medical field has not been fully evaluated. The aim of this study was to determine the current status of gender equity in the medical profession in Korea. Methods An online survey on gender discrimination was conducted for two months, with both men and women doctors participating. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results A total of 1,170 doctors responded to the survey (9.2% response rate). The survey found that 47.3% of the women respondents and 18.2% of the men had experienced gender discrimination in the resident selection process ( p value <0.001); 17.2% of the women and 8.7% of the men had experienced discrimination during the fellowship application process ( p value <0.001); and 36.2% of the women and 8.0% of the men had experienced discrimination during the professorship application process ( p value <0.001). Both men and women cited the issue of childbirth and parenting as the number one cause of gender discrimination against women doctors. Conclusions This study revealed the presence of gender discrimination in the Korean medical society. To address discrimination, a basic approach is necessary to change the working environment so that it is flexible for women doctors, and to change the current culture where the burden of family care, including pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare, is the primary responsibility of women.
Experience With Acth In Membranous Nephropathy In Older Patients
Authors: Kutlay Sim , Kiremitci Saba , Eyupoglu Sahin , Sahin Gizem Kumru , Sengul Sule , Keven Kenan
Published: January 2020

Background The most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in the older population is probably memranous nephropathy (MN). Treatment of patients with nephrotic syndrome caused by MN with adrenocorticotrophic hormon (ACTH) is shown to be efficient as primary and secondary therapy. We present our experience using ACTH in older patients with MN.Methods Between 2016 and 2019 six older patients with MN were treated with ACTH gel. We have used tetracosactide, a synthetic analog of ACTH, in intramuscular doses of 1 mg twice a week for 6-9 months. Estimated glomerular filtration rate, levels of albumin, glucose and proteinuria were studied both before and monthly during the follow-up period. Response in proteinuria was assessed as percent reduction from baseline level and as percent of patients with complete or partial remission or no response. Safety and tolerability were evaluated using the reported adverse event frequency either by the patients or the treating nephrologist and using the frequency of discontinuation due to adverse events.Results Three patients achieved total and another two partial remission with ACTH therapy for 6 months. One of the patients did not meet partial remission criteria but had a decrease in proteinuria level. None of the patients experienced cardiovascular or infectious events or a decrease in renal function.Conclusions ACTH is a good therapeutic alternative in older patients with MN with preserved renal function. Further controlled studies are needed to clarify the benefits of ACTH as a first line treatment option in older patients with MN and compare its use with other currently available therapies.
Retrospective Investigation of Echinococcus granulosus Emergence in Translocated Elk (Cervus canadensis) in Tennessee (USA) and Examination of Canid Definitive Hosts
Authors: Dell BreeAnna Mary , Newman Shelley J. , Purple Kathryn , Miller Brad , Ramsay Edward , Donnell Robert , Gerhold Richard W.
Published: January 2020

Background Few reports of Echinococcus granulosus have been described in the Unites States; however, the geographical distribution of Echinococcus spp. in wild hosts is increasing consequent to human activities. Methods We investigated the prevalence of Echinococcus spp. in re-established elk ( Cervus canadensis ) populations in the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park via a retrospective analysis of banked elk tissues and an examination of intestinal contents from 11 coyotes ( Canis latrans ) from the North Cumberland Wildlife Management Area. Results Four elk were PCR and sequence positive for E. canadensis . Each sequence had 98% or greater coverage and identity to multiple E. canadensis genotypes in Genbank. Adult Echinococcus spp. were not detected in any of the coyotes examined in this study. Conclusions Continued surveillance of this disease in susceptible species in these areas is warranted, and these data further underscore the risk of zoonotic pathogen introduction secondary to wildlife translocation.
Coxiella burnetii infection in a patient did not involve tick bite
Authors: kim changwoo , Kim Choon Mee , Yun Na Ra , Kim Dong-Min
Published: January 2020

Background: Coxiella burnetii that causes Q fever in humans is transmitted through contaminated aerosols or consumption of raw milk from infected animals. Ticks are known to be vectors of C. burnetii, but their role in human infection is still controversial. Method: In this study, an epidemiological investigation was conducted on a 60-year-old man hospitalized with fever. Polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) were performed on the blood sample of the patient and the four ticks collected from the patient to diagnose vector-borne infectious diseases. Indirect immunofluorescence assays (IFAs) were performed on the serum sample to detect IgG and IgM antibodies specific to Q fever, spotted fever, Lyme disease, and anaplasmosis. Results: The ticks collected were identified as adult female Haemaphysalis longicornis. All PCRs performed on blood specimens yielded negative results, except for the Coxiella sp.-specific 16S rRNA nested PCR (N-PCR). Coxiella 16S rRNA N-PCR and sequencing results confirmed the presence of C. burnetii. IFA results indicated that the serum sample showed ≥ 4-fold increase in both IgM and IgG antibody titers against Q fever. PCR results were positive only for three ticks and showed the presence of C. endosymbiont. The phylogenetic tree showed that ticks had Coxiella-like bacteria and the patient had C. burnetii. The ticks carrying Coxiella-like bacteria were Haemaphysalis symbionts. Conclusions: Even though the patient and ticks were all positive to Coxiella sp.-specific 16S rRNA N-PCR, since different bacterial species were isolated from the patient and the ticks, we concluded that he was not infected with C. burnetii through tick bites.
An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used in the coastal bushland of Lindi District, Southeast Tanzania
Authors: Sakamoto Kumiko , Otieno Joseph Nicolao , Kileo Imaculate Constantine , Mbago Frank Mgalla
Published: January 2020

Background: An ethnomedicinal study was conducted to document the medicinal plants used for treating diseases in the coastal bushland of the Lindi Region in southeastern Tanzania. Methods: Semistructured interviews were conducted between August 2016 and September 2018 to collect information regarding local medicinal plant names, the diseases that they were used to treat, and the plant organ used to prepare remedies. The data collected were compared with previous reports within Tanzania and elsewhere and counted and cross-tabulated when appropriate. Results: A total of 108 species belonging to 49 families and 91 genera were reported. The most commonly used plant families were Caesalpiniaceae and Euphorbiaceae. The most commonly used plant types in the coastal bushland were trees and shrubs, and leaves were mostly used due to various reasons. The majority of the recorded plants were indigenous/natural, which included one newly identified and five endemic species. Most of the local names originated from the Mwera ethnic group. A total of 268 usage variations based on a combination of the plant organ used and disease treated were recorded for the species identified, including edibility. The documented diseases treated with medicinal plants included hernia, convulsion, stomachache, snake bites, skin parasites, abscesses, tinea capitis, malaria, and measles. Medicinal plants related to magic also constituted a significant proportion of uses. In this study, 64.9% of the plant species used to manage diseases were previously reported medicinal species. Moreover, 29.1% were used to manage a similar disease and 13.1% for the same disease, whereas 9.3% of the medicinal plants had the same organ used to treat the same disease as reported. Of the plants identified, 28.7% were edible. Within the study, new treatments that have not been previously reported in Tanzania were identified for 35.1% of the species. Conclusions: The use of mostly native plants to manage diseases in the study area was validated through cross-checking uses at other locations, and the therapeutic claims of the interviewees were verified. Some of the new findings and new species utilized may provide a basis for new medicinal compounds and remedies in the future.
In Vitro Evaluation of Antimicrobial potential of Some Medicinal Plants Extracted by Supercritical Fluid Extractor; Their Phytochemistry and GC-MS Analyses
Authors: Suleiman Waleed Bakry
Published: January 2020

BackgroundAlong with swift economy upgrowing and continuous amelioration of lifestyle, people at present are paying more attention to health issues. Synthetic drugs will be compensated with other natural ones which belong to natural origin. Plants have always been considered as sources of several compounds that are used in many fields, especially human and animal health, starting from boosting the immunity to treatment of infectious diseases caused by some pathogenic microbes such as bacteria, fungi as well as viruses. This study aimed to incorporate some types of plants within antimicrobial portfolio through examination of different six plants which were Cichorium intybus, Cinnamomum camphora, Commiphora myrrha, Foeniculum vulgare, Nerium oleander and Spartium junceum. As well, attempting to identify the active constituents of their extracts using GC-MS.Materials and MethodsAll selected plants were analyzed to determine their phytochemical composition such as phenolics, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and so on. Extraction step was done by sophisticated equipment called supercritical fluid extractor SFE through adjustment of specific conditions include temperature, time, flow rate and pressure to change the behavior of CO2. Testing the antimicrobial activity of each plant extract via agar well diffusion method through formation of clear zones against wide range of pathogenic test microorganisms including both Gram positive and negative bacteria as well as yeasts. Finally, attempting to identify primarily the constituents of each plant extract using GC-MS.Results and Discussioncrude extract of F. vulgare showed the highest potency against C. albicans, E. faecalis and S. typhimurirm, it contains some unique compounds such as squalene, eugenol and isoeugenol while, Extract of Cichorium intybus showed a moderate activity especially against C. libolytica and MRSA and it includes Vitamin A like compound which indicates antioxidant property.ConclusionConclusively, fennel gave a promising result as a good wide spectrum antimicrobial agent because it contains some compounds act as antimicrobial agents such as eugenol which was used as food preservative in addition to squalene which acts as antioxidant and antimycotic agent so, it will be useful especially while it was used in highly purified form excluding all undesirable subcomponents.
Prevalence of Asymptomatic Malaria in Leaiten, Eritrea, 2017.
Authors: Tsegai Meron Berhe , Gezae Hermon Mekonen , Kifle Tesfagabr Akalu , Liebe Hosanna Ghenbot , Gebrezgabiher Aklilu Gebreyesus , Andegiorgish Amanuel Kidane , Kidane Eyob Azaria , Tesfamariam Eyasu Habte
Published: January 2020

Background As much as malaria control interventions may be directed at restricting transmission through mosquito control and treatment of symptomatic cases, the effect of asymptomatic cases in the transmission of malaria has not been given too much attention. On the other hand, asymptomatic carriers do not seek treatment, becoming permanent reservoirs, and hence creating a real pose to the public health. Objective The purpose of the study was to determine the prevalence of asymptomatic malaria and its associated factors in Leaiten village, Eritrea. Methods 322 eligible participants were randomly selected and interviewed. Thin and thick blood films were collected and Giemsa-stained to determine blood parasitaemia and speciation using light microscopy. Multivariate Logistic Regression was used to assess relationship between the potential factors identified and asymptomatic malaria. Results The prevalence of asymptomatic malaria was 5.9%, with a predominantly higher proportion (P) of Plasmodium Falciparum (P= 94.7%, n=18) than Plasmodium Vivax (P= 5.3%, n=1). Most of the infections were low density and at their ring form (P = 94.7%, n = 18). Only one subject had medium density and a gametocyte stage infection (P = 5.3%). The odds of asymptomatic malaria by sex, age, occupation or education was not significantly different. Bed net usage in comparison to no usage was not a significant predictor of asymptomatic malaria (5.5% vs. 7.6, p-value = 0.519). Those with asymptomatic malaria who had previous malaria sickness (4.2%) was not significantly different to those who had never been sick (7.3%), (OR = 0.56, p-value = 0.248). People who lived near water body (8.5%) were equally likely to be asymptomatic to those who didn’t live near water body (4.9%), (OR = 1.82, p-value = 0.215), out of which, those who lived near open water body had no difference in acquiring asymptomatic malaria to those who lived near closed water body (OR = 2.26, p-value = 0.457). Conclusion This study indicated the hidden impact of asymptomatic malaria in perpetuating malaria transmission in the village. Further assessment of the impact of asymptomatic malaria, on malaria transmission, is needed based on a larger and more sensitive method.
Percutaneous vertebroplasty with high- versus low-viscosity bone cement for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures
Authors: Miao Feng , Zeng Xiaojun , Wang Wei , Zhao Zhou
Published: January 2020

Background: There is no consensus on the best choice between high- and low-viscosity bone cement for percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP). This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes and leakage between three cements with different viscosities in treating osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures.Methods: This is a prospective study comparing patients who were treated with PVP: group A (n = 99, 107 vertebrae) with high-viscosity OSTEOPAL V cement, group B (n = 79, 100 vertebrae) with low-viscosity OSTEOPAL V cement, and group C (n = 88, 102 vertebrae) with low-viscosity Eurofix VTP cement. Postoperative pain severity was evaluated using the visual analog scale. Cement leakage was evaluated using radiography and computed tomography.Results: There was no significant difference in the incidence of cement leakage between the three groups (group A 20.6%, group B 24.2%, group C 20.6%, P = 0.767). All three groups showed significant reduction in postoperative pain scores but did not differ significantly in pain scores at postoperative 2 days (group A 2.01 ± 0.62, group B 2.15 ± 0.33, group C 1.92 ± 0.71, P = 0.646). During the 6 months after cement implantation, significantly less reduction in the fractured vertebral body height was noticed in group B and group C than in group A (group A 19.0%, group B 8.1%, group C 7.3%, P = 0.009).Conclusions: Low-viscosity cement has comparable incidence of leakage compared to high-viscosity cement in PVP for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures. It also can better prevent postoperative loss of vertebral body height.
The Impact of Trade on Environmental Quality: A Business Ethics Perspective and Evidence from China
Authors: He Shuquan
Published: January 2020

This paper summarizes the arguments and counterarguments within the scientific discussion on the issue of the environmental impact of trade liberalization in the business ethics perspective. The main purpose of the research is to estimate different effects of trade on environment performance, namely the scale effect, technique effect, and trade-induced composition effects. Systematization literary sources and approaches for solving the problem of trade and environment indicate that they ignored country-specific factors and different economic development stages. The relevance of the decision of this scientific problem is that the research will provide profound insights on the impact of freer trade on the environment. Investigation of trade and environment performance in this paper is carried out in the following logical sequence: literature review, model specification, empirical estimation, and discussion. Methodological tools of the research are panel regression of data at the provincial level over the time period from 1997 to 2008. The object of research is China because China has experiences of fast development in trade. The paper presents the results of an empirical analysis by panel regression techniques for the estimation, which shows that trade itself has significantly positive effects on the environment. The research empirically confirms and theoretically proves that the impacts of trade liberalization on environment performance differ from pollutant to pollutant, and it rather depends upon the specific indicator in question. The results of the research can be useful for a number of policy implications for China as well as other developing economies in terms of business ethics.
Keywords: trade liberalization, China, environmental quality, business ethics.
Max Weber’s Bureaucracy and Job Performance in Bayelsa State Civil Service, Nigeria (from 1999-2018)
Authors: Makbere U.J.
Published: January 2020

The article is devoted to the study of the influence of bureaucracy on job performance. The main purpose of the research is to assess the place of bureaucracy in the company’s management system and to identify factors that reduce the quality of work. Systematization of literary sources and approaches to solving the problem of inefficient work of state authorities showed a low level of research on these issues, a high level of bureaucracy in the country, and significant shortcomings in the personnel management policy. The survey research design was employed in the study, and questionnaires served as the major instrument of data collection. Two theories were adopted – Max Weber’s bureaucratic theory and Fredrick Herzberg two-factor theory of motivation. Methodological tools of the study were the analytical method, the method of logical generalization and synthesis, the survey method, the period of the study was 1999-2018. The subject of the study was the Bayelsa State Civil Service, Nigeria. The data were from the Ministries (Mainstream) Departments, Extra-ministerial Departments, and Agencies. Findings reveal that job performance begets productivity as a result of motivation. That lack of training also hampers job performance. Again, that in the eyes of strict rules and regulations without compliance which results in punishment can also slow down the performance of work, and that, negative attitude of workers can tilt their behavior against job performance. Upon these, the study recommends that civil service rules and regulations should be made flexible, workers should be motivated and incorporated into decision-making process and employees should be given special training that will help enhance their job performance and finally, workers need to be recognized whenever they exhibit excellence in the discharge of the duties.
Keywords: bureaucracy, job performance, efficiency, and effectiveness.
The Impact of Corporate Governance on the Value of the Company in the Egyptian Stock Market
Authors: Elhennawy E.M.
Published: January 2020

This research aims to examine the relationship between corporate governance and the value of the company in the stock market, using a sample of non-financial companies listed on the Egyptian stock exchange for the period of four years 2015-2018. The study was conducted on companies registered in the Egyptian stock market, but after the exclusion of financial institutions because they are subject to special rules for disclosure and transparency and oversight, where a sample of non-financial companies will be selected at random. And You will get the necessary data for the applied research through the financial statements and reports of the Board of Directors and reports to the audit committees of listed companies in the Egyptian stock market during the period from 2015 and 2018, and the researcher will depend on the method of regression analysis to test the research hypotheses. The research problem stems from the need to answer the following questions: 1. Does corporate governance affect the level of the company’s performance? 2. Does the performance of the company’s affect value in the stock market? 3. Does corporate governance affect the value of the company in the stock market? The research is aimed at theoretical apartment: to identify the general framework for corporate governance in the light of the latest standards and studies and analyze the most important studies that have looked at the relationship between corporate governance and performance level of the company, as well as studies that looked at the relationship between corporate governance and the company’s value in the stock market in order to benefit from the findings of previous studies in this regard. The paper presents the results of an empirical analysis, studies the impact of corporate governance on the value of the company in the Egyptian stock market, which showed that there is a positive relationship, but not significant between the corporate governance index and the ratio of market value to book value per share, and the results indicate that there is a positive relationship, but not significant between the corporate governance index and the percentage of Tobin’s Q.
The results of the research can be useful through its response to the theme, which is a vital and important as it tests the relationship between corporate governance mechanisms and the performance of the company and its value in the stock market with the application in the Egyptian environment.
Keywords: corporate governance, firm value, and firm performance.
DEVELOPMENT OF BASIC CONCEPT OF ICT PLATFORMS DEPLOYMENT STRATEGY FOR SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING CONSIDERING TECTONIC THEORY
Authors: Demydov Ivan , Baydoun Najm Ahmad , Beshley Mykola , Klymash Mykhailo , Panchenko Oleksiy
Published: January 2020

This paper presents authors analytical view on social impacts as targeted advertisement into the network environment using Omori tectonic theory for description the processes of audience response evolution. This could be extremely important and useful in the modern world to realize desirable e-Gov informational policy in the circumstances of hybrid treats emergence that is especially relevant for the informational space and reaching a cyber-supremacy. Some mathematical and algorithmic basics were contributed for narrative description of information and communications technologies (ICT) architectural deployment could be used for outer regulation of audience response character by Social Media Marketing (SMM) principles. That could be performed by controlled distribution of specified digital content that contains respective key phrases, for example social advertisements and analyzing respective feed-backs. Some results of the empiric study of live audience response dependence on controlled impacts are discussed. Election processes data and recent media recordings for preliminary proof of the contributed concept feasibility have been analyzed. There were shown using gathered empiric data sets, that the extent of impacts to targeted audience response intensity could be the subject of outer regulation. The index has been contributed for assessment the efficiency of the impact’s propagation inside the audience by calculation of row correlation of keyword occurrence and audience response intensity. The approaches suggested in the article can be useful both for building effective interactive systems of state-society interaction and for detecting manipulative traits when influencing a specific audience
RESEARCH OF MAGNETIC FIELD DISTRIBUTION IN THE WORKING AREA OF DISK SEPARATOR, TAKING INTO ACCOUNT AN INFLUENCE OF MATERIALS OF PERMANENT MAGNETS
Authors: Shvedchykova Iryna , Melkonova Inna , Romanchenko Julia
Published: January 2020

Based on the results of a numerical-field analysis of the distribution of the magnetic force field in the working area of the disk magnetic separator, designed to clean bulk substances from ferromagnetic inclusions, the influence of the magnetic material of the poles of the magnetic system on the field distribution is determined. A consistent study of two magnetic systems assembled on the basis of magnetic materials of different classes is carried out. The finite element method implemented in the COMSOL Multiphysics software environment is used to calculate the distribution of magnetic induction in a disk magnetic separator with rare-earth and ferrite magnets. Due to the complexity of the spatial geometry of the force field in the working area of the disk magnetic separator, a three-dimensional model of the magnetic system is developed. A comparative analysis of the distribution of the magnetic force field in the working area of the disk separator with a highly coercive magnetic system and with a magnetic system based on ferrite blocks is carried out. As a result of the analysis, it is found that the indicators of the intensity and heterogeneity of the magnetic field for a highly coercive magnetic system significantly exceed the corresponding parameters of a ferrite magnetic system. It is proved that when choosing magnets for the magnetic system of a disk separator, preference should be given to highly coercive alloys, the magnetic properties of which significantly exceed the magnetic properties of ferrite magnets. To reduce the cost of the magnetic system of the disk separator, the use of a combined magnetic system assembled from magnetic materials of different classes is proposed. Studies of combined magnetic systems with various mass fractions of magnetic materials are done. The ratio of the mass fractions of magnets of various properties in the poles of the magnetic system is determined, at which sufficiently high magnetic characteristics are provided in the working area. It is shown that the presence of a ferrite fraction in the magnetic poles not only reduces the cost of the magnetic system of the separator, but also reduces the mass of the system. The tasks of further research are justified
DEVELOPMENT OF METHODS FOR DETERMINING THE CONTOURS OF OBJECTS FOR A COMPLEX STRUCTURED COLOR IMAGE BASED ON THE ANT COLONY OPTIMIZATION ALGORITHM
Authors: Khudov Hennadii , Ruban Igor , Makoveichuk Oleksandr , Pevtsov Hennady , Khudov Vladyslav , Khizhnyak Irina , Fryz Sergii , Podlipaiev Viacheslav , Polonskyi Yurii , Khudov Rostyslav
Published: January 2020

A method for determining the contours of objects on complexly structured color images based on the ant colony optimization algorithm is proposed. The method for determining the contours of objects of interest in complexly structured color images based on the ant colony optimization algorithm, unlike the known ones, provides for the following. Color channels are highlighted. In each color channel, a brightness channel is allocated. The contours of objects of interest are determined by the method based on the ant colony optimization algorithm. At the end, the transition back to the original color model (the combination of color channels) is carried out.

A typical complex structured color image is processed to determine the contours of objects using the ant colony optimization algorithm. The image is presented in the RGB color space. It is established that objects of interest can be determined on the resulting image. At the same time, the presence of a large number of "garbage" objects on the resulting image is noted. This is a disadvantage of the developed method.

A visual comparison of the application of the developed method and the known methods for determining the contours of objects is carried out. It is established that the developed method improves the accuracy of determining the contours of objects. Errors of the first and second kind are chosen as quantitative indicators of the accuracy of determining the contours of objects in a typical complex structured color image. Errors of the first and second kind are determined by the criterion of maximum likelihood, which follows from the generalized criterion of minimum average risk. The errors of the first and second kind are estimated when determining the contours of objects in a typical complex structured color image using known methods and the developed method. The well-known methods are the Canny, k-means (k=2), k-means (k=3), Random forest methods. It is established that when using the developed method based on the ant colony optimization algorithm, the errors in determining the contours of objects are reduced on average by 5–13 %.
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF GREENER CERAMIC MATERIALS WITH LOWER THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY USING OLIVE MILL SOLID BYPRODUCT
Authors: Spiliotis Xenofon , Karayannis Vayos , Lamprakopoulos Stylianos , Ntampegliotis Konstantinos , Papapolymerou George
Published: January 2020

In the current research, the valorization of olive mill solid waste as beneficial admixture into clay bodies for developing greener ceramic materials with lower thermal conductivity, thus with increased thermal insulation capacity towards energy savings, is investigated. Various clay/waste mixtures were prepared. The raw material mixtures were characterized and subjected to thermal gravimetric analysis, in order to optimize the mineral composition and maintain calcium and magnesium oxides content to a minimum. Test specimens were formed employing extrusion and then sintering procedure at different peak temperatures. Apparent density, water absorption capability, mechanical strength, porosity and thermal conductivity were determined on sintered specimens and examined in relation to the waste percentage and sintering temperature. The experimental results showed that ceramic production from clay/olive-mill solid waste mixtures is feasible. In fact, the mechanical properties are not significantly impacted with the incorporation of the waste in the ceramic body. However, the thermal conductivity decreases significantly, which can be of particular interest for thermal insulating materials development. Furthermore, the shape of the produced ceramics does not appear to change with the sintering temperature increase.
COMPARISON OF DT& GBDT ALGORITHMS FOR PREDICTIVE MODELING OF CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATES
Authors: Alsaleem Maan Y. Anad , Hasoon Safwan O.
Published: January 2020

Recently, many uses of artificial intelligence have appeared in the commercial field. Artificial intelligence allows computers to analyze very large amounts of information and data, reach logical conclusions on many important topics, and make difficult decisions, this will help consumers and businesses make better decisions to improve their lives, and it will also help startups and small companies achieve great long-term success. Currency exchange rates are important matters for both governments, companies, banks and consumers. The decision tree is one of the most widely artificial intelligence tools used in data mining. With the development of this field the decision tree and Gradient boosting decision tree are used to predicate through constructed intelligent predictive system based on it. These algorithms have been used in many stock market forecasting systems based on global market data. The Iraqi dinar exchange rates for the US dollar are affected in local markets, depending on the exchange rate of the Central Bank of Iraq and the features of that auction. The proposed system is used to predict the dollar exchange rates in the Iraq markets Depending on the daily auction data of the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI). The decision tree and Gradient boosting decision tree was trained and testing using dataset of three-year issued by the CBI and compare the performance of both algorithms and find the correlation between the data. (Runtime, accuracy and correlation) criteria are adopted to select the best methods. In system, the characteristic of artificial intelligence have been integrated with the characteristic of data mining to solve problems facing organization to use available data for decision making and multi-source data linking, to provide a unified and integrated view of organization data.
CHALLENGES IN ANAESTHESIA DURING SPACE EXPLORATION MISSIONS
Authors: Benson Stuart , Cable Gordon , Workman Lorna
Published: January 2020

Aim

NASA and private spacefaring companies plan to send exploration missions to mars within the next two decades. The environment of space, duration of the mission, distance from earth, and limited available resources present significant challenges for the provision of health care. It has been estimated that at least one medical emergency is likely to occur during such a mission, which may necessitate surgical treatment, and therefore anaesthesia. The provision of safe anaesthesia faces challenges arising from physiological adaptations to space, difficulty achieving and maintaining personnel expertise, possible pharmacological changes in anaesthetic agents used, limited consumable shelf-life and provision of intravenous fluids and blood products. In this review article we discuss these challenges in the context of a hypothetical case.
What children and young people learn about ADHD from youth information books: A text analysis of nine books on ADHD available in Dutch
Authors: Batstra Laura , Foget Linda , van Haeringen Caroline , te Meerman Sanne , Thoutenhoofd Ernst Daniël
Published: January 2020

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is not a singular concept. For the purposes of this study, understandings of ADHD are assumed also to spread along a conceptual dimension that includes some combination of biomedical and psychosocial knowledge. Biomedically, ADHD may be considered a somatic affliction causing inattention and hyperactivity, amenable to pharmaceutical treatment. Psychosocially, ADHD ranks among adverse behaviour patterns that are amenable to psychosocial and pedagogical intervention. Considering both biomedical and psychosocial factors are associated with the ADHD construct, it seems self-evident that young people should be offered information that gives equal consideration to both ways of addressing ADHD, but the question is just how balanced the information available to young people is. This study investigated nine information books on ADHD available in the Netherlands in Dutch, aimed at children and young people up to age 17. Thirteen perspective-dependent text elements were identified in qualitative content analysis. Eight attributes associate with a biomedical view: ADHD as cause, biological factors, clinical diagnosis, brain abnormality, medication, neurofeedback, heritability and persistence. Five text elements associate with a psychosocial view: ADHD as perceived behaviour, environmental factors, descriptive diagnosis, behavioural intervention and normalisation. The most frequent text passages encountered describe ADHD as a brain abnormality, along with medical and behavioural treatment. Providing the main focus for information in eight out of nine books, biomedical information about ADHD predominates in the available youth information books, while psychosocial information about ADHD is far less well covered.
Implementasi Maqashid Syariah dalam Sidang Itsbat Hilal Penentuan Awal Ramadhan
Authors: Ismail I , Ghofur Abdul
Published: January 2020

The trial of the initial determination of Ramadhan, Shawwal and Zulhijjah is often a criticism for those who say the initial determination of Ramadhan is in line with the reckoning system, it does not need a congregation hearing that consumes state money, leave it to the community to join the organization it believes. This paper explains the position of the congregation of itsbat to determine the beginning of Ramadan in the perspective of maqashid sharia. By analyzing the practice of the congregation trial and the prevailing rules in Indonesia, it can be concluded that the practice of the trial of the congregation has been classified as perfect for the initial determination of the month of Ramadan. In maqashid syariah, the trial of the initial determination of Ramadhan is included in the category of dharuriyyat in particular and hajiyat in general. The congregation is needed by the Muslim community of Indonesia, considering that to increase the value of benefit and reject the harm which is the core of maqashid sharia is in the trial of itsbat. Therefore, adhering to the congregation of itsbat is to maintain benefit while rejecting harm.