bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expert-level detection of M-proteins in serum protein electrophoresis using machine learning
Authors: Elfert Eike , Kaminski Wolfgang E. , Matek Christian , Hoermann Gregor , Axelsen Eyvind W. , Marr Carsten , Piehler Armin P.
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Serum protein electrophoresis (SPE) in combination with immunotyping (IMT) is the diagnostic standard for detecting monoclonal proteins (M-proteins). However, interpretation of SPE and IMT is weakly standardized, time consuming and investigator dependent. Here, we present five machine learning (ML) approaches for automated detection of M-proteins on SPE on an unprecedented large and well-curated data set and compare the performance with that of laboratory experts.

Methods

SPE and IMT were performed in serum samples from 69,722 individuals from Norway. IMT results were used to label the samples as M-protein present (positive, n=4,273) or absent (negative n=65,449). Four feature-based ML algorithms and one convolutional neural network (CNN) were trained on 68,722 randomly selected SPE patterns to detect M-proteins. Algorithm performance was compared to that of an expert group of clinical pathologists and laboratory technicians (n=10) on a test set of 1,000 samples.

Results

The random forest classifier showed the best performance (F1-Score 93.2 %, accuracy 99.1 %, sensitivity 89.9 %, specificity 99.8 %, positive predictive value 96.9 %, negative predictive value 99.3 %) and outperformed the experts (F1-Score 61.2 ± 16.0 %, accuracy 89.2 ± 10.2 %, sensitivity 94.3 ± 2.8 %, specificity 88.9 ± 10.9 %, positive predictive value 47.3 ± 16.2 %, negative predictive value 99.5 ± 0.2 %) on the test set. Interestingly the performance of the RFC saturated, the CNN performance increased steadily within our training set (n=68,722).

Conclusions

Feature-based ML systems are capable of automated detection of M-proteins on SPE beyond expert-level and show potential for use in the clinical laboratory.
On the development of tense-aspect markers in Lingala youth language: a microvariationist look at language change in the verb phrase
Authors: Nassenstein Nico
Published: June 2024

This paper examines language change in two Lingala youth languages from the DR Congo, Lingala ya Bayankee (sometimes referred to as Yanké) and Langila, focusing on processes of grammaticalization and replication. Speakers of Lingala ya Bayankee use a grammaticalized prefix ké- for the near/immediate future tense, derived from the verb kokende ‘to go’ and from a manipulated form of the same verb, namely the prefix dyé- from kodyé (with the same meaning). The emergence and development of this tense marker is traced and compared with the strategies used by Langila speakers. Moreover, the microvariationist lens through which changes in the tense-aspect system of Lingala’s youth registers are examined in this paper looks at different formation patterns of progressive aspect, with two dominant construction types in Lingala ya Bayankee; these are also compared to the strategies used by Langila speakers. While linguistic manipulations have long been the focus of sociolinguistic approaches to the study of adolescent language use, fine-grained differences in tense and aspect marking have received little attention. Here, this paper aims to take a first step, based on rich empirical data collected during various research stays in the urban environment of Kinshasa (DR Congo).
The economics of Japanese: investigating the demand for Japanese language skills in the Pearl River Delta labor market
Authors: Cai Chao , Huang Jinying
Published: June 2024

Due to the current status of English as a lingua franca in numerous domains, increasing attention has been directed toward the economic potential of English. However, research on languages other than English from an economic perspective remains limited. This study aims to address this gap by examining the labor market demand for Japanese language skills in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region of China. Drawing on data from the job advertisements published on two prominent job websites in mainland China in 2019 and 2022, this study suggests an increasing overall demand for Japanese language skills, as well as a request for higher proficiency in Japanese in the PRD labor market between 2019 and 2022, despite variations observed across different economic sectors. Furthermore, the results also indicate a growing tendency to interweave Japanese and global English in the PRD labor market. The findings provide implications for language instructors, job applicants, and educational institutions.
Spirituelle Krisen und Geistliche Trockenheit: Die Perspektive von Johannes vom Kreuz und Mutter Teresa von Kalkutta
Authors: Weismayer Josef
Published: June 2024

Geistliche Trockenheit gehört zu den Erfahrungen, die Heilige erlebt haben. Das soll an zwei Persönlichkeiten aufgezeigt werden, die immer noch als Vorbild gelten: Johannes vom Kreuz und Mutter Teresa. Ihre Lebenserfahrungen zeigen, dass der Grund dieser Erfahrungen, nicht im geringer werdenden Eifer liegt. Da das intensive Streben ja nicht nur Leben mit dem unbegreiflichen Gott darstellt, sondern auch Leben „in Christus“ darstellt, finden sich bei beiden Heiligen auch Facetten von Dunkelheit und Finsternis als Dimensionen des Lebens „in Christus“. In der psychischen Nacht wird die Gemeinschaft mit dem erlösenden Leiden Jesu Christi sichtbar, gleichsam mit-erlitten. Aber zugleich ereignet sich in dieser dunklen Zeit auch die Erfahrung der Gottferne und des menschlichen Leids und Ohnmacht. Dieses Wissen ist auch für die Prozesse des Spiritual Care bedeutsam, aber noch zu wenig beleuchtet worden. Dennoch bliebe sie in der Treue im Gebet und in der Sorge für die Notleidenden, ganz im Sinne des Mit-Leidens und tätigen Mit-Lieben mit Christus.
Muḳaddimetü’l-Cezerî Şerh Geleneğinde Hüseyin b. Ali Amâsî’nin ‘Dürr-i Meknûn’ Adlı Eseri
Authors: Çakıroğlu Selim
Published: June 2024

Bu araştırmada tecvid ilmi literatüründe önemli bir yere sahip olan Muḳaddimetü’l-Cezerî’nin manzum tercüme ve şerhi olan Dürr-i Meknûn adlı eser, tecvid ilmi açısından incelenecektir. Makalede konu üç ana bölümde ele alınacaktır. Burada öncelikle tecvid ilminin teşekkülü ve İbnü’l-Cezerî’ye kadar olan süreçte ortaya çıkan literatür ile ilgili bilgilere özet olarak temas edilecektir. Sonrasında Muḳaddimetü’l-Cezerî etrafında oluşan mensur ve manzum literatüre değinilecek, özellikle Osmanlıda oluşan tercüme ve şerh geleneği çerçevesinde telif edilen eserlere dikkat çekilecektir. Böylece tecvid ilmi bağlamında Muḳaddimetü’l-Cezeri etrafında oluşan telif geleneğinin izi sürülecek ve geleneğin tecvid ilmine yaptığı katkı belirginleştirilecektir. Son olarak Muḳaddimetü’l-Cezerî’nin manzum tercüme ve şerhi olan Dürr-i Meknûn adlı eser edebî yönleri ve tecvid ilmi açısından incelenecektir. Eser üzerine yüksek lisans düzeyinde Türk dili ve edebiyatı kapsamında yapılmış çalışmalar olmakla birlikte, eser ve müellifi kıraat ve tecvid ilmi açısından bütüncül bir şekilde ele alınmamış, eserin tecvid ilmi bağlamında değerlendirmesi yapılmamıştır. Bu araştırma ile 17. yüzyılda Osmanlıda imamlık vazifesinin yanı sıra tecvid ve kıraata dair eserler etmiş telif etmiş, Galata Sarayı muallimliği yapmış olan Hüseyin b. Ali Amâsî ve Dürr-i Meknûn adlı eseri bağlamında Osmanlı ilim geleneğinde kıraat ve tecvid ilmine yönelik faaliyetler daha bir görünür hale gelecektir.
Evaluating Renal Benefits of Rivaroxaban Versus Vitamin K Antagonists in Atrial Fibrillation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Real-world Evidence
Authors: Dinh Phong Phan , Ho Tri Huynh Quang , Pham Hung Manh , Nguyen Hai Hoang , Ton Minh That , Tran Giang Song , Vu Nga Quynh , Pham Hung Nhu , Luong Son Cao , Hoang Sy Van
Published: June 2024

Background: AF is a global health concern, with systemic complications including renal dysfunction. This systematic review and meta-analysis compares the effects of rivaroxaban, a Factor Xa inhibitor, and vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) on renal outcomes in AF patients. Methods: The study protocol is registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42023462756). We systematically searched the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library databases from 1 January 2017 to 30 June 2023 for real-world studies comparing the effects of rivaroxaban and VKAs on renal outcomes in AF patients, including acute kidney injury, a ≥30% decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate, doubling of serum creatinine and worsening renal function. Subgroup analyses targeted diabetes, pre-existing kidney disease, the elderly (age ≥65 years) and Asian populations. The risk of bias was assessed used the Robins-I tool. HRs and 95% CIs were synthesised through a random-effects model. Two sensitivity analyses were performed, using a fixed-effects model and excluding conference abstracts. Results: We identified 1,666 records. After screening, 14 studies comparing rivaroxaban and VKAs were included. Rivaroxaban exhibited superiority over VKAs in preventing: acute kidney injury (HR 0.68; 95% CI [0.61–0.77]; p<0.00001); a ≥30% decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate (HR 0.71; 95% CI [0.60–0.84]; p<0.0001); doubling of serum creatinine (HR 0.50; 95% CI [0.36–0.70]; p<0.0001); and worsening renal function (HR 0.56; 95% CI [0.45–0.69]; p<0.00001). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses consistently confirmed rivaroxaban’s favourable effects on renal outcomes in diabetes, pre-existing kidney disease, the elderly and Asian populations. Conclusion: Our findings support the preference of rivaroxaban over VKAs for renal outcomes in AF. The findings endorse rivaroxaban as the preferred anticoagulant to mitigate renal complications, offering clinicians valuable insights for tailored strategies.
Molecular Mechanisms of the Failing Heart: A Fatal Regression?
Authors: Katoh Manami , Komuro Jin , Inoue Shunsuke , Nakayama Yukiteru , Komuro Issei
Published: June 2024

Heart failure (HF) is one of the most common causes of death, and the number of HF patients is increasing worldwide due to population ageing. The pathogenesis of HF has been extensively studied by many researchers with a focus on cardiomyocytes, but its complex pathophysiology has yet to be elucidated. Non-cardiomyocytes account for >70% of the cells that comprise the heart, and there is close communication between non-cardiomyocytes and cardiomyocytes, suggesting that non-cardiomyocytes might play a pivotal role in the development of HF. Neurohumoral factors, such as the autonomic nerves and hormones, regulate the heart’s function. Conversely, the heart affects many other organs through blood perfusion, underscoring the importance of interorgan communication. This review discusses the role of non-cardiomyocytes and interorgan communication between the heart and other organs in the development of HF, a topic that has not been extensively explored.
JORGE HUGO GIRALDO, LAS PUERTAS DE COLOMBIA AL MUNDO DE LA GIMNASIA ARTÍSTICA MASCULINA
Authors: Mancera Londoño Michael
Published: June 2024

El gimnasta Jorge Hugo Giraldo, fue el primer colombiano en representar a Colombia en los Juegos Olímpicos Atenas 2004, Beijing de 2008, Londres 2012 y 12 campeonatos mundiales en el campo de la gimnasia Artística. Luego participó, gano o estuvo en el pódium en los Juegos Suramericanos Medellín 2010, Juegos Centroamericanos Mayagüez 2010, Juegos Panamericanos Guadalajara 2011, Pacific Rim Championship en Everett Estados Unidos 2012 y juegos Panamericanos Toronto 2015, logrando así ser un deportista conocido mundialmente e internacionalizar la gimnasia artística masculina en Colombia. Como creador de la acrobacia Giraldo, ha representado una proeza para el país y es un modelo a seguir para las futuras generaciones de gimnastas masculinos.  Es importante resaltar que este artículo es producto de una entrevista dada por el mismo gimnasta, quien se dio a la tarea de detallar a profundidad y detalle toda su vida y trayectoria deportiva.
ENTRENAMIENTO DE FUERZA BASADO EN LA VELOCIDAD DE EJECUCIÓN PARA LA MEJORA DEL RENDIMIENTO DEL SPRINT Y LA CAPACIDAD DE SALTO VERTICAL EN FUTBOLISTAS DE CATEGORÍA SUB 17 DEL CLUB JAGUARES DE CÓRDOBA
Authors: Burgos Mancilla Feliciano , García Hoyos Armando Antonio
Published: June 2024

La investigación es de enfoque cuantitativo de paradigma positivista. El tipo de la investigación es pre-experiemental, cuyas técnicas de recolección de la información fueron Test Físicos (pre-test y post-test), Programa de Entrenamiento y Matriz de Comparación, los cuales permitieron evaluar los niveles de sprint y salto vertical en futbolistas de categoría sub-17 del club Jaguares de Córdoba, diseñar un programa de entrenamiento de fuerza basado en la velocidad de ejecución y comprar los resultados de la población de estudio. Con lo anterior se buscaba mejorar la capacidad del sprint y salto vertical en futbolistas de categoría sub 17 de club Jaguares de Córdoba a través de un programa de entrenamiento de fuerza basado en velocidad de ejecución. A manera de conclusión, se afirma que diseño del plan de entrenamiento basado en la velocidad de ejecución permitió mejorar la capacidad de sprint y salto vertical gracias a contemplar las condiciones individuales de los deportistas que se detectaron a través de un pre-test, a los ejercicios de sobrecarga que junto a la progresión aumentaron la resistencia de los jugadores, la periodización de los ciclos de entrenamiento, la especificidad de los ejercicios empleados que buscaban puntualmente mejorar las dos capacidades mencionadas y el periodo de recuperación que permitia el descanso de los jugadores y mejorar el desempeño de los mismos.
BENEFICIOS DEL TAI CHI EN PACIENTES CON OSTEOARTRITIS DE RODILLA. REVISIÓN SISTEMÁTICA
Authors: Martínez Pizarro Sandra , Sánchez Lozano Jesús
Published: June 2024

La osteoartritis de rodilla es una condición degenerativa articular muy común asociada a mortalidad temprana. Provoca dolor y rigidez, lo que puede afectar el rendimiento físico y disminuir la calidad de vida. Recientemente se ha sugerido el Tai Chi en estos pacientes. En comparación con el ejercicio tradicional, el Tai Chi es un ejercicio seguro con movimientos lentos que puede facilitar el funcionamiento físico y el bienestar psicológico. El objetivo de este trabajo es realizar una revisión de la literatura para evaluar los beneficios del Tai Chi en pacientes con osteoartritis de rodilla. Se realizó una revisión siguiendo la normativa PRISMA. Se consultaron las bases de datos de PubMed, Cinahl, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, Academic Search Complete, Lilacs, IBECS, CENTRAL, SciELO, y WOS. Del total de bases de datos consultadas, se obtuvieron 128 estudios. Tras eliminar duplicado y aplicar criterios de inclusión quedaron 6 ensayos para formar parte de esta revisión. La muestra fue de 537 pacientes. La frecuencia del Tai Chi fue de dos veces por semana. La duración del tratamiento osciló entre 8 y 24 semanas. El Tai Chi es eficaz en pacientes con osteoartritis de rodilla. Este ejercicio mejora la función física, el control motor, la estabilidad postural, la depresión, la calidad de vida y disminuye la necesidad de medicamentos. También es capaz de mejorar la propiocepción del tobillo y la rodilla ya que mejora la flexión plantar del tobillo, dorsiflexión del tobillo, varo del tobillo y flexión de la rodilla.
INCIDENCIA DE LA TEORÍA DEL MOVIMIENTO DE LE BOULCH SOBRE EL DESARROLLO DE LAS CAPACIDADES COORDINATIVAS EN ESTUDIANTES DE LA BÁSICA PRIMARIA
Authors: Lozano Zapata Rafael Enrique , Luna Manjarres Javit Enrique , Morales Leiva Angie Paola
Published: June 2024

El siguiente trabajo investigativo buscó identificar la perspectiva de los docentes con relación a la teoría del movimiento de Le Boulch sobre el desarrollo de las capacidades coordinativas en escolares de la básica primaria. La perspectiva de cada docente en el ámbito de la Educación Física permitió detallar la relevancia del movimiento sobre el desarrollo de las capacidades coordinativas e impacto en cuanto al desarrollo biopsicosocial de los estudiantes. La metodología de investigación se llevó de acuerdo al paradigma interpretativo, a través de un enfoque de investigación cualitativo, y en cuanto al instrumento de recopilación de la información se empleó una entrevista semiestructurada. Para el respectivo análisis y codificación de la información suministrada, se empleó el software ATLAS ti, el cual facilitó que se obtuviera información valiosa para constatar con otros estudios similares. Como hallazgos finales, la perspectiva de los docentes permite observar la incidencia que tiene el movimiento sobre las capacidades coordinativas, destacando que por medio de la educación psicomotriz en las edades tempranas se promueve el desarrollo integro de los educandos.
Using Constraint Propagation to Bound Linear Programs
Authors: Dlask Tomáš , Werner Tomáš
Published: June 2024

We present an approach to compute bounds on the optimal value of linear programs based on constraint propagation. Given a feasible dual solution, we apply constraint propagation to the complementary slackness conditions and, if propagation succeeds to prove these conditions infeasible, the infeasibility certificate (in the sense of Farkas’ lemma) is reconstructed from the propagation history. This certificate is a dual-improving direction, which allows us to improve the bound. As constraint propagation need not always detect infeasibility of a linear inequality system, the method is not guaranteed to converge to a global solution of the linear program but only to an upper bound, whose tightness depends on the structure of the program and the used propagation method. The approach is suited for large sparse linear programs (such as LP relaxations of combinatorial optimization problems), for which the classical LP algorithms may be infeasible, if only for their super-linear space complexity. The approach can be seen as a generalization of the Virtual Arc Consistency (VAC) algorithm to bound the LP relaxation of the Weighted CSP (WCSP). We newly apply it to the LP relaxation of the Weighted Max-SAT problem, experimentally showing that the obtained bounds are often not far from optima of the relaxation and proving that they are exact for known tractable subclasses of Weighted Max-SAT.
Energy saving model for related processes in steelmaking
Authors: Weishu W. , Shuailong L. , Weihui X. , Chikova O. A. , Yimeng Z.
Published: June 2024

In the development of advanced energy saving technologies in the metallurgical industry, a comprehensive approach to managing energy flows is crucial. This article presents an in-depth analysis of the steelmaking and metallurgical industry in China and Russia, focusing on the evolution and current shortcomings of energy saving methods in metallurgical processes. The authors thoroughly analyze various technological processes, including sintering, coking, pellet production, iron production in blast furnaces, steel production in oxygen converters and electric arc furnaces, as well as steel rolling, identifying significant potential for enhancing energy efficiency and reducing harmful emissions. The main outcome of the research is the  development of structural models of technological processes based on the concept of energy saving “temperature matching, cascade utilization, and global linkage”, covering key stages of steelmaking. These models provide detailed descriptions of the role and interrelation of each process within the complete metallurgical cycle and combine into a comprehensive structural model of steelmaking technological process. The model includes not only specific operations and characteristics of each stage but also explains how these processes interact and depend on each other, forming an integrated and interconnected system of metallurgical production. This model encompasses comprehensive temperature-pressure and production links, providing a theoretical basis for the development of mathematical models of energy saving and the design of corresponding computer applications. The structural model of steelmaking technological process is important for understanding and optimizing the entire process of metallurgical production, contributing to its energy and ecological efficiency.
Calculations of phase composition of austenitic high-nitrogen welding wire and study of a welded joint made from it
Authors: Kostina V. S. , Kostina M. V. , Zinoveev D. V. , Kudryashov A. E.
Published: June 2024

The processability of a material is directly related to the possibility of its production, operation and maintainability. One of the most important indicators of the processability of any metal is weldability. Austenitic steels with a high nitrogen content proved themselves as high-strength, corrosion- and cold-resistant materials, but the issue of their weldability is still not fully understood. The lack of welding filler materials on the market specifically designed for welding high-nitrogen steels is the primary obstacle to solving this problem. Thus, the goal of the work was to develop and obtain a laboratory sample of high-nitrogen welding wire. Based on calculations of nitrogen solubility and the phase composition of the weld metal, the chemical composition of Cr – Mn – Ni – Mo – V, N steel was selected for this wire. A defect-free ingot with 0.57 % N was obtained, and wire with a nitrogen content of 0.57 wt. % was produced using hot plastic deformation and drawing methods. Testing of this wire to obtain a welded joint of austenitic cast steel, close to it in chemical composition, with the welding process carried out according to the developed technological recommendations, made it possible to obtain a defect-free welded joint without loss of nitrogen in the weld metal. With a microhardness of the base metal of 252 HV50 , due to the alloying of the welding wire steel with nitrogen and vanadium, the metal of the weld and fusion line had a high microhardness (278 and 273 HV50 , respectively), significantly exceeding the microhardness of Cr – Ni cast austenite. The metal of the welded joint has high strength (0.9 of the base metal strength) and high impact toughness. The fracture of impact samples is characterized by a dimple structure characteristic of viscous materials. According to the obtained results, the new welding wire showed itself to be a promising material for welding austenitic high-nitrogen steels.
Effects of organic acid application and ectomycorrhizal symbiosis on growth and morphological parameters of Pinus pseudostrobus
Authors: Gómez-Romero Mariela , Lindig-Cisneros Roberto , Cruzado-Vargas Ana Laura , Del-Val Ek
Published: June 2024

Background: Many landscapes, both natural and anthropogenic, are dominated by degraded soils that have low phosphorus availability due to low overall phosphorus concentration or to phosphorus sequestration by iron-rich minerals.
Questions and / or Hypotheses: Does the application of low molecular weight organic acids improve phosphorus availability and plant growth in phosphorus-poor soils, and is this effect modulated by ectomycorrhizal fungi?
Studied species / data description /Mathematical model: Pinus pseudostrobus and its ectomycorrhiza Pisolithus arhizus, in addition to six sodium salts of organic acids.
Study site and dates: The experiment was carried out in a shade house (35 % shade) in Morelia, Michoacán in 2015.
Methods: We conducted experiments with Pinus pseudostrobus and its ectomycorrhiza Pisolithus arhizus in addition to six sodium salts of organic acids. Sodium salts of citrate, oxalate, acetate, tartrate, succinate and malate were added to the soil at 0, 4, 8, 16, 32 and 64 micromolar concentrations.
Results: The salts of the organic acids—particularly tartrate and malate-solubilized phosphorus and improved plant growth after 12 months in the absence of P. arhizus. When plants were inoculated with P. arhizus, the effect of most organic acids was either detrimental or non-significant. However, citrate, tartrate and succinate improved biomass and morphological parameters.
Conclusions: These results suggest that adding appropriate organic acids to heavily degraded soils can aid P. pseudostrobus establishment and its benefits are higher than the association with mycorrhiza for young plants during the initial stages of fungal colonization.
“Expunge Virtually All Use of the Passive Voice”: How Does Style Guideline Affect Passive Voice Occurrences in Research Articles?
Authors: Fauziah Humairah , Bashtomi Yazid
Published: June 2024

Background: The prevalence and impact of passive voice (PV) structures in research articles have garnered attention, particularly within the context of academic publishing guidelines. Some journals’ writing style guideline, for example, explicitly advises authors to eliminate passive voice instances from their manuscripts, prompting an examination of the extent to which this guideline influences authors' choices in different journal contexts.
Purpose: This study aimed at comparing the frequency of passive voice (PV) structures used in research articles published by journals originating in Indonesia (henceforth, JOI) to those in research articles published by journals originating in English-speaking countries (henceforth, JOE).
Method: Data were gathered from respected journals in Indonesia and the United Kingdom, both renowned for their excellence in language education and applied linguistics. After reviewing relevant literature and considering journal origins and author affiliations, we selected 34 articles (17 from each group) out of 66. We focused our analysis on the 'Introduction' and 'Method' sections, as these sections typically contain active voice in the former and passive voice in the latter. Other sections and peripheral elements were excluded. The analysis involved exporting PDFs to text files to count words and passive voice occurrences. We utilized a passive voice detector tool and manual analysis for accuracy. A t-test was conducted to compare the frequency of passive voice between the two journals.
Results: The results indicated three main findings with respect to the research questions: 1) PVs in JOI occurred more frequently in the ‘Method’ than in the ‘Introduction’ section, 2) similarly, PVs in JOE occurred more frequently in the ‘Method’ than in the ‘Introduction’ section, 3) JOI comprised fewer sentences than JOE but the frequency of PVs in JOI was significantly higher than that in JOE.
Conclusion: We inferred that the current guidelines seemingly affected the authors' choices of using PV. We also provided some suggestions on how to use AV and PV appropriately in the manuscript.
Online Learning in Modern Digital Era: A Distance Training Program for Greek Language Teachers
Authors: Bouras Spyridon , Barkas Panagiotis , Griva Eleni
Published: June 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study, which was part of a broader research on Greek minority education in Albania, was the evaluation of a training program tailored to language teachers’ needs who teach Greek in bilingual/intercultural environments. In particular, the study attempted to contribute the development of an integrated framework for the training of language teachers in the modern educational process. Specifically, distance training was carried out, in modern and asynchronous environments through a training platform. According to the mapping of the needs of the Greek Language teachers in bilingual educational environments throughout Albania and based on the specifications dictated by the international literature, 10 thematic modules were designed with modern methods in the instruction of Greek.
Method: The training program was implemented in 43 language teachers of Greek minority education in Albania from the area of Argyrokastro, Delvino and Agioi Saranda. For the evaluation of the program four forms were utilized that were carried out at different stages of the program: a) Initial, b) Formative, c) Final and d) Follow-up Evaluation. To collect the quantitatively data, four questionnaires were distributed at all stages of the training program to trainees.
Results: The results indicated the effectiveness of the training program and highlighted the active involvement of trainees in all stages of the program. It revealed the development of teachers’ ability to take decisions in order to improve daily teaching routines with the ultimate goal of achieving a quality language education in bilingual/intercultural environments. The trainees acquired, through digital learning processes, the ability to implement innovative language activities in their classrooms, laying the foundations for the consolidation of a modern way of thinking of language teachers.
Implications: The collection of data will contribute to the implementation of more effective training programs in the region and the application of modern teaching methods by teachers who teach in bilingual/intercultural environments in general.
Reading Comprehension Performance Among Impulsive and Reflective English Learners: Examining the Influence of Three Reading Methods
Authors: Moiinvaziri Marjon
Published: June 2024

Background: Exploring the impact of various reading methods - such as oral reading, silent reading, and the relatively understudied subvocalization method - on the comprehension abilities of language learners with different cognitive styles, including reflective and impulsive learners, can contribute significantly to understanding how different reading techniques enhance comprehension across diverse cognitive styles.  
Purpose: To investigate the role of three reading methods, including oral, silent, and subvocalization, on the comprehension performance of a group of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners, considering the cognitive styles of impulsivity and reflectivity.
Method: In this study, 60 female students studying in first-grade senior high school were selected based on purposive sampling. Employing a counterbalanced quasi-experimental design with three treatments, the research investigated how different reading methods influenced the impulsive and reflective learners' reading performance. The impulsivity and reflectivity of the participants were determined by Eysenck's Impulsiveness Questionnaire (I.7).
Results: The results revealed that all participants, both reflective and impulsive, demonstrated better comprehension performance with oral and subvocalization methods compared to silent reading. The oral and subvocalization methods had a similar effect on their performance. Reflective learners outperformed impulsive learners across all three methods, showing significantly higher performance. Additionally, most participants expressed a preference for oral reading over the other two methods. 
Conclusion: The outcomes suggest the importance of teachers' increased flexibility in utilizing diverse reading methods and considering learners' diverse characteristics, including their cognitive style, in classroom instruction
Evidence-Based Social Sciences and Practices: A Scoping Review
Authors: Raitskaya Lilia , Tikhonova Elena
Published: June 2024

Introduction: The evidence-based medicine (EBM) was introduced in the 1990s, paving the way for the new approaches to science methodology and research evidence that changed medicine-related practices. Following the EBM, social sciences ranging from education to public governance and policymaking entered a new stage of knowledge production and dissemination. Each evidence-based social science field produces its own evidence and evidence synthesis laying the foundation for efficient social practices. Pilot searches failed to bring complex and complete evidence-based methodology for social sciences.
Purpose: This scoping review aims to identify the scope of the evidence-based social sciences and practices as an emerging field.
Method: The review adhered to the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews, and the PPC framework. The eligibility criteria include problem (population), concept, context, language, time period, types of sources, geographical location, databases, areas of research. The searches to identify relevant publications entail searches in the Scopus database. The studies were identified and selected by screening titles, abstracts and full texts, totalling 35 documents.
Results: The results cover search and selection outcomes; a bibliometric analysis, the breakdown of the publications among the four thematic clusters; the findings relating to evidence-based medicine and practice methodology applicable to social sciences; the analysis of the research area of evidence-based social sciences and practices; the social science practices by sectors. Much of the EBM methodology was directly borrowed by social sciences. Though, the major controversy was found in the hierarchy and levels of evidence as social sciences are subject to human choices. Randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews were analysed in the context of social sciences. The most elaborated and fast developing evidence-based areas in social sciences contained evidence-based education and evidence-based policymaking, with systems of governmental agencies and institutions introducing these evidence-based practices.
Сonclusion. The review attained the objective and gave answers to the research questions. Only few studies were published to comprehensively address the emerging field of evidence-based social sciences and practices. Fragmentated sub-fields are covered unevenly, with many mythological divergences and disputed issues, including the quality of evidence, their weight and hierarchy, types of research.
BETTING, SELF-TRANSFORMATION AND SINFUL RESPECTABILITY: PARADOXICAL RELIGIOUSNESS IN SILAS MARNER
Authors: Öğünç Ömer
Published: June 2024

One of the leading authors of the Victorian era with her important novels well known for realistic depictions of the nineteenth-century English society and providing an insight into the psychology of her characters, George Eliot (1819-1880) focuses on social arena in the early decades of the era with Silas Marner (1861) that juxtaposes a lower-class protagonist with middle class norms and represents a highly controversial account of religious and social interaction. Eliot’s Silas Marner is preceded by Adam Bede (1860) and The Mill on the Floss (1860), both of which are masterpieces for Victorian novel, and it is one of the lesser works due to its popularity back in the day. However, the novel invites a critical analysis due to the representation of the dynamics between religious faith and devotion to ethics resulting from the infamous decision and the fate that befalls on the protagonist Silas. Silas Marner marks a controversial point in the understanding of Victorian religiousness due to the protagonist’s association of faith with the result of his betting. Therefore, the novel is analysed as an account of paradoxical middle-class values based on the dichotomy between the highly promoted religious understanding and the infamous fate of Silas following his adherence to social and religious teachings. Through social criticism, the aim of this study is to demonstrate that the notions of individuality and individual’s happiness traditionally represented in Victorian fiction have been deceptive and misleading from the beginning of the industrial era.
Detection of Bordetella pertussis and Bordetella parapertussis Using the ABI 7500 Real-time PCR System v1
Authors: Cheung Martin , Lee Tracy , B Azana Robert , Janz Loretta , Prystajecky Natalie , Hoang Linda
Published: June 2024

This procedure provides instructions for how to perform qualitative PCR (qPCR) for the detection of the IS481 insertion sequence of Bordetella pertussis and the pIS1001 insertion sequence of the Bordetella parapertussis from appropriate direct specimens. The IS481 insertion has been found to be present in some strains of B. bronchiseptica and most strains of B. holmesii. Some strains of B. bronchseptica also carry the pIS1001insertion sequence. The B. holmesii and B. bronchiseptica multiplex qPCR should be performed when indicated.
Concept of Multifactor Method and Non-Functional Requirements Solution to Increase Resilience through Functional Safety with Cybersecurity Analysis
Authors: Piesik Emilian , Śliwiński Marcin , Subramanian Narayanan , Zalewski Janusz
Published: June 2024

In the process of designing safety systems, an integrated approach in safety and cybersecurity analysis is necessary. The paper describes a new technique of increasing resilience through integrated analysis of functional safety and cybersecurity. It is a modeling methodology based on the combination of the multifactor method utilizing modified risk graphs, used previously for Safety Integrity Level (SIL) assessment, and the Non-Functional Requirements (NFR) approach. The NFR approach, based on the analysis of graphical representation of conceptual and physical components of the system, contributes a technique to include cybersecurity through the Softgoal Interdependency Graph. The assessment methodology is outlined in detail and applied to a case study involving an industrial control system. The analysis turns out to be effective in both aspects: confirming the findings of the multifactor approach based on modified risk graphs and complementing the traditional analysis to increase resilience in discovering and mitigating security vulnerabilities for SIL assessment by the use of NFR.
Optimization of magnetic resonance imaging of the hand
Authors: Vasilev Yuriy A. , Semenov Dmitry S. , Petraikin Alexey V. , Uchevatkin Andrey A. , Abuladze Liya R. , Bazhin Alexander V. , Sharova Dariya E.
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND: Magnetic resonance imaging is one of the leading imaging modalities of the musculoskeletal system. However, when imaging the hand, major problems in magnetic resonance imaging include the lack of specialized coils and reliable fixation devices for the hand, uncomfortable patient posture, motion artifacts, and small anatomical structures in the wrist. These factors inevitably lead to incorrect interpretation.
AIM: To improve the quality of magnetic resonance imaging of the hand by developing an approach to coil selection, scanning protocol, and hand positioning and fixation.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A positioning device was developed to prevent hand movements. Two types of coils were evaluated. Magnetic resonance images were evaluated comparatively, as well as by a musculoskeletal radiologist.
RESULTS: А head coil is more appropriate when scanning the entire hand, for example, in rheumatic diseases. A knee coil is more appropriate when studying smaller anatomical structures (including the wrist) owing to a smaller field of view and higher resolution. Based on the obtained data, guidelines for the selection of scanning parameters, sequences, and coils for magnetic resonance imaging of the hand were formulated. To prevent motion artifacts, a special fixation device of the patient’s hand was introduced.
CONCLUSION: Certain factors directly affect the qualitative magnetic resonance imaging study of the hand, such as safety protocols, scanning parameters, and hand fixation. The guidelines presented in this study and the use of the developed specialized fixation device may improve the quality of magnetic resonance imaging of the hand.
Retrospective analysis of the structure of closed-eye injuries in children
Authors: Khamraeva Lola S. , Bobokha Lyubava Y. , Kurbanbaeva Gozzal S.
Published: June 2024

AIM: This study aimed to analyze retrospectively the status of closed-eye injuries in children based on clinic data of the Tashkent Pediatric Medical Institute (TashPMI) from 2018 to 2022.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study analyzed TashPMI clinic’s reporting records for 2018–2022.
RESULTS: During the reporting period, 5,938 patients with various diseases of the eye and its appendages were treated. Of these, 1,438 (24.2%) patients were diagnosed with eye traumas and their complications. Among complications of closed eye injury, retinal detachment and traumatic cataracts accounted for 8.3% and 7.5%, respectively. Closed eye injury were more common among boys (57.2%) aged 5–14 years (64.4%). From 2018 to 2022, the number of patients with post-contusion retinal detachment declined, despite a persistent upward trend in the number of hospitalized patients with blunt traumas. This decline was likely due to the timely diagnosis and treatment of these injuries in the acute period.
CONCLUSION: For 2018–2022 in TashPMI clinic, patients with closed-eye injuries accounted for 7% of the total number of hospitalized patients and 28.9% of the total number of injuries. The number of patients with closed-eye injuries tended to increase over 5 years, both in relation to the total number of hospitalized patients and the total number of patients with injuries and their complications for each year separately. The results of the retrospective analysis of closed-eye injuries in children based on TashPMI clinic data demonstrated the urgency of treating ophthalmic injuries in children, which requires prevention, prompt first aid, and specialized high-tech assistance.
The Need for Serious Support for Basic Medical Science in Iran
Authors: Akhondzadeh Shahin
Published: June 2024

The Article Abstract is not available.
Exploring the Molecular Underpinnings of Skin Regeneration and Wound Healing: The Role of Renin Angiotensin
Authors: Qoreishi Seyedeh Hoda , Khazeei Tabari Mohammad Amin , Găman Mihnea-Alexandru , Kazeminejad Armaghan
Published: June 2024

The aim of this study is to review the role of renin-angiotensin in skin regeneration and wound healing with a focus on molecular mechanisms. Angiotensin receptor type 1 (AT1R) are abundant in the wounded area, and thus, lead to the activation of ERK, STAT1, and STAT3 which can lead to epidermal self-renewal. The expression of Renin Angiotensin System (RAS) components was significantly lower in wounds caused by burning, rather than intact skin, noting that RAS is involved in the re-epithelialization of skin. ERK, STAT and STAT3 are the targets of Ang II, indicating that RAS active components are involved in fibroblast, stem cells and keratinocyte migration. The effect of inhibiting the RAS on wound healing is context-dependent. On one hand, it is suggested that inhibiting RAS during this phase may slow down wound healing speed. On the other hand, studies have shown that RAS inhibition in this phase can lead to α-SMA activation, ultimately accelerating the wound healing process. Most of the investigations indicate that the inhibition of RAS with Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) and Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) plays a significant role in tissue remodeling in the last phase of wound healing. It has been shown that the inhibition of RAS can inhibit scar formation and fibrosis through the downregulation of inflammatory and fibrogenic agents, such as TGF-β, SMAD2/3, and TAK1, PDGF-BB, and HSP47. To sum up, that local administration of RAS regulators might lead to less scar formation and inflammation in the last phase of wound closure.
Exploring the Potential of In vitro Maturation (IVM) of Oocytes: Indications, Applications, and Treatment Protocols
Authors: Torkashvand Hossein , Shabani Ronak , Amiri Iraj , Darakhshan Roya , Maleki Behnam , Doostabadi Mohammad Reza , Mehdizadeh Mehdi
Published: June 2024

Background: This review addresses the current understanding of In Vitro Maturation (IVM) treatment, including indications and effective treatment protocols influencing oocyte developmental competence.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed to gather relevant studies, clinical trials, and reviews related to IVM. Databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, and pertinent medical journals were searched. The selected literature was analyzed and synthesized to offer a comprehensive overview.
Results: IVM has emerged as a promising technique for inducing maturation in immature oocytes across various developmental stages. Its applications extend to areas utilizing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), gaining traction as a treatment option for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and fertility preservation in cancer patients. Recent advancements have led to improved global pregnancy rates, resulting in successful births. IVM also holds potential in reducing risks associated with conventional IVF, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and multiple pregnancies. Despite these advantages, IVM adoption in clinical practice remains limited. Ongoing research aims to refine therapeutic protocols and expand clinical indications.
Conclusion: IVM holds promise in assisted reproductive technology, spanning applications from cancer patient fertility preservation to addressing PCOS. Enhanced pregnancy rates highlight efficacy, while risk reduction compared to IVF underscores its importance. Further research is needed for optimal use across patient groups, emphasizing protocol refinement and expanded applications.
The Phenotypic and Molecular Identification of Phyllospheric Bacteria Possessing Antimicrobial Activity from Funtumia elastica (Preuss) Stapf.
Authors: Adeniyi Bolanle A. , Ogunlana Mercy , Igbokwe Christopher O. , Tajudeen Bamidele , Mahady Gail B.
Published: June 2024

Background: Unlike plant phytochemicals, little has been done to explore the metabolites from phyllosphere bacterial flora, some of which enabled them to survive interspecific competition through amensalism. This study evaluated the antimicrobial activity of metabolites from Phyllospheric Bacteria (PB) isolated from Funtumia elastica (FE), against selected bacterial and fungal pathogens. Phenotypic and molecular methods were used to identify the isolated phyllo-microbiota.
Methods: The PB were aseptically isolated by sonication. Their metabolites were obtained from the fresh overnight culture of the organisms. The cell-free supernatants containing the metabolites were used for antimicrobial assays against the pathogens. The DNA of the bacterial isolates were isolated using a NIMR-BIOTECH DNA extraction kit, while their 16S rRNA was amplified with the primer: 799F 5'-AACACGGATTA GATACC-3', 1193R 5'- ACGTCATCCCCACCTTCC-3', using SolisFast* Master Mix, (Solis Biodyne-Estonia). The BLAST of the sequence was done from the NCBI Genbank. The PB strains identified were submitted to NCBI and accession numbers were assigned to them.
Results: The phyllosphere of FE yielded 21 bacterial isolates: 7 Gram-positives and 14 Gram-negatives. The metabolites from these isolates showed varying degrees of bioactivity against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC29213), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) Klebsiella pneumoniae (ATCC 35659); Trychophyton rubrum, Candida albicans and Microsporum canis. Fifteen bioactive isolates sequenced yielded four genera, Enterobacter (E. hormaechei 98.44%), Bacillus (B. cereus 100%), Pontoea (P. dispersa 99.72%), Staphylococcus (S. arlettae 99.72%).
Conclusion: Bacteria from FE phyllosphere, produced metabolites antagonistic (cidal) to some human pathogens.  This has great potential for possible drug discovery.
Bactericidal Activity of Serum by Brucella Abortus RB51 Outer Membrane Protein’s Combined by Brucella Abortus S99 Lipopolysaccharide Induction
Authors: Sisakht Behnam Hajizadeh , Khaledi Mansoor , Afkhami Hamed , Rouhi Saber , Sepehrnia Saeed , Fanaee Vahideh , Karimi Hannaneh , Malekzadegan Yalda , Fathi Javad , Sadati Mahdi S.
Published: June 2024

Background: Brucellosis vaccines are designed to induce cellular immunity. An effective brucellosis vaccine could induce both cellular and humoral immunity. Serum Bactericidal Assay (SBA) is an important method for determining vaccine humoral immunity. This study is the first to observe humoral immunity in brucellosis by SBA.
Methods: Extracted Brucella abortus (B. abortus) Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Outer Membrane Proteins (OMPs) were injected into rabbits. Group 1 was injected with 25 µg of LPS, Group 2 was injected with 50 µg of OMPs, and Group 3 was injected with 1 ml of combined vaccine, 3 times every 2 weeks. The groups were challenged with B. abortus 544 in the second injection. Sera were separated 2 weeks after the last injection. SBA was performed, and each well was streak-cultured into a plate of Brucella agar. A colony count was done for each plate.
Results: Results have shown, the third injection of the combined vaccine had the highest titer of , and the efficacy of the vaccine was 87.71%.
Conclusion: As a conclusion, the results of this study showed that LPS and OMP's from B. abortus can provide acceptable immunity.
The Transformative Role of Artificial Intelligence in Diabetes Treatment
Authors: Rostami Masoud , Anoosheh Vida Sadat
Published: June 2024

The Article Abstract is not available.