bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Huella hídrica en el proceso constructivo como indicador de sostenibilidad: un estudio de caso para Costa Rica
Authors: Mora-González Alejandro , Cruz-Zuñiga Nidia
Published: April 2024

El objetivo principal de la investigación fue determinar la factibilidad de utilizar la Huella Hídrica (HH) como indicador ambiental en el sector constructivo, para lo cual se realizó una cuantificación en campo de este indicador en cuatro proyectos residenciales de vivienda unifamiliar seleccionados en el Gran Área Metropolitana de Costa Rica, viendo la construcción como un proceso productivo, y analizando los resultados por actividad y de forma global. Se calculó la huella azul directa en el proceso constructivo mediante mediciones en campo, realizando inspecciones semanales a cada proyecto, así se asignó un consumo de agua por actividad según el avance que se observó. Se estimó la huella hídrica indirecta (azul y verde) para los materiales, basándose en una serie de datos de uso de agua en la producción, consultados de las declaraciones ambientales disponibles de cada producto. Debido a la falta de datos disponibles en el contexto nacional, no se pudo estimar la HH gris. Se concluye que los resultados obtenidos podrían ser considerados como un primer avance del cálculo de la HH en la construcción. Para lograr un estándar a nivel nacional se requiere incentivar a los productores locales o importadores a desarrollar declaraciones ambientales de producto de los materiales de construcción y así generar una base de datos robusta sobre el consumo de agua en el proceso productivo de estos. Además, se requiere mejorar las prácticas de uso directo del agua en la construcción y la cuantificación del consumo como indicador de eficiencia de potenciales ahorros de agua.
Diseño de sistema para la deposición de una feromona ferromagnética desde un robot móvil para robótica de enjambres
Authors: Monge-Chaves Daniel , Brenes-Torres Juan Carlos , Calderón-Arce Cindy
Published: April 2024

En este artículo se muestra el diseño, la implementación y validación de un sistema de deposición de una feromona ferromagnética. El trabajo surge de la necesidad de implementar un método de comunicación bio inspirado, como lo son las feromonas, en un enjambre de robots móviles. Esto para lograr un comportamiento colectivo coordinado por medio de la interacción entre diversos robots. El sistema diseñado logra la deposición de gotas de feromona de 6mm de diámetro con un error del 1.5% y con un tiempo de magnetización de hasta 30 minutos, a través de un robot denominado Robotino.
El amor, el cosmos y el mar enfurecido: la ecopoética surrealista de César Moro
Authors: Favaron Pedro
Published: April 2024

En la poesía de César Moro es rastreable un permanente intento de comunión cósmica y de rescate de la videncia mítica que caracterizó la ritualidad y la relación con la naturaleza de las antiguas culturas amerindias del Perú. Este artículo dará cuenta de estas tendencias en la obra del poeta surrealista peruano mediante la interpretación de algunos de sus poemas en prosa, específicamente los que están agrupados bajo el título de Cartas (1939), y “Biografía peruana”, que hace parte del libro Los anteojos de azufre (1958). Se pondrá en evidencia la apropiación personal de la propuesta surrealista llevada a cabo por Moro, y sus vinculaciones míticas, imaginales y afectivas con los territorios andinos. La hermenéutica ecopoética de la obra de Moro manifestará, asimismo, las posibilidades y límites de las propuestas vanguardistas y modernas para conseguir religar al ser humano con la totalidad cósmica.
Narrativa de los márgenes: la representación del sujeto migrante-niño/a, el espacio y la violencia de género en tres cuentos peruanos
Authors: Manrique Rabelo Carlos Milton , Rodriguez Narvaez Vanessa , Rivas Sucari Henry César , Mere Collazos Milagros Jessica
Published: April 2024

Este artículo se propone realizar una lectura sobre la representación del sujeto migrante-niño/a, el espacio y la violencia de género en tres cuentos peruanos: “El niño de Junto al Cielo” (1954) de Enrique Congrains Martín, “Montacerdos” (1981) de Cronwell Jara Jiménez y “Brisas III” (2015) de Gerónimo Chuquicaña Saldaña. Para ello, se realizó un estudio comparativo, descriptivo e interpretativo sobre los cuentos escogidos. Fueron tenidas en cuenta las categorías de sujeto migrante y heterogeneidad propuestas por Antonio Cornejo Polar, así como los tipos de narrador y focalización de Mieke Bal y Gerard Genette, y los estudios de género de Pierre Bourdieu, Judith Butler y Norma Fuller. Los procesos de análisis e interpretación mostrarán que los espacios, la marginación y la violencia de género repercuten en la condición migrante y en la identidad de los personajes (niños/as) protagonistas de los cuentos, convirtiéndolos en sujetos violentos, vulnerables e inseguros.
“Arctic” secondary specialized educational institutions in the 1950s – 1960s: specialization of students, characteristics of the teaching staff (case study of the Komi ASSR)
Authors: Macuk A.
Published: April 2024

Based on the materials of the annual reports of secondary specialized educational institutions, the specializations in which specialists were trained in technical schools and colleges operating in the territory of the Komi ASSR within the borders of the modern Arctic zone of the Russian Federation are identified. The chronologically presented study covers the 1950s–1960s. Besides, the paper provides a detailed description of the teaching staff of the “Arctic” secondary specialized educational institutions at the specified time, in particular, the number, educational level and work experience of teachers. The conclusion is made about the training of specialists in the studied educational institutions in a wide range of specialities, the list of which has increased significantly over the period outlined. This process would not have been possible without a solid team of highly qualified teachers.
Changing the taxation system of peasants of the Komi region in the XVIII century
Authors: Gagieva A.
Published: April 2024

The work deals with the study of changes in the taxation system of peasants of the Komi region in the XVIII century. In place of the household comes the poll system, which has radically changed not only the taxation system, but also the distribution of monetary taxes. The nomenclature of taxes and fees, their dynamics were determined, the specifics of changes in tax policy were revealed, etc. As shown by the study of monetary taxes on the territory of the Komi region (Yarensk, since 1780, and Ust-Sysolsk Uyezds), the peasantry paid poll taxes, quitrent and all kinds of «mundane» monetary taxes in favour of the state. They did not remain unchanged and were constantly increasing. New emergency taxes and fees have been introduced. As a result, it was concluded that the strengthening of the tax press led not only to a deterioration in the economic situation of the peasants, but also activated the population to search for new sources of income.
Comparative in vitro analysis of the antifungal activity of different calcium silicate-based endodontic sealers
Authors: Moreira Luiz Felipe Nunes , Peña-Bengoa Fernando , Niklander Sven Eric , Bueno Carlos Eduardo da Silveira , Martin Alexandre Sigrist de , Rocha Daniel Guimarães Pedro
Published: April 2024

Aim: This study aimed to perform an in vitro comparative analysis of the antifungal activity of different calcium silicate-based endodontic sealers against three fungal species. Methods: The antifungal properties of three calcium silicate-based sealers were tested: Bio-C Sealer, Cambiar a Sealer Plus BC, and MTA-Fillapex. Two commonly used sealers were used as controls: AH Plus and Endomethasone. An agar diffusion test was performed to analyze the antifungal activity of the sealers against Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, and a mixed microbial culture medium. The results were analyzed using ANOVA (p <0.05). Results: Endomethasone exhibited the highest inhibition against all strains examined, maintaining a consistent level of inhibition throughout 7 days. MTA-Fillapex demonstrated the best performance among the calcium silicate-based sealers for the three fungal species (p < 0.05), maintaining stable values over the 7 days, surpassing that of Endomethasone. Nevertheless, MTA-Fillapex only exhibited antimicrobial effect against the mixed culture for the first 24 hours, and no antimicrobial activity was observed at 48 hours, being surpassed by all tested sealers (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Of all silicate-based sealers tested, only MTA-Fillapex exhibited promising antifungal activity. Nevertheless, care must be taken when extrapolating these results, as MTA-Fillapex exhibited poor antimicrobial activity when tested in mixed microbial cultures.
Cartografia das ações da campanha #MuseusPelaVida
Authors: Marti Frieda Maria , Carvalho Felipe
Published: April 2024

Diante do agravamento da pandemia no Brasil em 2021 e da proliferação de fake news, discursos de ódio, negacionistas e ideológicos contra a vacinação e as medidas de prevenção da doença, o comitê brasileiro do Conselho Internacional de Museus (ICOM BR), lançou a campanha online #MuseusPelaVida, disponibilizando em sua página um guia com recomendações de modos de abordagem sobre o tema. Com base no guia, buscamos compreender de que modo as recomendações para a campanha foram operacionalizadas nas redes pelos museus. Para tal, optamos pela cartografia na cibercultura para pensar-produzir esta pesquisa no Instagram durante o período de 10 a 31 de maio de 2021. Como desdobramento desta cartografia na cibercultura, compreendemos que campanhas como essa do #MuseusPelaVida se apresentam como necessárias e fundamentais em nosso tempo, uma vez que vivemos uma sociedade marcada pela política do ódio e do descrédito com a ciência; e sugerimos que futuras ações online de campanhas ativistas de museus ultrapassem o modelo comunicacional massivo e lancem mão dos pressupostos e indicadores da Educação Museal Online a fim de gerar a participação ativa dos usuários por meio de conversações que fomentem a colaboração e a (co)autoria entre os museus e seus públicos, ampliando o alcance social e a democratização dessas instituições.
Motivaciones para la posición variable del sujeto en guaraní paraguayo
Authors: Califa Martín , Belloro Valeria A.
Published: April 2024

Se considera al guaraní paraguayo como una lengua con orden básico SVO, aunque flexible en virtud de motivaciones discursivas. En un estudio de corpus de narrativas, Tonhauser & Colijn (2010) muestran que los sujetos se distribuyen de manera equitativa entre la posición pre y postverbal, aunque sin lograr identificar motivaciones claras para este patrón. En este trabajo retomamos este punto llevando a cabo un análisis de narrativas desde un enfoque predominantemente inductivo y cualitativo. Así, encontramos que los sujetos postverbales corresponden a tres clases: i) emisores en oraciones de reporte de discurso directo, ii) antitópicos en contextos de ambigüedad referencial, y iii) referentes focales en oraciones presentativas. Puesto que solo los últimos pueden considerarse para un análisis de orden de constituyentes, la posición mayoritaria de los sujetos resulta ser la preverbal. Mostramos, asimismo, que los sujetos preverbales tienen menos restricciones en términos de la estructura informativa que admiten, lo que junto con su mayor frecuencia textual nos lleva a caracterizarlos como no marcados. Finalmente, esbozamos algunas implicancias diacrónicas y tipológicas de nuestros hallazgos.
Developing the professional capacity of preschool teachers through pedagogical training activities
Authors: Ho Van-Thong , Le Thi-Kim Anh , Nguyen Van-De , Phan Trong-Nam , Tran Van-Dat
Published: April 2024

The primary purpose of educational programs is to enhance students’ knowledge and skills through pedagogical training activities. However, preschool teachers in Vietnam face limitations in their professional capacity. Thus, this study aimed to address issues by evaluating the level of implementation of pedagogical training activities for preschool education students. The study used a scale for students' pedagogical practice activities to gather quantitative data from 629 participants (managers, lecturers and preschool teachers) in Dong Thap province in Vietnam to assess the extent of implementation of pedagogical training activities for preschool education students. The results showed that preschool teachers may not possess the essential knowledge of pedagogical practices. Pedagogical training uses conventional work-and-activity techniques despite the fact that it prioritizes innovation. Moreover, all school managers, teachers and students recognized the necessity of developing the professional capacity of preschool teachers. These findings illustrate the critical need for revitalizing educational approaches that are consistent with Vietnam's developing preschool teacher professional development context. The present study proposes some measures to innovate pedagogical practice activities in order to meet the requirements for developing the professional capacity of preschool teachers in Vietnam. Such initiatives hold promise for reshaping the educational landscape and fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the primary education sector of Vietnam.
Role of temporary portosystemic surgical shunt during liver resection to prevent a post-resection small for size-like syndrome
Authors: Lanari Jacopo , Polacco Marina , Cillo Umberto
Published: April 2024

Liver resection stands as the gold-standard therapeutic approach for selected cases of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The extent of resectable parenchyma hinges upon the underlying liver function and its regenerative potential. Consequently, cirrhosis may impede access to potentially curative interventions for HCC arising within this context. Cirrhotic patients undergoing liver resection face heightened susceptibility to post-hepatectomy liver failure (PHLF). The clinical profile of PHLF bears a resemblance to a well-documented syndrome within the liver transplant (LT) domain: Small-for-size syndrome (SFSS), a form of graft failure observed in the postoperative phase following LT with undersized or partial organs. Management of SFSS targets mitigating the overflow syndrome, achievable through diverse portal diversion techniques. Portal vein flow diversion encompasses procedures redirecting a variable proportion of portal vein flow towards systemic circulation. Consequently, derivative procedures aim to directly alleviate portal hypertension. Side-to-side portocaval shunts emerge as the most straightforward and efficacious means of decompressing the portal system. Furthermore, they afford flow calibration to diminish the incidence and severity of steal syndrome and hepatic encephalopathy, without compromising efficacy or hepatic function. Translating insights gleaned from LT complexities involving SFSS to liver resection, strategies involving portal flow diversion warrant consideration in efforts to forestall PHLF. This approach aims to extend the frontiers of liver surgery, broadening access to hepatectomy with curative intent, either as a standalone intervention or as part of a comprehensive treatment regimen where LT serves as a secondary option.
Mechanisms underlying reversed TRAIL sensitivity in acquired bortezomib-resistant non-small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: De Wilt Leonie , Sobocki Bartosz Kamil , Jansen Gerrit , Tabeian Hessan , de Jong Steven , Peters Godefridus J. , Kruyt Frank
Published: April 2024

Aim: The therapeutic targeting of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) death receptors in cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), is a widely studied approach for tumor selective apoptotic cell death therapy. However, apoptosis resistance is often encountered. The main aim of this study was to investigate the apoptotic mechanism underlying TRAIL sensitivity in three bortezomib (BTZ)-resistant NSCLC variants, combining induction of both the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways.

Methods: Sensitivity to TRAIL in BTZ-resistant variants was determined using a tetrazolium (MTT) and a clonogenic assay. A RT-qPCR profiling mRNA array was used to determine apoptosis pathway-specific gene expression. The expression of these proteins was determined through ELISA assays and western Blotting, while apoptosis (sub-G1) and cytokine expression were determined using flow cytometry. Apoptotic genes were silenced by specific siRNAs. Lipid rafts were isolated with fractional ultracentrifugation.

Results: A549BTZR (BTZ-resistant) cells were sensitive to TRAIL in contrast to parental A549 cells, which are resistant to TRAIL. TRAIL-sensitive H460 cells remained equally sensitive for TRAIL as H460BTZR. In A549BTZR cells, we identified an increased mRNA expression of TNFRSF11B [osteoprotegerin (OPG)] and caspase-1, -4 and -5 mRNAs involved in cytokine activation and immunogenic cell death. Although the OPG, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) protein levels were markedly enhanced (122-, 103-, and 11-fold, respectively) in the A549BTZR cells, this was not sufficient to trigger TRAIL-induced apoptosis in the parental A549 cells. Regarding the extrinsic apoptotic pathway, the A549BTZR cells showed TRAIL-R1-dependent TRAIL sensitivity. The shift of TRAIL-R1 from non-lipid into lipid rafts enhanced TRAIL-induced apoptosis. In the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, a strong increase in the mRNA and protein levels of the anti-apoptotic myeloid leukemia cell differentiation protein (Mcl-1) and B-cell leukemia/lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) was found, whereas the B-cell lymphoma-extra large (Bcl-xL) expression was reduced. However, the stable overexpression of Bcl-xL in the A549BTZR cells did not reverse the TRAIL sensitivity in the A549BTZR cells, but silencing of the BH3 Interacting Domain Death Agonist (BID) protein demonstrated the importance of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway, regardless of Bcl-xL.

Conclusion: In summary, increased sensitivity to TRAIL-R1 seems predominantly related to the relocalization into lipid rafts and increased extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways.
Intrinsic supercurrent diode effect in NbSe2 nanobridge
Authors: Zhang Yiwen , Cai Jiliang , Dong Peng , He Jiadian , Ding Yifan , Wang Jinghui , Zhou Xiang , Cao Kecheng , Wu Yueshen , Li Jun
Published: April 2024

The significance of the superconducting diode effect (SDE) lies in its potential application as a fundamental component in the development of next-generation superconducting circuit technology. The stringent operating conditions at low temperatures have posed challenges for the conventional semiconductor diode, primarily due to its exceptionally high resistivity. In response to this limitation, various approaches have emerged to achieve the SDE, primarily involving the disruption of inversion symmetry in a two-dimensional superconductor through heterostructure fabrication. In this study, we present a direct observation of the supercurrent diode effect in a NbSe2 nanobridge with a length of approximately 15 nm, created using focused helium ion beam fabrication. Nonreciprocal supercurrents were identified, reaching a peak value of approximately 380 μA for each bias polarity at B zmax = ± 0.2 mT. Notably, the nonreciprocal supercurrent can be toggled by altering the bias polarity. This discovery of the SDE introduces a novel avenue and mechanism through nanofabrication on a superconducting flake, offering fresh perspectives for the development of superconducting devices and potential circuits.
Calcification-associated molecular traits and therapeutic strategies in hormone receptor-positive HER2-negative breast cancer
Authors: Li Yuwei , Xu Yuzheng , Lin Caijin , Jin Xi , Ma Ding , Shao Zhiming
Published: April 2024

Objective: Mammographic calcifications are a common feature of breast cancer, but their molecular characteristics and treatment implications in hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2−) breast cancer remain unclear. Methods: We retrospectively collected mammography records of an HR+/HER2− breast cancer cohort (n = 316) with matched clinicopathological, genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic data. On the basis of mammographic images, we grouped tumors by calcification status into calcification-negative tumors, tumors with probably benign calcifications, tumors with calcification of low-moderate suspicion for maligancy and tumors with calcification of high suspicion for maligancy. We then explored the molecular characteristics associated with each calcification status across multiple dimensions. Results: Among the different statuses, tumors with probably benign calcifications exhibited elevated hormone receptor immunohistochemical staining scores, estrogen receptor (ER) pathway activation, lipid metabolism, and sensitivity to endocrine therapy. Tumors with calcifications of high suspicion for malignancy had relatively larger tumor sizes, elevated lymph node metastasis incidence, Ki-67 staining scores, genomic instability, cell cycle pathway activation, and may benefit from cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors. Conclusions: Our research established links between tumor calcifications and molecular features, thus proposing potential precision treatment strategies for HR+/HER2− breast cancer.
Persepsi Tentang Daya Tarik Iklan dan Pengaruhnya Pada Brand Exposure Produk Mie Instan
Authors: Ikbar Harits , Firdausa Faza Ruziqyani , Syamilah Fidelia , Abillah Muhammad Vicky , Cindy Vira Deyana
Published: April 2024

This study aims to examine consumer perceptions of the attractiveness of Instant Noodle advertisements and their effect on brand exposure. The method used was quantitative by distributing questionnaires to 136 respondents who had experience buying and consuming Instant Noodles. Data taken using Partial Least Square analysis. The results showed that consumer perception of advertising attractiveness has a significant positive influence on brand exposure. The managerial implication of this study is that companies should consider the attractiveness of advertising in their marketing strategy, and also pay attention to other factors that can affect brand exposure.

Keyword: Advertising, Brand Exposure, Instant Noodles
Pengaruh Digital Marketing dan User Experience Terhadap Keputusan Penggunaan Gojek Melalui Brand Image
Authors: Iskandar Muflih , Saidani Basrah , Aditya Shandy
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine 1) the effect of digital marketing on usage decisions, 2) the influence of user experience on usage decisions, 3) the infIuence of digitaI marketing on brand image, 4) the infIuence of user experience on brand image, 5) the influence of brand image on usage decisions. , 6) infIuence of digitaI marketing on usage decisions through brand image, 7) infIuence of user experience on usage decisions through brand image. The study was conducted on 200 Gojek users in Jakarta who have used Gojek for at Ieast one year, using the SEM method and AMOS tooIs. The resuIts show that 1) digitaI marketing has a significant and positive effect on usage decisions, 2) user experience has a significant and positive effect on usage decisions, 3) digitaI marketing has a significant and positive effect on brand image, 4) user experience significantly and positive effect on brand image, 5) brand image has a significant and positive effect on usage decisions, 6) digitaI marketing has a significant and positive effect on usage decisions through brand image, 7) user experience has a significant and positive effect on usage decisions through brand image
Knowledge, Precautionary, Mental Health Status During the Stabilization Stage of the COVID-19 Pandemic Among the University Students in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Cheang Chonin , Chan Wengtong , Wang Xiaona , Xia Sujian , Law Saikam
Published: April 2024

Objectives: The aim of this study was to survey the part of the university students in Guangzhou, China to better understand their levels of anxiety and common mental disorders (CMD) during the stabilization stage of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: From 1 -12 November 2021, we conducted an online survey using a convenience sampling strategy. Demographic information, health status, COVID-19-related situations, degrees of knowledge, preventative actions, and COVID-19-related worries were all obtained through an online survey. The mental health self-assessment tools were distributed online through WeChat and other self-media platforms. The mental impacts were assessed by the Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20), Coronavirus Anxiety Scale (CAS) surveys, and evaluates students' mental health in universities in Guangzhou, with the positive detection rate as the outcome indicator.
Results: This study included 2010 respondents. 12.1% reported anxiety symptoms; 22.6% reported CMD symptoms. Older, male, online classes, national non-key universities, no received vaccine, individuals and family members had been diagnosed COVID-19, confirmed cases occurred in the vicinity, COVID-19 related worries, low-knowledge and precautionary measures related with COVID-19 have a higher risk more significantly to have a mental disorder that we have observed (all OR > 1.20, p<0.05).
WITHDRAWN: Numerical Study on the Performance Evaluation and Thermal Management of Automotive Exhaust Thermoelectric Generator using Pin fins
Authors: Veer Chander
Published: April 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors due to author disagreement with the posting of the preprint. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Negatively chirped, self-compressing supercontinuum generation by ghost pulses
Authors: Heyne Karsten , Zhang Xingwen , Kozich Valeri , Lindinger Albrecht , Nagy Tamas , Vrakking Marc
Published: April 2024

Supercontinuum generation is an enabling technology for a host of intriguing applications such as tuneable ultra-fast light sources, ultra-short pulse generation, etc. It is governed by self-phase modulation, in which new frequencies are created at the leading and trailing edge of the light pulse with lower and higher frequencies, respectively. This spectral broadening is accompanied by positive chirp, opening the possibility to compress the pulse to a shorter duration by adding negative chirp. However, in many cases – e.g. in the ultraviolet spectral range - it is very difficult to introduce well-controlled negative chirp. Here, we present a solution to this problem, the first negatively chirped supercontinuum generation driven by ghost pulses. Ghost pulses have properties of real light pulses and are imprinted on longer carrier pulses with inverted intensity. Flipping the intensity, enables negatively chirped supercontinuum in the normal dispersion regime. With support from simulations, we have experimentally created and characterized ghost pulses, and demonstrated creation of a negatively chirped supercontinuum. We present a first application by a self-compressing non-collinear optical parametric amplifier. Our approach adds a new item to the toolbox of ultrafast technology enabling pulse compression for difficult cases where classical chirp management is not a viable option.
Institutional trajectories and threshold effects in the relationship between FDI and growth: An application to the the WAEMU zone
Authors: Assoumou-Ella Giscard , Bastidon Cécile , Ouattara Kouakou Constant
Published: April 2024

The empirical validation of a significant relationship between institutional quality, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and growth in the West African Economic and Monetary Union (WAEMU) zone, characterized by notable institutional instability over the last three decades, is controversial. We propose an original study based on a principal component analysis (PCA) of the PRS Group Institutional Quality Database (ICRG PRS), comprising twelve variables, for six countries in the WAEMU zone over the period 1992-2017. The first three main dimensions allow us to identify converging institutional trajectories, associated with greater permanence of institutions, improvement in the nature of regimes, and the persistence of ambivalence in these processes. These first main dimensions are then used in a linear and then non-linear empirical modeling of the relationship between FDI and growth. We show the existence of a threshold effect associated with the position in the institutional permanence trajectory. In the regime of higher permanence, the favorable effect of FDI is reinforced, while that of the domestic determinants of growth is reduced, suggesting an extraversion dynamic of the determinants of growth. These results illustrate the complexity of the relationship between institutions and macroeconomic dynamics in countries characterized by unstable institutions, and the need to employ specific empirical strategies.
JEL classification. C24, C38, E02, F21, O43.
The size of PFO on the incidences of stroke and migraine
Authors: Wang Mengqi , Lan Duo , Zhou Da , Ding Yuchuan , Ji Xunming , Meng Ran
Published: April 2024

Background and purposes
: Optimal treatment approaches for patients with both patent foramen ovale (PFO) and hypercoagulable state remain uncertain. This study aimed to introduce a novel therapeutic strategy involving the combination of anticoagulant and antiplatelet medications following PFO closure.
Methods
Consecutive patients diagnosed as PFO and hypercoagulable state were enrolled in this real-world case-control study between January 2021 and January 2022. After PFO closure, patients received either a combination of anticoagulant and mono antiplatelet therapy (anticoagulant group)or dual antiplatelet therapy(antiplatelet group) as part of their post-procedural management. Follow-up outcomes encompassed cessation of clinical symptoms, recurrence of neurological events, major bleeding episodes, and mortality.
Results
The final analysis comprised 38 eligible patients. Following PFO closure, of whom 17 patients were treated with a combination of anticoagulant and mono antiplatelet therapy, others treated with dual antiplatelet therapy. Over the one-year treatment period, significant differences were observed in alleviating migraine and prevention of recurrent stroke between the anticoagulant group and the antiplatelet group (p < 0.05). No instances of bleeding events and recurrent stroke were recorded during follow-up.
Conclusions
For patients with both PFO and hypercoagulable state, long-term therapy involving anticoagulants and mono antiplatelet agents post PFO closure may be a viable option. However, further validation through multicenter and extensive clinical trials is warranted.
Hydrostatic bearing groove multi-objective optimization of the gear ring housing interface in a straight-line conjugate internal meshing gear pump
Authors: Zhang Tiangui , Yan Guishan , Liu Xianhang , Ding Beichen , Feng Guodong , Ai Chao
Published: April 2024

The lubrication performance of a straight-line conjugate internal meshing gear pump is poor under the low-speed, high-pressure operating conditions of the volumetric servo speed control system, and it is difficult to establish a full fluid lubricating oil film between the gear ring and the housing. This leads to significant wear and severe heating between the gear ring and the housing. The lubrication performance of the interface moving pair of the electro-hydraulic actuator pump gear ring housing can be improved by designing a reasonable lubrication bearing structure for the gear ring housing. In this study, a multi-field coupling multi-objective optimization model was established to improve lubrication performance and volumetric efficiency. The whole model consists of the dynamic model of the gear ring components, the fluid lubrication model of the gear ring housing interface, the oil film formation and sealing model considering the influence of temperature, and the multi-objective optimization model. The comprehensive performance of the straight-line conjugate internal meshing gear pump was verified experimentally using a test bench. The results show that the lubrication performance is improved, the mechanical loss is reduced by 31.52%, and the volumetric efficiency is increased by 4.91%.
Load Balancing For High Performance Computing Using Quantum Annealing
Authors: Rathore Omer , Basden Alastair , Chancellor Nicholas , Kusumaatmaja Halim
Published: April 2024

With the advent of exascale computing, effective load balancing in massively parallel software applications is critically importantfor leveraging the full potential of high performance computing systems. Load balancing is the distribution of computational workbetween available processors. Here, we investigate the application of quantum annealing to load balance two paradigmaticalgorithms in high performance computing. Namely, adaptive mesh refinement and smoothed particle hydrodynamics arechosen as representative grid and off-grid target applications. While the methodology for obtaining real simulation data topartition is application specific, the proposed balancing protocol itself remains completely general. In a grid based context,quantum annealing is found to outperform classical methods such as the round robin protocol but lacks a decisive advantageover more advanced methods such as steepest descent or simulated annealing despite remaining competitive. The primaryobstacle to scalability is found to be limited coupling on current quantum annealing hardware. However, for the more complexparticle formulation, approached as a multi-objective optimization, quantum annealing solutions are demonstrably Paretodominant to state of the art classical methods across both objectives. This signals a noteworthy advancement in solution qualitywhich can have a large impact on effective CPU usage.
Magnitude and Pattern of Cardiovascular Diseases in Saint Peter’s Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa (July 2017 to June 2021), Ethiopia, June 2022.
Authors: Goshim Nigus , Yesuf Aman
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide. Approximately 18 million people die each year from cardiovascular diseases, an estimated 32% of all deaths worldwide. In more than 75% of cardiovascular diseases, deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, and 85% of all cardiovascular disease deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes. In Ethiopia, cardiovascular diseases accounted for 16% of all deaths in 2018 and were the leading cause of death. Cardiovascular diseases are fatal and can lead to serious illness, disability, and compromised quality of life. This data analysis aimed to assess the magnitude and pattern of cardiovascular diseases in Saint Peter’s Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Method: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from June 9, 2022, to June 29, 2022 to analyze four years cardiovascular disease data covering the period from July 2017 to June 2021. The data was reviewed and analyzed by Excel 2016. The results are summarized as counts, proportions, ratios and means and are illustrated by tables and graphs.
Results: In Saint Peter’s Specialized Hospital, hypertension accounted for 46.9% (8182) CVD. Coronary heart diseases and heart failure accounted for 22.9% and 20% respectively among cardiovascular diseases. Cerebrovascular diseases and heart failure accounted for 74% of deaths from cardiovascular diseases, followed by ischemic heart diseases, which accounted for 22% of deaths. Cardiovascular diseases accounted for 74.3% of deaths from noncommunicable diseases and 16.9% of deaths from all deaths.
Conclusion: Hypertension, heart failure, and ischemic heart disease were the three most frequent cardiovascular diseases. Heart failure and cerebrovascular diseases are the leading causes of death. Among noncommunicable diseases, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death. Cardiovascular diseases account for three-fourths of noncommunicable diseases and responsible for a significant number deaths in the hospital, so the hospital places more emphasis on cardiovascular diseases prevention, treatment, and control.
The Effects of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate and Second-Generation Autologous Growth Factor on Pulpotomy
Authors: Kurt Ayca , Cıkman Ahter Sanal , Balaban Emre , Gumrukcu Zeynep , Mercantepe Tolga , Tümkaya Levent , Karabağ Mert
Published: April 2024

The aim of our study is to see the effect of Mineral Trioxide Aggregate (MTA), bioactive endodontic cement, and Concentrated Growth Factor (CGF), second-generation autologous growth factor, on pulpotomy-induced pulp inflammation. The study used the maxillary anterior central teeth of thirty-six young male Sprague Dawley rats. In total, 72 maxillary central teeth were included. We randomly assigned 48 teeth to two groups (12 rats/group; 24 teeth/group) based on the capping material (MTA or CGF). Two subgroups per group (12 teeth/group) were formed based on the time following pulpotomy (two weeks and four weeks). Compared to the control group, MTA and CGF applications decreased the formation of inflammation and edematous areas. We also observed that it decreased Nuclear Factor kappa B/P65 (NF-kB/P65) and Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)-α positivities. We determined fewer cells showing NF-kβ/p65 positivity in the MTA treatment group compared to the CGF group. Moreover, we determined fewer cells showing NF-kβ/p65 positivity on day 28 after the MTA application compared to day 14 after the MTA application. In the CGF group, both histological damage scores and TNF positivity decreased. This study has established that, second-generation autologous growth factors have a protective effect in treating inflammation after pulpotomy.
Clinical characteristics and prognostic analysis of gene mutations in Myelodysplastic Syndrome
Authors: Ding Lingling , Lai Yiting , Chen Yanhui , Andoh Sheikh A. , Zou Mengqi , Long Zaifei , Zhang Wenhui , Wang Zhihong
Published: April 2024

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are heterogeneous clonal diseases characterized by cytopenia caused by
ineffective hematopoiesis and high risk of transformation into acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Genetic mutations are an essential pathogenesis of MDS. In order to analyze gene mutations, clinical features, and their correlation with survival prognosis in patients with MDS, Clinical data of 248 MDS patients were selected for statistical analysis. The gene chip dataset was obtained from GEO and subjected to bioinformatics analysis. Among 248 MDS patients, TET2 was the most common mutated gene (31%), followed by SF3B1 (26%), ASXL1 (23%), SRSF2 (14%), DNMT3A (12%), and RUNX1 (11%). Age, gender, and ASXL1 mutations are independent prognostic factors for OS. Survival analysis showed that co-mutations in the EZH2 or ETV6 genes significantly reduced the survival time of patients with ASXL1 mutations. Based on the KEGG and IPP analysis results, the MYC gene may be related to the mechanism of action of ASXL1 mutation in MDS patients. Our research findings demonstrate a correlation between gene mutations and survival outcomes. Mutations in ETV6 or EZH2 co-mutations are associated with poorer clinical outcomes in MDS patients carrying ASXL1mt and suggest that MYC may become a potential therapeutic target for MDS patients carrying ASXL1 mutations.
Incidence of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw and associated antiresorptive drugs in adult Finnish population: A registry-based longitudinal study
Authors: Kujanpää Miika , Vuollo Ville , Tiisanoja Antti , Laitala Marja-Liisa , Sándor George K. , Karki Saujanya
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the incidence of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ) and associated antiresorptive drugs in the Finnish population. All adult patients (aged 18 years and older) who were prescribed with antiresorptive drugs (AR) during 2013-2015 were included in this study. A total of n=58367 patients met the inclusion criteria and were followed up until 2020. The outcome variable was the diagnosis of MRONJ during the study period. Patients’ age, gender, type of AR prescribed, reason for using AR drugs, route of administration, use of corticosteroids, use of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors were used as covariates. The incidence of MRONJ was 0.8% in this study population. The risk of developing MRONJ among denosumab users was 5.6 times higher compared to bisphosphonates users. Patients diagnosed with cancer had a 10.8-folds risk of developing MRONJ compared to those diagnosed with osteonecrosis. Simultaneous use of corticosteroids and VEGFs in addition to AR drug increased the risk of developing MRONJ by 3.6 and 1.5 times, respectively. In conclusion, male, denosumab, any type of cancer diagnosis, simultaneous use of corticosteroid and VEGF inhibitors were the most noteworthy risk factors for MRONJ.
Evaluating the Utility of Atypical Central Neurocytoma Classification and Treatment Strategies
Authors: Sun Feixia , Yang Zuocheng , Kong Ronghua , Han Song
Published: April 2024

Background
The classification and treatment of atypical central neurocytomas (CNs) remain controversial. This study aimed to explore the optimal treatment strategy for this condition.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed data from 61 patients with CNs who underwent surgery at a single institution.
Results
The five-year overall survival (OS) rate (P = 0.015) and progression-free survival (PFS) rate (P = 0.000002) were significantly higher in the complete resection (CR) group compared to the incomplete resection (IR) group. Postoperative radiotherapy did not affect OS (P = 0.255) or PFS (P = 0.398) in the CR group. However, the five-year PFS rate (P = 0.000038) was significantly longer in patients in the CR group who did not receive radiotherapy compared to those in the IR group who did receive radiotherapy. The extent of surgical resection and operative approaches were found to be irrelevant to perioperative complications and dysfunctions at the last follow-up.
Conclusion
CR is the optimal therapeutic approach for atypical CNs, and radiotherapy is not necessary for patients who undergo complete tumor resection. Although the previous definition of atypical CNs may not have significant prognostic value, the overexpression of ten genes may be involved in malignant behaviors and may serve as potential candidate hallmarks for differentiating atypical CNs.
Assessing the determinants of the frequency and contents of antenatal care visits in Bangladesh by using binary logistic regression
Authors: Nayem H M , Sinha Aziz , Tareq Rahman
Published: April 2024

The elements of antenatal care (ANC) services covered by ANC visits, in addition to the quantity of ANC visits, have a significant impact on the quality of ANC services. The World Health Organization (WHO) recently advised using a core set of ANC services in addition to a minimum of eight ANC visits to ensure safe motherhood. This study investigated the degree of compliance with the WHO-recommended number and content of ANC services throughout pregnancy in Bangladesh by looking at the levels and factors of frequency and content of ANC visits in Bangladesh. The data for the study comes from the 2017–2018 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey (BDHS), which covered a nationally representative sample of 20,250 ever-married women aged 15–49 years. Data derived from 4,946 mothers who gave birth in the three years preceding the survey constituted the study subjects. Of the 4,946 mothers in the sample, most of them are middle aged and in age group 20–24 (35.4%) and 25–29 (26.2%). Respondents are from all regional place of Bangladesh and most of them are rural (65.6%). Receiving a greater number of ANC services items is significantly positively correlated with the mothers and their husband’s education level. This study also reveals that the higher the wealth indexes the higher the chance of completing ANC visit. In Bangladesh, there has been an unsatisfactory degree of coverage and content of ANC visits. To determine the reasons for Bangladesh's underutilization of ANC services, more research is required. The quality of ANC services in Bangladesh could be raised by having a better grasp of the identified risk factors and implementing them into short- and long-term initiatives.
Nutrients Intake and Physical Activity Levels Assessment Among University Students and Secondary School Students in North Central Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Modupe Abiona , Zha Longying , Segun Asaolu , Olakunle Osisanya
Published: April 2024

Background: In recent years, the escalating prevalence of nutrition-related health issues such as malnutrition, foodborne illnesses, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), obesity, and diabetes has become a significant concern globally. NCDs, which are on the rise in Nigeria, are a significant threat to the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and have been associated with genetic, environmental, and behavioral risk factors. These issues may be avoided by making changes to eating habits, adjusting lifestyle, among other measures. As the nutritional habits and physical activity patterns of students significantly impact their overall health and well-being. This research aims to comprehensively evaluate the nutrient intake, and physical activity levels among university and secondary school students in North Central Nigeria.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among a representative sample of university and secondary school students in the North Central region of Nigeria. Participants were surveyed using standardized questionnaires to collect data on nutrients intake and physical activity levels. Nutrient intake was assessed through food frequency questionnaires, while Physical activity levels were determined through the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ).
Results: a final sample of 395 university and secondary school students’ participants were investigated. Preliminary findings reveal varying patterns of nutrient intake and physical activity levels among university and secondary school students. The t-values for energy, protein, fat, and carbohydrates range from -1.421 to 2.24, with corresponding p-values above the significance level of 0.05. Indicating that, on average, both groups have comparable macronutrient intake patterns In Mineral intake, significant differences can be seen in phosphorous with a p-value of 0.03. There was no statistically significant association between physical activity levels and the student groups (χ2 = 1.612, p = 0.204 > 0.05).
Conclusion: This research underscores the importance of a holistic approach to promoting health and well-being among university and secondary school students in North Central Nigeria. The findings contribute valuable information for designing effective interventions that address specific challenges related to nutrient intake and physical activity levels, ultimately fostering a healthier lifestyle among the student population.