bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unraveling the role of math anxiety in students’ math performance
Authors: Demedts Febe , Reynvoet Bert , Sasanguie Delphine , Depaepe Fien
Published: November 2022

Math anxiety (MA; i.e., feelings of anxiety experienced when being confronted with mathematics) can have negative implications on the mental health and well-being of individuals and is moderately negatively correlated with math achievement. Nevertheless, ambiguity about some aspects related to MA may prevent a fathomed understanding of this systematically observed relationship. The current study set out to bring these aspects together in a comprehensive study. Our first focus of interest was the multi-component structure of MA, whereby we investigated the relationship between state- and trait-MA and math performance (MP) and whether this relation depends on the complexity of a math task. Second, the domain-specificity of MA was considered by examining the contribution of general anxiety (GA) and MA on MP and whether MA also influences the performance in non-math tasks. In this study, 181 secondary school students aged between 16 and 18 years old were randomly presented with four tasks (varying in topic [math/non-math] and complexity [easy/difficult]). The math task was a fraction comparison task and the non-math task was a color comparison task, in which specific indicators were manipulated to develop an easy and difficult version of the tasks. For the first research question, results showed a moderate correlation between state- and trait-MA, which is independent of the complexity of the math task. Regression analyses showed that while state-MA affects MP in the easy math task, it is trait-MA that affects MP in the difficult math task. For the second research question, a high correlation was observed between GA and MA, but regression analyses showed that GA is not related to MP and MA has no predictive value for performance in non-math tasks. Taken together, this study underscores the importance of distinguishing between state and trait-MA in further research and suggests that MA is domain-specific.
Association between screen time and hyperactive behaviors in children under 3 years in China
Authors: Wu Jian-Bo , Yin Xiao-Na , Qiu Shuang-Yan , Wen Guo-Ming , Yang Wei-Kang , Zhang Jing-Yu , Zhao Ya-Fen , Wang Xin , Hong Xiao-Bing , Lu DaLi , Jing Jin
Published: November 2022

Background

Screen time during early life has increased dramatically among Chinese children. Excessive screen time has raised growing concerns about the neuropsychological development of children. The effects of screen exposure on early life and the boundary between screen time and hyperactive behaviors are well worth investigating. We examined associations between screen time and hyperactive behaviors in children under the age of 3 years using data from the Longhua Children Cohort Study (LCCS).

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 42,841 3-year-old children from Longhua District, Shenzhen. Information on socio-demographic characteristics, children’s annual screen time since birth, and hyperactive behaviors (measured by the Conners Parental Symptom Questionnaire) was collected through self-administered structured questionnaires completed by the primary caregiver. A series of logistic regression models assessed the association between screen time and hyperactive behaviors.

Results

The average daily screen time of children under the age of 3 years was 55.83 ± 58.54 min, and screen time increased with age. Binomial logistic regression analysis found that the earlier the screen exposure, the greater the risk of hyperactive behaviors. Using binary logistic regression model, after controlling for confounding factors, the study found that more screen time was more associated with hyperactive behaviors. For children aged 0–3 years with daily screen time exceeding 90, 120, 150, and 180 min, the risk values for hyperactive behaviors were 1.98 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05, 3.78), 2.71 (95%CI:1.38, 5.30), 3.17 (95% CI: 1.50, 6.65), and 4.62 (95% CI: 2.45, 8.71)], respectively.

Conclusion

Early screen exposure may be associated with hyperactive behaviors in children under the age of 3 years. More than 90 min of screen time per day in children under 3 years was associated with hyperactive behaviors. The findings support the importance of screen time interventions for children under 3 years.
On the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on mortality: Lost years or lost days?
Authors: Rousson Valentin , Locatelli Isabella
Published: November 2022

Objective

To quantify the (direct and indirect) impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on mortality for actual populations of persons living in 12 European countries in 2020.

Method

Based on demographic and mortality data, as well as remaining life expectancies found in the Human Mortality Database, we calculated a “population life loss” in 2020 for men and women living in Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland. This quantity was obtained by dividing the total number of years lost in 2020 (estimated from all-cause mortality data and attributed directly or indirectly to COVID-19) by the size of the population.

Results

A significant population life loss was found in 8 countries in 2020, with men losing an average of 8.7, 5.0, 4.4, 4.0, 3.7, 3.4, 3.1, and 2.7 days in Lithuania, Spain, Belgium, Hungary, Croatia, Portugal, Switzerland, and Sweden, respectively. For women, this loss was 5.5, 4.3, 3.7, 3.7, 3.1, 2.4, 1.6, and 1.4 days, respectively. No significant losses were found in Finland, Luxembourg, Denmark and Norway. Life loss was highly dependent on age, reaching 40 days at the age of 90 in some countries, while only a few significant losses occurred under the age of 60. Even in countries with a significant population life loss in 2020, it was on average about 30 times lower than in 1918, at the time of the Spanish flu.

Conclusions

Our results based on the concept of population life loss were consistent with those based on the classical concept of life expectancy, confirming the significant impact of COVID-19 on mortality in 8 European countries in 2020. However, while life expectancy losses were typically counted in months or years, population life losses could be counted in days, a potentially useful piece of information from a public health perspective.
Multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) with SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant BA.2.38 in a four-year-old Chinese girl: A case report
Authors: Wang Wen-yuan , Wang Yong-jun , An Cai-xia , Zhao Qi-jun , Wang Shu-ying , Li Wan-yi , Yi Bin , Li Huan
Published: November 2022

We report a severe COVID-19 complicated with MIS-C in a girl treated by the author in China, and discuss the current research status and progress in the diagnosis and therapy of MIS-C in children. The patient was a 4-year-old child previously healthy who was referred to the hospital with a complaint of fever, finally, Multisystem inflammatory syndrome was diagnosed with COVID-19.
Effects of air pollution on cardiovascular health in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: Evidence from a large tertiary hospital in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Zhang Jitian , Ren Dong , Wang Shuo , Zhu Sha , Qu Kai , Yuan Yuan
Published: November 2022

Air pollution has posed serious threats to human health. Based on the microdata of a large tertiary hospital in Shandong Province from 2016 to 2021, combined with the macro data such as air quality monitoring data, meteorological data, and city-level regional socio-economic data, this paper empirically tests the impact of air pollution instrumented by thermal inversions on the cardiovascular health of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its group differences. The results show that: (1) Air pollution has a negative impact on the cardiovascular health of patients with T2DM, that is, the cardiovascular health of patients with T2DM will decline in regions with high air pollution; (2) The impact of air pollution on cardiovascular health in T2DM patients is heterogeneous, with males and older patients bearing greater air pollution health losses; (3) From the perspective of the external environment, the negative effects of environmental pollution on patients' health were significantly reduced in areas with higher environmental regulation intensity and better public health conditions, indicating the necessity of strengthening environmental governance and increasing public health expenditure.
Epidemiology, health policy and public health implications of visual impairment and age-related eye diseases in mainland China
Authors: Li Cong , Zhu Bo , Zhang Jie , Guan Peng , Zhang Guisen , Yu Honghua , Yang Xiaohong , Liu Lei
Published: November 2022

The prevalence of visual impairment (VI) and age-related eye diseases has increased dramatically with the growing aging population in mainland China. However, there is limited comprehensive evidence on the progress of ophthalmic epidemiological research in mainland China to enhance our awareness of the prevention of eye diseases to inform public health policy. Here, we conducted a literature review of the population-based epidemiology of VI and age-related eye diseases in mainland China from the 1st of January 1946 to the 20th of October 2021. No language restrictions were applied. There was significant demographic and geographic variation in the epidemic of VI and age-related eye diseases. There are several factors known to be correlated to VI and age-related eye diseases, including age, gender, family history, lifestyle, biological factors, and environmental exposures; however, evidence relating to genetic predisposition remains unclear. In addition, posterior segment eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy, are amongst the major causes of irreversible visual impairments in the senile Chinese population. There remains a significant prevention gap, with only a few individuals showing awareness and achieving optimal medical care with regards to age-related eye diseases. Multiple challenges and obstacles need to be overcome, including the accelerated aging of the Chinese population, the lack of structured care delivery in many underdeveloped regions, and unequal access to care. Despite the progress to date, there are few well-conducted multi-center population-based studies following a single protocol in mainland China, which findings can hopefully provide valuable cues for governmental decision-making and assist in addressing and halting the incidence of VI and age-related eye diseases in China.
Ventanillas de Salud (VDS) and Mobile Health Units (MHU): A binational collaborative models
Authors: Rangel Gómez María Gudelia , Salazar Saúl , López Jaramillo Ana María , Lira Chávez Isaura Angélica , Romero Rangel Alejandra , Caballero Abraham Martha Leticia , Gutiérrez Reyes Luis , Rosales Cecilia B.
Published: November 2022

Over the years, the Mexican population in the United States has faced high prevalence of health-related inequalities and disadvantages and represents one of the most vulnerable migrant groups in the country. To help reduce the gaps in health care for the Mexican population, the Mexican government, in collaboration with strategic allies from various sectors, launched the Ventanillas de Salud (VDS) strategy, which was subsequently reinforced through the Mobile Health Units (MHU) care model. Both the VDS strategy and the MHU care model are intended to contribute to the development of initiatives, projects, and actions in health that will benefit the Mexican community living in the United States, which lacks or has difficulty accessing health services. This article provides a descriptive, analytical analysis of the VDS strategy and the MHU care model, as unique collaborative models, which can be replicated, and have achieved a positive impact on the health of Mexican and other Hispanic communities in the United States, at both the individual and community level.
Towards an embodied understanding of the sustainability of consumer choice—the case of fashion shopping
Authors: Solér Cecilia
Published: November 2022

This conceptual article uses an embodied theoretical lens to describe how consumption and shopping are bodily activities shaped by marketplaces. This article contributes to research on sustainable consumption in general and research on sustainable shopping in particular. The social and situated embodiment perspective highlights how sociomaterial marketplace elements configure shopping outcomes. The context of fashion shopping is used, and this article shows how an embodied view of shopping can increase our understanding of unsustainable shopping practices and promote shopping for sustainable products. This article aims to enrich the structural strand of sustainable consumption research by describing how the sustainability of individual shopping can be understood as skills and dispositions acquired within, or in relation to, marketplace activities and discourses. This suggests that current Western unsustainable fashion shopping practices, characterized by excessive consumption, change only if supply and communication practices in the fashion marketplace change.
It Takes A Pack To Raise A Pup
Authors: Sorum Mathew , Pruszenski Jordan , Borg Bridget L.
Published: November 2022

Wolves are important to keep ecosystems healthy. For wolf populations to thrive, pups need to survive into adulthood. Wolf pups can be harmed, even killed, by wolves from outside their pack. To protect the pups, some wolves in the pack must stay at the den and guard the pups. But some of the adults must leave the den sometimes, to hunt for food and to keep other wolves out of the pack’s territory. By monitoring and studying wolves for many years across North America and in Alaska’s national parks, we are learning how wolves divide these tasks. We know that the mother wolves care for their pups for the first several weeks while nursing, but once the pups no longer need milk, all pack members share in taking care of the pups. We have come to understand that all wolves are important to the success of the pack.
The grit crust: A poly-extremotolerant microbial community from the Atacama Desert as a model for astrobiology
Authors: Jung Patrick , Lehnert Lukas W. , Bendix Jörg , Lentendu Guillaume , Grube Martin , Alfaro Fernando D. , Rio Camilo del , Gutiérrez Alvarado José Luis , van den Brink Liesbeth , Lakatos Michael
Published: November 2022

The grit crust is a recently discovered, novel type of biocrust made of prokaryotic cyanobacteria, eukaryotic green algae, fungi, lichens and other microbes that grow around and within granitoid stone pebbles of about 6 mm diameter in the Coastal Range of the Atacama Desert, Chile. The microbial community is very well adapted towards the extreme conditions of the Atacama Desert, such as the highest irradiation of the planet, strong temperature amplitudes and steep wet-dry cycles. It also has several other striking features making this biocrust unique compared to biocrusts known from other arid biomes on Earth. It has already been shown that the grit crust mediates various bio-weathering activities in its natural habitat. These activities prime soil for higher organisms in a way that can be envisioned as a proxy for general processes shaping even extra-terrestrial landscapes. This mini-review highlights the potential of the grit crust as a model for astrobiology in terms of extra-terrestrial microbial colonization and biotechnological applications that support human colonization of planets.
One hundred most cited articles related to Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Xu Xuan , Guan Lulu , Wu Yao , Ke Huajing , Zhao Yuanbin , Liu Pi
Published: November 2022

Background

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has developed over the past few decades into a reliable technology for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Through a bibliometric analysis, this research attempted to evaluate the characteristics of the top 100 articles on ERCP that had the most citations.

Methods

We extracted pertinent publications from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) on July 9, 2022. The top 100 ERCP articles with the most citations were identified and analyzed. The following data were extracted: publication year, country/region, organization, total citation times, annual citation times, research type and research field, etc. To implement the network’s visual analysis, a bibliographic coupling network based on keywords was built using the VOSviewer 1.6.17 program.

Results

The journal with the most publications were GASTROINTESTINAL ENDOSCOPY, with 45 articles. Most of the top 100 articles came from the United States (n = 47) and Italy (n = 14). Indiana University and the University of Amsterdam were among the most important institutions in ERCP research. ML Freeman of the University of Minnesota contributed the highest number (n = 9) and the most highly cited paper. The age of the paper and article type is closely related to citation frequency. Of the 100 most-cited articles, clinical application in the field of ERCP has focused on three aspects: diagnosis, treatment, and complications. Clinical use of ERCP has shifted from diagnosis to treatment. Post-ERCP pancreatitis is the focus of attention, and the clinical application of technically complex therapeutic ERCP is the future development trend.

Conclusion

This study lists the most influential articles in ERCP by exposing the current state of the field, and showing the evolution of research trends to provide perspective for the future development of ERCP.
Accuracy of a Three-Dimensional (3D)-Printed Patient-Specific (PS) Femoral Osteotomy Guide: A Computed Tomography (CT) Study
Authors: Moralidou Maria , Di Laura Anna , Henckel Johann , Hothi Harry , Hart Alister James
Published: November 2022

Femoral neck osteotomy creates a critical anatomical landmark for surgeons performing primary Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA); it affects the final height and position of the femoral component. Patient Specific Instrumentation (PSI) has been developed to guide the osteotomy. We aimed to assess the accuracy of a patient-specific (PS) femoral osteotomy guide in primary THA using three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) analysis. We included pre- and post-operative CT data of 103 THAs. All patients underwent 3D planning to define the optimal femoral neck osteotomy level. Our primary objective was to quantify the discrepancy between the achieved and planned osteotomy level; our secondary objective was to evaluate the clinical outcome. The median (Interquartile Range—IQR) discrepancy between the achieved and planned osteotomy level was 0.3 mm (−1 mm to 2 mm). We found a strong positive correlation between the planned and achieved osteotomy level (R2 = 0.9, p < 0.001). A satisfactory clinical outcome was recorded. Our findings suggest that surgeons can use 3D-printed PS guides to achieve a femoral neck osteotomy with a high level of accuracy to the plan.
Intrapatient Variability (IPV) and the Blood Concentration Normalized by the Dose (C/D Ratio) of Tacrolimus—Their Correlations and Effects on Long-Term Renal Allograft Function
Authors: Kwiatkowska Ewa , Ciechanowski Kazimierz , Domański Leszek , Dziedziejko Violetta , Przybyciński Jarosław , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: November 2022

Tacrolimus, in combination with mycophenolate mofetil and glucocorticoids, is the basis of immunosuppressive therapy after renal transplantation. Tacrolimus intrapatient variability (IPV) and the blood concentration normalized by the dose (concentration/dose ratio, C/D ratio) both have an effect on the function of the transplanted kidney. In this study, we examined whether the metabolism rate affected IPV, whether the C/D ratio value was stable in the long-term follow-up, and whether it could be used for IPV measurements. In addition, our study population was examined for the effect of the C/D ratio and IPV on long-term renal function. The C/D ratio and IPV were examined in 170 patients at appointments held at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after RTx. The average time post renal transplantation was 70 months. Renal function defined as creatinine concentration at the last appointment was examined. Results: the mean C/D ratio in the study group was 1.63. A negative correlation between the C/D ratio and creatinine concentration at the end of the follow-up was observed. Between the C/D ratio < and ≥1.63 groups, significant differences in creatinine concentration at the last appointment were found. No relationship was identified between the mean C/D ratio and IPV. The C/D ratio values increased significantly over a longer post-transplant period (12, 24, 60 and 120 m). We did not find a correlation between the mean IPV and the creatinine concentration from the last appointment. Our study group was divided into terciles according to IPV, while no renal graft function differences were found at the same appointment. Conclusion: the C/D ratio is useful for assessing the effects of the metabolism rate of tacrolimus on the long-term renal graft function. The C/D ratio does not affect the IPV value. IPV calculated from variability of the C/D ratio does not influence transplanted kidney function. The C/D changes over time.
Identifying the Photometric Characteristics and Applicability of Hybrid Solar Lighting
Authors: Han Hyun-Joo , Mehmood Muhammad Uzair , Park Jin-Chul , Lee Joo-Won , Lim Sang-Hoon , Oh Seung-Jin
Published: November 2022

The present research aims at promoting the stability and applicability of a hybrid daylighting system combining daylight and artificial light, which eventually enables a constant and pleasant luminous flux of the mixed light delivered by a terminal device installed indoors. That is, the present system allows a constant amount of luminous flux through its terminal device similar to an electric lamp, demonstrating its energy efficiency as well as comfortableness. The system effectively combines two different types of light, as solar rays are collected by a solar tracking sun light collector. The mixed light is transmitted indoors by optical fiber cables all the way to terminal devices installed indoors and discharged as needed. This feature enables the utilization of daylight to its full capacity, promoting solar availability. In this study, the photometry of hybrid lighting was experimentally measured and analyzed by using a spectrometer for different portions of sunlight when maintaining a constant luminous flux of mixed light. The effectiveness of hybrid lighting was explored for a number of cases in actual conditions, and the system was capable of delivering a constant illuminance of 1200 lux on a plane located 1.1 m away from the terminal device (light emitter). Finally, the system was installed in a test cell to verify its effectiveness for indoor illumination.
Comparative Evaluation of Technologies at a Heavy Metal Contaminated Site: The Role of Feasibility Studies
Authors: Pedron Francesca , Grifoni Martina , Barbafieri Meri , Franchi Elisabetta , Vocciante Marco , Petruzzelli Gianniantonio
Published: November 2022

Many agricultural areas are contaminated by heavy metals to such a level that the growth of plants is drastically reduced. Based on the site’s specific characteristics, feasibility studies were carried out to choose the most effective technologies. Feasibility tests showed that soil washing and phytoremediation technologies could be used at the agricultural site under study. The efficiency of the technologies is highly dependent on soil characteristics, which determine the chemical form of the metals. The results indicate that water-based soil washing can be successfully used with the possibility of reaching the remediation objectives quickly. However, the technology in the first step essentially breaks down the soil. Moreover, phytoremediation cannot be used directly to overcome the toxicity derived from the very high bioavailability of the heavy metals. Still, there is the need to use “assisted” phytoremediation by adding compost that reduces metal bioavailability, allowing phytoextraction. In this case, a longer time is needed to reach the remediation target. The results provide a preliminary scenario for decision-makers and stakeholders to assess possible technologies applicable and a possible scheme to be applied in similar cases of polluted agricultural areas.
Recent Advances in Multiple Strategies for the Synthesis of Terpenes by Engineered Yeast
Authors: Yang Limeng , Liu Huan , Jin Yuhan , Liu Junfeng , Deng Li , Wang Fang
Published: November 2022

Terpenes are an important class of natural secondary metabolites with a wide range of applications in food, pharmaceuticals, and biofuels. Currently, the traditional production methods of terpenes almost depend on plant extraction and chemical conversion. The plant extraction method consumes a lot of natural resources and makes it difficult to separate the target compound from the extractives, while the chemical conversion method has a complex synthesis route and leads to severe environmental pollution. Compared to plant extraction and chemical conversion methods, the microbial synthesis method has the advantages of preferable sustainability, low production cost and environmental friendliness, and is a potential way to achieve efficient terpenes production in the future. Yeast is a conventional platform for bio-chemical production and is also engineered to synthesize terpenes due to their abundant intracellular acetyl-CoA, high metabolic flux of the MVA pathway, high local concentrations of substrates and enzymes, and fewer by-products. At present, a variety of terpenes including α-farnesene, squalene, limonene, β-carotene have been successfully synthesized by the engineered yeast via the application of multiple strategies. This work summarized the progress of research on these strategies conducted in the synthesis of terpenes from several aspects, including the adaptive screening and expression of terpene synthases, the regulation of synthesis pathways, and the application of intracellular compartmentalized expression strategy. The perspectives and challenges were also discussed, from which it was hoped that some useful views for future research on the synthesis of terpenes in yeast would be provided.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects Induced by Allium sativum L. Extracts on an Ex Vivo Experimental Model of Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Recinella Lucia , Gorica Era , Chiavaroli Annalisa , Fraschetti Caterina , Filippi Antonello , Cesa Stefania , Cairone Francesco , Martelli Alma , Calderone Vincenzo , Veschi Serena , Lanuti Paola , Cama Alessandro , Orlando Giustino , Ferrante Claudio , Menghini Luigi , Di Simone Simonetta Cristina , Acquaviva Alessandra , Libero Maria Loreta , Nilofar  , Brunetti Luigi , Leone Sheila
Published: November 2022

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic and multifactorial inflammatory conditions of the colonic mucosa (ulcerative colitis), characterized by increased and unbalanced immune response to external stimuli. Garlic and its bioactive constituents were reported to exert various biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities. We aimed to evaluate the protective effects of a hydroalcoholic (GHE) and a water (GWE) extract from a Sicilian variety of garlic, known as Nubia red garlic, on an ex vivo experimental model of ulcerative colitis, involving isolated LPS-treated mouse colon specimens. Both extracts were able to counteract LPS-induced cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB), and interleukin (IL)-6 gene expression in mouse colon. Moreover, the same extracts inhibited prostaglandin (PG)E2, 8-iso-PGF2α, and increased the 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid/serotonin ratio following treatment with LPS. In particular, GHE showed a better anti-inflammatory profile. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects induced by both extracts could be related, at least partially, to their polyphenolic composition, with particular regards to catechin. Concluding, our results showed that GHE and GWE exhibited protective effects in colon, thus suggesting their potential use in the prevention and management of ulcerative colitis.
Influence of Competition on Anxiety and Heart Rate Variability in Young Tennis Players
Authors: García-Gonzálvez Sergio , López-Plaza Daniel , Abellán-Aynés Oriol
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of competition on anxiety and heart rate variability (HRV) in tennis players. Thirty tennis players (15 boys and 15 girls) were included in the study. In boys, the mean age was 14.53 years, mean height was 169.20 cm and mean weight was 60.60 kg. In girls, the mean age was 13.60 years, mean height was 164.07 cm and mean weight was 53.33 kg. Competitive anxiety was measured using the Competitive Anxiety Inventory-2 (CSAI-2) and the State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). HRV was also analyzed using a validated HR chest band (Polar H7). These measurements were performed at two different times, before training and before competing, both times maintaining the same conditions for the participants. In addition, a gender differentiation was carried out. Somatic anxiety and state anxiety were significantly higher at the pre-competition time compared to the pre-training time (p < 0.05). On the contrary, the rest of the variables did not present significant differences between conditions (p > 0.05). On the other hand, no correlation was observed between anxiety and heart rate variability either before competition or before training. As for gender differentiation, significant differences were obtained between males and females in state anxiety and heart rate, identifying higher values in females.
Holiday Effect and Stock Returns: Evidence from Stock Exchanges of Gulf Cooperation Council
Authors: Pinto Prakash , Bolar Shakila , Hawaldar Iqbal Thonse , George Aleyamma , Meero Abdelrhman
Published: November 2022

One of the prominent types of calendar anomalies includes holiday effects, where stocks show abnormally higher mean returns on the days prior to holidays in comparison to other trading days. The current study investigates the existence of holiday effects in the stock exchanges of the Gulf Co-operation Council, namely, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates for the period between January 2009 and December 2020. The national holidays that are considered for the study are New Year’s Day, Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet birthday), Eid-Al-Isra Wal Miraj, Eid-Al-Fitr, National Day, Hegire Day (Islamic New Year), and Christmas Day. The study employs descriptive statistics and the non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test. The findings of the study disclosed the significant pre-holiday mean returns for ADSMI, BHSEASI, DFMGI, MSM30, TASI and FTDKUW, whereas significant post-holiday mean returns were found only in MSM30 and TASI. The study provided evidence for the presence of a calendar anomaly like holiday effects in the major indices of the Gulf Co-operation Council and proved the market was not in an efficient form during the study period.
Rectifying Ill-Formed Interlingual Space: A Framework for Zero-Shot Translation on Modularized Multilingual NMT
Authors: Liao Junwei , Shi Yu
Published: November 2022

The multilingual neural machine translation (NMT) model can handle translation between more than one language pair. From the perspective of industrial applications, the modularized multilingual NMT model (M2 model) that only shares modules between the same languages is a practical alternative to the model that shares one encoder and one decoder (1-1 model). Previous works have proven that the M2 model can benefit from multiway training without suffering from capacity bottlenecks and exhibits better performance than the 1-1 model. However, the M2 model trained on English-centric data is incapable of zero-shot translation due to the ill-formed interlingual space. In this study, we propose a framework to help the M2 model form an interlingual space for zero-shot translation. Using this framework, we devise an approach that combines multiway training with a denoising autoencoder task and incorporates a Transformer attention bridge module based on the attention mechanism. We experimentally show that the proposed method can form an improved interlingual space in two zero-shot experiments. Our findings further extend the use of the M2 model for multilingual translation in industrial applications.
Approximation of the Fixed Point of the Product of Two Operators in Banach Algebras with Applications to Some Functional Equations
Authors: Ben Amara Khaled , Berenguer Maria Isabel , Jeribi Aref
Published: November 2022

Making use of the Boyd-Wong fixed point theorem, we establish a new existence and uniqueness result and an approximation process of the fixed point for the product of two nonlinear operators in Banach algebras. This provides an adequate tool for deriving the existence and uniqueness of solutions of two interesting type of nonlinear functional equations in Banach algebras, as well as for developing an approximation method of their solutions. In addition, to illustrate the applicability of our results we give some numerical examples.
Coordination Polymers Based on Rhenium Octahedral Chalcocyanide Cluster Anions and Ag+ Cations with Bipyridine Analogs
Authors: Litvinova Yulia M. , Gayfulin Yakov M. , Sukhikh Taisiya S. , Brylev Konstantin A. , Mironov Yuri V.
Published: November 2022

A series of six coordination polymers based on octahedral cluster anions [Re6Q8(CN)6]4− (Q = S or Se) and Ag+ cations coordinated by bipyridine analogs were synthesized under solvothermal conditions. Their structures have been characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Compounds 1 and 2 described by the general formula [{Ag(phen)}4Re6Q8(CN)6] (Q = Se (1), S (2); phen = 1,10-phenanthroline) exhibit layered structures assembled into a supramolecular network by CH…π contacts. At the same time, compounds [{Ag(bipym)}2Ag2Re6Se8(CN)6] (bipym = 2,2′-bipyrimidine) (3), [{Ag2(bipy)}Ag2Re6Se8(CN)6]·CH3CN (bipy = 4,4′-bipyridine) (4) and [{Ag(dpbp)}4Re6Q8(CN)6]·2H2O·2CH3CN (Q = Se (5), S (6); dpbp = 4,4′-Di(4-pyridyl)biphenyl)) evince framework structures. In 1, 2, 5 and 6 weak Ag⋯Ag interactions are observed. All the compounds show luminescence in the red region. The luminescence quantum yields and lifetimes were found to be notably higher than those for most of the coordination polymers based on the octahedral rhenium cluster complexes.
Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of Argentinian Propolis of Four Species of Stingless Bees
Authors: Isidorov Valery A. , Maslowiecka Jolanta , Szoka Lukasz , Pellizzer Naldo , Miranda Dora , Olchowik-Grabarek Ewa , Zambrzycka Monika , Swiecicka Izabela
Published: November 2022

The chemical composition of propolis of four species of stingless bees (SLBs) from Argentina was determined, and its antibacterial and anticancer activity was evaluated on selected types of microbes and cancer cell lines. Volatile secretions of all propolis samples are formed by 174 C2–C15 organic compounds, mainly mono- and sesquiterpenes and their derivatives. The chromatograms of ether extracts showed 287 peaks, of which 210 were identified. The most representative groups in the extracts of various propolis samples were diterpenoids (mainly resin acids), triterpenoids and phenolic compounds: long-chain alkenyl phenols, resorcinols and salicylates. The composition of both volatile and extractive compounds turned out to be species-specific; however, in both cases, the pairwise similarity of the propolis of Scaptotrigona postica and Tetragonisca fiebrigi versus that of Tetragona clavipes and Melipona quadrifasciata quadrifasciata was observed, which indicated the similarity of the preferences of the respective species when choosing plant sources of resin. The composition of the studied extracts completely lacked flavonoids and phenolcarboxylic acids, which are usually associated with the biological activity and medicinal properties of propolis. However, tests on selected microbial species and cancer cell lines showed such activity. All propolis samples tested against Paenibacillus larvae, two species of Bacillus and E. coli showed biofilm inhibition unrelated to the inhibition of bacterial growth, leading to a decrease in their pathogenicity. Testing the anticancer activity of ether extracts using five types of cell cultures showed that all four types of propolis studied inhibit the growth of cancer cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Propolis harvested by T. clavipes demonstrated the highest cytotoxicity on all tested cell lines.
Synthesis of 2,5-Dialkyl-1,3,4-oxadiazoles Bearing Carboxymethylamino Groups
Authors: Łuczyński Marcin , Kubiesa Kornelia , Kudelko Agnieszka
Published: November 2022

A series of new symmetrical 2,5-dialkyl-1,3,4-oxadiazoles containing substituted alkyl groups at the terminal positions with substituents, such as bromine, isopropyloxycarbonylmethylamino, and carboxymethylamino, were successfully synthesized. The developed multistep method employed commercially available acid chlorides differing in alkyl chain length and terminal substituent, hydrazine hydrate, and phosphorus oxychloride. The intermediate bromine-containing 2,5-dialkyl-1,3,4-oxadiazoles were easily substituted with diisopropyl iminodiacetate, followed by hydrolysis in aqueous methanol solution giving the corresponding 1,3,4-oxadiazoles bearing carboxymethylamino substituents. The structure of all products was confirmed by conventional spectroscopic methods including 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HRMS.
How Do Positions of Phosphito Units on a Calix[4]Arene Platform Affect the Enantioselectivity of a Catalytic Reaction?
Authors: Hkiri Shaima , Sémeril David
Published: November 2022

Three chiral diphosphites, (S,S)-5,17-bis(1,1′-binaphthyl-2,2′-dioxyphosphanyloxy)-25,26,27,28-tetrapropyloxycalix[4]arene (1), (S,S)-5,11,17,23-tetra-tert-butyl-25,27-dipropoxy-26,28-bis(1,1′-binaphthyl-2,2′-dioxyphosphanyloxy)calix[4]arene (2) and (S,S)-5,11,17,23-tetra-tert-butyl-25,26-dipropoxy-27,28-bis(1,1′-binaphthyl-2,2′-dioxyphosphanyloxy)calix[4]arene (3), based on conical calix[4]arene were investigated in the rhodium-catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of α-dehydroamino esters. High conversions were observed after 24 h under 5 bar of hydrogen whatever the employed diphosphite, and the chiral induction increases in the order 1 < 3 < 2. This may be due to the presence of the calix[4]arene moiety, which by its presence modifies the second coordination sphere of the catalytic center. The larger steric hindrance around the rhodium atom leads to the higher enantiomeric excess.
Pilot Scale Roller Milling of Chickpeas into a De-Hulled Coarse Meal and Fine Flour
Authors: Martin Randall , Siliveru Kaliramesh , Watt Jason , Blodgett Paul , Alavi Sajid
Published: November 2022

Chickpeas and other high protein plants are becoming increasingly popular. Traditionally, attrition or hammer mills are used for milling chickpeas. However, the use of roller mills on chickpeas has not been extensively researched. This study compared pilot-scale milling trials involving whole Kabuli compared to split and de-hulled Desi chickpeas. A flow sheet was designed and optimized for meal production with minimal co-product flour produced. Milling yields, particle size, and proximate analysis data were recorded. The optimum flow sheet consisted of 4 break passages, 2 smooth roll passages, and 4 purifiers. Results showed whole Kabuli chickpeas had a higher meal yield, at 63.8%, than split Desi seeds, at 54.1%; with both percentages proportional to the weight of milled seed. The remaining 36.2% or 45.9% consisted of co-product flour, feed streams and process losses. Both meals had an average particle size between 600 and 850 microns and both flours had a bimodal particle size distribution with peaks at 53 and 90–150 microns. The use of purifiers facilitated better separation of hull and resulted in lower crude fiber levels in the Kabuli meal. Proximate analysis trends were similar for both chickpea meals with higher protein (~2% more), crude fiber (~1% more) and ash (0.1–0.3% more) in the meal compared to the co-product flour. The co-product flour had substantially higher total starch (~15% more) than the meal. The results of this research can be used to modify wheat mills to process chickpeas.
The Role of Islam in Peace and Development in Somalia (Continuity and Change)
Authors: Omar Yusuf Sheikh
Published: November 2022

Since 11 September 2001, Islam has been viewed as a threat to global stability rather than as a potential factor for peacebuilding and development. Therefore, most studies on Islam have been framed around security. Although research on the security threat posed by Islamist extremists is understandable, the main purpose of this study is to explore and give more attention to positive and continued contributions of Islamic faith to Somalia’s history and its current situation. To date, Islam has had an enormous constructive impact on Somali society at different stages of its history. It has strengthened peace capacity and development aspects such as literacy, socio-economic factors, justice, urbanisation, common identity and shared future aspirations, which have risen above clan divisions. In terms of methods, this study employs descriptive and analytical research methodologies. In conclusion, despite the current negative interpretation, activities, and actions attributed to the extremist Islamist groups in Somalia and beyond, Islam, on the other hand, has contributed enormously to civilising Somalis, shaping their common identity, nurturing a culture of peace, and improving social development. As it has been in the past, it maintains the potential to provide for Somalia’s future stability and prosperity.
Optimal Scheduling of Distributed Energy System for Home Energy Management System Based on Dynamic Coyote Search Algorithm
Authors: Li Chunbo , Dong Yuwei , Fu Xuelong , Zhang Yalan , Du Juan
Published: November 2022

Renewable and distributed power generation have been acknowledged as options for the safe, secure, sustainable, and cost-effective production, delivery, and consumption of energy in future low-carbon cities. This research introduces the Dynamic Coyote Search Algorithm (DCSA)-based optimal scheduling of distributed energy systems for home energy management systems. According to the heat storage properties of the building, a smart building energy model is established and introduced into the optimal scheduling of the distributed energy system in order to optimize the adjustment of the room temperature within the user’s acceptable room temperature range. The DCSA algorithm used is to minimize the daily comprehensive operating cost, including environmental factors. According to the simulation results, the impact of smart energy storage on scheduling is analyzed, and the results show that the optimal scheduling of building smart energy storage participating in the system reduces the total cost by about 3.8%. In addition, the DCSA has a significantly faster convergence speed than the original coyote algorithm.
Bilateral Optic Neuritis after COVID-19 Vaccination: A Case Report
Authors: Liu Ching-Chih , Lee Wan-Ju Annabelle
Published: November 2022

Background: Neuro-ophthalmic manifestations after vaccines are rare, with optic neuritis (ON) being the most common presentation. Patients with vaccine-related ON are similar to those with idiopathic ON. The temporal relationship between vaccination against and the occurrence of ON is vital. Here, we report a case of bilateral ON after the administration of the ChAdOx1-S nCoV-19 SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Case: A 49-year-old healthy Asian female presented with sudden onset of bilateral blurred vision within 2 days. She complained of photophobia and extraocular pain upon movement over 3 days. Upon examination, her best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/30 in the right eye and 20/200 in the left eye. Anterior segment findings were unremarkable, with normal intraocular pressure. Fundoscopic examination revealed bilateral disc edema with vessel engorgement. Visual field examination revealed profound visual field defect in both eyes. She denied any trauma, use of new medication or medical history. She had received the ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 SARS-CoV-2 vaccine 14 days prior. Under suspicion of vaccine-related optic neuritis, she was given intravenous methylprednisolone 1 gm/day for 3 days, shifting to oral prednisolone under gradual tapering for 2 weeks. Conclusions: Typically presenting with sudden-onset visual decline and extraocular pain during movement, acute ON is generally idiopathic. Bilateral ON is rare, but quick identification is important because it can potentially lead to permanent loss of vision if left untreated. Vaccination-induced ON is even rarer but not difficult to treat. However, such patients require further evaluation and long-term follow-up because they may be prone to other neurological disorders in the future.
Construcción y validación de la Escala de Miedo Generalizado para personas hispanohablantes
Authors: Da Silva Rodrigues Charles Ysaacc , Carvalho de Figueiredo Paula Alexandra
Published: November 2022

El miedo ha sido estudiado frente a la prevención del peligro. De allí que, el objetivo fue construir la Escala de Miedo Generalizado (EMG) para personas hispanohablantes, que se realizó a través de un diseño no experimental, transversal y de tipo instrumental, con la participación de 765 personas evaluados con los reactivos de la prueba. El análisis estadístico se realizó con base en un modelo de Análisis Factorial Exploratorio (AFE) y de Análisis Factorial Confirmatorio (AFC), así como el cálculo del alfa de Cronbach para obtener indicadores de consistencia interna, con un resultado de ? = .899 para la dimensión física, de ? = .877 para la dimensión social, de ? = .774 para la dimensión metafísica y de ? = .938 para la escala total. La EMG proporciona a la psicología aplicada una escala capaz de medir el miedo generalizado, sin la subjetividad de la observación o interpretación clínica.
atemporalidade da teoria social e política de Friedrich Engels
Authors: Cotrim Felipe
Published: November 2022

Resenha do livro BLACKLEDGE, Paul. Friedrich Engels and Modern Social and Political Theory. Albany: State University of New York Press, 2019. 278 p.
Sensibilidades e subjetividades na arte de partejar
Authors: Arthuane Maria
Published: November 2022

O presente artigo aborda memórias de mulheres a partir de setenta anos que conviveram com o antigo ofício de partos realizados por parteiras. As parteiras são personagens da história que merecem ter seus trabalhos e esforços contados por ampararem diversas mulheres ao longo dos anos. Partindo disso, nada melhor do que conhecer suas práticas a partir das memórias de mulheres assistidas e ajudadas por elas. Sendo assim, buscamos nesse artigo realizar uma análise de narrativas para que possamos compreender as técnicas e práticas desenvolvidas no ofício da parturição e problematizar as subjetividades dentro das relações femininas. A partir de entrevistas que foram apuradas em 2018, nas comunidades Salinas e São Bento, Piauí.
Memórias negras de Resende
Authors: De Oliveira Roseneia Terezinha
Published: November 2022

A ausência de registros sobre as histórias de vida e memórias das mulheres afrodescendentes na Historiografia da cidade de Resende/RJ, são uma realidade inegável que ficou comprovada em pesquisa realizada entre 2019 e 2022, no curso de Mestrado em Ensino de História na UFRRJ. Após a realização de pesquisas nos arquivos históricos do município, encontramos apenas no século XIX, notícias em jornais e periódicos sobre as escravas de ganho, suicídios de escravizadas e crimes por elas cometidos. Ao longo do século XX nenhum registro oficial sobre possíveis lideranças femininas afrodescendentes foi encontrado. A essa ausência, ou apagamento de registros de histórias de vidas e memórias de vidas podemos classificar como apagamento? Uma história situada sobre pessoas subalternizadas na história do Brasil e, como reflexo, na historiografia local. No contexto atual, como se encontra essa parcela importante da população local?