bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Using Educational Games as a Tool in Teaching English Vocabulary to Arab Young Children: A Quasi-Experimental Study in a Kindergarten School in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Saleh Alaa Mamoun , Ahmed Althaqafi Abeer Sultan
Published: March 2022

Vocabulary is an essential element of English language learning. There are many strategies, which teachers can use in teaching vocabulary, especially to young learners. One of these strategies is using educational games to teach vocabulary more effectively. The aim of this quasi-experimental study is to investigate the effect of using educational games on the vocabulary learning of young children. The research was conducted at a kindergarten in Saudi Arabia, in which the participants were 40 Arab young learners. They were between 5 and 6 years old, and all of them were nonnative speakers. Participants were divided into two groups, control, and experimental group. The experimental and control group comprised of twenty students each. The experimental group was taught using games in which the children were involved. On the other hand, the control group was taught using a more “traditional” method by repetition. A vocabulary-based test, presenting as a pre-test, post-test, and delayed post-test, was assigned to both groups. The study revealed that applying educational games as a learning technique with young learners, increased learner engagement, improved knowledge absorption and retention, and gave learners the opportunity to see real word application. Accordingly, this study recommends using educational games in teaching vocabulary more creatively with young learners.
Improving Hearing Protection Device Noise Attenuation Through Fit-Testing in an Occupational Health Clinic
Authors: Hayes Melanie Ezell , Hammond Stephanie , Montgomery Aoyjai P. , Stephenson Laura
Published: March 2022

Background:

Occupational noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the second most common medical disability for military veterans and accounts for 24% of all hearing loss in the United States. Hearing loss negatively affects health and billions of dollars are spent annually for direct and indirect medical costs and lost work productivity. Proper hearing protection device (HPD) fit can prevent NIHL. Quantitative fit-testing systems to determine personal attenuation rates (PARs) are available, but not widely utilized. Without quantitative testing, validating appropriate fit and attenuation to a permissible exposure level to prevent NIHL is difficult.

Methods:

A quality improvement project measured 100 employees enrolled in a hearing conservation program (HCP) to determine if they obtained a target PAR after inserting the HPDs in their “usual” fashion. Those who did not obtain target PAR ( n = 27) received an evidence-based intervention that demonstrated proper HPD fit by a skilled trainer followed by a repeat attempt by the participant to replicate the feel of the demonstrated HPD placement. PAR was subsequently measured to assess for appropriate noise attenuation.

Findings:

Seventy-one percent achieved target PAR (≥ 20 decibels) at baseline testing. After the intervention, 91 of 100 participants had achieved target PAR, a 20% improvement.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice:

Findings suggest this evidence-based intervention was an effective strategy for improving HPD fit for employees enrolled in HCPs. This intervention may prevent occupational hearing loss and decrease the health and socioeconomic impacts of NIHL.
Linking Problems Reported by Care Partners of Individuals With Alzheimer’s Disease and Lewy Body Dementia to the International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health
Authors: Kew Chung Lin , Juengst Shannon B. , Kelley Brendan , Osborne Candice L.
Published: March 2022

Aim

This study aims to classify, describe, and compare the problems reported by care partners of adults with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Lewy body dementia (LBD) using the International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health (ICF)

Methods

Problems that care partners experience were collected during a problem-solving training intervention. The meaningful concepts were then extracted and linked to the ICF using a standardized linking technique.

Results

402 meaningful concepts were extracted from 128 problems reported by care partners. 79.4% of the concepts were linkable to the ICF. “Body functions” was most frequently addressed followed by “Activities and participation.” LBD care partners reported more problems (M = 23.6 ± 13.4) on average than AD care partners (M = 19.4 ± 12.1). LBD care partners reported greater relative proportions of problems in mental function (emotional and sleep functions) than AD care partners.

Conclusion

This study suggests that the experience of LBD care partners may include significantly more challenges and may be more emotionally demanding than the care experience of AD care partners. Interventions designed to support care partners of adults with dementia may need to be tailored to meet the needs of care partners based on the care receiver’s type of dementia.
Servant Leadership and Project Success: Unleashing the Missing Links of Work Engagement, Project Work Withdrawal, and Project Identification
Authors: Nauman Shazia , Musawir Ata Ul , Malik Sania Zahra , Munir Hina
Published: March 2022

Employing self-determination and social identification theories, we examined how servant leadership, which focuses on employees’ needs, influences project success. Based on 453 responses from project team leader–project team member dyads working in a single organization, our findings suggest that servant leadership enhances project success predominantly by mitigating project work withdrawal, rather than accentuating work engagement. Additionally, when team members’ project identification is high, the servant leadership–work engagement relationship is weakened, whereas the servant leadership–project work withdrawal relationship is strengthened. We contribute to the nascent literature that positions servant leadership as an effective style in the project context.
Second derivative UV–visible spectroscopy characterizing structural components of dissolved and particulate organic matter in an urbanized river
Authors: Xu Weining , Yu Huibin , Yang Fang , Yang Feng , Liu Dongping , Lu Koutian , Gao Hongjie , Song Yonghui
Published: March 2022

Background

Spatio-temporal variations of structural components of the POM–DOM fractions exhibit in urban rivers, which is valuable information to reveal dynamic migration and transformation within and between the organic matter pools, also provide important support for river water quality improvement and management measures. Second derivative UV–visible spectroscopy (SDUVS) was applied to simultaneously characterize structural components and spatial variations of dissolved (DOM: Diameter < 0.2 μm) and particulate (POM1: 0.2 < diameter < 0.7 μm; POM2: diameter > 0.7 μm) organic matters in an urbanized river of northeast China.

Results

Thirty-six water samples were collected from mainstream and tributaries along a human impact gradient, i.e., rural, town and urban regions. The DOM was a representative fraction for the natural organic matter pool, which was mostly derived from allochthonous and terrestrial sources. Four components C1 to C4 were identified from the POM–DOM fractions by the SDUVS. The C1 associated with phenolic groups and the C2 related to carboxylic groups were dominant for the organic matter pool. The C3 was composed of the primary humificated materials, and the %C3 was kept relatively consistent in the organic matter pool. The C4 presented deeply humificated organic matter with the increase of aromatic and alkyl structures. The average %C4 of the POM pool was higher than that of the DOM pool, indicating that the humification degree of the POM fractions was higher than that of the DOM fraction.

Conclusions

Moreover, the tributaries had a higher average %C4 within the DOM than the mainstream, and trends of the POM pool were similar to the DOM pool. The trophic level of the river water decreased in the order of urban region > town region > rural region, while the molecular sizes of the POM–DOM decreased in the order of rural region > town region > urban region.

Graphical Abstract
School culture and student mental health: a qualitative study in UK secondary schools
Authors: Jessiman Patricia , Kidger Judi , Spencer Liam , Geijer-Simpson Emma , Kaluzeviciute Greta , Burn Anne–Marie , Leonard Naomi , Limmer Mark
Published: March 2022

Background

There is consistency of evidence on the link between school culture and student health. A positive school culture has been associated with positive child and youth development, effective risk prevention and health promotion efforts, with extensive evidence for the impact on student mental health. Interventions which focus on socio-cultural elements of school life, and which involve students actively in the process, are increasingly understood to be important for student mental health promotion. This qualitative study was undertaken in three UK secondary schools prior to the implementation of a participative action research study bringing students and staff together to identify changes to school culture that might impact student mental health. The aim was to identify how school culture is conceptualised by students, parents and staff in three UK secondary schools. A secondary aim was to explore which components of school culture were perceived to be most important for student mental health.

Methods

Across three schools, 27 staff and seven parents participated in in-depth interviews, and 28 students participated in four focus groups. The Framework Method of thematic analysis was applied.

Results

Respondents identified elements of school culture that aligned into four dimensions; structure and context, organisational and academic, community, and safety and support. There was strong evidence of the interdependence of the four dimensions in shaping the culture of a school.

Conclusions

School staff who seek to shape and improve school culture as a means of promoting student mental health may have better results if this interdependence is acknowledged, and improvements are addressed across all four dimensions.
Assessing physical workload among people with musculoskeletal disorders: validity and reliability of the physical workload questionnaire
Authors: Kjønø Lise Grethe , Killingmo Rikke Munk , Vigdal Ørjan Nesse , Grotle Margreth , Storheim Kjersti
Published: March 2022

Background

Demands of physical work are related to musculoskeletal disorders, and hence, important to assess. The Physical Workload Questionnaire (PWQ) is based on 26 items related to physical workload. The PWQ has been translated into Norwegian, but its psychometric properties have not yet been tested. The aim of this study was to assess the validity and reliability of the PWQ among patients with musculoskeletal disorders.

Methods

A cross-sectional study with a test-retest design was conducted to assess construct validity (structural validity and hypothesis testing) and reliability (internal consistency and test-retest reliability) among employed patients with musculoskeletal disorders. Exploratory factor analysis was performed to assess the structural validity and number of items to be included in the Norwegian version of the PWQ. Hypothesis testing was assessed by 14 a priori hypotheses (“known” group, convergent and discriminant validity). Internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha and test-retest reliability by Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC2.1), Standard Error of Measurement (SEMagreement) and Smallest Detectable Change (SDC95%ind).

Results

In total, 115 patients with a mean age (SD) of 46 (9) years were included, of which 48 were included in the reliability analyses. Exploratory factor analysis resulted in two subscales: “Heavy physical work” (15 items, range 0–100) and “Long-lasting postures and repetitive movements” (7 items, range 0–100). No floor or ceiling effects were seen in the subscales. Twelve of the 14 (85%) predefined hypotheses were confirmed. The internal consistency with Cronbach’s alpha was 0.94 and 0.85 on subscales 1 and 2, respectively. Test-retest reliability analyses demonstrated an ICC2.1 of 0.96 (95% CI 0.88, 0.98) and 0.92 (95% CI 0.81, 0.96), SEM of 6.9 and 10.0 and SDC95%ind of 19.2 and 27.7 of subscales 1 and 2, respectively.

Conclusions

The Norwegian version of the PWQ demonstrated good validity and reliability and can be used to evaluate physical workload in patients with musculoskeletal disorders.
Predictive performance of lipid parameters in identifying undiagnosed diabetes and prediabetes: a cross-sectional study in eastern China
Authors: Zhou Yimin , Yang Guoping , Qu Chen , Chen Jiaping , Qian Yinan , Yuan Lei , Mao Tao , Xu Yan , Li Xiaoning , Zhen Shiqi , Liu Sijun
Published: March 2022

Background

Dyslipidaemia is a risk factor for abnormal blood glucose. However, studies on the predictive values of lipid markers in prediabetes and diabetes simultaneously are limited. This study aimed to assess the associations and predictive abilities of lipid indices and abnormal blood glucose.

Methods

A sample of 7667 participants without diabetes were enrolled in this cross-sectional study conducted in 2016, and all of them were classified as having normal glucose tolerance (NGT), prediabetes or diabetes. Blood glucose, blood pressure and lipid parameters (triglycerides, TG; total cholesterol, TC; high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, HDL-C; low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, LDL-C; non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, non-HDL-C; and triglyceride glucose index, TyG) were evaluated or calculated. Logistic regression models were used to analyse the association between lipids and abnormal blood glucose. The area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the discriminatory power of lipid parameters for detecting prediabetes or diabetes.

Results

After adjustment for potential confounding factors, the TyG was the strongest marker related to abnormal blood glucose compared to other lipid indices, with odds ratios of 2.111 for prediabetes and 5.423 for diabetes. For prediabetes, the AUCs of the TG, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, TC/HDL-C, TG/HDL-C, non-HDL-C and TyG indices were 0.605, 0.617, 0.481, 0.615, 0.603, 0.590, 0.626 and 0.660, respectively, and the cut-off points were 1.34, 4.59, 1.42, 2.69, 3.39, 1.00, 3.19 and 8.52, respectively. For diabetes, the AUCs of the TG, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, TC/HDL-C, TG/HDL-C, non-HDL-C and TyG indices were 0.712, 0.679, 0.440, 0.652, 0.686, 0.692, 0.705, and 0.827, respectively, and the cut-off points were 1.35, 4.68, 1.42, 2.61, 3.44, 0.98, 3.13 and 8.80, respectively.

Conclusions

The TyG, TG and non-HDL-C, especially TyG, are accessible biomarkers for screening individuals with undiagnosed diabetes.
Impact of proton pump inhibitor management committee’s multifaceted interventions on acid suppressant prescribing patterns in outpatient and emergency departments
Authors: Liu Lu , Yu Yongqi , Fan Qingze , Wu Zhigui , Li Xiuying , Luo Hongli
Published: March 2022

Background

A nationwide campaign for rational proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use launched in 2015 had a positive impact for hospitalized patients PPI use. But there were few studies focusing on the rational use of PPIs in outpatients. In 2018, the PPI management committee conducted a year-long intervention on the appropriate use of PPIs in outpatient and emergency departments, including clinical pharmacist interventions and stewardship interventions. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of the PPI management committee’s multifaceted interventions by comparing the real-world acid suppressant prescribing patterns for outpatients before (2017) and after intervention (2019) at a Chinese tertiary teaching hospital.

Methods

Prescriptions containing any acid suppressant in outpatient and emergency departments in baseline (2017) and postintervention (2019) periods were extracted from the hospital information system and the prescription automatic screening system. Acid suppressant prescribing patterns were evaluated based on primary diagnoses and patient demographics. The prescribed acid suppressants stratified using age groups (< 7, 7–17, 18–45, 46–65, 66–85 and > 85 years) were also examined.

Result

The utilization rate of acid suppressant in 2017 and 2019 was 2.5% (41,165/1,619,366) and 2.2% (49,550/2,236,471), respectively (P < 0.0001). 60,135 acid suppressant prescriptions were obtained in 2017 and 73,275 in 2019. The rate of acid suppressant prescriptions for the approved indications significantly increased from 62.6% (2017) to 65.4% (2019) (P < 0.0001). Prescriptions diagnosed as abnormal symptoms, signs and clinical manifestations, decreased in 2019 (13.0% vs. 16.5%, P < 0.0001). The most frequently prescribed PPIs differed between 2017 and 2019 (rabeprazole 2017 vs. esomeprazole 2019). Omeprazole was the most common PPI and cimetidine was the most common H2RA prescribed to patients aged < 18 years in 2017 and 2019. A total of CNY11.83 million was spent on acid suppressants in 2019, accounting for about 48.7% of total medication cost, increased by 11.3% from 2017 (37.4%).

Conclusion

The proportion of acid suppressant prescriptions for approved indications was enhanced after the PPI management committee’s multifaceted interventions, but there were still some problems in the selection of acid suppressants.
Local nebulization of 1α,25(OH)2D3 attenuates LPS-induced acute lung inflammation
Authors: Serré Jef , Mathyssen Carolien , Ajime Tom Tanjeko , Heigl Tobias , Verlinden Lieve , Maes Karen , Verstuyf Annemieke , Cataldo Didier , Vanoirbeek Jeroen , Vanaudenaerde Bart , Janssens Wim , Gayan-Ramirez Ghislaine
Published: March 2022

Background

Evidence supports a critical role of vitamin D status on exacerbation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, indicating the need to avoid vitamin D deficiency in these patients. However, oral vitamin D supplementation is limited by the potential risk for hypercalcemia. In this study, we investigated if local delivery of vitamin D to the lungs improves vitamin D-mediated anti-inflammatory action in response to acute inflammation without inducing hypercalcemia.

Methods

We studied vitamin D sufficient (VDS) or deficient (VDD) mice in whom 1α,25(OH)2D3 (0.2 μg/kg) or a vehicle followed by lipopolysaccharide (LPS 25 µg) were delivered to the lung as a micro-spray.

Results

Local 1α,25(OH)2D3 reduced LPS-induced inflammatory cells in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) in VDS (absolute number of cells: − 57% and neutrophils − 51% p < 0.01) and tended to diminish LPS-increased CXCL5 BAL levels in VDS (− 40%, p = 0.05) while it had no effect on CXCL1 and CXCL2 in BAL and mRNA in lung of VDS and VDD. It also significantly attenuated the increased IL-13 in BAL and lung, especially in VDD mice (− 41 and − 75%, respectively). mRNA expression of Claudin-18 in lung was significantly lower in VDS mice with local 1α,25(OH)2D3 while Claudin-3, -5 and -8 mRNA levels remained unchanged. Finally, in VDD mice only, LPS reduced lung mRNA expression of adhesion junction Zona-occludens-1, in addition to increasing uric acid and total protein in BAL, which both were prevented by local 1α,25(OH)2D3.

Conclusion

Under normal levels of vitamin D, local 1α,25(OH)2D3 nebulization into the lung efficiently reduced LPS induction of inflammatory cells in BAL and slightly attenuated LPS-increase in CXCL5. In case of severe vitamin D deficiency, although local 1α,25(OH)2D3 nebulization failed to significantly minimize cellular inflammation in BAL at this dose, it prevented epithelial barrier leakage and damage in lung. Additional research is needed to determine the potential long-term beneficial effects of local 1α,25(OH)2D3 nebulization on lung inflammation.
Left atrial contraction strain and controlled preload alterations, a study in healthy individuals
Authors: Gottfridsson Peter , A’Roch Roman , Lindqvist Per , Law Lucy , Myrberg Tomi , Hultin Magnus , A’Roch Alexander , Haney Michael
Published: March 2022

Background

In order to assess left atrial contractile function in disturbed circulatory conditions, it is necessary to have a clear understanding of how it behaves in a normal resting state with changes in loading conditions. However, currently the understanding of this relationship is incomplete. We hypothesize that in healthy individuals, left atrial contraction strain and its peak strain rate are increased or decreased by increasing or decreasing preload, respectively.

Methods

Controlled maneuvers used to change preload included continuous positive airway pressure by mask (CPAP 20 cmH2O) for preload decrease, and passive leg raise (15 degrees angle) for preload increase. Cardiac ultrasound 4-chamber views of the left atria and left ventricle were acquired at baseline and during maneuver. Acquired images were post processed and analyzed offline. Comparisons were made using paired t-test and means with 95% confidence interval.

Results

There were 38 participants, complete results were obtained from 23 in the CPAP maneuver and 27 in the passive leg raise maneuver. For the CPAP group, left atrial contraction strain was 11.6% (10.1 to 13.1) at baseline and 12.8% (11.0 to 14.6) during the maneuver (p = 0.16). Left atrial contraction peak strain rate was − 1.7 s− 1 (− 1.8 to − 1.5) at baseline and − 1.8 s− 1 (− 2.0 to − 1.6) during the maneuver (p = 0.29). For the passive leg raise-group, left atrial contraction strain was 10.1% (9.0 to 11.2) at baseline and 10.8% (9.4 to 12.3) during the maneuver (p = 0.28). Left atrial contraction peak strain rate was − 1.5 s− 1 (− 1.6 to − 1.4) at baseline and − 1.6 s− 1 (− 1.8 to − 1.5) during the maneuver (p = 0.29). Left atrial area, an indicator of preload, increased significantly during passive leg raise and decreased during CPAP.

Conclusion

In healthy individuals, left atrial contraction strain and its peak strain rate seem to be preload-independent.

Trial registration

The study was 2018-02-19 registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03436030).
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cell therapy for COVID-19 pneumonia: potential mechanisms, current clinical evidence, and future perspectives
Authors: Yao Weiqi , Shi Lei , Zhang Yun , Dong Haibo , Zhang Yu
Published: March 2022

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has spread into more than 200 countries and infected approximately 203 million people globally. COVID-19 is associated with high mortality and morbidity in some patients, and this disease still does not have effective treatments with reproducibly appreciable outcomes. One of the leading complications associated with COVID-19 is acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); this is an anti-viral host inflammatory response, and it is usually caused by a cytokine storm syndrome which may lead to multi-organ failure and death. Currently, COVID-19 patients are treated with approaches that mostly fall into two major categories: immunomodulators, which promote the body’s fight against viruses efficiently, and antivirals, which slow or stop viruses from multiplying. These treatments include a variety of novel therapies that are currently being tested in clinical trials, including serum, IL-6 antibody, and remdesivir; however, the outcomes of these therapies are not consistently appreciable and remain a subject of debate. Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), the multipotent stem cells that have previously been used to treat viral infections and various respiratory diseases such as ARDS exhibit immunomodulatory properties and can ameliorate tissue damage. Given that SARS-CoV-2 targets the immune system and causes tissue damage, it is presumable that MSCs are being explored to treat COVID-19 patients. This review summarizes the potential mechanisms of action of MSC therapy, progress of MSC, and its related products in clinical trials for COVID-19 therapy based on the outcomes of these clinical studies.
Oryzae pathotype of Magnaporthe oryzae can cause typical blast disease symptoms on both leaves and spikes of wheat under a growth room condition
Authors: Paul Sanjoy Kumar , Mahmud Nur Uddin , Gupta Dipali Rani , Rani Kanistha , Kang Houxiang , Wang Guo-Liang , Jankuloski Ljupcho , Islam Tofazzal
Published: March 2022

Blast diseases of rice and wheat are known to be caused by the specific pathotypes of Magnaporthe oryzae (syn. Pyricularia oryzae), M. oryzae Oryzae (MoO) and M. oryzae Triticum (MoT), respectively. Rice blast disease has been seen in Bangladesh from a very ancient time. However, Bangladesh’s first epidemic outbreak of wheat blast was recorded in 2016. This study aimed to investigate the cross-infection reactions of MoO and MoT in rice and wheat in a growth room condition. Artificial inoculation was done at vegetative and reproductive phases of both wheat and rice plants in a completely randomized design using virulent isolates of MoO and MoT. Artificial inoculation with MoO resulted in foliar symptoms with typical eye-shaped lesions as well as partially bleached or completely white head symptoms in both wheat and rice plants. On the other hand, MoT produced blast symptoms only on the leaves and spikes of wheat. Molecular analyses using PCR amplification (with Pot2, MoT3 and MoT6099 primers) and a recently developed rapid detection PCRD strip confirmed the presence of MoT and MoO pathotypes in the symptomatic plant samples. Our results demonstrated that MoO pathotype can infect the leaves and spikes of wheat but MoT is unable to infect rice plants under the same controlled environment in Bangladesh. This study has revealed the vulnerability of wheat to MoO pathotype and an urgent need to understand the molecular mechanism underlying host-specificity of the blast fungus M. oryzae. Our results also provided evidence for a potential wheat blast epidemic by MoO in many rice–wheat inter-cropping regions as climate change intensifies. A comprehensive study is needed to have a better understanding on the variability in virulence of MoO and MoT isolates in infecting wheat and rice under controlled environment by the inclusion of a large number of isolates and crop varieties/genotypes.
A comparative study: quality of life, self-competence, and self-liking among the caregivers of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and other non-ADHD children
Authors: Ahmed Mona Gamal Abd Elnaser , Felemban Ebaa Marwan , El-slamoni Marwa Abd El-fatah Ali
Published: March 2022

Background

The presence of attention deficit hyperactive disorder (ADHD) causes great impairment in social and professional activities as well as in the quality of life (QOL) and increases level of parental stress.

Objective

This study aimed to compare the QOL, self-competence, and self-liking among the caregivers of ADHD and non-ADHD children.

Method

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 216 caregivers. They were divided into two groups: caregivers of children with ADHD and caregivers of children without ADHD.

Setting

This study was conducted in the Elsinbellawin City at Dakahlia Governorate in Egypt. Tools used were socio-demographic data sheet and WHO Quality of Life Scale-Brief (WHOQOL-Brief) and self-liking/self-competence scale.

Results

Our results showed that all QOL dimensions of the caregivers of ADHD children were markedly deteriorated, if compared to those of non-ADHD children, and two thirds of caregivers of ADHD children suffered from poor level quality of life (QOL). Caregivers of non-ADHD children had fair level of self-competence but a good level of self-liking. Caregiver of ADHD children who had no work or history of medical diseases has a fair level of QOL and self-competence but a good level of self-liking.

Conclusions

We found that caregivers of ADHD children have fair levels of QOL, self-liking, and self-competence, if compared to those of non-ADHD children. There are statistically significant correlations between QOL, self-competence, and self-liking among both caregivers of both non-ADHD children and ADHD children.
Ultrafast (600 ps) α-ray scintillators
Authors: Lin Richeng , Zhu Yanming , Chen Liang , Zheng Wei , Xu Mengxuan , Ruan Jinlu , Li Renfu , Li Titao , Lin Zhuogeng , Cheng Lu , Ding Ying , Huang Feng , Ouyang Xiaoping
Published: March 2022

Large-size scintillators with high efficiency and ultrafast radiation fluorescence have shown more potential in the applications to ionizing radiation detection of medical diagnosis, nuclear control and high-energy physics. Currently, although traditional scintillators have made tremendous progress in scintillation efficiency, there are still challenges left in fluorescence lifetime. Faced with that problem, we adopted 2-inch ZnO as the substrate and doped gallium as activator to realize an ultrafast fluorescence excited by α-ray, of which the decay time is only 600 ps that is the shortest scintillation decay time reported so far. The results show that the shallow donor related with gallium not only effectively suppresses band-edge self-absorption, but makes ultrafast radiation possible, which gets gallium-doped ZnO as a potential scintillator for high-quality ultrafast dynamic imaging proved.
A case of completed course multifocal osteonecrosis (MFON) during pregnancy due to primary antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: El Shintenawy Aya , Khallaf Soha , El Shentenawy Esraa , El Deeb Ali
Published: March 2022

Osteonecrosis of both shoulders and hips is a rare presentation of primary antiphospholipid syndrome. A female patient aged 23 years old with no systemic diseases has her only complaint which was pain and limitations in both hips followed by both shoulders. Careful detailed history and clinical examination is essential for reaching optimum diagnosis thus good management. MRI for hip and shoulder joints is essential for the diagnosis of osteonecrosis. Exclusion of all causes of secondary osteonecrosis by history, clinical examination, and laboratory studies should be done before diagnosing the rare causes of osteonecrosis or the primary type. Pregnancy is an exacerbation factor for primary osteonecrosis. We recommend that the female patient with primary osteonecrosis should receive prophylactic antithrombotic during pregnancy. In conclusion, exclusion of all secondary causes of osteonecrosis is mandatory to reach an accurate diagnosis.
A simulation-based evaluation of BRT systems in over-crowded travel corridors: a case study of Cairo, Egypt
Authors: Mohamed M. , Elmitiny N. , Talaat H.
Published: March 2022

This paper examines the performance of bus rapid transit (BRT) systems in over-crowded travel corridors. A case study of King Faisal Street in Greater Cairo Region GCR, Egypt, was adopted. A simulation model was developed using PTV VISSIM simulation platform for the study area. A data collection effort was exerted to collect operational traffic data required for model development/calibration. As BRT systems share the roadway with other modes of travel (vehicles, pedestrians, etc.), handling conflicts is a major challenge that faces operations, especially in over-crowded travel corridors. Four BRT scenarios were developed with different conflict treatment methodologies (vehicle/BRT conflicts at U-turns and vehicle/passenger conflicts near BRT stations), varying from signal control at each BRT station (scenario 1) to complete grade separation (scenario 4). Each of the developed scenarios was thoroughly assessed based on disaggregated segment travel times, aggregated corridor travel times, capacity to accommodate travel demand, and corridor level of service. A wide range of results was reported for the impact of the proposed systems on corridor traffic operations varying from 80% increase in overall travel time (scenario 1) to 18% reduction (scenario 4). Such results highlight the potential of BRT systems in improving traffic operations in over-crowded traffic corridors and the vital role of conflict treatments in achieving successful operations.
Development over Time in Cognitive Function among European 55-69-Year-Olds from 2006 to 2015, and Differences of Region, Gender, and Education
Authors: Zhou Ying
Published: March 2022

With populations rapidly aging, the development over time in the cognitive function among the elderly approaching or reaching retirement is important for successful aging at work and planning pension policies. However, few studies in this field focus on this age group. This study characterizes time trends in cognitive function among 55-69-year-old Europeans from 2006 to 2015, and compares these trends by region, gender, and education. This study analyzes 40,689 subjects in Waves 2, 4, 5 and 6 of the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) covering ten countries. Cognitive function was measured by Recall and Verbal Fluency. Educational levels were classified by quartiles. A Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) model was used to explore the association between cognitive function and development over time after controlling for confounders. Further stratification analysis using GEE models was conducted, stratified by region, gender and education. Cognitive function improved significantly in southern and central Europe over the observed timeframe, whereas it did not in northern Europe. Those with relative low levels of formal education displayed the most rapid increases in cognitive function in southern and central Europe. Among those with lower education in southern Europe, males’ cognitive function improved more quickly than females’. The improvement of cognitive function at ages 55-69 in southern and central Europe may contribute to continuing engagement with productive activities in old age. Educational interventions for people with lower levels of education may be most effective in achieving such engagement. This paper extends the literature on the development over time in the cognitive function among the elderly close to retirement age in Europe by analysing southern, central and northern Europe, as well as differences by region, gender and education. The results may provide evidence for planning pension policies and educational interventions.
Multilingualism, Music and Gendered Roles in Unorthodox
Authors: Corrius Montse , Espasa Eva
Published: March 2022

Through a multidisciplinary approach that combines translation studies and gender studies, this paper analyzes multilingualism in the series Unorthodox (Netflix 2020). We examine the presence and functions of identities and gendered roles in the series. Unorthodox tells the story of Esther Saphiro (Esty), a young Jewish woman who flees from her country and leaves her ultra-Orthodox community, with very strict rules and traditional gender roles. We explore the connections between the gendered roles of the main characters, their cultural or social contexts, and, especially, the role of third languages in the series (Yiddish, German, Russian, and Hebrew). As it is a German-American production, we consider English as its main language (L1) because the story is directed to mainstream Western audiences. The role of third languages (L3) is very relevant in depicting the intercultural encounters in the series. Yiddish is the most prominent L3 followed by German and a little Russian and Hebrew. The most recurrent functions of L3-instances are signaling otherness and character portrayal, where Yiddish and German are used. Hebrew is used for ceremonies, prayers and songs, and it portrays Jewish characters in their traditional contexts. We pay special attention to songs, as rich L3 instances, where there is interaction of L3 function, gender significance, translation strategies, and narrative roles. The translation of songs shows the relative importance of conveying the word or the music. Finally, the identification of third languages is not marked in the subtitling of either songs or dialogues; therefore, language diversity can be hindered for audiences not discriminating between the various languages.
E-commerce Regulations in an Emerging Era: The Role of the WTO in Resolving the Complexities of Electronic Trade
Authors:   School of Law, Zhengzhou University, People’s Republic of China, Khan Asif
Published: March 2022

The World Trade Organization has responded slowly to issues pertaining to harmonizing the digital economy among its member states. Because of the complex, multidimensional electronic commerce environment, there are diverse interests and conflicts among states on internet regulation. However, agreements at World Trade Organization forums act as intermediary responsibilities in forming a safe, sure, and reliable guiding structure for electronic commerce. Thus, agreements are a significant way to facilitate the advancement of the digital economy. Currently, there is no all-inclusive program for change at the World Trade Organization. This paper focuses on overhauling the organization to be in line and able to handle challenging contemporary trade treaties and manage issues relating to the digital economy. Keywords: Digital economy, Dispute settlement, Electronic commerce, GATS, Liberalization, WTO law reform, Agreements
Depth-based sparse bundle adjustment
Authors: Zhu Zhaokun , Wang Fang , Ma Yan , Han Xiaolei , Liu Haibo
Published: March 2022

It is demonstrated in this paper that due to error model inconsistency, a certain degree of accuracy loss would be incurred to the estimated parameters when the traditional bundle adjustment method is directly applied to the scenario where a fraction of observations is implicitly error free (e.g., the reference image points in commonly used least squares matching refinement). To this end, a depth-based object point model and corresponding depth-based sparse bundle adjustment method are proposed in this paper, in which the position of an object point is represented by its 1D depth relative to its reference image. A corresponding projection model is derived, the sparse block structures of normal equations are studied depending on whether there are shared image parameters to be optimized or not, and corresponding sparse solutions of the normal equations and parameter covariance matrices are derived. Compared with the traditional sparse bundle adjustment method, simulated experiments demonstrate that our method matches the error model of the target scenario, and thus can avoid further accuracy loss. Moreover, both simulated and real data experiments demonstrate that our method can effectively improve computational efficiency.
Enhancing critical resolution of a ghost imaging system by using a vortex beam
Authors: Tan Wei , Bai Yanfeng , Huang Xianwei , Jiang Teng , Nan Suqin , Fu Qin , Zou Xuanpengfan , Fu Xiquan
Published: March 2022

In an imaging system, resolution and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) are two important indexes to characterize imaging quality. Ghost imaging is a novel imaging method whose imaging resolution and SNR are affected by the speckle size. In this paper, the relation between speckle size and resolution as well as that between speckle size and SNR in the GI system is analyzed in detail. It is shown that the critical resolution, resolvable minimum-separation between two adjacent objects, is approximately equal to the speckle size (speckle diameter). There exists an optimum SNR when the speckle size is larger than the object size. Based on our conclusion, we propose a scheme to enhance the critical resolution of the GI system by using a vortex beam, and the enhancement ability under different topological charges is clearly presented, which can be quantized by a simple formula.
Pico-strain resolution fiber-optic sensor with white-light interferometry
Authors: Liu Shuting , Liu Qingwen , Zhao Shuangxiang , He Zuyuan
Published: March 2022

The fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor is well known for simple fabrication, absolute measurement, inherent multiplexing capability, etc. To date, most FBG sensors that use a broadband light source for demodulation can only achieve resolution at the µɛ level. In this Letter, we propose a white-light-driven self-reference sensing system with FBGs, using a Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) and a white light source, to realize multiplexed high-resolution vibration sensing with a very simple system configuration. A strain resolution of

35

p

ε

/

Hz

at 1 kHz is demonstrated, which is several orders of magnitude better than the current FBG sensor systems with white light sources. The performance of the sensing system is analyzed, and multiplexing capability is also experimentally evaluated; there is no observable cross talk.
Active tuning of dispersive waves in Kerr soliton combs
Authors: Okawachi Yoshitomo , Kim Bok Young , Zhao Yun , Jang Jae K. , Ji Xingchen , Lipson Michal , Gaeta Alexander L.
Published: March 2022

Kerr soliton combs operate in the anomalous group-velocity dispersion regime through the excitation of dissipative solitons. The generated bandwidth is largely dependent on the cavity dispersion, with higher-order dispersion contributing to dispersive-wave (DW) generation that allows for power enhancement of the comb lines at the wings of the spectrum. However, the spectral position of the DW is highly sensitive to the overall cavity dispersion, and the inevitable dimension variations that occur during the fabrication process result in deviations in the DW emission wavelength. Here, we demonstrate active tuning of the DW wavelength, enabling post-fabrication spectral shaping of the soliton spectrum. We control the DW position by introducing a wavelength-controllable avoided mode crossing through actively tuning the resonances of a silicon nitride coupled microresonator via integrated heaters. We demonstrate DW tuning over 113 nm with a spectral power that can exceed the peak soliton spectral power. In addition, our modeling reveals buildup and enhancement of the DW in the auxiliary resonator, indicating that the mode hybridization arising from the strong coupling between the two resonators is critical for DW formation.
Analysis of localized cAMP perturbations within a tissue reveal the effects of a local, dynamic gap junction state on ERK signaling
Authors: Fonseca João Pedro , Aslankoohi Elham , Ng Andrew H. , Chevalier Michael
Published: March 2022

Beyond natural stimuli such as growth factors and stresses, the ability to experimentally modulate at will the levels or activity of specific intracellular signaling molecule(s) in specified cells within a tissue can be a powerful tool for uncovering new regulation and tissue behaviors. Here we perturb the levels of cAMP within specific cells of an epithelial monolayer to probe the time-dynamic behavior of cell-cell communication protocols implemented by the cAMP/PKA pathway and its coupling to the ERK pathway. The time-dependent ERK responses we observe in the perturbed cells for spatially uniform cAMP perturbations (all cells) can be very different from those due to spatially localized perturbations (a few cells). Through a combination of pharmacological and genetic perturbations, signal analysis, and computational modeling, we infer how intracellular regulation and regulated cell-cell coupling each impact the intracellular ERK response in single cells. Our approach reveals how a dynamic gap junction state helps sculpt the intracellular ERK response over time in locally perturbed cells.
The voltage-gated Ca2+ channel subunit α2δ-4 regulates locomotor behavior and sensorimotor gating in mice
Authors: Klomp Annette , Omichi Ryotaro , Iwasa Yoichiro , Smith Richard J. , Usachev Yuriy M. , Russo Andrew F. , Narayanan Nandakumar S. , Lee Amy
Published: March 2022

Voltage-gated Ca2+ channels are critical for the development and mature function of the nervous system. Variants in the CACNA2D4 gene encoding the α2δ-4 auxiliary subunit of these channels are associated with neuropsychiatric and neurodevelopmental disorders. α2δ-4 is prominently expressed in the retina and is crucial for vision, but extra-retinal functions of α2δ-4 have not been investigated. Here, we sought to fill this gap by analyzing the behavioral phenotypes of α2δ-4 knockout (KO) mice. α2δ-4 KO mice (both males and females) exhibited significant impairments in prepulse inhibition that were unlikely to result from the modestly elevated auditory brainstem response thresholds. Whereas α2δ-4 KO mice of both sexes were hyperactive in various assays, only females showed impaired motor coordination in the rotarod assay. α2δ-4 KO mice exhibited anxiolytic and anti-depressive behaviors in the elevated plus maze and tail suspension tests, respectively. Our results reveal an unexpected role for α2δ-4 in sensorimotor gating and motor function and identify α2δ-4 KO mice as a novel model for studying the pathophysiology associated with CACNA2D4 variants.
Developing welfare parameters for African elephants (Loxodonta africana) in fenced reserves in South Africa
Authors: Garai Marion E. , Roos Tenisha , Eggeling Tamara , Ganswindt André , Pretorius Yolanda , Henley Michelle
Published: March 2022

South Africa has many fenced reserves harbouring small to medium sized populations of African elephant (Loxodonta africana), most of which have been translocated. Elephants on fenced reserves may be exposed to various management interventions and practices (translocation, hunting, darting, high tourism impact, contraception programs, disruption due to infrastructure maintenance, etc.). These factors may impact the welfare of elephants. Poor elephant welfare may have serious consequences such as increased inter- and intra-species aggression that could result in fatalities. This is the first study to attempt to define behavioural and physiological welfare parameters for free-ranging elephants on small to medium sized reserves. The eight study sites incorporated reserves with different social structure combinations, elephant life-histories, reserve sizes, habitat, management, and tourism intensity. Data collection consisted of behavioural observations (10-minute videos) as well as faecal samples. By incorporating both behavioural and physiological (faecal glucocorticoid metabolite (fGCM) concentration) parameters, we aimed to investigate whether the two parameters showed similar trends. Five behavioural categories were identified (Arousal, Assessing, Ambivalent, Ambivalent/ Body care, and Frustrated behaviour), with various detailed behaviours demonstrated by the elephants that may indicate the influence of anthropogenic disturbance and possibly impact on animal welfare. The study showed significant differences between the selected detailed behaviours, behavioural categories and fGCM concentrations of elephants across the eight reserves. History seemed to be a decisive factor, as reserves with predominantly ex-captive elephants showed higher frequencies of certain behaviours as well as higher fGCM concentrations. Age, sex, reserve size and season were also found to contribute to our defined welfare indices and fGCM concentrations. This indicates that behavioural parameters, indicative of certain behavioural states, are valuable indicators of welfare, as supported by the physiological response of the elephants. The results also highlight the importance of taking multiple specified behaviours from a category into consideration when evaluating the welfare of elephants, to account for individual variation.