bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spiderman architecte
Authors: Bourdareau Pierre
Published: January 2022

En 2010, l’agence d’architecture R&Sie(n) exposait une « architecture des humeurs », produite et déterminée par les émotions de ses futurs habitants et sécrétée par une colonie de robots aux allures d’araignées. Par les relations manifestes qui s’exercent entre cette œuvre et le cinéma ou la littérature, nous nous proposons d’explorer les tensions fructueuses entre le pensable et le possible afin d’envisager ce que la fiction permet effectivement de construire.
Écriture épistolaire et éducation humaniste
Authors: Panzera Maria Cristina
Published: January 2022

L’essor de l’art épistolaire est l’un des aspects du renouveau culturel qui caractérise l’époque humaniste et renaissante. On connaît l’importance de la contribution apportée par Pétrarque à cette nouvelle valorisation de l’écriture épistolaire : nous étudions en particulier le thème de la gloire littéraire dans ses lettres familières par rapport au modèle de Cicéron (notamment le discours Pro Archia). L’enseignement humaniste a su traduire cet idéal intellectuel en un projet éducatif à part entière qui visait, par-delà les aspects rhétoriques de la communication épistolaire, la définition des liens interpersonnels et des codes de comportement en société.
La faculté des lettres de Bordeaux et la mise en place d’un nouvel enseignement supérieur à Bordeaux des années 1880 à l’entre-deux-guerres
Authors: Clavel Elsa
Published: January 2022

À partir des années 1880, l’enseignement supérieur en France connaît d’importantes mutations liées aux réformes de la Troisième République. La faculté des lettres de Bordeaux, au début du XXe siècle, permet d’observer ces changements qui touchent aux cursus, aux disciplines enseignées. L’humanisme et les humanités, hérités de l’époque moderne, s’y trouvent confronté à la démocratisation progressive de l’accès à l’éducation mais aussi aux changements structurels de la société française.
Determinants, risk factors and spatial analysis of multi-drug resistant pulmonary tuberculosis in Jodhpur, India
Authors: Ladha Nikhilesh , Bhardwaj Pankaj , Chauhan Nishant Kumar , KH Naveen , Nag Vijaya Lakshmi , Giribabu Dandabathula
Published: January 2022

This study was planned to estimate the proportion of confirmed multi-drug resistance pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) cases out of the presumptive cases referred to DTC (District Tuberculosis Center) Jodhpur for diagnosis; to identify clinical and socio-demographic risk factors associated with the multidrug-resistant pulmonary TB and to assess the spatial distribution to find out clustering and pattern in the distribution of pulmonary TB with the help of Geographic Information System (GIS). In the Jodhpur district, 150 confirmed pulmonary multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) cases, diagnosed by probe-based molecular drug susceptibility testing method and categorized as MDR in DTC's register (District Tuberculosis Center), were taken. Simultaneously, 300 control of confirmed non-MDR or drug-sensitive pulmonary TB patients were taken. Statistical analysis was done with logistic regression. In addition, for spatial analysis, secondary data from 2013-17 was analyzed using Global Moran's I and Getis and Ordi (Gi*) statistics. In 2012-18, a total of 12563 CBNAAT (Cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification test) were performed. 2898 (23%) showed M. TB positive but rifampicin sensitive, and 590 (4.7%) showed rifampicin resistant. Independent risk factors for MDR TB were ≤60 years age (AOR 3.0, CI 1.3-7.1); male gender (AOR 3.4, CI 1.8-6.7); overcrowding (AOR 1.6, CI 1.0-2.7); using chulha (smoke appliance) for cooking (AOR 2.5, CI 1.2-4.9), past TB treatment (AOR 5.7, CI 2.9-11.3) and past contact with MDR patient (AOR 10.7, CI 3.7-31.2). All four urban TUs (Tuberculosis Units) had the highest proportion of drug-resistant pulmonary TB. There was no statistically significant clustering, and the pattern of cases was primarily random. Most of the hotspots generated were present near the administrative boundaries of TUs, and the new ones mostly appeared in the area near the previous hotspots. A random pattern seen in cluster analysis supports the universal drug testing policy of India. Hotspot analysis helps cross administrative border initiatives with targeted active case finding and proper follow-up.
Growing Concern Over Rising Caesarean Section Rates
Authors: Umar Badar Uddin , Haque Mainul
Published: January 2022

The rising caesarean delivery rate is a global concern and is believed by many as a problem in low-income countries exclusively. It has been observed that utilisation of this lifesaving procedure is unusually high in many middle- and high-income countries. Caesarean section (CS) is indicated to save both the mother's and child's life in certain situations. When chosen in the proper indication, it is helpful towards reducing morbidity and mortality in both. There is a vast number of papers evidencing the injudicious use of this necessary procedure. There is an evident disparity in the utilisation of the process too. In some sub-Saharan African countries, women do not have access to or have very minimal access to caesarean delivery due to many factors. On the other hand, certain countries overutilise it. Being a South Asian country, Bangladesh is no different from many other countries, with rising caesarean delivery rates in rural and urban populations. It is of great concern for the Bangladeshi general community and the healthcare workers. There have been claims that it is overutilised injudiciously by the Bangladeshi health force. This review aims to find the facts related to the CSs and compare between the high-, middle- and low-income countries. Being healthcare professionals and medical educators by origin, the authors were explicitly interested in Bangladesh. They conducted the review to contribute to the development of the country's healthcare system.
Student-Centred Approach in Medical Education
Authors: Mohd Yusof Yasmin Anum , Taridi Nursiati Mohamad , Mustapa Marami , Shaharuddin Shazreen , Abdul Hamid Mohammad Wisman , Mohamed Shakrin Nik Noorul Shakira , Rahmat Frhana , Che Roos Nur Aishah , Ahmad Zaidi Nur Adnin , Lugova Halyna
Published: January 2022

The knowledge and the beliefs on medical education influence the teaching-learning approach used by medical educators and their perception of students' ability to be active learners. This paper highlights the student-centred teaching methods used by the medical educators of the Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, National Defence University of Malaysia for undergraduate medical student teaching, their medical education approach in teaching and their perception on students' performance.
The Effects of Clofibrate on Neonatal Jaundice
Authors: Eghbalian Fathemeh , Hasanpour-Dehkordi Ali , Raeisi Roya
Published: January 2022

Background:

Neonatal jaundice is a prevalent disease that causes many complications, including kernicterus and even death. Previous studies have shown that clofibrate as an aryloxy isobutyric acid derivate can be effectively applied for the treatment of neonatal jaundice. Thus, this review was carried out to investigate the effects and mechanism of action of clofibrate on neonatal jaundice.

Methods:

The keywords such as “Clofibrate” in combination with “Neonatal jaundice” or “Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia” or “Newborn Jaundice” were used to search for relevant publications indexed in the Institute for Scientific Information (ISI), Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar databases. Finally, after reviewing the studies, 24 papers were included in this study.

Results:

Results showed that the processes of albumin-bound bilirubin transfer to the hepatocytes, hepatic uptake, and storage via ligandin, hepatic conjugation via uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase 1A1 (UGT1A1), conjugation into the bile via MRP2 represent the main action mechanism of clofibrate that turns it into the bilirubin conjugates and expels it from the bile. Besides, clofibrate has been shown to reduce the level of Total Serum Bilirubin (TSB) in infants even at a dosage of 25 mg/kg without leaving side effects.

Conclusions:

The results of this review revealed that clofibrate effectively reduces TSB in short-term usage and can even have a promising effect at the dosage of 25 mg/kg in full-term infants. Most studies have shown this property over a short period in term infants, and there is no evidence about long-term usage in this regard.
Prospective Evaluation of Radiocephalic Arteriovenous Fistula to Determine the Causes for Non Maturity with Clinical and Ultrasonography-Doppler
Authors: Bhuwania Sameer , Goel Rajesh , Bansal Ravi , Saxena Sanjiv
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

The RC-AVF is the most important tool for hemodialysis considered to be the life line of patients. In our study, we have tried to find the incidence of AVF non maturation and the physical and ultrasonological parameter which can predict its non maturation.

Materials and Methods:

Radio-cephalic AVF surgery was done taking into account the inclusion and exclusion criteria with a follow up period of 6 weeks. The cases were evaluated pre-operatively and post-operatively using clinical and DUS.

Results:

91 cases were studied with a success surgical outcome in 54.9% (50) of patients. The mean age of 46.04 yrs, male sex and less diabetes (46%) was associated with a matured RC-AVF surgical outcome. Mean preoperative artery diameter of > 0.21 ± 0.04 cm and vein diameter of > 0.20 ± 0.03 cm was seen in the matured cases. Incremental test and Resistive index was normal in 62% and 80% of the matured cases respectively, while calcification of feeding artery was associated with poor outcome. Further Clinical examination showed sensitivity 88% and specificity 95% whereas Doppler studies showed a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 92.6% to successfully diagnose matured cases. Thrombosis (51%) was the most common cause of AVF failure followed by juxta anastomosis stenosis (14%).

Conclusion:

In this study we found that a thorough pre-operative evaluation of the vessels of RC-AVF can predict its maturation. Also a regular follow-up and use of clinical and imaging studies can help diagnose and timely salvage a failing AVF.
Polymorphous adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jawanda Manveen Kaur , Narula Ravi , Gupta Sonia , Gupta Priya
Published: January 2022

Polymorphous adenocarcinoma (PAC) is an uncommon tumor that affects minor salivary glands mainly. It presents as an indolent malignancy that frequently manifests as an asymptomatic, slow-growing mass within the oral cavity, especially palate and its clinical behavior resembles that of benign neoplasm, often causing delay in the diagnosis. Here, we report a rare case of PAC of palate in a 49-year-old female patient along with a concise review of characteristics of PAC and highlight diagnostic challenges caused by the overlap of clinical and microscopic features between PAC, pleomorphic adenoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma.
An oral pathologist's tryst with COVID 19
Authors: Indu Sudip
Published: January 2022

Ever since the COVID 19 pandemic struck our nation and started to cripple our health care infrastructure around the world, a considerable number of research was directed toward the development of the COVID Vaccine. However, when it finally came into our medical infrastructure, people were skeptical about taking the vaccine because of the considerable confusion on its efficacy and adverse effects. An attempt has been made through this communication to narrate my personal experience; My journey from First Infection to Vaccination finally culminating with COVID Reinfection, lessons learnt!!
Validation of demirjian's 8-teeth method of age estimation in the population of Bengaluru
Authors: Shivakumar Boraiah , Arunakshi  , Niveditha  , Shivaprasad  , Manjuprasad
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

Demirjian's method of dental age assessment estimates the overall dental age by scoring based on the stage of tooth formation, using panoramic radiographs. This method was primarily based on data acquired from individuals of French-Canadian origin. It has since been applied and modified for the Indian population. Therefore, the aim of the present study is to assess the reliability of the Indian formula in the population of Bengaluru.

Materials and Methods:

Dental maturity of 297 subjects between 9 and 17 years was assessed using the India-specific formula of Demirjian et al.'s 8-teeth method and the chronological age of each subject was calculated. Pearson's correlation, Independent student test/Mann–Whitney test and Chi-square test were used for statistical analysis of the results obtained.

Results and Discussion:

A very strong correlation (P < 0.001) between the chronological and estimated age by Demirjian's method was obtained. The mean absolute error among the total samples was not significant and majority of the error in the estimated age was <1 year in males and females, indicating that the India specific formula gave nearly accurate estimation of the chronological age of the sample subjects.

Conclusion:

Demirjian's Indian formula is relaible in the population of Bengaluru
Post coronavirus disease mucormycosis involving the mandible
Authors: Bhanumurthy Lokesh , Krishna P Sai , Sekhar Prasanna , Makesh Raj L S
Published: January 2022

Mucormycosis also termed as phycomycosis or zygomycosis is less commonly seen in oral cavity. However, it is an invasive, life-threatening and aggressive fungal infection. It mostly targets individuals with altered immunological system and diabetes. In this recent pandemic situation, the individuals affected with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are also affected with this fungal infection which commonly involves the maxilla. In this case report, we present a case of a 45-year-old female affected with mucormycosis in post-COVID scenario involving mandible which is quite rare situation. The case report covers clinical findings, radiographic investigations and histopathological details with brief on literature review. Since mucormycosis is aggressive fungal infection, it should be handled with multimodal approach to reduce the systemic damage of an individual, morbidity and mortality.
Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Santhosh Manikandan V. Jai , Krishna P. Sai , Makesh Raj L. S. , Sekhar Prasanna
Published: January 2022

Basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (BSCC) is a rare variant of squamous cell carcinoma characterized by a conglomerate of clinically aggressive course and disparate histopathological features. It is frequently seen in upper aerodigestive tract area. Histopathologically, it is biphasic and composed of two types of tumor cells, namely basaloid and squamous cells. Tumor markers, namely, BerEp4, epithelial membrane antigen and p53 are used in this case to differentiate from similar tumors which impersonate BSCC histologically but differ prognostically. We report a case of BSCC in a 48-year-old female patient, involving the lateral border of the tongue with an exhaustive picture of its histological and immunohistochemical appearance.
Knowledge and attitude of dental students toward hepatitis B virus and its vaccination – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Benarji Kotti Ajay , Anitha Akkaloori , Suresh Babburi , Aparna V , Praveena A , Penumatsa Laxmi Aparna
Published: January 2022

Objectives:

To estimate the awareness of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and coverage of hepatitis B vaccination among dental students enrolled in dental colleges located in Andhra Pradesh.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a prestructured questionnaire to find out the awareness of HBV and coverage of hepatitis B vaccine among dental students.

Results:

A total of 2780 dental students were approached to participate in the study but only 2701 (97.1%) students (M = 900, F = 1801) gave response. Out of the total 2701 students, 79.45% were aware of HBV infection and only 51.50% of the participants received hepatitis B vaccine. 20.5% have come across HBV infected patients and 59.5% are unaware of postexposure protocol. Of all, 63.9%, 21.5% and 42% felt the mode of transmission is blood, sexual contact and oral fluids, respectively. 49.12% recommended for awareness programs on risks in HBV; 56.46% suggested mandatory Hepatitis B vaccination programs in dental colleges.

Conclusions:

Despite the availability and accessibility of a cost-effective hepatitis B vaccine, the vaccination coverage among dental students was low. Health education needs to be improved for all health care students especially for dental students.
Immunohistochemistry
Authors: Hegde Usha , Sheshanna Sreeshyla Huchanahalli , Doddawad Vidya Gowdappa , Nitin Priyanka
Published: January 2022

Myofibroma is a benign tumor of myofibroblasts occurring commonly in infants and children. It can occur as a solitary lesion or as multiple lesions in the soft tissues or intraosseously. The presence of the solitary lesion is common in the soft tissues of the head-and-neck region but rare in jawbones. Histologically, it has a biphasic pattern of presentation and mimics spindle cell tumors. Immunohistochemistry is essential for its confirmatory diagnosis. This article describes a case of this rare lesion presenting as a solitary lesion in the left body of the mandible in a 7-month-old boy baby. The diagnostic and therapeutic challenges have been discussed.
Effect of 2 h of room temperature storage on salivary glucose concentration
Authors: Vasupradha G , Sankar K , Rajendran Ramya , Nitya K , Murugaboopathy Vikneshan , Pallavan B
Published: January 2022

Background of the Study:

Although many studies are available validating the role of saliva as an alternative diagnostic tool, no reliable data are available on the duration of time, a salivary sample can be reliably stored at room temperature for estimation. It varies from one analyte to another and has to be researched.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of 2 h of room temperature storage on salivary glucose concentration.

Materials and Methods:

Saliva samples obtained by spitting method from thirty healthy volunteers were centrifuged and glucose concentration determined in the supernatant obtained. The test was repeated 2 h later following room temperature storage of the supernatant.

Results:

The data obtained were analyzed using wilcoxson signed rank test. No significant difference between was observed between the two values.

Conclusion:

Salivary glucose can reliably estimate on centrifuged samples following 2 h of room temperature storage.
Inter-observer agreement in the radiographic interpretation of Demirjian's developmental stages in the mandibular second and third molars – A comparative study
Authors: Pillai Jayasankar P. , Nilendu Debesh , Thomas Namitha , Nagpal Sugandha , Sneha Nedunari Lakshmi Sai
Published: January 2022

Background:

The developmental stages of the teeth in the radiographs are graded on an ordinal scale. The present study was conducted using 123 digital orthopantomograms from individuals in the age group of 5 to 22 years and to analyze and evaluate the inter-observer agreement in grading the developmental stages of second and third molars. Four observers with different levels of practical experience in age estimation participated in the study. The development stages of both the molars in the lower left quadrant (3rd quadrant) were assigned based on the Demirjian's 10 stage chart. The percentage agreement and Kappa statistics were used to test the agreement between the observers. The data of the observer 1 were used as the standard for the comparison.

RESULTS:

There was 70.0%–75.6% agreement among the observers in staging second molar and 52%–68.3% for the third molars. There was an excellent agreement (k > 080) between observer 1 and observer 2 and a good agreement (k = 060–0.79) between observer 1 and the other two observers for both the molars. The Fleiss Kappa revealed moderate to a good overall agreement for both the molars (k = 0.51–0.66). The Freidman's test revealed a significant difference in the grading of third molars between all the raters (χ2= 25.02, df 3, P < 0.001) and for the second molar the difference was not significant (χ2= 3.89, df 3, P > 0.05). The stage-wise overall agreement was fair for Stage 3 in the second molar and Stage 9 and Stage 4 in the third molar.

Conclusions:

In conclusion, proper training in the radiographic interpretation of developmental stages may minimize the errors during the age estimation methods.
Role of programmed cell death 4 in myofibroblast differentiation in oral submucous fibrosis
Authors: Desai Karishma Madhusudan , Kale Alka Dinesh , Angadi Punnya V , Datar Uma V , Belaldavar Chetan , Arany Praveen R
Published: January 2022

Background:

Fibrosis is an uncontrolled healing process, led by persistent differentiation of fibroblast to alpha-smooth muscle actin (αSMA) positive activated fibroblast or myofibroblast. Oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) is one such condition that is associated with areca nut use. Recently, Programmed Cell Death 4 (PDCD4), a pro-apoptotic marker, has been shown to modulate fibroblast differentiation in various organ fibrosis. The present study aimed to evaluate the role of PDCD4 in the regulation of fibroblast differentiation in OSMF.

Materials and Methods:

Paraffin-embedded tissue sections from 45 cases of the normal oral mucosa, early OSMF and advanced OSMF were examined for PDCD4 and αSMA expression by immunostaining. Co-expression of PDCD4 and αSMA in fibroblasts was examined using Spearman's correlation test.

Results:

The stromal fibroblasts showed minimal expression of αSMA in the normal mucosa and early OSMF, while advanced OSMF groups demonstrated a higher frequency of αSMA myofibroblasts. The PDCD4 expression was noted in the normal stromal fibroblasts. However, this expression appeared to progressively reduce with an increasing grade of OSMF. Thus, a negative correlation was noted between stromal PDCD4 and αSMA expression with progressive OSMF.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated a putative role for PDCD4 in oral fibrosis consistent with its role in other tissues. The lack of PDCD4 expression with increasing myofibroblast expression in OSMF suggests that targeting its dysregulation may be an attractive translational therapeutic target.
Challenges of Accessing Care in Art Clinic during COVID-19 Lockdown in Lagos
Authors: Salako AO , Odubela OO , Ohwodo HO , Opaneye B , Ojuko SO , Nwankwo NL , Ejiga QE , David AN , Ezechi OC , Salako BL
Published: January 2022

Background:

As the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic continues to ravage the world, its impact on the health systems and survival of people with chronic diseases especially People living with HIV [PLWH] could be undermined. It becomes relevant to assess the challenges PLWH face during this period to institute measures towards combating the negative effects of the pandemic.

Aims:

This study aims to investigate the challenges faced by PLWH in accessing care during the lockdown period in Lagos, Nigeria. The study was a cross-sectional one involving PLWH aged 18 years and above who presented for care. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain information on demographic characteristics, their knowledge about COVID-19 disease, and challenges experienced in accessing care during the COVID-19-induced lockdown. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institution Research Ethics Board (IRB) of NIMR.

Patients and Methods:

Data generated from the survey was exported to Excel and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0.

Results:

The mean age of PLWH who participated in the study was 42.2 (±12.2) years. The majority were female (74.3%), married (66.3%), employed (58.9%), and on less than $100 monthly income (80.5%). The commonest challenges experienced were psychological (78.5%), financial (68%) and food (40.7%). There were significant association among the income status, lack of food (OR: 2.5, CI: 1.4-4.5, P = 0.002), financial challenges (OR: 1.7, CI: 1.0-3.0, P = 0.048) and psychological challenges (OR; 1.8, CI: 1.0-3.5, P = 0.05). Ninety-five percent of participants believed SARS-COV-2 infection is a viral infection.

Conclusions:

PLWH faces a myriad of challenges that would have a significant impact on their overall well-being and the gains of HIV care.
Use of Diode Laser for Lip Repositioning, Evolution of the Conventional Technique. A Case Report
Authors: Martínez-Martínez A , Molinares-Villa C , Diaz-Caballero A
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

LipStaT® lip repositioning surgery using a diode laser for the management of gummy smiles offers promising and consistent long-term results.

Objective:

To describe the technique through a clinical case, including its indications, preoperative evaluation, surgical approach, and recommendations after the intervention.

Case Report:

A 29-year-old woman with excessive gingival display (EGD) of 4 mm when smiling; the LipStaT® technique was performed with a 940 nm diode laser to remove a strip of mucosa by ablating the epithelial tissue, and thus, achieve aesthetic, harmonic and functional results. The inflammation and postoperative pain were treated with the diode laser assisted lymphatic drainage technique. After follow-up, a satisfactory tissue response was observed, and no pain or inflammation was reported.

Conclusion:

The use of a 940 nm diode laser proved to be an effective treatment option for patients with a gummy smile, allowing control of intraoperative bleeding and improvement of the healing process obtaining predictable long-term results.
COVID-19, Digital Tracking Control and Chinese Cosmotechnology
Authors: Rošker Jana S.
Published: January 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has opened our eyes to numerous global problems that can only be solved on a global scale. Especially in light of the good performance of the Sinic region in containing and eliminating the coronavirus, the importance of intercultural dialogue between East and West became even more evident. In this context, this paper explores the role of digital technologies and the underlying ontology of digital objects in China as well as in the wider Sinic region. Indeed, the third millennium, which has just begun and will witness the accelerating trends of global warming and most likely the deepening of the gap between rich and poor, numerous wars, and new pandemics, will certainly be marked by the development of digital technologies. Therefore, the paper investigates the specific features of traditional Sinic perceptions of technology as such, as well as their ideational underpinnings, which certainly influence specific Sinic perceptions of digital objects. This will, I hope, provide us with a better understanding of the cultural conditionality of differences and commonalities in the global processes of digitalization and their ontological underpinnings, so that we can pay more attention to both the dangers and the opportunities that cross-cultural interactions in this area can offer us.
The Motherboard of Myriad Things
Authors: Wheeler Billy
Published: January 2022

Machines, instruments and tools offer many benefits, but according to the classical Daoists—Laozi and Zhuangzi—they can also interfere with living a life in harmony with nature. Despite this, the Zhuangzi offers numerous stories of individuals who use technologies whilst exemplifying the virtues of a sage, although how this is achieved is not well understood. I examine two recent interpretations and argue that they are problematic on both philosophical and interpretative grounds. In their place I offer a new solution based on comparing Zhuangzi with recent studies of the effects of the internet on the way we think.
The Relationless Japanese Society and the Practices of Belonging during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Delakorda Kawashima Tinka
Published: January 2022

The aging of the population, lonely deaths (kadokushi), single-member households, and weak local bonds have been given as signs that Japan is now a “relationless society”, or muen shakai. The term muen shakai has been used by the media to describe a society in which social isolation is intensified because of the lack of connection between immediate family members, more distant relatives, and local community. On the other hand, some sociological and religious studies on Japanese society have shown that it is precisely this social isolation that awakens the need for networking, and even excessive networking. This article studies what types of social relations became highlighted under the new conditions of recommended social isolation due to COVID-19. The Japanese government did not explicitly forbid and sanction socializing, leaving the responsibility and duty for common health to individuals as well as members of groups. It seems that the way in which Japanese society has fought COVID-19 largely depends on existing interpersonal ties and belonging to certain groups and communities. I look at sociocultural factors in social relations in Japan, to examine whether the ties and belonging to groups and communities, which has been more to the fore during COVID-19, is something new in the society or existed preceding the pandemic.
Ghanaian banking crisis of 2017-2019 and related party transactions
Authors: Aboagye Anthony Q. Q.
Published: January 2022

Early in 2017, a new management team took over the helm of affairs at the central bank of Ghana. Preliminary evidence available to them suggested that a number of banks were distressed. Further investigation by them revealed that poor corporate governance, false financial reporting, and insider dealings were major contributory factors to the poor state of affairs that they found. The central bank then engaged the banks in question to try to rectify the situation. Unfortunately, things did not work out. Subsequently, over the course of sixteen-months, the banking licenses of nine banks out of 35 were withdrawn. This paper focuses on the role insider and related party transactions (RPTs) played in what has been referred to as Ghana's banking crisis and presents details of the extent to which affected banks engaged in RPTs, possibly in a quest to seek rents. Content analysis of the central banks allegations against affected banks suggests that being members of conglomerate groups pre-disposed banks to rentseeking related party transactions. To forestall such activities, it is recommended that banks should not be allowed to belong to conglomerate groups. Also, entities with controlling interests in non-regulated firms should not be allowed to gain controlling interests in banks. Further, the central bank should be extra vigilant in carrying out its risk-based supervisory responsibilities. Finally, Ghana should consider adopting the twin peaks approach to regulating her financial system.
Why Fidelity Bank survived the banking crises in Ghana, but UT Bank collapsed: an explanation from strategic management
Authors: Damoah Obi Berko O. , Amankwah Majoreen Osafroadu , Bennis Robert Marshall
Published: January 2022

The question of why some firms succeed whilst others fail even though they operate in the same industry, have similar sizes and face the same market conditions continue to attract research attention. Strategic management addresses this question in part and contends that the explanatory factors for such phenomenon is accounted for by how firms strategically align their internal capacity to the changing trends from their external environment especially political and competitive forces. The paper draws on two strategic management frameworks (i.e., PESTLE and Porter's five forces) to explain why Fidelity survived, but UT failed in the recent environmental turbulence which bedeviled the banking sector of Ghana though both started just about the same time and had similar size. In line with the assumptions of the two frameworks above, the present paper argues that the failure of UT bank and the survival of Fidelity Bank is accounted for by how each bank aligned its internal capacity to the regulatory and competitive forces that hit the banking industry. The paper employs secondary information (e.g., financial reports, web materials, newspaper articles), coupled with the PESTLE and Porter's five forces frameworks to explain the issue. The findings are that whilst the internal capacity of Fidelity Bank (e.g., its capital adequacy) was aligned to the regulatory demands of the Bank of Ghana, UT's internal conditions were so fragile that they failed to satisfy the regulator's demands in the deregulation. Following from the results of the study,  implications on theory, practice and public policy are suggested.
Development infancy: explaining unsecured environments to large-scale industries in Nigeria from the frustrated-aggression theory perspectives
Authors: Adekeye Shade Deborah , Adeleke Fatai Gbadebo , Adeyemi Sunday Omolade , Adeleke Elizabeth Habibat
Published: January 2022

This paper examines security challenges on largescale industries toward achieving industrial development in Nigeria. This study does this within the framework of the frustration- aggression theory. Triangulation of sampling techniques (purposive, simple random, key informant) and methods (Focus Group Discussions, In-depth Interviews) of data collection were adopted. The paper identified extreme level of insecurity as an impediment to large-scale industrial growth. Unsecured environment arose from overconcentration of industries, weak governmental institutions and total neglect of indigenes on basic social amenities by the government and industrialists. The findings revealed over-exploitation of host-community resources and poor employment policies which triggered anger of many frustrated unemployed youths. Unsecured environment hindered economic expansion, created unpleasant political interferences that led to poor interpersonal relationship between the indigenes and industrialists, and ill-social effects. These effects led to the shortage of manpower, untimely and unnatural deaths of industrialists' and companies' owners. Also, there were short business plans by the industrialists, various courts' embargo on communal and family lands, diversification of compensation by government institutions and low patronage of investors on large-scale industries. There is a need for communal policing, effective communities welfare policies to cement the relationship between the companies and their host communities.
Succession planning, employee retention and career development programmes in selected organisations in Ghana
Authors: Tetteh Jonathan , Asumeng Maxwell Amoah
Published: January 2022

This paper examined the relationship between succession planning and employee retention, as well as the moderating role of career development program on the relationship between succession planning and employee retention. Using the cross-sectional design, 188 employees were conveniently sampled from four corporate organisations in Ghana to complete questionnaires on succession planning, employee retention and career development. The Hierarchical Multiple Regression was used to test the hypotheses. The results indicated that succession planning significantly predicted employee retention. Career development programmes also moderated the relationship. The results suggest that, the influence of succession planning on employee retention was moderated by career development programmes, such that, succession planning has more significant influence on employee retention when career development programmes are high rather than low. The study recommends the need for managers to develop strategic innovation in career development programmes to train and develop employees to enhance succession planning and employee retention in their organisations.
Assessment on the Use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) For Teaching And Learning In Arabic Secondary Schools (Case Study: Kano State, Nigeria)
Authors: Ahmed Mustapha Abubakar , Datti Ahmad Abba , Abdulkadir Zainab Ya’u
Published: January 2022

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has changed the world entirely. These change span across all sectors, ranging from transportation, economic, health, military, banking, education, to mention a few. The rise of communication technologies has provoked great interest in the way in which they can be applied in education to improve its efficiency and effectiveness. This study aimed at determining the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) for teaching and learning in Arabic Secondary Schools in Kano State, Nigeria. The study focused on six (6) Arabic Secondary Schools in Kano Municipal, among the schools are: School for Arabic Studies Kano (SAS), Government Arabic College Gwale (GAC Gwale), Abdullahi Bayero College of Qur’an, UmmuWarqa Government Girls Arabic School, Hasiya Bayero Government Girls Arabic School and Balarabe Haladu Government Arabic School Kano. A survey research design method was adopted to conduct the study. The population used for the study consisted of the teachers and students from the six Arabic schools. Two different questionnaires were designed and distributed among the teachers and their students. The first questionnaire is for the students which consist of four sections and the second questionnaire is for the teachers which are under six sections, two hundred samples are used in each case. The findings showed that 26% of the teachers are using ICT applications for teaching and learning, while 74% of the teachers are not using ICT tools for teaching and learning. On the other hand, 34% of the students are using ICT applications for teaching and learning, while 66% of the students are not using ICT tools for teaching and learning

Keywords: Arabic, Qur’an, Secondary, School, Information Communication Technology,
Liver Function and Lipid Profile in adult Men in Eastern Zone of Kogi State, Nigeria
Authors: Yahaya Zainab , Adam Adam Abdullahi , Mahe Asma’u , Onyechi Obidoa , Momoh Sanni
Published: January 2022

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) are enzymes found mainly in the liver. When the liver is diseased or damaged, additional aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase are released into the blood stream, causing the levels of the enzymes to rise. Therefore, the amount of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase in the blood is directly related to the extent of the tissue damage. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) in mammals is found mainly in the liver. Increase in serum alkaline phosphatase level is associated with malignant biliary obstruction, primary biliary cirrhosis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, hepatic lymphoma and sarcoidosis. Cholesterol is component of plasma membranes. Triglycerides are found in adipose tissue, some triglycerides are stored in the blood to provide fuel for the muscles. This work was aimed at providing information on the values of liver function indices and lipid profile in apparently healthy ageing men residing within Kogi Eastern zone of Nigeria. This is as a result of the curiosity to know and make comparison between their parameters with those of the standard/reference or normal laboratory values. The subjects were divided into different groups 25 – 75 years and the mean and standard deviation of each parameter was calculated. Test for Liver function and lipid profile were carried out to determine the level of alkaline phosphatase, AST, ALT, TG, LDL, HDL and VLDL. There was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the alkaline phosphatase of group 6 (75 years and above) when compared to the standard while the AST and ALT showed no significant difference. The lipid profile showed no significant difference as they were in tandem with the reference values.

Keywords: Low Density Lipoprotein, High Density Lipoprotein, Triacylglycerides, Very Low Density Lipoprotein, Aspartate Aminotransferase, Alanine Aminotransferase
Community Participation as Power Distribution: Insight into Law and Practice in Sheka Forests Conservation
Authors: Degoma Samuel Yohanis , Feyissa Tegbaru Terefe
Published: January 2022

Community participation is a pillar principle in democratic decision-making processes. It is redistribution of power among public institutions, officials and people. With regard to forest conservation, Ethiopian laws and practices in Sheka Zone were examined by using Sherry Arnstein’s model of citizen participation. We argue that community participation recognized in the FDRE Constitution falls under the fifth rung of the ladder of citizen participation: placation. In pursuits of forest conservation, the right of citizens to have their views and opinion be taken into account is not guaranteed. The practice in Sheka Zone ignores the role of community participation, and it does not go beyond the rung of informing. This rung is a stunted one-way communication, and the community members in the Sheka Zone were simply informed about what is planned. Qualitative methodology is employed including legal analysis and literature review with some data collected through interviews, FGD and observation.
Conspicuous Absence of Independent Judiciary and ‘Apolitical’ Courts in Modern Ethiopia
Authors: Assefa Simeneh Kiros
Published: January 2022

Ethiopia had revolutions in 1974 and 1991, after which the Provisional Military Administration Council (‘PMAC’) and Ethiopian Peoples’ Revolutionary Democratic Front (‘EPRDF’) governments came to power, respectively. Each incoming government re-established and re-structured the courts. Likewise, criminal jurisdictions of the courts and the rules of appointment of judges and court personnel were changed. Yet, the governments presented the courts as independent, insulated from political interference. After examining the respective legislation and the decisions of two sets of courts, I argue that Ethiopia never had an independent judiciary; there were courts established for dispute settlement for the ordinary citizen. The courts were not as apolitical as claimed by the respective governments. They have been, often, compliant with the interests of the regime of the day by giving effect to the executive’s excesses of power or by creating enabling conditions, as though they were extension of the executive.
MiR-423-5p downregulates osteoblastic differentiation and cell viability by targeting SMAD3 in non-traumatic osteonecrosis
Authors: Zheng Ju , Yan Xuegang , Zeng Yun
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the potential role of miR-423-5p in osteoblastic differentiation of non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).

Methods: MiR-423-5p levels in bone marrow samples from ONFH and osteoarthritis (OA) patients, respectively, were evaluated using quantitative (real-time) polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Osteoblastic differentiation was monitored using Alizarin red S staining, while cell viability was determined by MTT assay in hMSC-BM. MiR-423-5p expression was also measured during osteoblastic differentiation. The underlying mechanisms were explored using TargetScan database, and a series of in vitro experiments was performed to confirm this.

Results: MiR-423-5p levels were significantly upregulated in ONFH samples (p < 0.01) and miR-423-5p expression significantly increased in human mesenchymal stem cells-bone marrow (hMSC-BM) after bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) treatment. Furthermore, miR-423-5p downregulated osteoblastic differentiation and suppressed cell viability. Furthermore, SMAD3 was observed to be a downstream target of miR-423-5p via bioinformatics analysis; further in vitro experiments confirmed this.

Conclusion: MiR-423-5p downregulates osteoblastic differentiation and cell viability by targeting SMAD3 in non-traumatic osteonecrosis. Thus, MiR-423-5p may serve as a potential target for promoting osteoblastic differentiation in ONFH patients.
Aspirin-aromatic amino acid conjugates as selective Cox-2 inhibitors: A docking study
Authors: Jasim Mahmood H.M. , Abed Mohammed N. , Qazzaz Mohannad E. , Alfahad Mohanad , Alassaf Fawaz A.
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To examine eight compounds in which aspirin was conjugated with aromatic amino acids virtually using docking studies for their ability to inhibit cyclooxygenase 2 (Cox-2) enzyme.

Methods: The compounds were drawn, energy minimised and then docked into the active site of Cox-2 along with celecoxib for comparison using GOLD docking program.

Results: Five of the designed compounds docked into the active site with a bent conformation producing a pose similar to that of celecoxib, with the aromatic amino acid moiety facing the outside of the active site. The interactions were mainly hydrophobic with some hydrogen bonds formed between the compounds and the key residues in the active site. Although the obtained scores were less than that of celecoxib, they were the top ranked poses in the solutions generated for each compound.

Conclusion: The conjugation of aspirin with amino acids may offer a potential for the development of selective, but safe, Cox-2 inhibitors.
MiR-483-3p exacerbates pediatric pneumonia by suppressing IGF1 expression in alveolar macrophage
Authors: Feng Jie , Tang Jingjing , Liu Pingping , Zhang Xiaolan
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To investigate the action of miR-483-3p in pediatric pneumonia and identify potential biomarkers.

Methods: Bronchoalveolar lavage was collected from 38 pneumonia patients and 25 healthy children. The expression of miR-483-3p in the lavage was determined using qRT-PCR. Alveolar macrophages collected from lavage of healthy children were cultured and used for functional assays. Transwell assay was conducted to evaluate macrophage cell migration. Cell viability and apoptosis were evaluated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells (HPAEpiCs) by CCK8 (cell counting kit - 8) or flow cytometry, respectively.

Results: MiR-483-3p was significantly elevated in bronchoalveolar lavage of pneumonia patients, when compared to healthy children (p < 0.001). MiR-483-3p, which targets insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1), decreased the mRNA and protein expression of IGF1 in alveolar macrophages collected from the lavage of healthy children. MiR-483-3p reduced motility of macrophages. IGF1 counteracted the LPS- induced decrease in cell viability and the increase in apoptosis of HPAEpiCs. Conditioned medium from macrophages transfected with miR-483-3p inhibitor increased cell viability and reduced cellular apoptosis of LPS-induced HPAEpiCs. However, conditioned medium from macrophages transfected with miR-483-3p mimics decreased cell viability and increased apoptosis.

Conclusion: MiR-483-3p negatively regulates IGF1 to promote progression of pediatric pneumonia, providing a potential therapeutic target in pediatric pneumonia.
Effect of CBX4/miR-137/Notch1 signaling axis on the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells
Authors: Ma Le , Zheng Lihua , Zhang Dongmei , Fan Zhimin
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To study the effect of CBX4/miR-137/Notch1 signaling axis on the migration and proliferative capacity of breast cancer.

Methods: Breast cancer MCF7 cell lines were cultured in vitro and transfected with CBX4- overexpressed plasmid and interfering plasmid, which served as CBX4 over-expressing group and CBX4 interfering group, respectively. A control group (blank plasmid transfection) was set up. The MCF7 cells were transfected with miR-137 over-expressed plasmid, miR-137 interfering plasmid and Notch1 interfering plasmid, which served as miR-137 over-expressing, miR-137 interference and Notch1 interference groups, respectively. Cell proliferation and migration capacity were determined with methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium (MTT) method and Transwell migration assay, respectively, while reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and immunoblotting were used to assay related gene expressions.

Results: Cell migration in CBX4 over-expressing group was significantly raised (p < 0.05). The expression of miR-137 in CBX4 over-expressing group was markedly decreased (p < 0.05). Compared with the control group, mRNA and protein expressions of Notch1 (NICD), Hey2 and Jag1 in miR-137 over-expressing cells were increased in the miR-137 interfering group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: CBX4 level is increased in mammary cancer cells. Moreover, CBX4 enhances cell proliferation and migration through induction of Notch1 signaling route by inhibiting miR-137 expression. These findings provide a new strategy for clinical therapy of mammary cancer.