bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reading Comprehension Level and Academic Performance of College Students in Their Mathematics Course
Authors: Galang Ruby T. , Arrozal Jocelyn Y. , Regala Angelo , Manlutac Anne Canlyn 
Published: November 2023

Reading is regarded as a vital skill in attaining proficiency and widening knowledge in different subjects. The research aimed to establish the relationship of reading comprehension to academic performance in Mathematics. The respondents were the freshmen students in specified Math in the Modern World course. This study employed descriptive quantitative design. A researcher-made instrument which underwent experts’ validation and reliability test was used in determining the comprehension level in reading of the respondents. The results specified that positive correlation of reading comprehension and academic performance exists. Based on the results, there exists a highly significant difference between the reading comprehension level of the participants and their academic performance in their math courses. Moreover, with the generated value of .298, it can be inferred that that there is a positive relationship between the variables. This means if one variable increases the other variable moderately increases.
Visual Learning-Style-Based Activities in Improving the Reading Compre-hension Skills of Second-Year English Major Students
Authors: Gallardo Jodilly , Dela Cruz Nicole , Opinga Gloede , Albino Femia S. 
Published: November 2023

This research paper aimed to investigate the effects of visual learning style-based activities on reading comprehension skills among 18 second-year English major students who are currently enrolled at the President Ramon Magsaysay State University-Castillejos Campus. The matching-only pretest-post-test research design, as a type of experimental design, was used to investigate the improvement of the respondents' reading comprehension skills after the integration of the intervention. The results show that the student’s reading comprehension level was mostly “Independent” or 38.89% (7 out of 18) during the administration of the pre-test and increased by 66.67% (12 out of 18) during the administration of the post-test. The mean score of the respondents shows that they are in the “Instructional” level (19.83 or 66.11%) on the pre-test result which was improved during the post-test result in the “Independent” level (24.17 or 80.57%) respectively. The pre-test and post-test results on the reading comprehension of the respondents before and after the application of the visual learning style-based intervention show a significant correlation between the mean score (t=4.32, p=2.11) which is <0.05 alpha level, thus, the rejection of the null-hypothesis. Moreover, instructors may also allow their respective students to develop their reading comprehension skills beyond the given activities by supplying learning activities tailored to their needs, interests, and learning styles.
School Leaders’ Ethnographic Reflections: Lessons for Bridging Through the Post-Pandemic Era
Authors: Caño Sheena Aguilar , Lamela Renee , Alcantara Jessica M. 
Published: November 2023

In the context of the evolving educational landscape, school leaders hold a pivotal position in ensuring quality education in the post-pandemic. To explore this phenomenon, the researcher employed ethnographic method and thematic analysis to interpret the reflections of secondary school leaders in Masbate province. Key themes and cultural patterns emerged from the data analysis. Along with curriculum and learning, the key theme is the implementation of diverse learning modalities and strategies to address the challenges brought by the pandemic. Health protocols and guidelines were observed. Adaptability within the education sector aligns with the values of Filipino. Further, leadership and governance, such as leadership practices that encompass modeling behavior, investing in teacher potential, and supporting teachers’ initiatives and collaboration, are the cultural patterns. Moreover, continuous improvement highlights the significance of ongoing projects, particularly those who struggle with literacy and numeracy. Passion for crafting projects, data analysis, and technology in forming project designs and enhancing students’ performance is also needed. The strong commitment came out as a cultural pattern. Lastly, with managing resources, prioritize resources for the teaching and learning process, provide opportunities for professional development, allocate financial resources to priority areas, and manage human resources equitably. Flexibility in adapting to changing circumstances while emphasizing accountability and transparency.
Hence, a resilient-collaborative leadership model was crafted to support the existing situation of education in the post-pandemic. However, further studies are encouraged about this phenomenon.
Rich Nation, Liberal International: Ideology and Action in Japanese Foreign Aid Policy
Authors: Atkinson Joel 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Characterizations of foreign aid donors neglect the overarching importance of ideas in determining policy. This article explores Japan’s ideological criteria for foreign aid decision-making, differentiated both between goals and the instruments to achieve them, as well as between ideas in the specific foreground and the general background. Japan continues to operate with a recognizable postwar ideology, which synthesized aspects of an earlier militarist and economic nationalism paradigm with liberal internationalism. In recent years, the perception of a growing threat from China and other changes have catalyzed a shift in Japan’s ODA toward greater securitization and liberal value-orientation; however, aid policy still remains situated within this “Rich Nation, Liberal International” paradigm.
Regional Abyssal Vorticity Balance in the Northeast South China Sea: External and Internal Dynamics of Abyssal Circulation
Authors: Zheng Hua , Zhu Xiao-Hua , Wang Min , Chen Juntian , Nan Feng , Yu Fei 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Abyssal vorticity balance in the northeast South China Sea was assessed for over a year based on observations from 28 current- and pressure-recording inverted echo sounders distributed west of the Luzon Strait. The regional first-order balance was dominated by the planetary vorticity flux and bottom pressure torque, which reflect the external and internal dynamics of abyssal circulation. Vertical motion considerably contributed to the planetary vorticity flux, whereas the contribution of horizontal motion was negligible. Positive and negative planetary vorticity fluxes dominate the areas along the eastern and western boundaries, indicating upward and downward vertical transport, respectively. The opposite planetary vorticity fluxes in the different areas were accompanied by different current patterns; regional anticyclonic and cyclonic characteristics appeared near the western and eastern boundaries, respectively, owing to the deep topography as the abyssal current followed the boundary. The planetary vorticity flux near the eastern boundary was substantial in spring and autumn; in contrast, along the western boundary it was enhanced only in spring. Deep eddies played important roles in planetary vorticity flux and regional vorticity balance. The results of this study reveal the formation dynamics of abyssal circulation in the South China Sea as well as its spatiotemporal distributions, providing a more detailed description of abyssal circulation.

Significance Statement
The deep South China Sea (SCS) is a nearly enclosed basin characterized by cyclonic abyssal circulation. Based on the observations from 28 current- and pressure-recording inverted echo sounders distributed west of the Luzon Strait, the vorticity balance in the deep SCS was clarified. The planetary vorticity flux and bottom pressure torque maintain a first-order balance of vorticity, which acts as the external and internal dynamics of the abyssal circulation. The study describes the temporal variability and spatial distribution of vorticity terms in the deep ocean west of the Luzon Strait, which may contribute to a more detailed understanding of abyssal circulation formation and its evolution.
Acceptance of electronic medical records and associated factor among physicians working in University of Gondar comprehensive specialized hospital: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kasaye Mulugeta Desalegn , Mengestie Nebyu Demeke , Beyene Sara , Kebede Natnael , Ngusie Habtamu Setegn , Kalayou Mulugeta Hayelom 
Published: November 2023

Objective Electronic Medical Records (EMRs) are digitalized medical record systems that collect, store, and display patient data. It is individual patient clinical information electronically gathered and made instantly available to all physicians in the healthcare chain, assisting in the delivery of coherent and consistent care. However, the acceptance of the electronic medical record status of physicians in Ethiopia is limitedly known due to knowledge, attitude, and computer skill gaps. This study aims to assess the acceptance of electronic medical records and associated factors among physicians working in Ethiopia. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among physicians working in Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. A total of 205 physicians were included. Data were collected through a self-administered structured questionnaire. Descriptive and Logistic regression were conducted. Result A one hundred ninety-eight participants returned the questionnaire from the total yielding a response rate of 96.6%. The proportion of those who have good acceptance for EMR was 72.2% and about 48.5%, 78.3%, and 59.6%, were sufficient computer skills, Good knowledge, and a favorable attitude toward EMR respectively. Age ≤ 30 years (AOR =  0.13 (0.02, 0.57), working experience AOR = 0.15 (0.04, 0.54), working department AOR = 0.09 (0.01, 0.90), good computer skills AOR = 8.42 (6.45, 16.02), Good knowledge AOR = 5.21 (1.22, 12.28), and favorable attitude AOR = 15.24 (12.06, 25.94) were significantly associated towards EMR acceptance. Conclusion Generally, in this study, physicians’ acceptance of electronic medical records was good. Age, year of experience, working department, good computer skills, good knowledge, and favorable attitude were significantly associated with physicians’ acceptance of the electronic medical record. Improving computer skills, enhancing positive attitudes, and increasing the knowledge of the health care professionals are vital interventions to enhance and improve the acceptance of EMR system in the study area
Safety evaluations of alternansucrase enzyme expressed in Escherichia coli shows no adverse effects invivo and invitro
Authors: Rathi Ankit , Chandan Harshada , Vira Chaitali , Pore Mukul P 
Published: November 2023

Background Alternansucrase is a glucansucrase enzyme that mainly functions in synthesis of glucan-like polysaccharides and can be used for production of novel oligosaccharides and polysaccharides having low glycemic index and prebiotics properties which makes them ideal candidates as dietary fibers and food. From a regulatory perspective, it is necessary to prove the safety of alternansucrase before it can be used in any application as it is a novel enzyme and has not been historically used in food processing. Objectives Alternansucrase obtained from Escherichia coli was subjected to toxicological tests to determine its safety for use in various industrial applications. Design Toxicity studies were conducted at acute oral and repeated sub-chronic (14 days and 90 days) levels in rats following the OECD guidelines. The genotoxicity studies were conducted using the bacterial reverse mutation test as well as in vitro mammalian cell micronucleus test as per the OECD guidelines. Results Alternansucrase did not induce any clinical abnormalities or mortality in rats at the dose level of 2000 mg/kg of body weight in the acute oral toxicity test. A 90-day sub chronic repeated dose oral toxicity study with alternansucrase at and up to dose of 1000 mg TOS/kg of body weight did not show any treatment-related significant toxicological effects on body weight, food consumption, organ weights, hematological and clinical chemistry, or histopathology parameters. Alternansucrase was found to be non-mutagenic up to 5000 µg TOS/plate concentration in the bacterial reverse mutation test. Alternansucrase was determined to be non-clastogenic and non-aneugenic up to the test concentration of 1250 µg TOS/mL during the in vitro mammalian cell micronucleus test. Conclusion The lethal dose (LD50) based on this study is greater than 2000 mg/kg body weight, which falls into the category 5 criteria of Globally Harmonized System (GHS). No-Observed-Adverse-Effect-Level (NOAEL) was concluded to be greater than 1000 mg TOS/kg per day. The studies taken together substantiate the safety of alternansucrase enzyme in various food and associated industries. The present study paves a future for safe use of alternansucrase in varied industrial applications.
Leaf phenotypic variation and its response to environmental factors in natural populations of Eucommia ulmoides
Authors: Gong Huimin , Yang Min , Wang Chaochun , Tian Chunlian 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Eucommia ulmoides leaves have high medicinal and economic value as a dual-purpose substance for medicine and food. Employing leaves from 13 natural populations of Eucommia ulmoides as research objects, this study reveals the variation patterns of intra-specific and inter-specific trait variation and explores the response of leaf characteristics to geographical and climatic changes, aiming to provide a scientific basis for the efficient utilization of leaf resources and the breeding of superior varieties.

Results
Descriptive statistical analysis and nested analysis of variance showed significant differences in 11 leaf traits of Eucommia ulmoides inter-populations and intra-populations, with an average coefficient of variation of 17.45%. The coefficient of variation for average leaf phenotypic traits is 20.77%, and the leaf phenotypic variation is mainly from the variation intra-populations. Principal component analysis reveals that the cumulative contribution rate of the top three principal components which mainly contributed to the phenotypic variation of Eucommia ulmoides leaves reached 74.98%, which could be sorted into size traits (34.57%), color traits (25.82%) and shape traits (14.58%). In addition, correlation analysis expresses there is a specific co-variation pattern among leaf traits, with a strong connection between shape, size, and color traits. Geographic and climatic distances are significantly correlated, and mantel test and correlation analysis indicate that leaf traits of Eucommia ulmoides are mainly influenced by altitude. With the increase of altitude, the leaves become smaller. Partial correlation analysis shows that after controlling climate factors, the correlation between some characters and geographical factors disappears significantly. Temperature and precipitation have a great influence on the variation of leaf phenotypic traits, and the larger the leaves are in areas with high temperature and heavy rainfall.

Conclusions
These findings contribute to a further understanding of the leaf morphological characteristics of Eucommia ulmoides and the extent to which the environment influences leaf trait variation. They can provide a scientific basis for the protection and application of Eucommia ulmoides leaf resources in the future.
The effects of walking aids on shoulder joint kinematics in older persons: an initial study
Authors: Yang Jiemeng , Mo Zhongjun , Zhang Yanyu , Ji Run , Tao Chunjing , Fan Yubo 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
Many older persons with degenerative physical functions use walking aids to improve their ambulation ability. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of walking aids with different configurations on shoulder joint motion in older persons.

Methods
The 3D motion capture system VICON was applied to collect data on gait parameters and shoulder motion characteristics of 6 older persons walking either independently or with the assistance of a footed walking frame and a wheeled walking frame. The different effects of walking aids on gait parameters and the shoulder joint motion of older individuals were quantitatively analyzed.

Results
The gait parameters of the older individuals changed significantly when they used walking frames to assist walking. Compared to independent walking, the range of motion of the shoulder joint was reduced by 79.92% in flexion when walking with a wheeled walking frame. Meanwhile, the range of motion in flexion, extension, and external rotation increased by 76.04%, 85.55%, and 110.99%, respectively, when walking with a footed walking frame.

Conclusion
The motion characteristics of shoulder joints in older persons were significantly affected by using different walking aids. These changes in shoulder joint motion characteristics will lead to potential diseases related to the shoulder musculoskeletal system. These findings are beneficial to determine a walking aid for older people.
Epstein-Barr virus reactivation is not causative for post-COVID-19-syndrome in individuals with asymptomatic or mild SARS-CoV-2 disease course
Authors: Hoeggerl Alexandra Domnica , Nunhofer Verena , Lauth Wanda , Badstuber Natalie , Held Nina , Zimmermann Georg , Grabmer Christoph , Weidner Lisa , Jungbauer Christof , Lindlbauer Nadja , Neureiter Heidrun , Ortner Tuulia , Flamm Maria , Osterbrink Jürgen , Rohde Eva , Laner-Plamberger Sandra 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Purpose
Post-COVID-19-Syndrome (PCS) frequently occurs after an infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, the understanding of causative mechanisms is still limited. Aim of this study was to determine the PCS rate among SARS-CoV-2 seropositive blood donors as representatives of supposedly healthy adults, who had experienced an asymptomatic or mild COVID-19 disease course, and to examine whether Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is reactivated in individuals reporting PCS.

Methods
The PCS rate was determined using questionnaires that included questions about infection and persistent symptoms. Pre-pandemic blood samples and samples collected at regular, pre-defined times after a SARS-CoV-2 infection were analysed for neopterin, a marker for antiviral immune responses, by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Additionally, we determined the rate of SARS-CoV-2 anti-N total antibodies using an electrochemiluminescence immunoassay (ECLIA). Furthermore, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) to detect EBV DNA and ECLIA screening for EBV viral capsid-antigen (VCA) IgM, IgG and EBV nuclear antigen 1 (EBNA) IgG were performed.

Results
Our data reveal that 18% of all infections result in PCS, with symptoms lasting for up to one year. In individuals reporting PCS, no elevated levels of neopterin were detected, indicating no persisting pro-inflammatory, antiviral immune response. SARS-CoV-2 antibody levels were declining in all participants in comparable manner over time, pointing to a successful virus clearance. In individuals with PCS, no EBV DNA could be detected. Furthermore, no differences in EBV specific antibody levels could be shown in PCS groups compared to non-PCS groups.

Conclusion
Our data suggest that PCS in per se healthy, immunocompetent adults cannot be ascribed to a reactivation of EBV.
ESCO2 promotes hypopharyngeal carcinoma progression in a STAT1-dependent manner
Authors: Hu Juan , Yan Jing , Chen Yijie , Li Xiaohui , Yang Liu , Di Haiyu , Zhang Huihui , Shi Yewen , Zhao Junjie , Shi Yanxia , Xu Yinglong , Ren Xiaoyong , Wang Zhenghui 
Published: November 2023

Abstract
Background
The establishment of sister chromatid cohesion N-acetyltransferase 2 (ESCO2) is involved in the development of multiple malignancies. However, its role in hypopharyngeal carcinoma (HPC) progression remains uncharacterized.

Methods
This study employed bioinformatics to determine the ESCO2 expression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) and normal tissues. In vitro cell proliferation, migration, apoptosis, and/or cell cycle distribution assays were used to determine the function of ESCO2 and its relationship with STAT1. Xenograft models were established in nude mice to determine ESCO2 in HPC growth in vivo. Co-immunoprecipitation/mass spectrometry (Co-IP/MS) was conducted to identify the potential ESCO2 binding partners.

Results
We found that ESCO2 expression was elevated in HNSC tissues, and ESCO2 depletion suppressed tumor cell migration in vitro and inhibited tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. Co-IP/MS and immunoblotting assays revealed the interaction between ESCO2 and STAT1 in HPC cells. STAT1-overexpression compromised ESCO2-mediated suppressive effects on HPC cell proliferation, viability, and migration.

Conclusions
These findings suggest that ESCO2 is crucial in promoting HPC malignant progression through the STAT1 pathway and provides novel therapeutic targets for HPC treatment.
Influence of bone density on stability in TBW
Authors: Bischoff Fabian R. , Tille Eric , Beyer Franziska , Bota Olimpiu , Biewener Achim , Nowotny Jörg 
Published: November 2023

AbstractOsteoporosis is a common disease that leads to a reduction in bone density and increases the risk of fractures. Stable surgical treatment is particularly important for these fractures. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of bone density in the area of ​​the proximal ulna on the failure of the fixation technique of K-wires in tension band wiring (TBW). We provided 10 ulna specimens with TBW and biomechanically examined the pull-out strength of bi- and tricortical K-wires. Bone density measurement was performed using qCT. In the paired t-test, the tricortical group showed a significantly higher pull-out strength in relation to bone density than the bicortical group (p = 0.001). Furthermore, the Pearson correlation showed a high influence of bone density on pull-out strength in the tricortical group (r = 0.544), but without significance (p = 0.100).Our work shows that bone density has a direct effect on the pull-out strength of K-wires in TBW. TBW should therefore be used as osteosynthesis technique, especially in young patients with non-osteoporotic bones. In the case of osteoporotic fractures, alternative procedures should be preferred.