bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors influencing data saturation in qualitative studies
Authors: Mwita Kelvin
Published: June 2022

This study aims to evaluate the factors that influence data saturation in qualitative studies. The study adopted a systematic literature review of 24 journal articles published between 2018 and 2022. The articles were obtained from a Google scholar database.  The findings point to five factors that affect data saturation namely, pre-determined codes and themes, sample size, relevancy of research subjects (respondents), number of research methods, and length of data collection sessions. It is argued in this paper, therefore, that in order to attain data saturation, researchers should consider multiple factors that may affect data saturation in order to increase the validity of qualitative studies.
Digital influences on academic attainment
Authors: Makena Bulelwa , Omodan Bunmi
Published: June 2022

This paper aims to investigate whether e-learning has any significant influence on academic attainment. From this time, little is noted by literature about training teachers towards attaining the necessary skills needed for digital e-learning applications. Investigation for this paper was conducted through a qualitative research methodology. Authors decided to use this method with a concern of understanding the behaviour of humans as per teacher perspectives, leading to obtaining better understanding of underlying motives. For this qualitative investigation, three conveniently selected secondary school teachers from a rural school in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa were interviewed. Engaging with the participants through administration of the interview schedule assisted authors in obtaining reach data due to contained questions that had a specific element of being open-ended. A fundamental finding revealed that teachers across all subjects have since embarked at focusing on (i) learner-centered practical approaches to allow determined e-learning engagements, thus having an impact on (ii) learner turnout. On noting this perspective from the teacher participants, it is recommended that as citizens held up in the technological revolution, there seems to be a need for teaching-learning approaches to be altered. This study, therefore, concludes that as a means to enable enhanced learner attainment, rural versus urban digital variations be addressed
The effect of service failure on customer loyalty through customer forgiveness and service recovery as mediation variables
Authors: Laili Ivatul , Sumiati  , Sudjatno
Published: June 2022

This paper aims to examine more deeply the role of the customer forgiveness and service recovery variables on the relationship between service failure and loyalty. This research uses a go-car service on a gojek as the object of research. Go-car service was chosen because it is one of the services in Go-jek that has received a lot of criticism from its users. The respondents in this research were Go-Car service users who had experienced service failures when using the service. The determination of the number of samples in this research used a purposive sampling technique with a sample of 200 respondents. The method of collecting data is using a questionnaire, the data is analyzed using PLS-SEM.
Emotional branding, corporate image and its effect on the loyalty of JKN-KIS participants
Authors: Diana Permata Dina , Ananda Sabil Hussein  , Andarwati
Published: June 2022

Health as a basic necessity of life, the ownership of health insurance is very important and very influential in ensuring a safe and secure life. The National Health Insurance as part of the National Social Security System aims to meet the basic health needs of the Indonesian people. This study aims to analyze the role of satisfaction in mediating the influence of emotional branding and corporate image on customer loyalty. Independent participants of JKN-KIS BPJS Health Malang Branch as the sampling in this study. The sampling technique used purposive sampling with a sample of 130 respondents. Data analysis in this study used Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Square (SEM-PLS). The results of the study concluded that emotional branding affects loyalty and satisfaction; the corporate image has an effect on loyalty and satisfaction; satisfaction affects loyalty; satisfaction mediates the effect of emotional branding and corporate image on loyalty. Satisfaction acts as a partial mediating variable.
Factors constraining the role of intermediaries in provisions of storage services for urban fresh fruits and vegetables supply chain in Dar es Salaam
Authors: Makiluly Brighet Edward , Munishi Emmanuel J. , Issa Ibrahim , Hamidu Kirumirah Mubarack
Published: June 2022

Despite the critical role played by intermediaries in storage services of urban fresh fruits and vegetables, storage services of urban fresh fruits and vegetables in Dar es Salaam are still poorly provided by intermediaries. In this paper, we examine the factors constraining intermediaries in providing storage services in the sector. A qualitative case study was adopted and data were collected using documentary review, in-depth interviews, and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and non-participant observations based on the purposive sample size of 73 respondents. Thematic data analysis strategy was adopted and data were analyzed using MAXQDA 20 software. Findings showed that the intermediaries are generally constrained by technological-related factors, the inadequacy of funds to invest in modern storage, limited knowledge and awareness of modern storage, excessive temperature and atmospheric conditions. We recommend that, in order to improve storage services installation of modern storage facilities in markets and collection centers, providing loans to intermediaries to buy modern packaging and packing facilities, improving market infrastructures, and training intermediaries on the importance of proper storage and how to use contemporary methodology could solve the problem at hand.
The effect of entrepreneurial mindset, work environment on employees' work performance
Authors: Abun Damianus , Basilio Gladys Jean Q. , Fredolin Julian P. , Magallanes Theogenia
Published: June 2022

The study aims to examine the effect of the entrepreneurial mindset and work environment the individual work performance. To deepen the understanding of the concepts and establish the theories of the study, literature was reviewed. The study used a descriptive assessment and correlation research design. Total enumeration sampling was taken as the sampling design of the study. Therefore, the population of the study was all employees of Divine Word College of Laoag, a total of 169 employees. Questionnaires were used to gather the data and to determine the correlation, the ANOVA was used. The results indicate that entrepreneurial mindset and work environment and individual work performance are high and the result of the correlation found that both, entrepreneurial mindset and work environment are significantly correlated to the individual work performance.
Influence of search engine optimization (SEO) on business performance
Authors: Poturak Mersid , Keco Dino , Tutnic Eldar
Published: June 2022

The aim of the paper is to investigate the impact of SEO on the business performance of a private university in Sarajevo. Thus, the main research question provides the finding on how does the implementation of SEO influence the performance of the business. Moreover, the tested hypothesis presents whether SEO positively influences the business performance of International Burch University (IBU). The research strategy is to analyze primary data derived from a case study, which is generated following a conversation with the Head of the IBU Marketing and PR team. The data sample is derived from Google Analytics (focusing on the number of visits and sessions, average engagement time, keywords and SERP positioning). Seobility tools are employed in data analysis. Business performance is calculated through the IBU CRM system, focusing on student enrolment. Findings indicate that increasing a site's rankings on search engine results pages (SERPs) led to a variety of positive outcomes for companies including an increase in the number of visitors to the site, an increase in the average amount of time users spent on the site, increased user engagement, and an increase in student enrollment, which resulted in IBU increased annual sales revenue. It will benefit many different groups, including the government, which will benefit in both microeconomic and macroeconomic senses, digital marketing enthusiasts and SEO experts, and the academic world, which will benefit as a framework for future studies and research in the field of SEO recognition and implementation in business queries.
Performance-based assessment of long masonry structures
Authors: Cakir Ferit
Published: June 2022

Performance-based assessment (PBA) has become an increasingly important concept for assessing the structural performance of existing structures today. This procedure aims primarily to determine structural damage subject to predetermined load effects and evaluate the state of the building based on the damage obtained. However, because of their complicated engineering characteristics and structural performance, it is very difficult to evaluate the performance of long masonry structures, such as aqueducts, castle ramparts and city walls. The PBA of long masonry structures is extremely challenging because there is no valid approach to assessing their performance. In this study, a practical evaluation method is developed to assess the structural performance of long structures and the seismic performance of Valens Aqueduct, which was constructed by the Roman Empire in Istanbul, is examined using this method.
Inactivation of FOXO1 induces T follicular cell polarization and involves angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma
Authors: Xu Meifang , Wang Fei , Chen Hong , Liu Lin , Liu Wenwen , Yang Yinghong , Zheng Qiaoling , Zhang Lihong , Li Xiaoxuan , Lin Suxia , Zang Shengbing
Published: June 2022

Objective Angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma (AITL) is an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma derived from mature T cells. However, the underlying pathogenesis of AITL remains unresolved. We aimed to explore the role of FOXO1-mediated signaling in the tumorigenesis and progression of AITL. Methods FOXO1 expression was assessed using immunohistochemistry on a total of 46 AITL tissue samples. Retroviruses encoding FOXO1 shRNA were used to knockdown FOXO1 expression in CD4+ T cells. Flow cytometric assays analyzed the proliferation and survival of FOXO1 knockdown CD4+ T cells. Furthermore, we performed adoptive T-cell transfer experiments to identify whether inactivation of FOXO1 induced neoplastic follicular-helper T (Tfh) cell polarization and function. Results Patients with low FOXO1 protein levels were prone to have an advanced tumor stage (P = 0.049), higher ECOG ps (P = 0.024), the presence of bone marrow invasion (P = 0.000), and higher IPI (P = 0.035). Additionally, the survival rates of patients in the FOXO1 high-expression group were significantly better than those in the FOXO1 low-expression group (χ2 = 5.346, P = 0.021). We also observed that inactivation of FOXO1 increased CD4+ T cell proliferation and altered the survival and cell-cycle progression of CD4+ T cells. Finally, we confirmed that inactivation of FOXO1 induces Tfh cell programing and function. Conclusions Inactivation of FOXO1 in AITL plays a key role in the tumorigenesis and progression of AITL. We propose that FOXO1 expression could be a useful prognostic marker in AITL patients to predict poor survival, and to design appropriate therapeutic strategies.
The potential mechanism, recognition and clinical significance of tumor pseudoprogression after immunotherapy
Authors: Jia Wenxiao , Gao Qianqian , Han Anqin , Zhu Hui , Yu Jinming
Published: June 2022

As immunotherapy has gained increasing interest as a new foundation for cancer therapy, some atypical response patterns, such as pseudoprogression and hyperprogression, have garnered the attention of physicians. Pseudoprogression is a phenomenon in which an initial increase in tumor size is observed or new lesions appear, followed by a decrease in tumor burden; this phenomenon can benefit patients receiving immunotherapy but often leads to premature discontinuation of treatment owing to the false judgment of progression. Accurately recognizing pseudoprogression is also a challenge for physicians. Because of the extensive attention on pseudoprogression, significant progress has been made. Some new criteria for immunotherapy, such as irRC, iRECIST and imRECIST, were proposed to accurately evaluate the response to immunotherapy. Many new detection indexes, such as ctDNA and IL-8, have also been used to identify pseudoprogression. In this review, the definition, evaluation criteria, mechanism, monitoring, management and prognosis of pseudoprogression are summarized, and diagnostic and treatment processes for patients with progression but with a suspicion of pseudoprogression are proposed; these processes could be helpful for physicians in clinical practice and enhances the understanding of pseudoprogression.
Galactic Symmetry
Authors: Oldani Richard
Published: June 2022

Differences between the quantum mechanical and relativistic concepts of time are explained by using the equivalence principle. The resulting clock model calls for microscopic equations of motion to be formulated in Minkowski space, and for photons to be described as four-dimensional localizations of field. Because the properties of energy are universal the equations have been extended to include galaxies in spite of vast differences in lifetime. The comparison is possible due to a fundamental symmetry based on the conjugate variables energy and time.
Entropy and Its Application to Number Theory
Authors: Fujino Seiji
Published: June 2022

In this paper, we propose the expansion of the Planck distribution functions which is derived from the Boltzmann principle. Furthermore, we examine to expand Planck's law using new distribution functions. Moreover, using the ideas applied to the expansion of the Planck distribution function, we show that the derivation of Von Koch's inequality without using the Riemann Hypothesis and the negative consequence of the abc conjecture. Besides, we describe some issues for the future. Namely, we discuss that the Entropy is associated with the dynamical system, and the classical gravity theory of Newton's law and the electromagnetism of Coulomb's law by the law of inverse squares.
AIRS Satellite CO Data Confirm the Increase in Wildfires in the Northern Hemisphere Over the Past Two Decades
Authors: Yurganov Leonid
Published: June 2022

Biomass burning is an important and changing component of the global and hemispheric carbon cycles. In particular, boreal forest fires in Russia and Canada are important sources of greenhouse gases carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4). The influence of carbon monoxide (CO) on the climate is insignificant: its main absorption bands of 4.6 and 2.3 μm are far away from the climatically important regions of the spectrum. Meanwhile, CO concentrations in fire plumes are closely related to CO2 and CH4 emissions from fires. On the other hand, satellite measurements of CO are much simpler than those for the aforementioned gases. The Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) provides a long satellite-based CO data set. This article presents estimates of CO emissions from biomass burning north of 30° N using a simple two-box model. These results correlate closely with independently estimated CO emissions from the GFED4 bottom-up data base. Both ones reported record high emissions in 2021 throughout two decades, double the annual emissions comparing to the previous a few years. There have been several years with extreme emissions, but for the rest of data upward trend with a rate of 3.7 ± 2.3 Tg CO yr-2 (4.4 ± 2.8% per year), was found.
Practices of Indigenous Agriculture Knowledge of Farmers in India
Authors: Sharma Avinash , Manpoong Chowlani , Pandey Himanshu , Kumar Chandan , Baja Yani , Singh Sanjit , Mounglung Chitkiya
Published: June 2022

The traditional Agriculture Knowledge is epic information, was created by the forefathers in the past civilizations. The forefathers practiced traditional agriculture information during Harappa civilizations, Vedic and Iron Age civilizations. The present Small and Marginal farmer utilizes traditional information in the crop production & management, crop protection, farm machinery & tools, soil & water management, medicinal & aromatic plants for diseases diagnosis, animal husbandry, stored grain pests’ management, weed management and value added food product and transfers in the youth. The utilizing traditional informations in the agriculture practices are collected from the different geographical states of India. The informations are practiced in the specific activities by the farmers. The farmer utilizes compositions of natural resource in the geographical states for the crop husbandry and farm linked activities. The traditional information is more practiced by the Southern and North-Eastern Geographical zone. The farmer applies specific informations in the crop production & management, crop protection, farm machinery & tools, soil & water management, medicinal & aromatic plants for diseases diagnosis, animal husbandry, stored grain pests’ management, weed management and value added food product. The farmer preserves and transfers the information in the rural community. The farmer transmits information in the present generation for creating mobilization. The traditional agriculture information transforms agriculture resources, maintains biodiversity ethics and enlightens historical and practical approaches to the present generations.
A Cooperative Parallel Tabu Search Meta-heuristic for the Vehicle Routing Problem with Time Windows
Authors: El Fahim Hassan
Published: June 2022

This paper presents a cooperative parallel tabu search meta-heuristic for the vehicle routing problem with time windows. It is based on the scheme in which several search threads cooperate by asynchronously exchanging information on the best solutions identified. The exchanges are performed through a mechanism called adaptive memory which holds and manages a pool of solutions. This enforces the asynchronous strategy of information exchanges and ensures the independence of the individual search threads. Each of these independent threads implements a tabu search meta-heuristic. Comprehensive computational experiments and comparisons to best known solutions show that the proposed cooperative parallel tabu search algorithm is able to achieve 48 new best solutions on VRPTW benchmark instances.
Factorial of Sum of Two Nonnegative Integers Is Equal to Multiple of the Product of Factorial of the Two Nonnegative Integers
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: June 2022

This paper presents a theorem in factorial functions with the sum of any two nonnegative integers that is equal to multiple of the product of factorial of the same two nonnegative integers.
A Comprehensive Energy Model for an Optimal Design of a Hybrid Refrigerated Van
Authors: Maiorino Angelo , Mota-Babiloni Adrián , Petruzziello Fabio , Duca Manuel Gesù Del , Ariano Andrea , Aprea Ciro
Published: June 2022

The path towards decarbonization requires a progressive adaptation of all refrigeration systems, but only stationary ones have been intensely studied to improve their environmental performance. However, refrigerated transport is a vital piece of the cold chain, and it must be considered in the green transition. In this paper, we propose a model for a hybrid refrigerated van that includes photovoltaic panels and electric batteries to decrease total greenhouse gas emissions from the engine. Thermal, electrical, and battery sub-models are considered and integrated into the comprehensive hybrid solar-powered refrigerated van model. Different technologies are compared in economic terms, including Lithium and Lead-acid batteries and three different types of photovoltaic panels. The model was validated regarding van fuel consumption, showing a 4% deviation. Single and multiple delivery scenarios are considered to assess the energetic, economic, and environmental benefits. Monthly CO2,e emissions could be reduced to 20% compared to a standard refrigerated van. Despite the environmental benefits provided by this sustainable solution, the payback period is still too long (above 20 years) because of the necessary investment to adapt the vehicle and considering fuel and electricity prices currently.
Ecotype Division and Chemical Diversity of Cynomorium songaricum from Different Geographical Regions
Authors: Zhang Xinke , Sun Xiao , Miao Yujing , Zhang Min , Tian Lixia , Liu Chang , Huang Linfang
Published: June 2022

Cynomorium songaricum is an important endangered plant with significant medicinal and edible values. However, the lack of resources and quality variation have limited the comprehensive developments and sustainable utilization of C. songaricum. Here, we evaluated chemical and genetic traits of C. songaricum from the highly suitable habitat regions simulated with species distribution models. The PCA and NJ tree analyses displayed intraspecific variation in C. songaricum, that could be divided into two ecotypes: ecotype I and ecotype II. Furthermore, the LC-MS/MS-based metabolomic was used to identify and analyze the metabolites of two ecotypes. The results indicated that a total of 589 compounds were detected, 236 of which were significantly different between the two ecotypes. Specifically, the relative content and the kind of flavonoids were more abundant in ecotype I, which were closely associated with the medicinal activities. In contrast, amino acids and organic acids were more enriched in ecotype II, which may provide better nutritional quality and unique flavor. In summary, our findings demonstrate the ecotype division and chemical diversity of C. songaricum in China from different geographical regions and provide a reference for the development of germplasm and directed plant breeding of endangered medicinal plants.
A cidade importa: urbanização, análise regional e segregação urbana em tempos de pandemia de Covid-19
Authors: Sathler Douglas , Leiva Guilherme
Published: June 2022

No início de 2020, assentamentos urbanos em todo o mundo experimentaram a rápida expansão da síndrome respiratória aguda grave (SARS-CoV-2). As cidades foram os focos de contaminação nos países que apresentaram notificações significativas de Covid-19. Neste estudo, investigamos primeiramente a disseminação do novo coronavírus entre cidades espraiadas e compactas, examinando aspectos como densidade urbana, localização de pessoas e empregos e padrões de deslocamento. Nessa análise, a literatura anterior e os dados recentes de três grandes cidades distintas (Nova York, Los Angeles e São Paulo) apoiam a discussão. Com base na revisão da literatura, demonstra-se que a morfologia urbana, a infraestrutura e os projetos de mobilidade e atividades econômicas são aspectos relevantes do desenvolvimento urbano que podem afetar as interações entre os cidadãos e a disseminação da Covid-19. Além disso, observa-se que a escala regional e a análise da rede urbana também são importantes nos estudos que investigam o crescimento da Covid-19. Por fim, a revisão da literatura mostra que a vulnerabilidade socioespacial urbana é relevante em tempos de pandemia, diante das associações entre a disseminação da Covid-19 e aspectos socioespaciais nas cidades, como pobreza e desigualdade.
The Early Stage of US Antitrust and Trade Regulation in the Agricultural Sector
Authors: Csirszki Martin Milán
Published: June 2022

The article aims to analyse the legal history of antitrust and trade regulation provisions exclusively applying to the agricultural sector in the United States of America. Through the analysis of legal history, the article attempts to explore whether the agricultural sector and agricultural producers have always been in a privileged situation with regard to competition policy and regulation, and if they have, what the main impetus was for adopting agriculture-specific antitrust and trade regulation provisions. Within the study, first, I examine the historical antecedents of the Sherman Act. Second, I turn my attention to the first agricultural antitrust exemption under antitrust laws, namely, to Section 6 of the Clayton Act. Third, I present the historical aspects of the „Magna Charta” of agricultural cooperative marketing, the Capper-Volstead Act, then, fourth, I briefly map further federal trade regulation laws which regulate agricultural markets. In the end, I conclude.
Constitutional principles of environmental law in Romania: enshrinement in the Constitution and jurisprudence of the Constitutional Court
Authors: Kokoly Zsolt
Published: June 2022

The consolidation of the right to a healthy environment as one of the fundamental human rights can be seen as a result of the enshrinement in the Constitution of Romania since its revision in 2003, as well as the interpretations offered by The Constitutional Court in its pertinent jurisprudence. The present study aims to review previous research results in the field of legal doctrine and case law pertaining to environmental law in Romania, as well as to continue the examination of the most relevant cases contributing to the consolidation of constitutional dimensions of the right to a healthy and ecologically balanced environment.
Здоровье экосистем: понятие, методологические подходы, критерии оценки
Authors: Кузнецова Т. В. , Манвелова А. Б.
Published: June 2022

Всё возрастающая антропогенная нагрузка на водные экосистемы создаёт угрозы экологической безопасности, и в этой связи важным является экосистемный подход к эксплуатации природных ресурсов с целью разработки комплексных регулирующих мер в природоохранной сфере. Термин «здоровье экосистемы» широко используют в оценке экологического состояния акваторий представители зарубежных научных сообществ (HELCOM, ICES, OSPAR, MEDPOL), однако нечасто применяют отечественные исследователи. Концепция «здоровье экосистемы» не является новой парадигмой: она не только активно обсуждается с начала 2000-х гг. в научной литературе, но и закреплена в долговременных документах Евросоюза и в Водной рамочной директиве ЕС по стратегии сохранения окружающей среды. В статье на основе обзора существующих литературных данных представлены основные понятия, подходы и критерии оценки экологического состояния (здоровья) водных экосистем. Подчёркнуто, что оценка здоровья экосистем зависит от целей и задач экологических исследований, с чем связана применяемая методология и, соответственно, выбор методов и показателей, характеризующих состояние экосистемы. В обзоре рассмотрены понятие «здоровье организмов» и некоторые его атрибуты: поддержание гомеостаза, причинно-следственные связи в континууме здоровье — болезнь, функциональные адаптации. Представлен сравнительный анализ ряда подходов к оценке здоровья рек и морских акваторий. Рассмотрены различные показатели, комплексные индексы, биомаркеры экспозиции и эффектов, указывающие на подверженность водных экосистем изменениям в результате природных и антропогенных воздействий. Отдельное внимание обращено на необходимость применения комплексного экосистемного подхода в анализе состояния водных экосистем, что будет способствовать интегральной оценке последствий деятельности человека для целостности экосистем. На основе опыта выполнения международного проекта BONUS+/BEAST представлен комплексный биомаркерный подход к определению здоровья биоиндикаторов с последующей интерпретацией данных о состоянии здоровья экосистем, в которых эти организмы обитают. Авторы надеются, что обзор будет интересен как специалистам в области экологии водных экосистем, так и представителям природоохранных организаций, ответственным за проведение экологических экспертиз.
Рост криптофитовой микроводоросли Rhodomonas salina (Wislouch) D. R. A. Hill & R. Wetherbee, 1989 при разных условиях культивирования
Authors: Ладыгина Л. В.
Published: June 2022

Исследовано влияние температуры и освещённости на удельную скорость роста и на накопление биомассы криптофитовой микроводоросли Rhodomonas salina; определены оптимальные условия её культивирования для получения максимальной биомассы. R. salina культивировали на питательной среде Конвея (в собственной модификации) при температуре (20 ± 1), (24 ± 1) и (28 ± 1) °C и освещённости 13, 67, 135 и 202 μмоль квантов·м−2·с−1. Показано, что увеличение температуры до значений выше оптимальных приводит к снижению скорости роста и биомассы микроводоросли. Существенных различий в показателях роста R. salina при освещённости 135 и 202 μмоль квантов·м−2·с−1 (значения μ — (0,69 ± 0,04) и (0,64 ± 0,02) сут−1 соответственно) не зарегистрировано. Рост микроводоросли замедлялся при низкой освещённости (13 μмоль квантов·м−2·с−1) (значение μ — (0,33 ± 0,03) сут−1). Максимальная биомасса [(3,74 ± 0,28) г·л−1] получена при оптимальной температуре [(24 ± 1) °C] и освещённости 135 μмоль квантов·м−2·с−1. При оптимальных условиях культивирования максимальное накопление белка отмечено в экспоненциальной фазе роста (29 %), а липидов — в стационарной фазе (41 %).
Таксономический состав и сезонная динамика меропланктона в районе морского порта Кавказ, Керченский пролив
Authors: Селифонова Ж. П. , Самышев Э. З.
Published: June 2022

В северной части Керченского пролива (район морского порта Кавказ) был проведён мониторинг видового состава меропланктона, распределения его обилия и сезонной динамики численности. Материалом для исследования послужили сборы зоопланктона в разные сезоны 2017–2019 гг. в портовом районе и за его пределами. Тотальные ловы зоопланктона производили большой сетью Джеди (диаметр входного отверстия — 37 см, размер ячеи — 120 мкм) на глубинах от 5 до 8 м. Пробы фиксировали 2–4%-ным раствором нейтрального формальдегида и обрабатывали в лабораторных условиях по стандартной методике. Обнаружено 32 таксона меропланктона. Отмечено, что по плотности меропланктон загрязнённого района не уступает меропланктону относительно чистого участка и обеспечивает в них достаточный репродуктивный потенциал. В портовом районе массовыми были личинки усоногих раков и моллюсков, за пределами порта — личинки усоногих раков и двустворчатых моллюсков. Основу пула меропланктона составляли виды, толерантные к эвтрофикации вод и сульфидному заражению донных осадков, — личинки брюхоногих моллюсков Bittium reticulatum, личинки двустворчатых моллюсков Abra segmentum, Cerastoderma glaucum (летом) и Mytilaster lineatus (в начале осени), личинки усоногих раков Amphibalanus improvisus (весной). В сезонной динамике меропланктона исследуемого района выявлено летне-осеннее увеличение обилия, характерное для черноморских вод. Период наибольшего нереста донных животных и выхода в пелагиаль личинок продолжался с апреля по октябрь. Отмечено три пика плотности (апрель, июнь и сентябрь), которые были наиболее выражены в районе порта весной, а в открытой части — в начале осени.
Количественная структура сообщества микроводорослей морского льда (остров Русский, залив Петра Великого, Японское море)
Authors: Юрикова Е. А. , Бегун А. А.
Published: June 2022

Впервые для российского прибрежья Японского моря изучена количественная структура сообщества микроводорослей морского льда. Исследованием охвачены биотопы льда и подлёдного фитопланктона двух бухт острова Русский в зимний период 2020 и 2021 гг. Идентифицировано 88 видов микроводорослей из 50 родов и 7 отделов. Установлено, что сообщество микроводорослей льда характеризовалось бόльшим видовым богатством, чем подлёдный фитопланктон. Среди доминирующих видов наиболее многочисленными были планктонные диатомовые водоросли Chaetoceros socialis f. radians, Nitzschia frigida, Thalassiosira nordenskioeldii и Nitzschia sp. Диатомеи составляли основу сообщества, достигая в 2020 г. численности 1861,2 кл.·мл−1 в бух. Воевода и 751,2 кл.·мл−1 в бух. Новик, а в 2021 г. — 6846,3 и 17143,1 кл.·мл−1 соответственно. В 2020 г. в бух. Воевода численность клеток была максимальной в верхнем слое ледового керна и постепенно снижалась ближе к границе с подлёдной водой; в бух. Новик она была распределена почти равномерно по всему керну. В 2021 г. в бух. Воевода отмечена противоположная закономерность: в верхних слоях керна численность микроводорослей была минимальной, а по ходу продвижения вниз, к границе с подлёдной водой, она постепенно возрастала. В бух. Новик максимум численности зарегистрирован в верхнем слое керна, притом что распределение по всем слоям было относительно равномерным. Таким образом, показаны различия в количественной структуре микроводорослей льда в зависимости от слоя ледового керна, года и места исследования.
Effective Inclusion Practices for Neurodiverse Children and Adolescents in Informal STEM Learning: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Jenson Ronda Jean , Lee Michele Sky , Day Arden D , Hughes Amy E , Maroushek Emma E , Roberts Kelly D
Published: June 2022

Background: Informal learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) can enhance STEM learning that occurs in formal educational settings and curricula as well as generate enthusiasm for considering STEM careers. The aim of this systematic review is to focus on the experiences of neurodiverse students in informal STEM learning. Neurodiversity is a subgroup of neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism, attention deficit disorder, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and other neurological conditions. The neurodiversity movement regards these conditions as natural forms of human variation, as opposed to dysfunction, and recognizes that neurodiverse individuals possess many strengths relevant to STEM fields. Methods: The authors will systematically search electronic databases for relevant research and evaluation articles addressing informal STEM learning for K-12 children and youth with neurodiverse conditions. Eight databases and content-relevant websites (e.g., informalscience.org) will be searched using a predetermined search strategy and retrieved articles will be screened by two members of the research team. Data synthesis will include meta-analysis and meta-synthesis techniques, depending on the quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods designs of the studies. Discussion: The synthesis of the findings resulting from various research and evaluation designs, across the K-12 age span, and across various informal STEM learning contexts, will lead to depth and breadth of understanding of ways to improve informal STEM learning programs for neurodiverse children and youth. The identification of informal STEM learning program components and contexts shown to yield positive results will provide specific recommendations for improving inclusiveness, accessibility, and STEM learning for neurodiverse children and youth. Systematic Review Registration: The current study has been registered in PROSPERO. Registration number: CRD42021278618
Molecular and Clinical Profile of patients referred as Noonan or Noonan-like Syndrome in Greece: a cohort of 86 patients
Authors: Papadopoulos George , Papadopoulou Anna , Kosma Konstantina , Papadimitriou Anastasios , Papaevangelou Vassiliki , Kanaka-Gantenbein Christina , Bountouvi Evangelia , Kitsiou-Tzeli Sophia
Published: June 2022

Noonan syndrome (NS) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by clinical and genetic heterogeneity. It belongs to a wider group of pathologies, Rasopathies, due to the implication of mutations in genes encoding components of the Ras/MAPK signalling pathway. Recording the genetic alterations across populations helps assessing specific features to specific genes which is essential for better disease’s recognition, prognosis and monitoring. Herein, we report the clinical and molecular data of a Greek cohort comprising of 86 NS or NS-like patients admitted at a single tertiary Centre in Athens, Greece. The analysis was performed using Sanger and Next-Generation-Sequencing, comprising 14 different genes. The mutational rates of the confirmed NS-associated genes in the Greek NS population are: PTPN11 32.5%; RIT1 5.8%; SOS1 4.7%; BRAF 1.2%; CBL 1.2%; KRAS 1.2%; MAP2K1 1.2%; RAF1 1.2%; SHOC2 1.2%, corresponding to 50% of positivity in total NS population. The genotype-phenotype analysis showed statistically significant differences regarding craniofacial dysmorphisms (p=0.005) and pulmonary valve stenosis (PS) (p<0.001) between patients harboring a mutation in any of the tested genes and mutation-free patients. Patients with at least one mutation had 6.71 times greater odds to develop PS compared to mutation-negative patients [OR=6.71, 95%; CI= (2.61, 17.27)]. PTPN11 positive patients showed higher frequency of epicanthal folds (p=0.004), ptosis (p=0.001) and coarseness (p=0.001) and lower frequency of neurological findings (p=0.006) , compared to patients with carrying mutations in other genes. Conclusion: Craniofacial dysmorphismand PS prevail among mutation positive compared to mutation negative NS and NS-like patients while neurological defects are less common in PTPN11 mutated NS patients compared to patients with mutations in other genes The significant prevalence of the Ras/MAPK mutations (17.4%), other than PTPN11, in Greek patients, highlights the necessity of a wider spectrum of molecular diagnosis.
Thermally Radioactive Bioconvection of Magnetized Sutterby Nanofluid over a Stretching Cylinder
Authors: Awan Aziz Ullah , Shah Syed Asif Ali , Waqas Hassan
Published: June 2022

The current article analyzes bioconvection aspects in Sutterby nanofluid flow across stretching cylinder with conductivity that varies with temperature. The non-linear thermal radiation and higher-order slip is scrutinized. The behavior of mass diffusivity and activation energy is investigated in this communication. The main object of this article is to enhance the heat transformation rate. A system of PDEs addresses the current physical problem. The appropriate similarity transformation reduces the PDEs system to the ODEs system. The set of non-linear ODEs is numerically solved utilizing bvp4c code built-in MATLAB. The result of the problem is discussed graphically. It is found that velocity profile diminishes for the boosted values of 1st order and 2nd order slips parameters while temperature enhances by increasing the values of non-linear thermal radiations. Moreover, the value of Nusselt number, skin fraction coefficient, and Sherwood number are evaluated through tables.
High-Dose Chemotherapy with Stem Cell Rescue to Treat Stage III Homologous Deficient Breast Cancer: Factors Influencing Clinical Implementation
Authors: Verbeek Joost Gijs Edmond , de Jong Vincent M.T. , Wijnja Hanna M. , Jager Agnes , Linn Sabine C. , Retèl Valesca P. , Harten Wim H. van
Published: June 2022

Purpose: High-dose chemotherapy with autologous stem cell rescue (HDCT) is a promising treatment for patients with stage III, HER2-negative, homologous recombination deficient (HRD) breast cancer. Clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness are currently under investigation in an international multicenter randomized controlled trial. To increase the chance of successful introduction of HDCT into daily clinical practice, we aimed to identify relevant factors for smooth implementation using an early comprehensive assessment framework. Methods: This is a qualitative, multi-stakeholder, exploratory research using semi-structured interviews guided by the Constructive Technology Assessment model, which evaluates the quality of a novel health technology by clinical, economic, patient-related, and organizational factors. Stakeholders were recruited by purposeful stratified sampling and interviewed until sufficient content saturation was reached. Two researchers independently created themes, categories, and subcategories by following inductive coding steps, these were verified by a third researcher. Results: We interviewed 28 stakeholders between June 2019 and April 2021. In total, five overarching themes and seventeen categories were identified. Important findings for optimal implementation included the structural identification and referral of all eligible patients, early integration of supportive care, multidisciplinary collaboration between- and within hospitals, (de)centralization of treatment aspects, the provision of information for patients and healthcare professionals, and compliance to new regulation for the BRCA1-like test.Conclusions: In anticipation of a positive reimbursement decision, we recommend to take the highlighted implementation factors into consideration. This might expedite and guide high-quality equitable access to HDCT for patients with stage III, HER2-negative, HRD breast cancer in the Netherlands.
Spatiotemporal mapping of malaria incidence in Sudan using routine surveillance data
Authors: Elagali Ahmed , Ahmed Ayman , Makki Nada , Ismail Hassan , Ajak Mark , Alene Kefyalew Addis , Weiss Daniel , Mohammed Abdalla Ahmed , Abubakr Mustafa , Cameron Ewan , Gething Peter , Elagali Asmaa
Published: June 2022

Malaria is a serious threat to global health, with over 95% of the cases reported in 2020 by the World Health Organization in African countries, including Sudan. Sudan is a low-income country with a limited healthcare system and a substantial burden of malaria. The epidemiology of malaria in Sudan is rapidly changing due to factors including the rapidly developing resistance to drugs and insecticides among the parasites and vectors, respectively; the growing population living in humanitarian settings due to political instability; and the recent emergence of Anopheles stephensi in the country. These factors contribute to changes in the distribution of the parasites species as well as malaria vectors in Sudan, and the shifting patterns of malaria epidemiology underscore the need for investment in improved situational awareness, early preparedness, and a national prevention and control strategy that is updated, evidence based, and proactive. A key component of this strategy is accurate, high-resolution endemicity maps of species-specific malaria. Here, we present a spatiotemporal Bayesian model, developed in collaboration with the Sudanese Ministry of Health, that predicts a fine-scale (1 km × 1 km) clinical incidence and seasonality profiles for Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax across the country. We use monthly malaria case counts for both species collected via routine surveillance between January 2017 and December 2019, as well as a suite of high-resolution environmental covariates to inform our predictions. These epidemiological maps provide a useful resource for strategic planning and cost-effective implementation of malaria interventions, thus informing policymakers in Sudan to achieve success in malaria control and elimination.
Carbohydrate utilization by the gut microbiome determines host health responsiveness to whole grain type and processing methods
Authors: Smith Caroline , Haute Mallory J. , Xian Yibo , Munoz Rafael R. Segura , Schmaltz Robert J. , Ramer-Tait Amanda E. , Rose Devin J.
Published: June 2022

Little is known about how grain processing, grain type, and carbohydrate utilization (CU) by the microbiome influence the health benefits of whole grains. Therefore, two whole grains—brown rice and whole wheat—and two processing methods—boiling (porridge) and extrusion—were studied for their effects on host metabolic outcomes in mice harboring human microbiomes previously shown in vitro to have high or low CU. Mice carrying either microbiome experienced increases in body weight and glycemia when consuming Western diets supplemented with extruded grains versus porridge. However, mice with the high CU but not low CU microbiome also gained more body weight and fat over time and were less glucose tolerant when consuming extruded grain diets. In the high CU microbiome mice, the exacerbated negative host health outcomes associated with extrusion were related to altered abundances of Lachnospiraceae and Ruminococcaceae, contributing to elevated sugar degradation and colonic acetate production. The ASVs associated with the extruded and porridge diets in this in vivo study were not the same as those identified in our prior in vitro study; however, the predicted functions were highly correlated. In conclusion, mice harboring both high and low CU microbiomes responded to the whole grain diets similarly, except the high CU microbiome mice exhibited exacerbated effects due to excessive acetate production. Our work demonstrates that a greater understanding of food processing effects on the microbiome is necessary for developing foods that promote rather than diminish host health.
The Effects of Simmelian Ties on Innovation of Low-carbon Technology: A study of top managers' environmental awareness and stakeholder pressure in China
Authors: Jiang Yuguo , Asante Dennis , Ampaw Enock Mintah , Zheng Yangchen
Published: June 2022

Low-carbon technology innovation (LTI) engenders environmental protection and socio-economic development. Hence, low-carbon innovation of enterprises becomes a crucial policy arena for national development and climate mitigation strategy. LTI is now associated with the reputation and competitive edge of enterprises. We constructed a framework to empirically explore the impact of simmelian ties (ST) on LTI, testing the moderating effect of stakeholder pressure in this relationship. We used a sample of 385 employees from industrial enterprises in China through a structured questionnaire. The study results show that: first, when the enterprise is in a strong ST, the top managers' awareness of environmental benefits has a significant positive impact on LTI. Second, when the enterprise is in a weak ST, top managers' awareness of environmental risk has a significant positive impact on LTI. Third, pressure of key stakeholders and pressure of secondary stakeholders positively moderate the interaction between ST and top managers' environmental awareness (TMEA) on the impact of LTI. Fourth, the moderating effect of key stakeholders pressure was observed to be stronger than that of secondary stakeholders pressure. Theoretically, this paper contributes to literature by developing a framework to investigate interaction between ST, TMEA, and LTI under different stakeholder pressure. Against this framework, we provide a theoretical reference for enterprises to choose the appropriate and optimal TMEA for competitive edge.
Associations of dietary patterns with brain morphology in children: Results from a prospective population-based study
Authors: Mou Yuchan , Blok Elisabet , Barroso Monica , Jansen Pauline W. , White Tonya , Voortman Trudy
Published: June 2022

Dietary patterns in childhood have been associated with child neurodevelopment and cognitive performance, while the underlying neurobiological pathway is unclear. We aimed to examine associations of dietary patterns in infancy and mid-childhood with pre-adolescent brain morphology. We included 1888 and 2326 children with dietary data at age one or eight years, respectively, and structural neuroimaging at age 10 years in the Generation R Study. Measures of brain morphology were obtained using magnetic resonance imaging. Dietary intake was assessed using food-frequency questionnaires, from which we calculated diet quality scores based on dietary guidelines and from which derived dietary patterns using principal component analyses. Associations were examined using regression models adjusted for potential confounding and controlled for multiple testing. At age one year, children with higher adherence to dietary patterns labeled as ‘Snack, processed foods and sugar’ had smaller cerebral white matter volume (B = -4.30, 95%CI -6.92, -1.68). At age eight years, higher adherence to diet patterns labeled as ‘Whole grains, soft fats and dairy’ was associated with a larger total brain (B = 8.93, 95%CI 4.54, 13.32), and larger cerebral gray matter volumes (B = 5.17, 95%CI 2.86, 7.48). Children with higher diet quality and better adherence to a ‘Whole grains, soft fats and dairy’ dietary pattern at age eight years showed greater brain gyrification and larger surface area, clustered primarily in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. In conclusion, dietary patterns in early- and mid-childhood are associated with differences in brain morphology. These findings may explain part of the previously reported relation between dietary patterns and neurodevelopment in children.