bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Psychological Precursors of Entrepreneurial Intentions among Higher Education Students in Ghana
Authors: Mahama Inuusah , Eshun Peter , Amos Patricia Mawusi , Antwi Theresah , Amoako Bernard Mensah , Eggley Veronica Esinam 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background: Entrepreneurship is seen as the solution to graduate unemployment in Ghana, and students are required to take a course on entrepreneurship that teaches them how to work for themselves. Therefore, this study investigated the precursors of entrepreneurial intentions among higher education students.
Methods: Using the analytical cross-sectional survey design, 250 respondents were recruited from public universities to participate in the survey. Respondents were required to respond to three constructs (entrepreneurial scaffolding, psychological capital, and entrepreneurial intentions). The data analyses were performed using multivariate regression.
Results: The study’s findings showed that entrepreneurial scaffolding and psychological capital were significant predictors of entrepreneurial intentions.
Conclusion: The researchers concluded that students’ convictions about succeeding or failing and plans to engage in entrepreneurial behaviours depended on proper entrepreneurial guidance and a positive mind-set. As a result, higher education institutions and career counsellors in Ghana should be strengthened and include practical guides to entrepreneurial training, thereby reducing graduate unemployment in Ghana.
Evaluation of the effects of non-ablative radiofrequency on vaginal dilation in a trans woman after sexual reassignment: a case report
Authors: Ramalho Ana Maria Luna , Sartori Marair Ferreira Gracio , Takano Claudia Cristina , Leite Mila Torii Correia 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Introduction:
Sex reassignment surgeries (CRS) are surgical interventions that can be performed aiming at the adequacy of the anatomical sex to the gender that the subject recognizes. These patients can be offered CRS, such as neovaginoplasty, which can present clinical complications, such as stenosis, atrophy, loss of vaginal elasticity and dyspareunia. The conservative approach to treating these disorders is vaginal dilation. Radiofrequency (RF) is a technique indicated for these vaginal tissue changes.
Objectives:
to describe the non-ablative radiofrequency (RF)-associated vaginal dilatation process regarding its functional outcome in a transgender woman after vaginoplasty.
Methods:
this is a 31-year-old intersex transgender woman, with skin reassignment surgery and other vaginal correction surgeries. The current complaint was a short vaginal canal and dyspareunia. The patency of the vaginal canal was 2.5 cm wide and 7 cm deep. Intervention: The radiofrequency protocol was performed in the extension of the vaginal cavity. Then, the standard protocol of vaginal dilation was performed. The program consisted of 6 radiofrequency sessions lasting 5 minutes at a temperature of 39 degrees, with an interval of 4 weeks.
Results:
There was progression of vaginal dilation during therapy, with a change from 2.5 to 3.5 cm in diameter (40%) and from 7 to 12 cm (71.4%) in length. As for sexual satisfaction on the EVA-S scale, there was an improvement from 2.5 (dissatisfied) to 7.5 (satisfied).
Conclusion:
This study suggests that radiofrequency followed by dilation was effective in enlarging the vaginal canal, reducing pain and increasing comfort during penetration.
Critical Decisions at the Early Stage of Start-ups: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Gonzalez Marcos , Terzidis Orestis , Lütz Phillip , Heblich Benedict 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

This systematic literature review (SLR) identifies and ranks the decisions that can be considered critical for entrepreneurs at the early stage of the start-up process. The sample (N = 45) derived from the SLR contained primary publications from the A + and A journals of the VHB-Journal ranking. Deductive and inductive approaches were used to define the critical decision domains. Then, the relevance of the domains was evaluated using the frequency of the selected studies. A key implication for founders is to understand that not all decisions that could be taken in the early stage may be critical for success. Most critical seems to invest time and effort in the, what we label the internal business and human core (Product Definition and Core People) and the external business and human core (Market segment selection and Partnerships). This study depicts an integrated view of the fragmented field of critical decisions in the context of early-stage start-ups by using a SLR. Thus, it creates value for theory-building and practitioners in entrepreneurship.
The cause of intrauterine death in vasa previa is not always bleeding: a case report
Authors: Li Pin , Pan Xiuyu , Yue Chaomin , Zheng Zheng , Liu Huishu 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Antepartum and intra-partum hemorrhage from vasa previa is an important cause of intrauterine fetal demise ( IUFD). Here, we present two cases with type I vasa previa in which unprotected vessels apparently were compressed by the engaged fetal head, resulting in fetal hemodynamic collapse. Thus we suggest that vasa previa with a velamentous cord insertion should be considered for earlier termination of the pregnancy to avoid the risk of non-hemorrhagic adverse fetal outcomes.
Inherited thrombophilia is not associated with an increased risk of liver fibrosis
Authors: Ezcurra Iranzu , Puente Ángela , Cuadrado Antonio , Tamayo Ibai , Iruzubieta Paula , Arias-Loste María Teresa , González Francisco José , Pellón Raúl , Sánchez Sara , Pozo Juan Crespo del , Acebo Mercedes , López-Hoyos Marcos , Pérez Rocío , Cuesta Amalia , Antón Ángela , Echavarría Víctor , Fábrega Emilio , Crespo Javier , Fortea Jose Ignacio 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Background and aims: preliminary evidence suggest that inherited hypercoagulable disorders can lead to an increased risk of significant liver fibrosis. We aimed to investigate the prevalence of significant fibrosis in patients with inherited thrombophilia, assessed by using liver stiffness (LS), and to compare this prevalence to that found in a large population-based cohort from the same region.
Methods: this was a single-center, cross-sectional study. A complete laboratory analysis for liver disease, LS by transient elastography and abdominal ultrasound were performed in patients with inherited thrombophilia diagnosed between May 2013-February 2017. These patients were propensity score matched (ratio 1:4) with a population-based cohort from the same region (PREVHEP-ETHON study; NCT02749864; N=5988).
Results: 241 patients with inherited thrombophilia were included. Eight patients (3.3%) had significant fibrosis (LS ≥8 kPa). All of them had risk factors for liver disease and met diagnostic criteria for different liver diseases. After matching 221 patients with thrombophilia with 884 patients of the PREVHEP-ETHON cohort, the prevalence of significant fibrosis was similar between both cohorts (1.8% vs 3.6%, p=0.488). Multivariate analysis showed that age and liver disease risk factors, but not belonging to the thrombophilia cohort, were associated with the presence of significant fibrosis. The magnitude of the increased risk of significant fibrosis in patients with risk factors for liver disease was also similar in both cohorts.
Conclusions: our findings do not support that inherited thrombophilia increases the risk of developing significant liver fibrosis independently of the presence of liver-related causes of fibrosis.
WITHDRAWN: Entrepreneurship and Nigerian Economic Development Nexus in the Digitized Era
Authors: Onyejiaku Chinyere C. , Ngong Chi Aloysius , Onwumere Josaphat Uchechukwu Joe 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose This study examines the long-term association between entrepreneurship and Nigerian economic development in the digitized era from 1991-2020. Research results on the association between entrepreneurship and economic development are still debatable and conflicting. Some unveil positive effects, and some show negative effects and others indicate non-significant effects. Hence, research is essential to fill the gap.
Design/Methodology/ApproachThe fully modified, dynamic and conical co-integration ordinary least squares regression are used. Gross domestic product growth rate measures economic development. Self-employment and new business density measure entrepreneurship.
Findings The results show a long-term association between entrepreneurship and economic development. The regression results unveil a positive association between self-employment and gross domestic product growth rate.
Research limitations/ImplicationsThe government should refurbish existing entrepreneurial policies with digital innovations to enhance entrepreneurship and economic development which promote self-employment. The government should integrate entrepreneurship education into the education system at the secondary level where young minds would be moulded towards self-employment. The government and entrepreneurs should improve on the mapping out of strategic business locations in urban and rural zones where youths could under take self-employment activities.
Originality/Value The results affirm a positive link between self-employment and gross domestic product.
Dynamics of Value-Added Tax collection performance and its determinant in Ethiopia: Evidence from Benishangul-Gumuz Region Revenue office
Authors: Debala Gemachis Biru 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the dynamics Value-Added-Tax collection performance and its related determinants in Ethiopian with special reference of Benishangul-Gumuz region state Revenue offices.
Methodology: The study employed an employed a mixed explanatory cross-sectional survey research design with primary and secondary data. The sample size of this study was 281 out of which 260 VAT tax payers determined by Yamane’s formula and 21 director and supervisor revenue office staff member was included in the study by using proportional and purposive sample selection method.
Finding: The result of binary-logistic regression analysis confirmed that tax payer’s awareness, tax evasion, tax law enforcement, and tax staff knowledge are significant drivers influencing the performance of Value Added Tax revenue collection.
Research Limitation/Implication: The overall empirical tests were for this study were conducted only on 260 taxpayers and 21 tax official during the period of the study. To generalize the result made on this study, the future researcher should use more evidence.
Practical Implication: This research might help the revenue office tax official in investigating prime determinants of value added tax revenue collection performance and by increasing the amount of tax revenue collected from the tax payers.
Originality/value: This paper adds value to existing literature dynamics of Value-Added Tax collection performance. Specifically, it considers the impact of tax payer’s awareness, tax evasion, tax law enforcement, and tax staff knowledge on Value-Added Tax collection.
Assessment of Water Quality Data Using Functional Data Analysis for Klang River Basin, Malaysia
Authors: Ali Nur Fatihah Mohd , Mohamed Ibrahim , Yunus Rossita Mohamad , Othman Faridah 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Rivers are subject to different sources of pollution. Continuous monitoring of river water quality provides an important basis for the authorities to take appropriate action. Water quality monitoring stations located within the river basin can provide necessary water quality data to establish any changes observed in the river water quality. It is important to highlight lower water quality status at specific monitoring stations so that immediate action can be taken. Similarly, it is an utmost important to ensure water quality at monitoring stations close to water catchment areas always at an acceptable level. This study aims to identify such monitoring stations using descriptive and functional data analysis. The approaches were applied to water quality data collected by the Department of Environment Malaysia at 16 stations in the Klang River basin from January 2013 to December 2016. Specifically, the functional boxplot was applied to identify the monitoring station with outlying properties. We identified many occasions when water quality deteriorated or improved largely due to the increase of COD, BOD and TSS. In addition, three stations close to two main catchment areas and forest reserve showed consistently good water quality. These indicate that the surrounding areas of the stations at the upstream of the rivers are still protected from uncontrolled pollution sources. The study is critical for the authority to understand the overall pattern of water quality data at each station so that action can be planned locally to preserve good river water quality.
Biodegradation of PET plastic by a marine strain Rhodococcus pyridinivorans P23 with a membrane anchoring PET esterase in a biofilm model
Authors: Guo Wenbin , Shi Zhengguang , Yu Xue , Shao Zong-Ze , Duan Jingjing 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Evidence for microbial biofilm formation on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has previously been reported, but little is known about the PET biodegradation process and molecular mechanism by biofilm especially in marine environments. Here, we isolate a PET-degrading bacterium, Rhodococcus pyridinovorans P23, from deep sea sediment with the ability to grow using PET as sole carbon and energy source. We identify a novel membrane anchoring PET degrading enzyme dubbed PET esterase through activity tracking, and find that in addition to depolymerizing PET, it also hydrolyzes MHET into TPA under acid conditions. We prove that it is a low and constitutive transcribed transmembrane protein displaying on the cell surface ensuring no loss into the ocean. Based on these findings, we propose a PET biodegradation model with microbial biofilm formation in marine environment. The crucial roles of biofilm is retaining degradation product MHET and TPA to create an acidic microenvironment on the PET plastic surface distinguishing itself from the alkaline sea water, which promotes the MHET hydrolysis by PET esterase to produce TPA for utilization. Furthermore, we also investigate the microbial groups possessing PET esterase coupled with TPA degradation pathway mainly in phyla Proteobacteria and Actinobacteriota.
Spine dynamics of dentate gyrus parvalbumin-positive interneurons are defined by network activity and experience
Authors: Bartos Marlene , Kaufhold Dorthe , Fernández Maria de Angel Ocaña , Cazala Aurore , Yuan Mei , Kulik Akos , Cholvin Thibault , Steup Stephanie , Sauer Jonas-Frederic , Elgueta Claudio , Strüber Michael , Casas Eduardo Maristany de las 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Parvalbumin-positive interneurons (PVIs) in the dentate gyrus (DG) possess dendritic spines, but their functional properties and structural dynamics remain uncharted. Using in vitro 2-Photon imaging, we show that glutamatergic synapses at PVI dendritic spines evoke AMPA and NMDA receptor-mediated calcium signals with high spatial compartmentalization defined by their neck length. Ex vivo morphological analysis shows that DREADD-mediated in vivo PVI excitation increases spine density and length, whereas recruitment of glutamatergic inputs causes spine head enlargement. These spine dynamics could be reproduced in mice experiencing novel contexts. By using dual-eGRASP-mediated input labeling we provide evidence that experience-driven PVI spine growth and input density boosts synaptic targeting of PVI spines over shafts, a mechanism supporting functional isolation of postsynaptic signals from parent dendrites. We propose that experience-related PVI spine dynamics echo excitation levels of the DG network allowing PVIs to dynamically adjust their microcircuit integration in relation to the networks’ computational demands.
Innovation-driven growth in a multi-country world
Authors: Gross Till , Klein Paul 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
We develop a multi-country model of endogenous growth through innovation with cross-country spillovers. A key feature of our model is that some ideas are globally applicable, while others are of local use only. The main implications of our model are the following. On a balanced growth path (i) all countries integrated into the world economy have a common endogenous rate of productivity growth; (ii) a fully integrated country’s size does not affect its productivity, but for partially integrated countries, productivity is increasing in country size; (iii) other characteristics of a country, such as its research effort, determine the level of productivity; (iv) at a global level, there is a scale effect so that productivity growth increases in the size of the world’s population, but this effect is concave and not linear. We also study transitional dynamics, and find that our framework may help us understand the apparent fall in research productivity in currently rich countries in recent decades.
JEL Classification: E62, F43, H21, O3
Dexmedetomidine for Electroencephalogram in patients with behavioural disorders: a comparative study between intranasal and intravenous administration
Authors: Poletto Elisa , Amigoni Angela , Sartori Stefano , Dalt Liviana Da , Frigo Anna Chiara , Mazza Alessandro 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
Study Objective: The aim of the project was to compare the efficacy and safety of intranasal and intravenous dexmedetomidine (DEX) in procedural sedation for electroencephalogram (EEG) in patients with behavioural disorders.
Design: observational monocentric comparative study
Setting: Tertiary care centre Emergency Department
Patients: all consecutive patients < 18 years old affected by behavioural disorders, who needed sedation for EEG recording. From 2018 to 2020 a group of children received intravenous administration of DEX, the following year a second group of children received intranasal administration of the same drug. Target of sedation was level 2, according to the Paediatric Sedation State Scale (PSSS) in both groups. Heart rate (HR), pulse oxygen saturation and blood pressure (BP) were registered. EEG recording quality and caregivers’ satisfaction were collected.
Results: Twenty-four patients were sedated with intravenous and other twenty-four with intranasal DEX. Sedation success rate was 97.9%. Intranasal administration showed longer onset (p <0.0001), but shorter offset (p 0.0145); 45.8% patients reported adverse effects. Bradycardia occurred in 35.4% of the overall population, cases of hypotension were still reported in the intravenous group. All adverse effects were self-resolved without any intervention. EEG recording quality and level of satisfaction among caregivers and EEG technicians were high.
Conclusions: Considering our data dexmedetomidine is an effective and safe drug in patients with behavioural disorders. Intranasal administration could be useful as it is less invasive and with shorter offset.
Clinical Trial registration: ID NCT 03799783; date registered: 10/01/2019
Multiplexed PLGA scaffolds with nitric oxide-releasing zinc oxide and melatonin-modulated extracellular vesicles for severe chronic kidney disease
Authors: Han* Dong Keun , Rhim Won-Kyu , Woo Jiwon , Kim Jun Yong , Lee Eun Hye , Cha Seung-Gyu , Kim Da-Seul , Baek Seung-Woon , Park Chun Gwon , Kim Bum Soo , Kwon Tae Gyun 
Published: April 2023

Abstract
With prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in worldwide, the strategies to recover renal function via tissue regeneration could provide alternatives to kidney replacement therapies. However, due to relatively low reproducibility of renal basal cells and limited bioactivities of implanted biomaterials along with the high probability of substance-inducible inflammation and immunogenicity, kidney tissue regeneration could be challenging. To exclude various side effects from cell transplantations, in this study, we have designed cell-free hybrid PMEZ scaffolds incorporating essential bioactive components, such as ricinoleic acid grafted Mg(OH)2 (M), extracellular matrix (E), and alpha lipoic acid-conjugated ZnO (Z) based on biodegradable porous PLGA (P) platform. Consecutively, for functional improvements, melatonin-modulated extracellular vesicles (mEVs), derived from the human umbilical cord MSCs in chemically defined media without serum impurities, were also attached onto PMEZ scaffolds to construct the multiplexed PMEZ/mEV scaffold. The continuous nitric oxide-releasing property of modified ZnO and remarkably upregulated regenerative functionalities of mEVs showed significantly enhanced kidney regenerative activities. Based on these, the structural and functional restoration has been practically achieved in 5/6 nephrectomy mouse models that mimicked severe human CKD. Our innovative implantations aim at kidney tissue recovery with functional restoration and could be a promising therapeutic alternative for CKD treatment.
The Impact of Household Wealth Gap on Individual's Mental Health
Authors: Zhang Rui , Feng Dawei , Xia Jiahui , Wang Yao 
Published: April 2023

Abstract

BackgroundImproving the individual’s mental health is important for sustainable economic and social development. Although some studies found that household wealth gap may affect individuals’ mental health, few studies have clarified the causal relationship between household wealth gap between mental health in China. This study examines the impact of the household wealth gap on individuals' mental health using data from the 2012–2018 China Family Panel Survey.MethodsThis study first used the two-way fixed effects model to investigate the impact of household wealth gap on individuals’ mental health. Considering the endogeneity, the two-stage least square and propensity score matching were employed to examine the impact of household wealth inequality on individuals' mental health.ResultsThe results show that the household wealth gap has negative impact on individuals’ mental health. A series of robustness tests support this conclusion. The results of heterogeneity analysis show that the household wealth gap has a greater impact on the mental health of an individual with lower education levels and in rural areas. The results of the mechanism analysis suggest that the household wealth gap may affect individuals' mental health by influencing the individual’s health insurance commitment and neighborhood relations. In addition, the household wealth gap not only significantly negatively affects individuals' mental health in the short term but also in the medium- to long-term.ConclusionThese findings suggest that the government should take various measures to narrow the wealth inequality between families, which may effectively improve the mental health of residents.