bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ezrin as a prognostic indicator regulates colon adenocarinoma progression through glycolysis
Authors: Wang Yixuan , Yang Yang , Wang Xinyue , Jin Tiefeng , Zhu Guang , Lin Zhenhua
Published: July 2020

Background and Aim

Aerobic glycolysis (the Warburg effect) is a distinctive metabolic hallmark of colon adenocarcinoma. Ezrin was a member of the Ezrin–Radixin–Moesin protein family and has been found profoundly implicated in tumorigenesis. However, the specific functional roles of Ezrin in metabolic reprogramming of colon adenocarcinoma remain poorly characterized and need to be explored.

Methods

The expression of Ezrin in colon adenocarcinoma tissues was screened by bioinformatics analysis and immunohistochemical assay. Si‐RNA‐mediated transfection and overexpression plasmid transfection were performed in colon adenocarcinoma cells. The proliferation viability was measured using MTT, colony formation, and EdU assays. The migration ability was determined using wound healing and transwell assay. The expression of EMT markers and transcriptional factors was detected using immunofluorescence staining and western blot assays. Glucose uptake, lactate production, and ATP assay were performed to validate the effect of Ezrin on glycolysis‐mediated colon adenocarcinoma progression.

Results

Ezrin was upregulated in colon adenocarcinoma tissues and associated with poor survival. Ezrin stimulated colon adenocarcinoma cell proliferation, migration, and the process of EMT. Ezrin aroused significant increase in glucose uptake, lactate production, and ATP level in colon adenocarcinoma cells. Further investigations demonstrated that treatment with a glycolytic inhibitor 2‐deoxy‐d‐glucose reversed the effects reduced by Ezrin on colon adenocarcinoma cells.

Conclusions

Our results evidenced a novel mechanism for colon adenocarcinoma cells proliferation and migration induced by Ezrin via glycolysis.
Recruitment Challenges for Low‐Risk Health System Intervention Trials in Older Adults: A Case Study
Authors: Anzuoni Kathryn , Field Terry S. , Mazor Kathleen M. , Zhou Yanhua , Garber Lawrence D. , Kapoor Alok , Gurwitz Jerry H.
Published: July 2020

OBJECTIVE

To assess factors associated with trial participation in the context of a low‐risk intervention intended to reduce adverse drug events in recently hospitalized older adults.

DESIGN

Mixed methods: analysis of data collected during enrollment efforts and focus groups.

SETTING

A large, multispecialty group practice.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals 50 years and older, recently discharged from the hospital and prescribed at least one high‐risk medication, were eligible for the trial. Enrollees, decliners, and their caregivers were eligible to participate in focus groups.

MEASUREMENTS

Reasons for declining to participate during the initial invitation as well as reasons for not providing consent were recorded. Focus groups were conducted with eligible individuals to explore reasons for enrolling or declining. We conducted multivariable logistic regression to compare characteristics (including sex, age, healthcare proxy, number and type of medications, visiting nurse services, reason for admission, and length of hospital stay) of those who enrolled with those who did not enroll.

RESULTS

Of 3,606 individuals determined eligible, 3,147 (87%) declined, 98 (3%) verbally consented to participate but did not complete written consent, and 361 (10%) provided written consent and were considered enrolled. Individuals 80 year and older (odds ratio (OR) = 0.44; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.30–0.65) and those with visiting nurse services (OR = 0.64; 95% CI = 0.48–0.85) were least likely to enroll. Among those who provided a reason for declining (2,473), the most common was the belief they did not need additional medication assistance (18%). Another 332 (11%) declined because they were receiving visiting nurse services.

CONCLUSION

Recruiting older adults recently discharged from the hospital to participate in trials of low‐risk, system‐level interventions is challenging and may underenroll the oldest individuals and those potentially at the highest risk for adverse events, limiting generalizability of study findings. Alternative study designs may be more effective than individually randomized trials in assessing low‐risk, system‐level interventions.
In‐Hospital Mortality Rates in Older Patients with COVID‐19
Authors: Mahiat Cédric , de Terwangne Christophe , Henrard Séverine , Boland Benoit
Published: July 2020

See the Reply from Huang et al.

See the Reply by Sun et al.
An herbal cream reduces erythema of sensitive skin
Authors: Zhang Yuanjin , Jin Yumei , Humbert Philippe , Fan Xiaoqing , Cha Yusi , Guo Yanni , He Li
Published: July 2020

Background

Sensitive skin manifests itself as a syndrome defined by the occurrence of unpleasant sensations such as stinging, burning, and pruritus. Though not life‐threatening, it can negatively impact the quality of people's lives because of symptoms and clinical signs. Although some skin care products can alleviate symptoms of sensitive skin, a product that can improve multiple abnormalities of sensitive skin are largely unavailable.

Aims

To assess the efficacy of a newly developed herbal cream in reducing erythema.

Methods

A randomized double‐blind and self‐controlled trial was carried out on a total of 35 volunteers. The test cream (A) was applied topically to one side of the face twice‐daily, while the control cream (B) was applied to the other side of the face. Parameters were evaluated prior to, 14, and 28 days after topical applications. Primary endpoints included changes in erythema area, erythema index (EI), and a* value. Transepidermal water loss rates (TEWL), stratum corneum (SC) hydration, and lactic acid sting test (LAST) score, as well as the L* value, served as secondary endpoints.

Result

Treatments with either cream A or B markedly reduced erythema area, EI, and a* value. Significant reductions in both TEWL and L* value were also observed following topical applications of either cream A or B. Moreover, cream A decreased LAST score. Finally, the satisfaction rate of cream A was higher than that of cream B.

Conclusion

The new herbal cream improves cutaneous biophysical properties in subjects with sensitive skin, especially in reducing erythema.
SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW OF TOURISM GROWTH NEXUS: AN OVERVIEW OF THE LITERATURE AND A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF 100 MOST INFLUENTIAL PAPERS
Authors: Ahmad Nisar , Menegaki Angeliki N. , Al‐Muharrami Saeed
Published: July 2020

This study performs the first citation‐based systematic literature review of the tourism‐growth nexus. The citation analysis provides a bird's eye view of this literature, which, in turn, identifies the sources of knowledge in terms of most influential journals, authors, and articles. A detailed content analysis of 100 most influential papers has been generated on the nature of the study, variables used, country of analysis, type of analysis, the methodology, and the direction of causality. In total, 284 papers were found relevant in the Scopus database using a comprehensive list of keywords. The citation analysis reveals that Tourism Management is the leading journal with a total of 2527 citation counts, whereas Tourism Economics is the leading journal with a total of 41 publications on this topic. Juan Gabriel Brida is the most prolific author, whereas Lee and Chang (2008) is recognized as the most influential paper. The content analysis reveals that 58% have applied time series, and 38% have used panel data analysis. Tourism causing growth is the leading result of both time‐series and panel studies. International tourism receipts/earnings/expenditure and the number of international tourist arrivals are the most widely used variables to measure tourism.
Better together: Joint consideration of anatomy and morphology illuminates the architecture and life history of the Carboniferous arborescent lycopsid Paralycopodites
Authors: DiMichele William A. , Bateman Richard M.
Published: July 2020

Paralycopodites Morey & Morey, a Carboniferous‐age arboreous lycopsid that grew in the tropical wetlands of Pangea, is the phylogenetically basalmost member of the Carboniferous stigmarian lycopsids to be conceptually reconstructed. We update its description through reciprocal illumination between anatomy (coal‐balls) and gross morphology (adpressions). Revised assessment of its architecture and development shows that the determinate, columnar main trunk eventually underwent several isotomous divisions to form a crown. Two opposite rows of closely‐spaced, compact lateral branches were initiated anisotomously throughout the trunk and crown, each branch further undergoing multiple anisotomous divisions to form an apparently planar scaffold for numerous bisporangiate cones. We infer that branches were initially emitted near‐vertically, but rapidly moved to a more horizontal position; they were abscised after the cones had matured but before the continuous phellogen had produced a centripetal periderm. Leaves were not abscised, though anatomy and morphology both suggest a photosynthetic economy that was localized within the plant body. Character content and clarity of interpretation make Paralycopodites the preferred name for the reconstructed plant rather than Anabathra, Ulodendron, or Bergeria. Phylogenetic analysis of rhizomorphic lycopsids based on a reduced spectrum of features observable in adpression returns the same topology as that based on a full matrix combining both anatomical and externally visible traits, permitting adpression fossils to be assigned to anatomically‐circumscribed genera rather than perpetuating an unnecessary parallel taxonomy.
Contrasting patterns of phylogenetic diversity across climatic zones of Western Ghats: A biodiversity hotspot in peninsular India
Authors: B. Divya , B.R. Ramesh , Karanth K. Praveen
Published: July 2020

This study attempts to understand the biogeographic history of the Western Ghats forests by investigating decoupling between phylogenetic and taxonomic diversity. We specifically test whether the deciduous forests have been recently established, whether the southern region was a refuge, and whether the deciduous and evergreen forest species have disparate evolutionary histories. We used species composition data from 23 forest types along the Western Ghats for all woody angiosperms above 10‐cm diameter at breast height. Forests were broadly grouped as either evergreen or deciduous. Mean phylogenetic distances corrected for species richness and mean phylogenetic beta diversity corrected for shared species were assessed using z‐scores from null distributions. Null distributions were generated by randomizing the species relationships on the phylogeny. We found that all evergreen forests showed a greater phylogenetic diversity as compared with null expectations. Deciduous forests showed the inverse pattern. Within the evergreen belt, there was a decreasing phylogenetic diversity from south to north, as predicted by the southern refuge hypothesis. The phylogenetic beta diversity across evergreen–deciduous forests was lesser than the null expectation, whereas it was much higher across forests within the evergreen belt. This study provides the first phylogenetic evidence for the antiquity of evergreen forests as well as the southern refuge hypothesis in the Western Ghats. The deciduous forests species have shared evolutionary histories with the evergreen forest species, suggesting multiple shifts between evergreen and deciduous states through the lineages. Conversely, the evergreen species exhibited a disparate evolutionary history across these forests, possibly owing to sharper ecological or climatic gradients.
Antimicrobial drug residues in animal‐derived foods: Potential impact on the human intestinal microbiome
Authors: Piñeiro Silvia Aurora , Cerniglia Carl Edward
Published: July 2020

The use of veterinary drugs in food‐producing animals may result in the presence of low levels of drug residues in these edible, animal‐derived foods, with potential dietary exposure to humans. Since therapeutic doses of antibiotics have been shown to affect bacterial populations in the gastrointestinal tract microbiome and can also promote the emergence of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria, there is concern that animal drugs at residue level concentrations could also perturb the intestinal microbiome composition and modify the antimicrobial resistance profile of the human intestinal microbiota. This review provides updated information on the VICH GL#36(R2), on evaluating the safety of veterinary drug residues in animal‐derived foods and their effects on the human intestinal microbiome; discusses critical research knowledge gaps and challenges in evaluating the impact of drug residues in animal‐derived foods on the human intestinal microbiome; and analyzes integrated basic and applied research approaches, currently being conducted at FDA, on studies that specifically address key regulatory science questions. Moreover, this review aims to emphasize future research needs on scientific methodology and provides general recommendations on drug inactivation, bioavailability, and antimicrobial resistance, to improve the safety evaluation and risk assessment of antimicrobial residues and their impact on the gastrointestinal microbiota, with the goal of ensuring food safety.
Utilizing Meta‐Analyses to Guide Practice: A Primer
Authors: Therrien William J. , Cook Bryan G. , Cook Lysandra
Published: July 2020

Meta‐analysis is one approach for synthesizing research studies to identify generally effective instructional practices for students with learning disabilities (LD). In this article, we define core components of meta‐analytic literature reviews, discuss how to interpret findings from meta‐analyses, and provide guidelines for how research consumers can utilize meta‐analyses to guide instructional practices for students with LD. We conclude that meta‐analyses provide valuable information for determining evidence‐based practices for students with LD.
R&D cooperation, proximity and distribution of public funding between public and private research sectors
Authors: Cabon‐Dhersin Marie‐Laure , Gibert Romain
Published: July 2020

In this paper, we compare the distributions of socially optimal public funding between private and public research sectors in cooperative and noncooperative R&D settings in the presence of externalities. We show that the proportion of public funding allocated to the private sector research always increases with the level of inter‐firm spillovers but decreases with the concentration of the industry. This share is smaller (larger) when firms cooperate in R&D than when they do not for high (low) spillovers. Moreover, increases in public knowledge externalities to the private sector due to a closer proximity (distance) between the two research sectors increase the share allocated to the public sector regardless of whether firms cooperate or not in R&D.
The effect of treated apical periodontitis before heart valve surgery on C‐reactive protein levels
Authors: Alim Betul Aycan , Canturk Emir , Koksal Cengiz
Published: July 2020

Objective

Dental infections produce significant increases in systemic inflammatory responses manifested by cytokines and acute‐phase reactants. This study evaluated the postoperative C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels according to patients having teeth treated or not treated for apical periodontitis (AP) before heart valve surgery.

Materials and Methods

Preoperative, postoperative third‐ and fifth‐day CRP levels, and the previous dental data of 91 patients were investigated. Whether the patients had been treated for AP and whether they used antibiotic prophylaxis for this treatment were determined by examining the previous data. The analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used for statistical analysis.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences in the preoperative CRP levels and the third‐day CRP levels between all patients treated and those not treated for AP (p > .05). The mean fifth‐day CRP levels of the patients with teeth treated for AP were significantly lower than those of the patients with teeth not treated for AP (p < .05). Antibiotic prophylaxis had a significant effect on the fifth‐day CRP levels.

Conclusion

The decrease in CRP levels after AP treatment may contribute to alleviating heart valve disease and maintaining cardiac health.
New Classification and Its Value Evaluation for Atlantoaxial Dislocation
Authors: Mingsheng Tan , Long Gong , Ping Yi , Feng Yang , Xiangsheng Tang , Haoning Ma , Qinying Hao
Published: July 2020

Objective

To introduce the TOI classification system (the Traction reduction type [T type], Operation reduction type [O type], and Irreducible type [I type] classification system) and to determine the interobserver and intraobserver reliability of the TOI classification system.

Methods

Based on the characteristics of atlantoaxial dislocation (AAD), AAD was divided into Traction reduction type (T type), Operation reduction type (O type), and Irreducible type (I type). The analysis of interobserver and intraobserver agreements was done using kappa statistics. From July 2016 to January 2019, 213 AAD patients were retrospectively studied at four hospitals. Plain radiographs including extension and flexion views and three‐dimensional CT images were obtained. Twenty independent observers, including eight experienced spine specialists and 12 orthopaedic fellows from four different residency training hospitals, completed the survey.

Results

The classification of the TOI system was based on etiology, the course of the disease, flexion–extension X‐rays, three‐dimensional CT reconstruction, and curative effects of skull traction. Flexion–extension X‐rays demonstrating a successful reduction of the dislocated atlantoaxial joint and three‐dimensional CT images showing osseous fusion of atlantoaxial facet joints and cervical traction reveal characteristics of T‐type. Furthermore, this type can be divided into two subtypes, T1 and T2, according to the etiology and course of the disease. Unsatisfactorily reduction after 1–2 weeks of strict cervical traction, no reduction shown on flexion–extension X‐rays, and no destruction or boneless fusion of atlantoaxial facet joints demonstrated in three‐dimensional CT images are characteristics of type O. Atlantoaxial facet joint showing bone fusion or failure of reduction after cervical traction or three‐dimensional CT images showing failure of surgical release are characteristics of type I. Interobserver and intraobserver reliability of the TOI classification system were moderate (κ = 0.543) and substantial (κ = 0.658), respectively. Interobserver and intraobserver reliability of the treatment choice were moderate (κ = 0.568) and substantial (κ = 0.675), respectively. There were no significant differences in the interobserver and intraobserver reliability between experienced spine specialists and fellows for all κ‐values (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

The TOI classification system had satisfactory reliability and, therefore, can be applied clinically and used by less experienced surgeons. We believe TOI can help surgeons choose appropriate treatment strategies.
The Rise and Prominence of Skip‐Generation Households in Lower‐ and Middle‐Income Countries
Authors: Zimmer Zachary , Treleaven Emily
Published: July 2020

Investigations into changes in household formations across lower‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) rarely consider skip‐generation households. Yet, demographic, social, and economic forces increasingly encourage skip‐generation household formations. We examine trends and changes in the prevalence of skip‐generation households from 1990 to 2016, examining households, adults aged 60+, and children under 15, across 49 countries using household roster data from Demographic and Health Surveys. Analysis takes place in stages, first describing trends in skip‐generation households across countries and next providing explanatory analyses using multilevel modeling to assess whether, and the degree to which, country‐level characteristics like AIDS mortality and female labor force participation explain trends in the probability that a household is, or that an individual resides in, a skip‐generation household. Results indicate extensive increases in skip‐generation households in many LMICs, although there is also variation. The increases and variations are not well‐explained by the country‐level characteristics in our models, suggesting other underlying reasons for the rise and prominence of skip‐generation households across LMICs.
Inverse scattering transforms and soliton solutions of nonlocal reverse‐space nonlinear Schrödinger hierarchies
Authors: Ma Wen‐Xiu , Huang Yehui , Wang Fudong
Published: July 2020

The aim of the paper is to construct nonlocal reverse‐space nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) hierarchies through nonlocal group reductions of eigenvalue problems and generate their inverse scattering transforms and soliton solutions. The inverse scattering problems are formulated by Riemann‐Hilbert problems which determine generalized matrix Jost eigenfunctions. The Sokhotski‐Plemelj formula is used to transform the Riemann‐Hilbert problems into Gelfand‐Levitan‐Marchenko type integral equations. A solution formulation to special Riemann‐Hilbert problems with the identity jump matrix, corresponding to the reflectionless transforms, is presented and applied to ‐soliton solutions of the nonlocal NLS hierarchies.
Oral alterations and oral health‐related quality of life assessment in patients undergoing chemotherapy at a tertiary care center
Authors: Sahni Priya , Punyani Silky R. , Jain Sachin , Nayak Kailash C. , Charan Abhishek , Karwasra Kapil
Published: July 2020

Aims

This study was designed to assess the oral alterations and oral health related quality of life (OHRQoL) in patients undergoing chemotherapy for malignancies other than oral cancer.

Methods and results

Oral alterations were studied by careful clinical examination prior to and at the end of three cycles of chemotherapy in 100 patients. OHRQoL was assessed by oral health impact profile (OHIP)‐14 questionnaire. Fifty‐four patients developed oral complications among which oral mucositis and pigmentation were the most commonly observed. OHRQoL was hampered in all patients as indicated by higher postchemotherapy scores as compared to prechemotherapy scores (P < .0001). Postchemotherapy scores were higher for patients who developed visible oral changes as compared to those who did not (P = .001). There was a weak positive correlation between the number of oral alterations and postchemotherapy scores for OHRQoL.

Conclusions

Our study emphasizes the role of oral physicians in the healthcare team delivering chemotherapeutic treatment as regular oral examination, and timely symptomatic treatment is important for the overall well‐being of the patient.
Persistence and Change in Marriage Practices among Syrian Refugees in Jordan
Authors: Sieverding Maia , Krafft Caroline , Berri Nasma , Keo Caitlyn
Published: July 2020

Early marriage, which is associated with a wide range of negative health and socioeconomic outcomes, may be a response to conflict and displacement. Since the onset of the Syrian conflict in 2011, there has been considerable attention to reports of high and potentially increasing rates of early marriage among Syrian refugee women. Using nationally representative survey data from Jordan in 2016 and Syria in 2009, as well as qualitative interviews with Syrian refugee youth in Jordan, we examine changes in age at marriage and drivers of early marriage. We find no evidence of an increase in early marriage rates after refugees’ arrival to Jordan. Rates of early marriage among the Syrians now in Jordan were higher than preconflict national rates and have remained similar postdisplacement, although poverty and security concerns have created new drivers for accelerating marriage for young women. Other dynamics of the Syrian marriage market in displacement may act to decelerate marriage rates, including declining rates of consanguinity and inability to meet marriage costs. Analysis of early marriage in displacement must be placed within the context of change in marriage practices among refugees more broadly.
Effect of repeat transfusion exposure on plasma cytokine and markers of endothelial activation in the extremely preterm neonate
Authors: Crawford Tara M. , Andersen Chad C. , Stark Michael J.
Published: July 2020

Background

Very preterm newborns receive up to three to five red blood cell (RBC) transfusions, often early, after birth. Despite awareness of the association of transfusion with increases in cytokines and markers of endothelial activation, research has focused on single transfusions weeks after birth. With pathophysiologic processes contributing to the development of morbidities starting soon after delivery, we investigated the response to early, repeated transfusion exposure.

Study design and methods

Three consecutive transfusion exposures were studied in transfusion‐naive infants less than 30 weeks’ gestation (n = 46). Plasma cytokines and markers of endothelial activation were measured before and 2 to 4 hours after transfusion by multiplex enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The median (IQR) age was 3 (1‐9) days at first transfusion, 7 (3‐20) days at the second, and 18 (7‐28) days at the third. Baseline concentrations did not differ between the three transfusions. Interleukin (IL)‐17A and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α did not change after the first transfusion but increased after the second (P < .05) and third transfusions (P < .01). While IL‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐8 concentrations did not differ after the first and second transfusions, all increased after the third (IL‐1β, P < .01; IL‐6, P < .01; IL‐8, P < .05). The magnitude of posttransfusion increase in IL‐1β, IL‐17A, and TNF‐α increased between the first and third transfusion exposure.

Conclusion

Early, repeated transfusion results in alterations in proinflammatory cytokines and markers of endothelial activation in the very preterm newborn and suggests that the potential for transfusion‐related immunomodulation is present in the initial days after birth rather than confined to later in the postnatal period.
Decreased expression of miR‐24 in peripheral plasma of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients associated with diabetic foot ulcer
Authors: Li Xueting , Tang Ying , Jia Zeguo , Zhao Xiaotong , Chen Mingwei
Published: July 2020

To examine the correlations of miR‐24 expression in peripheral plasma with the onset of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) and diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients and explore the clinical value of miR‐24 as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis and treatment outcomes of DFU and DFO, a total of 60 newly diagnosed T2DM patients without DFU (T2DM group), 112 T2DM patients with DFU (DFU group), and 60 healthy controls (NC group) were included. DFU group were further divided into DFO group (n = 64) and non‐DFO group (n = 48). MiR‐24 levels were determined by quantitative real‐time PCR, while clinical features and risk factors of DFU and DFO were explored. The expression level of miR‐24 in T2DM and DFU group was significantly lower than in NC group (P < .05), and that in DFU group was significantly lower than in T2DM group (P < .01). Additionally, the level of miR‐24 significantly decreased in DFO group compared to non‐DFO group (P < .01). Moreover, it was negatively correlated with the amputation rate in DFU group (P = .043) and positively correlated with healing rate after 8 weeks (P = .036). The multivariate logistic regression analysis confirmed that a low expression of miR‐24 was an independent risk factor for DFU and DFO. The ROC curve analysis indicated that the AUC of miR‐24 for the diagnosis of DFU and DFO was 0.849 (95% CI, 0.618‐0.879, P < .001) and 0.782 (95% CI, 0.595‐0.813, P < .001). Thus, a decreased expression of miR‐24 of T2DM patients was closely related to the occurrence, development and prognosis of DFU and DFO, suggesting the use of miR‐24 as a potential biomarker for the prediction of DFU and DFO.
Kindergarten Teacher Training in Slovakia in the International Context
Authors: Baďuríková Zita
Published: July 2020

Preparatory kindergarten teacher training in European states has undergone significant changes in recent decades associated with a transition to higher education. This paper compares preparatory kindergarten teacher training in the Slovak Republic with selected European states.
Cyber Bullying as a Current Problem in Contemporary Family Education
Authors: Tománek Pavol
Published: July 2020

This study presents the commonest sources and occurrences of cyber bullying and points to modern methods of bullying. It deals with attacks featuring modern information technology among children, young people and siblings in families and schools. The study also reflects methods of cyber attacks. In conclusion, it suggests measures that may be taken against cyber bullying in the family and school environment, as well as technical proposals for the prevention of cyber bullying with the help of outside bodies.
How Ethnicisation Issues Related to Roma Communities Effect the Perception of Roma People by Future Secondary School Teachers
Authors: Jankových Vladislav
Published: July 2020

This article is concerned with the ethnicisation of issues relating to the socially maladjusted communities made up largely by members of the Roma minority. This ethnicisation is put into context with the current discourse about the Roma people and closely related to the symbolic form of the social exclusion of the Roma people by the majority Czech population. Part of this discourse is recorded here in connection with research into the attitudes toward the Roma people held by university students - future secondary school teachers. The research results are compared with a number of similar pieces of research in this area conducted in the past.
An Analysis of Drug Abuse at a Selected Secondary School
Authors: Jankových Vladislav , Turečková Vladěna
Published: July 2020

The article considers an analysis of the abuse of addictive substances by students studying at the Secondary Vocational College and Grammar School in Staré Město. An interview with the school prevention methodologist was carried out during the performance of the research, and a questionnaire survey conducted among 206 students at the school. With a view to the drug issues that are currently targeted at the school according to the school prevention methodologist, the research questionnaire focused first and foremost on analysing the abuse of marijuana, tobacco products and alcoholic beverages by the students at the given school.
Lifelong Learning in the Environment of Cultural Institution and its Value
Authors: Hlavičková Lenka
Published: July 2020

The paper sets a task to stress the potential of Culture Education in the process of Lifelong Learning. Some of the educational activities of cultural institutions will be presented. The text also pays attention to specific functions of culture in human life and Culture Education will be introduced as a specific field that has an unexceptionable position in contemporary educational system as well as a long tradition, although its potential has rather been neglected so far.
New Forms of the Family
Authors: Tománek Pavol
Published: July 2020

The present study deals with the family, parenting and the current form of creating families. The work provides insight into the phenomenon of current single, mingle and patchwork families, focusing on the situation in Slovakia and the EU. The data obtained are presented in tables. The conclusion of the study contains suggestions and recommendations for practice.
Motivation in Senior Education
Authors: Krystoň Miroslav
Published: July 2020

At present, the issue of senior education quite markedly exceeds the framework of educational sciences and acquires an interdisciplinary character. The paper deals with the analysis of one of the most important aspects of the process of senior education - motivation. The author’s consideration is based on the changing view on the significance of senior education, and he analyses the specific features of motivation in relation to ageing strategies.
Concept, Structure and Research of Didactics of Practical Education Within the Supplementary Pedagogical Studies of Teaching of Practical Subjects at the Faculty of Education of Masaryk University
Authors: Pecina Pavel
Published: July 2020

This study is focused on the concept, structure, innovation and research of didactics of practical education within the supplementary pedagogical studies of teaching of practical subjects for secondary vocational schools at the Faculty of Education of Masaryk University in Brno. The core of this paper is a report on the research into methods in the work of teachers of vocational training in technical fields of studies at secondary vocational schools and information about the innovation of the concept and structure of this course.
Current Status of Reactors Deployment and Small Modular Reactors Development in the World
Authors: Pioro I. , Duffey R. B. , Kirillov P. L. , Dort-Goltz N.
Published: July 2020

Due to emerging climate change concerns coupled with increased global energy demand, eventually the world needs to move to low-carbon-emission electricity-generating sources—nonrenewables, such as nuclear power, and renewables, as hydro, wind, geothermal, solar, and tidal. The only source is nuclear power that is reliable, concentrated, and can be of large installed capacity and operate with high capacity factors. This paper updates and presents the current status of nuclear-power deployment and small modular reactors (SMRs) development in the world. Unfortunately, within last 9 years, electricity generation with nuclear power has decreased from ∼14% before the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) severe accident in March of 2011 to about ∼10%. Therefore, it is important to follow up with and understand the latest trends in nuclear power including SMRs development.
A Social Ecological Perspective on Physical Activity of Low-Income Older Adults in Singapore
Authors: Lin Sapphire H.
Published: July 2020

This study presents a description and understanding of the physical activity of low-income older adults in Singapore, with specific focus on their communication and interactions with social partners. Ethnographic observations and participant interviews (N = 10) were conducted with a purposive sample. Findings contained descriptions of actual behaviors of the target group and explanations of the influences on their physical activity, ranging from the intrapersonal sphere, to communication with their strong-tie networks, and finally, interactions with the community and environment surrounding them. The author takes a social ecological viewpoint on the topic, uncovering the lived experiences of the target audience, and suggests how theory, research, and practical policies may be improved to better support those at the lower end of the socioeconomic strata.
The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Executive Functions Among Youth in Low-Income Urban Schools in the Northeast and Southwest United States
Authors: Mala Jesse , McGarry Jennifer , Riley Kristen E. , Lee Elaine C.-H. , DiStefano Lindsay
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this study was to examine if physical activity is related to greater executive functions among youth in poverty. Executive functions (cognitive flexibility, inhibition, and working memory) and physical activity were measured in participants (N = 149) in the fifth to eighth grade from three schools located in high-poverty districts. Pearson correlations revealed a statistically significant correlation between physical activity and cognitive flexibility (r = .18,p < .05). Hierarchical multiple regressions revealed that physical activity significantly improved prediction for cognitive flexibility,R2 = .09,F(6, 142) = 2.26,p = .041, adjustedR2 = .05, above sex, maturity, and school district. A two-way multivariate analysis of covariance revealed statistically significant differences in working memory in more active youth compared with less active but no statistically significant differences in cognitive flexibility or inhibition (p < .05). Greater physical activity is associated with greater working memory among youth in poverty.
A Longitudinal Analysis of the Executive Functions in High-Level Soccer Players
Authors: Beavan Adam , Chin Vincent , Ryan Louise M. , Spielmann Jan , Mayer Jan , Skorski Sabrina , Meyer Tim , Fransen Job
Published: July 2020

Introduction:Assessments of executive functions (EFs) with varying levels of perceptual information or action fidelity are common talent-diagnostic tools in soccer, yet their validity still has to be established. Therefore, a longitudinal development of EFs in high-level players to understand their relationship with increased exposure to training is required.Methods:A total of 304 high-performing male youth soccer players (10–21 years old) in Germany were assessed across three seasons on various sport-specific and non-sport-specific cognitive functioning assessments.Results:The posterior means (90% highest posterior density) of random slopes indicated that both abilities predominantly developed between 10 and 15 years of age. A plateau was apparent for domain-specific abilities during adolescence, whereas domain-generic abilities improved into young adulthood.Conclusion:The developmental trajectories of soccer players’ EFs follow the general populations’ despite long-term exposure to soccer-specific training and game play. This brings into question the relationship between high-level experience and EFs and renders including EFs in talent identification questionable.
Precise measurement of $$2\nu \beta \beta $$ decay of $$^{100}$$Mo with the CUPID-Mo detection technology
Authors: Armengaud E. , Augier C. , Barabash A.  S. , Bellini F. , Benato G. , Benoît A. , Beretta M. , Bergé L. , Billard J. , Borovlev Yu. A. , Bourgeois Ch. , Briere M. , Brudanin V. , Camus P. , Cardani L. , Casali N. , Cazes A. , Chapellier M. , Charlieux F. , de Combarieu M. , Dafinei I. , Danevich F. A. , De Jesus M. , Dumoulin L. , Eitel K. , Elkhoury E. , Ferri F. , Fujikawa B. K. , Gascon J. , Gironi L. , Giuliani A. , Grigorieva V. D. , Gros M. , Guerard E. , Helis D. L. , Huang H. Z. , Huang R. , Johnston J. , Juillard A. , Khalife H. , Kleifges M. , Kobychev V. V. , Kolomensky Yu. G. , Konovalov S. I. , Leder A. , Kotila J. , Loaiza P. , Ma L. , Makarov E. P. , de Marcillac P. , Marini L. , Marnieros S. , Misiak D. , Navick X.-F. , Nones C. , Novati V. , Olivieri E. , Ouellet J. L. , Pagnanini L. , Pari P. , Pattavina L. , Paul B. , Pavan M. , Peng H. , Pessina G. , Pirro S. , Poda D. V. , Polischuk O. G. , Previtali E. , Redon Th. , Rozov S. , Rusconi C. , Sanglard V. , Schäffner K. , Schmidt B. , Shen Y. , Shlegel V. N. , Siebenborn B. , Singh V. , Tomei C. , Tretyak V. I. , Umatov V. I. , Vagneron L. , Velázquez M. , Weber M. , Welliver B. , Winslow L. , Xue M. , Yakushev E. , Zolotarova A. S.
Published: July 2020

We report the measurement of the two-neutrino double-beta ($$2\nu \beta \beta $$2νββ) decay of$$^{100}$$100Mo to the ground state of$$^{100}$$100Ru using lithium molybdate ($$\hbox {Li}_2^{\;\;100}\hbox {MoO}_4$$Li2100MoO4) scintillating bolometers. The detectors were developed for the CUPID-Mo program and operated at the EDELWEISS-III low background facility in the Modane underground laboratory (France). From a total exposure of 42.235 kg$$\times $$×day, the half-life of$$^{100}$$100Mo is determined to be$$T_{1/2}^{2\nu }=[7.12^{+0.18}_{-0.14}\,\mathrm {(stat.)}\pm 0.10\,\mathrm {(syst.)}]\times 10^{18}$$T1/22ν=[7.12-0.14+0.18(stat.)±0.10(syst.)]×1018 years. This is the most accurate determination of the$$2\nu \beta \beta $$2νββhalf-life of$$^{100}$$100Mo to date.
New metric-affine generalizations of gravitational wave geometries
Authors: Jiménez-Cano Alejandro
Published: July 2020

In this paper we explore generalizations of metric structures of the gravitational wave type to geometries containing an independent connection. The aim is simply to establish a new category of connections compatible, according to some criteria, to the known metric structures for gravitational waves and, additionally, provide some properties that can be useful for the search of solutions of this kind in different theories.
Asymptotic generalized extended uncertainty principle
Authors: Da̧browski Mariusz P. , Wagner Fabian
Published: July 2020

We present a formalism which allows for the perturbative derivation of the Extended Uncertainty Principle (EUP) for arbitrary spatial curvature models and observers. Entering the realm of small position uncertainties, we derive a general asymptotic EUP. The leading 2nd order curvature induced correction is proportional to the Ricci scalar, while the 4th order correction features the 0th order Cartan invariant $$\Psi _2$$Ψ2 (a scalar quadratic in curvature tensors) and the curved space Laplacian of the Ricci scalar all of which are evaluated at the expectation value of the position operator i.e. the expected position when performing a measurement. This result is first verified for previously derived homogeneous space models and then applied to other non-trivial curvature related effects such as inhomogeneities, rotation and an anisotropic stress fluid leading to black hole “hair”. Our main achievement combines the method we introduce with the Generalized Uncertainty Principle (GUP) by virtue of deformed commutators to formulate a generic form of what we call the Asymptotic Generalized Extended Uncertainty Principle (AGEUP).
ENERGY, ECONOMIC GROWTH, INEQUALITY, AND POVERTY IN IRAN
Authors: AGHAEI MAJID , LIN LAWELL C.-Y. CYNTHIA
Published: July 2020

This paper examines the relationships among energy consumption, economic growth, inequality, and poverty in Iran. We estimate these relationships at both the aggregate and sectoral level using instrumental variables to address endogeneity and simultaneous equation models to enhance efficiency. Results show that decreasing inequality will be beneficial for economic growth, poverty alleviation and energy access. Inequality can negatively affect GDP directly, as well as indirectly through its negative effect on energy consumption. Similarly, inequality can increase poverty both directly as well as indirectly through its negative effect on energy consumption. We also find that increasing energy consumption has multiple benefits: it increases GDP, tends to decrease inequality and decreases poverty. Energy consumption decreases poverty both directly as well as indirectly via its effect on decreasing inequality. Our results therefore suggest that policies to improve energy access are important, and will have the benefits of increasing GDP, decreasing inequality and decreasing poverty.
社会政治空间转换下的东南亚华语和汉语方言
Authors: 吴 晓芳
Published: July 2020

本文从历史和使用现状两个层面讨论东南亚华语和汉语方言：一、在东南亚社会政治变迁和中国政府的华语政策双重关照下讨论东南亚华语和汉语方言的传播历史；二、通过实地调查观察华人社会华语和汉语方言的使用现状及地位、功能变化。本文认为：在东南亚华人社群的语言使用中，华语与汉语方言并非此消彼长而是相辅相成、优势互补；在多语言、多文化、多种族的东南亚，维护汉语方言有助于华人社会的中华文化认同。因此，“一带一路”语言规划中应有东南亚汉语方言的一席之地。
隐性知识传承、世代转变与企业发展
Authors: 李 健友 , 哥美茲
Published: July 2020

在有关家族企业的文献中，学术界一直都关注创始人的个人经历、内在素质和能力，并针对其隐性知识的编纂进行评估。然而，这些文献并没有提到在世代转变之后有关隐性知识的转化。因此，本研究旨在探讨华人家族中小型企业（Chinese Family Small-and-Medium-Scale Enterprises）经历世代转变后，有关隐性知识的革新与企业发展之间的联系，并着重于源自中国的创始人在马来西亚开展业务之后，其隐性知识的发展演变。为此，本文对三家在马来西亚食品领域里蓬勃发展的华人家族中小型企业 — 义香公司（Ghee Hiang）、建安食品有限公司（Laksamana Usaha）和锦添食品工业有限公司（Kum Thim）进行深度的个案研究，评估他们的新世代如何对创始人的产品进行革新。通过访谈和参考马来西亚公司委员会（Company Commission of Malaysia, CCM）的次级数据，探讨这些华人中小型企业如何根据传统知识而采用革新的方法，以提高产品的品质或创造相关的产品。本研究认为，这些拥有良好训练的第二代及第三代家族中小企业，已经发展或改变了“隐性知识”，他们在其产品中带出强烈和正面的“华人”身份情感，从而增加这些经由研发所创造的新产品的价值。通过对嵌入隐性知识的中华传统文化和对产品的促进研发，增加了提高销售量和确保市场知名度的可能性。例如：位于槟城的义香公司着重于唤起人们对槟城传统糕点的回忆；建安食品有限公司和锦添食品工业有限公司则致力于创造独特的产品如清真面条等，这些产品在马来西亚和其他东南亚国家都深受欢迎。由此可见，这些公司的市场发展基础很大程度上取决于他们如何编纂隐性知识，再经由研发来提高其产品之品质。
Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of the Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire in Dutch Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Van Boekel Regina L. M. , Timmerman Hans , Bronkhorst Ewald M. , Ruscheweyh Ruth , Vissers Kris C. P. , Steegers Monique A. H.
Published: July 2020

An increased sensitivity to painful stimuli has been proposed to be related to the development of chronic pain. Therefore, assessment of individual pain sensitivity is useful in clinical practice. However, experimental pain testing may be uncomfortable for patients and requires specific equipment. The Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire (PSQ) has been developed to facilitate assessment of pain sensitivity. In this study, we aimed to translate and cross-culturally adapt the PSQ from its published German and English versions into the Dutch language and to assess validity of the PSQ in healthy volunteers. After translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the PSQ following international guidelines, we validated the PSQ in 394 healthy volunteers by comparing the PSQ-values with two different experimental pain tests: electrical pain tolerance (EPT) and pressure pain threshold (PPT). In addition, ratings of pain intensity during these tests were obtained on the numerical rating scale (NRS, 0–10). We found that the reliability of the PSQ based on internal consistency was good (Cronbach’s alpha 0.90). PSQ-scores, adjusted for age and sex, were statistically significant and weakly inversely correlated to EPT (PSQ-moderate: rho = −0.24, p=0.007; PSQ-total: rho = −0.22, p=0.016). No statistically significant correlation between PSQ-scores and PPT was found. Concerning the pain scores, PSQ-scores were weakly to moderately correlated to EPT-NRS (PSQ-minor: rho = 0.21, p=0.021; PSQ-moderate: rho = 0.22, p=0.016; PSQ-total: rho = 0.23, p=0.009) as well as PPT-NRS (PSQ-minor: rho = 0.32, p<0.001; PSQ-moderate: rho = 0.36, p<0.001; PSQ-total: rho = 0.37, p<0.001). Therefore, we concluded that the Dutch version of the PSQ is culturally appropriate for assessing self-reported pain sensitivity in healthy volunteers.
Complex Behavior Analysis of a Fractional-Order Land Dynamical Model with Holling-II Type Land Reclamation Rate on Time Delay
Authors: Wu Li , Li Zhouhong , Zhang Yuan , Xie Binggeng
Published: July 2020

In this paper, a fractional-order land model with Holling-II type transformation rate and time delay is investigated. First of all, the variable-order fractional derivative is defined in the Caputo type. Second, by applying time delay as the bifurcation parameter, some criteria to determine the stability and Hopf bifurcation of the model are presented. It turns out that the time delay can drive the model to be oscillatory, even when its steady state is stable. Finally, one numerical example is proposed to justify the validity of theoretical analysis. These results may provide insights to the development of a reasonable strategy to control land-use change.