bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes of resting-state neural activity and nerve fibers in ischemic stroke patients with hemiplegia
Authors: Cao Xuejin , Wang Zan , Chen Xiaohui , Liu Yanli , Abdoulaye Idriss Ali , Ju Shenghong , Zhang Shiyao , Wu Shanshan , Wang Yuancheng , Guo Yijing
Published: May 2022

Many neuroimaging studies have reported that stroke induces abnormal brain activities. Yet, little is known about resting-state networks (RSNs) and the corresponding white matter changes in stroke patients with hemiplegia. Here, we utilized functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to measure the neural activity and related fiber tracks in 14 ischemic stroke patients with hemiplegia and 12 healthy controls. The fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (fALFF) calculation and correlation analyses were used to assess the relationship between the regional neural activity and movement scores. Tractography was performed using the diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) data to analyze the fibers passing the regions of interest. Compared with controls, stroke patients showed abnormal functional connectivity (FC) in some brain regions of the RSNs. The fALFF was increased in the contralesional parietal lobe, with the regional fALFF being correlated to behavioral scores in stroke patients. And the tracked fibers across regions with reduced FC in the RSNs were increased in stroke patients. The study suggested that structural remodeling of functionally-relevant white matter tracts probably be an adaptive response that compensates for injury to the brain.
Experimental study on anti-freezing and thawing performance of basalt fiber reinforced fly ash concrete under corrosive conditions
Authors: Jin Sheng-ji , Yang Yu-hao , Sun Yi-min , Xu Li , Xu Jing-yan
Published: May 2022

Basalt fiber reinforced fly ash concrete (BFRFAC) is a new inorganic non-metal composite building material with superior mechanical performance, which can be extensively applied in the fields of bridge floors, pavements and other construction engineering projects. In the present paper, the freezing and thawing resistance performance of BFRFAC under corrosion conditions was studied in detail with the comparison to the Normal Concrete (NC). Experimental studies on the mass loss rate (MLR) in a non-corrosive environment, and the MLR as well as the relative dynamic modulus of elasticity (RDME) in chlorine corrosion, sulfate corrosion and the complex combined corrosion of chloride and sulfate solution were conducted through the quick freezing method. Further, the meso-structure of the fracture section in the composite material was scanned with the help of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) at amplified ×500, ×1,000 and ×1,500. The gripping effect between basalt fibers and substrate under the case of pull-out failure and fracture failure was quantitatively analyzed, which convincingly revealed the crack resistance, reinforcement and strengthening mechanisms of basalt fibers on concrete substrate. The research results indicated that RDME decreased and its decent rate became slower in turn when the composite material was exposed to freeze-thaw cycles in all the above four considered cases. Among them, in the case of the complex solution corrosion, the number of freeze-thaw cycles of BFRFAC was larger than 400. Compared to the NC, the BFRFAC cyclic lifespan could be extended effectively. In addition, the full play of fly ash activity and great filling effect enhanced the gripping effect between basalt fibers and concrete substrate. Therefore, it could effectively improve the freezing and thawing resistance damage capacity of BFRFAC.
Revealing the Social Biomarkers of Residual Feed Intake by Using 16s rRNA and LC-MS in Duroc Pig Ileum
Authors: Wang Shujie , Wang Kai , Ji Xiang , Chen Dong , Shen Qi , Yu Yang , Gu Yiren , Liu Yihui , Jiang Yanzhi , Zhu Li , Li Mingzhou , Li Xuewei , Tang Guoqing
Published: May 2022

Feed efficiency (FE) is a typical social affected trait. However, the mechanisms involved are not fully elucidated. According to the rank of residual feed intake (RFI)’s social genetic effect (SGE), ten high and low pigs were selected, named LRI and HRI groups. A sampling of ileal chyme after slaughter. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and 16S rRNA were conducted to investigate the relationship between the gut microbiome or metabolites and the SGE of RFI. The results showed significant differences between HRI and LRI groups. Compared with the HRI group, Escherichia, Eubacterium, and Gemmiger were enriched in the LRI group (P < 0.01), whereas the abundance of Fusobacterium, Eubacterium, and Desulfovibrio in the HRI group were significantly higher than that in the LRI group (P < 0.01). In the metabolome, we found that Glycine, L-lysine, and L-tryptophan were positively correlated with RFI’s SGE. KEGG pathway analysis revealed that most differential metabolites were involved in amino acid metabolism. The Pearson correlation analysis of the candidate social biomarkers was carried out. Amino acid metabolites were discovered to have significant correlations with Escherichia and Fusobacterium. Therefore, Escherichia and Fusobacterium may influence the SGE of RFI through amino acid metabolism, thereby affecting feed efficiency.
A New Decision-Making Model for Adopting Knowledge Management Strategy Based on FCM
Authors: Yadegari Mahdi , Mohammadi Shahriar
Published: May 2022

Adopting the right strategy can alter the route of an organization. But, many factors in an organization influence the decision to choose a strategy. In the real world, these factors influence not only the strategy but also one another, and this increases the complexity of the issue. On the other hand, identifying the relationship between factors and making decisions on such issues is always subject to some degree of uncertainty. There are many other models created with the goal of enabling organizations to adopt KM (Knowledge Management) strategies. But however, none of them neither could satisfy the requirements of organizations in adopting KM strategies and nor of them are based on fuzzy cognitive maps (FCM) method. This paper aims to help managers choose the right strategy to carry out projects systematically and more efficiently than previous methods did. This research proposes the use of FCM to model and select the appropriate strategy. Since knowledge is the most important asset of any organization and its management is one of the most important processes of the organization, the method proposed here for the selection of an appropriate knowledge management strategy was tested in one of the largest logistics companies in Iran. Factors influencing strategy adoption were considered as the concepts in the fuzzy cognitive network and the evaluation criteria for three strategies: human-oriented, system-oriented, and dynamic. The results showed an improvement in the degree of sensitivity by 0.15% and the separation degree of the model by 0.22% compared to the previous method.
Readiness of Healthcare Professionals as an Inter-Professional Team for Teaching the Good Practices of Diabetic Foot Self-Management among Individuals with Diabetes –A Qualitative Study
Authors: Prabhath Sushma , Handady Ganesh , Herle Gagana , Kamath M Ganesh , Ramanathan Harihara Prakash
Published: May 2022

Background: Diabetes and associated diabetic foot ulcers require coordinated management, including several health care providers (HCPs). Therefore, an interprofessional (IP) team-based approach is essential for effectively managing and educating the population on diabetic foot self-management strategies. However, the perceptions of the HCPs related to the importance of IP teamwork in diabetic foot care and their readiness to work in an IP team are less explored.Methods: The present qualitative study aimed to investigate HCPs' readiness to work as part of a well-motivated IP team and its use in teaching patients effective diabetic foot self-management techniques. The study includes HCPs involved in diabetic foot management patient education and treatment. The seven HCPs were an Anatomist engaged in health professions education, a Medical doctor, an Endocrinologist, Surgeon, Physiotherapist, Nutritionist, and a Nurse who volunteered to be part of the IP team. They were interviewed in-depth using an interview guide, and a thematic analysis of the interview transcripts was undertaken. Results: Every participant was strongly motivated to be an IP team member. The following themes were identified that supported IP team-based approach in diabetic foot-care: 'patient-centric practices,' 'comprehensive care,' 'teamwork and coordination for improved patient outcome,' 'integrated approach,' 'professional knowledge amalgamation,' 'time-management,' 'education in a favorable environment,' and 'constant motivation and support through educational modules.' Conclusion: The HCPs' expressed their willingness to work as part of an IP team and also suggested appropriate teaching methods for diabetic foot self-management.
Methyldecanoate isolated from marine algae Turbinaria ornata enhances immunomodulation in LPS induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages via iNOS/NFκB pathway
Authors: Bhardwaj Meenakshi , Sali Veeresh Kumar , Malarvizhi R. , Mani Sugumar , TK Padmavathy , Vasanthi Hannah R
Published: May 2022

This study identifies the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory potential of a fatty acid methyl ester segregated from the brown algae Turbinaria ornata and identified by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry as methyl6,12-dimethyltridecanoate (ET). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of ET were studied on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Moreover, in silico docking studies of isolated ET with inflammatory markers TNFα, NFκB and COX-2 showed potent binding scores suggesting good anti-inflammatory potential. ET significantly reduced LPO and increased LPS induced SOD, catalase, and GSH levels. Molecular docking results were further confirmed by checking mRNA levels of common inflammatory/anti-inflammatory mediators IL6 and IL10, followed by protein expression of iNOS and NFκB in LPS induced macrophages. ET significantly upregulated the expression of IL10 and downregulated the expression IL6, iNOS, and NFκB confirming inhibition of LPS induced inflammation via the iNOS/NFκB pathway.
Endogenous AhR agonist FICZ accumulates in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) alevins exposed to a mixture of two PAHs, retene and fluoranthene.
Authors: Eriksson Andreas N. M. , Rigaud Cyril , Wincent Emma , Pakkanen Hannu , Salonen Phila , Vehniäinen Eeva-Riikka
Published: May 2022

Multiple studies have reported synergized toxicity of PAH mixtures in developing fish larvae relative to the additive effect of the components. From a toxicological perspective, multiple mechanisms causing synergism has been proposed, such as increased accumulation of PAH, saturated xenobiotic metabolism capacity, and increased oxidative stress. Another potential contributor to synergism is the accumulation of endogenous metabolites, for example: the aryl hydrocarbon receptor 2 (AhR2) agonist and tryptophan metabolite 6-Formylindolo(3,2-b)carbazole (FICZ). Exposure to FICZ, alongside knock-down of cytochrome p450 (cyp1a), caused induced symptoms of toxicity similar to those observed following exposure to PAHs or the dioxin 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin. Here, we explored if FICZ accumulates in newly hatched rainbow trout alevins (Oncorhynchus mykiss) exposed to two PAHs with different properties: retene (potent AhR2 agonist) and fluoranthene (weak AhR2 agonist and Cyp1a inhibitor), either alone or as a binary mixture for 3 and 7 days. We found that exposure to the mixture resulted in accumulation of endogenous FICZ, synergized the blue sac disease index (BSD), and altered the body burden profiles of the PAHs compared to the alevins exposed to the components. It is thus very plausible that accumulation of endogenously derived FICZ contributed to the synergized BSD index and toxicity in exposed alevins. Accumulation of endogenous FICZ is a novel finding that extends our general understanding on PAHs toxicity in developing fish larvae, while at the same time highlighting why environmental risk assessment of PAHs cannot be performed based upon results from single compounds.
Sequence and transcriptional activity analysis of long terminal repeat of endogenous and exogenous Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus
Authors: Du Xiaoyue , Zhang Liang , Li Huiping , Zhang Pei , Duan Xujie , Yang Xiaolin , Liu Shuying
Published: May 2022

Background
Sheep are an ideal model for studying endogenous and exogenous retroviruses. The exogenous Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus (exJSRV) is a pathogenic agent responsible for ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma. In infected sheep, it coexists with various highly related endogenous Jaagsiekte sheep retroviruses (enJSRV). Jaagsiekte sheep retrovirus integrates into the sheep genome in a proviral form whose long terminal repeat (LTR) regulates the expression of viral genes using host transcriptional mechanisms. LTR plays an important regulatory role in transcription and cell tropism.
Methods
We cloned the LTR genes of enJSRV and exJSRV and analyzed the differences between the two sequences using bioinformatics. Furthermore, we detected the transcriptional activity of LTRs in different cell types using the dual-luciferase system.
Results
Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that the LTRs of enJSRV and exJSRV were divided into two branches, and there were differences in transcription factor binding sites, CpG islands, and putative quadruplex-forming sequences. The dual-luciferase reporter system showed that the transcriptional activity of exJSRV LTR was significantly higher than that of enJSRV LTR in lung epithelial cells (P < 0.01).
Conclusions
This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the sequence features of the LTR of enJSRV and exJSRV. These findings support the importance of the LTR in the respective tissue specificities of enJSRV and exJSRV.
Ectopic pregnancy risk factors in infertile patients: a 10-year single center experience
Authors: Cirillo Federico , Paladino Ilaria , Ronchetti Camilla , Busnelli Andrea , Morenghi Emanuela , Grilli Leonora , Patrizio Pasquale , Levi-Setti Paolo Emanuele
Published: May 2022

The present retrospective study included both in vivo and in vitro assisted reproductive technologies (ART) procedures performed from January 2009 to December 2018 at a tertiary-care Fertility Centre. The purpose was to assess the incidence of ectopic pregnancy (EP) in infertile population who undergoes ART and to identify any risk factor impacting the occurrence of EP after ART. Among 27,389 cycles, 7,352 pregnancies were achieved, of which 132 were EPs, the 1.80% (95% CI 1.5-2.1) of all pregnancies. In fresh cycles, a history of prior pelvic adhesions showed the greatest impact on the incidence of EP (aOR 2.49 95% CI 1.53 – 4.07 p < 0.001). Other factors associated with EP incidence were also identified, such as female age, basal FSH, the transfer of blastocyst embryos and difficulties during the embryo transfer procedure. In frozen cycles, the only factor influencing the incidence of EP was Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) serum concentration (aOR 0.81 95% CI 0.65 – 1.00, p = 0.048). To conclude, the incidence of EP observed was comparable to that reported after natural conception. On the other hand, pre-existing risk factors, traditionally more common in infertile population, appeared to influence the incidence of EP and should thus be modified if possible.
Research on A Pixel Size Calibration Method Based on Image Matching
Authors: Feng Shuanglin , Guan Jianhe
Published: May 2022

Before EBI (Electron-Beam Inspection) defect detection, the pixel size of EBI equipment must be calibrated, and the calibration results will directly affect the defect detection results. Aiming at the problems of slow calibration speed, low accuracy and low robustness in EBI equipment, an automatic pixel size calibration method for EBI defect detection is proposed in this paper. It can adaptively calibrate the pixel size without standard template, and accurately calculate the pixel deviation through image matching, which successfully avoids the influence of human factors; Each calibration will automatically update the marked pattern, which can improve the success rate of image matching and facilitate full-automatic detection. The experimental results show that the proposed method can not only control the adaptive calibration of pixel size, but also speed up the detection speed and high precision. Finally, it improves the performance of the detection equipment system and enhances the robustness and adaptability of the system.
Least squares algorithm for multivariable systems: learning and prediction theory
Authors: Wang Ziming , Xing Yiming
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we consider the parameter estimation problem for the multivariable system. A recursive least squares algorithm is studied by minimizing the accumulative prediction error. By employing the stochas-tic Lyapunov function and the martingale estimate methods, we provide the weakest possible data conditions for convergence analysis. The upper bound of accumulative regret is also provided. Variable simulations examples are given, the results demonstrate that the convergence rate of the algorithm depends on the parameter dimension and output dimension.
Identification and Validation of a Necroptosis-related Gene based Prognostic Signature for Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Lin Junyan , Wang Zhiwei , Jiang Yonghong , Su Huihui , Yang Zhandong
Published: May 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide, nevertheless, its prognostic prediction remains obscure. Necroptosis is a tightly regulated form of cell death, which has been recently reported to be involved in HCC. However, the prognostic value of necroptosis-related genes (NRGs) in HCC has not been reported. In the present study, 159 NRGs of HCC subjects from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort were downloaded and investigated. Of which, a total of thirty-six NRGs were identified to be significantly differentially expressed. Through univariate and multivariate Cox proportional regression analysis, four NRGs (HSP90AA1, PPIA, SQSTM1 and USP21) were found to have the excellent prognostic capacity for HCC, which could clearly divide patients into high-risk and low-risk groups. Survival analysis showed that the overall survival of high-risk patients was significantly shorter than that of low-risk patients. The independent prognostic value of necroptosis-related features was further confirmed by Cox regression analysis, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the panel comprising HSP90AA1, PPIA, SQSTM1 and USP21 was 0.807. Furthermore, the prognostic value of these NRGs was verified in another cohort of HCC patients from the ICGC database. Herein, this study shows that a novel necroptosis-related gene signature could be developed for prognostic prediction of HCC in future, which may also provide insights into the prevention and treatment of this disease clinically.
False-positive incidental lesions detected on contrast-enhanced breast MRI: Clinical and Imaging Features
Authors: Alikhassi Afsaneh , Li Xuan , Au Frederick , Kulkarni Supriya , Ghai Sandeep , Grant Allison , FREITAS VIVIANNE
Published: May 2022

Purpose
To identify features of the incidental MRI-detected enhancing lesions associated with false-positive outcomes, impacting patient care.
Methods
Institutional review board-approved retrospective imaging studies and patient's chart review of consecutive asymptomatic women with incidental MRI enhancing lesions detected between January-December 2018, who underwent MRI-guided biopsy. Lesions' frequency and imaging features were recorded, differentiating benign and high-risk lesions. The results were correlated with histopathology as the ground truth or uneventful follow-up of at least one year. Univariate analysis explored correlation between baseline variables and false-positive results.
Results
Two-hundred-nineteen women (median age, 49 years; range, 26–85 years) with 219 incidental MRI enhancing lesions that underwent MRI-guided vacuum-assisted biopsy during the study period formed the study cohort. Out of 219, 180 lesions (82.2%) yielded benign pathology results, 137 benign (76%) and 43 high-risk (24%) outcomes. Variables associated with true-positive results were age OR 1.05 (CI 95%, 1.02–1.08), p = 0.0015, irregular compared with oval/round mass shape lesion OR 11.2 (CI 95%, 1.6–78.4), p = 0.015, and clumped/clustered ring compared with homogeneous non-mass enhancement OR 3.17 (CI 95%, 1.38–7.28), p < 0.0066. T2-hyperintense mass-lesion correlated to the false-positive result OR 0.13 (95% CI, 0.02–0.76), p = 0.024.
Conclusion
Young patients, oval/round mass-lesion shape, T2-hyperintense mass-lesion, and homogeneous pattern of non-mass enhancement showed the strongest association with false-positive results of incidental MRI enhancing lesions. It may impact the patient's management, suggesting follow-up rather than interventional procedure when these demographic/imaging parameters are present, consequently decreasing patient's anxiety and health care costs.
Pseudocirrhosis in Metastatic Breast Cancer in a Male Successfully Treated with Leuprorelin and Anastrozole Followed by Eribulin: A Case Report
Authors: Golzarian Hafez , DO Morgan Turnow , Mariam Alaha , DO Sidra Shah , DO Syed Haq , Hawkins Christopher , Pasley Benjamin , Sree Joseph , Aujla Rajpal
Published: May 2022

BackgroundThere are very few studies and cases in the literature describing metastatic breast cancer in the male population, accounting for less than 1% of all cases. Of those who have been reported, the vast majority fail to survive beyond 5 years from time of diagnosis. The lack of literature in this population makes it difficult for clinicians to foresee and prepare for upcoming complications in management. One of the more serious complications in managing metastatic breast cancer is the development of pseudocirrhosis, a frequent long-term side effect of chemotherapy and/or radiation typically seen in patients with malignancy in the liver.Case PresentationWe report the case of a 48-year-old male with a completely unremarkable family, medical, and social history other than a homozygous mutation in his MTHFR gene who was diagnosed with stage IV ER/PR-positive, HER-2/neu negative, BRCA1 and BRCA2-negative breast cancer with metastasis to bone, lung, and liver who was successfully treated with a regimen consisting of radiation, Denosumab, Leuprorelin, and Anastrozole. 8 years later since initiation of treatments, he continues to survive and undergo symptomatic management of long-term side-effects of his treatments.ConclusionsTo our knowledge this is the only reported case of metastatic breast cancer with pseudocirrhosis in a male patient. It is imperative to report this unique case to help increase awareness for clinicians managing other males with breast cancer. What makes this case even more reportable is the good outcome overall as our patient remains alive and well 8 years since time of diagnosis, a relatively difficult and rare feat to achieve in end-stage breast cancer.
The physique of Olympic athletes as a reflection of human physical variation: Implications for the study of adaptive evolution and the mapping of global sports potential
Authors: Grasgruber Pavel
Published: May 2022

In this study, we compared the basic body dimensions (height, weight, body mass index/BMI) of 19,662 male Olympians from 159 countries competing at the Summer Olympic Games 2000-2016. We hypothesized that the average physique of national Olympic teams reflects the predominant body type of their native populations, and the knowledge of such physical differences could find practical use in creating more rational programs of sports talent selection. The results demonstrate that the mean height of men’s Olympic teams is highly correlated with the mean height of young men in their native countries (r = 0.83, p < 0.001), and the Olympic means of BMI characteristically cluster at the regional level. This geographical trend in the Olympic BMI values remarkably agrees with the documented body composition of human populations, and identifies Polynesians as the group with the most robust body build, followed by Micronesians and Melanesians. The biological validity of these results is further supported by their highly significant relationships with genetic and climatic factors. These findings suggest that the physique of Olympic athletes can be used for the study of human physical variation and evolutionary ecological rules. Based on these data, it is also possible to identify the global sports potential and the spectrum of sports in which each country has the greatest chance of international success.
DNA Sequence is Critically Involved in the Compact Assembly of Chromatin Arrays
Authors: Lyubchenko Yuri , Wang Yaqing , Stormberg Thomas , Hashemi Mohtadin , Kolomeisky Anatoly
Published: May 2022

The organization of the nucleosome array is a critical component of chromatin assembly as well as its function. Here we investigated the contribution of DNA sequence and internucleosomal interactions to the organization of nucleosomal arrays using Atomic Force Microscopy. We assembled nucleosomes on DNA substrates allowing for the formation of tetranucleosomes. We found that nucleosomes are capable of forming constructs with no discernible space between them, even in the case of dinucleosomes. Simulated assembly of tetranucleosomes by random placement revealed that array compaction is promoted by internucleosomal interactions. We developed a theoretical model to account for the role of DNA sequence and internucleosomal interactions in the formation of nucleosome structures. These findings suggest that the affinity of nucleosomes to the DNA sequence and the strengths of internucleosomal interactions are the two major factors defining the compactness of chromatin.
Effet d’un didacticiel pour l’apprentissage du langage SQL sur les résultats et la satisfaction des apprenants
Authors: Farza Lynda
Published: May 2022

Dans cet article, nous présentons les résultats d’une étude sur l’effet d’un didacticiel que nous avons développé en nous inspirant des stratégies du modèle de motivation ARCS de Keller et destiné à l’apprentissage du langage SQL. Cette étude a concerné 92 étudiants de filières non informatiques répartis en deux groupes : un groupe expérimental ayant suivi l’enseignement du langage SQL en ayant recours au didacticiel que nous avons nommé SQLAlgebraCourse et un groupe contrôle qui n’a pas eu recours au didacticiel. Les résultats de cette étude ont montré que les étudiants du groupe expérimental ont eu un rendement meilleur et ont été, pour la plupart, satisfaits des avantages procurés par l’utilisation du didacticiel.
Shouting in the Kenyan Space: Can Spaceteam ESL Improve L2 Learners’ Oral Reading Fluency?
Authors: Cardoso Walcir , Waddington David , Sénécal Anne-Marie , Kiforo Enos , Anyango Linah , Karanja Dickson K.
Published: May 2022

This study examined the effects of Spaceteam ESL, a digital shouting game, on the development of oral reading fluency (ORF) among 71 English as a second language (ESL) students in three primary and secondary schools in Mombasa, Kenya. Following a mixed-methods approach for data collection and analysis, we pre-tested and post-tested the participants on their ability to read aloud efficiently (speed) and accurately (accuracy) in three tasks: (1) phrases extracted from the game; (2) phrases not related to the game; and (3) a short anecdote. Paired-samples t-tests results revealed that, as hypothesized, participants who played Spaceteam ESL improved their ORF on measures of speed on all tasks, possibly because of the fast-paced nature of the game. However, no significant differences were observed in terms of accuracy due to a ceiling effect: the participants had already mastered the intricacies of the letter-to-sound rules of English orthography. Overall, these findings corroborate our hypothesis that some of the affordances of Spaceteam ESL (e.g., focus on speed reading, multiple and varied opportunities for practice) could contribute to the development of some aspects of oral reading fluency.
Inhomogeneous quantum quenches in the sine-Gordon theory
Authors: Horvath David , Sotiriadis Spyros , Kormos Márton , Takacs Gabor
Published: May 2022

We study inhomogeneous quantum quenches in the attractive regime of the sine--Gordon model. In our protocol, the system is prepared in an inhomogeneous initial state in finite volume by coupling the topological charge density operator to a Gaussian external field. After switching off the external field, the subsequent time evolution is governed by the homogeneous sine--Gordon Hamiltonian. Varying either the interaction strength of the sine--Gordon model or the amplitude of the external source field, an interesting transition is observed in the expectation value of the soliton density. This affects both the initial profile of the density and its time evolution and can be summarised as a steep transition between behaviours reminiscent of the Klein--Gordon, and the free massive Dirac fermion theory with initial external fields of high enough magnitude. The transition in the initial state is also displayed by the classical sine--Gordon theory and hence can be understood by semi-classical considerations in terms of the presence of small amplitude field configurations and the appearance of soliton excitations, which are naturally associated with bosonic and fermionic excitations on the quantum level, respectively. Features of the quantum dynamics are also consistent with this correspondence and comparing them to the classical evolution of the density profile reveals that quantum effects become markedly pronounced during the time evolution. These results suggest a crossover between the dominance of bosonic and fermionic degrees of freedom whose precise identification in terms of the fundamental particle excitations can be rather non-trivial. Nevertheless, their interplay is expected to influence the sine--Gordon dynamics in arbitrary inhomogeneous settings.
The role of awareness in predicting the intention of microfinance entrepreneurs to buy microinsurance services in Yemen
Authors: Alzain Elham , Saleh Alshebami Ali
Published: May 2022

The study looks into the role of microinsurance awareness in predicting microfinance entrepreneurs’ intentions to purchase microinsurance in Yemen. It is based on a survey of 201 microfinance entrepreneurs who received loans from Yemen’s National Microfinance Foundation (NMF) for various purposes. The analysis and hypothesis testing used PLS-SEM. Along with additional tests regression analysis was employed to examine the effect among the study variables. According to the results, microinsurance awareness and the intention of microfinance entrepreneurs in Yemen to acquire microinsurance services were found to have a significant positive association. The study specifically demonstrated the potential of microinsurance awareness to predict the desire of around 17% of microfinance entrepreneurs to purchase microinsurance services. The study proposes focusing more on increasing microinsurance awareness among microfinance entrepreneurs to attain optimal benefits. The sample size of the prospective study could be expanded to include more microfinance organizations. It could also investigate the role of formal and informal institutions in the country’s acceptance or rejection of microinsurance services.
The Relationship between Adverse Life Experiences in Childhood and Unhealthy Eating Behavior in Adulthood: A Literature Review
Authors: Samy Marina, Nagy Sabry
Published: May 2022

The manuscript is simply discussing several forms of adverse childhood experiences (ACE) and their negative impact on children. ACE may contribute to the development of eating disorders (ED) that mostly appear during adolescence, and if untreated earlier, children will suffer ED chronically. Undoubtedly, we are humans that make mistakes, and such mistakes may be stressful to others. Also, life is not so easy; it involves difficulties as well as enjoyment. Thus, in this study, the author analyzed the stressful conditions that occur in childhood and their negative impact on human behaviour that can be developed into many disorders such as eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and others. The author used the methodology of searching articles published between 1990 and till present. The authors investigated the factors that play a role in the appearance of such disorders such as culture, media, genetics, upbringing, environment, peers, school, and others. The severity of disorders depends on the intensity, harshness, and frequency of ACE. Moreover, the relative relationship between the child and the one who harmed him plays a significant role in the severity of disorders. Studies proved that treatment of disorders is not impossible, and relief can occur.
Exploring Nigeria Annual Budgets and Health Sector Budget Provisions towards Attainment of Universal Health Coverage Amid the Covid-19 Pandemic Preparedness
Authors: Eneh Gloria Nonyelum
Published: May 2022

The Covid-19 outbreak is currently having a significant impact on the health and economic growth of the World. This study explored the trend in Nigeria’s annual budget from 2016 to 2020, the assumptions for these annual budgets, the budget allocations to the Health Sector and the policy measures in place for health emergencies. The mixed-method approach was used and involved key informant interviews of 30 employees and 30 top management officials across the Federal Ministries of Health and Finance using a structured interview guide. There were also desk reviews of documents in public domains and government published financial and budget data at global and national levels. The findings reveal that Nigeria has continued to increase her annual budget without much improvement in her revenue position. The key assumptions on which the various annual budgets were based were distinct, and none envisaged the Covid-19 pandemic and its aftermath. On health sector allocation, the Federal Government of Nigeria lays little emphasis on efforts towards the attainment of UHC and emergency health events. The government ensured that health care financing policies and provisions are in place. However, the adequacy of those policies and provisions needs to be improved upon. The past spending pattern between 2016 and 2020 shows that these policies are not directed at closing the scary gap that makes ordinary Nigerians suffer from the overwhelming cost of healthcare. This includes a lack of attention to the basic health fund and funds for emergencies, probably due to inadequate political will and commitment to health.
New E-Technologies and Practices Adoption Framework (Ne-TPAF) Dealing with the Crucial Times
Authors: Namabira Judith
Published: May 2022

The study investigates into the factors influencing the adoption of e-HRM technologies in order to propose a framework for the adoption of new e-technologies and practices during critical times of disruption, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity, as is with the case of the Covid-19 pandemic. Through the identification of the factors that influence the adoption of e-HRM technologies in one of the biggest commercial banks in Tanzania, the paper proposes a new e-Technologies and Practices Adoption Framework (Ne-TPAF) in order to promote the adoption of new e-technologies and practices during and after the abnormal times.
Information Overload and the Role of Librarians in Information Dissemination in Tertiary Institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria
Authors: S Ebaye, A
Published: May 2022

The advancement in “technology” has brought with it an information explosion causing excessive information everywhere. Hence, there is a huge amount of information resulting in information overload. Information overload is being experienced everywhere, in public and private organizations, institutions, government officers, information users, individuals and so on. This study, therefore, attempts to examine the causes of information overload and the role of librarians in information dissemination in tertiary institutions in Cross River State, Nigeria. Seventy-two (72) librarians from tertiary institutions in the state were used as the population for the study. A structured questionnaire was developed by the researchers for data collection. Data collected was analyzed using mean and standard deviation. The result revealed that receiving repetitive massages, an explosion in the volume of information sources, and the advent of technological innovation, among others, are the major causes of information overload. The study also revealed that SDI, e-SDI, referral services, and CAS are the major ways through which librarians can disseminate information promptly to users. The study further revealed that information filtering, and information withdrawal, among others, are the major strategies used by librarians in Cross River state to improve and remedy information overload. Based on the findings, it was recommended, among others, that librarians and information professionals should provide effective and innovative ways/strategies for tackling the problem of information overload.
Performance Appraisal System and its Implication on Employee Performance: A Study of Zambia Revenue Authority
Authors: Kasongo Kausa Josephine
Published: May 2022

Performance appraisal systems used by a multitude of organisations globally should pose a major concern to all who use this employee evaluation process. This is mainly because performance appraisals do have an effect on employees. Whether this effect is for good or bad is the primary goal of this paper. Using data from a named organisation, the study will strive to determine whether the performance appraisal methods of that organisation have indeed had intrinsic effects on the performance of individual employees and whether this has indeed trickled down to the entire organisation as a whole. Both quantitative and qualitative research approaches were chosen as a primary and secondary data source. Questionnaires and interviews were used for primary data collection. Secondary data were collected from different articles, books, and online sources as well as the organisation under consideration. The results showed that, indeed, inherent in a performance appraisal system may be factors that need special attention if it is to work out for the benefit of the organisation. Whereas the procedures of the system may in themselves be very beneficial, the implementation thereof may be lacking and expose holes that may need to be filled from top management, middle management, and supervisees alike in order for the organisation as a whole to realise the full benefit of the performance appraisal system. The researcher recommended that the organisation take these factors into consideration if they are to achieve organisational objectives and goals.
Sorption of copper(II) ions from aqueous solution by activated carbon BAU-A and coal sorbent MIU-S. The relationship between the structure of sorbents and their sorption properties
Authors: Linnikov О. D. , Rodina I. V. , Baklanova I. V. , Suntsov A. Yu. , Tyutyunnik A. P.
Published: May 2022

The sorption of copper(II) ions in a wide range of pH by two Russian carbon sorbents BAU-A and MIU-S was studied. Sorbents varied in structure, surface area, pH of the point of zero charge (pHZPC), and graphitization degree. The sorption studies were conducted in batch mode. The removal of copper(II) ions from a solution at pH 4, 5, 6, and 6.7 is described by the classical adsorption isotherms of Freundlich, Langmuir, and Dubinin–Radushkevich. With an increase in pH from 4 to 6.7, the sorption capacity of sorbents increases, from 0.910 to 7.163 mg/g for BAU-A, and from 0.265 to 3.307 mg/g for MIU-S. The relationship between the degree of crystallinity and the sorption properties of sorbents has been established.
Atípusos femurtörések összefüggése a hosszantartó biszfoszfonát terápiával
Authors: Csonka Ákos , Dózsai Dávid , Gárgyán István , Varga Endre
Published: May 2022

Az atípusos femurtörés kialakulását elsősorban a hosszantartó biszfoszfonát (BP) kezeléssel hozzák összefüggésbe, de létrejöttében egyéb tényezők is szerepet játszhatnak. Retrospektív tanulmányunkban, 2013. január 1. és 2019. december 31. közötti időszakot feldolgozva, 30 esetben észleltünk atípusos femurtörést. Az eseteket a BP alkalmazása alapján két csoportra osztottuk: I. BP-t nem használók és II. BP-t használók. A II. csoportot további két alcsoportra osztottuk a terápia időtartamának megfelelően, IIa (< 5év BP) és IIb (> 5 év BP). A II. csoportnál a törésgyógyulási idő hosszabbnak bizonyult (7 ± 4.9 hónap) az I. csoporthoz (5.8 ± 4.6 hónap, p = 0.24) képest. 17 esetben (57%) észleltünk elhúzódó törésgyógyulást (> 6 hónap), amelyek közül 11 esetben igazolódott BP használat (64%). A IIb csoportnál (9.1±5.1 hónap) a törésgyógyulás időtartama szignifikánsan meghaladta a IIa csoportét (5.6±3.4 hónap, p = 0.03). Elhúzódó törésgyógyulás a IIb csoportban 6 esetnél, a IIa csoportban 3 esetnél jelentkezett (p = 0.19). Bilateralis törés 6 betegnél jött létre, amelyek közül 5 alkalmazott BP-t és tartozott a II. csoporthoz (p= 0.26). A bilateralis törésmegjelenés szempontjából szignifikáns különbséget a IIa és IIb csoport között nem észleltünk (p = 0.38). Öt atípusos femurtörött beteg esetén nem találtunk olyan rizikófaktort, amely összefüggésbe hozható a törés kialakulásával. Eredményeink alapján megállapíthatjuk, hogy a hosszú távú BP terápia (>5 év) elhúzódó törésgyógyulást okozhat, megnövelheti a bilateralis törések létrejöttét és az atípusos törés incidenciáját.
South African Renal Registry Annual Report 2019
Authors: Davids M Razeen , Jardine Thabiet , Marais Nicola , Sebastian Sajith , Davids Thaabit , Jacobs Julian C
Published: May 2022

The eighth annual report of the South African Renal Registry summarises the 2019 data on kidney replacement therapy (KRT) for patients with kidney failure in South Africa. This round of data collection has been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has impacted on the completeness of the data. In December 2019, the number of patients who were being treated with chronic dialysis or transplantation stood at 9 937, a prevalence of 169 per million population (pmp). The prevalence in South Africans accessing the private healthcare sector was 788 pmp, whereas it was 57 pmp in the chronically under-resourced public sector, still below the rate reported for 1994.
Impact of Hippocampal Avoidance – Prophylactic Cranial Irradiation in Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: MARAGKOUDAKIS EMMANOUIL , KOULOULIAS VASILEIOS , GRENZELIA MARIA , KOUGIOUMTZOPOULOU ANDROMACHI , ZYGOGIANNI ANNA , RAMFIDIS VASILEIOS , CHARPIDOU ANDRIANNI
Published: May 2022

Background/Aim: Prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) is a well-established treatment of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients following response to initial chemoradiotherapy. The benefit of PCI does, however, come at the cost of cognitive decline. This has been attributed to radiation-induced toxicity at the hippocampus, a crucial anatomic area for cognition. Modern radiotherapy techniques allow dose reduction at the hippocampal region. In this review, the safety profile, effect on cognition, and changes on brain imaging modalities of hippocampal avoidance-PCI (HA-PCI) will be presented, aiming to identify a potential clinical rationale for SCLC patients. Materials and Methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed in Pubmed, Cochrane library databases and ClinicalTrials.gov with no past date limitations until 07/01/2022. Principles as outlined in the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement were followed. Results: Eight studies published from 2015 to 2021 were included. Conclusion: HA-PCI is safe, yet its effect on neurocognition and imaging remains unclear, as studies have shown contradictory results.
Intra-tumoral FGFR2 Expression Predicts Prognosis and Chemotherapy Response in Advanced HER2-positive Gastric Cancer Patients
Authors: NAKAMURA NAOHIKO , KAIDA DAISUKE , TOMITA YASUTO , MIYATA TAKASHI , MIYASHITA TOMOHARU , FUJITA HIDETO , KINAMI SHINICHI , UEDA NOBUHIKO , TAKAMURA HIROYUKI
Published: May 2022

Background/Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between clinical outcomes and intra-tumoral fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) expression in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-positive gastric cancer (GC) patients who had undergone HER2-targeted chemotherapy. Patients and Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed in 22 patients with HER2-positive GC, who had undergone systemic chemotherapy. We performed immunohistochemistry staining of FGFR2 expression using surgically resected specimens or biopsied samples and evaluated clinicopathological characteristic and overall survival (OS) in the FGFR2-negative and -positive GC groups. Results: A total of 8 and 14 patients were placed in the FGFR2-negative and -positive group, respectively. The median OS rates were 56.2 and 16.0 months in the FGFR2-negative and -positive groups, respectively. The FGFR2-negative group had a significantly better prognosis after HER2-targeted chemotherapy [p=0.027 (log-rank test)]. The univariate analysis revealed that performing gastrectomy, response to combination chemotherapy with trastuzumab, and FGFR2 positivity were significantly correlated with OS. In a multivariate analysis, the response to combination chemotherapy with trastuzumab (p=0.008) was significantly correlated with OS. In addition, the proportions of patients who showed CR or PR in response to chemotherapy were 87.5 and 42.9% in the FGFR2-negative and -positive groups, respectively (p=0.031). Conclusion: HER2-positive GC patients, without overexpression of FGFR2, exhibited an improved prognosis and response rate to trastuzumab combination chemotherapy. Assessment of intra-tumoral FGFR2 expression could be helpful in predicting the prognosis and response to trastuzumab in HER2-positive GC patients.
Dysplastic Crypts in Asymmetric Branching in Ulcerative Colitis: A Preliminary Report
Authors: RUBIO CARLOS A. , VIETH MICHAEL , LANG-SCHWARZ CORINNA
Published: May 2022

Aim: To report the detection of dysplastic crypts in asymmetric branching (DCAB) in biopsies from patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). Patients and Methods: One hundred consecutive endoscopic biopsies from patients with UC undergoing surveillance were reviewed. Results: Three biopsy/cases showed DCAB. The frequency of DCAB varied from two in one case, three in another case, and five in the remaining case. Conclusion: The final outcome of DCAB is to generate two or more dysplastic asymmetric offspring-crypts. Repeated DCAB offspring formation, together with new DCAB, would boost the pool of dysplastic crypts, resulting in an exponential expansion of the mucosal area occupied by dysplasia in UC.