bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convergence estimates of some iterative algorithms for numerical modeling of two-dimensional equations of magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Krukovskiy Alexander Yur’evich , Poveschenko Yuri Andreevich , Podryga Victoria Olegovna , Boykov Dmitri Sergeevich
Published: March 2022

In this work, the convergence of the methods of separate and combined solution of difference equations groups separated by physical processes, applied to completely conservative difference schemes (CCDS) of two-dimensional magnetohydrodynamics, is studied. The corresponding estimates for the convergence of iterative processes for the entire family of CCDS are obtained. The area of applicability of this method is shown. The validity of the estimates obtained in the work is confirmed by numerical calculations. Depending on the velocity of convergence of the iterative process, based on the estimates determined in this work, recommendations were developed on the use of one of the two methods under study (separate or combined solution of groups of difference equations).
Pedagogical Technologies for the Development of Students' Professional Competence
Authors: Voloshyn Mariia , Babkina Маiya , Yaremko Halyna
Published: March 2022

The main purpose of the article is to study the basic provisions of the use of pedagogical technologies for the development of students' professional competence. Improving the training of specialists requires finding effective ways to form students' systemic ideas about the object of their professional activity, the skills and abilities of its research, organization and management. One of the most pressing problems in the field of professional training is the formation of various aspects of the professional culture of specialists, which are an expression of the maturity and development of the entire system of socially significant qualities, is productively implemented in individual activities and is inextricably linked with their personal culture. During their studies at the university, students should receive comprehensive pedagogical training, a sincere interest in creative search and the formation of pedagogical professionalism. As a result of the study, the main trends, aspects and prospects of the use of pedagogical technologies for the development of students' professional competence were revealed
Challenges for teacher training: with the word teachers
Authors: Ribeiro Júlia Cecília de Oliveira Alves , Nunes Claudio Pinto
Published: March 2022

This article aims to present some of the challenges faced by teachers to achieve higher education. The study showed an advance in public policies for teacher training from the 2000s and an increase in the number of teachers trained at a higher level in this period. Based on the assumptions of historical dialectical materialism and using a quantitative and qualitative methodology, a survey was conducted with teachers from a small municipality in the south-central Bahia and, it was evident that, in municipalities with this configuration, teachers are the main ones. responsible for their own training, in addition to facing challenges ranging from displacement to other cities, such as more serious issues such as granting or not aid according to political preferences, among others. Such a situation contradicts what is determined in the legal mechanisms and suggests the need for greater reach of public policies for this purpose.
Espectroscopia de resonancia acústica por impacto para la caracterización del estado del hormigón: módulos dinámicos de elasticidad y de rigidez
Authors:   Universitat Politécnica de València, Grupo de Investigación en Química de los Materiales de Construcción (GIQUIMA), Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología del Hormigón (ICITECH, España), Payá Jordi , Genovés Vicente ,   Ultrasound Systems and Technology Group (USTG-ITEFI) Spanish National Research Council (CSIC, España)
Published: March 2022

Esta Recomendación Técnica tiene como objeto describir los ensayos no destructivos basados en la espectroscopia de resonancia acústica (o de vibración) por impacto (ondas mecánicas) aplicados al hormigón: metodologías, disposición de los elementos de ensayo, interpretación de los resultados y cálculos de los módulos de elasticidad y rigidez.
The Effect of Steam Loading Distance Learning on Creative Character and Independence
Authors: Amalia Dina , Sutarto Joko , Pranoto Yuli Kurniawati Sugiyo
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this research is to find out the influence of STEAM-charged distance learning on creative character and independence in several PAUD in Central Java. This research is descriptive quantitative research, with a survey approach. The population and samples in this study were teachers and parents (n=140) in several PAUD in Central Java. Based on data processing and analysis that STEAM loaded distance learning has mostly been implemented in several PAUD in Central Java. Based on the results of the hypothesis test calculation obtained the value of creative character Fvalue of 125,851 and Fvalue independence of 78,082 so that the results obtained that STEAM loaded distance learning affects the creative character and independence, with the hope that the child is more effective and able to solve the problems faced. Obstacles in this study include many parents who do not understand the task of child development and the process of distance learning of children, so this article seeks to explain the importance of strengthening STEAM charged distance learning in children so that the child has an effective learning experience to improve creative character and independence, it can be done by improving cooperation between teachers and parents.
Reflexões sobre a lei de migração no Brasil: entre o mínimo da dignidade e a máxima efetividade da Constituição
Authors: Dalla Riva Leura , Petters Melo Milena
Published: March 2022

Diante da edição da nova Lei de Migração pelo legislador brasileiro, motivada pelo aumento da mobilidade humana em termos globais, bem como pela necessidade de adequação da legislação migratória infraconstitucional aos preceitos da Constituição de 1988, este artigo apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa de base bibliográfica e de estudo da legislação pertinente, em que foi utilizado o método comparatístico e dialógico, contextualiza os fluxos migratórios na era da globalização, marcada pelo retorno de discursos discriminatórios e xenófobos, analisa a lógica do Estatuto do Estrangeiro de 1980 e busca verificar se a Lei 13.445/2017 proporciona, de fato, um tratamento mais digno aos migrantes pelo Estado brasileiro. Para tanto, propõe também algumas reflexões sobre o princípio da Dignidade Humana, fundamento do Estado Democrático de Direito no Brasil e da ordem internacional pautada nos Direitos Humanos, a fim de demonstrar que a superação da lógica restritiva do Estatuto do Estrangeiro é essencial para a proteção do ser humano como fim em si mesmo.
A primordial importância da motivação das decisões administrativas em tempos de Covid-19
Authors: Ferreira Daniel , Teixeira Alan José de Oliveira
Published: March 2022

Em 2020 o surto do coronavírus (Covid-19) se tornou emergência de saúde de importância internacional, em razão de sua propagação intercontinental e do desconhecimento acerca da recente doença. Fronteiras foram fechadas, voos suspendidos e houve preocupação a nível global com a nova patologia. Em termos jurídicos, percebeu-se a edição de medidas de enfrentamento pelos países, inclusive pelo Brasil. No contexto pátrio, a situação de calamidade pública foi reconhecida pelo Decreto Legislativo 6/2020 e foi publicada a Lei 13.979/2020 para reger o período. Nesse cenário, houve a protagonização das decisões administrativas, as quais implicam a necessidade de pesquisa acerca da adequada motivação na atual conjuntura. Assim, por meio de levantamento bibliográfico, o presente trabalho irá investigar os limites e possibilidades da motivação das decisões administrativas durante a crise sanitária no Brasil, sensível à importância das decisões públicas do contexto. Ao final, concluiu-se que a importância da motivação das decisões administrativas em tempos de Covid-19, perfaz-se na necessidade de controle público (social, técnico e político), além da necessidade de se evitar fraudes e corrupção nas contratações públicas e na regulação sanitária, as quais devem ter como norte o interesse público, que, no ambiente em tela, deve contemplar um mínimo de consenso científico.
Direito e políticas públicas: mapa da área
Authors: Clune William H.
Published: March 2022

A relação entre direito e políticas públicas é marcada tanto pela complexidade, quanto pela imprecisão semântica envolvendo os dois termos. Em razão da abordagem Direito e Políticas Públicas ser ainda recente, são escassos os trabalhos que apresentam uma estrutura analítica adequada a ela. Buscando preencher essa lacuna, apresenta-se um “mapa da área”, construção analítica proposta para abarcar o conteúdo e a estrutura intelectual que contemple os elementos de divergência e convergência entre direito e políticas públicas, especialmente naquilo que esses saberes possuem em comum. A emergência da ideia de empoderamento como um modelo jurídico para o desenho institucional de políticas públicas nas mais diversas áreas é um desses planos. Aborda-se a justaposição existente entre política pública e direito, considerando as origens das políticas públicas no Estado de bem-estar e sua influência sobre o direito e a conformação das instituições jurídicas. Tomando por base o mercado como modelo de barganha estruturada, examina-se o papel instrumental das instituições jurídicas, para analisar as  ferramentas e desafios epistêmicos da abordagem. Destacam-se o conflito entre o formalismo e o consequencialismo jurídicos e a interface entre técnicas analíticas e conceitos aplicáveis.
Activity of Hepatic Enzymes of Isolated Hepatocytes under the Influence of Copper Acetate
Authors: Dremina Natalia , Trukhan Irina , Say Olesya , Shurygina Irina
Published: March 2022

The article describes a biochemical method for characterizing the hepatocyte culture under the action of CA. Isolated primary hepatocyte culture was exposed to CA in different concentrations, and then the activity of ALT, AST, ALP, and the amount of glucose, in the culture medium was determined. The result showed that the level of cell membrane damage and the release of ALT and AST into the extracellular space depend on the concentration of the acting substance, and, in addition, AST was found to be more sensitive to the toxic effects of CA. However, the activity of ALP proved to be an indicator of the copper ions' action on the enzyme but not of destructive processes in the hepatocyte culture. At the same time, a decrease in the glucose level may be used as a characteristic of the cell metabolic activity. Based on the results obtained, we can conclude that proposed analysis methods allow us to comprehensively characterize the processes occurring with cultured hepatocytes under the influence of CA.
Modern Technologies of Endoscopic Hemostasis in the Treatment of Ulcer Gastroduodenal Bleeding: A Literature Review
Authors: Cherednikov Evgeniy , Barannikov Sergey , Yuzefovich Igor , Chernykh Aleksandr , Berezhnova Tatyana , Polubkova Galina , Banin Igor , Maleev Yuri , Ovsyannikov Evgeniy , Shkurina Irina
Published: March 2022

The treatment of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) remains one of the complex problems of clinical practice. In the structure of UGIB, 30%-60% of cases are occupied by bleeding of ulcerative etiology. Success in treating patients with ulcerative gastroduodenal bleeding is possible only with the use of an integrated approach that includes endoscopic, medicinal, endovascular, and surgical hemostasis technologies. In contrast, endoscopic hemostasis (EH) is crucial in the treatment of such patients. The use of modern advances in endoscopy can significantly improve the treatment results of patients with UGIB, reducing the number of operations and mortality in this severely affected group of patients. Modern therapeutic endoscopy has a wide arsenal of tools that can reliably stop bleeding. They differ from each other in the nature of impact, effectiveness, availability, safety, and cost. This article presents an overview of the technological and clinical features of hemostasis, modern views on the choice and application of methods of EH for ulcerative gastroduodenal bleeding.
Imaging of Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Bedewi Mohamed
Published: March 2022

The International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) defined neuropathic pain as “pain arising as a direct consequence of a lesion or disease affecting the somatosensory system.” The origin of neuropathic pain (NP) could be from the brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves. NP represents a major neurological problem, with a prevalence of 1%-2% of the total population. It is disabling, rendering an urgent need for non-addictive, effective new therapies, and is characterized by resistance to treatment and poor patient satisfaction. We aim to review the role of modern imaging in the diagnosis of NP and the potential advantages and limitations of each modality. Functional MRI is one of the commonly used imaging modalities for NP.
The Ability of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound, Conventional Ultrasound, and 99mTc-MIBI Scintigraphy for the Detection of Parathyroid Lesion in Patients with Primary Hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Alramadhan Maryam , Alsolai A , Eisa Rana , Gareeballah Awadia
Published: March 2022

The aim of this review was to compare the efficiency of conventional ultrasound (CUS), contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), and 99mTc-MIBI scintigraphy in imaging parathyroid gland lesions in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). In this review, we attempted to present a clear view of the most reliable or precise technique for detecting parathyroid gland (PG) pathology in PHPT. Our study relied on secondary data based on the review of the extant literature on PHPT imaging. The research retrieved articles from the scholarly databases Google Scholar, Web of Science, and PUBMED/MEDLINE that examine the efficiency of CUS, CEUS, and 99mTc-MIBI scintigraphy in imaging PGs in PHPT patients. The study retrieved secondary data from past research identified using keyword and medical subject heading terms like "Ultrasound," "Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound," "Sonography in parathyroid," "Primary hyperthyroidism," "Scintigraphy," and "Contrast-enhanced ultrasound in parathyroid disease." This study only relied on original contribution papers presented in English and published between 2011 and 2021. We found that CEUS has a comparable sensitivity to 99mTc-MIBI scintigraphy so that it can be used in patients who have a contraindication to scintigraphy or in a hospital without nuclear medicine facility. CEUS is able to detect very small size adenomas, whereas the detection using scintigraphy depends on the size of the diseased glands and the cytology.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Breast Cancer Screening and Diagnosis
Authors: Alonazi Batil
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this article was to evaluate the diagnostic and screening effectiveness of breast MRI (BMRI) protocols for detecting breast cancer. The current review was based on prior research published in English databases such as PubMed and ScienceDirect in scientific articles published between 2010 and 2020 with the keywords "breast cancer MRI," "diagnostic," "dense breast," "risk factors," and "imaging." BMRI is the most sensitive imaging modality for detecting breast cancer. Annual BMRI is recommended for screening women who are at high risk for breast cancer in addition to mammography. Abbreviated MRI, with shorter image acquisition and interpretation times, increases the availability of breast MRI and reduces the costs. Unenhanced MRI parameters such as DWI are under investigation to be added to abbreviated MRI protocols. It seems feasible to offer a cost‐effective screening breast DCE‐MRI to a broader population.
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in PCOS Patients
Authors: Igumnov Ilia , Kurashova Nadezhda , Belenkaya Liliya , Vilson Natalia , Suturina Larisa
Published: March 2022

The purpose of the review was to systematize the available data on the epidemiology and diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The information search was conducted using Internet resources (PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, E-Library) and literature sources for the years 2000-2020. The modern studies indicate that the prevalence of metabolic disorders varies in groups of women with different PCOS phenotypes. Numerous risk factors in PCOS lead to a significant increase in risk for cardiovascular diseases. Patients with PCOS diagnosed according to AE-PCOS Society criteria have the most severe metabolic features and risk of cardiovascular disease. Hyperandrogenism in PCOS is closely related to the aggravation of abdominal obesity, and together with insulin resistance forms the metabolic core for the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Working conditions of the metal fillers workplaces
Authors: Lazarenkov A. M.
Published: March 2022

The working conditions of metal fillers, production factors, determining them are considered. The results of the parameters study of metal fillers’ working conditions compared to the standard values are given.
Gating systems in the casting grinding balls technology
Authors: Volkov D. A. , Volkov A. D. , Efimenko A. V.
Published: March 2022

The article presents a number of experimental and research works on the development of parameters of the casting technology of grinding balls by casting in a lined coquille (chill mould) with a vertical connector. The influence of a multi-level gating system on the efficiency of filling the mold cavity of lined coquilles with melt, on the quality of crystallization of large grinding balls, as well as on increasing the output of suitable casting was revealed. The influence of the thickness of the facing layer on the crystallization of large grinding balls is studied. The effect of modifiers containing barium, magnesium and cerium on the physical and mechanical characteristics of grinding balls and separately cast samples is investigated. Technology has been developed to eliminate contraction cavity in cast grinding balls by enhancing direct crystallization by partially replacing the facing layer with a heat-resistant water coating. The equipment for large-lot production of high-quality large grinding balls developed by OJSC “BELNIILIT” and competitive to world analogs is proposed.
Laser treatment impact on the fabric 07C11-KV surface and its coating with zirconium
Authors: Anisovich A. G. , Akula I. P. , Laskovnev A. P. , Zhuravleva V. I. , Markevich M. I. , Chekan N. M.
Published: March 2022

The results of laser radiation interaction with woven fabrics and coatings on them can be used as a basis for new technological processes. The morphology of the surface of a pure mixed fabric 07C11-KV (Mogotex) is studied and this fabric with a zirconium coating after laser exposure in the dual pulse mode. The modes under which tissue destruction occurs as a result of melting of the material under the action of a concentrated stream of laser radiation are established. It is shown that laser exposure in the twopulse mode in the energy range from 10 to 20J leads to complete material destruction with fabric edges melting.
Reports from the frontline: health workers describe COVID-19 risks and fears in five cities in Brazil
Authors: Kendall Carl , Ellery Ana Ecilda Lima , Carneiro Nivaldo , Santana Rosane Silva , Cruz Luciane Nascimento , Cohen Mírian , Leal Marto , Lima Luana Nepmuceno Gondim Costa , Veras Maria Amélia de Sousa Mascena , Albuquerque Maria de Fátima Pessoa Militão , Lima Karla Valéria Batista , Martelli Celina Maria Turchi , Kerr Ligia Regina Franco Sansigolo
Published: March 2022

Background: Health providers are under unprecedented pressures to perform in the COVID-19 health crisis and under unprecedented risks. We initiated a large survey of health professionals in five large metropolitan areas in Brazil to document the needs of health professionals. To initiate that study, we conducted formative research. Methods: We conducted 77 rapid ethnographic assessment interviews on-line in a convenience sample of physicians, nurses, nurse technicians, and physiotherapists in Belem, Fortaleza, Porto Alegre, Recife and São Paulo, Brazil. Results: Responses are organized into three themes: the lack of preparation for the pandemic and effects on staffing and training; the overlap of personal, family, and professional risk and consequences; and inadequately addressed anxiety and suffering among health staff. Conclusions: Our respondents were unprepared for the epidemic, especially the institutional sequelae and psychological cost. These consequences were exacerbated by the ongoing failure of political and health leadership that is undercutting the Brazilian health system.
Phenology Of Grassland Plants Responds To Urbanization
Authors: Christmann Tina , Kowarik Ingo , Bernard-Verdier Maud , Buchholz Sascha , Hiller Anne , Seitz Birgit , Lippe Moritz von der
Published: March 2022

Understanding phenological responses of plants to changing temperatures is important because of multiple associated ecological consequences. Cities with their urban heat island can be used as laboratories to study phenological adaptation to climate change. However, previous phenology studies focused on trees and did not disentangle the role of micro-climate and urban structures.We studied reproductive phenology of dry grassland species in response to micro-climate and urbanization in Berlin, Germany. Phenological stages were recorded weekly at the individual plant level for five native grassland species across 30 dry grassland sites along an urbanization and temperature gradient. We estimated 50% onset probabilities for flowering and seed maturation of populations, and analysed variation in onset dates using regression models.Early flowering species significantly advanced flowering phenology with increasing mean air temperature but were little influenced by urbanization. By contrast, late-flowering species showed significant phenological responses to both air temperature and urbanization, possibly because micro-climate was most affected by urbanization in late summer. Surprisingly, not all grassland species showed an advanced phenology with increasing intensity of urbanization.This contradicts observed patterns for urban trees, indicating that phenological shifts in urban areas cannot be generalized from the observation of one growth form or taxonomic group. Growth form appears as a possible determinant of phenological responses. Results suggest that the phenology of dry grassland species may directly respond to the urban heat island, albeit with variable direction and magnitude. This has implications for ecosystem services, shifted allergy seasons, changes of biogeochemical cycles and potential ecological mismatches.
Novel insecticides for the management of shoot fly, Atherigona approximata Malloch (Diptera: Muscidae): An emerging insect pest of wheat in India
Authors: Jambagi Suresh R. , Kambrekar D. N , Mallapur C. P. , Naik V. Rudra
Published: March 2022

Shoot flies (Atherigona spp.) are the members of muscidae family which have got economic importance as pest of several crops of Gramineae family mostly cereals and millets. One of the most effective management strategies for controlling shoot fly is the use of novel insecticides either as seed dressers, soil applicators or as foliar treatment. Under the field condition, seed treatment with thiamethoxam 30 FS @ 5 ml/kg seed followed by a spray of cypermethrin 10 EC @ 0.5 ml/l has recorded least shoot fly oviposition (0.84 and 0.94 eggs/plant), dead heart (8.90% and 9.96%), more per cent productive tillers (79.68% and 79.50%), grain yield (32.22 and 31.27 q/ha) and BC ratio (2.05 and 1.99) as compared to the rest of the combinations during the investigation in rabi, 2019-20 and 2020-21, respectively. Under the changing climate where, the minor insect pests attaining major pest status, the present investigation would help the policy makers to reduce the losses caused by shoot fly infestation significantly by using the above combination and can be integrated in future IPM modules.
Extramedullary Hematopoiesis: A Case Report
Authors: Xiong Yu , Sun Hui , Zeng Gan Gan , Liu Jun
Published: March 2022

Extramedullary hematopoiesis is a disease of the blood system that can occur anywhere in the body.The liver and spleen are the most common sites. However, mediastinum, mammary gland and central nervous system are rarely reported. We report a case of posterior mediastinal mass found on physical examination.We performed video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery to differentiate neurogenic masses from mediastinal ones and postoperative pathological results were consistent with extramedullary hematopoiesis.Such extramedullary hematopoiesis without chronic anemia is rare and its clinical features have not been reported.
Exceptional Catalytic Activity of Oxygen Evolution Reaction via Two-Dimensional Graphene Multilayer Confined Metal-Organic Frameworks
Authors: Lyu Siliu , Guo Chenxi , Wang Jianing , Li Zhongjian , Yang Bin , Lei Lecheng , Wang Liping , Xiao Jianping , Zhang Tao , Hou Yang
Published: March 2022

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a key role in many renewable energy technologies such as water splitting and metal-air batteries. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are appealing to design efficient OER electrocatalysts, however, their intrinsic poor conductivity strongly hinders the activity. Here, we show a strategy to boost the OER activity of poor-conductive MOFs by confining them between graphene multilayers. The resultant NiFe-MOF/G gives a record-low overpotential of 106 mV to reach 10 mA cm-2 and retains the activity over 150 h, which is in significant contrast to 399 mV of the pristine NiFe-MOF. We use X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and computations to demonstrate that the nanoconfinement from graphene multilayers not only forms highly reactive NiO6-FeO5 distorted octahedral species in MOF structure but also lowers limiting potential for water oxidation reaction. We also demonstrate that the strategy is applicable to other MOFs of different structures to largely enhance their electrocatalytic activities.
An Approach to Determine All Joint Motions of Parallel Robot and Its Software Development
Authors: Wang Liang , Huo Xinming , Wang Panfeng , Qi Yang , Wang Jun , Li Qi
Published: March 2022

Inverse kinematics for all joint motions of parallel robot is the foundation for stiffness or dynamic analysis, and the prerequisite for motion monitoring during operation in case of collision or damage. The software equipped with a generalized inverse kinematic method is beneficial for the efficient motion solving of different parallel robots, and especially convenient for kinematic control development. Current inverse kinematic methods are either case-by-case studies or not amicable for programming. To tackle these problems, this paper proposes a generalized method to determine all the joint motions of parallel robot based on finite screw theory, including mechanism initialization, kinematic modeling and kinematic variable solving. Two parallel robots are taken as examples to verify the effectiveness and accuracy of the approach. After that, the method is applied for digital programming on the basis of computer technology, and a software is developed for the automatic inverse kinematic analysis. The advantages of this method lie in: the kinematic equation could be formulated in a general and concise manner independence of experience and observation; all the joint variables under given target pose are solved at the same time; it enables easy programming and realizes the automation of inverse kinematic analysis.
Modeling Study of Herringbone Gear Gap Space Borrow and Grinding Wheel Max Diameter Determination
Authors: Zhao Zemin , Zhao Xingfu , Sun Hao , Dong Chao , Wang Chunlei , Wang Shancheng , Zhang Hongyan
Published: March 2022

In aviation, the machine quality and accuracy of herringbone gear are strictly required, and its realization depends on the grinding process. There is an urgent need for further expansion of grinding wheel diameter. This paper proposed a gear gap space borrow grinding method and determined the analyzing relation between grinding wheel diameter and herringbone gear design parameters. Based on certain assumptions and idealized processing methods, the method of the gear undercut width design and the wheel maximum diameter determination are completed by geometry modeling combining the analytical and simulation method. After solid contact simulation verification, several important phenomena have been discussed, then valuable laws and conclusions have been obtained.
Renewable Energy, Financial Development and Real Per Capita GDP Growth in African Countries1
Authors: Konyeaso Amarachi , Eregha Perekunah Bright , Vo Xuan Vinh
Published: March 2022

This study examines the interrelation among renewable energy production, financial development and economic growth in 32 selected African countries for the period of 1996 to 2018. These countries are categorized on the basis of oil rich and non-oil rich as well as income levels. The study employs Pooled Mean Group, Augmented Mean Group and Dynamic OLS and key findings are established. The study reveals a positive and significant renewable energy-economic growth relationship in all the different groups. Financial development is found to improve economic performance in all categories except in non-oil rich African countries. This study thus recommends the restructuring of the energy pricing system, provision of long-term finance, adoption of risk mitigation instruments, improved institutional framework for private participation in renewable energy infrastructural development for growth sustainability in Africa.
A dielectric Kinoform zone plate with 15 nm resolution and high efficiency for soft X-ray optics
Authors: Tong Xujie , Chen Yifang , Mu Chengyang , Chen Qiucheng , Zhang Xiangzhi , Zeng Guang , Li Yu-Chun , Xu Zijian , Zhao Jun , Zhen Xiangjun , Mao Chengwen , Lu Hongliang , Tai Renzhong
Published: March 2022

X-ray microscope as an important nanoprobing tool is expected to play a powerful role in nano-inspections of materials. Despite the fast advances of high resolution focusing/imaging reported, the diffraction efficiency of existing binary zone plates as the lenses in the microscope is mostly around 5% in practice and rapidly goes down to 1-2% when the resolution approaches 10 nm, failing its applications in advanced scientific research. Zone plates with Kinoform profile are supposed to be high efficient, little progress for achieving both high resolution and high efficiency has been reported. The conflict between the resolution and the efficiency in X ray optics has become a long-lasting bottleneck in the further development of X-ray microscope. Based on our earlier success in developing high efficiency Kinoform zone plates by greyscale electron beam lithography, we proposed, in this work, a new zone plate structure by combing a dielectric Kinoform zone plate with an atomic layer deposited HfO2 zone plate to achieve high resolution focusing/imaging with high efficiency. Beam propagation method was applied in designing and optimizing Kinoform shapes of the zones, greyscale and/or binary electron beam lithography was carried out for generating both 3D Kinoform as well as rectangular zones with aspect ratio of 23/1 in dielectric resist, and finally high-quality atomic layer deposition of HfO2 was conducted to form the 15-nm wide outermost zone. Optical characterizations by an in-house developed soft X ray microscope demonstrated 15-nm resolution focusing/imaging with over 7% efficiency, which is the highest with such a resolution as far as our awareness. The origin of such an improvement behind the proposed novel lenses is interpreted by our BMP calculation results and the comparisons with existing performances by other reports in literature was discussed.
Effect of Mouthwashes on the Force Decay of Orthodontic Elastomeric Chains: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Castelló Carolina Andrés , Zamora-Martínez Natalia , Paredes-Gallardo Vanessa , Tarazona-Álvarez Beatriz
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Orthodontic elastomeric chains are used in many orthodontic treatments. However, their activation or the action of external factors such as the daily use of mouthwashes can contribute to the increase of force decay causing a loss of effectiveness. The objective of this systematic review and a meta-analysis was to analyse the influence of the most widely used mouthwashes and their mainly components on the force decay of the orthodontic elastomeric chains.Material and Methods: A systematic search of the literature was performed in the electronic databases of PubMed, Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), Scopus, EMBASE and Web of Science, as well as grey literature (Opengrey). No limit was placed on publication year and research was done up to June 2021. Controlled clinical trials, randomized clinical trials (RCTs), cohort studies, case–control studies, cross-sectional studies, multicentre studies, and in vitro studies were there was an exposure of orthodontic elastomeric chains to certain mouthwashes and their main components were included. For the quantitative analysis, studies were analysed with a mixed-effect (random effect) meta-regresion model, with beta coefficients and R2 values. I2 index and Q and Egger tests were used to find heterogeneity among studies. Results: 14 articles met the inclusion criteria and were selected for qualitative analysis. The same 14 articles were selected for the quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis). The results of the meta-analysis showed that, in general, all the mouthwashes were associated with a greater force decay than the control agents at 24 hours, at 7, 14, 21 and at 28 days. When comparing the different mouthwashes, the results showed that at 7 days (p=0.005) significant differences were found in the force decay among them. Mouthwashes containing alcohol had a significantly higher percentage of degradation than those containing chlorhexidine 0.2%, sodium fluoride (NaF) or Persica. On the contrary, in the measurements performed at 24 hours (p=0.200), 14 days (p=0.076), 21 days (p=0.120) and 28 days (p=0.778) no differences in the strength among the different mouthwashes were found.Conclusion: In general, mouthwashes tend to increase the speed of force decay and have a negative impact in the physical properties of orthodontic elastomeric chains, resulting in a loss of effectiveness. For mouthwashes such as Listerine® and those containing alcohol this difference can be higher than for mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine, NaF or bleaching agents.
Clinical value of YKL-40 in patients with polymyositis/dermatomyositis: a cross-sectional study and a systematic review
Authors: Cui Beibei , Chen Yuehong , Luo Fengming , Lin Sang , Liu Huan , Huang Yupeng , Zhou Yueyuan , Tian Yunru , Yin Geng , Xie Qibing
Published: March 2022

Introduction: We performed a cross-sectional study to investigate the clinical usefulness of YKL-40 in patients with dermatomyositis (DM) and conducted a systematic review to summarize the clinical value of YKL-40 in patients with polymyositis (PM)/DM.Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study and a systematic review were performed to study the clinical value of YKL-40 in patients with PM/DM. In the cross-sectional study, a total of 65 DM patients with mean age 47.71 years and 30 healthy controls with mean age 47.73 years were included. Serum YKL-40 level was detected using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and its association with clinical and laboratory parameters was analyzed by Spearman correlation analysis. The diagnostic value of serum YKL-40 in patients with DM was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. In the systematic review, electronic databases of OVID Embase, OVID Medline, and web of science were searched to collect studies that reported clinical use of YKL-40 in patients with PM/DM. Results: In the cross-sectional study, serum YKL-40 level was higher in patients with DM than in healthy controls (median [interquartile range]: 84.09 [52.72–176.4] ng/mL vs 27.37 [12.30–53.58] ng/mL, p<0.0001). Serum levels of YKL-40 were associated with the course of DM (r=-0.469, p<0.001), CRP (r=0.303, p=0.043), CK (r=0.263, p=0.037), and global disease activity (r=0.628, p<0.001). The area under the ROC curve was 0.835 (95% confidence interval 0.751–0.920). In the systematic review, a total of 4 studies were included with moderate to high quality. Serum level of YKL-40 has the possibility for diagnosing PM/DM, identifying PM/DM patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) or rapid progress ILD, and predicting death.Conclusion: Serum YKL-40 level is a possible useful biomarker for PM/DM diagnosis and may be used to predict prognosis.
Toll interacting protein (TOLLIP) increases in fibrotic lung tissue of connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease and is associated with clinical outcome
Authors: Cui Beibei , Li Shuang , Lyu Xiafei , Cai Shenyang , Zou Yan , Jiang Lili
Published: March 2022

Objective
There is a lack of Toll interacting protein (TOLLIP) histological data in the lung tissue of patients with connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD). We aim to demonstrate the features of TOLLIP expression in the lung tissue of CTD-ILD patients and to associate TOLLIP expression with polymorphisms and clinical characteristics.
Methods
Sixteen patients diagnosed with CTD-ILD who underwent lung transbronchial cryobiopsy (TBCB) at our institution between 2015 and 2021 were recruited. TOLLIP was localized in lung TBCB specimens. Rs3750920 was genotyped. Clinical characteristics, CT and pathological scores, and follow-up data were recorded.
Results
TOLLIP expressed in both alveolar and bronchiolar epithelial cells in patients with CTD-ILD. TOLLIP expression significantly increased in fibrotic areas. The distribution of rs3750920 was C/C: 43.7%, C/T:56.3%, T/T: 0%. There was no significant difference in clinical characteristics between C/C and C/T groups. The average follow-up time was 39.61 ± 16.78 months. During the follow-up, the change in G-score of chest thin-section CT (HRCT) was moderately negatively correlated with TOLLIP expression level in alveolar epithelial cells (r=-0.596, P = 0.024) and strongly negatively correlated with TOLLIP expression level in bronchiolar epithelial cells (r=-0.739, P = 0.004).
Conclusions
TOLLIP might play an important role in the regulation of pulmonary fibrosis in CTD-ILD. Patients with higher TOLLIP expression show greater improvement of ground glass opacity on HRCT, which implies TOLLIP expression is associated with prognosis. Further research is warranted to reveal the pathophysiologic mechanisms of TOLLIP in CTD, and identify potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate these diseases.
Cervical Cancer Knowledge and Facilitators and Barriers to Screening Among Women in Two Rural Communities in Guatemala: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bevilacqua Kristin G. , Gottschlich Anna , Murchland Audrey R. , Alvarez Christian S. , Rivera-Andrade Alvaro , Meza Rafael
Published: March 2022

Background Approximately 80% of deaths due to cervical cancer occur in the developing world. In Guatemala, limited access to effective screening and treatment has resulted in an alarmingly high cervical cancer incidence and mortality rates. Despite access to free-of-cost screening women continue to face significant barriers in obtaining screening for cervical cancer. Methods In-depth interviews (N=21) were conducted among women in two rural communities in Guatemala. Qualitative IDIs followed semi-structured guide to explore knowledge related to cervical cancer and barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening. Results Cervical cancer knowledge was variable across sites and across women. Women reported barriers to screening including ancillary costs, control by male partners, poor provider communication and systems-level resource constraints. Facilitators to screening included a desire to know one’s own health status, conversations with other women including community health workers and extra-governmental health fairs. Conclusions Findings speak to the many challenges women face in obtaining screening for cervical cancer in their communities as well as existing facilitators. Future interventions must focus on improving cervical cancer-related knowledge as well as mitigating barriers and leveraging facilitators to promote screening.
Improvement in Bladder Function in Children With Functional Constipation After a Bowel Management Program
Authors: Knaus Maria E. , Ahmad Hira , Bourgeois Tran , Dajusta Daniel G. , Wood Richard J. , Fuchs Molly E.
Published: March 2022

Purpose We sought to determine if children with functional constipation (FC) would have an improvement in bladder function with treatment of constipation with a bowel management program (BMP). Methods A single-institution review was performed in children aged 3-18 with FC who underwent a BMP from 2014-2020. Clinical characteristics, bowel management details, and the Vancouver Symptom Score for Dysfunctional Elimination Syndrome (VSS), Baylor Continence Scale (BCS), and Cleveland Clinic Constipation Score (CCCS) were collected. Data were analyzed using linear mixed effect modeling with random intercept.Results 241 patients were included with a median age of 9 years. Most were White (81%) and 47% were female. Univariate tests showed improvement in VSS (-3.6, P<0.0001), BCS (-11.96, P<0.0001), and CCCS (-1.9, P<0.0001) among patients having undergone one BMP. Improvement was noted in VSS and CCCS among those with more than one BMP (VSS: -1.66, P=0.023; CCCS: -2.69, P<0.0001). Multivariate tests indicated undergoing a BMP does result in significant improvement in VSS, BCS, and CCCS (P<0.0001).Conclusions There is significant improvement in bladder function in children with FC who undergo a BMP. For patients with bowel and bladder dysfunction and FC, a BMP is a reasonable treatment strategy for lower urinary tract symptoms.
Noninvasive stimulation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex increases rationality of human decision-making
Authors: Kroker Thomas , Wyczesany Miroslaw , Rehbein Maimu , Roesmann Kati , Wessing Ida , Junghoefer Markus
Published: March 2022

The framing-effect is a bias that affects decision-making depending on whether the available options are presented with positive or negative connotations. Even when the outcome of two choices is equivalent, people have a strong tendency to avoid the negatively framed option because losses are perceived about twice as salient as gains of the same amount (i.e. loss-aversion). The ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) is crucial for rational decision-making, and dysfunctions in this region have been linked to cognitive biases, impulsive behavior and gambling addiction. Using a financial decision-making task in combination with magnetoencephalographic neuroimaging, we show that excitatory compared to inhibitory non-invasive transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the vmPFC reduces framing-effects while improving the assessment of loss-probabilities, ultimately leading to increased overall gains. Behavioral and neural data consistently suggest that this improvement in rational decision-making is predominately a consequence of reduced loss-aversion. These findings recommend further research towards clinical applications of vmPFC-tDCS in addictive disorders.
Genome Sequence of Pineapple Secovirus B, a Second Sadwavirus Reported Infecting Ananas Comosus
Authors: Larrea-Sarmiento Adriana , Geering Andrew D.W. , Olmedo-Velarde Alejandro , Wang Xupeng , Borth Wayne , Matsumoto Tracie K , Suzuki Jon Y , Wall Marisa M. , Melzer Michael J , Moyle Richard , Sharman Murray , Hu John , Thomas John E.
Published: March 2022

The complete genome sequence of a member of a novel species of Sadwavirus (family Secoviridae) infecting pineapple on the island of Oahu, Hawaii was determined by high throughput sequencing. The genome comprised two RNA molecules of 5,956 nt and 3,808 nt in length, excluding the poly-A tails at the 3’ end and each encoding a single large polyprotein. The RNA-1 polyprotein contained five conserved domains, all associated with replication, while the RNA-2 polyprotein is cleaved into the movement protein and coat protein. Analysis of the Pro-Pol region revealed less than 75% amino acid identity with pineapple secovirus A, chocolate lily virus A, and Dioscorea mosaic-associated virus, all members and candidate members of the proposed subgenus Cholivirus. Two specific primer sets derived from HTS data were used in RT-PCR assays, confirming the presence of this new virus infecting pineapple. The name “pineapple secovirus B” is proposed for this putative new virus.
Patterns of premenstrual syndrome in collegiate women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Morino Saori , Hirata Hinako , Egawa Miho , Matsumoto Daisuke , Yokota Isao , Aoyama Tomoki
Published: March 2022

Background
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has a wide variety of symptoms. The classification of these symptoms into several patterns is useful for more effective tailor-made treatment. Therefore, our study aimed to examine the patterns of PMS by analyzing multiple factors to identify the characteristics of each pattern.
Methods
This is a cross-sectional study. A total of 165 women (18.9 ± 1.0 years) was investigated by using of questionnaire about PMS, nutrition, physical activity, and other lifestyle traits. Then, the factor analysis was performed to classify the premenstrual symptoms, that is, the pattern of PMS. Additionally, logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the characteristics of each pattern, adjusted for age, body mass index, sleep duration, and caffeine intake.
Results
As the result, PMS was classified into three patterns. The type related to psychological symptoms such as depression, physiological symptoms such as abdominal pain, and intermingled type were labeled as affected, somatic, and mixed types, respectively. From the result of logistic regression analysis, self-rating depression scale scoring was marginally associated with affective type (p = 0.067), physical activity was significantly associated with the mixed type (p = 0.049), and physical activity (OR = 0.006) and some nutrients (OR = 0.015–0.041) were significantly associated with the somatic type.
Conclusions
To understand of PMS and management of these complicated symptoms has been difficult. From the results of this study, the complicated symptoms were categorized into simpler patterns. Our findings may contribute to the understanding and possible management adjusted for each categorized case of PMS.