bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SAT patterns and engineering and computer science college majors: an intersectional, state-level study
Authors: Tan Lin , Bradburn Isabel S. , Knight David B. , Kinoshita Timothy , Grohs Jacob
Published: November 2022

Background

Numerous efforts worldwide have been made to increase diversity in engineering and computer science (ECS), fields that pay well and promote upward mobility. However, in the United States (U.S.), females and students from underrepresented racial/ethnic minority groups (URM) still pursue ECS training far less than do their peers. The current study explored sex and racial/ethnic differences in ECS college enrollment as a function of math and verbal SAT score patterns (balanced or imbalanced) using an intersectional approach within a U.S. context. Data represented a census of students who took the SAT, graduated from all Virginia public high schools between 2006 and 2015, and enrolled in a 4-year college (N = 344,803).

Results

Our findings show, within each sex, URM students were at least as likely as their non-URM peers to enroll in ECS programs when they scored within similar SAT score ranges. Students were more likely to enroll in ECS programs if their SAT profile favored math, compared to students with similar math and verbal SAT scores (balanced profile). This overall pattern is notably less pronounced for URM female students; their propensity to major in ECS appeared to be largely independent of verbal scores.

Conclusions

Our findings inform strategies to diversify ECS enrollment. If programs continue to emphasize SAT scores during admission decisions or if more systemic issues of resource allocation in secondary schools are not addressed, other efforts to broaden participation in ECS programs may fall short of goals. Our findings also highlight the importance of considering the intersection of sex and race/ethnicity for recruitment or other educational promotions.
Dynamic analysis of iris changes and a deep learning system for automated angle-closure classification based on AS-OCT videos
Authors: Hao Luoying , Hu Yan , Xu Yanwu , Fu Huazhu , Miao Hanpei , Zheng Ce , Liu Jiang
Published: November 2022

Background

To study the association between dynamic iris change and primary angle-closure disease (PACD) with anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) videos and develop an automated deep learning system for angle-closure screening as well as validate its performance.

Methods

A total of 369 AS-OCT videos (19,940 frames)—159 angle-closure subjects and 210 normal controls (two datasets using different AS-OCT capturing devices)—were included. The correlation between iris changes (pupil constriction) and PACD was analyzed based on dynamic clinical parameters (pupil diameter) under the guidance of a senior ophthalmologist. A temporal network was then developed to learn discriminative temporal features from the videos. The datasets were randomly split into training, and test sets and fivefold stratified cross-validation were used to evaluate the performance.

Results

For dynamic clinical parameter evaluation, the mean velocity of pupil constriction (VPC) was significantly lower in angle-closure eyes (0.470 mm/s) than in normal eyes (0.571 mm/s) (P < 0.001), as was the acceleration of pupil constriction (APC, 3.512 mm/s2vs. 5.256 mm/s2; P < 0.001). For our temporal network, the areas under the curve of the system using AS-OCT images, original AS-OCT videos, and aligned AS-OCT videos were 0.766 (95% CI: 0.610–0.923) vs. 0.820 (95% CI: 0.680–0.961) vs. 0.905 (95% CI: 0.802–1.000) (for Casia dataset) and 0.767 (95% CI: 0.620–0.914) vs. 0.837 (95% CI: 0.713–0.961) vs. 0.919 (95% CI: 0.831–1.000) (for Zeiss dataset).

Conclusions

The results showed, comparatively, that the iris of angle-closure eyes stretches less in response to illumination than in normal eyes. Furthermore, the dynamic feature of iris motion could assist in angle-closure classification.
An evaluation of the implementation of interventions to reduce postoperative infections and optimise antibiotic use across the surgical pathway in India: a mixed-methods exploratory study protocol
Authors: Ahuja Shalini , Singh Sanjeev , Charani Esmita , Surendran Surya , Nampoothiri Vrinda , Edathadathil Fabia , George Anu , Leather Andrew , Tarrant Carolyn , Holmes Alison , Sevdalis Nick , Birgand Gabriel
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Postoperative infections represent a significant burden of disease, demanding antibiotic prescriptions, and are contributing to antimicrobial resistance. The burden of infection as a surgical complication is greater in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). We report the protocol of a pilot study for the co-design, implementation and evaluation of two infection prevention and control (IPC) and antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) interventions across the surgical pathway in a teaching hospital in India.

Methods and analysis

The two interventions developed following in-depth qualitative enquiry are (i) surveillance and feedback of postoperative infections to optimise the use of antibiotics in two surgical departments (gastrointestinal and cardiovascular and thoracic surgery) and (ii) raising awareness amongst patients, carers and members of public about IPC and AMS. We will conduct a prospective study, formatively evaluating the implementation process of delivering the two co-designed interventions using implementation science frameworks. The study will systematically assess the context of intervention delivery, so that implementation support for the interventions may be adapted to the needs of stakeholders throughout the study. Analysis of implementation logs and interviews with stakeholders upon completion of the implementation period, will offer insights into the perceived acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility and sustainability of the interventions and their implementation support. Implementation costs will be captured descriptively. Feasibility of clinical data collection to investigate effectiveness of interventions will also be assessed for a future larger study. Thematic framework analysis and descriptive statistics will be used to report the qualitative and quantitative data, respectively.

Strengths and limitations of this study

• The paired interventions have been co-designed from their inception with involvement of stakeholders at different stages in the surgical pathway.

• Simultaneous evaluation of implementation and clinical outcomes will inform the development of a future larger study to enable/assess the scalability of interventions

• The study offers a novel combination of implementation theory-informed, stakeholder-driven and clinically relevant evaluation, carried out in the context of a middle-income country hospital.

• The project may not be applicable to every low-resource setting and surgical context due to differences in healthcare systems and cultures. However, the application of implementation science concepts may facilitate transferability and adaptation to other settings.
Emigration as a social and economic determinant of health in low-income urban Zimbabwe
Authors: Chigariro Tafadzwa C. , Mhloyi Marvellous M.
Published: November 2022

Background

The negative consequences of medical professionals’ emigration on the health systems of nations are well documented in the literature. However, there is a dearth of evidence on the impact of emigration in general, on sending households’ welfare, health in particular. This study compared socio-economic characteristics, including health, of emigrants’ households with those of non-emigrants’ households in an urban setting in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey and focus group discussions were used to collect quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Concurrent and retrospective data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. The target population were households, both emigrants' households and non-emigrants' households, and the interviewees were de facto heads of the respective households.

Results

A sample of 279 households was determined; however, 268 heads of households, a response rate of 96%, were achieved. The majority of the respondents were females (52%). Emigrants’ households were more likely to access private compared to government health care facilities, than non-emigrants’ households [P = 0.001]. Emigrants' households were also more likely to report higher incomes than non-emigrants’ households [P < 0.05] and were having more meals per day and better access to education. Emigrants' households were also more likely to report positive lifestyles than non-emigrants’ households. Only 13.8% of emigrants' households reported a negative shift in lifestyle, compared to 25.2% non-emigrants' households.

Conclusions

Emigration was found to have a positive relationship with health seeking, income, education, and number of meals a household had. It is clear from the findings that emigration during the hard economic times in Zimbabwe is beneficial; it cushions households from the ravages of poverty. Yet emigration robs the nation of its professional able-bodied people. It is, therefore, recommended that the government optimises the reported positive effects, whilst expeditiously working on improving the economy with the view of reversing the observed migration streams.
Impact on change in serum beta 2 microglobulin by combination therapy of peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis: a 12-month preliminary observational study
Authors: Moriya Shinobu , Nishizawa Shun , Tsuchihashi Yayoi , Inoue Yoshihiro , Watanabe Kimio , Ito Yugo , Kin Hassu , Nakayama Masaaki
Published: November 2022

Background

In the Japanese guidelines on combination peritoneal dialysis (PD) and hemodialysis (HD) therapy, patients with serum beta 2 microglobulin (β2MG) levels less than 30 mg/L are recommended. And PD patients with β2MG more than 30 mg/L are considered to transfer to the PD + HD combination therapy. However, the resultant changes in serum β2MG levels by the introduction of PD + HD combination therapy and the factors influencing the change have not clearly elucidated.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 11 PD patients (mean age 56.4 ± 12.9 years, 10 males) with baseline β2MG levels > 30 mg/L with respect to changes in β2MG and its related factors for 12 months after the introduction of combination therapy of PD plus once a week HD (4 h) using a high-performance dialyzer. Laboratory data including hemoglobin, albumin, C-reactive protein, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and the patients’ demographic profiles, and HD-related factors, such as Kt/V and blood flow rate, were assessed.

Results

Serum β2MG levels decreased statistically significantly after the introduction of combination therapy: from 36.7 ± 6.7 mg/L at 0 months, to 33.4 ± 6.1 mg/L at 3 months (p = 0.030, compared to baseline), 32.9 ± 4.5 mg/L at 6 months (p = 0.009), and 33.3 ± 5.3 mg/L at 12 months (p = 0.023), respectively. However, only 27–36% patients achieved target β2MG levels of < 30 mg/L during the observation period. Regarding influencing factors, serum albumin levels, blood flow rates of HD, residual renal function and baseline β2MG were associated with a decrease in serum β2MG levels on univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, serum albumin at 3 and 12 months correlated significantly with Δβ2MG (β =  − 0.990, p = 0.032 at 3 months, β =  − 0.551, p = 0.033 at 12 months). Urine volume at 12 months correlated significantly with Δβ2MG (β = 0.507, p = 0.019).

Conclusions

Combination therapy of PD and HD might reduce serum β2MG levels, but with marginal efficacy. Our preliminary data indicate that the combination therapy of PD and once weekly HD is not sufficient to significantly decrease serum β2MG levels. Additional HD prescriptions, such as increase in blood flow rate and hemodiafiltration, need to be tested in order to improve β2MG levels in these patients.
A practical fully automated radiosynthesis of [18F]Flurpiridaz on the module modular lab-pharmtracer without external purification
Authors: Eryilmaz Kurtulus , Kilbas Benan
Published: November 2022

Background

[18F]Flurpiridaz is a promising novel cardiac PET imaging tracer formed by the radiolabeling of pyridaben derivative with fluorine-18. Clinical studies on [18F]Flurpiridaz are currently at the phase III level for the assessment of MPI. Providing high image quality thanks to its relatively long half-life, F-18 is a high-potential radionuclide for the early detection of CAD. In this study, we aimed to develop a fully automated synthesis of [18F]Flurpiridaz without further preparative HPLC purification.

Results

Precursor 6 was obtained by multi-step synthesis starting from mucochloric acid (1) as a sole product with 35% yield and identified by spectroscopic measurement. Manually cold labeling experiments were performed using the stable isotope [19F]F, and TBA-HCO3 PTC provided desirable fluorinated compound with high yield. A fully automated [18F]Flurpiridaz synthesis on the ML-PT device provided 55–65% radiochemical yield with more than 98% radiochemical purity. The final product purification method demonstrated that [18F]Flurpiridaz could be obtained without an external preparative HPLC system as a pharmaceutical quality.

Conclusion

A novel and fascinating strategy was developed for the fully automated synthesis of [18F]Flurpiridaz (7) on ML PT. Organic synthesis of precursor 6 was achieved with a desirable yield and characterized by NMR and HR-MS. A detailed set of cold experiments were completed for optimization conditions before hot trials and TBA-HCO3 increased molar activity with a minimum amount of side products. Radiolabeling showed that our self-designed automated synthesis method enables high radiochemical yield and radiochemical purity for the production of [18F]Flurpiridaz. The desirable radiopharmaceutical quality of the product was obtained without using an additional preparative HPLC system. [18F]Flurpiridaz (7) preserved its stability within 12 h and final specifications were consistent with the acceptance criteria in Ph. Eur. regulations.
A hybrid circuit breaker with fault current limiter circuit in a VSC-HVDC application
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad , Gong Chunyang , Nadeem Muhammad Haroon , Chen Hui , Wang Zhixin
Published: November 2022

A conventional hybrid circuit breaker (HCB) is used to protect a voltage source converter-based high voltage direct current transmission system (VSC-HVDC) from a short circuit fault. With the increased converter capacity, the DC protection equipment also requires a regular upgrade. This paper adopts a novel type of HCB with a fault current limiter circuit (FCLC), and focuses on the responses of voltage and current during DC faults, which are associated with parameter selection. PSCAD/EMTDC based simulation of a three-terminal VSC-HVDC system confirms the effectiveness and value of HCB with FCLC, by using an equivalent circuit modelling approach. Laboratory experimental tests validate the simulation results. The peak fault current is reduced according to the current limiting inductor (CLI) increase, and can be isolated more quickly. By adopting parallel metal oxide arrester (MOA) with the main branch of HCB, voltage stresses across the breaker components decrease during transient and continuous operation, and less energy needs to be dissipated by the MOA. The remnant current for all cases is transmitted to power dissipating resistor (PDR) in the final stage, and the fault current is reduced to the lowest possible value. When the current from the main branch is transferred to the FCLC branch, transient voltage spikes occur, while smaller PDR is required to absorb current in the final stage.
Migraine as a risk factor for ischemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Adnyana I Made Oka , Widyadharma I Putu Eka , Tedyanto Eric Hartono , Wijayanti Ida Ayu Sri , Mahadewi Ni Putu Ayu Putri
Published: November 2022

Background

Migraine and stroke are neurovascular diseases that have become a public health problem and a relatively high economic burden. The relationship between migraine and stroke has been described in the literature for a long time. Several studies reveal that migraine can be a risk factor for stroke.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed using the PRISMA method and keywords according to MeSH terms to prepare this systematic review. We included published articles discussing migraine as a risk factor for ischemic stroke with a cohort study design and English article and listed the statistical value of the study.

Results

In our meta-analysis, we found that migraine significantly increases the incidence of ischemic stroke. There were 12 studies included in this systematic review, and a meta-analysis was performed. The results showed a significant association between migraine and ischemic stroke (HR 1.205, 95% CI 1.151–1.262 p = 0.000), migraine with aura and ischemic stroke (HR 1.442, 95% CI 1.241–1.675 p = 0.000), and migraine without aura and ischemic stroke (HR 1.126, 95% CI 1.048–1.211 p = 0.001). The exact mechanism of stroke caused by migraine is still unclear, although, in some theories, several mechanisms have been described that are thought to be the cause of stroke. Several important points of the cause of stroke in migraine are hemodynamic changes, endothelial dysfunction, cervical artery dissection, vascular reactivity, hypercoagulability, and abortive migraine drugs.

Conclusions

Both migraine with aura and without aura are risk factors for ischemic stroke. Several mechanisms that may cause ischemic stroke in migraine have been described, of which CSD-induced endothelial dysfunction is the primary pathophysiology of ischemic stroke in migraine.
Machine learning for enumeration of cell colony forming units
Authors: Zhang Louis
Published: November 2022

As one of the most widely used assays in biological research, an enumeration of the bacterial cell colonies is an important but time-consuming and labor-intensive process. To speed up the colony counting, a machine learning method is presented for counting the colony forming units (CFUs), which is referred to as CFUCounter. This cell-counting program processes digital images and segments bacterial colonies. The algorithm combines unsupervised machine learning, iterative adaptive thresholding, and local-minima-based watershed segmentation to enable an accurate and robust cell counting. Compared to a manual counting method, CFUCounter supports color-based CFU classification, allows plates containing heterologous colonies to be counted individually, and demonstrates overall performance (slope 0.996, SD 0.013, 95%CI: 0.97–1.02, p value < 1e-11, r = 0.999) indistinguishable from the gold standard of point-and-click counting. This CFUCounter application is open-source and easy to use as a unique addition to the arsenal of colony-counting tools.
A bone-conserving revision stem for unstable intertrochanteric fractures of the geriatric osteoporotic population
Authors: Chen Mengcun , Wang Jinlong , Cheema Adnan N. , Yang Shuhua , Liu Xianzhe
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Primary hemiarthroplasty is gaining popularity for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fractures in geriatric patients with severe osteoporosis. This study evaluated early clinical and radiographic outcomes by using a bone-conserving revision stem for unstable intertrochanteric fractures in the geriatric osteoporotic population.

Methods

A retrospective study involving 31 patients with unstable intertrochanteric fractures was conducted. The patients were aged 82.1 years on average. All patients underwent primary hemiarthroplasty using bone-conserving, fully porous-coated revision stem. The operative time, intraoperative blood loss, length of hospitalization, and need for blood transfusion were noted during the hospital stay. Postoperative complications, including dislocations, deep venous thrombosis, infections, peri-prosthetic fractures, and frontal thigh pain were also recorded. Koval's category was used to quantify activity level, and Harris hip score (HHS) was used for functional assessment. Radiographic outcomes, including osteolysis, bone ingrowth, subsidence of the femoral component, lower limb length discrepancy, and heterotopic ossification, were collected at each follow-up.

Results

The 31 patients were followed for an average time of 23 months postoperatively. The average operative time lasted for 74.2 min, while the mean intraoperative blood loss was 200.1 ml, with an average hemoglobin decrease of 11.1 g/L after the procedure. The mean visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain dropped from 7.4 preoperatively to 2.4 at the 4-week follow-up. At the latest follow-up, the mean Harris hip score was 82.1, and the VAS was 1.7. No intraoperative or postoperative peri-prosthetic fractures were noted. Postoperative complications included one case of thrombosis formation in the posterior tibial vein and one case of congestive heart failure. Both patients were discharged uneventfully after treatment. Radiographically, none of the hips had evidence of stem loosening or osteolysis. Within the follow-up period of 23 months, the mortality rate was 3.2% (1/31), and no revision surgeries were required.

Conclusion

Primary hemiarthroplasty using a bone-conserving, cementless revision stem could serve as a reliable alternative for the treatment of unstable intertrochanteric fractures in the geriatric population with osteoporosis.
Applying concepts from “rapid” and “agile” implementation to advance implementation research
Authors: Quanbeck Andrew , Hennessy Rose Garza , Park Linda
Published: November 2022

Background

The translation of research findings into practice can be improved to maximize benefits more quickly and with greater flexibility. To expedite translation, researchers have developed innovative approaches to implementation branded as “rapid” and “agile” implementation. Rapid implementation has roots in precision medicine and agile implementation has roots in systems engineering and software design. Research has shown that innovation often derives from learning and applying ideas that have impacted other fields.

Implications for implementation researchers

This commentary examines “rapid” and “agile” approaches to implementation and provides recommendations to implementation researchers stemming from these approaches. Four key ideas are synthesized that may be broadly applicable to implementation research, including (1) adopting a problem orientation, (2) applying lessons from behavioral economics, (3) using adaptive study designs and adaptive interventions, and (4) using multi-level models to guide implementation. Examples are highlighted from the field where researchers are applying these key ideas to illustrate their potential impact.

Conclusions

“Rapid” and “agile” implementation approaches to implementation stem from diverse fields. Elements of these approaches show potential for advancing implementation research, although adopting them may entail shifting scientific norms in the field.
Business climate and firm exit in developing countries: evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Orjiakor Ebuka Christian
Published: November 2022

The business environment goes a long way to influence firm performance through several channels such as government policies and regulations, institutions, infrastructure, and macroeconomic variations. With developing countries known for having the most deteriorating business climate, this study set out to answer the question: "Does business climate account for firm exit in developing countries?" Using a comprehensive dataset of panel firms from the World Bank Enterprise Survey in Nigeria, the study aggregates 15 firm-level constraint variables into a composite index and estimates the likelihood of firm exit using the binary probit model. The results from the analysis infer that the unconducive state of the business climate in Nigeria significantly impedes firms’ prospects for survival. More specifically, the estimated probability of exiting the market is predicted to grow by 11% points for every additional increase in the constraint index. The recommendation follows that efforts should be geared toward improving the state of the business climate in Nigeria through carefully designed policies that can foster private sector development. Such policies should among others increase government investment in critical infrastructure, eliminate destructive tax policies, and maintain a healthy macroeconomic environment, which by implication, go a long way to improve business longevity and contributes to national development.
Insights Into the Role of DNA Methylation and Gene Expression in Graves Orbitopathy
Authors: Rotondo Dottore Giovanna , Lanzolla Giulia , Comi Simone , Menconi Francesca , Mencacci Lodovica Cristofani , Dallan Iacopo , Marcocci Claudio , Marinò Michele
Published: November 2022

Context

A role of DNA methylation in Graves orbitopathy (GO) has been proposed.

Objective

This work aimed to investigate DNA methylation and gene expression in orbital fibroblasts from control and GO patients, under basal conditions or following challenge with an anti- thyrotropin (TSH) receptor antibody (M22) or cytokines involved in GO; to investigate the relationship between DNA methylation and cell function (proliferation); and to perform a methylome analysis.

Methods

Orbital fibroblasts from 6 GO and 6 control patients from a referral center underwent methylome analysis of the whole genome.

Results

Global DNA methylation increased significantly both in control and GO fibroblasts on incubation with M22. Expression of 2 selected genes (CYP19A1 and AIFM2) was variably affected by M22 and interleukin-6. M22 increased cell proliferation in control and GO fibroblasts, which correlated with global DNA methylation. Methylome analysis revealed 19 869 DNA regions differently methylated in GO fibroblasts, encompassing 3957 genes and involving CpG islands, shores, and shelves. A total of 119 gene families and subfamilies, 89 protein groups, 402 biological processes, and 7 pathways were involved. Three genes found to be differentially expressed were concordantly hypermethylated or hypomethylated. Among the differently methylated genes, insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor and several fibroblast growth factors and receptors were included.

Conclusion

We propose that, when exposed to an autoimmune environment, orbital fibroblasts undergo hypermethylation or hypomethylation of certain genes, involving CpG promoters, which results in differential gene expression, which may be responsible for functional alterations, in particular higher proliferation, and ultimately for the GO phenotype in vivo.
Depression and suicide risk in dermatological diseases - a review of the literature
Authors: Hordejuk Michalina , Marczak Aleksandra , Szymkiewicz Karolina , Hyjek Michał
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Depression can be an independent disease entity, but can also result from other somatic diseases. Psychodermatology is a scientific field that deals with the interactions between dermatology and psychiatry and psychology. It is estimated that psychiatric disorders may co-occur in up to 30-60% of people with dermatological conditions. Mood disorders of the depressive type are most common among this group of patients [1]. It is important that skin specialists pay attention to the mental state of their patients in their daily practice. 

Objective

In our work, we would like to draw attention to the interplay between psychiatric and dermatological diseases. 

Methods

A literature search was performed in the PubMed medical publication database using the following keywords: depression; dermatology; skin; somatic; psychiatry; psoriasis; atopic dermatitis; acnes vulgaris; suicidal risk.

Results

There is a proven risk of depression in patients with psoriasis, acne and atopic dermatitis. These diseases also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts.

Conclusions

Awareness among professionals and patients of the co-occurrence of these disorders is insufficient, which in some cases can lead to serious consequences for the patient and affect the effectiveness of treatment of both dermatological and psychiatric disorders.
A Rare Case Report of Primary Hydatid Disease of the Scapula – an Unforeseen Diagnosis!
Authors: Verghese Sumant Chacko , George Sandeep T , Duraisamy Praveen , Karthikeyan T M , Kumar S Arun , Arasu Sabari
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Hydatid disease of the bone is a parasitic infestation in the form of cystic echinococcosis by a tapeworm echinococcus granulosus. Its manifestation in the bone is relatively low and has the ability to mimic other skeletal pathologies. Case Report: We came across a 30-year-old male farmer with complaints of sero-purulent discharge from a sinus tract wound in the axilla for the past 3 years. He had been previously evaluated elsewhere with blood investigations, pus culture/sensitivity tests, MRI, and CT scans. Blood reports and culture/sensitivity tests were inconclusive and imaging tests were suggestive of a sinus tract originating from the right scapula. He was incorrectly diagnosed as a case of Tuberculosis of the Scapula and started on anti-tubercular medications for 9 months which was ineffective. To confirm the diagnosis, a biopsy was taken from the scapular lesion through a posterior approach. Histological tests revealed a cystic lesion composed of trilaminar membrane consisting of dead and degenerating scolices consistent with “Hydatid Cyst of Bone.” Conclusion: Hydatid disease of the bone has an inconsistent clinical picture which makes diagnosing this rare disease even more difficult. A high suspicion for hydatid infestation in bone pathologies could help in diagnosing the disease at the earliest.
Biochemical profile, antioxidant effect and antifungal activity of Saudi Ziziphus spina-christi L. for vaginal lotion formulation
Authors: Hallouma Bilel , Hani Mohamed Awad Abdelzaher , Shaima Mohamed Nabil Moustafa
Published: November 2022

Ziziphus spina-christi L. extract from the northern region of Saudi Arabia, was investigated to determine its chemical composition and to evaluate its antioxidant and antifungal properties. Fresh leaves were extracted using Soxhlet apparatus and the yield was 8% w/w. Results of the qualitative study showed that this extract is rich in chemical compounds belonging to several classes (saponins, phenols, tannins). GC-MS analysis detected 38 chemical compounds with different concentrations representing 99.71 % of the total extract. However, Z. spina-christi leaves extract is mainly composed of Octadecanoic acid, 2-hydroxy-1-(hydroxymethyl)ethylester (18.80%). The extract has free radical scavenging activity at different concentrations and the best result was obtained with IC50 of 148.33 µg/ml. C. albicans and other Candida species caused vulvovaginal candidiasis, which is a high-risk occurrence in hospitalized patients. In vitro antifungal activity was investigated by the agar well diffusion test to measure and compare diameter of zones of inhibition (in mm) against Candida albicans, Candida glabrata and Candida tropicalis. Ethanolic extract of Z. spina-christi demonstrated a substantial inhibitory impact on several Candida species, especially against C. glabrata which has the highest inhibitory effect (90%). Therefore, Saudi Z. spina-christi leaves extract is a source of natural antioxidants and it can be used as well antifungal pharmaceutical product.
Traditional knowledge-based agricultural practices in Tribal dominated District Anuppur, Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Kurmi Anil , Kaushik Sandeep , Pandey Sachindra Kumar , Nagre Suryakant , Shweta Subramaniam , Thomas Moni
Published: November 2022

Traditional knowledge is the backbone of the agricultural system of any country. These traditional knowledge-based agricultural practices were phased out and replaced with modern agricultural practices. However, in the present scenario, these time tested traditional practices again have made a comeback due to their ability to sustain and overcome the obstacles posed by anthropogenic activities, land degradation, excessive and rampant usage of fertilizers, insecticides and pesticides, etc. In spite of this traditional knowledge has been confined to some secluded areas in particular among the indigenous, tribal, forest-dwelling communities. The present study has been aimed to document the Traditional knowledge-based agricultural practices in Tribal dominated District Anuppur, Madhya Pradesh. More than thirty agricultural practices have been documented during our study which has revealed the potential of this area which can be a model for natural, organic, sustainable farming, paving the way toward resilient agricultural systems.
A general method to study the convergence of nonlinear operators in Orlicz spaces
Authors: Vinti Gianluca , Zampogni Luca
Published: November 2022

We continue the work started in a previous article and introduce a general setting in which we define nets of nonlinear operators whose domains are some set of functions defined in a locally compact topological group. We analyze the behavior of such nets and detect the fairest assumption, which are needed for the nets to converge with respect to the uniform convergence and in the setting of Orlicz spaces. As a consequence, we give results of convergence in this frame, study some important special cases, and provide graphical representations.
Boosting the photocatalytic performance of the oligo (phenylene vinylene) moiety by copolymerization for the heterogeneous degradation of indigo carmine dye
Authors: Acelas Mauricio , Pérez León D. , Sierra César A.
Published: November 2022

The copolymerization with flexible and rigid spacers of 4,4’-((1E, 1′E)-(2,5-dimethoxy-1,4-phenylene)bis (ethene-2,1-diyl))dibenzoic acid, as a promising phenylene vinylene-based (PV) organic photocatalyst, was examined as a strategy to validate the effect of such chemical modifications in the modulation of the photocatalytic properties of this organic π-conjugated moiety. The polymers prepared here were fully characterized and evaluated as photocatalysts in the degradation of indigo carmine dye under two different irradiation scenarios (UVA and visible), consistently displaying a superior efficiency in contrast to their monomeric oligo (phenylene vinylene) (OPV) counterparts. Scavenging experiments confirmed that photocatalysis proceeds via the generation of superoxide radicals (O2
•–), singlet oxygen (1O2), and direct oxidation. The obtained results proved that the insertion of an aromatic rigid spacer not only prompts an enhancement in the photocatalytic activity of the phenylene vinylene-based polymers but also increases the stability of the OPV moiety by minimizing the reaction of the vinyl fragments with reactive oxygen species. This was demonstrated with the reuse experiments, where 96% of the photocatalytic activity was preserved throughout the first five reuse cycles.
Formulating calcium carbonate masterbatches
Authors: Radebe Lucky , Wesley-Smith James , Focke Walter W. , Ramjee Shatish
Published: November 2022

The effects of filler content, filler particle size and surface coating, as well as the natures of the wax and metal stearate lubricants on the properties of calcium carbonate-filled linear low-density polyethylene compounds were investigated. The elongation at break decreased exponentially with filler loading irrespective of whether the filler was surface coated or not. The corresponding decline in the impact strength was more gradual but it dropped abruptly on reaching a filler loading of 70 wt%. The effect of shear rate on the apparent melt viscosity followed an empirically modified Carreau–Yasuda model which included the effect of filler content. It features the zero-shear viscosity and the flow consistency index as adjustable parameters. These characterize the viscosity trends at low- and high-shear rates, respectively. In the absence of additives, the melt viscosity at 60 wt% filler exceeded that of the neat polymer by a factor of three. Adding 3 wt% wax and 1.0 wt% zinc stearate returned the melt viscosity to levels just above that of the neat polymer. Calcium stearate and magnesium stearate were less effective at reducing the apparent melt viscosity but a blend of the latter with zinc stearate performed particularly well.
Im Spannungsfeld von Mehrsprachigkeit und Variantenvielfalt: Sprachpolitische Positionen zum Kroatischen im Burgenland am Beispiel Ignac Horvats
Authors: Tyran Katharina
Published: November 2022

Among the Croatian speaking population and their elites in former Western Hungary and later Burgenland, standard written language issues have been debated throughout the 20th century. Various language policy entrepreneurs favored for a convergence with Serbo-Croatian / Croato-Serbian or the common Štokavian standard language, respectively. My article focuses on one such linguistic entrepreneur, Ignac Horvat, who was not a linguist by training, but as a priest, editor and writer one of the leading voices since the interwar period. His language policy articulated in newspaper articles as well as two typewritten and autotyped orthographic compilations vividly shows that minority languages always have to position themselves in a multilingual context and that language policy actors of such “small” languages try to follow the concepts of “bigger” standard languages. His linguistic policy, however, eventually failed and highlights that in standardization processes of minority languages ideologies are often oriented differently, rejecting stigmatization of local forms, but exaggerated emphasizing intelligibility as the main factor for language maintenance.
Linguistic Diversity in East-Central European Minority Literature: The Post-Imperial Borderlands of Petar Milošević
Authors: Vervaet Stijn
Published: November 2022

Most recent studies on multilingual writing deal with literature by first- or second-generation immigrants. This article responds to debates about multilingual literature by examining the asymmetrical, historically-rooted multilingualism of minority groups in East-Central Europe. It does so by exploring linguistic diversity and its effects in the novels of the bilingual Serbian-Hungarian author Petar Milošević, novels that put the Serbian minority in Hungary centre stage. It is argued that Milošević’s prose fiction not only invites the reader to rethink the nature of script, standard language and cultural identity as historically contingent and multiply entangled, but also effectively refashions the cultural memory of the Serbian minority in Hungary. The novels’ broader relevance lies in their foregrounding of the minority’s cultural and linguistic doubleness, both in relation to the nation-state in which they live and to the external homeland. As such, they also potentially illuminate the position of other linguistic minorities in former Habsburg borderlands.
Tradicionalidad discursiva e influencia del francés en la gramaticalización de en definitiva como marcador del discurso
Authors: Llopis Cardona Ana
Published: November 2022

This paper addresses the grammaticalization of Spanish en definitiva as a discourse marker. The objectives are threefold: to enquire about previous changes and discourse traditions that took place, to outline the path to the new values that were acquired, and to ascertain whether the French construction en définitive had an influence on the Spanish one during the grammaticalization process. To do so, we examined the cases found in Frantext for French, while for the Spanish data, we used Corpus del Diccionario histórico de la lengua española and Corpus diacrónico del español. Additionally, Gallica and Hemeroteca Digital were used to fill the gaps in the documentation for the 18th and 19th centuries. The results show that en definitiva might have undergone a vernacular evolution fixing as a ritual formula that gave rise to a modal construction and later assimilated new discourse uses as loan translations from the French construction en définitive. This finding leads to deeper consideration of the evolution of Modern French discourse markers and 19th century Spanish press.
De amor y primavera: el debate entre don Denis y Airas Nunez
Authors: Lorenzo Gradín Pilar
Published: November 2022

Critics have interpreted Don Denis’ cantiga Proençaes soen mui bem trobar as a diatribe directed against Occitan troubadours who associated in their poems springtime exordium and song for love. Although some have considered the particular piece of the Portuguese king an aesthetic recreation of the cansós that rejected the début printanier cliché, in this contribution a different reading is proposed. Given that in the entire corpus of the cantigas de amor there is only one text by the Galician clergyman Airas Nunez (Que muito m’eu pago d’este verão) that unites spring, euphoric love, and lyrical activity, this article argues that Don Denis’ poem emerged as a polemic and ironic response to the eccentric verses of his colleague. From the proposed perspective, the king’s cantiga is contextually situated and understood as part of a series of texts that integrate the king and the clergyman’s metaliterary debate on the conception of love.
Avances legislativos y normativos en la gestión educativa en Colombia
Authors: Rodriguez Rojas Yuber Liliana
Published: November 2022

La educación es el motor de desarrollo de un país, por lo tanto, es uno de los ejes que todo gobierno debe impulsar. Colombia ha venido consolidando su sistema de aseguramiento de la calidad, con el fin de brindar criterios más sólidos para que las instituciones de educación eleven la calidad de sus programas de formación.
What Made Me an Entrepreneur?
Authors: Canco Irina
Published: November 2022

Purpose: The purpose of the paper is the presentation of creation and development of entrepreneurship by giving evidence on the influence of determining factors. In this context, the issues of this study can serve as motivation for young people to believe in their personal abilities and engage in entrepreneurial activities to influence economic growth in the country.
Design/Method/Approach: The study considers the previous studies for the entrepreneurship/ The paper focus is a business-case study/ Business activity is analyzed in some aspects based on data collected through questionnaires.
Findings: Some of the most important findings are an entrepreneur’s personality characteristics, his previous experience in the relevant field, the prominent initiative and high level of risk taking, his open-mindedness, the entrepreneur takes care of creation and preservation of business reputation under the slogan: Family, work, and satisfaction as important conditions for the establishment of good human relationships.
Theoretical Implications: From the theoretical point of view, the paper evidences the fact that entrepreneurship is a study field relatively new. Therefore, every study is important because they increase the number of theoretical studies in this field which is multidisciplinary.
Practical Implications: The paper reflects the successful path of an entrepreneur who, despite some hardships, realizes an individual vision and fills in the needs he sees in society bringing new products or services into the marketplace.
Originality/Value: The paper analyzes the birth, growth and development of a concrete enterprise in given conditions, and this emphasizes the deeply original character of the study.
Research Limitations/Future Research: The paper analyzes a concrete case, and it constitutes a limitation. However, it refers to a certain period of time, concretely the post-dictatorial period, with worsened macroeconomic parameters, which should be considered by future researchers.
The change of the socio-economic development strategy in Albania was reflected in the environment that creates opportunities and responsive perspectives for human resources with a long-term outlook. Engaging in long-term productive economies is a risky occupation. The risk is conditioned by time, individual effort, available information and space. This paper is based on the results generated from surveying the occupation of one of the most successful enterprises that started its activity in the first years of the change of the socio-economic system. Through a case study, the paper also discusses theoretical problems of entrepreneurship over the years, as well as possible methods of managing an enterprise. In conclusion, it shows how individuals who are creative and motivated to find new ways to enter a market are the main support to business success.
Paper type: Empirical
Detecting Earnings Management Practices in European Insurance Sector: Purpose and Application of Accrual Modelling and Distribution of Earnings
Authors: De Nichilo Stefano
Published: November 2022

Purpose: The purpose of the present paper was to gauge the extent of the impact on earnings management derived from the adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) 17 as well as detecting whether the impact will be similar in different European “Insurance” and “Reinsurance” industries.
Design/Method/Approach: To provide empirical evidence that earnings management is more frequent in some countries and less frequent in others by means of a statistical analysis, a sample of European listed “Insurance” and “Reinsurance” companies in the period of 2018-2020 was observed. The Jones Model was applied.
Findings: This study concerns the implementation of a new principle, written to discipline the accountancy of insurances contracts, and its consequences must be carefully analyzed and monitored by regulators, as well as correctly adopted by managers, as the determined revenues could have an impact on the pre-existing earning management practices.
Theoretical Implications: The paper of the present research also concerns the predictions about the behavior of managers that can be foreseen considering the agency theory; therefore, knowing ex-ante in which industries earnings management has a high impact, provides the option to foresee the hypothetical moves of the managers in the implementation of IFRS 17.
Practical Implications: The analysis demonstrated that the “Insurance” industry is impacted by earnings management practices to a greater extent than the “Reinsurance” industry. These results should be analyzed simultaneously with the results from by the “Big Four” analysis concerning the impact of the introduction of IFRS 17.
Originality/Value: Specifically, companies belonging to two sectors were selected: “Insurance” and “Reinsurance”. The statistical analysis brought to light that earnings management practices are “commonly adopted” in the “Insurance” and “Reinsurance” industry, which is consequently highly impacted by the introduction of IFRS 17.
Research Limitations/Future Research: The total number of observations is high, all companies analyzed belong to only two industries. The analysis could be extended to a greater number of industries and companies in order to provide a more complete overview of the presence and the persistence of earnings management policies in different typologies of European financial listed companies.
Paper type: Empirical