bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Best Practices During Covid-19 With A Significant Focus On Online Teaching: A Case Of Private HEI
Authors: Khawaja Sarwar , Akinwalere Susan , Ivanov Ventsislav
Published: March 2024

The main purpose of the study was to explore the best practices of online teaching during the Pandemic in a private higher education institution in England. The Covid-19 pandemic caused unprecedented disruption to education systems worldwide. The fast switch to online learning was a monumental task for higher education institutions (HEIs), especially for private HEIs with limited resources compared to public HEIs. Therefore, the HEIs made tremendous efforts to make the transition to online or remote learning as good as possible. Although Oxford Business college (OBC) quickly adapted to online teaching despite some challenges but also demonstrated some best practices. The research presents some of the good practices OBC adopted to make online learning effective during the pandemic. For almost two years (2020-21), the researchers were part of the composition of the OBC team to plan, implement online strategy and train staff and students to make online teaching effective during the global pandemic. This gave the researchers a unique opportunity to observe and understand lived experiences of staff and conduct interviews for more in-depth understanding by divisions (leadership, management). As a result, the goal was achieved by bringing out the good practices used during the pandemic. Findings from this study revealed the best practices in strategic planning and business growth, successful transition to online teaching, the establishment of a research profile, recruitment of highly qualified and experienced academic staff, excellent student attendance and pass rates and lowest student dropouts. Keywords: Best Practices, Online Teaching, Covid-19, Oxford Business College
Student Satisfaction with Admission and Induction in the UK Private Higher Education Sector
Authors: Zia Tayyaba , Khawaja Sarwar , Qureshi Fayyaz
Published: March 2024

The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of two crucial components-admission and induction processes concerning student satisfaction in private higher education. The significance of addressing students' learning and support needs in higher education is rising and changing, the focus is on their satisfaction, and it has been extended before and after completing studies. Therefore, the study sought student satisfaction during private higher education's admission and induction processes. Using a quantitative approach, we collected data from 713 undergraduate students at Oxford Business College. For this purpose, a questionnaire was designed comprised of fort questions mainly focusing on admission and induction, including demographic factors. The data was analysed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics and log-linear analysis were used to find significant associations between different variables. Moreover, the variables retained in the model were separately used as the outcome/target variable using a decision tree classifier- CHAID (Chi-square Automatic Interaction Detection) method to find the best feature and attain meaningful insights about the data. The research also examined the overall satisfaction to identify students' needs and measure the level of satisfaction with admission and induction. The study revealed high satisfaction levels in admission and induction; however, specific areas in the induction, both academic and general, where there is a lack of information; as a result, developments could be required to ensure the delivery of best practices in these areas. Keywords: Admission, Induction, Student Satisfaction, Private Higher Education
Protean Career Attitude as an Antecedent of Employee Resilience
Authors: Arshad Sadia , Anum Leena , Imran Aiysha
Published: March 2024

Protean career attitude and employee resilience is an increasingly important, but under researched aspect of modern careers. The purpose of this study is to examine the changes organizations (universities) are facing while focusing on protean career attitude and employee resilience. And to focus on changes on employee performance and how supervisor support increases organization identification among employees. Participants in this study were 600 teachers of private universities. The results indicate a significant relationship between protean career attitude and organization identification with moderation of supervisor support. Significant relationship between organization identification and voice behavior with mediation of desire to have significant impact through work. Significant relationship between desire to have significant impact through work and employee resilience with mediation of voice behavior. Significant relationship exists between organization identification and employee resilience with sequential mediation of desire to have significant impact through work and voice behavior. And lastly significant relationship exists between protean career attitude and employee resilience with sequential mediation of psychological empowerment and personal initiative. The findings reveal that organizations should focus more on supervisor support to employees in this way career-oriented employees will have more organization identification and they will be more resilient.
Preliminary Study on Occupational Well-Being among Albanian Teachers in Lower Secondary School
Authors: Kume Enida
Published: March 2024

This study aims to assess the level of occupational well-being and its three constructions, Organizational, Workload, and Pupil interaction well-being, among Albanian teachers working in lower secondary schools and the effect of demographic features and socioeconomic factors on occupational well-being. The analysis of information obtained from the interview of 198 teachers showed that teachers working in lower secondary schools reported a moderate level of occupational well-being. The levels of both organizational well-being and pupil interaction well-being were positive. Teachers have reported that workload well-being was slightly negative overall. The level of organizational WB, workload WB, and pupil interaction WB varies depending on the teachers' demographic features and social and economic factors. Female teachers, teachers with children, and teachers from families with low and medium incomes declare a higher level of well-being. Teaching experience affects the level of well-being. Teachers in public schools and teachers working in schools located in urban areas declare a higher level of occupational well-being. Based on these results, it is recommended that future reforms and programs in the pre-university education system aimed at increasing occupational well-being should be designed and implemented. This is because of the complexity of the factors responsible for occupational well-being and the characteristics of educational institutions related to their ownership status and location.
ELIOT’S PARSONS AND THEIR ROOTS IN SCOTT’S ABBOT OF UNREASON
Authors:   University of Bucharest, Faculty of Foreign Languages and Literatures, Department of English, VÎJEA CRISTIAN ŞTEFAN
Published: March 2024

Critical studies have analyzed George Eliot’s unconventional religious stance, Feuerbach’s influence and her atheism/religion of humanity. An early biography reveals, however, an interesting fact: “On the same grounds it is likely that the presentation of social virtues, apart from evangelical motives, would impress her; and I have authority for stating that to the inquiry of a friend in after-years, as to what influence she attributed the first unsettlement of her orthodox views, she quickly made answer: ‘Oh, Walter Scott’s…’” (Cross 1878: 395). Taking into account the quote above regarding probably the first source of her “unorthodox views”, the question naturally arises: are her fictional pastors and religious men fashioned according to her religious views and under the influence of Feuerbach’s doctrine? Can we assume a subtler influence at work coming from Walter Scott? It is my claim that we can identify important elements in Eliot’s fictional parsons which point in the direction of Scott’s model of a hero: the ability to promote an ironic discourse; the ability to promote the flow of sympathetic exchange in dialogue with other people. Eliot’s parsons may have been outlined according to a literary, rather than religious pattern. How to account for Farebrother’s unconventional way of earning money or parson Jack’s turning the other cheek by throwing nuts at the audience that had bombarded him with rotten eggs? Unawares, Eliot’s clever moral system may have been influenced by her early readings. Small scale carnivalesque skills, unconventional behaviour and the ability to preserve dialogue with marginal characters point rather in the direction of Scott’s fictional hero. While the research so far has focused on the model of historical novels in George Eliot’s work, little attention has been given to Scott’s influence on Eliot’s moral and psychological insights and the way in which she constructed important characters such as Rev. Farebrother, Rev. Rufus Lyon, parson Jack and other clergymen and religious non-conformists in her novels.
INTRODUCING A WRITER IN A FOREIGN CULTURAL SPACE THROUGH THE PARATEXT: FUNCTIONS OF THE BACK-COVER BLURBS IN THE ROMANIAN EDITIONS OF MISHIMA YUKIO’S NOVELS
Authors:   University of Bucharest, Literary-Cultural Studies Doctoral School, ALEXANDRESCU BEATRICE-MARIA
Published: March 2024

In the case of literary translations from Japanese into Western languages, paratextual elements such as book blurbs are one of the tools through which the contact between the target-culture readers and the literary work is mediated. The purpose of this study is to determine the role of back-cover blurbs in the process of introducing and promoting a foreign author in a new culture – in our case, the Japanese writer Mishima Yukio (1925-1970) in Romania. Throughout this article, I will present six functions of blurbs which contribute to creating a specific image of a foreign writer and his work in the target cultural space: 1. (re)confirming his literary value and including him in a literary canon; 2. presenting the book-to-screen adaptations of his novels; 3. illustrating similarities between Mishima’s style and the style of some famous authors from the European cultural space; 4. marking the cultural difference; 5. referring to other valences of Mishima Yukio’s literary works; 6. exposing the universal character of Mishima Yukio’s literary work.
Tech Footprints: Shaping Humanity's Digital Future
Authors: Pasupuleti Murali Krishna
Published: March 2024

Abstract: This chapter, "Tech Footprints: Shaping Humanity's Digital Future," explores into the profound impact of technological advancements on human society, tracing the evolution from the Industrial Revolution to the burgeoning Digital Era. It explores how pivotal innovations, including the printing press, the steam engine, computers, and the internet, have left lasting "tech footprints" that have shaped human progress and societal transformation. The chapter further examines the Digital Era's transformative effects on communication, business, governance, and personal lives through the advent of the internet, digital communication, and the proliferation of smartphones. It addresses the dual-edged nature of digital technology, highlighting both its positive impacts—such as improved access to information, e-governance, telemedicine, and online education—and its challenges, including privacy concerns, the digital divide, misinformation, and cyber threats. Ethical considerations and the responsibility of policymakers, technologists, and society in navigating the digital landscape are critically analyzed to emphasize a balanced approach that prioritizes human welfare and rights. Looking to the future, emerging technologies like quantum computing, blockchain, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR), alongside the implications of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, are explored for their potential to further shape our world. The chapter concludes by calling for a proactive, thoughtful approach to technology, underscoring the collective responsibility to use it for the betterment of society, ensuring that the future tech footprints we leave create a legacy of progress, equity, and sustainability. Keywords Digital Era,Technological Advancements,Tech Footprints,Digital Divide,Ethical Considerations,Emerging Technologies,Fourth Industrial Revolution,Privacy Concerns,E-Governance and Cyber Threats.
Application of the Combination of Uridine Monophosphate and Choline in Real Clinical Practice (Expert Recommendations for Practicing Physicians)
Authors:   National Association of Experts in Comorbid Neurology, Moscow, Russia, Rachin A.P. , Sharov M.N. ,   Russian University of Medicine, Moscow, Russia, Rachin S.A. ,   National Association of Experts in Comorbid Neurology, Moscow, Russia, Prokofieva Y.S. ,   Russian University of Medicine, Moscow, Russia,   Research Center of Neurology, Moscow, Russia, Parsamyan R.R. ,   4Saratov State Medical University named after V.I. Razumovsky, Saratov, Russia
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT In recent years, in real clinical practice, complexes containing a combination of uridinomonophosphate and choline have been included in the general therapy regimen of patients suffering from nonspecific back pain and radiculopathy. Is there a need and appropriateness for this? The experts of the National Association have prepared recommendations on topical questions that are regularly asked by practicing physicians regarding the use of a combination of uridine monophosphate and choline. We present to your attention an expert opinion on this issue. KEYWORDS: purinergic system, uridine monophosphate, choline, Neurouridine®, pain
The Structure of Early Post-Stroke Cognitive Impairment in Patients. with Damage to the Right and Left Hemispheres of the Brain: Cohort Study
Authors:   Imannuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad, Russia, Tynterova A.M.
Published: March 2024

AIM. To identify the most informative indicators of functional-cognitive status, allowing for a differentiated approach to the diagnosis of cognitive impairment in patients with damage to the right and left hemispheres in the acute period of ischemic stroke. MATERIAL AND METHODS. 240 patients diagnosed with ischemic stroke in the carotid region were examined. Depending on the location, the patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 — 122 patients with damage to the left hemisphere of the brain;Group 2 — 118 patients with damage to the right hemisphere. The following scales were used to assess parameters of cognitivefunctional status: Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA), National Institutes of Health Scale (NIHSS), Barthel Index (BI), Questionnaire for Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (IQCODE), additional scales for assessing praxis, semantic aphasia, perceptual and executive function, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), MFI-20 and Apathy Scale (AES). The latency and amplitude of acoustic endogenous evoked potential, P300, was used as neurophysiological markers. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS 23 software package. RESULTS AND DISSCUSION. The main relevant indicators of cognitive dysfunction in both groups were declines in the areas of memory, perception and executive function, which prevailed in patients of the 1st group. The disorder of visual perception, understanding of complex grammatical structures, a predominance of decreased motivation and mental fatigue were identified in patients of the 1st group; impaired recognition of emotions and understanding of idioms, the presence of general fatigue and depression — in patients of the 2nd group. Statistically significant neurophysiological indicators were an increase in P300 latency in the frontal and central leads in patients of the 2nd group. CONCLUSION. The study identified relevant indicators of cognitive and psychoemotional status depending on the lateralization of the lesion in patients in the acute period of ischemic stroke. The P300 evoked potential method can be used to objectify cognitive dysfunction and evaluate the effectiveness of therapy for cognitive disorders. The results prove the feasibility of a comprehensive examination of cognitive deficits with the inclusion of additional scales and tests to assess perception, executive and mnestic functions, fatigue, affective and personality disorders. This will allow us to develop more effective individual rehabilitation programs aimed at restoring the cognitive and emotional resources of patients. KEYWORDS: ischemic stroke, cognitive function, affective disorders, fatigue, evoked potentials, Р300
Towards the Prevention of Diabetic Peripheral Polyneuropathy
Authors:   Stavropol State Medical University, Stavropol, Russia, Shtemberg L.V. , Karpov S.M. ,   Stavropol State Medical University, Stavropol, Russia, Vyshlova I.A. ,   Stavropol State Medical University, Stavropol, Russia, Raevskaya A.I. ,   Stavropol State Medical University, Stavropol, Russia, Zakharyan E.S. ,   City Clinical Hospital No. 3, Stavropol, Russia, Dolgova I.N. ,   Stavropol State Medical University, Stavropol, Russia
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy occurs in more than half of patients with type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy develops as a result of demyelination, which leads to pain, early disability, followed by a decrease in the quality of life. MATERIAL AND METHODS. A systematic search was conducted for studies based on the RSCI and PubMed databases for the period from 2019 to 2023 on the topic of modern methods of diagnosing diabetic peripheral polyneuropathy, prevention and treatment in adult patients, which gave 929 matches. We have analyzed 40 scientific publications. DISCUSSION. Timely early diagnosis improves the clinical outcomes of diabetic polyneuropathy. In type 1 diabetes, hyperglycemia is the main risk factor for complications, and glycemic control, in turn, prevents the development of the diabetic peripheral neuropathy. In type 2 diabetes, the main risk factor for the development of the diabetic peripheral neuropathy is metabolic syndrome. CONCLUSION. Confocal microscopy of the cornea, along with nociceptive evoked potentials, is a promising method for detecting early signs of diabetic polyneuropathy. The use of sodium-glucose cotransporter -2 inhibitors represents a new direction in the prevention and treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy. KEYWORDS: diabetic peripheral neuropathy, diabetes mellitus, quality of life, alpha-lipoic acid, confocal microscopy of the cornea
Is the «Globus Pharyngeus» an Interdisciplinary Problem or A Patient’s Problem? Dispel Myths and Discuss Facts. A Review
Authors:   Multidisciplinary Medical Center “Clinic Park-M”, Smolensk, Russia, Averchenkova A.A. , Rachin A.P. ,   National Association of Experts in Comorbid Neurology, Moscow, Russia
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT INTRODUCT ION. A lump in the throat (globus pharyngeus) is a common clinical disease, but its etiology remains unclear. This is a common clinical condition that usually lasts a long time, is difficult to treat and has a tendency to recur. Furthermore, due to the uncertain etiology of the lump in the throat, it remains difficult to establish standard investigation and treatment strategies for affected patients. AIM. Systematize the available data on this problem and give rational recommendations for the management of patients with a similar symptom. CONCLUSION. The results of recent studies strongly suggest that gastro-esophageal reflux is the main cause of a lump in the throat, although this issue remains the subject of serious debate Numerous functional and organic causes have been proposed as potential sources of this sensation, such as impaired function of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES), esophageal motility disorders, structural diseases of the head and neck, as well as psychological factors. KEYWORDS: lump in the throat, psychological factors, gastro-esophageal reflux, esophageal motility disorder, anxiety disorder, depression
Microcephaly Syndrome with Capillary Malformations: Case Report
Authors:   Orel State University, Orel, Russia, Korotkikh M.Yu , Korotkikh G.A. ,   Orel State University, Orel, Russia, Shiryaeva N.O. ,   Scientific and Clinical Multidisciplinary Center of Medical Care for Mothers and Children, Orel, Russia, Skrynnik A.R. ,   Orel State University, Orel, Russia, Fedorchuk M.V. ,   Orel State University, Orel, Russia
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION. Microcephaly-capillary malformation syndrome (MIC-CAP syndrome; OMIM: 614261) is a rare severe autosomal recessive disorder characterized mainly by congenital microcephaly, multiple small capillary malformations of the skin, and drugresistant epilepsy with early onset. The disease results from a mutation in the STAMBP gene. To date, the worldwide prevalence is less than 1:1000000 and less than 30 cases have been described. CASE PRESENTATION. We present a case of MIC-CAP syndrome in a child with a homozygous mutation NC_000002.12: g.73831044A>G (c.188A>G, p.Tyr63Cys) in the STAMBP gene. In the clinical picture: congenital microcephaly, multiple capillary malformations, drug-resistant epilepsy with early onset, gross psycho-motor developmental delay. CONCLUSION. The presented case has all the main characteristic symptoms of the clinical picture of MIC-CAP syndrome. The peculiarity of the case can be considered the presence of renal multicystosis, which has not been previously described in this syndrome. In antiepileptic therapy, the best effect was obtained on duotherapy with valproate and vigabatrin with course addition of clobazam. Given the typical symptom complex of this syndrome, it is advisable to immediately search for a mutation in the STAMBP gene. KEYWORDS: microcephaly, capillary malformations, STAMBP gene, drug-resistant epilepsy
Abnormal Reflexes and their Rehabilitation Significance: Short Communication
Authors:   Novokuznetsk State Institute for Further Training of Physicians — Branch Campus of the Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Novokuznetsk, Russia, Petrov K.B. , Mitichkina T.V. ,   Novokuznetsk State Institute for Further Training of Physicians — Branch Campus of the Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Novokuznetsk, Russia, Ivonina N.A. ,   Novokuznetsk State Institute for Further Training of Physicians — Branch Campus of the Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Novokuznetsk, Russia
Published: March 2024

ABSTRACT INTRODUCTION. In most post-stroke patients, an increase in muscle tone on the hemiplegic side is accompanied by a revival of tendon reflexes and an expansion of their reflexogenic zone, as well as the appearance of specific abnormal reflexes. All these signs have long been considered when diagnosing damage to the pyramidal system in diseases of the spinal cord and brain, but their rehabilitation significance has not yet been considered. AIM. To study and systematize abnormal reflexes — a group of motor automatisms characteristic of damage to the central nervous system, and to evaluate the possibility of using them to optimize rehabilitation methods. CONCLUSION. Based on literature data, the clinical and neurophysiological characteristics of known abnormal reflexes were assessed. It is concluded that it is possible to use lively tendon reflexes, as well as tonic reflexes of the foot and hand (Babinsky and its analogues, Mayer’s, Klippel-Feil, Larry`s reflexes) in rehabilitation practice. The role of phasic abnormal hand and foot reflexes (Rossolimo’s sign and its analogues) in the rehabilitation process is considered insignificant due to their short duration. KEYWORDS: abnormal reflexes, hyperreflexia, Babinski reflex, Rossolimo’s sign, rehabilitation
Influence of steel characteristics on the corrosion resistance of tubing under carbon dioxide corrosion conditions
Authors:   Belarusian Oil Research and Design Institute BelNIPIneft Republican unitary enterprise “Production Association  “Belorusneft”, Popkova Yu. I. , Grigoriev А. Ya. ,   The State Scientific Institution “V. A. Belyi Metal-Polymer  Research Institute of National Academy of Sciences  of Belarus”
Published: March 2024

Results of bench corrosion tests of tube steels in real well mediums of oil fields of Production Association “Belorusneft” are presented. Corrosion resistance of plain carbon steels 32Mr1A N80 (Q) API Spec 5CT, 37Mr2V E GOST 633, low-allowed steels 30Cr L80(1) API Spec 5CT, 32CrMr P110 API Spec 5CT, 25CrMrB K72 GOST 31446, 30CrMrMoA-1 C90 API Spec 5CT has been evaluated. It was found that hot-rolled plain carbon steel with coarse-grained microstructure is subject to more intense local corrosion than similar steel with a fine-grained microstructure after quenching and high tempering. Analysis of the composi-tion and microstructure data of the investigated materials indicates that, under given conditions, the main factors reducing the corrosion resistance of the investigated materials are the manganese content of more than 1 % wt., the heterogranularity and the presence of metallographic structure of Widmannstetter. It is established that tube steel with chromium content of 0.5 % wt., micro-alloyed with calcium and boron, having fine-grained structure with 12 grain grades according to GOST 5639, can show increased corrosion resistance on a par with tube steel with chromium content of 1 % wt., having fine-grained structure with 10 grain grade according to GOST 5639. The obtained results can be used when selecting materials for operating under the conditions of oil fields in the Republic of Belarus
Secondary changes in carbonate rocks of Nepa-Botuoba anteclise in the south of the Siberian platform and their impact on the reservoir properties of productive horizons
Authors:   National University of Oil and Gas “Gubkin University”, Poroshina А. D.
Published: March 2024

Nepa-Botuoba anteclise is one of the most promising territories in Eastern Siberia, within which more than a half of the hydrocarbon resources are connected with carbonate reservoirs. One of the main tasks in the development of oil and gas resources in this region is associated with the forecast of the localization of reservoir rocks, which is largely determined by the degree of knowledge of the post-sedimentation proc-esses which have occurred. The article is dedicated to the influence of secondary processes on the capacitive and filtration properties of productive carbonate rocks of the Nepa-Botuoba anteclise. One of the wells drilled within its northeastern section has been taken as an example. The features of each of the post-sedimentation processes manifestation which took place were examined in detail and their influence on the filtration-capacitive properties of rocks of various lithotypes was assessed for all carbonate horizons penetrated by the well. The results of the research will help to increase the reliability of the forecast for the localization of carbonate rocks with improved capacitive and filtration properties, and therefore increase the efficiency of development of oil and gas resources in the considered region
An overview of the chemical constituents, pharmacological properties, and safety evaluation of Camellia sinensis flowers
Authors: Chan Eric Wei Chiang
Published: March 2024

The young leaves of Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze is most studied in vitro and in vivo with little attention on other parts of the plant. This overview is focused on the chemical constituents and pharmacological properties of the lesser-known flowers of C. sinensis with brief descriptions of their morphology, reproductive biology, and uses. Studies on the chemical constituents and pharmacological properties of C. sinensis flowers are on flower buds and not on open flowers. Chemical compounds found in tea flowers include flavonols, catechins, polysaccharides, saponins, proteins, alkaloids, spermidine derivatives, and anthocyanins. Major pharmacological properties of C. sinensis flowers include hypoglycemic, anti-cancer, antioxidant, hypolipidemic, modulation of gut health, antimicrobial activities, and anti-inflammatory activities. Other pharmacological properties are hepatoprotective, immunoregulatory, β-amyloid aggregation inhibitory, gastroprotective, nephroprotective, anti-obesity, anti-allergic, anti-cholesterol, pancreatic lipase inhibitory, melanin synthesis inhibitory, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease activities. The potentials and challenges of the development of health supplements and other commercial products from tea flowers are discussed.
Forkhead-associated phosphopeptide binding domain 1 (FHAD1) deficiency impaired murine sperm motility
Authors: Zhang Xi , Xue Jiangyang , Jiang Shan , Zheng Haoyu , Wang Chang
Published: March 2024

Background

Genetic knockout-based studies conducted in mice provide a powerful means of assessing the significance of a gene for fertility. Forkhead-associated phosphopeptide binding domain 1 (FHAD1) contains a conserved FHA domain, that is present in many proteins with phospho-threonine reader activity. How FHAD1 functions in male fertility, however, remains uncertain.

Methods

Fhad1−/− mice were generated by CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout, after which qPCR was used to evaluate changes in gene expression, with subsequent analyses of spermatogenesis and fertility. The testis phenotypes were also examined using immunofluorescence and histological staining, while sperm concentrations and motility were quantified via computer-aided sperm analysis. Cellular apoptosis was assessed using a TUNEL staining assay.

Results

The Fhad1−/−mice did not exhibit any abnormal changes in fertility or testicular morphology compared to wild-type littermates. Histological analyses confirmed that the testicular morphology of both Fhad1−/−and Fhad1+/+ mice was normal, with both exhibiting intact seminiferous tubules. Relative to Fhad1+/+ mice, however, Fhad1−/−did exhibit reductions in the total and progressive motility of epididymal sperm. Analyses of meiotic division in Fhad1−/−mice also revealed higher levels of apoptotic death during the first wave of spermatogenesis.

Discussion

The findings suggest that FHAD1 is involved in both meiosis and the modulation of sperm motility.
Desmoid Fibromatosis Presenting with Gastrointestinal Manifestations in a Patient with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A Case ReportDesmoid Fibromatosis Presenting with Gastrointestinal Manifestations in a Patient with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Fagundo Elias Lugo- , Weisberg Edmund M , Rizk Ryan C , Fishman Elliot K
Published: March 2024

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome comprises 13 hereditary connective tissue disorders associated with skin hyperelasticity, joint hypermobility, atrophic scarring, and blood vessel fragility. Hypermobile EDS, the most common subtype, has no clear genetic or molecular source. When presented with wide-ranging clinical symptoms, it requires effective clinical diagnosis. A 31-year-old female with hypermobile EDS underwent an abdominal Computed Tomography (CT) scan displaying a 2.9 cm soft-tissue mass possibly arising from the terminal ileum, which was revealed to be a desmoid fibromatosis. It is believed that Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations may be associated with EDS, specifically the hypermobile subtype. The patient demonstrated manifestations commonly seen throughout the literature on hypermobile EDS, including abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhoea. With symptoms worsening, a follow-up CT disclosed an enlargement of the ileocecal desmoid tumour, measuring 5.1 cm. Because all the subtypes of EDS share features such as tissue fragility, joint hypermobility, and skin hyperextensibility, and many of the manifestations are insufficient to establish a diagnosis, imaging modalities are essential for proper identification and patient management. Given the patient’s medical history and the involvement of EDS and desmoid tumours with connective tissue, there is a strong linkage between desmoid fibromatosis and the patient’s hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos diagnosis. The available literature does not clearly attribute such a tumour to the syndrome. This patient’s symptoms represent a possible association between hypermobile EDS and desmoid fibromatosis, warranting future research in this area. The patient is now stable and was recently discharged.
Effect of Phosphate Solubilizing Microorganisms and Phosphorus Levels on Growth Yield and Quality of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in Inceptisol
Authors: M.S Waghmare , S.K. Ugile , P. G. Chavan , B.G. Waghmode
Published: March 2024

A field study was conducted to know the “Effect of phosphate solubilizing microorganisms and phosphorus levels on growth, yield and quality of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) in inceptisol.” The experiment was laid in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with sixteen treatments, replicated thrice during rabi season of 2019-20 at the Department Research Farm of SSAC, College of Agriculture, Latur. The treatments comprises four main (absolute control, Bacillus megaterium, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus awamori @ 10 ml kg-1 seed treatment) and four sub treatments (0,45,60 and 75 P2O5 kg ha-1). The results indicated that, the incorporation of phosphate solubilizing microorganisms viz. Aspergillius awamori @ 10 ml kg-1 seed in combination with soil application of  75 P2O5 kg ha-1 found to be effective in improving growth and yield attributing characters viz. number of root nodules, fresh and dry weight, chlorophyll content , grain yield and straw yield  as compared to Aspergillus niger and Bacillus megaterium along with 60 P2O5 kg ha-1  and over control. Further results revealed that test weight and protein percentage was significantly influenced with the seed treatment of Aspergillius awamori @ 10 ml kg-1 seed in combination with application of 75 P2O5 kg ha-1.
Knowledge, attitudes and practices of a multidisciplinary team on palliative care / Conhecimentos, atitudes e práticas de uma equipe multidisciplinar de residentes sobre cuidados paliativos
Authors: Turra Luana , Delacanal Lazzari Daniele
Published: March 2024

Objetivo: analisar conhecimentos, atitudes e práticas de residentes acerca da assistência em Cuidados Paliativos. Método: estudo quantitativo, transversal, avaliativo do tipo Conhecimento, Atitude e Prática, desenvolvido em um hospital universitário da região Sul do Brasil. Participaram 49 residentes vinculados ao Programa de Residência Integrada Multiprofissional em Saúde. A coleta de dados ocorreu por meio do Google Forms. As análises foram realizadas no software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences v.25. O nível de significância adotado foi 0,05. Resultados: A maioria afirmou não ter recebido informação suficiente sobre Cuidados Paliativos e manejo da dor na graduação, 53,1% não sabem identificar pacientes candidatos a abordagem. Os aspectos conceituais são reconhecidos pelos residentes, no entanto, o uso de escalas, suspensão ou não de procedimentos e/ou alimentação e o uso de opióides geraram respostas diversas. O domínio Atitude foi significativo entre as categorias profissionais (P=0,008). Conclusão: Embora os participantes tenham mostrado compreensão sobre a temática, foram evidenciadas fragilidades, especialmente nos domínios atitude e prática.
Strong postcranial size dimorphism in Australopithecus afarensis: Results from two new resampling methods for multivariate data sets with missing data
Authors: Gordon Adam D. , Green David J. , Richmond Brian G.
Published: November 2007

There is considerable debate over the level of size dimorphism and inferred social behavior of Australopithecus afarensis. Most previous studies have analyzed size variation in single variables or multiple variables drawn from single elements. These approaches suffer from small sample sizes, underscoring the need for new techniques that incorporate measurements from multiple unassociated elements, reducing the influence of random sampling on size variation in fossil samples. One such technique, the template method, has recently been proposed but is limited to samples with a template specimen and is sensitive to a number of assumptions. Here we present two new resampling methods that do not require a template specimen, allow measurements from multiple unassociated elements to be included in a single analysis, and allow for significance tests between comparative and fossil multivariate data sets with missing data. Using these new methods, multivariate postcranial size dimorphism is measured using eight measurements of the femur, tibia, humerus, and radius in samples of A. afarensis, modern humans, chimpanzees, gorillas, and orangutans. Postcranial dimorphism in A. afarensis is similar to that of gorillas and orangutans, and significantly greater than in modern humans and chimpanzees. Because studies in living primates have examined the association of behavior with dimorphism in body mass and craniodental measurements, not postcrania, relationships between postcranial dimorphism and social behavior must be established to make robust behavioral inferences for A. afarensis. However, the results of this and past studies strongly suggest behavioral and mating strategies differed between A. afarensis and modern humans. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative Conformational Study of Redox‐Active [2]Rotaxanes, Part 2: Switching in Flexible and Rigid Bistable [2]Rotaxanes
Authors: Nikitin Kirill , Lestini Elena , Stolarczyk Jacek K. , Müller‐Bunz Helge , Fitzmaurice Donald
Published: November 2007

Translational movement of the macrocycle in two structurally similar bistable [2]rotaxanes, which is induced by a four‐step electrochemical process in solution, has been investigated by using a methodology developed in the preceding article (Chem. Eur. J. 2008, 14, 1107–1116). Both [2]rotaxanes contain a crown ether that can be accommodated by either of two interconnected viologen recognition sites. These sites are substantially different in terms of their affinity towards the crown ether and they possess considerably different electrochemical reduction potentials. The two [2]rotaxanes differ in the length and the rigidity of a bridge that links these sites. A combination of molecular mechanics modelling and NOE spectroscopy data provides information about the conformations of both [2]rotaxanes in the parent oxidation state when the crown ether exclusively populates the strong recognition site. To determine the population of the recognition sites at subsequent stages of reduction, a paramagnetic NMR technique and cyclic voltammetry were used. The key finding is that the flexibility of the connecting bridge element between the recognition sites interferes with shuttling of the crown ether in [2]rotaxanes. It can be demonstrated that the more flexible trimethylene bridge is folded, thus limiting the propensity of the crown ether to shuttle. Consequently, the crown ether populates the original site even in the second reduced state of the flexible [2]rotaxane. On the contrary, in the [2]rotaxane in which two viologen sites are connected by a larger and more rigid p‐terphenylene bridge, the predominant location of the crown ether at the weak recognition site is achieved after just one single electron reduction.
SIRT2, tubulin deacetylation, and oligodendroglia differentiation
Authors: Tang Bor Luen , Chua Christelle En Lin
Published: November 2007

The mammalian silent information regulator 2 (SIRT2) is an NAD‐dependent histone deacetylase with known roles in the regulation of the cell cycle. SIRT2 is also a tubulin deacetylase functioning as an early mitotic checkpoint, but its roles in regulating cytoplasmic microtubule dynamics were unknown. Novel findings now indicate that SIRT2 is specifically enriched in brain oligodendroglia, where it functions specifically in modulating the oligodendrocyte cytoskeleton during its differentiation and maturation. Cell Motil. Cytoskeleton 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nuclear protein contents in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of trisomy 21 infants
Authors: Hamurcu Zuhal , Demirtas Halil , Patiroğlu Türkan , Kumandas Sefer
Published: November 2007

Objective

The trisomy 21 (Ts21) or Down's syndrome (DS) phenotype is assumed to occur primarily by the expression/overexpression of some genes encoded by the extra chromosome 21. It has recently been shown by AgNOR staining that babies with Ts21 have more AgNOR area (more NOR proteins) and more RNA content in their peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) than those of controls. The aim of this study was to test whether or not the nuclear proteins content of PBMCs from trisomy 21 babies/infants is higher than that of the controls.

Method

For this purpose, flow cytometric measurement of the stained PBMC nuclei was used. Nuclei from PBMCs was isolated and stained with propidium iodide and fluorescein isothiocyanate (PI/FITC) for DNA and protein estimation, respectively.

Results

Mean nuclear protein content of Ts21's (N = 30, mean age = 3.46 ± 3.05 years old) PBMCs was found statistically higher than that of the controls (N = 33, mean age = 3.79 ± 1.93 years old) (P = 0.005, nonparametric Mann–Whitney U test for two independent variables). This means that the average nuclear protein content of PBMC from Ts21 infants is higher than that of the controls. Furthermore, there is a moderate negative correlation between the ages of the studied DS patients and the protein content in the nuclei of their PBMCs (Linear regression analysis: P = 0.002, r = −0.55). This correlation is not found with controls (P = 0.186, r = −0.24).

Conclusion

We have concluded that average protein content of PBMCs' nuclei from DS infants is higher than that of the controls, decreasing significantly with age. © 2007 Clinical Cytometry Society
Ultrastructural analysis of chemical synapses and gap junctions between Drosophila brain neurons in culture
Authors: Oh Hyun‐Woo , Campusano Jorge M. , Hilgenberg Lutz G.W. , Sun Xicui , Smith Martin A. , O'Dowd Diane K.
Published: November 2007

Dissociated cultures from many species have been important tools for exploring factors that regulate structure and function of central neuronal synapses. We have previously shown that cells harvested from brains of late stage Drosophila pupae can regenerate their processes in vitro. Electrophysiological recordings demonstrate the formation of functional synaptic connections as early as 3 days in vitro (DIV), but no information about synapse structure is available. Here, we report that antibodies against pre‐synaptic proteins Synapsin and Bruchpilot result in punctate staining of regenerating neurites. Puncta density increases as neuritic plexuses develop over the first 4 DIV. Electron microscopy reveals that closely apposed neurites can form chemical synapses with both pre‐ and postsynaptic specializations characteristic of many inter‐neuronal synapses in the adult brain. Chemical synapses in culture are restricted to neuritic processes and some neurite pairs form reciprocal synapses. GABAergic synapses have a significantly higher percentage of clear core versus granular vesicles than non‐GABA synapses. Gap junction profiles, some adjacent to chemical synapses, suggest that neurons in culture can form purely electrical as well as mixed synapses, as they do in the brain. However, unlike adult brain, gap junctions in culture form between neuronal somata as well as neurites, suggesting soma ensheathing glia, largely absent in culture, regulate gap junction location in vivo. Thus pupal brain cultures, which support formation of interneuronal synapses with structural features similar to synapses in adult brain, are a useful model system for identifying intrinsic and extrinsic regulators of central synapse structure as well as function. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008
Temperature mapping considerations in the breast with line scan echo planar spectroscopic imaging
Authors: McDannold Nathan , Barnes Agnieszka Szot , Rybicki Frank J. , Oshio Koichi , Chen Nan‐kuei , Hynynen Kullervo , Mulkern Robert V.
Published: November 2007

A line‐scan echo planar spectroscopic imaging (LSEPSI) sequence was used to serially acquire spectra from 4096 voxels every 6.4 s throughout the breasts of nine female subjects in vivo. Data from the serial acquisitions were analyzed to determine the potential of the technique to characterize temperature changes using either the water frequency alone or the water‐methylene frequency difference. Fluctuations of the apparent temperature change under these conditions of no heating were smallest using the water‐methylene frequency difference, most probably due to a substantial reduction of motion effects both within and without the imaged plane. The approach offers considerable advantages over other methods for temperature change monitoring in the breast with magnetic resonance but suffers from some limitations, including the unavailability of lipid and water resonances in some voxels as well as a surprisingly large distribution of water‐methylene frequency differences, which may preclude absolute temperature measurement. Magn Reson Med 58:1117–1123, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Is It Time to Standardize Ethics Guiding the Peer Review Process?
Authors: Bosetti Francesca , Toscano Christopher D.
Published: November 2007

While most scientific journals have well defined ethics requirements for authors, very few journals explicitly specify the ethics standards that govern the actions of editors, editorial board members, and reviewers. We believe it is time to create a standardized policy for all medical and scientific journals that guides the ethical conduct of all stakeholders in the peer review process.
Glucose‐6‐phosphate as a probe for the glucosamine‐6‐phosphate N‐acetyltransferase Michaelis complex
Authors: Hurtado-Guerrero Ramon , Raimi Olawale , Shepherd Sharon , van Aalten Daan M.F.
Published: November 2007

Glucosamine‐6‐phosphate N‐acetyltransferase (GNA1) catalyses the N‐acetylation of d‐glucosamine‐6‐phosphate (GlcN‐6P), using acetyl‐CoA as an acetyl donor. The product GlcNAc‐6P is an intermediate in the biosynthesis UDP‐GlcNAc. GNA1 is part of the GCN5‐related acetyl transferase family (GNATs), which employ a wide range of acceptor substrates. GNA1 has been genetically validated as an antifungal drug target. Detailed knowledge of the Michaelis complex and trajectory towards the transition state would facilitate rational design of inhibitors of GNA1 and other GNAT enzymes. Using the pseudo‐substrate glucose‐6‐phosphate (Glc‐6P) as a probe with GNA1 crystals, we have trapped the first GNAT (pseudo‐)Michaelis complex, providing direct evidence for the nucleophilic attack of the substrate amine, and giving insight into the protonation of the thiolate leaving group.
God, Physicalism, and the Totality of Facts
Authors: Christofidou Andrea
Published: November 2007

The paper offers a general critique of physicalism and of one variety of nonphysicalism, arguing that such theses are untenable. By distinguishing between the absolute conception of reality and the causal completeness of physics it shows that the ‘explanatory gap’ is not merely epistemic but metaphysical. It defends the essential subjectivity and unity of consciousness and its inseparability from a self-conscious autonomous rational and moral being. Casting a favourable light on dualism freed from misconceptions, it suggests that the only plausible way forward in the search for an understanding of both physical and mental reality is a recognition of the mind as a metaphysically distinct entity.